JP6237860B2 - Communication device - Google Patents

Description

  The technology disclosed by this specification is related with a communication apparatus.

  Patent Document 1 discloses an electronic device including a proximity wireless communication device. The close proximity wireless transfer device automatically switches between the initiator mode and the responder mode at a predetermined timing. In Patent Document 1, the proximity wireless communication device changes the ratio of the time for operating in the initiator mode and the time for operating in the responder mode according to the state of the power supply connected to the electronic device.

JP 2011-44092 A

  There is a need for a new technique that can appropriately operate an electronic device according to the state of the electronic device.

  The present specification provides a novel communication device that can operate appropriately according to the state of the communication device.

  One technique disclosed by this specification is a communication device. The communication device includes an NFC interface for executing communication in the NFC method, which is a communication method in accordance with the NFC (Near Field Communication) standard, and a control unit. The control unit includes a first determination unit, a mode setting unit, a transmission unit, and a first communication control unit. The first determination unit determines whether or not the state of the communication device is a first state in which specific data stored in advance in the communication device is to be transmitted to the outside. When it is determined that the state of the communication device is the first state, the mode setting unit sets the operation mode of the communication device to a CE (abbreviation for Card Emulation) mode of the NFC standard, and the state of the communication device is the first state. When it is determined that the state is not 1, the operation mode of the communication apparatus is set to the first mode of the NFC standard different from the CE mode. The transmission unit transmits the first type of communication when the first type of communication link is established between the communication device and the first external device while the operation mode of the communication device is set to the CE mode. The specific data is transmitted to the first external device using the link. The first type of communication link is a communication link in which the communication device operates in the CE mode and the first external device operates in the Reader mode of the NFC standard, and data communication is to be executed via the NFC interface. . The first communication control unit is configured when the second type communication link is established between the communication device and the second external device in a state where the operation mode of the communication device is set to the first mode. The communication target data different from the specific data is communicated with the second external device using the second type communication link. In the second type of communication link, the communication device operates in the first mode and the second external device operates in the second mode of the NFC standard, and data communication should be performed via the NFC interface. It is a communication link.

According to said structure, a communication apparatus judges whether the state of a communication apparatus is a 1st state with which specific data should be transmitted outside. When it is determined that the state of the communication device is the first state, the communication device sets the operation mode of the communication device to a CE (abbreviation for Card Emulation) mode of the NFC standard, and the state of the communication device is the first state. When it is determined that the state is not the state, the operation mode of the communication apparatus is set to the first mode of the NFC standard different from the CE mode. Subsequently, when the first type of communication link is established between the communication device and the first external device, the communication device uses the first type of communication link to transfer specific data to the first type. Send to external device. On the other hand, when the second type communication link is established between the communication device and the second external device, the communication device uses the second type communication link to communicate with different data. Are communicated with the second external device. That is, the communication device can operate in an appropriate operation mode (CE mode or first mode) depending on whether or not the state of the communication device is determined to be the first state. As a result, the communication device can execute appropriate communication according to the operation mode of the communication device with the first or second external device. Therefore, the communication device described above can operate appropriately according to the state of the communication device.

When it is determined that the state of the communication device is not the first state, the mode setting unit sets the operation mode of the communication device to an NFC standard P2P (abbreviation of Peerto Peer) mode which is the first mode, The first communication control unit is a first case where the second type communication link is established between the communication device and the second external device in a state where the operation mode of the communication device is set to the P2P mode. In addition, by using the second type communication link, bidirectional communication of the first data as communication target data is executed with the second external device. In the first case, the second type communication link is: The communication device may be a communication link that operates in the P2P mode and the second external device operates in the P2P mode, and data communication is to be performed via the NFC interface.
The control unit is further a second determination unit that determines whether or not the state of the communication device is a second state different from the first state, wherein the second state includes the second data A second determination unit that is in a state to be received from the outside is provided, the mode setting unit determines that the state of the communication device is not the first state, and the state of the communication device is the second state The first communication control unit sets the operation mode of the communication device to the reader mode of the NFC standard, and the first communication control unit sets the operation mode of the communication device to the reader mode in the state where the operation mode of the communication device is set to the reader mode. In the second case where the second type communication link is established with the two external devices, the second type data is transmitted from the second external device as the communication target data using the second type communication link. In the second case, the second type communication link is a communication device. While operating in the Reader mode, the second external device is operating in CE mode, may be a communication link to the data communication via the NFC interface is executed.
The controller further includes a third external device that operates in the NFC standard P2P (Peer to Peer) mode within the communication range of the NFC interface in a state where the operation mode of the communication device is set to the Reader mode. When the presence of the communication device is detected, a change unit that changes the operation mode of the communication device from the Reader mode to the P2P mode, and after the operation mode of the communication device is changed from the Reader mode to the P2P mode, 2nd communication control part which performs bidirectional | two-way communication with a 3rd external device using a 3rd type communication link, when a 3rd type communication link is established between 3 external devices The third type communication link includes a communication device that operates in the P2P mode and a third external device that operates in the P2P mode. Data communication may be a communication link to be performed.
The control unit is a third determination unit that determines whether the state of the communication device is a third state different from the first state, and the third state is acquired by the communication device. A third determination unit that is in a state in which the third data is to be transmitted to the outside, the mode setting unit determines that the state of the communication device is not the first state, and the state of the communication device is When it is determined to be in the third state, the operation mode of the communication device is set to the writer mode of the NFC standard, and the first communication control unit is in a state where the operation mode of the communication device is set to the writer mode Then, in the third case where the second type communication link is established between the communication device and the second external device, the third data is used as the data to be communicated using the second type communication link. To the second external device, and in the third case, the second type Shin link with the communication device operates in the Writer mode, the second external device is operating in CE mode, may be a communication link to the data communication via the NFC interface is executed.
The control unit further includes a third external device that operates in a P2P (abbreviation of Peer to Peer) mode of the NFC standard within the communication range of the NFC interface while the operation mode of the communication device is set to the writer mode. When the operation mode of the communication device is changed from the writer mode to the P2P mode, the communication device and the communication device 2nd communication control part which performs bidirectional | two-way communication with a 3rd external device using a 3rd type communication link, when a 3rd type communication link is established between 3 external devices The third type communication link includes a communication device that operates in the P2P mode and a third external device that operates in the P2P mode. Data communication may be a communication link to be performed.
The control unit further includes the fourth type communication link when the fourth type communication link is established between the communication device and the fourth external device in a state where the operation mode of the communication device is set to the CE mode. Using the communication link, a receiver for receiving a request for causing the communication device to execute a specific function from the fourth external device, wherein the communication device is in the CE mode. A request is received from the receiving unit and the fourth external device, which is a communication link in which the fourth external device operates in the NFC standard writer mode and data communication is to be performed via the NFC interface. A change unit that changes the operation mode of the communication device from the CE mode to the P2P mode, and the communication device and the fourth external device after the operation mode of the communication device is changed from the CE mode to the P2P mode. A third communication control unit that executes bidirectional communication with the fourth external device by using the fifth type communication link when the fifth type communication link is established between them. Good.
The first state may include an error state where the communication device cannot perform at least one function, and the specific data may include web page location information indicating a technique for resolving the error state.
The first state may include a state in which a specific application program is to be downloaded to an external device, and the specific data may include location information for the external device to download a specific application.
Note that a control method, a computer program, and a computer-readable recording medium storing the computer program for realizing the communication device are also novel and useful. A communication system including the communication device and at least one of the first to fourth external devices is also novel and useful.

1 shows a configuration of a communication system. 3 shows a flowchart of MFP communication processing. 6 shows a flowchart of a CE mode process of the MFP. 6 shows a flowchart of a writer mode process of the MFP. 5 shows a flowchart of a reader mode process of the MFP. 6 shows a flowchart of P2P mode processing of the MFP. 6 shows a sequence chart of communication when the MFP operates in the CE mode. 6 shows a communication sequence chart when the MFP operates in the writer mode. 2 shows a communication sequence chart when an MFP operates in a Reader mode. 2 shows a communication sequence chart when an MFP operates in a P2P mode.

(Example)
(Configuration of communication system 2; FIG. 1)
As shown in FIG. 1, the communication system 2 includes an AP (abbreviation for Access Point) 6, a PC (abbreviation for Personal Computer) 8, and a multi-function device (hereinafter, “MFP (abbreviation for Multi-Function Peripheral)”. 10), portable terminals 50 and 80, and an authentication card 100. The MFP 10, the portable terminals 50 and 80, and the authentication card 100 can each perform communication using the NFC standard communication method (that is, the NFC method). Near field communication is wireless communication according to the NFC system. In the present embodiment, NFC wireless communication is executed based on the international standard of ISO / IEC21481 or ISO / IEC18092.

Further, the PC 8, the MFP 10, and the portable terminals 50 and 80 can execute wireless communication in accordance with a Wi-Fi Direct method (hereinafter referred to as “WFD method”), which will be described later. In the WFD system, the IEEE standard of IEEE (The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.) and a standard equivalent thereto (for example, 802.11a,
11b, 11g, 11n, etc.) wireless communication is executed. The NFC system and the WFD system are different in wireless communication system (that is, wireless communication standard). The communication speed of WFD wireless communication is faster than the communication speed of NFC wireless communication.

For example, the MFP 10 connects to the portable terminal 50 according to the WFD method (hereinafter referred to as “WF”).
A WFD network can be established by establishing a D connection). Similarly, the MFP 10 can establish a WFD network by establishing a WFD connection with the PC 8.

  The PC 8, the MFP 10, and the portable terminals 50 and 80 can further perform wireless communication according to normal Wi-Fi, which is different from wireless communication according to the WFD scheme. Generally speaking, the normal wireless communication in accordance with Wi-Fi is a wireless communication in which AP6 is used, and the wireless communication in accordance with the WFD method is a wireless communication in which AP6 is not used. For example, the MFP 10 can belong to the normal Wi-Fi network by establishing a connection with the AP 6 (hereinafter referred to as “normal Wi-Fi connection”) according to the normal Wi-Fi. The MFP 10 can execute wireless communication with another device (for example, the PC 8 or the portable terminal 50) belonging to the normal Wi-Fi network via the AP 6. Further, the NFC scheme and normal Wi-Fi are different in wireless communication scheme (that is, wireless communication standard). Further, the communication speed of normal Wi-Fi wireless communication is faster than the communication speed of NFC wireless communication.

(Configuration of MFP 10)
The MFP 10 includes an operation unit 12, a display unit 14, a print execution unit 16, a scan execution unit 18, a wireless LAN interface (hereinafter referred to as “I / F”) 20, an NFC I / I F22 and the control part 24 are provided. The operation unit 12 includes a plurality of keys. The user can input various instructions to the MFP 10 by operating the operation unit 12. The display unit 14 is a display for displaying various information. The print execution unit 16 is a printing mechanism such as an inkjet method or a laser method. The scan execution unit 18 is a scan mechanism such as a CCD or CIS.

