JP6544469B2 - Communication device - Google Patents

Description

  The technology disclosed by the present specification relates to a mobile terminal and a communication device for performing communication of target data.

  Patent Literatures 1 and 2 disclose techniques for two wireless communication devices to perform wireless communication. In Patent Documents 1 and 2, two communication apparatuses execute communication of wireless setting in accordance with near field communication (that is, wireless communication according to NFC (abbreviation of Near Field Communication) method). The above wireless setting is a setting for executing wireless communication according to a communication method (for example, IEEE 802.11a, 802.11 b) different from the NFC method. As a result, the two communication devices can execute wireless communication according to the wireless setting.

JP 2007-166538 A JP, 2011-146991, A

Wi-Fi Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Technical Specification Version 1.1, Wi-Fi Alliance, 2010

  In the present specification, a communication device provides technology for appropriately performing communication with a portable terminal.

The technology disclosed by the present specification is a computer program for a first communication device. The first communication device is a first type interface for performing communication with a second communication device, and a second type interface for performing communication with the second communication device, the first communication device comprising: A communication speed of communication using two types of interfaces is higher than that of communication using the first type of interfaces. The computer program causes the computer mounted on the first communication device to perform the following processing, ie, reception processing for receiving specific information from the second communication device using the first type interface. The first communication device is currently using the second type interface, and the second communication device via an access point different from the first communication device and the second communication device. A determination process of determining whether communication of object data is executable using the specific information; and the first communication device is currently communicating with the second communication device via the access point. When it is determined that the communication of the target data can not be performed, the state of the first communication device is set to the previous state using the second type interface without passing through the access point. After performing a specific process for changing the communication of the target data with the second communication device to an executable communicable state, the second type interface is used, without passing through the access point. Execute communication of the target data with a second communication device, and determine that the first communication device can currently execute communication of the target data with the second communication device via the access point Communication execution processing for executing communication of the target data with the second communication apparatus via the access point using the second type interface without executing the specific processing, And may be performed.
Also, another technique disclosed by the present specification is a communication device. The communication device includes a first type of interface, a second type of interface, and a control unit. The first type of interface is an interface for performing communication with the mobile terminal. The second type of interface is an interface for performing communication with the mobile terminal. The communication speed of communication using the second type interface is faster than the communication speed of communication using the first type interface. The control unit includes a reception unit, a determination unit, and a communication execution unit. The receiving unit receives specific information from the portable terminal using the first type of interface. The determination unit determines whether the communication apparatus is currently in a communicable state in which communication of target data with the portable terminal can be performed using the second type of interface, using the specific information. When it is determined that the communication apparatus is not currently in the communicable state, the communication execution unit executes a specific process for changing the state of the communication apparatus to the communicable state, and then uses the second type interface. , Communicate the target data with the portable terminal. When it is determined that the communication apparatus is currently in the communicable state, the communication execution unit executes communication of the target data with the mobile terminal using the second type interface without executing the specific process.

  The communication device changes the state of the communication device to the communicable state by executing the specific process when the current state of the communication device is not capable of communicating using the second type of interface. As a result, the communication apparatus can execute communication of target data with the portable terminal at a relatively high communication speed using the second type of interface. On the other hand, when the current state of the communication apparatus is in a communicable state using the second type of interface, the communication apparatus does not execute the specific process but relatively uses the second type of interface. Communication of target data with the portable terminal can be performed at a high communication speed. According to this configuration, the communication device can determine whether or not to execute the specific process according to the current state of the communication device, and thus can appropriately execute communication with the portable terminal.

  Whether the communication apparatus is currently in the communicable state by determining whether the portable terminal currently belongs to the specific network to which the communication apparatus currently belongs using the specific information You may judge whether or not. The specific network may be a network for the communication device to perform communication using the second type of interface. According to this configuration, when both the communication apparatus and the portable terminal currently belong to a specific network, the specific process does not need to be performed. As a result, the communication apparatus can execute communication of target data with the portable terminal at a relatively high communication speed without executing the specific process.

  The second type of interface may be an interface for the communication device to perform a specific wireless communication. The specific wireless communication may be wireless communication performed by the communication device and the portable terminal without passing through different access points between the communication device and the portable terminal. The identification process may include a process for the communication device and the portable terminal to execute a specific wireless communication using the second type of interface. When it is determined that the current state of the communication apparatus is not in the communicable state, the communication execution unit executes the identification process and then uses the second type interface to specify the wireless of the portable terminal and the target data Communication may be performed. According to this configuration, the communication apparatus can execute communication of target data with the portable terminal without going through the access point.

  The communication apparatus has a plurality of states including a master station state functioning as a master station of the wireless network, a slave station state functioning as a slave station of the wireless network, and a device state different from the master station state and the slave station state. It may be selectively operable in any of these states. The communication device may be capable of performing specific wireless communication via the wireless network by operating in the wireless network in one of the master station state and the slave station state. In the first case where the communication execution unit determines that the communication apparatus is not currently in the communicable state, and the communication apparatus currently belongs to the first wireless network for performing the specific wireless communication. The first wireless setting for the portable terminal to belong to the first wireless network may be transmitted to the portable terminal using the first type of interface. The communication execution unit determines that the communication apparatus is not currently in the communicable state, and the communication apparatus performs specific wireless communication in a second case where the communication apparatus does not currently belong to the first wireless network. The second wireless network to be executed may be a specific process for newly establishing a second wireless network to which the communication device and the portable terminal should belong. According to this configuration, when the current state of the communication device is not in the communicable state, the communication device performs the specific process to carry out portable communication via the first wireless network to which the communication device currently belongs. Communication of the target data with the terminal can be appropriately performed. In addition, when the communication device does not currently belong to the wireless network, the communication device can appropriately execute communication of target data with the portable terminal via the newly established second wireless network.

  In the first case, the communication execution unit may execute a specific process of transmitting the first wireless setting to the portable terminal when the communication device is operating as a master station state in the first wireless network. . In the first case, the communication execution unit may not transmit the first wireless setting to the portable terminal in the specific case where the communication device is operating in the first wireless network as the slave station state. According to this configuration, when the communication device operates in the master station state in the first wireless network, the communication device transmits the portable terminal via the first wireless network to which the communication device currently belongs. And communication of target data can be properly performed. On the other hand, the communication device can suppress the mobile terminal from participating in the first wireless network when the communication device is operating in the first wireless network as the slave station state.

  In the specific case, the communication execution unit does not execute the specific process, and uses the first type of interface to indicate that the communication device does not execute the communication of the target data with the mobile terminal using the first type of interface. It may be sent to According to this configuration, the mobile terminal can acquire information indicating that the communication device does not execute communication of the target data with the mobile terminal. Thereby, the user of the portable terminal can know that the communication device does not execute communication of target data with the portable terminal.

  In a specific case, the communication execution unit may execute a specific process for newly constructing a second wireless network after leaving the communication apparatus from the first wireless network. According to this configuration, the communication device can leave the first wireless network in which the communication device is operating in the slave station state, and can newly construct a second wireless network. Thereby, the communication apparatus can appropriately execute communication of target data with the portable terminal via the newly established second wireless network.

  In the second case, the communication execution unit does not execute the selective determination process in which the communication device selectively determines which of the master station state and the slave station state to operate in the second wireless network. The communication apparatus may execute a specific process including a process of determining to operate as a master station state in the second wireless network. According to this configuration, the communication apparatus can newly establish a second wireless network that operates as a master station state. Thereby, the communication apparatus can appropriately execute communication of target data with the portable terminal by operating as a master station state in the newly constructed second wireless network.

  In the second case, the communication execution unit executes a process of selectively determining whether the communication apparatus should operate in the master station state or the slave station state in the second wireless network. Specific processing including may be executed. According to this configuration, the communication apparatus can newly construct a second wireless network operating in either the master station state or the slave station state. Thereby, the communication apparatus can appropriately execute communication of target data with the portable terminal by operating as the master station state or the slave station state in the newly constructed second wireless network.

  The control unit may further include a mode setting unit. The mode setting unit, in accordance with the user's instruction, sets the mode of the communication device, the first mode in which the communication device can belong to a wireless network for executing a specific wireless communication, and the wireless communication of a specific communication device. It may be set to one of the second modes which can not belong to the wireless network to be executed. The communication execution unit changes the mode of the communication apparatus from the second mode to the first mode in the second case and when the communication apparatus is set to the second mode, A specific process may be executed to newly build two wireless networks. According to this configuration, when the communication device is to execute the specific wireless communication and the communication device is set to the second mode in which the specific wireless communication can not be performed, The specific wireless communication can be changed to the first mode that can be performed.

  The communication device is an external device different from the portable terminal when the mode of the communication device is the first mode, and the wireless communication can be performed with the external device belonging to the second wireless network. Good. The communication execution unit changes the mode of the communication apparatus from the second mode to the first mode, and executes specific wireless communication of object data with the portable terminal via the constructed second wireless network After that, if the external device currently belongs to the second wireless network, the mode of the communication device may not be changed from the first mode to the second mode. The communication execution unit changes the mode of the communication apparatus from the second mode to the first mode, and executes specific wireless communication of object data with the portable terminal via the constructed second wireless network After that, the mode of the communication device may be changed from the first mode to the second mode if the external device does not currently belong to the second wireless network. According to this configuration, when the external device belongs to the second wireless network after communication of object data between the communication device and the portable terminal, the communication device leaves the second wireless network. Can be suppressed. On the other hand, when the external device does not belong to the second wireless network after the communication of the target data between the communication device and the portable terminal, the mode of the communication device changes from the first mode to the second mode, It can be changed appropriately.

  The second type of interface may be an interface for the communication device to perform wireless communication of target data with a portable terminal. The communication execution unit determines that the current state of the communication device is not in the communicable state, and belongs to a specific wireless network for the communication device to perform wireless communication using the second type interface. In the case where the mobile terminal is present, a specific process of transmitting a specific wireless setting for belonging to a specific wireless network to the mobile terminal may be executed using a first type of interface. According to this configuration, the portable terminal can participate in a specific wireless network to which the communication device currently belongs. As a result, the communication device can appropriately execute communication of the target data with the portable terminal via the specific wireless network.

  The communication device uses the second type of interface, and performs the specific wireless communication performed by the communication device and the portable terminal without passing through different access points from the communication device and the portable terminal, and through the access point Other wireless communications may be feasible. The communication execution unit is a specific wireless setting for a portable terminal to belong to a specific network when the communication device belongs to a specific network for performing a specific wireless communication, and the identification includes a password A specific process of transmitting the wireless setting of may be executed. The communication execution unit may execute a specific process of transmitting a specific wireless setting not including a password, when the communication apparatus belongs to a specific network for performing another wireless communication. According to this configuration, the communication device does not have to transmit the password necessary to belong to the specific network to which the access point belongs, to the portable terminal.

  The second type of interface may be an interface for the communication device to perform wireless communication of target data with a portable terminal. The specific information may include a third wireless setting for the communication device to belong to a third wireless network to which the portable terminal currently belongs. When it is determined that the current state of the communication apparatus is not a communicable state, the communication execution unit executes a specific process for the communication apparatus to belong to the third wireless network using the third wireless setting. You may According to this configuration, the communication device can belong to the third wireless network to which the portable terminal currently belongs. As a result, the communication device can appropriately execute communication of target data with the portable terminal via the third wireless network.

  The particular network to which the communication device currently belongs may be a particular wireless network. The specific information may include an identifier of a third wireless network currently being followed by the mobile terminal. The communication device currently belongs to the determination unit by determining whether the identifier of the third wireless network included in the specific information and the specific identifier for identifying the specific wireless network match. It may be determined whether the mobile terminal currently belongs to a particular wireless network. According to this configuration, by comparing the wireless network identifiers, it is possible to appropriately determine whether the mobile terminal currently belongs to a specific network to which the communication device currently belongs.

