JP2017208805A - Communication system, program, information processing device and communication method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To leave from a direct connection by radio after necessary communication is completed, and restart to a network which is normally used, even when an application cannot change a connection destination of a network due to an OS function restriction.SOLUTION: A communication system includes: an application function unit 230 which causes a mobile terminal 200 having a network switchover unit 242 for Wi-Fi direct connection to function as a print management unit 234, which transmits a print job, and a disconnection request unit 236 which, after the print job is transmitted, transmits a disconnection request of the direct connection to an MFP 100; and an MFP which includes a communication control unit 143 which performs direct connection with the network switchover unit, and processes the print job received from the mobile terminal. The communication control unit disconnects the direct connection when receiving the disconnection request. When a direct connection is disconnected, the mobile terminal restarts to an ordinarily used network by the network reconnection function of the OS.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a communication system, a program, an information processing apparatus, and a communication method.

In recent years, portable terminals such as smartphones and tablet PCs (Personal Computers) and information processing apparatuses such as printers and digital cameras can be easily directly connected (peer-to-peer connection) using Wi-Fi Direct or the like. It was. By directly connecting the mobile terminal and the information processing device, processing such as printing an image stored in the mobile terminal with a printer or transferring data stored in the digital camera to the mobile terminal is easily performed. be able to.
Patent Document 1 describes a communication device that uses a Wi-Fi Direct network for service communication. Based on whether the Wi-Fi Direct network used by the communication device is a network constructed to implement a specific service communication or a specific service communication is performed by joining a network that has been constructed in advance. The Wi-Fi Direct network itself is to be terminated or only to leave the Wi-Fi Direct network.

In general, the communication environment of a mobile terminal is usually in a state where it is connected to an external network (Wi-Fi, telephone line (3G / LTE), etc.), and direct connection is performed only when necessary. Connection. Therefore, it is desirable that the mobile terminal returns to the normal communication environment after the mobile terminal directly connects to the information processing apparatus and performs necessary communication.
However, some OSs of mobile terminals have management rights of the network connection destination as the exclusive right of the OS and do not allow the application to change the network connection destination (for example, iOS). In such a case, since the direct connection cannot be terminated from the application, it is necessary for the user to input an instruction to change the network connection destination from the OS management screen, and the operation is complicated.
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and is necessary even when an application cannot switch a network connection destination due to OS function restrictions when directly connected to an information processing apparatus. The purpose is to return to the normal network after leaving the direct connection after the communication is completed.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 is a first connection means for wirelessly connecting directly to an information processing device, and transmits an information processing request for requesting information processing to the information processing device. Processing request means, a computer comprising a disconnect request means for transmitting the direct connection disconnection request to the information processing apparatus after the information processing request is transmitted, and the first connection means wirelessly A second connection means for direct connection, and the information processing device for processing the information processing request received from the computer, wherein the second connection means performs the direct connection when the disconnection request is received. A cutting process for cutting is executed.

  According to the present invention, when a direct connection with an information processing apparatus is performed wirelessly, even if the application cannot switch the network connection destination due to OS function restrictions, the direct connection is performed after the necessary communication is completed. You can leave the network and return to the normal network.

1 is an overall configuration diagram of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a hardware block diagram of an MFP according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. It is a hardware block diagram of the portable terminal which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a functional block diagram of the portable terminal and MFP which concern on one Embodiment of this invention. (A) to (f) are screen transition diagrams when the mobile terminal is directly connected to the MFP. 6 is a sequence chart showing direct connection processing and disconnection processing between a mobile terminal and an MFP. 10 is a sequence chart illustrating operations of the portable terminal and the MFP according to the second embodiment of the present invention during normal operation. 10 is a sequence chart showing an operation when an error occurs between the mobile terminal and the MFP according to the second embodiment of the present invention. 10 is a sequence chart illustrating operations of a mobile terminal and an MFP in a normal state according to a third embodiment of the present invention. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of an MFP according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print status screen corresponding to step S123. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print status screen corresponding to step S135.

An embodiment of the present invention will be described. The present invention is characterized in that the information processing apparatus executes a process of disconnecting the direct connection according to an instruction transmitted from the mobile terminal or based on the determination of the information processing apparatus. By this process, the mobile terminal is disconnected from the direct connection, but when the mobile terminal is disconnected from the network to which the mobile terminal is connected, a process of searching for a network to which the OS can be connected and reconnecting is executed (OS network reconnection). Connection function). Therefore, the mobile terminal can return to the network that is normally used.
The features of the present invention described above will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings. However, the components, types, combinations, shapes, relative arrangements, and the like described in this embodiment are merely illustrative examples and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention only unless otherwise specified. .

[Overall configuration of communication system]
FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The communication system 1 includes an MFP (Multi-Function Peripheral) 100 (an example of an information processing apparatus) that functions as an access point called a group owner of the Wi-Fi Direct (registered trademark) standard established by the Wi-Fi Alliance, A mobile terminal 200 (an example of a communication device) that functions as a client capable of direct connection by Wi-Fi Direct.
The MFP 100 is a digital multifunction peripheral (image forming apparatus) having processing functions such as a printer, a scanner, and a fax machine, and operates as an access point defined in the IEEE (The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.11 series. . The MFP 100 provides various information processing functions (services) in response to requests from the mobile terminal 200 when directly connected to the mobile terminal 200. As an example, the MFP 100 provides services such as printing of images transmitted from the mobile terminal 200.
The portable terminal 200 operates as a station (client) defined in the IEEE 802.11 series. In addition, the mobile terminal 200 is connected to another communication device 300 (300A, 300B, 300C) such as a smartphone, a tablet PC (Personal Computer), a desktop PC, and a notebook PC via a network N separate from Wi-Fi Direct. It has a connectable configuration. Here, the network N is a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, or the like, and the mobile terminal 200 is connected to the network N via an access point such as a WiFi router.
In the present embodiment, the MFP is exemplified as the communication device that functions as the group owner. However, the group owner may be a device other than the MFP, such as a digital camera. The group owner may be a device connected (or connectable) to the network N, or may be a stand-alone device not connected (or not connected) to the network N.