  The wireless LAN I / F 20 is an interface for the control unit 24 to execute wireless communication according to the WFD method and wireless communication according to normal Wi-Fi. The wireless LAN I / F 20 is physically one interface. However, the wireless LAN I / F 20 includes a MAC address used in wireless communication in accordance with the WFD method (hereinafter referred to as “MAC address for WFD”) and a MAC address used in wireless communication in accordance with normal Wi-Fi. Both addresses (hereinafter referred to as “normal Wi-Fi MAC addresses”) are assigned. More specifically, a normal Wi-Fi MAC address is pre-assigned to the wireless LAN I / F 20. The control unit 24 uses the normal Wi-Fi MAC address to generate a WFD MAC address and assigns the WFD MAC address to the wireless LAN I / F 20. The WFD MAC address is different from the normal Wi-Fi MAC address. Therefore, the control unit 24 can simultaneously execute both wireless communication in accordance with the WFD scheme and wireless communication in accordance with normal Wi-Fi via the wireless LAN I / F 20. As a result, a situation can be established in which the MFP 10 belongs to the WFD network and also belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network. In the modification, the interface for executing wireless communication in accordance with the WFD method and the interface for executing wireless communication in accordance with normal Wi-Fi are configured by physically different chips. Also good.

  The user operates the operation unit 12 to express the setting of the wireless LAN I / F 20 as a setting capable of performing wireless communication according to the WFD method (hereinafter, “WFDI / F setting is ON”). ) And a setting incapable of performing wireless communication in accordance with the WFD method (hereinafter referred to as “WFDI / F setting is OFF”). The CPU 30 stores a value (ON or OFF) indicating the WFDI / F setting set by the user in the memory 32.

The NFC I / F 22 is an interface for the control unit 24 to perform NFC wireless communication. The wireless LAN I / F 20 and the NFC I / F 22 are configured by physically different chips.

  Note that the communication speed of wireless communication via the wireless LAN I / F 20 (for example, the maximum communication speed is 11 to 600 Mbps) is the communication speed of wireless communication via the NFC I / F 22 (for example, the maximum communication speed is 106 to 424 kbps). ) Faster than. Furthermore, the frequency of the carrier wave (for example, 2.4 GHz band and 5.0 GHz band) in the wireless communication via the wireless LAN I / F 20 is the frequency of the carrier wave (for example, 13.56 MHz band) in the wireless communication via the NFC I / F 22. Is different. When the distance between the MFP 10 and the portable terminals 50 and 80 is approximately 10 cm or less, the CPU 30 can execute NFC wireless communication with the portable terminals 50 and 80 via the NFC I / F 22. On the other hand, regardless of whether the distance between the MFP 10 and the portable terminals 50 and 80 is 10 cm or less or 10 cm or more (for example, about 100 m at the maximum), the CPU 30 uses the WFD system via the wireless LAN I / F 20. Wireless communication in accordance with the mobile terminal 50 and 80, and wireless communication in accordance with normal Wi-Fi. That is, the maximum distance that the MFP 10 can execute wireless communication with a communication destination device (for example, the portable terminal 50) via the wireless LAN I / F 20 is the maximum distance that the MFP 10 can communicate with the communication destination device via the NFC I / F 22. It is larger than the maximum distance at which wireless communication can be performed.

  The control unit 24 includes a CPU 30 and a memory 32. The CPU 30 executes various processes according to programs stored in the memory 32. The memory 32 includes a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk, and the like. The memory 32 stores the above program executed by the CPU 30.

  The program includes an application program and a protocol stack. The application program is a program for the CPU 30 to execute processing of the application layer of the OSI reference model. The protocol stack is a program for the CPU 30 to execute processing in a lower layer than the application layer of the OSI reference model. The protocol stack includes a P2P (Peer to Peer) program, an R / W program, and a CE program. The P2P program is a program for executing processing according to the NFC standard P2P mode. The R / W program is a program for executing processing according to the NFC standard Reader / Writer mode. The CE program is a program for executing processing according to the NFC standard CE (abbreviation for Card Emulation) mode. These programs are programs for executing processing compliant with the NFC standard defined by the NFC Forum.

  When the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network, the CPU 30 stores information indicating that the MFP 10 currently belongs to the WFD network and target data (for example, print data, scan, etc.) via the WFD network. Wireless setting (including authentication method, encryption method, password, wireless network SSID (abbreviation of Service Set Identifier), BSSID (abbreviation of Basic Service Set Identifier)) . When the MFP 10 currently belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network, the CPU 30 communicates information indicating that the MFP 10 currently belongs to the normal Wi-Fi network and target data via the normal Wi-Fi network. The wireless setting for executing is stored in the memory 32. The SSID is an identifier for identifying a wireless network, and the BSSID is a unique identifier of an access point that constructs the wireless network (that is, a device in a G / O state (described later) in the case of a WFD network). (For example, a MAC address).

The memory 32 further stores a value (ON or OFF) indicating the WFDI / F setting. Note that the control unit 24 cannot execute each process according to the WFD method when the WFDI / F setting in the memory 32 is OFF. When the WFDI / F setting is ON,
The memory 32 further stores a value indicating the current state of the MFP 10 related to the WFD method (any one of the G / O state, the client state, and the device state).

  The memory 32 further includes an application program (hereinafter referred to as an “MFP application”) for another device (for example, the portable terminal 50) to execute various functions (printing function, scanning function, etc.) using the MFP 10. A URL (hereinafter referred to as “application download URL”) for downloading to another device is stored. Further, the memory 32 is a URL of a web page (hereinafter referred to as “support page”) indicating a method for resolving an apparatus error occurring in the MFP 10 (for example, a paper jam occurring in the print execution unit 16 or a malfunction of the printing mechanism). URL ”). The device error will be described in detail later. Further, the memory 32 stores a URL of a web page for introducing consumables (for example, ink (toner), paper, etc.) used in the MFP 10 (hereinafter referred to as “consumables page URL”). The application download URL, support page URL, and consumables page URL are stored in the memory 32 in advance by the vendor of the MFP 10.

  The memory 32 further stores a value (ON or OFF) indicating the application URL supply mode setting. Here, the “application URL supply mode” is a mode for supplying the application download URL to another terminal. The user can turn ON / OFF the setting of the application URL supply mode by operating the operation unit 12. The CPU 30 stores a value (ON or OFF) indicating the application URL supply mode setting set by the user in the memory 32.

  Further, the memory 32 stores a write job. When receiving a write job from the PC 8 via the AP 6, the CPU 30 stores the write job in the memory 32. The write job includes write data specified by the user (for example, URL specified by the user, text input by the user, etc.). The memory 32 stores a print job. When receiving a print job from the PC 8 via the AP 6, the CPU 30 stores the print job in the memory 32. The print job includes print data that the user desires to print. In this embodiment, as will be described later, in order for the MFP 10 to execute printing in accordance with print data, it is necessary to perform authentication using the authentication card 100.

(NFC communication)
Next, NFC communication will be described. Hereinafter, devices capable of performing NFC communication (MFP 10, portable terminals 50, 80, authentication card 100, etc.) are referred to as “NFC devices”. Hereinafter, the reader mode and the writer mode may be simply referred to as “R / W mode”.

  Some NFC devices can use all three modes of P2P mode, R / W mode, and CE mode, and only one or two of the above three modes can be used. There are also devices that can be used. In this embodiment, the MFP 10 and the portable terminals 50 and 80 are devices that can use all of the above three modes. The authentication card 100 is an NFC standard card. More specifically, the authentication card 100 can use the CE mode, but cannot use the P2P mode and the R / W mode.

The P2P mode is a mode for executing bidirectional communication between a pair of NFC devices. For example, a situation is assumed in which the P2P mode is activated in both the first NFC device and the second NFC device. In this case, a communication link corresponding to the P2P mode (hereinafter referred to as “P2P communication link”) is established between the first NFC device and the second NFC device. In this case, for example, the first NFC device transmits the first predetermined data to the second NFC device using a P2P communication link. Thereafter, the second NFC device transmits the second predetermined data to the first NFC device using the same P2P communication link. Thereby, bidirectional communication is realized. The NFC device that is Type A of ISO / IEC 1443 defined by the NFC Forum and the NFC device that is Type F of ISO / IEC 18092 can use the P2P mode, but the NFC device that is Type B of ISO / IEC 1443 is The P2P mode cannot be used.

  The R / W mode and the CE mode are modes for executing unidirectional communication between a pair of NFC devices. The CE mode is a mode for the NFC device to operate as a “card” that is a format defined by the NFC forum. Any of the Type A NFC device, the Type F NFC device, and the Type B NFC device can use the CE mode. The Reader mode is a mode for reading data from an NFC device operating as a card in the CE mode. The writer mode is a mode for writing data to an NFC device operating as a card in the CE mode. In the Reader mode, data can also be read from an NFC standard card (that is, the authentication card 100). In the writer mode, data can also be written to an NFC standard card.

  For example, it is assumed that the Reader mode is activated in the first NFC device and the CE mode is activated in the second NFC device. In this case, communication links corresponding to the Reader mode and the CE mode are established between the first NFC device and the second NFC device. In this case, the first NFC device uses the communication link to execute an operation for reading data from the pseudo card in the second NFC device, so that the data is transferred from the second NFC device. Receive.

  Further, for example, a situation is assumed in which the writer mode is activated in the first NFC device and the CE mode is activated in the second NFC device. In this case, a communication link corresponding to the writer mode and the CE mode is established between the first NFC device and the second NFC device. In this case, the first NFC device uses the communication link to execute an operation for writing data to a pseudo card in the second NFC device, thereby transferring the data to the second NFC device. Send.

  As described above, in order for a pair of NFC devices to perform NFC communication, various mode combinations are possible. For example, as a combination of modes of a pair of NFC devices, the following five patterns, namely, “P2P mode, P2P mode”, “Reader mode, CE mode”, “Writer mode, CE mode”, “CE mode, Reader mode” "," CE mode, Writer mode ".

  Note that the NFC device cannot form a state in which both the Reader mode and the Writer mode are activated. In other words, if the NFC device has activated the Reader mode, it has stopped the Writer mode. In addition, the NFC device stops the Reader mode if the Writer mode is activated.

  In addition, the NFC device can establish a communication link corresponding to the activated mode, but cannot establish a communication link corresponding to the unactivated mode. For example, when the CE mode is activated in the MFP 10 and the P2P mode and the R / W mode are not activated, the MFP 10 can establish a communication link for the MFP 10 to operate in the CE mode. Another communication link (that is, a communication link for the MFP 10 to operate in the P2P mode, the Reader mode, or the Writer mode) cannot be established.

(WFD)
Next, WFD will be described. WFD is a standard established by the Wi-Fi Alliance. WFD is described in “Wi-Fi Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Technical Specification Version 1.1” created by Wi-Fi Alliance.

  As described above, the PC 8, the MFP 10, and the portable terminals 50 and 80 can each perform wireless communication in accordance with the WFD scheme. Hereinafter, a device capable of performing wireless communication in accordance with the WFD method is referred to as “WFD-compatible device”. In the WFD standard, three states of a Group Owner state (hereinafter referred to as “G / O state”), a client state, and a device state are defined as states of a WFD-compatible device. The WFD compatible device can selectively operate in one of the above three states.