  The determination unit may determine that the portable terminal does not currently belong to the specific network when the specific information does not include the wireless network identifier. According to this configuration, it can be appropriately determined that the mobile terminal does not currently belong to a specific network.

  The determination unit executes the communication using the second type interface when the specific information includes the terminal identification information for identifying the portable terminal, thereby the terminal identification information via the specific network. The terminal identification information is acquired through the specific network by determining that the portable terminal currently belongs to the specific network and performing communication using the second type interface when If not, it may be determined that the mobile terminal does not currently belong to the particular network. According to this configuration, it can be appropriately determined whether the mobile terminal currently belongs to a specific network.

  The determination unit executes the communication using the second type interface when the specific information includes the IP address of the portable terminal, thereby making the inquiry for which the IP address is specified as the destination, the specific network If the response from the portable terminal is received in response to the inquiry, it is determined that communication is possible, and if the response from the portable terminal is not received in response to the inquiry, the communication is not possible. It may be determined that According to this configuration, it can be appropriately determined whether the state of the communication device is in the communicable state.

  A control method, a computer program, and a computer readable recording medium storing the computer program for realizing the communication device described above are also novel and useful. Also, a communication system including the above-described communication device and a portable terminal is novel and useful.

1 shows the configuration of a communication system. The flowchart of the communication processing which the multifunctional device of 1st Example performs is shown. The sequence diagram for demonstrating the process which each apparatus in a 1st situation performs is shown. The sequence diagram for demonstrating the process which each apparatus in a 2nd situation performs is shown. The sequence diagram for demonstrating the process which each apparatus in a 3rd situation performs is shown. The sequence diagram for demonstrating the process which each apparatus in a 4th situation performs is shown. FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram for illustrating processing executed by each device in a fifth situation. The flowchart of the communication processing which the multifunctional device of 2nd Example performs is shown. FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram for illustrating processing executed by each device in a sixth situation. FIG. 16 shows a sequence diagram for illustrating processing executed by each device in a seventh situation. The flowchart of the communication processing which the multifunctional device of 3rd Example performs is shown. FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram for illustrating processing executed by each device in an eighth situation. FIG. 16 shows a sequence diagram for illustrating processing executed by each device in a ninth situation. The flowchart of the communication processing which the multifunctional device of 4th Example performs is shown. FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram for illustrating processing executed by each device in a tenth situation. FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram for illustrating processing executed by each device in an eleventh situation. The flowchart of the communication processing which the multifunctional device of 5th Example performs is shown. FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram for illustrating processing executed by each device in a twelfth situation. The flowchart of the communication processing which the multifunctional device of 6th Example performs is shown. The flowchart of the communication processing which the multifunctional device of 7th Example performs is shown. FIG. 16 shows a sequence diagram for illustrating processing executed by each device in the seventh embodiment.

(First embodiment)
(Configuration of communication system)
As shown in FIG. 1, the communication system 2 is called a multi-function device (hereinafter referred to as "MFP" (abbreviated to "Multi-Function Peripheral") 10, a portable terminal 50, and an access point (hereinafter referred to as "AP"). And 6) and a PC 8). The MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 can execute near field communication. The short distance wireless communication is wireless communication according to the NFC method. In this embodiment, wireless communication in accordance with the NFC system is performed based on the international standard of ISO / IEC 21481 or 18092.

  Further, the MFP 10 can execute wireless communication in accordance with a WiFi Direct method described later. Below, WiFi Direct is called "WFD." In WFD, wireless communication is based on the 802.11 standard of IEEE (The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.) and standards conforming thereto (for example, 802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, etc.). To be executed. The NFC method and the WFD method (hereinafter referred to as “WFD method”) are different in the wireless communication method (that is, the standard of wireless communication). Further, the communication speed of wireless communication according to the WFD scheme is faster than the communication speed of wireless communication according to the NFC scheme.

  For example, the MFP 10 can construct a WFD network by establishing a connection with the portable terminal 50 (hereinafter referred to as “WFD connection”) in accordance with the WFD method. Similarly, the MFP 10 can establish a WFD network by establishing a WFD connection with the PC 8.

  The PC 8, the MFP 10, and the portable terminal 50 can further execute wireless communication in accordance with a normal Wi-Fi (for example, IEEE 802.11) system different from the WFD system. Generally speaking, wireless communication in accordance with normal Wi-Fi is wireless communication in which the AP 6 is used, and wireless communication in accordance with the WFD system is wireless communication in which the AP 6 is not used. For example, the MFP 10 can belong to a normal Wi-Fi network by establishing a connection with the AP 6 (hereinafter referred to as a “normal Wi-Fi connection”) in accordance with the normal Wi-Fi. The MFP 10 can perform wireless communication with other devices (for example, the PC 8 and the portable terminal 50) that normally belong to the Wi-Fi network via the AP 6. The NFC method and the normal Wi-Fi method (hereinafter referred to as “the normal Wi-Fi method”) differ in the wireless communication method (that is, the standard of wireless communication). Also, the communication speed of normal Wi-Fi is faster than the communication speed of NFC.

(WFD)
WFD is a standard formulated by the Wi-Fi Alliance. WFD is described in "Wi-Fi Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Technical Specification Version 1.1" created by the Wi-Fi Alliance.

  As described above, the PC 8, the MFP 10, and the portable terminal 50 can execute wireless communication in accordance with the WFD method. Hereinafter, a device capable of executing wireless communication in accordance with the WFD scheme will be referred to as a “WFD compatible device”. In the WFD standard, three states of Group Owner state (hereinafter referred to as "G / O state"), client state, and device state are defined as the states of a WFD compatible device. The WFD-enabled device is selectively operable in one of the three states described above.

  A WFD network is configured by the device in the G / O state and the device in the client state. In the WFD network, there may be only one device in G / O state, but there may be one or more devices in client state. Devices in the G / O state manage devices in one or more client states. Specifically, the device in the G / O state generates a management list in which identification information (ie, MAC address) of each of the devices in one or more client states is described. The device in the G / O state adds identification information of the device to the management list when the device in the client state newly belongs to the WFD network, and when the device in the client state leaves the WFD network, the identification information of the device Remove from management list.

  Devices in the G / O state are connected to the target data (for example, the network layer of the OSI reference model) with devices registered in the management list, that is, devices in the client state (ie, devices belonging to the WFD network). Wireless communication of data (print data, scan data, etc.) including information can be performed. However, devices in the G / O state are not required to register data for the unregistered device with the WFD network (for example, data that does not include network layer information (Probe) with the unregistered device not registered in the management list. Wireless communication of physical layer data (such as Request signal and Probe Response signal) can be performed, but wireless communication of the above target data can not be performed, for example, the MFP 10 in the G / O state can be Although print data can be received wirelessly from the registered portable terminal 50 (that is, the portable terminal 50 in the client state), print data can not be received wirelessly from an apparatus not registered in the management list.

  Also, a device in the G / O state can relay wireless communication of target data (print data, scan data, etc.) between a plurality of devices in the client state. For example, when the portable terminal 50 in the client state should wirelessly transmit print data to another printer in the client state, the portable terminal 50 wirelessly transmits the print data to the MFP 10 in the G / O state. In this case, the MFP 10 wirelessly receives the print data from the portable terminal 50 and wirelessly transmits the print data to the other printer described above. That is, the device in the G / O state can usually execute the function of the AP of the Wi-Fi network.

  Note that WFD compatible devices not belonging to the WFD network (that is, devices not registered in the management list) are devices in the device state. A device in the device state can execute wireless communication of data (physical layer data such as a probe request signal, probe response signal, etc.) for belonging to the WFD network, but target data (print data, etc.) via the WFD network. It is impossible to execute wireless communication of scan data etc.).

  In the following, a device that can not execute wireless communication in accordance with the WFD scheme, but can execute wireless communication in accordance with normal Wi-Fi, will be referred to as “a WFD non-compliant device”. The “non-WFD-compliant device” can also be referred to as a “legacy device”. A WFD non-compliant device can not operate as a G / O state. The device in the G / O state can describe the identification information of the WFD non-compliant device in the management list.

(Configuration of MFP 10)
The MFP 10 includes an operation unit 12, a display unit 14, a print execution unit 16, a scan execution unit 18, a wireless LAN interface (hereinafter referred to as “I / F”) 20, and an NFC I / F 22. And a control unit 30. The operation unit 12 includes a plurality of keys. The user can input various instructions to the MFP 10 by operating the operation unit 12. The display unit 14 is a display for displaying various information. The print execution unit 16 is a printing mechanism such as an inkjet method or a laser method. The scan execution unit 18 is a scan mechanism such as a CCD or CIS.

  The wireless LAN I / F 20 is an interface for the control unit 30 to execute wireless communication according to the WFD scheme and wireless communication according to the normal Wi-Fi. The wireless LAN I / F 20 is physically one interface. However, in the wireless LAN I / F 20, a MAC address used in wireless communication according to the WFD scheme (hereinafter referred to as "MAC address for WFD") and a MAC used in wireless communication according to normal Wi-Fi Both an address (hereinafter referred to as "a MAC address for normal Wi-Fi") and an address are assigned. More specifically, the wireless LAN I / F 20 is normally assigned a Wi-Fi MAC address in advance. The control unit 30 generates a WFD MAC address using the normal Wi-Fi MAC address, and assigns the WFD MAC address to the wireless LAN I / F 20. The WFD MAC address is usually different from the Wi-Fi MAC address. Therefore, the control unit 30 can simultaneously execute both the wireless communication according to the WFD scheme and the wireless communication according to the normal Wi-Fi via the wireless LAN I / F 20. As a result, a situation in which the MFP 10 belongs to the WFD network and belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network can be established.

  In the G / O state, not only identification information of WFD compatible devices in the client state, but also identification information of non WFD compatible devices can be described in the management list. That is, a device in the G / O state can establish a WFD connection with a WFD non-compliant device. Generally speaking, the WFD connection is a wireless connection in which the WFD MAC address of the MFP 10 is used. The WFD network is a wireless network in which the WFD MAC address of the MFP 10 is used. Similarly, the normal Wi-Fi connection is a wireless connection in which the normal Wi-Fi MAC address of the MFP 10 is used. Further, the normal Wi-Fi network is a wireless network in which the normal Wi-Fi MAC address of the MFP 10 is used.

  The user can execute the wireless communication according to the WFD scheme using the wireless LAN I / F 20 by changing the setting of the wireless LAN I / F 20 by operating the operation unit 12 (hereinafter, “WFD = ON Change the mode to a mode (referred to as “mode”) and the mode in which wireless communication according to the WFD scheme using the wireless LAN I / F 20 can not be performed (hereinafter referred to as “WFD = OFF mode”) Can. The mode setting unit 46 sets either WFD = ON mode or WFD = OFF mode according to the user's operation. Specifically, the mode setting unit 46 stores the mode value representing the mode set by the user in the memory 34.

  In the state where WFDI / F = OFF mode, control unit 30 executes each process according to the WFD method (for example, the process of setting MFP 10 to the spontaneous G / O mode described later, the G / O negotiation, etc.) Can not do it. In the state where WFDI / F = ON, the memory 34 stores a value indicating the current state (G / O state, client state, or device state) of the MFP 10 related to WFD.

  The NFC I / F 22 is an interface for the control unit 30 to execute wireless communication in accordance with the NFC method. The NFC I / F 22 is configured of a chip physically different from the W-Fi I / F 20.