[Hardware configuration of MFP]
FIG. 2 is a hardware block diagram of the MFP according to the embodiment of the present invention.
The MFP 100 includes a controller unit 110 that controls the entire apparatus, an operation panel 131 that receives an operation of the MFP 100 from a user, a printer engine 132 that prints image data, and a scanner engine 133 that reads a document image and outputs image data. Is provided.
The controller unit 110 includes an external I / F unit (USB I / F 111, network I / F 112, NFC I / F 113, memory I / F 114), an input / output buffer 115, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 116, a program ROM (Read Only). Memory (RAM) 117, RAM (Random Access Memory) 118, NVRAM (Non-Variable RAM) 119, HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 120, panel I / F 121, print control unit 122, and scan control unit 123. These are connected by a system bus 124 and can exchange data.

The external I / F unit (USB I / F 111, network I / F 112, NFC I / F 113) is a communication medium such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), network communication, near field radio communication (NFC). Data exchange with other devices (mobile terminal 200 and communication device 300) is performed. Here, the network I / F 112 performs wireless LAN communication conforming to the IEEE 802.11 standard with the client.
The memory I / F 114 detects connection of the external memory 134 (removable medium such as an SD card) and exchanges data between the external memory 134 and the controller unit 110.
The external memory 134 is a storage memory for storing print data, data for setting device information of the MFP 100, data used for updating, data of the MFP 100, and data input from the outside.

The input / output buffer 115 transmits and receives control codes and various data related to printing and control codes related to communication media and data of the MFP 100 input from other devices.
The CPU 116 controls the entire MFP 100 such as arithmetic processing of various data.
The program ROM 117 stores a program for performing operation control of the CPU 116 and data management and control of each module. The program stored in the program ROM 117 is read into the RAM 118 and executed by the CPU 116.
The RAM 118 is used as a work memory of the CPU 116, a buffer that manages and stores image data in units of pages, and a bitmap memory that stores video data obtained by converting buffer data into a print data pattern.
The NVRAM 119 is a storage memory for storing data to be retained even when the apparatus main body power supply is shut off.
The HDD 120 is a storage memory for storing large-capacity data such as image data.

Panel I / F 121 exchanges data between controller unit 110 and operation panel 131.
The print control unit 122 is a module that controls the printer engine 132. The print control unit 122 controls operations when the printer engine 132 executes print processing, and exchanges data between the controller unit 110 and the printer engine 132.
The scan control unit 123 is a module that controls the scanner engine 133. The scan control unit 123 controls the operation when the scanner engine 133 executes document image reading processing, and exchanges data between the controller unit 110 and the scanner engine 133.

[Hardware configuration of mobile terminal]
FIG. 3 is a hardware block diagram of the mobile terminal according to the embodiment of the present invention.
The portable terminal 200 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM) 204, a CMOS sensor (Complementary MOS sensor) 205, an acceleration / direction sensor 206, and a media drive 208.
The CPU 201 controls the operation of the mobile terminal 200 as a whole. The ROM 202 stores basic input / output programs. The RAM 203 is used as a work area for the CPU 201. The EEPROM 204 reads or writes data according to the control of the CPU 201. The CMOS sensor 205 images a subject under the control of the CPU 201 and obtains image data. The acceleration / direction sensor 206 is an electronic magnetic compass, a gyrocompass, an acceleration sensor, or the like that detects geomagnetism.
The media drive 208 controls reading or writing (storage) of data with respect to a recording medium 207 such as a flash memory. The media drive 208 is configured to be detachable from a recording medium 207 from which already recorded data is read or data is newly written and stored.
The EEPROM 204 stores an OS (Operating System) executed by the CPU 201, association information necessary for network setting, and the like. Applications for executing various processes in the embodiment of the present invention are stored in the EEPROM 204 or the recording medium 207.

The CMOS sensor 205 is a charge-coupled element that converts light into electric charge and digitizes the image of the subject. The CMOS sensor 205 may be, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor as long as it can image a subject.
Furthermore, the mobile terminal 200 includes an audio input unit 209, an audio output unit 210, an antenna 211, a communication unit 212, a wireless LAN communication unit 213, a short-range wireless communication antenna 214, a short-range wireless communication unit 215, a display 216, a touch panel 217, and the like. A bus line 219 is provided.

The voice input unit 209 converts voice into a voice signal. The audio output unit 210 converts the audio signal into audio. The communication unit 212 uses the antenna 211 to communicate with the nearest base station apparatus using a wireless communication signal. The wireless LAN communication unit 213 performs wireless LAN communication conforming to the IEEE 802.11 standard with the access point. The short-range wireless communication unit 215 performs short-range wireless communication (Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication) using the short-range wireless communication antenna 214.
The display 216 is a liquid crystal or organic EL that displays an image of a subject, various icons, and the like. The touch panel 217 is placed on the display 216 and configured by a pressure-sensitive or electrostatic panel, and detects a touch position on the display 216 by touching with a finger, a touch pen, or the like. The bus line 219 is an address bus, a data bus, or the like for electrically connecting the above parts.