  A WFD network is configured by the devices in the G / O state and the devices in the client state. In the WFD network, there can be only one device in the G / O state, but there can be one or more devices in the client state. A device in the G / O state manages one or more devices in the client state. More specifically, the G / O state device generates a management list in which identification information (that is, MAC address) of each of one or more client state devices is described. When the device in the G / O state newly belongs to the WFD network, the device in the G / O state adds the identification information of the device to the management list, and when the device in the client state leaves the WFD network, the identification information of the device is added. Clear from management list.

  A device in the G / O state is registered with a device registered in the management list, that is, a device in a client state (that is, a device belonging to the WFD network) with target data (for example, in the network layer of the OSI reference model). Wireless communication of data including information (print data, scan data, etc.) can be performed. However, a device in the G / O state is connected to an unregistered device that is not registered in the management list, so that the unregistered device participates in the WFD network (for example, data that does not include network layer information ( Wireless communication of physical layer data such as a probe request signal and a probe response signal can be performed, but wireless communication of the above-described target data cannot be performed. Print data can be received wirelessly from the mobile terminal 50 registered in the client (that is, the mobile terminal 50 in the client state), but cannot be received wirelessly from a device not registered in the management list.

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

  Note that a WFD compatible device that does not belong to the WFD network (that is, a device that is not registered in the management list) is a device in a device state. The device in the device state can execute wireless communication of data (physical layer data such as a probe request signal and a probe response signal) for participating in the WFD network, but the target data (print data) is transmitted via the WFD network. Wireless communication of scan data, etc.).

(Configuration of portable terminals 50 and 80)
The mobile terminal 50 is, for example, a mobile phone (for example, a smartphone), a PDA, a notebook PC,
It is a portable terminal such as a tablet PC, a portable music player, or a portable video player. The mobile terminal 80 has the same configuration as the mobile terminal 50. The portable terminal 50 includes an operation unit 52, a display unit 54, a wireless LAN I / F 56, an NFC I / F 58, and a control unit 60. The operation unit 52 includes a plurality of keys. The display unit 54 is a display for displaying various information. In the modification, the mobile terminal 50 may have a touch panel having both functions of the operation unit 52 and the display unit 54.

  The wireless LAN I / F 56 and the NFC I / F 58 are interfaces similar to the wireless LAN I / F 20 and the NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10, respectively. That is, the control unit 60 can simultaneously execute both wireless communication according to the WFD scheme and wireless communication according to normal Wi-Fi via the wireless LAN I / F 56. In addition, the control unit 60 can execute wireless communication according to the NFC scheme via the NFC I / F 58.

  The control unit 60 includes a CPU 62 and a memory 64. The CPU 62 executes various processes according to the program stored in the memory 64. The memory 64 includes a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk, and the like. The memory 64 stores the above program executed by the CPU 62. The program includes an application program and a protocol stack as in the case of the MFP 10. The application programs include application programs (hereinafter referred to as “MFP applications”) for causing the MFP 10 to execute various functions (for example, a print function, a scan function, etc.). As will be described later with reference to FIG. 7, upon receiving the application download URL from the MFP 10, the CPU 62 accesses an Internet server (not shown) provided by the vendor of the MFP 10 according to the application download URL, and the application program from the server. Download. Thereafter, the CPU 62 installs the downloaded MFP application in the memory 64.

  The memory 64 stores a first OS (abbreviation for Operation System) program. The first OS program causes the mobile terminal 50 to operate as follows. That is, when the mobile terminal 50 is turned on, the mobile terminal 50 is in the initial state in which the Reader mode is activated and the other modes are not activated. The portable terminal 50 maintains the above initial state when the MFP application is not installed. Even if the MFP application is installed, the portable terminal 50 maintains the above-described initial state when the MFP application is not activated. When the MFP application is activated, the portable terminal 50 shifts from the initial state to the state where the P2P mode is activated and the other modes (R / W mode and CE mode) are not activated.

(Configuration of authentication card 100)
The authentication card 100 is a card given to the user of the PC 8. As described above, the authentication card 100 is an NFC standard card and can use the CE mode, but cannot use the P2P mode and the R / W mode. In the communication system 2 according to the present exemplary embodiment, when the MFP 10 belongs to a wireless network including the AP 6 and the PC 8, the MFP 10 receives a print job from the PC 8 via the AP 6. The print job includes print data. Even when the MFP 10 receives a print job from the PC 6, the MFP 10 does not start printing until the authentication using the authentication card 100 is successful. The authentication card 100 stores authentication data (for example, a user ID and a password) for authenticating with the MFP 10. As will be described later with reference to FIG. 9, the user of the PC 8 transmits the print job from the PC 8 to the MFP 10, and then brings the authentication card 100 closer to the MFP 10. The MFP 10 receives authentication data (for example, a user ID and password) from the authentication card 100 and executes an authentication process. When the authentication is successful, the MFP 10 starts printing. As a result, the user of the PC 8 can obtain a printed material when the user is near the MFP 10. That is, it is possible to suppress the printed matter from being taken away by a third party.

(Poll operation and Listen operation)
Next, the poll operation and listen operation executed by the NFC device will be described. For example, in the MFP 10, the CPU 30 does not execute the poll operation and the listen operation according to the program, but the NFC I / F 22 executes the poll operation and the listen operation. The poll operation is an operation for transmitting a polling signal and receiving a response signal for the polling signal. The Listen operation is an operation that receives a polling signal and transmits a response signal to the polling signal.

  The NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10 performs a poll mode for executing the poll operation, a listen mode for executing the listen operation, and a mode in which neither the poll operation nor the listen operation is executed (hereinafter referred to as “non-execution mode”). ) And any one of the modes. The NFC I / F 22 sequentially operates in a poll mode, a listen mode, and a non-execution mode. For example, the NFC I / F 22 performs a set of operations that operate in the poll mode, then operate in the listen mode, and then operate in the non-execution mode. The NFC I / F 22 repeatedly executes the above one set of operations.

  In the poll mode, the NFC I / F 22 transmits a polling signal and monitors whether a response signal is received. Specifically, the NFC I / F 22 transmits a polling signal (that is, a polling signal corresponding to Type A) that can be responded to by the Type A NFC device, and monitors the reception of the response signal for a predetermined time. ) If a response signal is not received, a polling signal that can be responded by a Type B NFC device (that is, a polling signal corresponding to Type B) is transmitted, and reception of the response signal is monitored for a predetermined time, and (3) a response signal is received. Otherwise, the operation of transmitting a polling signal (that is, a polling signal corresponding to TypeF) that can be answered by the Type F NFC device and monitoring the reception of the response signal for a predetermined time is repeated. When the NFC I / F 22 receives a response signal from an NFC device (that is, a communication partner) within a predetermined time, the communication partner is a Type NFC device corresponding to the polling signal received immediately before the response signal is transmitted. It can be said. When the NFC I / F 22 receives the response signal, the NFC I / F 22 further transmits an inquiry signal for inquiring which mode the NFC device that is the transmission source of the response signal is activated to the communication partner.

  In the Listen mode, the NFC I / F 22 monitors reception of a polling signal and transmits a response signal when receiving the polling signal. The NFC I / F 22 transmits a response signal to the NFC device (that is, the communication partner) that transmitted the polling signal only when it receives the type polling signal corresponding to the NFC I / F 22. When the NFC I / F 22 transmits a response signal to the communication partner, the NFC I / F 22 further receives an inquiry signal from the communication partner and transmits an activation mode signal to the communication partner.

  In the non-execution mode, the NFC I / F 22 does not transmit a polling signal, and does not transmit a response signal even when the polling signal is received.

Each of the portable terminals 50 and 80 also repeatedly executes the above one set of operations. Therefore, for example, the distance between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 is less than 10 cm, and the period in which the NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10 operates in the poll mode and the period in which the portable terminal 50 operates in the listen mode match. If so, the NFC I / F 22 transmits a polling signal to the portable terminal 50 and executes a poll operation for receiving a response signal from the portable terminal 50. Further, for example, if the distance between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 is less than 10 cm, and the period during which the NFC I / F 22 operates in the Listen mode matches the period during which the portable terminal 50 operates in the Poll mode, NFCI / F22 receives the polling signal from the portable terminal 50 and executes the Listen operation for transmitting the response signal to the portable terminal 50. In the following description, the NFC device that has performed the poll operation and the NFC device that has performed the listen operation are referred to as “Poll device” and “Listen device”, respectively.

  When the NFC I / F 22 performs a poll operation, that is, when the MFP 10 is a poll device, each process for subsequent communication is taken over by the CPU 30. Specifically, first, information indicating which mode of operation the communication partner (for example, the portable terminal 50) that is the Listen device can execute (that is, information indicated by the received start mode signal) is NFCI. / F22 to CPU30.

  For example, the current state of the MFP 10 that is a poll device is a state in which the P2P mode is activated, the CE mode and the R / W mode are not activated, and information received from the NFC I / F 22 However, if the communication partner that is the listen device indicates that the P2P mode is activated, the CPU 30 transmits an activation command corresponding to the P2P mode to the communication partner, and receives an OK command from the communication partner. As a result, a communication link in the P2P mode is established between the MFP 10 that is the poll device and the communication partner that is the listen device.

  Further, for example, the current state of the MFP 10 that is the Listen device is a state in which the P2P mode is activated and the CE mode is not activated, and the current state of the communication partner that is the Poll device is the P2P mode. When is activated, the CPU 30 receives an activation command corresponding to the P2P mode from the communication partner. In this case, the CPU 30 determines that the MFP 10 should operate in the P2P mode, and transmits an OK command to the communication partner. As a result, a P2P communication link is established between the MFP 10 that is the listen device and the communication partner that is the poll device.

  Also, for example, the current state of the MFP 10 that is the Listen device is a state in which the CE mode is activated, the P2P mode is not activated, and the current state of the communication partner that is the Poll device is the Reader mode. Alternatively, when the writer mode is activated, the CPU 32 receives an activation command corresponding to the R / W mode from the communication partner. In this case, the CPU 32 determines that the MFP 10 should operate in the CE mode, and transmits an OK command to the communication partner. As a result, communication links corresponding to the CE mode and the R / W mode are established between the MFP 10 that is the Listen device and the communication partner that is the Poll device.

  When a communication link corresponding to the CE mode and the R / W mode is established, the CPU 32 further receives information indicating whether the communication partner operates in the reader mode or the writer mode from the communication partner. To do. Therefore, for example, when information indicating that the communication partner operates in the Reader mode is received, communication corresponding to the CE mode and the Reader mode is performed between the MFP 10 that is the Listen device and the communication partner that is the Poll device. It can be said that a link (hereinafter referred to as "MFP (CE) -other party (R) communication link") is established. Further, for example, when information indicating that the communication partner operates in the writer mode is received, communication corresponding to the CE mode and the writer mode is performed between the MFP 10 that is the listen device and the communication partner that is the poll device. It can be said that a link (hereinafter referred to as “MFP (CE) -other party (W) communication link”) is established.

