JP6610206B2 - Electronic device, terminal, wireless communication system, wireless communication method, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic device, a terminal, a wireless communication system, a wireless communication method, and a program.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a smartphone that selects a communication path used for communication with a multi-function printer from a plurality of communication paths in accordance with a selection condition designating communication cost priority or service priority.

JP 2014-197741 A

  Recent printers have various connection forms as connection forms using a wireless LAN. For example, Wi-Fi connection (infrastructure mode) in which the printer communicates with an external device via an AP (Access Point), and direct connection (Wi-Fi) in which the printer performs wireless communication with one external device in a peer-to-peer manner. Direct mode), direct connection in which a printer as an AP performs wireless communication with each of a plurality of external devices in a peer-to-peer (soft AP mode), and the like.

  It is difficult for a user to select a desired connection form from the plurality of connection forms as described above and establish a communication connection without some help. The smartphone of Patent Literature 1 selects a communication path according to a selection condition that specifies communication cost priority or service priority. However, the smartphone cannot select the connection form desired by the user.

  An object of the present invention is to assist the selection of a wireless communication connection form easily.

  One aspect of the present invention for solving the above-described problem is an electronic device, which includes a short-range wireless communication unit, a wireless communication unit that provides wireless communication in a plurality of different connection forms, and a user requested connection form. If the first connection form corresponding to the requested connection form indicated by the request information is valid and received from the terminal via the short-range wireless communication unit A response processing unit that transmits first setting information for wireless connection with the wireless communication unit to the terminal via the short-range wireless communication unit, and the wireless communication unit includes the terminal and the Communication is performed in the first connection form. Thus, the user can select a desired connection form and easily establish a communication connection using the connection form.

  In the above electronic device, the response processing unit may include second setting information for wirelessly connecting to the wireless communication unit using another effective second connection form when the first connection form is invalid. May be transmitted to the terminal, and the wireless communication unit may communicate with the terminal in the second connection form. Accordingly, even when the desired connection form is invalid, the user can easily establish a communication connection with another valid connection form.

  In the above electronic device, the first connection form is a connection form for communicating with the terminal in a peer-to-peer manner, and includes a connection processing unit that performs a connection process for the communication with the terminal in the first connection form. Good. Accordingly, the electronic device can establish a communication connection when a peer-to-peer connection is requested from the terminal.

  In the electronic device, the short-range wireless communication unit is a communication tag having a storage unit that can write the request information from the terminal when the electronic device is in a power-off state, and from the power-off state of the electronic device. When the request information is stored in the storage unit during the activation process, a connection processing unit that validates the first connection form may be included. Thus, the user can validate the desired connection form by turning on the electronic device.

  In the electronic device described above, the communication in the first connection form can establish a predetermined number of simultaneous connections, and the short-range wireless communication unit can identify the terminal identification information when the electronic device is in a power-off state. And the request information can be written from the terminal, and the identification information and the request information are stored in the storage unit during the startup process from the power-off state of the electronic device. A connection processing unit that reserves one of the predetermined number of simultaneous connections for the identification information. Thus, the user can reserve communication in the desired connection form, and can reliably communicate in the desired connection form when the electronic device is turned on.

  In the above electronic device, the short-range wireless communication unit is a communication tag, and the plurality of connection forms include a connection form for communicating with the terminal via an access point, and a connection form for communicating with the terminal peer-to-peer. May be included. Thereby, the user can easily select the connection form via the access point or the peer-to-peer connection form via the communication tag.

  Another aspect of the present invention for solving the above problem is a terminal, which is a short-range wireless communication unit, a wireless communication unit that provides wireless communication of a plurality of different connection forms, and the wireless communication unit. Request information indicating the requested connection form of the user related to the communication is transmitted to the electronic device via the short-range wireless communication unit, and wirelessly connected to the electronic device by the first connection form corresponding to the requested connection form Using the request processing unit that receives the first setting information from the electronic device via the short-range wireless communication unit and the received first setting information. A connection processing unit that performs connection processing. Thus, the user can select a desired connection form and easily establish a communication connection using the connection form.

  In the above terminal, when the first connection form is valid, the request processing unit receives the first setting information, the first connection form is invalid, and the second connection form is valid. And receiving the second setting information for wireless connection with the electronic device according to the second connection form, and the connection processing unit receives the second setting information when the second setting information is received. The communication connection process may be performed using the second setting information. Accordingly, even when the desired connection form is invalid, the user can easily establish a communication connection with another valid connection form.

  In the terminal, the connection processing unit is configured to select whether to use the second connection form when the first connection form is invalid and the second connection form is valid. Display a screen, accept a selection operation from the user, and perform the communication connection process using the second setting information when the selection operation using the second connection form is accepted. Also good. Thus, even when the desired connection form is invalid, the user can select another valid connection form when desired, and can easily establish a communication connection with the connection form.

  In the terminal, when the request processing unit receives an error response from the electronic device via the short-range wireless communication unit, the request processing unit transmits the request information to the electronic device via the short-range wireless communication unit. You may write on the tag. Thus, the user can validate the desired connection form by turning on the electronic device.

  In the above terminal, when the request processing unit receives an error response from the electronic device via the short-range wireless communication unit, and the requested connection form is a predetermined connection form, the identification information of the terminal May be written in the communication tag. Thus, the user can reserve communication in the desired connection form, and can reliably communicate in the desired connection form when the electronic device is turned on.

  In the above terminal, when the request processing unit receives an error response from the electronic device via the short-range wireless communication unit, the request processing unit may notify the user that the electronic device needs to be turned on. Thereby, the user can know the reason why the terminal cannot connect to the electronic device.