  Note that the communication speed for wireless communication via the wireless LAN I / F 20 (for example, the maximum communication speed is 11 to 454 Mbps) is the communication speed for wireless communication via the NFC I / F 22 (for example, the maximum communication speed is 100 to 424 Kbps) Faster than). Furthermore, the frequency of the carrier wave in the wireless communication via the wireless LAN I / F 20 (for example, 2.4 GHz band, 5.0 GHz band) is the frequency of the carrier wave in the wireless communication via the NFC I / F 22 (for example, 13.56 MHz band) It is different from Further, when the distance between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 is approximately 10 cm or less, the control unit 30 can execute wireless communication in accordance with the NFC method with the portable terminal 50 via the NFC I / F 22. On the other hand, even when the distance between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 is 10 cm or less or 10 cm or more (for example, about 100 m at the maximum), the control unit 30 uses the WFD method via the wireless LAN I / F 20. The wireless communication according to the second embodiment and the wireless communication according to the normal Wi-Fi can be performed with the portable terminal 50. That is, the maximum distance at which the MFP 10 can execute wireless communication with the communication destination device (for example, the portable terminal 50) via the wireless LAN I / F 20 is the MFP 10 can communicate with the communication destination device via the NFC I / F 22. Greater than the maximum distance over which wireless communication can be performed.

  The control unit 30 includes a CPU 32 and a memory 34. The CPU 32 executes various processes in accordance with the program stored in the memory 34. The functions of the units 40 to 46 are realized by the CPU 32 executing processing according to a program.

  The memory 34 is configured by a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk and the like. The memory 34 stores the above program executed by the CPU 32. The memory 34 includes a work area 38. The work area 38 is used to execute communication of target data (for example, print data) via the WFD network and information indicating that the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network when the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network. Wireless setting (including an authentication method, an encryption method, a password, a SSID (Service Set Identifier) of the wireless network, and a Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID)). Further, when the MFP 10 currently belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network, the work area 38 indicates information indicating that the MFP 10 currently belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network, and the target data via the normal Wi-Fi network. And a wireless setting for performing communication. The SSID of the WFD network is a network identifier for identifying the WFD network, and the SSID of the Wi-Fi network is usually a network identifier for identifying the Wi-Fi network. The BSSID of the WFD network is an identifier unique to the device in the G / O state (for example, the MAC address of the device in the G / O state), and the BSSID of the normal Wi-Fi network is an identifier unique to the AP Identifier).

  The work area 38 further stores a value indicating the current state (G / O state, client state, or device state) of the WFD when the MFP 10 is operating according to the WFD method. Work area 38 further stores a mode value representing WFD = ON mode or a mode value representing WFD = OFF mode.

  The user can set the MFP 10 to the spontaneous G / O mode by operating the operation unit 12. The spontaneous G / O mode is a mode that allows the MFP 10 to operate in the G / O state. A work area 38 in the memory 34 further stores a value indicating whether the MFP 10 is set to the spontaneous G / O mode. When establishing a WFD connection with another WFD-compatible device in device state, WFD-compatible device in device state normally selects which of G / O state and client state should operate. G / O Negotiation to make a decision. When the MFP 10 is set to the spontaneous G / O mode, the MFP 10 maintains operating in the G / O state without executing G / O negotiation.

(Configuration of portable terminal 50)
The mobile terminal 50 is, for example, a mobile phone (for example, a smart phone), a PDA, a notebook PC, a tablet PC, a mobile music player, a mobile video player, or the like. The portable terminal 50 is provided with two wireless interfaces of a wireless LAN I / F (that is, an interface for WFD and normal Wi-Fi) and an NFC I / F. Therefore, the portable terminal 50 can execute wireless communication with the MFP 10 using the wireless LAN I / F, and can perform wireless communication with the MFP 10 using the NFC I / F. The portable terminal 50 includes an application program for causing the MFP 10 to execute a function (for example, a print function, a scan function, and the like). The application program may be installed on the portable terminal 50 from a server provided by a vendor of the MFP 10, for example, or may be installed on the portable terminal 50 from media shipped together with the MFP 10.

  Similar to the MFP 10, the portable terminal 50 includes a work area 58 in the memory 54. In the work area 58, when the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to a WFD network or a normal Wi-Fi network, a wireless setting (authentication method, encryption method, password, wireless setting for executing communication via the network) is performed. Store the SSID and BSSID of the network). Furthermore, when the portable terminal 50 is operating according to the WFD scheme, the work area 58 indicates a state value representing the state of the portable terminal 50 (ie, the state of any of the G / O state, the client state and the device state). Store.

(Configuration of PC 8)
The PC 8 has a wireless LAN I / F (ie, an interface for WFD and normal Wi-Fi) but does not have an NFC I / F. Therefore, the PC 8 can execute communication with the MFP 10 using the wireless LAN I / F, but can not execute wireless communication in accordance with the NFC method. The PC 8 includes a driver program for causing the MFP 10 to execute processing (for example, print processing, scan processing, and the like). The driver program is usually installed on the PC 8 from the media shipped together with the MFP 10. However, in the modification, the driver program may be installed on the PC 8 from a server provided by the vendor of the MFP 10.

(Configuration of AP6)
The AP 6 is not a WFD G / O state device, but a normal access point called a wireless access point or a wireless LAN router. The AP 6 can establish a normal Wi-Fi connection with a plurality of devices. Thus, a normal Wi-Fi network including the AP 6 and the plurality of devices is constructed. The AP 6 receives data from one of a plurality of devices belonging to a normal Wi-Fi network, and transmits the data to another one of the plurality of devices. That is, the AP 6 relays communication between a pair of devices that normally belong to the Wi-Fi network.

  The differences between a WFD G / O state device and a normal AP are as follows. That is, a device in the GFD state of WFD is in a state other than the G / O state (that is, a client state) when it leaves the WFD network to which the device currently belongs and newly belongs to another WFD network. It can work. On the other hand, a normal AP (that is, AP 6) executes the function of relaying communication between a pair of devices regardless of which normal Wi-Fi network the AP belongs to, and can not operate in the client state. .

(Communication process executed by MFP 10)
Communication processing executed by the MFP 10 will be described with reference to FIG. The control unit 30 executes communication processing when the MFP 10 is turned on. In S2, the reception unit 40 monitors reception of NFC information by executing wireless communication in accordance with the NFC method. The receiving unit 40 receives NFC information via the NFC I / F 22. Specifically, the receiving unit 40 monitors that an NFC communication session is established between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50. While the MFP 10 is turned on, the receiving unit 40 causes the NFC I / F 22 to emit radio waves for detecting a device that can execute wireless communication according to the NFC method.

  The user of the portable terminal 50 activates an application program. The user operates the portable terminal 50 to cause the portable terminal 50 to generate NFC information including a process execution instruction (for example, a print instruction, a scan instruction) indicating a process to be executed by the MFP 10. The NFC information further includes the SSID and BSSID of the wireless network to which the portable terminal 50 currently belongs, when the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the wireless network. When the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the wireless network, at least one of WFD connection and normal Wi-Fi connection is connected between the portable terminal 50 and another device (for example, AP 6 or MFP 10). Is established.

  The user can bring the portable terminal 50 closer to the MFP 10. Thus, when the distance between the portable terminal 50 and the MFP 10 becomes smaller than the distance (for example, 10 cm) within which the radio waves reach each other, the portable terminal 50 receives the radio wave from the MFP 10 and transmits the response radio wave to the MFP 10 . As a result, the control unit 30 receives the response radio wave from the portable terminal 50 and establishes an NFC communication session. The portable terminal 50 transmits the generated NFC information to the MFP 10 when the NFC communication session is established.

  When NFC information is received (YES in S2), in S4, the determination unit 42 determines whether the MFP 10 currently belongs to the network. Specifically, determination unit 42 stores at least one of information indicating that it currently belongs to the WFD network and information indicating that it currently belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network in work area 38. If the MFP 10 is present, it is determined that the MFP 10 currently belongs to the wireless network (YES in S4), and the process proceeds to S6. On the other hand, when neither the information indicating that the information currently belongs to the WFD network nor the information indicating that the current information belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network is stored in the work area 38 Is determined not to currently belong to the wireless network (NO in S4), and the process proceeds to S8.

  In S6, the determination unit 42 checks whether the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. Specifically, the determination unit 42 first determines whether the SSID and BSSID of the network to which the portable terminal 50 currently belongs are included in the NFC information. If the SSID and the BSSID are not included in the NFC information, the determination unit 42 determines that the portable terminal 50 does not currently belong to the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs (NO in S6). According to this configuration, the MFP 10 can appropriately determine that the portable terminal 50 does not currently belong to the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. If the SSID and BSSID of the network to which the portable terminal 50 currently belongs are included in the NFC information, the determination unit 42 determines the SSID and BSSID included in the wireless setting stored in the work area 38. Determines whether the SSID and the BSSID included in the NFC information match.

  If both the SSID and the BSSID match, it is determined that the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs (YES in S6), and the process proceeds to S7. On the other hand, if at least one of the SSID and the BSSID does not match, it is determined that the portable terminal 50 does not currently belong to the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs (NO in S6), and the process proceeds to S8. According to this configuration, the MFP 10 can appropriately determine whether the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. In S6, the determination unit 42 determines whether the SSIDs match, and determines whether the BSSIDs match. Thus, the determination unit 42 can determine whether the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 belong to the same wireless network established by the same AP. More specifically, one AP may construct a plurality of wireless networks by using a plurality of SSIDs. Therefore, when the BSSIDs match and the SSIDs do not match, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 may belong to different wireless networks configured by the same AP. In this embodiment, it is possible to more reliably determine whether the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 belong to the same wireless network by determining whether or not both the SSID and the BSSID match. In the modification, it is not necessary to determine whether the SSIDs match in S6 and not to determine whether the BSSIDs match. Thus, even if the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 belong to wireless networks established by different access points, if the SSIDs match, it is determined that the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 belong to the same wireless network. obtain.

  When the mobile terminal 50 currently belongs to the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs, the MFP 10 and the mobile terminal 50 can execute communication via the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. That is, the portable terminal 50 can execute wireless communication with the MFP 10 using the wireless setting currently stored in the work area 58. In S7, the control unit 30 transmits setting change unnecessary information indicating that data communication can be performed without changing the wireless setting of the portable terminal 50 via the NFC I / F 22, and the process proceeds to S20. The setting change unnecessary information includes the IP address of the MFP 10.

  In S8, the determination unit 42 determines whether WFD = ON mode is set. When the mode value stored in the memory 34 is a value indicating WFD = ON mode, the determination unit 42 determines YES in S8, and proceeds to S10. On the other hand, when the mode value stored in the memory 34 is a value indicating WFD = OFF mode, the determination unit 42 determines NO in S8, and proceeds to S9.

  In S9, the communication execution unit 44 changes the WFD = OFF mode to the WFD = ON mode by changing the mode value stored in the memory 34, and proceeds to S15. The communication execution unit 44 further stores setting change information indicating that the mode value has been changed in the memory 34.

  In S10, the determination unit 42 determines whether the MFP 10 is operating in the client state in the wireless network to which it currently belongs. Specifically, when the state value stored in the work area 38 is a value representing the client state, the determination unit 42 determines that the client state is operating (YES in S10). On the other hand, when the state value stored in the work area 38 is not a value representing the client state, the determination unit 42 determines that the client state is not operating (NO in S10). In the case of YES in S10, the process proceeds to S14.

  On the other hand, in the case of NO in S10, in S12, the determination unit 42 determines whether or not the MFP 10 is operating in the G / O state in the wireless network to which it currently belongs. Specifically, if the state value stored in work area 38 is a value representing a G / O state, determination unit 42 determines that it is operating as a G / O state (YES in S12). ). On the other hand, when the state value stored in work area 38 is not a value representing the G / O state, determining unit 42 does not operate as the G / O state (that is, MFP 10 is in the device state). It judges (it is NO at S12). If YES at S12, the process proceeds to S13, and if NO at S12, the process proceeds to S15.

  In S13, the determination unit 42 determines in advance the number of devices other than the MFP 10 included in the WFD network in which the MFP 10 is operating in the G / O state (that is, devices having a connection established with the MFP 10). Determine if it is less than the maximum number of clients. The determination unit 42 determines YES in S13 if the number of device identification information items stored in the management list is smaller than the maximum number of clients, and determines NO in S13 if they are equal. If YES in S13, the process proceeds to S16, and if NO in S13, the process proceeds to S14.