Also, for example, the current state of the MFP 10 that is a poll device is a state in which the writer mode is activated and other modes are not activated, and information received from the NFC I / F 22 is the listen device. If the communication partner is indicating that the P2P mode is activated, a communication link is not established between the MFP 10 that is the Poll device and the communication partner that is the Listen device. However, the CPU 30 can detect that the communication partner is in the P2P mode (YES in S76 of FIG. 4 described later).

  Similarly, the current state of the MFP 10 that is the poll device is that the Reader mode is activated and the other mode is not activated, and the information passed from the NFC I / F 22 is When the communication partner that is the listen device indicates that the P2P mode is activated, a communication link is not established between the MFP 10 that is the poll device and the communication partner that is the listen device. However, also in this case, the CPU 30 can detect that the communication partner is in the P2P mode (YES in S98 of FIG. 5 described later).

(Configuration of PC8)
The PC 8 includes a wireless LAN I / F (that is, an interface for WFD and normal Wi-Fi), but does not include an NFC I / F. Accordingly, the PC 8 can execute communication with the MFP 10 using the wireless LAN, but cannot execute NFC wireless communication. The PC 8 includes a driver program for causing the MFP 10 to execute a function (for example, a print function, a scan function, etc.). Note that the driver program is normally installed in the PC 8 from a medium shipped with the MFP 10. However, in a modification, the driver program may be installed on the PC 8 from a server provided by the vendor of the MFP 10.

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

(Communication process of MFP 10; FIG. 2)
Next, with reference to FIG. 2, the contents of communication processing executed by the CPU 30 of the MFP 10 according to the program will be described. When the power of the MFP 10 is turned on, the CPU 30 starts the communication process of FIG. When starting the communication process, the CPU 30 sequentially executes the determinations of S10, S12, S14, S16, and S18.

In S <b> 10, the CPU 30 determines whether an apparatus error has occurred in the MFP 10. Here, the device error means an error that occurs for a reason other than out of consumables. For example, a paper jam that occurs in the print execution unit 16 or a failure in the printing mechanism is an example of an apparatus error. A document feed mechanism failure, a sensor failure, and the like that occur in the scan execution unit 18 are examples of apparatus errors. In S10, the CPU 30 checks the status of each unit (print execution unit 16, scan execution unit 18, etc.) of the MFP 10. As a result, when it is determined that the device error has occurred, the CPU 30 determines YES in S10 and proceeds to S24. In S24, the CPU 30 activates the CE mode. Thereby, the MFP 10 operates in the CE mode. At this time, other modes (P2P mode and R / W mode) are not activated. Next, in S <b> 26, the CPU 30 registers, in the NFC I / F 22, a URL (support page URL) of a web page indicating a method for eliminating an apparatus error of the MFP 10. More specifically, the CPU 30 stores the support page URL stored in the memory 32 in a chip constituting the NFC I / F 22. When S26 ends, the CPU 30 proceeds to S36 and executes a CE mode process (see FIG. 3) described later. On the other hand, if it is determined that the MFP 10 has not determined an apparatus error, the CPU 30 determines NO in S10 and proceeds to S12.

  In S <b> 12, the CPU 30 determines whether a consumable error has occurred in the MFP 10. The consumable error means that the remaining amount of consumables such as toner (ink) and paper in the print execution unit 16 is zero. The CPU 30 checks the remaining amount of consumables in the print execution unit 16, and when it is determined that the remaining amount of consumables is zero, the CPU 30 determines YES in S12 and proceeds to S28. In S28, the CPU 30 activates the CE mode. Thereby, the MFP 10 operates in the CE mode. At this time, other modes (P2P mode and R / W mode) are not activated. Next, in S <b> 30, the CPU 30 registers a URL (consumables page URL) of a web page for introducing consumables (ink (toner), paper, etc.) used in the MFP 10 in the NFC I / F 22. More specifically, the CPU 30 stores the consumables page URL stored in the memory 32 in the chip constituting the NFC I / F 22. When S30 ends, the CPU 30 proceeds to S36 and executes a CE mode process (see FIG. 3) described later. On the other hand, when it is determined that the remaining amount of the consumable item is not zero, the CPU 30 determines NO in S12 and proceeds to S14.

  In S <b> 14, the CPU 30 determines whether the application URL supply mode is set in the MFP 10. Specifically, in S14, the CPU 30 checks whether or not the value indicating the application URL supply mode setting stored in the memory 32 is ON. When the value indicating the application URL supply mode setting is ON, the CPU 30 determines YES in S14 and proceeds to S32. In S32, the CPU 30 activates the CE mode. Thereby, the MFP 10 operates in the CE mode. At this time, other modes (P2P mode and R / W mode) are not activated. Next, in S <b> 34, the CPU 30 registers the application download URL in the NFC I / F 22. Specifically, the CPU 30 stores the application download URL stored in the memory 32 in a chip that constitutes the NFC I / F 22. When S34 ends, the CPU 30 proceeds to S36 and executes a CE mode process (see FIG. 3) described later. On the other hand, if the value indicating the application URL supply mode setting stored in the memory 32 is OFF, the CPU 30 determines NO in S14 and proceeds to S16.

  In S16, the CPU 30 determines whether or not there is a write job. Specifically, in S <b> 16, the CPU 30 determines whether or not a write job is stored in the memory 32. As described above, when receiving a write job from the PC 8 via the AP 6, the CPU 30 stores the received write job in the memory 32. When the write job is stored in the memory 32, the CPU 30 determines YES in S16, and proceeds to S38. In S38, the CPU 30 activates the writer mode. As a result, the MFP 10 operates in the writer mode. At this time, other modes are not activated. Next, in S40, the CPU 30 executes a writer mode process (see FIG. 4) described later. On the other hand, if the write job is not stored in the memory 32, the CPU 30 determines NO in S16 and proceeds to S18. In other words, according to this configuration, the MFP 10 is not in a state where the URL (support page URL, consumables page URL, or application download URL) should be transmitted to the outside, but in a state where a write job exists. Can be appropriately operated in the writer mode (YES in S16).

In S18, the CPU 30 monitors whether there is a print job that requires authentication. Specifically, in S <b> 18, the CPU 30 determines whether a print job is stored in the memory 32. As described above, when receiving a print job from the PC 8 via the AP 6, the CPU 30 stores the received print job in the memory 32. As mentioned above, MF
P10 does not execute printing unless authentication is performed using the authentication card 100. If a print job is stored in the memory 32, the CPU 30 determines YES in S18 and proceeds to S42. In S42, the CPU 30 activates the Reader mode. As a result, the MFP 10 operates in the Reader mode. At this time, other modes are not activated. Next, in S44, the CPU 30 executes a later-described reader mode process (see FIG. 5). On the other hand, if no print job is stored in the memory 32, the CPU 30 determines NO in S18 and proceeds to S20. In other words, according to this configuration, the MFP 10 can be in either the state in which the MFP 10 should transmit a URL (support page URL, consumables page URL, or application download URL) to the outside, or a state in which a write job exists. If it is determined that there is no print job (YES in S18), the reader mode can be appropriately operated.

  In S20, the CPU 30 activates the P2P mode. As a result, the MFP 10 operates in the P2P mode. At this time, other modes are not activated. Next, in S22, the CPU 30 executes a P2P mode process (see FIG. 6) described later.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the MFP 10 determines NO in any of S10, S12, S14, S16, and S18 in FIG. 2, the MFP 10 sets the operation mode of the MFP 10 to the P2P mode (S20). That is, when the MFP 10 operates in the P2P mode, the MFP 10 is in a state in which a URL (support page URL, consumables page URL, or application download URL) should be transmitted to the outside, a write job exists, a print job Is not in any state. Therefore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the MFP 10 can operate in an appropriate operation mode according to the state of the MFP 10.

(CE mode processing; FIG. 3)
Next, the contents of the CE mode process (S36 in FIG. 2) executed by the CPU 30 of the MFP 10 will be described with reference to FIG. The CE mode process is a process executed by the CPU 30 of the MFP 10 operating in the CE mode. When the CE mode process is started, the CPU 30 executes monitoring of S50 and S54.

  In S50, the CPU 30 monitors whether a communication link of MFP (CE) -partner (R) is established. As described above, when the CPU 30 receives an activation command corresponding to the reader mode from the communication partner (for example, the portable terminal 50), the CPU 30 determines that the communication link of MFP (CE) -partner (R) has been established. In this case, the CPU 30 determines YES in S50 and ends the CE mode process (S36 in FIGS. 3 and 2).

  When the MFP (CE) -partner (R) communication link is established (YES in S50), the NFC I / F 22 uses the established MFP (CE) -partner (R) communication link, The registered URL (support page URL, consumables page URL, or application download URL) is automatically transmitted to the communication partner. According to this configuration, the MFP 10 appropriately transmits a URL (support page URL, consumables page URL, or application download URL) to the communication partner using the MFP (CE) -partner (R) communication link. obtain.

  In S54, the CPU 30 monitors whether a communication link of MFP (CE) -partner (W) is established. As described above, when the CPU 30 receives an activation command corresponding to the writer mode from a communication partner (for example, the portable terminal 50) operating in the writer mode, the communication link of MFP (CE) -partner (W) is established. Judge that In this case, the CPU 30 determines YES in S54, and proceeds to S56.

  In S <b> 56, the CPU 30 monitors whether an execution request is received from the communication partner via the NFC I / F 22 using the MFP (CE) -partner (W) communication link. The execution request is a request signal for requesting execution of a specific function (scanning function, printing function) of the MFP 10. When receiving an execution request from a communication partner operating in the writer mode, the CPU 30 determines YES in S56 and proceeds to S58. On the other hand, when the execution request cannot be received from the communication partner even after the predetermined timeout period has elapsed, or when information other than the execution request is received from the communication partner, the CPU 30 determines NO in S56, Proceed to S64.

  In S <b> 58, the CPU 30 determines whether the MFP 10 can execute the specific function indicated by the execution request. For example, when the specific function is printing, in S58, the CPU 30 checks the status of the print execution unit 16, and checks for a paper error, a device error such as a malfunction of the printing mechanism, or a toner (ink) runout, a paper runout, etc. It is determined whether or not a consumable error has occurred. As a result, if neither a device error nor a consumable error has occurred in the print execution unit 16, the CPU 30 determines that the function can be executed. When the specific function is printing, even if an apparatus error has occurred in the scan execution unit 18, the CPU 30 determines that the function is executable (printable). In this case, the CPU 30 determines YES in S58, and proceeds to S60. On the other hand, when the specific function is printing, if at least one of an apparatus error and a consumable error has occurred in the print execution unit 16, the CPU 30 determines that the function cannot be executed. In this case, the CPU 30 determines NO in S58, and proceeds to S64.