  Still another aspect of the present invention for solving the above-described problem is a wireless communication system including a terminal and an electronic device, wherein the terminal has a first short-range wireless communication unit and a plurality of different connection forms. Request information indicating a request connection form of a user related to communication via the first wireless communication unit and a first wireless communication unit that provides wireless communication is transmitted to the electronic device via the first short-range wireless communication unit. First setting information to be transmitted to the device and wirelessly connected to the electronic device according to the first connection form corresponding to the requested connection form is transmitted from the electronic device via the first short-range wireless communication unit. A request processing unit for receiving, and a first connection processing unit for performing connection processing of communication of the first connection form using the received first setting information, and the electronic device includes: A second short-range wireless communication unit and a plurality of different connections; A second wireless communication unit that provides wireless communication in a form, and the request information is received from the terminal via the second short-range wireless communication unit, and corresponds to the requested connection form indicated by the request information A response processing unit that transmits the first setting information to the terminal via the second short-range wireless communication unit when the first connection form is valid; and the wireless communication The unit communicates with the terminal in the first connection form. Thus, the user can select a desired connection form and easily establish a communication connection using the connection form.

  Still another aspect of the present invention for solving the above problem is a wireless communication method of a wireless communication system including a terminal and an electronic device, wherein the terminal includes a first short-range wireless communication unit, a plurality of A first wireless communication unit that provides wireless communication of a different connection form, and the electronic device provides a second short-range wireless communication unit and a second wireless communication of a plurality of different connection forms A wireless communication unit, and the terminal sends request information indicating a request connection form of a user related to communication via the first wireless communication unit via the first short-range wireless communication unit. And the electronic device receives the request information from the terminal via the second short-range wireless communication unit, and corresponds to the request connection form indicated by the request information. When the connection form is valid, the first Transmitting the first setting information to the terminal via the second short-range wireless communication unit for wirelessly connecting to the second wireless communication unit according to a continuation mode; and Receiving setting information from the electronic device via the first short-range wireless communication unit; and the terminal uses the received first setting information to communicate in the first connection form. Performing the connection process. Thus, the user can select a desired connection form and easily establish a communication connection using the connection form.

  Still another aspect of the present invention for solving the above-described problem is a program for a terminal having a short-range wireless communication unit and a wireless communication unit that provides wireless communication of a plurality of different connection forms. Request information indicating a user's requested connection mode related to communication via the communication unit is transmitted to the electronic device via the short-range wireless communication unit, and wirelessly communicates with the electronic device according to the first connection mode corresponding to the request connection mode. Using the request processing unit that receives the first setting information for connection from the electronic device via the short-range wireless communication unit, and the received first setting information, The terminal is caused to function as a connection processing unit that performs communication connection processing. Thus, the user can select a desired connection form and easily establish a communication connection using the connection form.

It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the radio | wireless communications system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of a radio | wireless communications system. It is a flowchart (the 1) which shows an example of a request process of a terminal. It is a flowchart (the 2) which shows an example of a request process of a terminal. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of response processing of a printer. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of printer activation processing. It is a figure which shows an example of an operation screen. It is a figure which shows the other example of an operation screen. It is a figure which shows the further another example of an operation screen. It is a figure which shows the further another example of an operation screen.

  An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a configuration example of a wireless communication system. The wireless communication system 1 includes one or more terminals 10 and one printer 20 (corresponding to the “electronic device” of the present invention). The terminal 10 is an electronic device such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, or a mobile PC (Personal Computer). The terminal 10 and the printer 20 can communicate by wireless connection via a wireless LAN (Local Area Network).

For easy understanding, the wireless LAN of the present embodiment uses the following two connection forms.
(N1) Wi-Fi connection in which the terminal 10 and the printer 20 communicate wirelessly via an AP 30 (Access Point) (infrastructure mode, hereinafter referred to as “Wi-Fi connection”)
(N2) Direct connection in which the printer 20 and each of the one or more terminals 10 communicate wirelessly by peer-to-peer via the AP included in the printer 20 (soft AP mode, hereinafter referred to as “direct connection”)

  The terminal 10 can wirelessly connect to and communicate with the printer 20 using either a Wi-Fi connection or a direct connection. The printer 20 can wirelessly connect to and communicate with each terminal 10 using either a Wi-Fi connection or a direct connection. The printer 20 may be able to establish both Wi-Fi connection and direct connection at the same time. That is, the printer 20 may be able to communicate with a certain terminal 10 via a Wi-Fi connection while communicating with another terminal 10 via a direct connection. In the direct connection, the printer 20 can establish a communication connection within a predetermined number of simultaneous connections (for example, four).

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a wireless communication system.

  The terminal 10 includes a control unit 11, an operation unit 12, an NFC (Near Field Communication) communication unit 13 (corresponding to the “near field communication unit” of the present invention), and a radio communication unit 14 (“wireless” of the present invention). And a mobile communication unit 15. The control unit 11 includes a request processing unit 111 and a connection processing unit 112.

  The control unit 11 controls the operation of the terminal 10 in an integrated manner. The control unit 11 includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) that is an arithmetic device, a random access memory (RAM) that is a volatile storage device, a read only memory (ROM) that is a non-volatile storage device, It can be realized by a computer including an interface (I / F) circuit that connects other units, a bus that connects these units to each other, and the like. The computer may include various dedicated processing circuits such as an image processing circuit. The control unit 11 may be realized by an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or the like.

  At least a part of the functions of the control unit 11 can be realized, for example, by the CPU reading a predetermined program stored in the ROM and executing it. The predetermined program is, for example, an application program that runs on an OS (Operating System), which is read from a portable storage medium and installed in the terminal 10, or downloaded from a server on the network and installed in the terminal 10. can do. At least a part of the function of the control unit 11 may be realized by a dedicated processing circuit, for example. At least a part of the function of the control unit 11 may be realized by both the CPU and the dedicated processing circuit, for example.

  The operation unit 12 receives a user operation input and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the operation to the control unit 11. The operation unit 12 displays the processing results of the control unit 11 as characters, graphs, tables, animations, and other images. The operation unit 12 includes, for example, an input unit or input device including a key, a touch sensor, a touch panel, and the like, and an output unit or output device including, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OLED (Organic Electro-Luminescence Display), or the like. Can be realized.