  In S14, the communication execution unit 44 transmits communication NG information indicating that the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 can not currently execute communication to the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, and the process proceeds to S2. Return.

  In S15, the communication execution unit 44 sets the MFP 10 to the spontaneous G / O mode. The spontaneous G / O mode is a mode that allows the MFP 10 to operate in the G / O state. Therefore, the WFD network is not established at the stage of S15, but the MFP 10 is set to the G / O state. When the MFP 10 is set to the G / O state, the communication execution unit 44 performs wireless communication with the WFD compatible device or / and the WFD non-compliant device with the MFP 10 operating in the G / O state via the WFD network. Prepare wireless settings (SSID, BSSID, authentication method, encryption method, password, etc.) for execution. According to this configuration, the MFP 10 receives the wireless setting whether the device receiving the wireless setting from the MFP 10 (the portable terminal 50 in the present embodiment) is a WFD compatible device or a WFD non-compliant device. And wireless communication can be performed.

  The authentication method and the encryption method are predetermined. Also, the communication execution unit 44 generates a password. The SSID may be generated by the communication execution unit 44 when generating the password, or may be determined in advance. The BSSID is a MAC address of the MFP 10. At this stage, identification information of the device connected to the device in the G / O state is not described in the management list managed by the MFP 10.

  In S16, the communication execution unit 44 transmits the prepared wireless setting to the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22. When the process of S16 is executed after the process of S15, the communication execution unit 44 transmits, to the portable terminal 50, the wireless setting prepared in the step (S15) in which the spontaneous G / O mode is set. When the process of S16 is executed after the process of S13, the communication execution unit 44 prepares the NFC I / F 22 for the wireless setting prepared at the stage when the WFD network in which the MFP 10 operates in the G / O state is constructed. It transmits to the portable terminal 50 using.

  Next, in S18, the communication execution unit 44 establishes a WFD connection between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 using the wireless LAN I / F 20. When the portable terminal 50 receives the wireless setting of the MFP 10 operating in the G / O state from the MFP 10, the portable terminal 50 stores the received wireless setting in the work area 58. Therefore, the portable terminal 50 executes wireless communication in accordance with normal Wi-Fi. Next, the communication execution unit 44 executes wireless communication of Authentication Request, Authentication Response, Association Request, Association Response, and 4 way handshake with the portable terminal 50. In the above wireless communication process, various authentication processes such as authentication of an SSID, authentication of an authentication method and an encryption method, authentication of a password, and the like are performed. When all the authentications are successful, a wireless connection is established between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50.

  In the process of S18, the communication execution unit 44 acquires the MAC address of the portable terminal 50 using the wireless LAN I / F 20. When the wireless connection is established, the control unit 30 further adds the MAC address of the portable terminal 50 to the management list. The MAC address of the portable terminal 50 is included in the NFC information. As a result, the MFP 10 in the G / O state can execute communication of target data (print data, scan data, etc.) with the portable terminal 50 in accordance with normal Wi-Fi. The target data includes data of a network layer which is a layer higher than the physical layer of the OSI reference model. Therefore, the MFP 10 in the G / O state can execute wireless communication of the network layer with the portable terminal 50 in the client state.

  Next, in S20, the communication execution unit 44 executes data communication processing with the portable terminal 50 via the wireless LAN I / F 20. The contents of the data communication process change depending on the contents of the process execution instruction included in the NFC information. When the process execution instruction is a print instruction, the communication execution unit 44 receives print data from the portable terminal 50 in the data communication process. In this case, the control unit 30 causes the print execution unit 16 to execute print processing using the received print data.

  On the other hand, when the process execution instruction is a scan instruction, the control unit 30 causes the scan execution unit 18 to scan the document set in the scan execution unit 18 and generate scan data. Next, the communication execution unit 44 transmits the generated scan data to the portable terminal 50.

  Next, in S21, the communication execution unit 44 monitors the reception of the disconnection request for disconnecting the connection with the portable terminal 50 from the portable terminal 50 using the wireless LAN I / F 20. If the disconnection request is not received even after the predetermined period has elapsed (NO in S21), the process returns to S2. On the other hand, when the disconnection request is received from the portable terminal 50 within a predetermined period after the data communication process of S20 is completed (YES in S21), the communication execution unit 44 disconnects the wireless connection with the portable terminal 50. . Specifically, the communication execution unit 44 erases the MAC address of the portable terminal 50 in the management list. Next, in S22, the communication execution unit 44 determines whether the setting of the wireless LAN I / F 20 has been changed by the process of S9. Specifically, when the setting change information is stored in the memory 34, the communication execution unit 44 determines in S9 that the mode value indicating WFD = OFF mode is changed to the mode value indicating WFD = ON mode. Then (YES in S22), the process proceeds to S23. On the other hand, when the setting change information is not stored in the memory 34, the communication execution unit 44 does not change the mode value indicating WFD = OFF mode to the mode value indicating WFD = ON mode in S9 (S22 It judges as NO) and returns to S2.

  In S23, the communication execution unit 44 determines whether an external device (for example, the PC 8) other than the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the WFD network newly constructed in S18. Specifically, when the communication execution unit 44 includes identification information other than the identification information of the portable terminal 50 in the management list, the external device currently belongs to the WFD network (YES in S23). I will judge. In this case, the mode value is not changed, and the process returns to S2. According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the MFP 10 from being detached from the WFD network when the external apparatus currently belongs to the WFD network.

  On the other hand, when no identification information other than the portable terminal 50 is included in the management list, the communication execution unit 44 determines that the external device does not currently belong to the WFD network (NO in S23), Go to S24. In S24, the communication execution unit 44 changes the mode value indicating WFD = ON mode to the mode value indicating WFD = OFF mode, and returns to S2. That is, in the communication processing, when it is determined in S8 that WFD = OFF mode, in order to temporarily execute wireless communication using the wireless LAN I / F 20 with the portable terminal 50 via the WFD network. , Change from WFD = OFF mode to WFD = ON mode. When the WFD = ON mode is changed to the WFD = OFF mode in S25, the WFD network constructed in S18 disappears. According to this configuration, when the mode value is changed from the mode value indicating WFD = OFF mode to the mode value indicating WFD = ON mode during the communication processing, the mode value can be returned to the setting before the change. it can.

(Effect of this embodiment)
The effects of the present embodiment in the first to fifth situations will be described with reference to FIGS. In each of FIGS. 3 to 7, processing corresponding to the communication processing of FIG. 2 is shown.

(First situation)
In the first situation shown in FIG. 3, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 are currently in the same WFD network or the same normal Wi-Fi network. In this situation, when NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, the MFP 10 determines that the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs in S6. (YES at S6). The MFP 10 transmits the setting change unnecessary information to the portable terminal 50 by using the NFC I / F 22 in S7. When receiving the setting change unnecessary information, the portable terminal 50 transmits the print data to the MFP 10 using the IP address included in the setting change unnecessary information and the wireless setting stored in the work area 58. The MFP 10 receives the print data using the wireless LAN I / F 20 (S20). When the MFP 10 receives the print data, the MFP 10 causes the print execution unit 16 to execute print processing.

  In the sequence diagram of this specification, the MFP 10 performs wireless communication using the NFC I / F 22 (that is, wireless communication according to the NFC method) and wireless communication that the MFP 10 uses the wireless LAN I / F 20 (that is, WFD method or normal Wi The wireless communication according to −Fi) is represented by an arrow. An arrow representing wireless communication using the wireless LAN I / F 20 is thicker than an arrow representing wireless communication using the NFC I / F 22.

  According to this configuration, when it is determined that the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs, the MFP 10 changes the wireless settings currently set for the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50. Instead, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 can appropriately execute communication of print data via the currently belonging network.

(Second situation)
In the second situation shown in FIG. 4, the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network. The MFP 10 operates in the GFD state in the WFD network. The PC 8 in the client state currently belongs to the WFD network. The portable terminal 50 does not currently belong to the wireless network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. The portable terminal 50 may or may not currently belong to a wireless network other than the wireless network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs.

  In this situation, when NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, the MFP 10 does not currently belong to the WFD network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs in S6. It judges (it is YES at S6). The NFC information includes the SSID and BSSID of the wireless network when the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the wireless network, but when the portable terminal 50 does not currently belong to the wireless network, the NFC information It does not include the SSID and the BSSID. The MFP 10 determines in S12 that the MFP 10 is in the G / O state (YES in S12). In this case, in S16, the MFP 10 transmits the wireless setting of the MFP 10 stored in the work area 38 and the IP address of the MFP 10 to the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22. When receiving the wireless setting, the portable terminal 50 stores the received wireless setting in the work area 58. Next, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 establish a WFD connection (S18). Thus, the portable terminal 50 can belong to the WFD network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. The MFP 10 transmits the wireless setting including the authentication method and the encryption method of the MFP 10 to the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22. According to this configuration, the portable terminal 50 can execute the authentication process according to the authentication method and the encryption method received from the MFP 10, and executes the process of confirming which authentication method and the encryption method should be used. It is not necessary. Therefore, the connection between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 can be established relatively early.

  Next, the portable terminal 50 transmits print data to the MFP 10 using the wireless setting stored in the work area 58 and the IP address received in S16. The MFP 10 receives the print data using the wireless LAN I / F 20 (S20). When the MFP 10 receives the print data, the MFP 10 causes the print execution unit 16 to execute print processing. According to this configuration, when the MFP 10 operates in the GFD state in the WFD network, the MFP 10 communicates the print data with the portable terminal 50 via the WFD network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. It can be done properly.

(Third situation)
In the third situation shown in FIG. 5, the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network. The MFP 10 operates in the client state in the WFD network. In the WFD network, the PC 8 in the G / O state currently belongs, but the portable terminal 50 does not currently belong. The portable terminal 50 is similar to the second situation.

  In this situation, when NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, the MFP 10 does not currently belong to the WFD network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs in S6. It judges (it is NO at S6). In S10, the MFP 10 determines that the MFP 10 is in the client state (YES in S10). In this case, in S14, the MFP 10 transmits communication NG information to the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22.

  In this case, the MFP 10 does not transmit the wireless setting stored in the work area 38 to the portable terminal 50. According to this configuration, it is not necessary to provide the portable terminal 50 with the wireless setting of the PC 8 operating in the G / O state in the WFD network. As a result, the mobile terminal 50 can be prevented from entering the WFD network. Further, the portable terminal 50 can notify the user of the portable terminal 50 that the MFP 10 does not execute the communication of the object data with the portable terminal 50 by receiving the communication NG information from the MFP 10.

(The fourth situation)
In the fourth situation shown in FIG. 6, the MFP 10 is set to WFD = ON mode, but does not currently belong to the WFD network. That is, the MFP 10 operates in the device state. The MFP 10 is in either the state currently belonging to the normal Wi-Fi network or the state not currently belonging. The portable terminal 50 is similar to the second situation.

  In this situation, when NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, in S4, the MFP 10 determines that the MFP 10 does not currently belong to the network (NO in S4: MFP 10 is normal) If the portable terminal 50 does not currently belong to the normal Wi-Fi network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs (S6), or if the portable terminal 50 does not currently belong to the normal Wi-Fi network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs (S6) YES: when the MFP 10 is currently in a state of belonging to the normal Wi-Fi network). In S10 and S12, the MFP 10 determines that the MFP 10 is neither in the G / O state nor in the client state (NO in S10 and S12). In this case, in S15, the MFP 10 sets the MFP 10 to the spontaneous G / O mode without executing the G / O negotiation.

  Next, in S16, the MFP 10 sets the wireless settings of the MFP 10 stored in the work area 38 (that is, the wireless settings prepared in the stage where the spontaneous G / O mode is set in S15), and the IP address of the MFP 10 , And to the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22. When receiving the wireless setting, the portable terminal 50 stores the received wireless setting in the work area 58. Next, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 establish a WFD connection (S18). Thereby, the portable terminal 50 can belong to the WFD network in which the MFP 10 operates in the G / O state.