  Similarly, for example, when the specific function is scanning, in S58, the CPU 30 checks the state of the scan execution unit 18 to determine whether an apparatus error (failure of the document feed mechanism, sensor failure, etc.) has occurred. Determine whether. As a result, if no device error has occurred in the scan execution unit 18, the CPU 30 determines that the function can be executed. When the specific function is scanning, even if an apparatus error or a consumable error has occurred in the print execution unit 16, the CPU 30 determines that the function can be executed (scannable). In this case, the CPU 30 determines YES in S58, and proceeds to S60. On the other hand, when a specific function is scanning and an apparatus error has occurred in the scan execution unit 18, the CPU 30 determines that the function cannot be executed. In this case, the CPU 30 determines NO in S58, and proceeds to S64.

  In S64, the CPU 30 causes the display unit 14 to display an error screen including a message indicating that the specific function cannot be executed. When S64 ends, the CPU 30 ends the CE mode process (S36 in FIGS. 3 and 2).

  In S60, the CPU 30 stops the CE mode and activates the P2P mode. Specifically, first, the CPU 30 disconnects the communication link of MFP (CE) -partner (W). That is, the CPU 30 executes communication of a Deactivation command and an OK command. In the NFC standard, it is determined that the Poll device transmits the Deactivation command, that is, the Listen device receives the Deactivation command. When the communication link between MFP (CE) and the other party (W) is disconnected, the other party is a poll device, and the MFP 10 is a listen device. For this purpose, the CPU 30 receives a Deactivation command from the communication partner via the NFC I / F 22, and transmits an OK command to the communication partner via the NFC I / F 22. As a result, the communication link between MFP (CE) and partner (W) is disconnected. After the MFP (CE) -partner (W) communication link is disconnected, the CPU 30 stops the CE mode and activates the P2P mode. As a result, the MFP 10 operates in the P2P mode. Next, the CPU 30 proceeds to S62 and executes a later-described P2P mode process (see FIG. 6). When the P2P mode process of S62 ends, the CPU 30 ends the CE mode process.

If neither the MFP (CE) -party (R) communication link nor the MFP (CE) -party (W) communication link is established, the CPU 30 determines NO in S50 and S54, The CE mode process is terminated.

  When the CE mode process (S36 in FIGS. 3 and 2) ends, the CPU 30 returns to S10 in FIG. 2 and executes the determination in S10 again. Thereafter, if YES is determined in any of S12, S14, and S16 in FIG. 2, the CPU 30 executes the CE mode process in FIG. 3 again.

(Writer mode processing; FIG. 4)
Next, the contents of the writer mode process (S40 in FIG. 2) executed by the CPU 30 of the MFP 10 will be described with reference to FIG. The writer mode process is a process executed by the CPU 30 of the MFP 10 operating in the writer mode. When the writer mode process is started, the CPU 30 executes monitoring of S70 and S76.

  In S <b> 70, the CPU 30 monitors whether a communication link of MFP (W) -partner (CE) is established. When the CPU 30 transmits an activation command corresponding to the writer mode to the communication partner (for example, the authentication card 100) operating in the CE mode and receives an OK command from the communication partner, the MFP (W) -the partner (CE) It is determined that the communication link is established. In this case, the CPU 30 determines YES in S70, and proceeds to S72.

  In S72, the CPU 30 uses the mobile terminal (W) -party (CE) communication link to write data included in the write job stored in the memory 32 (for example, URL specified by the user, input by the user). Sent to the communication partner (for example, the authentication card 100). In subsequent S74, the CPU 30 deletes the write job in the memory 32. When S74 ends, the CPU 30 ends the writer mode process (S40 in FIGS. 4 and 2).

  In S76, the CPU 30 monitors that a device operating in the P2P mode is detected. As described above, the MFP 10 operates in the writer mode. That is, the MFP 10 is a poll device. Further, as described above, the device that operates in the P2P mode repeatedly executes the poll operation and the listen operation. Therefore, while a device operating in the P2P mode (hereinafter referred to as “specific device”) is performing the Listen operation, the specific device receives a polling signal transmitted by the NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10. When the specific device receives the polling signal, the specific device transmits a response signal to the NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10. When the NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10 receives a response signal from a specific device, the NFC I / F 22 transmits an inquiry signal for inquiring to the specific device which mode it is operating in. When the specific device receives the inquiry signal, the specific device transmits an activation mode signal indicating that the device is operating in the P2P mode to the NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10. The NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10 receives an activation mode signal indicating that it is operating in the P2P mode from a specific device. The NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10 passes a startup mode signal indicating that the specific device is operating in the P2P mode to the CPU 30. In this case, the CPU 30 determines YES in S76, and proceeds to S78.

  In S78, the CPU 30 stops the writer mode and activates the P2P mode. As a result, the MFP 10 operates in the writer mode. Next, the CPU 30 proceeds to S80 and executes a P2P mode process (see FIG. 6) described later. When the P2P mode process of S80 is completed, the CPU 30 ends the writer mode process.

  If the MFP (W) -peer (CE) communication link is not established and no device operating in the P2P mode is detected, the CPU 30 determines NO in S70 and S76, and performs the writer mode process. Exit.

  When the writer mode process (S40 in FIGS. 4 and 2) ends, the CPU 30 returns to S10 in FIG. 2 and executes the determination in S10 again. Thereafter, when YES is determined in S <b> 16 of FIG. 2, the CPU 30 executes the writer mode process of FIG. 4 again.

(Reader mode processing; FIG. 5)
Next, the contents of the Reader mode process (S44 in FIG. 2) executed by the CPU 30 of the MFP 10 will be described with reference to FIG. The Reader mode process is a process executed by the CPU 30 of the MFP 10 that operates in the Reader mode. When the Reader mode process is started, the CPU 30 executes monitoring in S90 and S98.

  In S90, the CPU 30 monitors whether a communication link of MFP (R) -partner (CE) is established. When the CPU 30 transmits an activation command corresponding to the reader mode to a communication partner (for example, the authentication card 100) operating in the CE mode and receives an OK command from the communication partner, the MFP (R) -the partner (CE) It is determined that the communication link is established. In this case, the CPU 30 determines YES in S90, and proceeds to S92.

  In S92, the CPU 30 receives the authentication data from the communication partner (for example, the authentication card 100) via the NFC I / F 22 using the MFP (R) -partner (CE) communication link. Next, in S94, the CPU 30 executes an authentication process using the received authentication data. When the authentication is successful, the CPU 30 causes the print execution unit 16 to print the image represented by the print data included in the print job. When printing is completed, the process proceeds to S96. In S <b> 96, the CPU 30 deletes the print job in the memory 32. When S96 ends, the CPU 30 ends the Reader mode process (S44 in FIGS. 5 and 2).

  In S98, the CPU 30 monitors whether a device (specific device) operating in the P2P mode is detected. As described above, the MFP 10 operates in the Reader mode. That is, the MFP 10 is a poll device. Further, as described above, a specific device that operates in the P2P mode repeatedly executes the poll operation and the listen operation. Therefore, the specific device receives the polling signal transmitted by the NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10 while the specific device is performing the Listen operation. When the specific device receives the polling signal, the specific device transmits a response signal to the NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10. When the NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10 receives a response signal from a specific device, the NFC I / F 22 transmits an inquiry signal for inquiring to the specific device which mode it is operating in. When the specific device receives the inquiry signal, the specific device transmits an activation mode signal indicating that the device is operating in the P2P mode to the NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10. The NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10 receives an activation mode signal indicating that it is operating in the P2P mode from a specific device. The NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10 passes information indicating that the specific device is operating in the P2P mode to the CPU 30. In this case, the CPU 30 determines YES in S98 and proceeds to S100.

  In S100, the CPU 30 stops the Reader mode and activates the P2P mode. As a result, the MFP 10 operates in the Reader mode. Next, the CPU 30 proceeds to S102 and executes a later-described P2P mode process (see FIG. 6). When the P2P mode process of S102 is completed, the CPU 30 ends the Reader mode process.

  If the MFP (R) -peer (CE) communication link is not established and no device operating in the P2P mode is detected, the CPU 30 determines NO in S90 and S98, and performs Reader mode processing. Exit.

When the Reader mode process (S44 in FIGS. 5 and 2) ends, the CPU 30 returns to S10 in FIG. 2 and executes the determination in S10 again. Thereafter, when it is determined YES in S18 of FIG. 2, the CPU 30 executes the Reader mode process of FIG. 5 again.

(P2P mode processing; FIG. 6)
Next, the contents of the P2P mode process (S22 in FIG. 2, S62 in FIG. 3, S80 in FIG. 4, and S102 in FIG. 5) executed by the CPU 30 of the MFP 10 will be described with reference to FIG. The P2P mode process is a process executed by the CPU 30 of the MFP 10 operating in the P2P mode. When the P2P mode process is started, the CPU 30 executes the monitoring of S110.

  In S110, the CPU 30 monitors whether a P2P communication link is established. As described above, for example, when the MFP 10 is a Poll device, the CPU 30 transmits an activation command corresponding to the P2P mode to a communication partner (for example, the portable terminal 50) operating in the P2P mode, and the communication partner OKs. When a command is received, it is determined that a P2P communication link has been established. In this case, the CPU 30 determines YES in S110, and proceeds to S112. For example, when the MFP 10 is a listen device, the CPU 30 receives an activation command corresponding to the P2P mode from a communication partner (for example, the portable terminal 50) operating in the P2P mode, and transmits an OK command to the communication partner. If it does, it is determined that a P2P communication link has been established. Also in this case, the CPU 30 determines YES in S110, and proceeds to S112.

  In S112, the CPU 30 uses the P2P communication link to execute bidirectional communication (hereinafter, referred to as “P2P communication”) with the communication partner (for example, the portable terminal 50) via the NFC I / F 22. To do. Specifically, first, the CPU 30 receives an execution request for requesting execution of a specific function and network information related to the network to which the communication partner belongs from the communication partner. However, if the execution request has already been received from the communication partner at S112 (YES in S56 in FIG. 3, YES in S58), the CPU 30 does not receive the execution request again from the communication partner. More detailed contents of the network information will be described later. Next, the CPU 30 sets setting information (authentication method, encryption method, password, SSID, BSSID, etc.) indicating the wireless setting of the network to which the communication partner belongs, and change-unnecessary information indicating that setting change is not necessary. Send one of them. The content of the bidirectional communication executed in S112 differs depending on whether or not the communication partner belongs to the network, as will be described below. Hereinafter, the contents of the bidirectional communication executed in S112 will be described for each case.

(Two-way communication when communication partner belongs to network (S112))
When the communication partner belongs to the network, first, the communication partner requests the MFP 10 to execute a specific function, and the wireless setting (SSID, WSID network) of the network (wireless LAN or WFD network) to which the communication partner belongs. BSSID). However, as described above, when the communication partner has already transmitted an execution request to the MFP 10 (YES in S56 of FIG. 3, YES in S58), the communication partner does not transmit the execution request to the MFP 10 again. The CPU 30 receives the execution request and the wireless setting of the network to which the communication partner belongs. In this case, the wireless setting of the network to which the communication partner belongs is “network information” of the communication partner.