  The NFC communication unit 13 is a reader / writer (also referred to as an NFC reader / writer) that performs communication based on the NFC standard. When the NFC communication unit 13 comes close to an NFC tag that is not supplied with power, the NFC communication unit 13 can operate by supplying power to the NFC tag by electromagnetic induction.

  The NFC communication unit 13 includes, for example, an antenna, a memory (corresponding to the “storage unit” of the present invention), and a logic circuit, and performs short-range wireless communication. The antenna transmits and receives signals compliant with the NFC standard. The logic circuit writes data into the memory or reads data from the memory in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 11. In addition, the logic circuit transmits / receives data to / from the NFC tag via the antenna in response to an instruction from the control unit 11. The logic circuit writes data to the NFC tag and reads data from the NFC tag (for example, called an RF communication mode). The logic circuit can also control bidirectional communication between the host device equipped with the NFC tag and the reader / writer via the NFC tag (for example, called tunnel mode). Since the NFC reader / writer and its various communication modes can be realized using existing technology, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The control unit 11 can bidirectionally communicate with the printer 20 via the NFC communication unit 13 (tunnel mode). When the printer 20 is in the power-off state, the control unit 11 receives an error response from the NFC communication unit 23 via the NFC communication unit 13. Further, the control unit 11 can write data to the NFC communication unit 23 or read data from the NFC communication unit 23 via the NFC communication unit 13 (RF communication mode).

  The wireless communication unit 14 is a communication module in which a communication function compliant with the Wi-Fi standard and the Wi-Fi Direct standard, which are wireless LAN standards, is mounted. The control unit 11 can establish the Wi-Fi connection and the direct connection described above with the external device via the wireless communication unit 14, and can communicate with the external device. Since Wi-Fi connection and direct connection can be realized using existing technology, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The mobile communication unit 15 is a communication module that performs communication via a mobile phone line. The mobile phone line complies with communication standards such as 3G and 4G, for example.

  The request processing unit 111 communicates with the printer 20 including the NFC communication unit 23 via the NFC communication unit 13. For example, the request processing unit 111 receives a requested connection form from the user, and transmits request information including the requested connection form to the printer 20. For example, the request processing unit 111 receives response information corresponding to the request information from the printer 20. The processing of the request processing unit 111 will be described in detail later.

  The requested connection form is a connection form desired by the user between the terminal 10 and the printer 20. The request information includes, for example, an identifier indicating the type of connection form (Wi-Fi connection or direct connection). The response information includes an identifier of a valid connection form (Wi-Fi connection or direct connection) of the printer 20 and setting information (SSID, password, etc. used for connection) of the valid connection form. Note that “valid” means that it is ready to establish a communication connection in response to a connection request from an external device. “Invalid” means that it is not ready to establish a communication connection in response to a connection request from an external device.

  The connection processing unit 112 controls the wireless communication unit 14 to perform communication connection processing according to the content of the received response information. For example, when the connection form corresponding to the requested connection form is valid, the connection processing unit 112 establishes a communication connection according to the connection form using the received setting information. Thereby, the terminal 10 and the printer 20 can perform communication according to the requested connection form. For example, when the connection form corresponding to the requested connection form is invalid, the connection processing unit 112 uses the received setting information of the other valid connection form to establish a communication connection according to the other connection form. The processing of the connection processing unit 112 will be described in detail later.

  The printer 20 includes a control unit 21, an operation unit 22, an NFC communication unit 23 (corresponding to the “short-range wireless communication unit” of the present invention), and a wireless communication unit 24 (corresponding to the “wireless communication unit” of the present invention). And a printing unit 25. The control unit 21 includes a response processing unit 211 and a connection processing unit 212.

  The control unit 21 controls the operation of the printer 20 in an integrated manner. The control unit 21 includes, for example, a CPU that is an arithmetic device, a RAM that is a volatile storage device, a ROM that is a non-volatile storage device, an interface circuit that connects the control unit 21 and other units, and a bus that connects these units to each other. , Etc., can be realized by a computer. The control unit 21 may include various processing circuits such as an image processing circuit. The control unit 21 may be realized by an ASIC or the like.

  At least a part of the functions of the control unit 21 can be realized, for example, by the CPU reading a predetermined program stored in the ROM and executing it. The predetermined program can be read from a portable storage medium and installed in the printer 20, for example, or downloaded from a server on the network and installed in the printer 20. At least a part of the function of the control unit 21 may be realized by a dedicated processing circuit, for example. At least a part of the functions of the control unit 21 may be realized by both the CPU and the processing circuit, for example.

  The operation unit 22 receives a user operation input and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the operation to the control unit 21. The operation unit 22 displays the processing result of the control unit 21 as characters, graphs, tables, animations, and other images. The operation unit 22 can be realized by an input unit or input device including a key, a touch sensor, a touch panel, and the like, and an output unit or output device including, for example, an LCD or an OLED.

  The NFC communication unit 23 is a communication tag (also referred to as an NFC tag) that performs communication based on the NFC standard. Even when power is not supplied from the printer 20, the NFC communication unit 23 can operate because power is supplied by electromagnetic induction from an NFC reader / writer approaching the NFC communication unit 23.

  The NFC communication unit 23 includes, for example, an antenna, a memory (corresponding to the “storage unit” of the present invention), and a logic circuit, and performs short-range wireless communication. The antenna transmits and receives signals compliant with the NFC standard. The logic circuit writes data into the memory, reads data from the memory, and outputs it according to an instruction from the NFC reader / writer of the external device (terminal 10) via the antenna (for example, called an RF communication mode) ). In addition, the logic circuit writes data into the memory or reads and outputs data from the memory in accordance with an instruction from the host device (control unit 21) (referred to as a serial communication mode, for example). The logic circuit can also control bidirectional communication between the external device and the host device (for example, called tunnel mode). Since the NFC tag and its various communication modes can be realized using existing technology, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The control unit 21 can bidirectionally communicate with the terminal 10 via the NFC communication unit 23 (tunnel mode). When the printer 20 is in the power-off state, the NFC communication unit 23 cannot communicate with the control unit 21 and therefore may respond with an error to the terminal 10. The control unit 21 can write data to the NFC communication unit 23 and read data from the NFC communication unit 23 (serial communication mode).