In addition, the mobile terminal 200 includes a dedicated battery 218. The portable terminal 200 is driven by the battery 218. Note that the voice input unit 209 includes a microphone for inputting voice. The audio output unit 210 includes a speaker that outputs audio.
As described above, the portable terminal 200 according to the present embodiment can realize various processes as described later with the above hardware configuration.

[Functional configuration of MFP and mobile terminal]
FIG. 4 is a functional configuration diagram of the mobile terminal and the MFP according to the embodiment of the present invention.
The mobile terminal 200 includes an application function unit 230 realized by an application program installed in the mobile terminal, and an OS function unit 240 realized by an OS (Operating System). Hereinafter, the application function unit 230 will be described using an example of a printing application, but other types of applications may be used. In addition, each function unit constituting the application function unit 230 may be configured to be implemented across a plurality of application programs.

The application function unit 230 includes a user interface unit (UI unit 231: disconnection condition setting unit), a connection destination setting unit 232, an IP search / designation unit 233, a print management unit 234 (processing request unit, disconnection condition setting unit), and print data. A conversion unit 235 and a cutting request unit 236 (cutting request unit) are provided.
The OS function unit 240 includes a data storage unit 241, a network switching unit 242 (first connection unit), and a data transmission / reception unit 243.
The UI unit 231 of the application function unit 230 is a part that provides an interface for a user to exchange information with an application program. When the user inputs settings and commands from the UI unit 231, each functional unit of the application program operates according to the input settings and commands.
The data transmission / reception unit 243 of the OS function unit 240 is a part that transmits / receives data to / from the MFP 100 and other information processing apparatuses and communication apparatuses.

Hereinafter, the part which performs the process regarding a network connection is demonstrated.
The connection destination setting unit 232 of the application function unit 230 is a part that sets an information processing apparatus used for receiving an information processing function (service) in accordance with an instruction input from the user via the UI unit 231. Here, the information processing apparatus set by the connection destination setting unit 232 only needs to be connected to the mobile terminal 200 so as to be communicable, and the connection mode is not limited. That is, the connection destination setting unit 232 designates the MFP 100 that is directly connected by Wi-Fi Direct or the like, as shown in FIG.

When the user selects an information processing apparatus on the network N (FIG. 1) to which the mobile terminal 200 is currently connected as an information processing apparatus that is to execute processing related to the service, the connection destination setting unit 232 The IP search / designation unit 233 is caused to execute connection processing with the designated information processing apparatus.
When the user designates an information processing apparatus on a network different from the network N to which the mobile terminal 200 is currently connected as an information processing apparatus that is to execute processing related to the service, the connection destination setting unit 232 sets the OS The network switching unit 242 of the function unit 240 is called to execute necessary processing. Here, the “information processing apparatus on a network different from the network N” means an information processing apparatus or information processing apparatus on another network that cannot be connected from the access point to which the mobile terminal 200 is currently connected. It means an information processing apparatus that needs to be connected by Wi-Fi Direct.
The IP search / designation unit 233 determines the validity of the IP address of the information processing apparatus designated by the connection destination setting unit 232. The IP address of the information processing apparatus may be input by the user via the UI unit 231 when the user designates the information processing apparatus, or is input in advance by the user via the UI unit 231 and the EEPROM 204 (FIG. It may be stored in a dedicated storage area provided in 3). If the IP address of the information processing apparatus is valid, the IP search / designation unit 233 determines the IP address as the connection destination.

The network switching unit 242 of the OS function unit 240 executes processing for switching the connection destination of the network to which the mobile terminal 200 is connected. That is, the network switching unit 242 executes processing for disconnecting the mobile terminal 200 from the network N and connecting to another network via another access point, and processing for connecting to the information processing apparatus using Wi-Fi Direct. In addition, when the network switching unit 242 is disconnected from the connected Wi-Fi Direct or the network, the network switching unit 242 executes a process of searching for a new connection destination and connecting.
In addition to the case where the network switching unit 242 is called from the connection destination setting unit 232, the user directly calls the connection destination setting unit 232 which is an OS setting screen without using the application function unit 230 and gives necessary instructions. Even when input is performed, a process of switching the connection destination of the network to which the mobile terminal 200 is connected is executed.

Hereinafter, the part which performs the process regarding printing is demonstrated.
The print management unit 234 of the application function unit 230 acquires the specified print data when print data (document, bitmap image, etc.) is specified by the user via the UI unit 231 and a print execution command is input. To do. Also, the print management unit 234 outputs the acquired print data to the print data conversion unit 235, and instructs the MFP 100 to transmit a print job (information processing request) requesting execution of print processing for the print data. . The print management unit 234 may acquire print data from the network N. The print management unit 234 calls the cutting request unit 236 after outputting the print data to the print data conversion unit 235.
The print data conversion unit 235 converts the print data acquired from the print management unit 234 into a printable data format (for example, PDL), and transmits the print job to the MFP 100 via the data transmission / reception unit 243.
The disconnection request unit 236 called from the print management unit 234 transmits a Wi-Fi Direct disconnection request to the MFP 100 via the data transmission / reception unit 243 as necessary.
The data storage unit 241 of the OS function unit 240 stores print data.

  The functional units provided by the application functional unit 230 and the OS functional unit 240 are realized by the CPU 201 of the mobile terminal 200 reading out a program stored in the ROM 202, developing the program in the RAM 203, and executing the program. The program is provided as a file in an installable or executable format and recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD, or And distributed by being downloaded from the server via the network.