  Next, the CPU 30 determines whether the MFP 10 belongs to the same network as the communication partner based on the received wireless setting. That is, it is determined whether the received SSID and BSSID respectively match the SSID and BSSID included in the network wireless setting to which the MFP 10 belongs. When it is determined that the MFP 10 belongs to the same network as the communication partner, the CPU 30 transmits change-unnecessary information indicating that setting change is unnecessary to the communication partner.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the network to which the MFP 10 belongs and the network to which the communication partner belongs are different from each other, the CPU 30 sets the wireless setting of the WFD network in which the MFP 10 is G / O to the communication partner ( Authentication method, encryption method, password, SSID, BSSID) are transmitted to the communication partner. For example, when the MFP 10 belongs to the WFD network as G / O, the CPU 30 transmits the wireless setting used in the WFD network to the communication partner. Further, for example, when the MFP 10 does not belong to the WFD network in which the MFP 10 itself is G / O, the CPU 30 shifts the MFP 10 to G / O to newly form a WFD network, and wirelessly transmits the WFD network. Send the settings to the other party.

(Two-way communication when communication partner does not belong to network (S112))
When the communication partner does not belong to the network, first, the communication partner transmits to the MFP 10 an execution request for requesting execution of a specific function and information indicating that the communication partner does not belong to the network. However, also in this case, if the communication partner has already transmitted an execution request to the MFP 10 (YES in S56 of FIG. 3, YES in S58), the communication partner does not transmit the execution request to the MFP 10 again. The CPU 30 receives the execution request and information indicating that the communication partner does not belong to the network. In this case, information indicating that the communication partner does not belong to the network is “network information” of the communication partner.

  Next, the CPU 30 determines whether or not the MFP 10 itself belongs to a WFD network that is G / O. When the MFP 10 itself belongs to the WFD network that is G / O, the CPU 30 transmits the wireless setting used in the WFD network to the communication partner.

  On the other hand, when the MFP 10 itself does not belong to the WFD network that is G / O, the CPU 30 shifts to G / O, newly forms a WFD network, and transmits the wireless setting of the WFD network to the communication partner. .

  As a result of the bidirectional communication in S112, the MFP 10 and the communication partner can use a common wireless setting. The CPU 30 establishes a wireless communication link (WFD connection or normal Wi-Fi connection) using the wireless LAN I / F 20 with a communication partner using a common wireless setting.

  Next, in S114, the CPU 30 executes a specific function indicated by the execution request. Specifically, in S114, the CPU 30 communicates target data to be subjected to function execution via the wireless LAN I / F 20 using the established wireless communication link with the communication partner. For example, when the specific function is printing, print data (target data) is transmitted from the communication partner to the MFP 10. When receiving the target data, the CPU 30 causes the print execution unit 16 to print an image indicated by the target data. For example, when the specific function is scanning, the CPU 30 scans a document set on the document feeding mechanism of the scan execution unit 18 and generates scan data (target data). The CPU 30 transmits the generated target data to the communication partner.

  When S114 ends, the CPU 30 ends the P2P mode process. Even when the P2P communication link is not established, the CPU 30 determines NO in S110 and ends the P2P mode process. When the P2P mode process (S22 in FIG. 2, S62 in FIG. 3, S80 in FIG. 4, S102 in FIG. 5) ends, the CPU 30 returns to S10 in FIG. 2 and executes the determination in S10 again. Thereafter, if NO in S18 of FIG. 2, YES in S58 of FIG. 3, YES in S76 of FIG. 4, YES in S98 of FIG. 5, the CPU 30 executes the P2P mode process of FIG. 6 again.

(Communication when the MFP 10 operates in the CE mode; FIG. 7)
With reference to FIG. 7, an example of communication executed between MFP 10 and portable terminals 50 and 80 when MFP 10 operates in the CE mode will be described. In FIG. 7, communication is performed between the MFP 10 operating in the CE mode and the portable terminal 50 operating in the Reader mode, and between the MFP 10 operating in the CE mode and the portable terminal 80 operating in the P2P mode. An example in which communication is performed will be described.

  In the example of FIG. 7, after the MFP 10 is turned on, the operation unit 12 is operated to turn on the application URL supply mode setting. As a result, a value indicating the application URL supply mode setting “ON” is stored in the memory 32 of the MFP 10 (YES in S14 of FIG. 2). As a result, the MFP 10 operates in the CE mode (S32 in FIG. 2). Next, the MFP 10 registers the application download URL in the NFC I / F 22 (S34 in FIG. 2). Next, the MFP 10 monitors whether one of the communication link of MFP (CE) -partner (W) and the communication link of MFP (CE) -partner (R) is established (FIG. 3). S50, S54).

  In the example of FIG. 7, the MFP application is not installed in the portable terminal 50. When the portable terminal 50 is powered on, the Reader mode is activated, and the portable terminal 50 shifts to an initial state where other modes are not activated. Next, the mobile terminal 50 monitors that the communication link of the mobile terminal (R) -the other party (CE) is established.

  In this state, when the portable terminal 50 is brought closer to the MFP 10, the NFC I / Fs 22 and 58 approach each other so that they can communicate with each other (for example, less than 10 cm). In that case, a communication link between MFP 10 (CE) and portable terminal 50 (R) is established between MFP 10 and portable terminal 50 via NFC I / Fs 22 and 58 (YES in S50 of FIG. 3).

  When a communication link between MFP 10 (CE) and portable terminal 50 (R) is established between MFP 10 and portable terminal 50, NFC I / F 22 of MFP 10 uses the communication link between MFP 10 (CE) and portable terminal 50 (R). Then, the application download URL registered in the NFC I / F 22 is transmitted to the portable terminal 50. The portable terminal 50 receives the application download URL.

  In accordance with the received application download URL, portable terminal 50 accesses the server indicated by the application download URL (a server provided by the vendor of MFP 10) and downloads the MFP application. Next, the portable terminal 50 installs the downloaded MFP application in the memory 64. When the installation is completed, the portable terminal 50 can execute various processes according to the MFP application.

  On the other hand, the MFP application is already installed in the portable terminal 80. When a function execution instruction (scan instruction, print instruction) is input on the operation unit after the MFP application is started, the portable terminal 80 is in a state where the P2P mode is started and other modes are not started. Transition.

In this state, when the mobile terminal 80 is brought close to the MFP 10, the mobile terminal 80 operating in the P2P mode can detect that the MFP 10 is operating in the CE mode. As described above, the mobile terminal that operates in the P2P mode repeatedly performs the poll operation and the listen operation. The MFP 10 operating in the CE mode is a Listen device that performs a Listen operation. When the portable terminal 80 performs a poll operation, a polling signal is transmitted to the MFP 10 that is a listen device. When the MFP 10 receives the polling signal from the portable terminal 80, the MFP 10 transmits a response signal to the portable terminal 80. The portable terminal 80 is the MFP 10
When a response signal is received from the MFP 10, an inquiry signal for inquiring to which mode the MFP 10 is operating is transmitted. When the MFP 10 receives the inquiry signal, the MFP 10 transmits to the portable terminal 80 an activation mode signal indicating that it is operating in the CE mode. Thereby, the mobile terminal 80 can detect that the MFP 10 operates in the CE mode.

  When the portable terminal 80 detects that the MFP 10 operates in the CE mode, the portable terminal 80 stops the P2P mode and starts the writer mode. Next, the portable terminal 80 monitors whether the communication link of the portable terminal (W) -the other party (CE) is established.

  In this state, when the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 exist within a distance that allows NFC communication with each other, a communication link of MFP 10 (CE) -mobile terminal 80 (W) is established between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 (FIG. 3 YES at S54).

  When a communication link between MFP 10 (CE) and portable terminal 80 (W) is established between MFP 10 and portable terminal 80, portable terminal 80 uses the communication link of MFP 10 (CE) and portable terminal 80 (W). Then, an execution request for requesting execution of a specific function is transmitted to the MFP 10. When transmitting the execution request, the portable terminal 80 stops the writer mode and activates the P2P mode. Next, the mobile terminal 80 monitors whether a P2P communication link is established.

  The MFP 10 receives the execution request via the NFC I / F 22 (YES in S56 of FIG. 3). Next, the MFP 10 determines whether or not the specific function indicated by the execution request can be executed (S58 in FIG. 3). In the example of FIG. 7, the MFP 10 determines that a specific function can be executed (YES in S58 of FIG. 3). In that case, the MFP 10 stops the CE mode and activates the P2P mode (S60 in FIG. 3). In this case, MFP 10 and portable terminal 80 disconnect the communication link of MFP 10 (CE) -portable terminal 80 (W). Next, the MFP 10 monitors that the P2P communication link is established (S110 in FIG. 6).

  In this state, when the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 exist within a distance that allows NFC communication with each other, a P2P communication link is established between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 (YES in S110 of FIG. 6). Next, P2P communication is executed between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 using a P2P communication link (S112 in FIG. 6). That is, first, the mobile terminal 80 transmits network information (wireless setting of the network to which the mobile terminal 80 belongs or information indicating that the mobile terminal 80 does not belong to the network) to the MFP 10. In the example of FIG. 7, since the portable terminal 80 has already transmitted an execution request to the MFP 10, the execution request is not transmitted to the MFP 10 again at this time. Next, the MFP 10 transmits to the portable terminal 80 wireless setting of the WFD network in which the MFP 10 itself is G / O or change unnecessary information. According to this configuration, the MFP 10 can appropriately change the operation mode of the MFP 10 from the CE mode to the P2P mode. As a result, the MFP 10 can appropriately execute P2P communication with the mobile terminal 80 using the P2P communication link.

  As a result of the above P2P communication, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 can use a common wireless setting. The MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 establish a wireless communication link (WFD connection or normal Wi-Fi connection) via the wireless LAN I / F 20 and the wireless LAN I / F of the portable terminal 80 using a common wireless setting.

Next, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 use the established wireless communication link to transmit target data for executing a specific function indicated by the execution request via the wireless LAN I / F 20 and the wireless LAN I / F of the portable terminal 80. Communication is performed (S114 in FIG. 6). For example, when the specific function is printing, the portable terminal 80 transmits print data (target data) to the MFP 10. Upon receiving the target data, the MFP 10 causes the print execution unit 16 to print the image indicated by the target data. When the specific function is scanning, the MFP 10 scans a document set on the document feeding mechanism of the scan execution unit 18 and generates scan data (target data). The MFP 10 transmits the generated target data to the mobile terminal 80.

  When the execution of the function ends, the portable terminal 80 ends the activated MFP application.

(Communication when the MFP 10 operates in the writer mode; FIG. 8)
With reference to FIG. 8, an example of communication executed between MFP 10, authentication card 100, and portable terminal 80 when MFP 10 operates in the writer mode will be described. In FIG. 8, communication is performed between the MFP 10 operating in the writer mode and the authentication card 100 operating in the CE mode, and between the MFP 10 operating in the writer mode and the mobile terminal 80 operating in the P2P mode. An example in which communication is performed will be described.