  Next, the portable terminal 50 transmits print data to the MFP 10 using the wireless setting stored in the work area 58 and the IP address received in S16. The MFP 10 receives the print data using the wireless LAN I / F 20 (S20). When the MFP 10 receives the print data, the MFP 10 causes the print execution unit 16 to execute print processing. According to this configuration, the MFP 10 can newly construct a WFD network that operates in the G / O state in the WFD network. Thereby, the MFP 10 can appropriately execute communication of print data with the portable terminal 50 via the newly constructed WFD network. Further, the MFP 10 inevitably operates in the G / O state in the newly constructed WFD network, and therefore can determine an authentication method and the like used in the WFD network.

(The fifth situation)
In the fifth situation shown in FIG. 7, the MFP 10 is set to the WFD = OFF mode. The MFP 10 is in either the state currently belonging to the normal Wi-Fi network or the state not currently belonging. The portable terminal 50 is similar to the second situation.

  In this situation, when NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, as in the fourth situation, NO is determined in S4 or S6. The MFP 10 determines that the WFD = OFF mode is set in S8. In this case, in S9, the MFP 10 changes the WFD = OFF mode to the WFD = ON mode. Next, the MFP 10 sets the MFP 10 to the spontaneous G / O mode in S15.

  The following is the same as the fourth situation up to the printing process. Also in this configuration, the same effects as in the fourth situation can be achieved. When the printing process is completed, the MFP 10 determines that the external apparatus does not currently belong to the newly constructed WFD network (NO in S23), and changes the WFD = ON mode to the WFD = OFF mode. According to this configuration, when the external apparatus does not belong to the WFD network after the communication of the print data, it is possible to appropriately change the WFD = ON mode to the WFD = OFF mode.

  In the present embodiment, the MFP 10 executes processing according to whether the MFP 10 currently belongs to the same network as the portable terminal 50, that is, whether the MFP 10 can communicate with the portable terminal 50. As a result, wireless communication between the portable terminal 50 and the target data can be appropriately performed at a relatively high communication speed using the wireless LAN I / F 20. Further, the MFP 10 can execute communication of target data via the WFD network without passing through the portable terminal 50 and the access point different from the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50.

  Furthermore, in the case where the MFP 10 can not communicate with the portable terminal 50 and the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network, the portable terminal 50 and the target data are transmitted via the WFD network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. Communication can be performed properly. Further, when the MFP 10 does not currently belong to the WFD network, the MFP 10 can appropriately execute communication of object data with the portable terminal 50 via the newly constructed WFD network.

(Correspondence relationship)
The MFP 10 is an example of the “communication apparatus”, the NFC I / F 22 is an example of the “first type of interface”, and the wireless LAN I / F 20 is an example of the “second type of interface”. From the above description, the NFC I / F 22 (that is, the “first type of interface”) is configured to execute the communication using the wireless LAN I / F 20 (that is, the “second type of interface”). It can be said that the interface used for communication performed between the communication device “) and the portable terminal 50.

  AP 6 is an example of the “access point”. That is, the “access point” is a device that relays communication between a pair of devices that normally belong to the Wi-Fi network in the network to which the access point belongs, that is, the normal Wi-Fi network.

  The NFC information is an example of “specific information”, and the SSID and the BSSID included in the NFC information are “wireless network identifiers included in specific information”. The state in which the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs is the “communicable state”. The processes of S15 to S18 are an example of the “specifying process”. Wireless communication via the WFD network using the wireless LAN I / F 20 is an example of “specific wireless communication”. The G / O state is an example of the "master station state", and the client state is an example of the "child station state". When it is determined YES in S4, the WFD network to which the MFP 10 belongs is an example of the “first wireless network”, and the WFD network constructed by the processing of S15 to S18 is the “second wireless network”. An example of The communication NG information is an example of “information indicating that communication of target data is not performed”. The WFD = ON mode is an example of the “first mode”, and the WFD = OFF mode is an example of the “second mode”.

Second Embodiment
Points different from the first embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, the communication process of FIG. 8 is executed instead of the communication process of FIG. S2 to S24 in FIG. 8 are the same as the processes in S2 to S24 in FIG. 2. In the case of YES in S10, that is, when the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network and operates as a client state in the WFD network, in S42, the determination unit 42 determines the WFD network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. It is judged whether or not it is possible to leave from. Specifically, the determination unit 42 determines whether the WFD network to which the data communication currently belongs is currently being performed or the data communication is to be performed. It is judged that it can not leave from (NO in S42). On the other hand, the determination unit 42 can leave the WFD network to which it currently belongs when it is neither in the state of executing data communication via the WFD network nor in the state of executing data communication. It is determined that (S42: YES).

  For example, in the WFD network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs, it is assumed that the PC 8 operates in the G / O state. When the MFP 10 is currently receiving print data from the PC 8 using the wireless LAN I / F 20, the determination unit 42 determines that the data communication is currently being executed. When the MFP 10 is generating scan data according to a scan instruction from the PC 8, the MFP 10 should transmit to the PC 8 using the wireless LAN I / F 20 when the scan data is generated. It is determined that data communication should be performed.

  If NO at S42, the process proceeds to S14, and if YES at S42, the process proceeds to S44. In S44, the communication execution unit 44 causes the MFP 10 to leave the WFD network in which the MFP 10 currently participates. Specifically, the communication execution unit 44 deletes the wireless setting stored in the work area 38, and changes the state value in the work area 38 to a value representing the device state. Subsequently, the communication execution unit 44 executes the process of S15.

(Effect of this embodiment)
The MFP 10 of the second embodiment can achieve the same effects as the MFP 10 of the first embodiment in the first, second, fourth, and fifth situations. The effects of this embodiment in the sixth and seventh situations will be described with reference to FIGS. In each of FIGS. 9 and 10, processing corresponding to the communication processing of FIG. 8 is shown.

(Sixth situation)
In the sixth situation shown in FIG. 9, the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network. The MFP 10 operates in the client state in the WFD network. In the WFD network, the PC 8 in the G / O state currently belongs, but the portable terminal 50 does not currently belong. The portable terminal 50 is similar to the second situation. Furthermore, the MFP 10 is receiving print data from the PC 8.

  In this situation, when NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, as in the third situation, NO is determined in S6, and YES is determined in S10. Since the MFP 10 is receiving print data from the PC 8, the MFP 10 determines that it can not leave the WFD network (NO in S42). In this case, in S14, the MFP 10 transmits the communication NG information to the portable terminal 50 via the NFC I / F 22.

  According to this configuration, when the MFP 10 is executing data communication via the WFD network to which it currently belongs, or when it should execute data communication via the WFD network to which it currently belongs, Can be prevented from leaving the WFD network to which it currently belongs.

(The seventh situation)
In the seventh situation shown in FIG. 10, the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network. The MFP 10 operates in the client state in the WFD network. In the WFD network, the PC 8 in the G / O state currently belongs, but the portable terminal 50 does not currently belong. However, the MFP 10 is not currently executing data communication with the PC 8 and is not in a situation where it should execute data communication with the PC 8. The portable terminal 50 is similar to the second situation.

  In this situation, when NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, as in the sixth situation, it is determined as NO in S6 and as YES in S10. MFP 10 can leave the WFD network to which it currently belongs, since MFP 10 is neither in a state in which data communication is performed via the WFD network nor in a state in which data communication should be performed. It judges (it is YES at S42). In this case, in S15, the MFP 10 sets the MFP 10 to the spontaneous G / O mode. The following process is the same as the process after MFP 10 is set to the spontaneous G / O mode in the fourth situation.

  According to this configuration, the MFP 10 can leave the WFD network in which the MFP 10 operates in the client state, and can newly construct a WFD network. As a result, the MFP 10 can appropriately execute communication of target data with the portable terminal 50 via the newly constructed WFD network.

(Correspondence relationship)
The processes of S42 and S44 and the processes of S15 to S18 in FIG. 8 are examples of the “specifying process”.

Third Embodiment
Points different from the first embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, the communication process of FIG. 11 is executed instead of the communication process of FIG. Note that, in the present embodiment, WFD correspondence information indicating whether or not the portable terminal 50 can execute wireless communication in accordance with the WFD scheme, and the device ID of the portable terminal 50 (for example, MAC address, The MFP 10 transmits NFC information further including the serial number and the like.

  S2 to S24 in FIG. 11 are the same as the processes in S4 to 24 in FIG. When the process of S9 is executed, and when it is determined NO in S12, that is, when the MFP 10 is operating in the device state, in S52, the determination unit 42 uses the NFC information to use the portable terminal. It is determined whether 50 can execute wireless communication according to the WFD scheme. When the determination unit 42 includes WFD correspondence information indicating that the portable terminal 50 can execute the wireless communication according to the WFD method in the NFC information, the wireless communication according to the portable terminal 50 according to the WFD method Is determined to be executable (YES in S52), and the process proceeds to S54.

  On the other hand, when the determination section 42 does not include WFD correspondence information indicating that the portable terminal 50 can execute wireless communication according to the WFD method in the NFC information, the portable terminal 50 follows the WFD method. It is determined that wireless communication can not be performed (NO in S52), and the process proceeds to S15.

  In S54, the communication execution unit 44 transmits WFD connection start information indicating start of WFD connection to the portable terminal 50 via the NFC I / F 22. The wireless connection method of WPS (abbreviation of Wi-Fi Protected Setup) is used as a method for executing the WFD wireless connection. The wireless connection method of WPS includes PBC (abbreviation of Push Button Configuration) method and PIN (abbreviation of Personal Identification Number) coding method. Although the PBC code system will be described in this embodiment, the technology of this embodiment is also applicable to the PIN code system. The WFD connection start information includes information indicating that the PBC coding method is used as a method for performing the WFD wireless connection. The WFD connection start information further includes the device ID of the MFP 10 (for example, the MAC address, the serial number, etc.). Thus, the portable terminal 50 that receives WFD connection start information recognizes that the device identified by the device ID included in the WFD connection start information (that is, the MFP 10) and the processing of S58 and S62 described below should be executed. be able to.

  When the WFD connection start information is received, the portable terminal 50 determines whether the portable terminal 50 can perform wireless communication according to the WFD scheme. The portable terminal 50 maintains the setting of the wireless LAN I / F when the setting is capable of executing the wireless communication according to the WFD method, and according to the WFD method when the setting is not capable of executing the wireless communication according to the WFD method. Change the wireless communication to an executable setting.

  Next, in S55, the communication execution unit 44 searches for the portable terminal 50. Specifically, the communication execution unit 44 sequentially executes Scan processing, Listen processing, and Search processing. The Scan process is a process for searching for devices in the G / O state existing around the MFP 10. Specifically, in the scan process, the communication execution unit 44 sequentially transmits Probe Request signals wirelessly using 13 channels of 1ch to 13ch sequentially. The probe request signal includes P2P (Peer 2 Peer) information indicating that the MFP 10 can execute the WFD function.

  For example, when there is a WFD compatible device in the G / O state (hereinafter referred to as a “specific G / O device”) around the MFP 10, the specific G / O device is one of 1 ch to 13 ch. It is decided in advance to use a number of channels. Therefore, a specific G / O device wirelessly receives a Probe Request signal from the MFP 10. In this case, the specific G / O device transmits a Probe Response signal to the MFP 10 wirelessly. The Probe Response signal includes P2P information indicating that the specific G / O device can execute the WFD function, and information indicating that the specific G / O device is in the G / O state. As a result, the communication execution unit 44 can find a specific G / O device. The above Probe Response signal further includes information indicating the device name of a specific G / O device, the type of a specific G / O device (for example, a portable terminal, a PC, etc.), and the specific G / O device. And the MAC address of. As a result, the communication execution unit 44 can acquire information on a specific G / O device.