  The wireless communication unit 24 is a communication module in which a communication function based on the Wi-Fi standard and the Wi-Fi Direct standard, which are wireless LAN standards, is mounted. The control unit 21 can establish the Wi-Fi connection and the direct connection described above with the external device via the wireless communication unit 24 and can communicate with the external device. Since Wi-Fi connection and direct connection can be realized using existing technology, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The printing unit 25 forms an image on the print medium in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 21. The printing unit 25 is, for example, a printing engine of an ink jet method, a laser method, or the like, and includes a mechanical part, a sensor, a motor, a drive circuit, a control circuit, and the like.

  The response processing unit 211 communicates with the terminal 10 including the NFC communication unit 13 via the NFC communication unit 23. For example, the response processing unit 211 receives request information from the terminal 10, generates response information based on the request connection form included in the request information and the state of each connection form of the printer 20, and transmits the response information to the terminal 10. To do. The processing of the response processing unit 211 will be described in detail later.

  The connection processing unit 212 controls the wireless communication unit 24 to perform communication connection connection processing in response to a connection request from an external device for an effective connection mode. The processing of the connection processing unit 212 will be described in detail later.

  Operations of the terminal 10 and the printer 20 will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart (part 1) illustrating an example of request processing of a terminal. FIG. 4 is a flowchart (part 2) illustrating an example of a request process of the terminal. The process of this flowchart is started when a predetermined application program is started in the terminal 10, for example.

  The terminal 10 tries to establish a bidirectional communication connection with the printer 20 via NFC (step S100). For example, the user holds the NFC communication unit 13 of the terminal 10 over the NFC communication unit 23 of the printer 20. The control unit 11 attempts communication with the control unit 21 via the NFC communication unit 13 and the NFC communication unit 23 (tunnel mode). When the control unit 21 is in the power-on state, the control unit 21 transmits a response indicating that the operation is normal to the control unit 11 of the terminal 10 via the NFC communication unit 23. When the control unit 21 is in the power-off state, the NFC communication unit 23 transmits a response indicating an error to the control unit 11 of the terminal 10.

  Next, the control unit 11 of the terminal 10 determines whether or not a connection for bidirectional communication with the printer 20 is established via NFC (step S101). For example, when a normal response is received from the control unit 21 in step S100, it is determined that a bidirectional communication connection has been established. If a response indicating an error is received in step S100, it is determined that a two-way communication connection has not been established.

  If it is determined that a connection for bidirectional communication has been established (step S101: Y), the terminal 10 transmits request information (step S102). For example, the request processing unit 111 acquires a requested connection form (Wi-Fi connection or direct connection) stored in a storage unit such as a RAM of the terminal 10. For example, the request processing unit 111 can receive a selection of a requested connection form from the user via the operation unit 12 and store it in the storage unit. The request processing unit 111 generates request information including the acquired identifier of the requested connection form, and transmits the request information to the control unit 21 of the printer 20 via the NFC communication unit 13 and the NFC communication unit 23.

  The terminal 10 receives the response information (Step S103). For example, the request processing unit 111 receives response information in response to the request information transmitted in step S102 from the control unit 21 of the printer 20 via the NFC communication unit 13 and the NFC communication unit 23.

The response information is generated by the control unit 11 of the printer 20 as will be described later. The response information includes the following information depending on the situation.
When the first connection form (Wi-Fi connection or direct connection) corresponding to the requested connection form (Wi-Fi connection or direct connection) is valid, the response information includes the identifier of the first connection form, and the first 1st setting information (SSID, password, etc.) of one connection form is included.
When the first connection form is invalid and the second connection form different from the requested connection form is valid, the response information includes the identifier of the second connection form and the second connection form 2 setting information (SSID, password, etc.).
When both the first connection form and the second connection form are invalid, the response information includes information indicating that all the connection forms are invalid.

  The control unit 11 executes the processes in steps S110 to S120 based on the requested connection form acquired in S102 and the content of the response information received in step S103.

  The connection processing unit 112 determines whether the requested connection form is Wi-Fi connection or direct connection (step S110).

  When it is determined that the requested connection form is Wi-Fi connection (step S110: Y), the connection processing unit 112 refers to the response information and determines whether the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is valid (response) It is determined whether or not the information includes a Wi-Fi connection identifier (step S111). When it is determined that the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S111: Y), the connection processing unit 112 uses the Wi-Fi connection setting information included in the response information, and the wireless communication unit 14 and the AP 30. Is established (step S112), and the processing of this flowchart ends. In this way, the terminal 10 and the printer 20 can communicate with each other by Wi-Fi connection via the AP 30.

  When it is determined that the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is not valid (step S111: N), the connection processing unit 112 refers to the response information to determine whether the direct connection of the printer 20 is valid (the response information is It is determined whether or not a direct connection identifier is included (step S113). When it is determined that the direct connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S113: Y), the connection processing unit 112 recommends direct connection to the user (step S114). For example, the connection processing unit 112 causes the operation unit 12 to display an operation screen 500 as illustrated in FIG. 7 (a diagram illustrating an example of the operation screen). The operation screen 500 displays a message recommending direct connection instead of Wi-Fi connection. The operation screen 500 also includes a button 501 for selecting direct connection and a button 502 for ending the connection process. When the connection processing unit 112 receives an operation on the button 501 via the operation unit 12, the connection processing unit 112 uses the direct connection setting information included in the response information to establish a direct connection between the wireless communication unit 14 and the printer 20. Established, and the process of this flowchart ends. In this way, the terminal 10 and the printer 20 can communicate by direct connection. When the connection processing unit 112 receives an operation for the button 502 via the operation unit 12, the connection processing unit 112 ends the processing of this flowchart.