Next, the MFP 100 will be described.
The MFP 100 includes an operation panel 131, a controller unit 110 as a panel control unit 141, a print control unit 122, a communication control unit 143 (second connection unit), and a data transmission / reception unit 146. In addition, the controller unit 110 includes a setting storage unit 144 and a timer 145.
The panel control unit 141 is a part that exchanges data between the controller unit 110 and the operation panel 131, and is mainly realized by the panel I / F 121.
The communication control unit 143 and the data transmission / reception unit 146 are units that transmit / receive data to / from the mobile terminal 200, and are mainly realized by the network I / F 112.
The setting storage unit 144 is a part that stores communication settings, and is realized by the RAM 118 of FIG.
The timer 145 is a means for starting timing after the end of printing, and is realized by the CPU 116 and the RAM 118 of FIG.

[Screen transition diagram]
FIGS. 5A to 5F are screen transition diagrams when the mobile terminal is directly connected to the MFP. This screen transition diagram shows screen transitions from when the OS network setting screen is called from the print application to returning to the print application screen again.
When the OS of the mobile terminal is an OS that does not allow the application to change the network connection destination (for example, iOS), the network connection destination is displayed by calling the OS network setting screen from the application and displaying it on the UI unit. Easy switching.

  FIG. 5A illustrates an example of a print application setting screen. The user transmits a print job from the activated print application to a desired MFP. However, if the MFP 100 that is the transmission destination of the print job is not on the network N, the user needs to connect the portable terminal 200 and the MFP 100 so that they can communicate with each other. is there. For this purpose, the user first displays the print application setting screen 410 shown in FIG. When the user selects the connected device switching 411 on the setting screen 410, the connection destination setting unit 232 of the application function unit 230 calls the network switching unit 242 of the OS function unit 240. Then, the network switching unit 242 displays a screen as shown in FIG. 5B via the UI unit 231.

  FIGS. 5B to 5D are diagrams illustrating examples of screens related to Wi-Fi settings provided by the OS. This example shows a connection example using an SSID (Service Set IDentifier) and a PIN code (Personal Identification Number code), but the mobile terminal 200 is directly connected to the MFP 100 by Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS). May be.

In the Wi-Fi setting screen 420 in FIG. 5B, the user confirms whether Wi-Fi is ON. If it is OFF, the user turns Wi-Fi ON. When Wi-Fi is ON, the network switching unit 242 searches for a network (access point) that can be connected to the Wi-Fi setting screen, and displays the SSID on the Wi-Fi setting screen 420. When the MFP 100 is in the direct connection mode, the SSID (MFP-Direct in the figure) of the MFP 100 is displayed on the Wi-Fi setting screen 420.
When the user selects MFP 100 as a connection destination, a password (PIN code, encryption key) input screen 430 as shown in FIG. 5C is displayed. When the user inputs the password and taps the “Connect” button, the screen changes to a Wi-Fi setting screen 420 shown in FIG. When the mobile terminal 200 is directly connected, a check mark indicating that is displayed on the left side of the connected device name “MFP-Direct”.

  FIG. 5E is a diagram illustrating an example of a print data selection screen 440 provided by the print application. FIG. 5F illustrates an example of a preview screen 450 provided by the print application. To return from the OS Wi-Fi setting screen 420 to the print application screen, the user needs to tap the home button 400 of the mobile terminal to return to the home screen and perform an operation such as calling the print application from the home screen. is there. When the user selects data to be printed (eg, operation manual.pdf) from the print data selection screen 440 shown in FIG. 5E, a preview screen 450 shown in FIG. 5F is displayed. When the user taps the print button 451 on the preview screen 450, a print job of the selected data is transmitted to the MFP 100.

[First embodiment]
FIG. 6 is a sequence chart showing direct connection processing and disconnection processing between the portable terminal and the MFP. Regarding the MFP, this figure shows the operation from when the MFP is in a stand-alone environment independent of the network N, or from the normal state where the MFP is connected to the network N to the state where it is directly connected to the mobile terminal, and then to the normal state. Show. Regarding the mobile terminal, this figure shows the operation from the normal state in which the mobile terminal is connected to the network N to the state in which the mobile terminal is directly connected to the MFP, and then to the normal state in which the mobile terminal is connected to the network N. . In the portable terminal, it is assumed that the print application is activated.

In step S <b> 101, the user switches the network connection mode of the MFP 100 to the direct connection mode by operating the operation panel 131 of the MFP 100 or pressing a direct connection switching button provided separately from the operation panel 131. Give instructions. Communication control unit 143 of MFP 100 shifts to the direct connection mode in accordance with an instruction from the user. Communication control unit 143 waits for connection of portable terminal 200 so that it can function as an access point for Wi-Fi Direct.
In step S103, the user issues an instruction to directly connect to the MFP 100 from the UI unit 231 of the portable terminal 200 (FIG. 5). That is, the user calls the OS Wi-Fi setting screen 420 shown in FIG. 5B from the print application setting screen shown in FIG. 5A and selects the MFP 100 (MFP-Direct) as the connection destination. Then, necessary settings such as password input shown in FIG.