  When the device ID of the specific G / O device included in the Probe Response signal matches the device ID of the portable terminal 50 included in the NFC information, the communication execution unit 44 determines that the specific G / O device is a mobile device. The terminal 50 can be identified. That is, when the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the WFD network and operates in the GFD state in the WFD network, the communication execution unit 44 may find the portable terminal 50 by the scan process. it can.

  For example, when there is a WFD compatible device in the device state (hereinafter referred to as “specific device device”) around the MFP 10, the specific device device is one of 1 ch, 6 ch, and 11 ch. It is decided in advance to use the channel. Therefore, a specific device device also receives a Probe Request signal from the MFP 10 wirelessly. In this case, the specific device device wirelessly transmits a probe response signal to the MFP 10. However, this Probe Response signal includes information indicating that it is in the device state, and does not include information that indicates that it is in the G / O state. Further, even if the device in the client state wirelessly receives a probe request signal from the MFP 10, the device does not wirelessly transmit the probe response signal to the MFP 10. Therefore, the communication execution unit 44 can find the portable terminal 50 in the scan process, whether the portable terminal 50 is in the G / O state or in the device state.

  The Listen process is a process for responding to the Probe Request signal. The specific device device can wirelessly transmit a probe request signal in a search process described later. That is, when the current state of the portable terminal 50 is the device state, the portable terminal 50 wirelessly transmits the Probe Request signal periodically. The Probe Request signal includes the device ID (for example, MAC address, serial number, etc.) of the portable terminal 50.

  The communication execution unit 44 determines that the specific device device is the portable terminal 50 when the device ID of the specific device device included in the Probe Request signal matches the device ID of the portable terminal 50 included in the NFC information. Can be identified. That is, when the portable terminal 50 is operating in the device state, the communication execution unit 44 can discover the portable terminal 50 by the Listen process. When receiving the probe request signal from the portable terminal 50, the communication execution unit 44 wirelessly transmits the probe response signal.

  In the Search process, the communication execution unit 44 sequentially transmits a Probe Request signal wirelessly using three channels of 1 ch, 6 ch, and 11 ch in order. Thus, the communication execution unit 44 wirelessly receives a probe response signal from a specific device device. The Probe Response signal includes P2P information indicating that the specific device device can execute the WFD function, information indicating that the specific device device is in the device state, and the device ID of the specific device device (for example, MAC) Address, serial number, etc.). When the current state of the portable terminal 50 is the device state, the portable terminal 50 wirelessly transmits a probe response signal as a response to the probe request signal transmitted from the MFP 10.

  The communication execution unit 44 determines that the specific device device is the portable terminal 50 when the device ID of the specific device device included in the Probe Response signal matches the device ID of the portable terminal 50 included in the NFC information. Can be identified. That is, when the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the WFD network and operates as a device state in the WFD network, the communication execution unit 44 can find the portable terminal 50 by the Search process.

  In S55 described above, the communication execution unit 44 can find the portable terminal 50 when the portable terminal 50 is operating in the G / O state and in the device state (S56). YES). If the portable terminal 50 is not found in S56 (NO in S56), the process proceeds to S14.

  When the portable terminal 50 is found (YES in S56), in S57, the communication execution unit 44 determines whether the found portable terminal 50 is in the device state. Specifically, when the information indicating the device state is received in the process of S55, the portable terminal 50 determines that the device state is (YES in S57), and the process proceeds to S58. On the other hand, when the information indicating the device state is not received in the process of S55, it is determined that the portable terminal 50 is not in the device state (that is, the portable terminal 50 is in the G / O state) (NO in S57). , S62.

  In S58, the communication execution unit 44 executes G / O negotiation with the portable terminal 50 by using the wireless LAN I / F 20 to put either one of the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 in the G / O state. Decide to operate as the other device and to operate as the client state.

  Specifically, the communication execution unit 44 first transmits a connection request signal to the portable terminal 50 by wireless. As a result, the portable terminal 50 also wirelessly transmits the OK signal to the MFP 10. Next, the communication execution unit 44 wirelessly transmits information indicating the G / O priority of the MFP 10 to the portable terminal 50, and receives information indicating the G / O priority of the portable terminal 50 from the portable terminal 50. The G / O priority of the MFP 10 is an index indicating the extent to which the MFP 10 should become G / O, and is determined in advance in the MFP 10. Similarly, the G / O priority of the portable terminal 50 is an index indicating the degree to which the portable terminal 50 should become G / O. For example, a device with a relatively high CPU and memory capability (e.g., the MFP 10) can execute other processes at high speed while operating as a G / O. Therefore, G / O priorities are usually set such that the degree of G / O should be high. On the other hand, for example, a device with relatively low CPU and memory capabilities (for example, the portable terminal 50) may not be able to execute other processes at high speed while operating as a G / O. Therefore, G / O priorities are usually set such that the degree of G / O should be low.

  The communication execution unit 44 compares the G / O priority of the MFP 10 with the G / O priority of the portable terminal 50, and operates the device (MFP 10 or portable terminal 50) having the higher priority as the G / O state. It decides what should be done, and decides that the device with lower priority (MFP 10 or portable terminal 50) should operate as the client state. When it is determined that the MFP 10 should operate in the G / O state, the communication execution unit 44 changes the state value in the memory 34 from the value corresponding to the device state to the value corresponding to the G / O state . As a result, the MFP 10 operates in the G / O state. Further, when it is determined that the MFP 10 should operate in the client state, the communication execution unit 44 changes the state value in the memory 34 from the value corresponding to the device state to the value corresponding to the client state. As a result, the MFP 10 operates in the client state. The portable terminal 50 determines the G / O state and the client state based on the G / O priority of the MFP 10 and the G / O priority of the target device using the same method as the MFP 10. When the G / O negotiation in S58 is completed, the process proceeds to S62.

  In S62, the communication execution unit 44 establishes connection between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 in accordance with WPS. Specifically, communication execution unit 44 determines whether the current state of MFP 10 is the G / O state and the current state of portable terminal 50 is the client state. If the current state of the MFP 10 is the G / O state and the current state of the portable terminal 50 is the client state, the communication execution unit 44 executes WPS negotiation for the G / O state.

  Specifically, the communication execution unit 44 generates a wireless setting (SSID, an authentication method, an encryption method, a password, and the like) necessary for establishing a wireless connection, and wirelessly transmits the wireless setting to the mobile terminal 50. The authentication method and the encryption method are predetermined. Also, the communication execution unit 44 generates a password when generating the wireless setting. The SSID may be generated by the communication execution unit 44 or may be determined in advance. By transmitting the wireless setting to the portable terminal 50, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 can use the same wireless setting. That is, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 execute wireless communication of Authentication Request, Authentication Response, Association Request, Association Response, and 4 way handshake using the wireless setting. In this process, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 execute various authentication processes such as authentication of the SSID, authentication of the authentication method and encryption method, authentication of the password, and the like. When all the authentications are successful, a wireless connection is established between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50. As a result, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 are in the state of belonging to the same WFD network.

  On the other hand, when the current state of the MFP 10 is the client state and the current state of the target device is the G / O state, the communication execution unit 44 executes WPS negotiation for the client state. Specifically, the portable terminal 50 generates a wireless setting (SSID, an authentication method, an encryption method, a password, and the like) necessary for establishing a wireless connection, and wirelessly transmits the wireless setting to the MFP 10. As a result, the communication execution unit 44 wirelessly receives the wireless setting from the portable terminal 50. The subsequent processing (communication processing such as Authentication Request) is the same as WPS negotiation for the G / O state. As a result, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 are in the state of belonging to the same WFD network. As a result, the MFP 10 in the client state can execute wireless communication of target data (such as print data) with the portable terminal 50 in the G / O state. When S62 ends, the control unit 30 executes the processes of S20 to S24 in FIG. 2 and ends the communication process.

(Effect of this embodiment)
The MFP 10 of the third embodiment can achieve the same effects as those of the MFP 10 of the first embodiment in the first to third situations. The effects of the present embodiment in the eighth and nineteenth situations will be described with reference to FIGS. In each of FIGS. 12 and 13, processing corresponding to the communication processing of FIG. 11 is shown.

(The eighth situation)
In the eighth situation shown in FIG. 12, the MFP 10 is set to the WFD = ON mode, but does not currently belong to the WFD network. That is, the MFP 10 operates in the device state. The MFP 10 is in either the state currently belonging to the normal Wi-Fi network or the state not currently belonging. The portable terminal 50 does not currently belong to the wireless network.

  In this situation, when NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, the MFP 10 determines NO in S4 or S6 as in the fourth situation, and NO in S10 and S12. I will judge.

  The MFP 10 transmits the WFD connection start information to the portable terminal 50 using the wireless LAN I / F 20 (S54). Next, the MFP 10 performs the search process of S55 to search for the portable terminal 50. When the MFP 10 discovers the portable terminal 50 (YES in 56), the MFP 10 determines whether the discovered portable terminal 50 is in the device state (S57). If it is determined that the device is in the device state (YES in S57), G / O negotiation (S58) and WPS negotiation (S62) are executed using the wireless LAN I / F 20. Thus, a WFD network to which the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 belong is constructed.

  Next, the portable terminal 50 transmits the print data to the MFP 10. The MFP 10 receives the print data using the wireless LAN I / F 20 (S20). When the MFP 10 receives the print data, the MFP 10 causes the print execution unit 16 to execute print processing.

(The 9th situation)
In the ninth situation of FIG. 13, the MFP 10 is set to the WFD = OFF mode. The MFP 10 is in either the state currently belonging to the normal Wi-Fi network or the state not currently belonging. The portable terminal 50 does not currently belong to the wireless network.

  In this situation, when the NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, the MFP 10 determines NO in S4 or S6 and determines NO in S8, as in the fifth situation. Do. In this case, in S9, the MFP 10 changes the WFD = OFF mode to the WFD = ON mode.

  After changing from WFD = OFF mode to WFD = ON mode, the processing executed up to the printing processing is the processing until printing processing is executed after S10 and S12 are determined as NO in the eighth situation. It is similar. When the printing process is completed, the MFP 10 changes the WFD = ON mode to the WFD = OFF mode when determining that the external apparatus does not currently belong to the newly constructed WFD network (NO in S23). According to this configuration, when the external apparatus does not belong to the WFD network after the communication of the print data, it is possible to appropriately change the WFD = ON mode to the WFD = OFF mode.

  According to this configuration, the MFP 10 can construct a WFD network operating in either the G / O state or the client state with the portable terminal 50. Thereby, the MFP 10 can appropriately execute the communication of the print data with the portable terminal 50.

(Correspondence relationship)
The processes of S15 to S18 and the processes of S52 to S62 in FIG. 11 are an example of the “specifying process”.

Fourth Embodiment
Points different from the first embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, the communication process of FIG. 14 is executed instead of the communication process of FIG. S2 to S24 of FIG. 14 are the same as the processes of S2 to S24 of FIG. If NO in S8, that is, if the MFP 10 is not set to WFD = ON mode, in S76, the determination unit 42 determines whether the MFP 10 currently belongs to a normal Wi-Fi network. When the information indicating that the information currently belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network is stored in work area 38, determination unit 42 determines that MFP 10 currently belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network (YES in S76). And proceed to S80. On the other hand, when the information indicating that the determination unit 42 belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network is not stored in the work area 38, the MFP 10 does not currently belong to the normal Wi-Fi network (NO in S76). Judge and proceed to S9.

  If YES in S10, that is, if the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network and operates as a client state in the WFD network, the communication execution unit 44 is stored in the work area 38 in S72. Among the wireless settings of the existing G / O, wireless settings other than the password are transmitted to the portable terminal 50 via the NFC I / F 22, and the process proceeds to S20.