  When it is determined that the direct connection of the printer 20 is not valid (step S113: N), the connection processing unit 112 notifies the necessity of a setting operation for validating the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 (step S115). For example, the connection processing unit 112 causes the operation unit 12 to display an operation screen 510 as illustrated in FIG. 8 (a diagram illustrating another example of the operation screen). The operation screen 510 displays a message that informs the necessity of validating the Wi-Fi connection. The operation screen 510 also includes a button 511 for ending the connection process. When the connection processing unit 112 receives an operation for the button 511 via the operation unit 12, the connection processing unit 112 ends the processing of this flowchart.

  When it is determined that the requested connection form is direct connection (step S110: N), the connection processing unit 112 refers to the response information to determine whether the direct connection of the printer 20 is valid (response information is direct connection). Whether or not an identifier is included) is determined (step S116). When it is determined that the direct connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S116: Y), the connection processing unit 112 uses the direct connection setting information included in the response information to establish a connection between the wireless communication unit 14 and the printer 20. The direct connection is established, and the processing of this flowchart ends. In this way, the terminal 10 and the printer 20 can communicate by direct connection.

  When it is determined that the direct connection of the printer 20 is not valid (step S116: N), the connection processing unit 112 refers to the response information and determines whether the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is valid (the response information is It is determined whether or not a Wi-Fi connection identifier is included (step S118). When it is determined that the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S118: Y), the connection processing unit 112 recommends the Wi-Fi connection to the user (step S119). For example, the connection processing unit 112 causes the operation unit 12 to display an operation screen 520 as illustrated in FIG. 9 (a diagram illustrating still another example of the operation screen). The operation screen 520 displays a message recommending Wi-Fi connection instead of direct connection. The operation screen 520 includes a button 521 for selecting Wi-Fi connection and a button 522 for ending the connection process. When the connection processing unit 112 receives an operation on the button 521 via the operation unit 12, the connection processing unit 112 uses the Wi-Fi connection setting information included in the response information, and the Wi− between the wireless communication unit 14 and the AP 30. Fi connection is established, and the processing of this flowchart ends. In this way, the terminal 10 and the printer 20 can communicate with each other by Wi-Fi connection via the AP 30. When the connection processing unit 112 receives an operation for the button 522 via the operation unit 12, the connection processing unit 112 ends the processing of this flowchart.

  If it is determined that the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is not valid (step S118: N), the connection processing unit 112 notifies the necessity of a setting operation for validating the direct connection of the printer 20 (step S120). For example, the connection processing unit 112 causes the operation unit 12 to display an operation screen 530 as illustrated in FIG. 10 (a diagram illustrating still another example of the operation screen). The operation screen 530 displays a message notifying the necessity of enabling direct connection. The operation screen 530 includes a button 531 for ending the connection process. When the connection processing unit 112 receives an operation on the button 531 via the operation unit 12, the connection processing unit 112 ends the processing of this flowchart.

  When it is determined that a connection for bidirectional communication has not been established (step S101: N), the request processing unit 111 determines whether the requested connection form is a direct connection or a Wi-Fi connection (step S130). ).

  When it is determined that the requested connection form is direct connection (step S130: Y), the request processing unit 111 transmits request information and identification information (step S131). For example, the request processing unit 111 acquires identification information such as a MAC address of the wireless communication unit 14 used for direct connection, which is stored in a storage unit such as a RAM of the terminal 10. The request processing unit 111 generates request information including a requested connection form (direct connection). In addition, the request processing unit 111 writes the request information and the identification information in the memory of the NFC communication unit 23 via the NFC communication unit 13 (RF communication mode). As will be described later, the control unit 21 of the printer 20 reads the request information and the identification information from the NFC communication unit 23 during the startup process from the power-off state, and the number of simultaneous connections (for example, four) of the direct connection is not yet determined. Reserve one from the number of connections used.

  Further, the request processing unit 111 causes the operation unit 12 to display an operation screen informing the necessity of power-on of the printer 20 and reservation for direct connection (step S132), and ends the processing of this flowchart.

  When it is determined that the requested connection form is Wi-Fi connection (step S130: N), the request processing unit 111 causes the operation unit 12 to display an operation screen informing the necessity of power-on of the printer 20 (step S133). Then, the process of this flowchart ends.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of response processing of the printer. This flowchart is executed when the printer 20 is in a power-on state.

  The printer 20 establishes a bidirectional communication connection with the terminal 10 via NFC (step S200). For example, the user holds the NFC communication unit 13 of the terminal 10 over the NFC communication unit 23 of the printer 20. The control unit 21 communicates with the control unit 11 via the NFC communication unit 23 and the NFC communication unit 13 (tunnel mode). Further, the printer 20 receives the request information (step S201). For example, the response processing unit 211 receives request information from the control unit 11 via the NFC communication unit 23. Further, the printer 20 acquires the state of the connection form of the printer 20 (step S202). For example, the response processing unit 211 acquires the state (valid or invalid) of each connection form (Wi-Fi connection and direct connection) that can be provided by the wireless communication unit 24 stored in the storage unit such as the RAM of the printer 20. To do.

  The control unit 21 executes the processes of steps S210 to S220 based on the requested connection form received in step S201 and the state of the connection form acquired in step S202.

  The response processing unit 211 determines whether the requested connection form is Wi-Fi connection or direct connection (step S210).

  When it is determined that the requested connection form is Wi-Fi connection (step S210: Y), the response processing unit 211 determines whether the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S211). When it is determined that the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S211: Y), the response processing unit 211 generates response information including an identifier of the Wi-Fi connection and setting information of the Wi-Fi connection. The response information is transmitted to the control unit 11 via the NFC communication unit 23 (S212). And the response process part 211 complete | finishes the process of this flowchart.

  When the terminal 10 establishes a Wi-Fi connection with the AP 30 in step S112 in FIG. 3, the terminal 10 and the printer 20 can communicate with each other through the Wi-Fi connection via the AP 30.

  When it is determined that the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is not valid (step S211: N), the response processing unit 211 determines whether the direct connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S213). When it is determined that the direct connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S213: Y), the response processing unit 211 generates response information including a direct connection identifier and direct connection setting information. It transmits to the control part 11 via the NFC communication part 23 (S214). And the response process part 211 complete | finishes the process of this flowchart.