  In the example of FIG. 8, after the MFP 10 is turned on, the MFP 10 receives a write job from the PC 8 via the AP 6. The MFP 10 stores the received write job in the memory 32 (YES in S16 of FIG. 2). As a result, the MFP 10 operates in the writer mode (S38 in FIG. 2). Next, the MFP 10 monitors the establishment of the MFP (W) -partner (CE) communication link and also detects the detection of a device operating in the P2P mode (S70 and S76 in FIG. 4).

  The authentication card 100 always operates in the CE mode. When authentication card 100 is brought close to MFP 10, a communication link of MFP 10 (W) -authentication card 100 (CE) is established between MFP 10 and authentication card 100 (YES in S70 of FIG. 4).

  When the MFP 10 (W) -authentication card 100 (CE) communication link is established between the MFP 10 and the authentication card 100, the MFP 10 uses the MFP 10 (W) -authentication card 100 (CE) communication link to store memory. Write data (for example, URL specified by the user, text input by the user, etc.) included in the write job stored in 32 is transmitted to the authentication card 100 (S72 in FIG. 4). The authentication card 100 receives the write data and stores the received write data.

  When the MFP 10 transmits the write data, the MFP 10 deletes the write job in the memory 32 (S74 in FIG. 4).

  Also in the example of FIG. 8, the MFP application is already installed in the portable terminal 80. The portable terminal 80 operates in the P2P mode when a function execution instruction (scan instruction, print instruction) is input on the operation unit after the MFP application is activated.

In this state, when the portable terminal 80 is brought closer to the MFP 10, the MFP 10 operating in the writer mode can detect that the portable terminal 80 is operating in the P2P mode. The MFP 10 activated in the writer mode is a poll device that performs a poll operation. In addition, the mobile terminal 80 that operates in the P2P mode repeatedly performs the poll operation and the listen operation. While the portable terminal 80 is performing the Listen operation, the portable terminal 80 receives a polling signal transmitted from the MFP 10 that is a poll device. When the portable terminal 80 receives the polling signal, the portable terminal 80 transmits a response signal to the MFP 10. When the MFP 10 receives the response signal from the mobile terminal 80, the MFP 10 transmits an inquiry signal for inquiring which mode the mobile terminal 80 is operating in. When the portable terminal 80 receives the inquiry signal, the portable terminal 80 transmits an activation mode signal indicating that it is operating in the P2P mode to the MFP 10. Thereby, the MFP 10 can detect that the portable terminal 80 operates in the P2P mode (YES in S76 of FIG. 4).

  When the MFP 10 detects the portable terminal 80 operating in the P2P mode, the MFP 10 stops the writer mode and activates the P2P mode (S78 in FIG. 4). Next, the MFP 10 monitors that the P2P communication link is established (S110 in FIG. 6).

  In this state, when the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 exist within a distance that allows NFC communication with each other, a P2P communication link is established between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 (YES in S110 of FIG. 6). Next, P2P communication is executed between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 using a P2P communication link (S112 in FIG. 6). That is, first, the mobile terminal 80 requests the MFP 10 to execute a specific function and the network information (the wireless setting of the network to which the mobile terminal 80 belongs, or the mobile terminal 80 belongs to the network. (Information indicating that there is no). Next, the MFP 10 transmits to the portable terminal 80 wireless setting of the WFD network in which the MFP 10 itself is G / O or change unnecessary information. According to this configuration, the MFP 10 can appropriately change the operation mode of the MFP 10 from the writer mode to the P2P mode. As a result, the MFP 10 can appropriately execute P2P communication with the mobile terminal 80 using the P2P communication link.

  As a result of the above P2P communication, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 can use a common wireless setting. The MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 establish a wireless communication link (WFD connection or normal Wi-Fi connection) via the wireless LAN I / F 20 and the wireless LAN I / F of the portable terminal 80 using a common wireless setting.

  Next, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 use the established wireless communication link to transmit target data for executing a specific function indicated by the execution request via the wireless LAN I / F 20 and the wireless LAN I / F of the portable terminal 80. Communication is performed (S114 in FIG. 6). For example, when the specific function is printing, the portable terminal 80 transmits print data (target data) to the MFP 10. Upon receiving the target data, the MFP 10 causes the print execution unit 16 to print the image indicated by the target data. When the specific function is scanning, the MFP 10 scans a document set on the document feeding mechanism of the scan execution unit 18 and generates scan data (target data). The MFP 10 transmits the generated target data to the mobile terminal 80.

  When the execution of the function ends, the portable terminal 80 ends the activated MFP application.

(Communication when the MFP 10 operates in the Reader mode; FIG. 9)
With reference to FIG. 9, an example of communication executed between MFP 10, authentication card 100, and portable terminal 80 when MFP 10 operates in the Reader mode will be described. In FIG. 9, communication is performed between the MFP 10 operating in the Reader mode and the authentication card 100 operating in the CE mode, and between the MFP 10 operating in the Reader mode and the mobile terminal 80 operating in the P2P mode. An example in which communication is performed will be described.

  In the example of FIG. 9, after the power of the MFP 10 is turned on, the MFP 10 receives a print job from the PC 8 via the AP 6. The MFP 10 stores the received print job in the memory 32 (YES in S18 of FIG. 2). As a result, the MFP 10 operates in the Reader mode (S42 in FIG. 2). Next, the MFP 10 monitors the establishment of the MFP (R) -partner (CE) communication link and also monitors the detection of devices operating in the P2P mode (S90 and S98 in FIG. 5).

As described above, the authentication card 100 always operates in the CE mode. Authentication card 100
Is brought closer to the MFP 10, the MFP 10 (R) -authentication card 100 (CE) communication link is established between the MFP 10 and the authentication card 100 (YES in S90 of FIG. 5).

  When the MFP 10 (R) -authentication card 100 (CE) communication link is established between the MFP 10 and the authentication card 100, the MFP 10 uses the MFP 10 (R) -authentication card 100 (CE) communication link to authenticate. Authentication data stored in the authentication card 100 is received from the card 100 (S92 in FIG. 5).

  Next, the MFP 10 executes an authentication process using the received authentication data (S94 in FIG. 5). In the example of FIG. 9, the authentication is successful. If the authentication is successful, the MFP 10 causes the print execution unit 16 to print the image represented by the print data included in the print job. When printing is completed, the MFP 10 deletes the print job in the memory 32 (S96 in FIG. 5).

  Also in the example of FIG. 9, the MFP application is already installed in the portable terminal 80. The portable terminal 80 operates in the P2P mode when a function execution instruction (scan instruction, print instruction) is input on the operation unit after the MFP application is activated.

  In this state, when the mobile terminal 80 is brought close to the MFP 10, the MFP 10 operating in the Reader mode can detect that the mobile terminal 80 is operating in the P2P mode. The MFP 10 activated in the Reader mode is a Poll device that performs a Poll operation. In addition, the mobile terminal 80 that operates in the P2P mode repeatedly performs the poll operation and the listen operation. While the portable terminal 80 is performing the Listen operation, the portable terminal 80 receives a polling signal transmitted from the MFP 10 that is a poll device. When the portable terminal 80 receives the polling signal, the portable terminal 80 transmits a response signal to the MFP 10. When the MFP 10 receives the response signal from the mobile terminal 80, the MFP 10 transmits an inquiry signal for inquiring which mode the mobile terminal 80 is operating in. When the portable terminal 80 receives the inquiry signal, the portable terminal 80 transmits an activation mode signal indicating that it is operating in the P2P mode to the MFP 10. Thereby, the MFP 10 can detect that the portable terminal 80 operates in the P2P mode (YES in S98 of FIG. 5).

  When the MFP 10 detects the portable terminal 80 operating in the P2P mode, the MFP 10 stops the Reader mode and activates the P2P mode (S100 in FIG. 5). Next, the MFP 10 monitors that the P2P communication link is established (S110 in FIG. 6).

  In this state, when the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 exist within a distance that allows NFC communication with each other, a P2P communication link is established between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 (YES in S110 of FIG. 6). Next, P2P communication is executed between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 using a P2P communication link (S112 in FIG. 6). Since the content of the P2P communication performed here is the same as that of the example of FIG. 8, detailed description is abbreviate | omitted. According to this configuration, the MFP 10 can appropriately change the operation mode of the MFP 10 from the Reader mode to the P2P mode. As a result, the MFP 10 can appropriately execute P2P communication with the mobile terminal 80 using the P2P communication link.

As a result of the above P2P communication, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 can use a common wireless setting. Similar to the example of FIG. 8, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 use a common wireless setting to establish a wireless communication link (WFD connection or normal Wi−) via the wireless LAN I / F 20 and the wireless LAN I / F of the portable terminal 80. Fi connection) is established. Next, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 80 use the established wireless communication link to transmit target data for executing a specific function indicated by the execution request via the wireless LAN I / F 20 and the wireless LAN I / F of the portable terminal 80. Communication is performed (S114 in FIG. 6). The contents of this communication are also the same as in the example of FIG.

  When the execution of the function ends, the portable terminal 80 ends the activated MFP application.

(Communication when MFP 10 operates in P2P mode; FIG. 10)
With reference to FIG. 10, an example of communication performed with the mobile terminal 50 operating in the P2P mode when the MFP 10 operates in the P2P mode will be described.

  In the example of FIG. 10, after the MFP 10 is powered on, the MFP 10 operates in the P2P mode (NO in S18 of FIG. 2, S20). Next, the MFP 10 monitors the establishment of the P2P communication link (S110 in FIG. 6).

  In the example of FIG. 10, the MFP application is already installed in the portable terminal 50. In the portable terminal 50, when a function execution instruction (scan instruction, print instruction) is input in the operation unit 52 after the MFP application is activated, the P2P mode is activated and no other mode is activated. Migrate to

  When the portable terminal 50 is brought close to the MFP 10 in this state, a P2P communication link is established between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 (YES in S110 of FIG. 6). Next, P2P communication is executed between the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 using a P2P communication link (S112 in FIG. 6). Since the content of the P2P communication performed here is also the same as the example of FIG. 8, FIG. 9, detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  As a result of the above P2P communication, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 can use a common wireless setting. As in the examples of FIGS. 8 and 9, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 use a common wireless setting to establish a wireless communication link (WFD connection or normal Wi-Fi connection) via the wireless LAN I / Fs 20 and 56. Establish. Next, the MFP 10 and the portable terminal 50 communicate the target data for execution of a specific function indicated by the execution request via the wireless LAN I / Fs 20 and 56 using the established wireless communication link (S114 in FIG. 6). ). Since the contents of this communication are the same as those in the examples of FIGS.

  When the execution of the function ends, the portable terminal 50 ends the activated MFP application.