  When the G / O wireless setting is received, the portable terminal 50 allows the user to specify a password. When the password is designated by the user, portable terminal 50 establishes a connection with the device in the G / O state using the wireless setting received from MFP 10 and the password designated by the user. As a result, the portable terminal 50 can wirelessly communicate with the MFP 10 via the device in the G / O state. When the connection between the portable terminal 50 and the device in the G / O state is not established, the MFP 10 can not execute wireless communication with the portable terminal 50. In this case, the control unit 30 returns to S2 without executing the processing of S20 to S24.

  If YES in S12, that is, if the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network and operates as a G / O state in the WFD network, the process proceeds to S13. In S16, the communication execution unit 44 transmits the wireless setting of the MFP 10 stored in the work area 38 to the portable terminal 50 via the NFC I / F 22, and proceeds to S18. The wireless setting of the MFP 10 transmitted in S16 includes a password.

  Further, if it is determined NO in S12, that is, if the MFP 10 is operating in the device state, the determination unit 42 executes the process of S78. The process of S78 is similar to the process of S76. If NO at S78, the process proceeds to S15, and if YES at S78, the process proceeds to S80.

  In S80, the communication execution unit 44 performs the wireless setting for belonging to the normal Wi-Fi network stored in the work area 38, that is, the wireless setting other than the password among the wireless settings of the AP (for example, AP 6). It transmits to the portable terminal 50 via / F22, and it progresses to S20. When the wireless setting of the AP is received, the portable terminal 50 establishes a connection with the AP using the wireless setting received from the MFP 10 and the password designated by the user, as in the case of S72. As a result, the portable terminal 50 can wirelessly communicate with the MFP 10 via the AP. When the connection between the portable terminal 50 and the AP is not established, the MFP 10 can not execute wireless communication with the portable terminal 50. In this case, the control unit 30 returns to S2 without executing the processing of S20 to S24.

(Effect of this embodiment)
The MFP 10 of the fourth embodiment can achieve the same effects as the MFP 10 of the first embodiment in the first, second, fourth, and fifth situations. The effects of the present embodiment in the tenth and eleventh situations will be described with reference to FIGS. In each of FIGS. 15 and 16, processes corresponding to the communication process of FIG. 14 are shown.

(The tenth situation)
In the tenth situation shown in FIG. 15, the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network. The MFP 10 operates in the client state in the WFD network. In the WFD network, the PC 8 in the G / O state currently belongs, but the portable terminal 50 does not currently belong. The portable terminal 50 is similar to the second situation.

  In this situation, when NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, the MFP 10 determines NO in S6 and determines YES in S10, as in the third situation. In S72, the MFP 10 transmits the wireless setting not including the password and the IP address of the MFP 10 among the wireless settings of the PC 8 operating in the G / O state to the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22. Do. According to this configuration, it is not necessary to provide the portable terminal 50 and the user with the password. As a result, when the portable terminal 50 and the user do not know the password for belonging to the WFD network in which the PC 8 operates in the G / O state, the portable terminal 50 is prevented from entering the WFD network. Can.

  When receiving the wireless setting, the portable terminal 50 stores the received wireless setting in the work area 58. Next, the portable terminal 50 causes the display unit of the portable terminal 50 to display a password designation screen. The user can designate a password by operating the operation unit of the portable terminal 50. When the password is designated by the user, the portable terminal 50 establishes a WFD connection with the PC 8. Thus, the portable terminal 50 can belong to the WFD network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. The portable terminal 50 operates as a client state in the WFD network.

  In the modification, the portable terminal 50 may store the wireless setting used to belong to the network in the past in the memory of the portable terminal 50. In this case, when the portable terminal 50 receives the wireless setting not including the password, the portable terminal 50 may specify, from the memory of the portable terminal 50, the wireless setting including the same SSID as the SSID included in the received wireless setting. Then, the mobile terminal 50 may establish a WFD connection with the PC 8 using the wireless setting specified from the memory of the mobile terminal 50.

  If the portable terminal 50 belongs to the WFD network, the print data is executed by executing the wireless communication via the PC 8 using the wireless setting stored in the work area 58 and the IP address of the MFP 10 received in S72. Is sent to the MFP 10. When the MFP 10 receives print data from the PC 8 using the wireless LAN I / F 20 (S20), the MFP 10 causes the print execution unit 16 to execute print processing when print data is received.

  According to this configuration, when the MFP 10 does not belong to the same network as the portable terminal 50, the MFP 10 appropriately executes communication of print data with the portable terminal 50 via the WFD network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. Can.

(The eleventh situation)
In an eleventh situation shown in FIG. 16, the MFP 10 currently belongs to a normal Wi-Fi network. The MFP 10 is connected to the AP 6 in a normal Wi-Fi network. The portable terminal 50 is similar to the second situation.

  In this situation, when NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22, in S6, the MFP 10 belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. It is judged that it is not (NO in S6). Further, in S8, the MFP 10 determines that WFD = OFF mode is set (NO in S8). Subsequently, in S76, the MFP 10 determines that it currently belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network (YES in S76). In this case, in S80, the MFP 10 transmits, to the portable terminal 50, among the wireless settings of the AP 6 stored in the work area 38, the wireless settings not including the password and the IP address of the MFP 10. According to this configuration, it is not necessary to provide the portable terminal 50 and the user with the password. As a result, when the portable terminal 50 and the user do not know the password for belonging to the normal Wi-Fi network in which the AP 6 is used, the portable terminal 50 is prevented from belonging to the normal Wi-Fi network. it can.

  When receiving the wireless setting, the portable terminal 50 receives the wireless setting and causes the user to specify a password, as in the tenth situation. Then, the portable terminal 50 establishes a normal Wi-Fi connection with the AP 6 when a password is designated by the user. Thereby, the portable terminal 50 can belong to the normal Wi-Fi network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. The portable terminal 50 can transmit print data with the MFP 10 via the AP 6. If the portable terminal 50 belongs to a normal Wi-Fi network, the portable terminal 50 executes wireless communication via the AP 6 using the wireless setting stored in the work area 58 and the IP address of the MFP 10 received in S80. Print data is sent to the MFP 10.

  Although not illustrated, even when MFP 10 is currently operating in the device state (Yes in S8, NO in S10 and S12) and MFP 10 belongs to a normal Wi-Fi network (YES in S78), Among the wireless settings of the AP stored in the work area 38, the MFP 10 transmits, to the portable terminal 50, the wireless settings not including the password.

  According to this configuration, when the MFP 10 does not belong to the same network as the portable terminal 50, the MFP 10 appropriately communicates the print data with the portable terminal 50 via the normal Wi-Fi network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. It can be done.

(Correspondence relationship)
The processes of S15 to S18, the process of S72, the processes of S7 to S18, and the process of S80 in FIG. 14 are examples of the “specifying process”. When it is determined YES in S4 of FIG. 14, the WFD network to which the MFP 10 belongs and the normal Wi-Fi network are examples of the “first wireless network”.

Fifth Embodiment
Points different from the first embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, when the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the network, the portable terminal 50 further includes NFC information further including a password, an authentication method, and an encryption method as wireless settings stored in the work area 58. Is sent to the MFP 10.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the communication process of FIG. 17 is executed instead of the communication process of FIG. S2 to S24 of FIG. 17 are the same as the processes of S2 to S24 of FIG. 2. If NO in S4 (ie, if the MFP 10 does not currently belong to the network) or if NO in S6 (ie, if the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 do not belong to the same network), S82. The determination unit 42 determines whether the wireless setting is included in the NFC information received from the portable terminal 52, using the NFC I / F 22. If it is determined that the wireless setting is included (YES in S82), in S83, setting change unnecessary information is transmitted to the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22. Next, in S84, the communication execution unit 44 belongs to the network to which the portable terminal 50 belongs using the wireless setting included in the NFC information, and proceeds to S20.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the wireless setting is not included in the NFC information (NO in S82), the process proceeds to S8.

(Effect of this embodiment)
The MFP 10 of the fifth embodiment can achieve the same effects as those of the MFP 10 of the first embodiment in the first to fifth situations. The effect of this embodiment in the twelfth situation will be described with reference to FIG. Note that FIG. 18 shows a process corresponding to the communication process of FIG.

(12th situation)
In a twelfth situation shown in FIG. 18, MFP 10 does not currently belong to a network, or currently belongs to a network to which portable terminal 50 does not belong. On the other hand, the portable terminal 50 currently belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network to which the AP 6 belongs.

  In this situation, when NFC information is received from the portable terminal 50 via the NFC I / F 22, the MFP 10 determines that the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 do not currently belong to the same network (NO in S4) Or NO at S6). Next, in S82, the MFP 10 determines that the wireless setting for belonging to the network to which the portable terminal 50 currently belongs is included in the NFC information (YES in S82).

  Next, in S83, the MFP 10 transmits setting change unnecessary information to the portable terminal 50 using the NFC I / F 22. When NO in S4 (ie, when the MFP 10 does not currently belong to the network), the MFP 10 transmits setting change unnecessary information including the MAC address of the MFP 10 to the portable terminal 50. If NO in S6 (that is, if the MFP 10 currently belongs to the network but the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 do not belong to the same network), setting change unnecessary information including the IP address of the MFP 10 is It transmits to the portable terminal 50.

  The MFP 10 establishes a normal Wi-Fi connection with the AP 6 using the wireless setting included in the NFC information (S84). When the setting change unnecessary information includes the IP address of the MFP 10, the portable terminal 50 transmits the print data to the MFP 10 via the AP 6 by designating the IP address as a transmission destination (S20). Further, when the setting change unnecessary information includes the MAC address of the MFP 10, the portable terminal 50 specifies the IP address of the MFP 10 according to RARP (abbreviation of Reverse Address Resolution Protocol), and designates the specified IP address as a transmission destination. The print data is transmitted to the MFP 10 via the AP 6 (S20).

  According to this configuration, when the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 do not belong to the same network, the MFP 10 appropriately communicates the print data with the portable terminal 50 via the network to which the portable terminal 50 currently belongs. You can do it.

(Correspondence relationship)
The processes of S15 to S18 of FIG. 17 and the processes of S83 and S84 are examples of the “specifying process”. When it is judged as YES by S82 of FIG. 17, the network to which the portable terminal 50 belongs is an example of the "third wireless network".

Sixth Embodiment
Points different from the fourth embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, the communication process of FIG. 19 is executed instead of the communication process of FIG. In the communication process of FIG. 19, when it is determined as YES in S10, the process of S72 of FIG. 14 is not performed, and the same process as S14 of FIG. 2 is performed.

  According to this configuration, the same effect as that of the third situation can be achieved.

Seventh Embodiment
Points different from the first embodiment will be described. The MFP 10 according to this embodiment includes a wired LAN I / F (not shown) in addition to the I / Fs 20 and 22. In the present embodiment, the communication process of FIG. 20 is executed instead of the communication process of FIG. S2 and S8 to S24 in FIG. 20 are the same as the processes in S2 and S8 to S24 in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 20, when NFC information is received using NFC I / F 22 (YES in S2), determination unit 42 determines in S94 that MFP 10 currently belongs to the wired network using wired LAN I / F. It is further determined whether the MFP 10 currently belongs to the wireless network using the wireless LAN I / F 20. Specifically, when the MFP 10 currently belongs to the wired network, the MFP 10 stores information indicating the current belonging to the wired network in the work area 38 of the memory 34 using the wired LAN I / F. If the information indicating that the work area 38 currently belongs to the wired network is stored in the work area 38, the determination unit 42 determines that the work area 38 currently belongs to the wired network (YES in S94). Further, when the information indicating that the work area 38 currently belongs to the wired network is not stored in the work area 38, the determination unit 42 determines that the work area 38 does not currently belong to the wired network (NO in S94). The determination as to whether the MFP 10 currently belongs to the wireless network is the same as in the first embodiment.

  If it is determined in S94 that the MFP 10 currently belongs to at least one of the wired network and the wireless network (YES in S94), the process proceeds to S96. If it is determined in S4 that the MFP 10 does not belong to any of the wired network and the wireless network (NO in S94), the process proceeds to S8.