  When the terminal 10 attempts a direct connection with the printer 20 in step S114 of FIG. 3, the connection processing unit 212 establishes a direct connection between the wireless communication unit 24 and the terminal 10.

  If it is determined that the direct connection of the printer 20 is not valid (step S213: N), the response processing unit 211 generates response information including information indicating that all connection forms are invalid, and the response information is It transmits to the control part 11 via the NFC communication part 23 (S215). And the response process part 211 complete | finishes the process of this flowchart.

  When it is determined that the requested connection form is direct connection (step S210: N), the response processing unit 211 determines whether or not the direct connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S216). When it is determined that the direct connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S216: Y), the response processing unit 211 generates response information including a direct connection identifier and direct connection setting information, and the response information is It transmits to the control part 11 via the NFC communication part 23 (S217). And the response process part 211 complete | finishes the process of this flowchart.

  When the terminal 10 attempts a direct connection with the printer 20 in step S117 in FIG. 3, the connection processing unit 212 establishes a direct connection between the wireless communication unit 24 and the terminal 10.

  If it is determined that the direct connection of the printer 20 is not valid (step S216: N), the response processing unit 211 determines whether the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S218). If it is determined that the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is valid (step S218: Y), the response processing unit 211 generates response information including an identifier of the Wi-Fi connection and setting information of the Wi-Fi connection. The response information is transmitted to the control unit 11 via the NFC communication unit 23 (S219). And the response process part 211 complete | finishes the process of this flowchart.

  When the terminal 10 establishes a Wi-Fi connection with the AP 30 in step S119 in FIG. 3, the terminal 10 and the printer 20 can communicate with each other by a Wi-Fi connection via the AP 30.

  When it is determined that the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is not valid (step S218: N), the response processing unit 211 generates response information including information indicating that all connection forms are invalid, and the response information Is transmitted to the control unit 11 via the NFC communication unit 23 (S220). And the response process part 211 complete | finishes the process of this flowchart.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a printer activation process. This flowchart is started, for example, when the printer 20 is powered on.

  The connection processing unit 212 of the control unit 21 acquires request information and identification information from the NFC communication unit 23 (step S230). These request information and identification information are written in the NFC communication unit 23 when step S131 of FIG. 4 is executed. The connection processing unit 212 can read out these pieces of information from the NFC communication unit 23, for example, in the serial communication mode.

  The connection processing unit 212 determines whether request information and identification information have been acquired in step S230 (step S231). If it is determined that the request information and the identification information have not been acquired (step S231: N), the connection processing unit 212 ends the process of this flowchart.

  If it is determined that the request information and the identification information have been acquired (step S231: Y), the connection processing unit 212 reserves direct connection (step S232). For example, the connection processing unit 212 reserves one of the number of unused connections among the number of simultaneous connections of direct connection by storing the identification information as reservation information in a storage unit such as a RAM of the printer 20.

  Further, the connection processing unit 212 validates the direct connection (step S233). For example, the connection processing unit 212 performs setting so that a connection request for direct connection can be accepted via the wireless communication unit 24. And the connection process part 212 complete | finishes the process of this flowchart. Thereafter, for example, the user can establish a direct connection between the terminal 10 and the printer 20 by holding the terminal 10 over the printer 20 and sending the requested connection form (direct connection) to the printer 2.

  If the reservation information is stored in the storage unit, the connection processing unit 212 acquires the identification information of the external device in the direct connection sequence, and uses the acquired identification information and the identification information included in the reservation information. Compare. When the acquired identification information matches the identification information included in the reservation information, the connection processing unit 212 establishes a communication connection with the external device using the reserved connection, and deletes the reservation information from the storage unit. If the acquired identification information does not match the identification information included in the reservation information, the connection processing unit 212 establishes a communication connection with the external device if there is an unused connection among the connections that are not reserved. If there is no unused connection, the connection processing unit 212 notifies a connection error to the external device.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described above. In the wireless communication system according to the present embodiment, the user sets the requested connection form to the terminal and holds the terminal over the printer. When the first connection form corresponding to the requested connection form is valid, the terminal establishes a communication connection according to the first connection form using the first setting information of the first connection form acquired from the printer. The user can select a desired connection form and easily establish a communication connection.

  On the other hand, when the first connection form corresponding to the requested connection form is invalid and the other second connection form is valid, the terminal uses the second setting information of the second connection form acquired from the printer to change the first connection form. A communication connection according to one connection form can be established. Even when the desired connection form is invalid, the user can select another connection form and easily establish a communication connection.

  In the wireless communication system according to the present embodiment, the printer accepts a reservation for direct connection from the terminal. As a result, it is possible to prevent an unused connection from being lost due to another terminal directly connecting to the printer. The user can reliably communicate with the direct connection.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented in various modes without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the following modifications may be added to the above embodiments. Moreover, you may combine 2 or more suitably for embodiment and each modification.

  Although the above embodiment uses the NFC tunnel mode when the printer 20 is in the power-on state, the RF communication mode and the serial communication mode may be used. For example, the response processing unit 211 periodically checks the status (valid or invalid) and setting information (SSID, password, etc.) of each connection form of the printer 20, generates response information based on the check result, and performs serial communication Write to the NFC communication unit 23 in the mode. The content of the response information is the same as in the above-described embodiment. When the terminal 10 is held over the printer 20, the request processing unit 111 reads response information from the NFC communication unit 23 via the NFC communication unit 13 in the RF communication mode. The connection processing unit 112 can realize the same processing as S110 to S120 in FIG. 3 based on the requested connection form and the read response information. In order to cause the terminal 10 to determine the power-off state of the printer 20, the response processing unit 211 may write the power state (power-on state or power-off state) of the printer 20 in the NFC communication unit 23. The control unit 11 may read the power state of the printer 20 from the NFC communication unit 23 via the NFC communication unit 13 when the terminal 10 is held over the printer 20. The control unit 11 may read the response information when the printer 20 is in the power-on state. The control unit 11 may read the power state of the printer 20 and the response information at a time. The control unit 11 may perform the process of FIG. 4 when the printer 20 is in a power-off state.