In step S105, the network switching unit 242 of the portable terminal 200 and the communication control unit 143 of the MFP 100 execute connection processing (negotiation) by Wi-Fi Direct and establish a direct connection between the two (FIG. 5D). . With this processing, MFP 100 functions as an access point, and portable terminal 200 functions as a client.
In step S107, the user selects a file to be printed from the UI unit 231 of the portable terminal 200, and instructs printing execution (FIGS. 5E and 5F). In response to an instruction from the user, the print management unit 234 of the portable terminal 200 reads out data to be printed from the data storage unit 241 and transfers it to the print data conversion unit 235. The print data conversion unit 235 converts the print data into a printable data format such as PDL and transmits the print data as a print job to the MFP 100 via the data transmission / reception unit 243.
In step S109, the print control unit 122 of the MFP 100 controls the printer engine 132 (FIG. 2) to execute the print job received from the portable terminal 200 via the data transmission / reception unit 146.

In step S <b> 111, portable terminal 200 transmits a direct connection disconnection request to MFP 100. That is, the print management unit 234 of the mobile terminal 200 instructs the disconnection request unit 236 to transmit a direct connection disconnection request after the print job is transmitted to the MFP 100. Upon receiving the command, disconnection request unit 236 transmits a direct connection disconnection request to MFP 100.
In step S113, the communication control unit 143 of the MFP 100 receives the request from the portable terminal 200 and executes a process for cutting off the direct connection, and the MFP 100 returns to the normal state.

In step S115, the network switching unit 242 of the mobile terminal 200 detects that the direct connection has been disconnected. That is, the network switching unit 242 constantly monitors the connection state of the network, and detects this when the direct connection is disconnected.
In step S117, the network switching unit 242 of the mobile terminal 200 searches for connectable networks (access points).
In step S119, the network switching unit 242 of the mobile terminal 200 executes a process of connecting to the network with the highest priority among the searched networks. The priority order is determined based on the past connection history. By this processing, the portable terminal shifts to a state where it is connected to the network N which is a normal state.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the application of the portable terminal requests the information processing apparatus such as the MFP to disconnect the direct connection, and the MFP that receives the request disconnects the direct connection. The OS of the mobile terminal that has detected the disconnection of the direct connection executes a process of searching for a connectable network and returning to the state connected to the network by the function of the OS. Therefore, even if the OS of the mobile terminal is an OS that does not allow the application to change the network connection, it is possible to disconnect the direct connection and reconnect to an appropriate network.

[Second Embodiment]
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the first embodiment, the portable terminal transmits a disconnection request in step S111 to the MFP after completing the transmission of the print job. However, when the MFP generates a printing error due to a paper jam or the like during the printing operation, there is a problem that the state of the MFP cannot be detected from the mobile terminal that has transmitted the disconnection request. If the user directly confirms the status of the MFP and recognizes that a print error has occurred and that the print job has stopped, to reprint the data that caused the print error, the mobile terminal and the MFP are directly connected again. Therefore, there is a problem that the operation is complicated and the operation becomes complicated.

FIG. 7 is a sequence chart showing operations of the portable terminal and the MFP according to the second embodiment of the present invention at normal times. The present embodiment is characterized in that the state of the MFP can be monitored from the portable terminal. The same operations as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same step numbers, and the description thereof is omitted.
While the MFP 100 is executing the print job shown in step S109, the print management unit 234 of the portable terminal 200 acquires the print status from the MFP 100 periodically or as necessary (step S121). The acquired print status includes the state of the MFP (printing, waiting for printing, occurrence of error, error content), print job execution rate (processing rate), and the like. The print status may be configured such that the print control unit 122 of the MFP 100 transmits to the mobile terminal 200, or the print management unit 234 of the mobile terminal 200 makes an inquiry (polling) to the print control unit 122 of the MFP 100 to acquire the print status. It may be configured to.

In step S123, the print management unit 234 causes the UI unit 231 to display the acquired print status. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print status screen corresponding to step S123. The print status screen 460 displays the name of the file being printed, the fact that printing is being performed, and the page number being printed. The page number being printed changes according to the printing state. The print status screen 460 may display the total number of pages to be printed in addition to the page number being printed.
When the processing of the print job is completed, in step S125, the print control unit 122 of the MFP 100 notifies the mobile terminal 200 of a print status (processing completion notification) indicating that the printing is completed.
In step S127, the print management unit 234 of the mobile terminal 200 that has acquired the processing completion notification displays the fact on the UI unit 231.
After the processing completion notification is acquired, the disconnection request unit 236 of the mobile terminal 200 transmits a direct connection disconnection request to the MFP 100 (step S111).

FIG. 8 is a sequence chart showing an operation when an error occurs between the portable terminal and the MFP according to the second embodiment of the present invention. A description of the same operation as in the normal operation is omitted.
In step S131, when the print control unit 122 of the MFP 100 detects the occurrence of an error during the printing operation, the print control unit 122 notifies the mobile terminal 200 of a print status indicating that an error has occurred (step S133).
In step S135, the print management unit 234 of the mobile terminal 200 displays the print status on the UI unit 231. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print status screen corresponding to step S135. The print status screen 470 displays a file name being printed, an error has occurred, a reprint button 471 for instructing reprinting, and a print cancel button 472 for instructing to cancel printing. The user can determine whether or not to execute reprinting by confirming the print status displayed on the screen. In addition to visual notification, voice output using the audio output unit 210 illustrated in FIG. 3 (auditory notification) or the like can be used for notification to the user.