  In S96, the control unit 30 can execute communication of the target data with the portable terminal 50 via the network (the wired network or the wireless network) to which the MFP 10 currently belongs, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50. It is determined whether or not it is in the A specific description will be given according to the thirteenth situation of FIG.

  FIG. 21 shows an example in which the MFP 10 is connected to the AP 6 via a wired LAN and the portable terminal 50 is connected to the AP 6 via a normal Wi-Fi network.

  In the sequence diagram of FIG. 21, communication using the wired LAN I / F is further represented by an arrow. An arrow representing communication using the wired LAN I / F is described thicker than an arrow representing wireless communication using the wireless LAN I / F 20.

  The MFP 10 receives the NFC information from the portable terminal 50. The NFC information transmitted from the portable terminal 50 includes the device ID of the portable terminal 50 and the IP address. In S96, the determination unit 42 determines whether the MFP 10 can communicate with the portable terminal 50 via the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs (the wired LAN in the example of FIG. 21). Specifically, the determination unit 42 unicasts the inquiry of the device ID using the wired LAN I / F. The determination unit 42 transmits the inquiry by designating the IP address included in the NFC information as the transmission destination of the inquiry.

  When the portable terminal 50 receives the inquiry via the AP 6, the portable terminal 50 transmits the device ID of the portable terminal 50 to the MFP 10 that is the transmission source of the inquiry. When the determination unit 42 receives the device ID of the portable terminal 50 via the AP 6 using the wired LAN I / F, whether the received device ID matches the device ID included in the NFC information To judge. If the two device IDs match, the determination unit 42 determines YES in S96, and proceeds to S7. On the other hand, when there is no response to the inquiry or the two device IDs do not match, the determination unit 42 determines NO in S96, and proceeds to S8.

  According to this configuration, when the current state of the MFP 10 is a state in which communication with the portable terminal 50 is possible, the MFP 10 executes communication of object data with the portable terminal 50 using the wired LAN I / F. be able to.

  In the first embodiment, it is determined in S6 whether the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 exist in the same network. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, whether or not the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 can communicate is determined in S96 regardless of whether the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 exist in the same network.

(Correspondence relationship)
The wireless LAN I / F The wired LAN I / F is an example of the “second type of interface”. The wired LAN is an example of the “first wireless network”. The device ID included in the NFC information is an example of “terminal identification information”.

  As mentioned above, although the specific example of this invention was described in detail, these are only an illustration and do not limit a claim. The art set forth in the claims includes various variations and modifications of the specific examples described above. Modifications of the above embodiment are listed below.

(Modification)
(1) The “communication device” is not limited to a multi-function device, but is another device (for example, a printer, a fax machine, a copier, a scanner, etc.) having a first type interface and a second type interface It is also good.

(2) The MFP 10 may store an AP program for functioning as an access point. The control unit 30 may store a predetermined wireless setting in the work area 38 when the AP program is activated. For example, in S15 of FIG. 2, the communication execution unit 44 may activate the AP program instead of setting the MFP 10 to the spontaneous G / O mode. Next, the communication execution unit 44 may transmit the wireless setting stored in advance in the work area 38 to the portable terminal 50. Then, the communication execution unit 44 and the portable terminal 50 may establish the connection using the wireless setting stored in advance in the work area 38. In this case, the MFP 10 may establish a normal Wi-Fi connection with the portable terminal 50, and the MFP 10 may establish a normal Wi-Fi network. In the present modification, normal Wi-Fi executed with the portable terminal 50 by the MFP 10 activating the AP program and functioning as an access point is an example of “specific wireless communication”. Further, activation of an AP program, transmission of wireless settings, and establishment of a normal Wi-Fi connection are examples of the “specific processing”.

(3) The combination of the “first type of interface” and the “second type of interface” is not limited to the combination of the NFC I / F and the wireless LAN I / F. For example, when the wireless LAN I / F is adopted as the “second type interface”, the “first type interface” may be an interface for executing infrared communication, or Bluetooth (registered trademark) The interface may be an interface for executing a Transfer Jet, or an interface for executing a Transfer Jet. In addition, when the NFC I / F is adopted as the “first type of interface”, the “second type of interface” may be an interface for executing wired communication, or Bluetooth (registered trademark). It may be an interface for execution. Generally speaking, the communication speed of communication via the second type of interface may be faster than the communication speed of communication via the first type of interface.

(4) The “first type of interface” and the “second type of interface” are physically two interfaces (that is, two separate IC chips) as in the above embodiment. It may be physically one interface (ie, two types of communication can be realized by one IC chip).

(5) In each of the above embodiments, an interface for performing wireless communication according to the WFD scheme and an interface for performing wireless communication according to the normal Wi-Fi are physically one. Interface (wireless LAN I / F 20), but may be physically a plurality of interfaces (that is, two separate IC chips). In the present variation, the plurality of interfaces is an example of the “second type of interface”.

(6) In the first, second, fourth to seventh embodiments, the communication execution unit 44 sets the MFP 10 to the spontaneous G / O mode in S15. However, the communication execution unit 44 may execute the processes of S54 to S62 in FIG. 11 instead of S15 to S18 when the portable terminal 50 can execute the wireless communication according to the WFD method. In the present modification, the processes of S54 to S62 are an example of the “specifying process”.

(7) In the seventh embodiment, the determination unit 42 transmits the device ID inquiry by designating the IP address (that is, the IP address of the portable terminal 50) included in the NFC information as the transmission destination. However, the determination unit 42 may broadcast the inquiry of the device ID via the network (a wired network or a wireless network may be used) to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. In this case, the device ID inquiry may include the device ID included in the NFC information. When the broadcasted inquiry is received, the portable terminal 50 may transmit a response to the inquiry to the MFP 10 that is the transmission source of the inquiry if the device ID included in the inquiry is the device ID of the portable terminal 50. . The MFP 10 may receive a response to the inquiry via the network to which the MFP 10 currently belongs. When the response is received, determination unit 42 may determine that the current state of MFP 10 is in a state in which communication with portable terminal 50 is possible (YES in S6 of FIG. 2). According to this modification, when the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 are in the same subnet, it may be determined YES in S6 of FIG. In the present modification, the determination in S6 is an example of the determination as to whether or not the mobile device currently belongs to the specific network to which the communication device currently belongs, in the MFP 10.

(8) In each of the above embodiments, the units 40 to 46 are realized by software, but at least one of the units 40 to 46 may be realized by hardware such as a logic circuit.

  The technical elements described in the present specification or the drawings exhibit technical usefulness singly or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. In addition, the techniques illustrated in the present specification or the drawings simultaneously achieve a plurality of purposes, and achieving one of the purposes itself has technical utility.

2: communication system, 6: AP, 8: PC, 10: MFP, 20: wireless LAN interface, 22: NFC interface, 30: control unit, 50: portable terminal

Claims (20)

A first type interface for executing communication with a second communication device, and a second type interface for executing communication with the second communication device , wherein the second type interface is used A computer program for a first communication apparatus, comprising: the second type of interface, wherein the communication speed of communication is faster than the communication speed of communication using the first type of interface,
The following processing is performed on a computer mounted on the first communication device:
Reception processing for receiving specific information from the second communication device using the first type of interface;
The first communication device is currently using the second type of interface, and the second communication device and the object via an access point different from the first communication device and the second communication device. whether the communication of data of a executable, a determining process of determining using the specific information,
If it is determined that the first communication device can not currently execute communication of the target data with the second communication device via the access point, the state of the first communication device may be by using the second type of interface, without going through the access point, after performing a specific process for changing the object data communication with said second communication device into executable communication state Communicating the target data with the second communication apparatus without using the access point , using the second type interface;
When it is determined that the first communication device can currently execute communication with the second communication device via the access point , the specific process is not performed. A computer program that executes communication execution processing that executes communication of the second communication device and the target data via the access point using a second type of interface. The determination processing uses the specific information to confirm whether the second communication device currently belongs to a specific network to which the first communication device currently belongs. The computer program according to claim 1, comprising a process of determining whether a first communication device can currently execute communication of the target data with the second communication device via the access point. . The computer program according to claim 2, wherein the specific information includes identification information for identifying the second communication device. The computer program according to claim 3, wherein the identification information is a MAC address of the second communication device. In the determination process,
Sending an inquiry for the identification information via the particular network;
In response to the inquiry about the identification information, when a response including the identification information is received from the second communication device, it is determined that the second communication device currently belongs to the specific network. ,
5. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, when a response is not received from the second communication device in response to the inquiry about the identification information, it is determined that the second communication device does not currently belong to the specific network. The computer program described in. The computer program according to claim 5, wherein the inquiry of the identification information is unicast. The computer program according to claim 5, wherein the inquiry of the identification information is a broadcast. The first type of interface is an interface for performing wireless communication according to the NFC (abbreviation of Near Field Communication) method,
The second type of interface is an interface for performing wireless communication according to a scheme defined in a scheme compliant with IEEE (abbreviation of The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.) 802.11. The computer program according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The first type of interface is an interface for performing wireless communication according to the Bluetooth (registered trademark) system,
The second type of interface is an interface for performing wireless communication according to a scheme defined in a scheme compliant with IEEE (abbreviation of The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.) 802.11. The computer program according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The computer program according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first communication device is a printer or a scanner. A first communication device,
A first type of interface for performing communication with a second communication device;
A second type interface for executing communication with the second communication device, wherein a communication speed of communication using the second type interface is a communication speed of communication using the first type interface Said second type of interface, which is faster than
And a control unit,
The control unit
A receiving unit that receives specific information from the second communication device using the first type of interface;
The first communication device is currently using the second type of interface, and the second communication device and the object via an access point different from the first communication device and the second communication device. A determination unit that determines whether communication of data can be performed using the specific information;
If it is determined that the first communication device can not currently execute communication of the target data with the second communication device via the access point, the state of the first communication device is After performing a specific process for changing the communication of the target data with the second communication device to an executable communicable state without using the access point, using the second type interface. Communication of the target data with the second communication device is performed using the second type of interface without passing through the access point,
When it is determined that the first communication device can currently execute communication with the second communication device via the access point, the specific process is not performed. A first communication apparatus, comprising: a communication execution unit that executes communication of the second communication apparatus and the target data via the access point using a second type of interface. The determination unit determines whether the second communication apparatus currently belongs to a specific network to which the first communication apparatus currently belongs, using the specific information. The first communication device according to claim 11, wherein it is determined whether the first communication device can currently communicate with the second communication device via the access point. The first communication device according to claim 12, wherein the specific information includes identification information for identifying the second communication device. The first communication device according to claim 13, wherein the identification information is a MAC address of the second communication device. The judgment unit
Sending an inquiry for the identification information via the particular network;
In response to the inquiry about the identification information, when a response including the identification information is received from the second communication device, it is determined that the second communication device currently belongs to the specific network. ,
The communication device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, when a response is not received from the second communication device in response to the inquiry about the identification information, it is determined that the second communication device does not currently belong to the specific network. The first communication device according to The first communication device according to claim 15, wherein the inquiry of the identification information is unicast. The first communication device according to claim 15, wherein the inquiry of the identification information is a broadcast. The first type of interface is an interface for performing wireless communication according to the NFC (abbreviation of Near Field Communication) method,
The second type of interface is an interface for performing wireless communication according to a scheme defined in a scheme compliant with IEEE (abbreviation of The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.) 802.11. The first communication device according to any one of claims 11 to 17. The first type of interface is an interface for performing wireless communication according to the Bluetooth (registered trademark) system,
The second type of interface is an interface for performing wireless communication according to a scheme defined in a scheme compliant with IEEE (abbreviation of The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.) 802.11. The first communication device according to any one of claims 11 to 17. 20. The first communication device according to any one of claims 11 to 19, wherein the first communication device is a printer or a scanner.

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