  When it is determined that the Wi-Fi connection of the printer 20 is not valid (step S211: N), for example, the connection processing unit 212 searches for the AP 30 and performs Wi-Fi connection with the AP 30 (validation of the Wi-Fi connection). You may try. Then, the response processing unit 211 may determine that the Wi-Fi connection is valid when the Wi-Fi connection with the AP 30 is established, and may execute step S212. If the Wi-Fi connection with the AP 30 is not established, the response processing unit 211 may execute step S213. Note that before the connection processing unit 212 attempts to validate the Wi-Fi connection, the response processing unit 211 may transmit information indicating that the Wi-Fi connection is invalid to the terminal 10. When the request processing unit 111 receives information indicating that the Wi-Fi connection is invalid, the request processing unit 111 displays an operation screen for accepting selection from the user as to whether or not to attempt processing for enabling the Wi-Fi connection. The user's selection may be sent to the printer 20. When the execution of the process for enabling the Wi-Fi connection is selected, the connection processing unit 212 may start an attempt to enable the Wi-Fi connection. The response processing unit 211 may execute the process of step S213 when execution of the process for enabling the Wi-Fi connection is not selected. In step S <b> 114 or step S <b> 115, the request processing unit 111 may accept a selection on the operation screen from the user as to whether or not to attempt the process for enabling the Wi-Fi connection.

  If it is determined that the direct connection of the printer 20 is not valid (step S216: N), for example, the connection processing unit 212 may attempt to validate the direct connection. And the response process part 211 may perform step S217, when direct connection is validated. If the direct connection cannot be validated, the response processing unit 211 may execute step S218. Note that before the connection processing unit 212 attempts to validate the direct connection, the response processing unit 211 may transmit information indicating that the direct connection is invalid to the terminal 10. When the request processing unit 111 receives information indicating that the direct connection is invalid, the request processing unit 111 displays an operation screen for accepting selection from the user as to whether or not to attempt processing for enabling the direct connection. It may be transmitted to the printer 20. The connection processing unit 212 may start an attempt to enable direct connection when execution of processing for enabling direct connection is selected. The response processing unit 211 may execute the process of step S218 when execution of the process for enabling direct connection is not selected. In step S119 or step S120, the request processing unit 111 may accept a selection on the operation screen from the user as to whether or not to attempt a process for enabling direct connection.

  Although the terminal 10 of the above-described embodiment transmits the requested connection form to the printer 20, the terminal 10 may simply transmit information requesting information regarding an effective connection form of the printer 20 to the printer 20. In this case, when at least one connection form is valid, the response processing unit 211 may transmit the identifier of each valid connection form and the setting information as response information. When any of the connection forms is invalid, the response processing unit 211 may transmit information indicating that all the connection forms are invalid as response information.

  When it is determined that the requested connection form is Wi-Fi connection (step S130: N), the request processing unit 111 writes request information including the requested connection form (Wi-Fi connection) in the NF communication unit 23 of the printer 20. But you can. In the activation process of the printer 20, the connection processing unit 212 may determine whether the request information read from the NFC communication unit 23 indicates direct connection but indicates Wi-Fi connection. When the request information indicates direct connection, the connection processing unit 212 may execute the processes of steps S232 and S233. When the request information indicates a Wi-Fi connection, the connection processing unit 212 may try to validate the Wi-Fi connection.

  In the embodiment described above, direct connection (soft AP mode) and Wi-Fi connection (infrastructure mode) are taken as examples of connection forms. The above-described embodiments may handle three or more connection forms such as direct connection (soft AP mode), direct connection (Wi-Fi Direct mode), and Wi-Fi connection (infrastructure mode). Also in this case, when the first connection form corresponding to the requested connection form is valid, the printer 20 may respond with information regarding the first connection form. When the first connection form is invalid and the second connection form different from the requested connection form is valid, the printer 20 may respond with information related to the second connection form. If any connection form is invalid, the printer 20 may respond with information indicating that all connection forms are invalid. When the first connection form is invalid, the terminal 10 may recommend one or more valid second connection forms.

  In the above-described embodiment, finer communication standards (for example, IEEE802.11b, a, g, n, ac, etc.) of Wi-Fi connection may be handled as different connection forms. For direct connection, more detailed communication standards (for example, IEEE802.11b, a, g, n, ac, etc.) may be handled as different connection forms.

  The configuration of the wireless communication system described in the above embodiment is classified according to the main processing contents in order to facilitate understanding of the configuration. The present invention is not limited by the way of classification and names of the constituent elements. The configuration of the wireless communication system can be classified into more components depending on the processing content. Moreover, it can also classify | categorize so that one component may perform more processes. Further, the processing of each component may be executed by one hardware or may be executed by a plurality of hardware. Further, the processing or function sharing of each component is not limited to the above as long as the object and effect of the present invention can be achieved. For example, some functions of the terminal 10 may be mounted on the printer 20 or vice versa. For example, an NFC tag may be mounted on the terminal 10 and an NFC reader / writer may be mounted on the printer 20.

  The processing units of the flowcharts described in the above embodiments are divided according to main processing contents in order to facilitate understanding of the processing of the wireless communication system. The present invention is not limited by the way of dividing the processing unit or the name. The processing of the wireless communication system can be divided into more processing units according to the processing content. Moreover, it can also divide | segment so that one process unit may contain many processes. Further, the processing order of the above flowchart is not limited to the illustrated example.

  The screens and data structures described in the above embodiments are examples, and the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples as long as the object of the present invention can be achieved.