In step S137, the user instructs execution of reprinting from the UI unit 231 of the mobile terminal 200. That is, the user presses the reprint button 471 in FIG. In response to the instruction from the user, the print management unit 234 causes the print data conversion unit 235 to transmit the print job again.
Thereafter, the same processing as steps S109, S121, and S123 is performed as steps S109-2, S121-2, and S123-2.
When the processing of the print job is completed, the processing after step S125 is executed. If an error occurs again in the MFP, the processes in steps S131 to S135 are repeated.
Note that the user may input a print cancel instruction instead of inputting a reprint instruction in step S137. That is, the user may press the print cancel button 472 in FIG. In this case, the process after step S111 is performed.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the mobile terminal acquires the print status from the MFP, and the mobile terminal transmits a disconnection request to the MFP after acquiring the processing completion notification. The operation state of the MFP can be confirmed until the printing process is completed. Further, even when a printing error occurs in the MFP, the user can issue a desired instruction such as a reprint instruction or a print cancel instruction to the MFP without performing a reconnection operation using Wi-Fi Direct. .

[Third embodiment]
A third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the first and second embodiments, a disconnection request is transmitted from the portable terminal to the MFP (step S111), and based on the disconnection request, the MFP performs a process of disconnecting the direct connection and returning to the normal state. (Step S113).
However, since this disconnection request is transmitted from the printing application, if the user inputs an instruction to connect to another network from the network setting screen under the management of the OS, the direct connection disconnection request is not notified to the MFP. The mobile terminal will leave the direct connection. Even when the MFP cannot receive a disconnection request transmitted from the mobile terminal due to deterioration of the communication environment, the mobile terminal leaves the direct connection without receiving the disconnection request by the MFP.
As described above, when the MFP cannot receive the disconnection request from the mobile terminal for some reason and the mobile terminal is disconnected from the direct connection and the direct connection between the two ends, the MFP changes from the direct connection mode to the normal state. It cannot be migrated. If the normal state of the MFP is a state where it is connected to the network N shown in FIG. 1, the MFP once cancels the connection with the network N in order to establish a connection by Wi-Fi Direct. If the state in which the MFP is not connected to the network N continues, a situation in which another communication apparatus 300 cannot use the MFP 100 via the network N occurs.

  FIG. 9 is a sequence chart showing operations at the normal time of the portable terminal and the MFP according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The present embodiment is characterized in that the MFP cancels the direct connection mode and returns to the normal state even when it does not receive a direct connection disconnection request from the mobile terminal. Hereinafter, the same operations as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same step numbers, and the description thereof is omitted.

When the MFP 100 completes the printing process shown in step S109, the timer 145 starts measuring time (step S143). When a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of time measurement by the timer 145 (step S145), in step S113, the communication control unit 143 executes a process of disconnecting the direct connection. With this process, MFP 100 returns to the normal state.
When the MFP 100 receives a disconnection request from the portable terminal 200 between the time measurement start by the timer (step S143) and the time measurement end (step S145), the communication control unit 143 performs direct connection shown in step S113 based on the disconnection request. Execute the process to disconnect. In addition, the timer 145 ends timing.
When a new print job is transmitted from the portable terminal between the start of timing by the timer (step S143) and the end of timing (step S145), the timer 145 stops timing and the print control unit 122 sets a new one. Execute print job processing. In addition, when the printing process is completed, the timer 145 is reset and starts counting again.

According to the present embodiment, the portable terminal 200 terminates the direct connection mode without transmitting a direct connection disconnection request to the MFP 100 (step S141), and performs processing for connecting to the network N (steps S117 and S119). Even when executed, the MFP 100 can shift from the direct connection mode to the normal state.
In the present embodiment, since the timer 145 starts timing after the printing process is completed, the mobile terminal can receive the print status shown in the second embodiment. However, the timer 145 may be configured to start timing immediately after receiving the print job and to disconnect the direct connection before the completion of the print processing as in the first embodiment.

[Fourth embodiment]
A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the third embodiment, the MFP executes a process of disconnecting the direct connection after a predetermined time has elapsed since the printing process was completed. However, if the timer finishes before the user transmits a new print job, the direct connection is disconnected before the print job is transmitted, which is inconvenient.
Therefore, in the present embodiment, various settings relating to the direct connection disconnection process executed by the MFP from the mobile terminal can be performed in accordance with the usage mode of the user.

  In this embodiment, the user can set whether or not a disconnection request is required from the mobile terminal and the transmission timing of the disconnection request from the mobile terminal as the disconnection conditions for direct connection by the MFP. The user can input a disconnection condition for direct connection from the UI unit 231. The input cutting condition is managed by the print management unit 234.

When the disconnection request from the mobile terminal is “No” (first disconnection condition), the MFP disconnects the direct connection without receiving the disconnection request from the mobile terminal. When the execution of the print job is completed, the MFP may execute the direct connection disconnection process immediately or after a predetermined time has elapsed.
When the disconnection request from the mobile terminal is “necessary” (second disconnection condition), the MFP disconnects the direct connection based on the disconnection request from the mobile terminal. In this case, the user can set the transmission timing of the disconnection request from the mobile terminal.
When the transmission timing of the disconnection request is set to “for each job”, the print management unit 234 has completed processing of one print job by the MFP when one print job is transmitted to the MFP. In this case (when processing completion notification is acquired), the disconnection request unit 236 is controlled to transmit a disconnection request to the MFP. When the transmission timing of the disconnection request is set to “when all jobs are completed (when the print application ends)”, the print management unit 234 transmits a disconnection request to the MFP when the user gives an application end instruction. The disconnection request unit 236 is controlled as described above. Thereafter, the application ends.
The content of the setting is notified to the MFP 100 when the print management unit 234 stores the setting or includes it in one of setting information in the print job when the print job is transmitted. The print management unit 234 stores the setting contents in a dedicated storage area provided in the EEPROM 204 (FIG. 3).