  The electronic device of the present invention is not limited to a printer. The electronic devices can include devices that implement both near field communication and wireless LAN communication, such as scanners, multifunction devices, projectors, televisions, and video recorders. Further, the present invention is not limited to NFC, and other standards may be used for short-range wireless communication.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Wireless communication system, 10 ... Terminal, 11 ... Control part, 12 ... Operation part, 13 ... Communication part, 14 ... Wireless communication part, 15 ... Mobile communication part, 20 ... Printer, 21 ... Control part, 22 ... Operation part , 23 ... communication unit, 24 ... wireless communication unit, 25 ... printing unit, 30 ... AP, 111 ... request processing unit, 112 ... connection processing unit, 211 ... response processing unit, 212 ... connection processing unit, 500 ... operation screen, 501 ... button, 502 ... button, 510 ... operation screen, 511 ... button, 520 ... operation screen, 521 ... button, 522 ... button, 530 ... operation screen, 531 ... button

Claims (7)

A near field communication unit;
A plurality of different connections including a first connection form that communicates with a terminal via an external access point and a second connection form that functions as an internal access point and communicates with the terminal via the internal access point A wireless communication unit for providing a form of wireless communication;
When request information indicating the requested connection form selected by the user is received from the terminal via the short-range wireless communication unit, and the first connection form corresponding to the requested connection form indicated by the request information is valid A response processing unit that transmits first setting information for wireless connection with the wireless communication unit according to the first connection form to the terminal via the short-range wireless communication unit,
The wireless communication unit communicates with the terminal using the first setting information in the first connection form,
The response processing unit includes an SSID and a password corresponding to the internal access point for wirelessly connecting to the wireless communication unit according to the second connection form when the first connection form is invalid. 2 setting information is transmitted to the terminal via the short-range wireless communication unit,
The wireless communication unit is an electronic device that communicates with the terminal using the second setting information by the second connection form. The electronic device according to claim 1,
The second connection form is a connection form for communicating with the terminal peer-to-peer,
An electronic apparatus having a connection processing unit that performs a connection process for communication of the terminal and the first connection form. The electronic device according to claim 1,
The short-range wireless communication unit is a communication tag having a storage unit capable of writing the request information from the terminal when the electronic device is in a power-off state.
An electronic device having a connection processing unit that validates the first connection form when the request information is stored in the storage unit during a startup process from a power-off state of the electronic device. Electronic equipment,
A near field communication unit;
A wireless communication unit that provides wireless communication of a plurality of different connection forms;
When request information indicating the requested connection form selected by the user is received from the terminal via the short-range wireless communication unit, and the first connection form corresponding to the requested connection form indicated by the request information is valid A response processing unit that transmits first setting information for wireless connection with the wireless communication unit according to the first connection form to the terminal via the short-range wireless communication unit,
The wireless communication unit communicates with the terminal in the first connection form,
The communication of the first connection form can establish a predetermined number of simultaneous connections,
The short-range wireless communication unit is a communication tag having a storage unit that can write the identification information of the terminal and the request information from the terminal when the electronic device is in a power-off state.
If the identification information and the request information are stored in the storage unit during the startup process from the power-off state of the electronic device, one of the predetermined simultaneous connections is reserved for the identification information. An electronic device having a connection processing unit. The electronic device according to claim 1,
The short-range wireless communication unit is a communication tag,
The plurality of connection forms are electronic devices including a connection form for communicating with the terminal via an access point and a connection form for communicating with the terminal in a peer-to-peer manner. A wireless communication system including a terminal and an electronic device,
The terminal
A first short-range wireless communication unit;
A first wireless communication unit that provides wireless communication of a plurality of different connection forms;
Request information indicating a requested connection mode selected by a user regarding communication via the first wireless communication unit is transmitted to the electronic device via the first short-range wireless communication unit, and the request connection mode is set. A request processing unit for receiving, from the electronic device via the first short-range wireless communication unit, first setting information for wirelessly connecting to the electronic device according to a corresponding first connection form;
A first connection processing unit that performs communication connection processing of the first connection form using the received first setting information;
The electronic device is
A second short-range wireless communication unit;
A plurality of different types including a first connection form that communicates with the terminal via an external access point and a second connection form that functions as an internal access point and communicates with the terminal via the internal access point A second wireless communication unit providing wireless communication of the connection form;
When the request information is received from the terminal via the second short-range wireless communication unit, and the first connection form corresponding to the requested connection form indicated by the request information is valid, A response processing unit that transmits the setting information of 1 to the terminal via the second short-range wireless communication unit,
The second wireless communication unit communicates with the terminal using the first setting information in the first connection form,
The response processing unit includes an SSID and a password corresponding to the internal access point for wirelessly connecting to the second wireless communication unit according to the second connection form when the first connection form is invalid. The second setting information including: is transmitted to the terminal via the second short-range wireless communication unit,
The second wireless communication unit is a wireless communication system that communicates with the terminal using the second setting information by the second connection form. A wireless communication method of a wireless communication system including a terminal and an electronic device,
The terminal includes a first short-range wireless communication unit and a first wireless communication unit that provides wireless communication of a plurality of different connection forms,
The electronic device functions as a second short-range wireless communication unit, a first connection form that communicates with the terminal via an external access point, and an internal access point. A second wireless communication unit that provides wireless communication of a plurality of different connection forms including a second connection form that communicates with a terminal;
The terminal transmits request information indicating a requested connection mode selected by a user related to communication via the first wireless communication unit to the electronic device via the first short-range wireless communication unit; ,
When the electronic device receives the request information from the terminal via the second short-range wireless communication unit, and the first connection form corresponding to the requested connection form indicated by the request information is valid And transmitting the first setting information to the terminal via the second short-range wireless communication unit for wirelessly connecting to the second wireless communication unit according to the first connection mode;
The terminal receiving the first setting information from the electronic device via the first short-range wireless communication unit;
The terminal performing connection processing of communication of the first connection form using the received first setting information;
When the first connection form is invalid, the electronic device uses an SSID and a password corresponding to the internal access point for wireless connection with the second wireless communication unit according to the second connection form. Transmitting the second setting information including the second setting information to the terminal via the second short-range wireless communication unit;
A step in which the terminal performs connection processing of communication in the second connection form using the received second setting information.

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