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the MFP according to the fourth embodiment.
In step S <b> 201, the communication control unit 143 stores the current network connection state in the setting storage unit 144 before shifting the MFP 100 to the direct connection mode. Here, “preconnect = OFF” indicates a stand-alone environment not connected to the network. Further, “preconnect = Wi-Fi” indicates that it is connected to the network N (FIG. 1) by Wi-Fi connection.
In step S <b> 203, the communication control unit 143 performs connection processing (negotiation) with Wi-Fi Direct with the mobile terminal 200 to establish a connection between the two. This process is the same as the process of step S105 shown in FIG.
In step S <b> 205, the communication control unit 143 acquires a direct connection disconnection condition from the mobile terminal 200 and stores the acquired disconnection condition in the setting storage unit 144. Here, “Disconnect = OFF” means that the direct connection is disconnected after waiting for a disconnection request from the mobile terminal 200, and “Disconnect = ON” disconnects the direct connection without waiting for the disconnection request from the mobile terminal 200. Means that.

In step S207, the print control unit 122 executes the print job received from the mobile terminal 200. This process is the same as the process of step S109 shown in FIG.
In step S209, the communication control unit 143 reads and confirms the direct connection disconnection condition from the setting storage unit 144. If “Disconnect = OFF”, the process of step S211 is executed. If “Disconnect = ON”, the process of step S213 is executed.
In step S211, the communication control unit 143 monitors whether or not a direct connection disconnection request has been received from the mobile terminal. If a direct connection disconnection request is received (Yes in step S211), the process of step S213 is executed.

In step S213, the communication control unit 143 executes direct connection disconnection processing.
In step S215, the communication control unit 143 reads and confirms the connection state before shifting to the direct connection mode from the setting storage unit 144. If “preconnect = OFF”, the process ends. If “preconnect = Wi-Fi”, the process of step S217 is executed.
In step S217, the communication control unit 143 executes processing for returning the MFP 100 to the original communication environment, that is, processing for connecting the MFP 100 to the network N via Wi-Fi.

  According to the present embodiment, various settings relating to the direct connection disconnection process executed by the MFP can be performed from the mobile terminal. As a result, the MFP can execute an operation according to the usage mode of the user, and the convenience can be further improved.

[Summary of Embodiments, Actions, and Effects of the Present Invention]
<First embodiment>
In the communication system 1 according to this aspect, a computer (portable terminal 200) including a first connection unit (network switching unit 242) that directly connects to an information processing apparatus (MFP 100) wirelessly performs information processing on the information processing apparatus. A processing request unit (print management unit 234) for transmitting an information processing request for requesting, and a disconnect request unit (disconnecting) for transmitting a direct connection disconnection request to the information processing apparatus after the information processing request is transmitted And a second connection means (communication control section 143) that directly connects wirelessly with the first connection means, and processes information processing requests received from the computer. The second connection means disconnects the direct connection when a disconnect request is received. And executes the processing.

Here, the wireless direct connection refers to a connection that enables direct communication with another device without using a router or the like, such as Wi-Fi Direct, which is an example of peer-to-peer communication, and Wi-Fi Direct. It is a concept including a connection method other than.
According to this aspect, the application of the portable terminal requests the information processing apparatus such as the MFP to disconnect the direct connection, and the MFP that has received the request disconnects the direct connection. The OS of the mobile terminal that has detected the disconnection of the direct connection executes a process of searching for a connectable network and returning to the state connected to the network by the function of the OS.
Therefore, even if the application cannot switch the network connection destination due to OS function restrictions when directly connected to the information processing device, it is disconnected from the direct connection and used normally after the necessary communication is completed. Can return to the network.

<Second embodiment>
In the communication system 1 according to this aspect, when the process request unit (print management unit 234) acquires a process completion notification indicating that the process based on the information process request has been completed from the information processing apparatus (MFP 100), the disconnect request unit The (disconnect request unit 236) transmits a disconnect request.
According to this aspect, even when the information processing apparatus (MFP 100) generates an error during the processing of information (print job), the information processing apparatus is not subjected to the direct connection process. You can request another information process.

<Third embodiment>
In the communication system 1 according to this aspect, the information processing apparatus (MFP 100) includes a time measuring unit (timer 145) for starting time measurement after the processing based on the information processing request is completed, and the second connection unit (data transmission / reception unit 146). Is characterized in that the cutting process is executed when the time measuring means measures a predetermined time.
For example, consider a case where an information processing apparatus is connected to the network N and another communication apparatus 300 connected to the network N constructs an environment in which the information processing apparatus can be used via the network N. If the MFP leaves the network N for direct connection and does not return to the network N, it is inconvenient that other communication apparatuses cannot use the information processing apparatus.
According to this aspect, even if the information processing apparatus cannot receive a disconnection request from the computer (portable terminal 200) for some reason, the information processing apparatus can be directly connected to the original network environment (standalone Environment or a state connected to the network N).

<Fourth embodiment>
In the communication system 1 according to this aspect, the program (the application function unit 230) causes the computer (the portable terminal 200) to make a disconnect request unnecessary when the second connection unit (the communication control unit 143) performs the disconnection process. The information processing apparatus (MFP 100) functions as a cutting condition setting unit (UI unit 231 or print management unit 234) that sets one of the cutting conditions and the second cutting condition that requires a cutting request, and information. When the cutting condition is the first cutting condition, the second connecting means of the processing device executes the cutting process without waiting for the cutting request after the processing of the information processing request is completed. In the case of the disconnection condition, the disconnection process is executed after the disconnection request is received after the processing of the information processing request is completed.
According to this aspect, various settings related to the direct connection disconnection process executed by the information processing apparatus can be performed from the computer. Thereby, it is possible to cause the information processing apparatus to execute an operation according to the usage mode of the user, and the convenience can be further improved.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Communication system, 100 ... MFP (information processing apparatus), 110 ... Controller part, 141 ... Panel control part, 143 ... Communication control part, 144 ... Setting storage part, 145 ... Timer (time measuring means), 146 ... Data transmission / reception part (Second connection means), 200 ... mobile terminal (computer), 230 ... application function part (program), 231 ... UI part (disconnection condition setting means), 232 ... connection destination setting part, 233 ... IP search / designation part, 234 ... Print management unit (processing request unit, cutting condition setting unit) 235 ... Print data conversion unit, 236 ... Disconnection request unit (cutting request unit), 240 ... OS function unit, 241 ... Data storage unit, 242 ... Network switching , 243 ... Data transmission / reception part (first connection means), 300 ... Communication device, 400 ... Home button, 410 ... Setting screen, 420 ... Wi- i Setup screen, 430 ... input screen, 440 ... selection screen, 450 ... preview screen, 451 ... print button, 460 ... printing status screen, 470 ... printing status screen, 471 ... re-print button, 472 ... print cancel button

JP 2014-158163 A

Claims (12)

First connection means for directly connecting to an information processing apparatus by radio, processing request means for transmitting an information processing request for requesting information processing to the information processing apparatus, and after the information processing request is transmitted, A computer comprising a disconnection request means for transmitting the direct connection disconnection request to the information processing apparatus;
The second connection means for direct connection with the first connection means by radio, and the information processing apparatus for processing the information processing request received from the computer,
The communication system, wherein the second connection means executes a disconnection process for disconnecting the direct connection when the disconnection request is received.   The disconnection request unit transmits the disconnection request when the processing requesting unit acquires a processing completion notification indicating that the processing based on the information processing request has been completed from the information processing apparatus. The communication system according to 1. The information processing apparatus includes a timing unit that starts timing after the processing based on the information processing request is completed,
3. The communication system according to claim 1, wherein the second connection unit executes the disconnection process when the timing unit measures a predetermined time. 4. In the execution of the cutting process by the second connection means, the computer processes either the first cutting condition that does not require the cutting request or the second cutting condition that requires the cutting request. A cutting condition setting means for setting in the apparatus;
When the disconnection condition is the first disconnection condition, the second connection unit of the information processing apparatus executes the disconnection process without waiting for the disconnection request after the processing of the information processing request is completed. And when the cutting condition is the second cutting condition, the cutting process is executed after the cutting request is received after the processing of the information processing request is completed. The communication system as described in any one of thru | or 3. A computer directly connected wirelessly to an information processing apparatus that processes information processing requests,
Processing request means for transmitting the information processing request for requesting information processing to the information processing apparatus; and
A program that causes the information processing apparatus to function as a disconnection request unit that transmits the direct connection disconnection request after the information processing request is transmitted.   The disconnection request unit transmits the disconnection request when the processing requesting unit acquires a processing completion notification indicating that the processing based on the information processing request has been completed from the information processing apparatus. 5. The program according to 5.   In the execution of the direct connection disconnection process by the information processing apparatus, the computer sets either the first disconnect condition that does not require the disconnect request or the second disconnect condition that requires the disconnect request. The program according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the program functions as cutting condition setting means for setting in the information processing apparatus. An information processing apparatus that includes a connection unit that directly connects to a computer wirelessly, and that performs processing based on an information processing request received from the computer,
Comprising time measuring means for starting time measurement after the processing based on the information processing request is completed,
When receiving a request for disconnecting the direct connection from the computer, or when the time measuring means measures a predetermined time, the connecting means executes a disconnection process for disconnecting the direct connection with the computer. A characteristic information processing apparatus. A computer comprising a first connection means for direct connection with an information processing apparatus wirelessly, and a second connection means for direct connection with the first connection means wirelessly and processing the information processing request received from the computer A communication method executed in a communication system including a processing device,
A process requesting unit of the computer directly connected to the information processing apparatus transmits the information processing request to request the information processing apparatus to process information;
After the information processing request is transmitted, the computer disconnection request means transmits the direct connection disconnection request to the information processing apparatus;
And a step of executing a disconnection process for disconnecting the direct connection when the second connection means of the information processing apparatus receives the disconnection request. The process requesting unit obtaining a process completion notification indicating that the process based on the information processing request has been completed from the information processing apparatus;
The communication method according to claim 9, wherein the disconnection request unit performs the step of transmitting the disconnection request. The time counting means of the information processing apparatus starts timing after the processing based on the information processing request is completed;
11. The communication method according to claim 9, wherein the second connection unit executes a step of executing the disconnection process when the time measuring unit measures a predetermined time. When the cutting condition setting means of the computer executes the cutting process by the second connecting means, either the first cutting condition that does not require the cutting request or the second cutting condition that requires the cutting request Setting the information processing apparatus in the information processing apparatus;
When the cutting condition is the first cutting condition, the second connecting means executes the cutting process without waiting for the cutting request after the processing of the information processing request is completed. When the second disconnection condition is satisfied, after the processing of the information processing request is completed, the step of executing the disconnection process after receiving the disconnection request is executed. The communication method according to any one of 9 to 11.

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