(Effect of this embodiment)
As described with reference to FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the MFP 10 is in a state where a URL (a support page URL, a consumables page URL, or an application download URL) should be transmitted to the outside (an apparatus error occurs). 2, when a consumable error has occurred, or when the application supply mode is set) (YES in S10 in FIG. 2, YES in S12, or YES in S14) ), The MFP 10 is operated in the CE mode (S24, S28, or S32). As shown in FIG. 7, when a communication link of MFP 10 (CE) -portable terminal 50 (R) is established between the MFP 10 operating in the CE mode and the portable terminal 50 operating in the Reader mode (FIG. 3). In S50, the NFC I / F 22 of the MFP 10 transmits the URL to the mobile terminal using the communication link of MFP 10 (CE) -mobile terminal 50 (R). On the other hand, when it is determined that the URL is not to be transmitted to the outside (NO in S10 in FIG. 2, NO in S12, NO in S14), the MFP 10 sets the MFP 10 to an operation mode other than the CE mode (P2P mode). , Writer mode, or Reader mode) (S20, S38, S42). The MFP 10 executes processing according to the operation mode (see FIGS. 7 to 10). That is, the MFP 10 of this embodiment is an MFP.
The 10 states can operate in an appropriate operation mode depending on whether or not it is determined that the URL is to be transmitted to the outside. As a result, the MFP 10 can execute appropriate communication with the external device (the portable terminals 50 and 80, the authentication card 100). Therefore, the MFP 10 according to the present exemplary embodiment can operate appropriately according to the state of the MFP 10.

(Correspondence)
The MFP 10 is an example of a “communication device”. The mobile terminals 50 and 80 are examples of “first external device”, “third external device”, and “fourth external device”. The portable terminals 50 and 80 and the authentication card 100 are examples of “second external device”. P2P mode, Reader mode, and Writer mode are examples of the “first mode”. The P2P mode and the CE mode are examples of the “second mode”. A URL (any one of a support page URL, a consumables page URL, and an application download URL) is an example of “specific data”. The execution request, the network information of the portable terminal 50 (80), and the wireless setting or change unnecessary information transmitted by the MFP 10 are examples of “first data”. The authentication data (see FIG. 9) is an example of “second data”. Write data (see FIG. 8) is an example of “third data”. A state in which an apparatus error has occurred (YES in S10 in FIG. 2), a state in which a consumable error has occurred (YES in S12 in FIG. 2), and a state in which an application URL supply mode is set (S14 in FIG. 2) YES) is an example of “first state”. The state where the print job exists (YES in S18 in FIG. 2) is an example of the “second state”. The state where the write job exists (YES in S16 in FIG. 2) is an example of the “third state”. The communication link of MFP 10 (CE) -portable terminal 50 (R) (see FIG. 7) is an example of the “first type communication link”. MFP 10 (P2P) -mobile terminal 50 (P2P) communication link (see FIG. 10), MFP 10 (R) -authentication card (CE) communication link (see FIG. 9), MFP (W) -mobile terminal (CE) The communication link (see FIG. 8) is an example of the “second type communication link”. A communication link (see FIGS. 9 and 8) of MFP 10 (P2P) -portable terminal 80 (P2P) is an example of the “third type communication link”. A communication link (see FIG. 7) of MFP 10 (CE) -portable terminal 80 (W) is an example of a “fourth type communication link”. A communication link (see FIG. 7) of MFP 10 (P2P) -portable terminal 50 (P2P) is an example of “fifth type communication link”. The case of YES in S110 of FIG. 6 is an example of “first case”. The case of YES in S90 of FIG. 5 is an example of the “second case”. The case of YES in S70 of FIG. 4 is an example of the “third case”.

  S10, S12, and S14 in FIG. 2 are an example of processing executed by the “first determination unit”. S18 in FIG. 2 is an example of a process executed by the “second determination unit”. S16 in FIG. 2 is an example of a process executed by the “third determination unit”. S24, S28, S32, S20, S38, and S42 in FIG. 2 are examples of processing executed by the “mode setting unit”. The process in the case of YES in S50 of FIG. 3 is an example of the process executed by the “transmission unit”. S72 in FIG. 4, S92 in FIG. 5, and S112 in FIG. 6 are examples of processing executed by the “first communication control unit”. S60 in FIG. 3, S78 in FIG. 4, and S100 in FIG. 5 are examples of processing executed by the “changing unit”. S56 in FIG. 3 is an example of processing executed by the “receiving unit”. S112 in FIG. 6 is an example of a process executed by the “second communication control unit”. 6 is an example of processing executed by the “third communication control unit”.

  Specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail above, but these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and changes of the specific examples illustrated above. The modifications of the above embodiment are listed below.

(Modification 1) The CPU 30 of the MFP 10 determines each determination of S10, S12, S14, S16, and S18 in FIG. 2 in an order other than the order shown in FIG. 2 (that is, the order of S10, S12, S14, S16, and S18). You may go on. That is, generally speaking, the first determination unit determines whether or not the state of the communication device is a first state in which specific data stored in advance in the communication device is to be transmitted to the outside. do it. In addition, the second determination unit may determine whether or not the state of the communication device is a second state different from the first state. Further, the third determination unit may determine whether or not the state of the communication apparatus is a third state different from the first state.

(Modification 2) The CPU 30 of the MFP 10 may omit one or more of the determinations of S16 and S18 of FIG. 2 if the determinations of S10, S12, and S14 of FIG. 2 are executed. That is, generally speaking, when it is determined that the state of the communication device is the first state, the mode setting unit sets the operation mode of the communication device to the CE mode of the NFC standard, and the state of the communication device Is determined not to be in the first state, the operation mode of the communication apparatus may be set to the first mode of the NFC standard different from the CE mode.

(Modification 3) The CPU 30 of the MFP 10 may execute at least one of the determinations of S10, S12, and S14 in FIG. In that case, the CPU 30 may omit one or more of the determinations of S10, S12, and S14 of FIG. That is, generally speaking, the first determination unit determines whether or not the state of the communication device is a first state in which specific data stored in advance in the communication device is to be transmitted to the outside. do it.

(Modification 4) In the above embodiment, in the P2P communication executed in S112 of FIG. 6, the communication partner (for example, the portable terminal 50) has already transmitted an execution request to the MFP 10 (S56 of FIG. 3). YES, YES in S58), an execution request is not transmitted to the MFP 10 again. Instead of this, in the P2P communication executed in S112 of FIG. 6, even if the communication partner has already sent an execution request to the MFP 10, it may send an execution request to the MFP 10 again.

(Modification 5) The method of receiving a print job or a write job by the CPU 30 of the MFP 10 is not limited to the method of receiving via the AP 6. For example, the user may directly input a print job or a write job to the MFP 10 by operating the operation unit 12. In that case, the CPU 30 of the MFP 10 stores the print job or the write job input via the operation unit 12 in the memory 32. Generally speaking, the “third data” may be acquired by the communication device.

(Modification 6) The “communication device” is not limited to the multi-function device (that is, the MFP 10) that can execute the print function and the scan function, and is a printer that can execute only the print function of the print function and the scan function. Alternatively, it may be a scanner that can execute only the scan function of the print function and the scan function. The “communication device” is a device (for example, a PC, a server, a mobile terminal (a mobile phone, a smartphone, a PDA) that executes a function (for example, an image display function, a data calculation function) different from the print function and the scan function. Etc.)). That is, the “communication apparatus” includes any device that can execute NFC communication. The “external device” is not limited to the portable terminals 50 and 80 and the authentication card 100, and includes any device capable of performing NFC communication.

(Modification 7) In each of the above embodiments, each process in FIGS. 2 to 6 is realized by software (that is, a program), but at least one of the processes in FIGS. 2 to 6 is a logic circuit or the like. It may be realized by hardware.

  The technical elements described in this specification or the drawings exhibit technical usefulness alone or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. In addition, the technology illustrated in the present specification or the drawings achieves a plurality of objects at the same time, and has technical utility by achieving one of the objects.

  2: communication system, 4: AP, 6: PC, 10: multi-function device (MFP), 24: control unit, 30: CPU, 32: memory, 50, 80: portable terminal, 100: authentication card

Claims (15)

  A communication device,
  An NFC interface for executing communication in the NFC method, which is a communication method in accordance with the NFC (Near Field Communication) standard;
  Memory,
  A first registration unit that registers the first data stored in the memory in the NFC interface when the state of the communication device is the first state;
  With
  The NFC interface is configured such that the first communication link is established between the communication device and a first external device in a situation where the first data is registered in the NFC interface. Transmitting the first data registered in the NFC interface to the first external device using a communication link of 1;
  The first communication link is a communication link on which data communication is to be performed via the NFC interface;
  The NFC interface is configured such that when the state of the communication device is not the first state and a second communication link is established between the communication device and a second external device, the second communication link To transmit second data different from the first data to the second external device,
  The second communication link is a communication link different from the first communication link, and is a communication link in which data communication is to be performed via the NFC interface.
  Communication device.   The communication device further includes a first determination unit that determines whether the state of the communication device is the first state,
  The communication according to claim 1, wherein the first registration unit registers the first data in the NFC interface in response to determining that the state of the communication device is the first state. apparatus.   The communication device further changes the state of the communication device from the first state to a second state different from the first state in a situation where the first data is registered in the NFC interface. After that, the second data registered in the NFC interface is replaced by replacing the first data registered in the NFC interface with the second data stored in the memory. With a registration section
  The NFC interface is configured when the second communication link is established between the communication device and a second external device in a situation where the second data is registered in the NFC interface. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the second data registered in the NFC interface is transmitted to the second external device using a second communication link. The communication device further includes a second determination unit that determines whether the state of the communication device is the second state,
  The communication according to claim 3, wherein the second registration unit registers the second data in the NFC interface in response to determining that the state of the communication device is the second state. apparatus.   5. The communication link according to claim 1, wherein the first communication link is a communication link established in a situation where an operation mode of the first external device is set to a reader mode of the NFC standard. 6. The communication device described.   6. The communication apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the first communication link is a communication link established in a situation where an operation mode of the communication apparatus is set to a CE (abbreviation for Card Emulation) mode of the NFC standard. .   7. The communication link according to claim 1, wherein the second communication link is a communication link established in a situation where an operation mode of the second external device is set to a reader mode of the NFC standard. The communication device described.   The communication device according to claim 7, wherein the second communication link is a communication link established in a situation where an operation mode of the communication device is set to a CE (abbreviation of Card Emulation) mode of the NFC standard. .   The communication device further includes:
  A print execution unit;
  A communication interface different from the NFC interface, and a communication interface for executing communication in a communication method according to a standard different from the NFC standard;
  After the second data is communicated with the second external device using the second communication link, the communication interface is provided between the communication device and the second external device. An establishing unit for establishing a specific communication link, through which data communication is to be performed,
  A receiving unit that receives print data from the second external device using the specific communication link;
  A print control unit that causes the print execution unit to print an image represented by the received print data;
  The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising:   The communication device has the second data when the state of the communication device is not the first state and the second communication link is established between the communication device and a second external device. The communication apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the second data stored in the memory is transmitted to the second external apparatus without registering the data in the NFC interface.   The said 2nd communication link is a communication link established in the condition where the operation mode of the said communication apparatus is set to the P2P (abbreviation of Peer to Peer) mode of the said NFC standard. Communication equipment.   The first state includes an error state where the communication device is unable to perform at least one function;
  The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first data includes position information of a web page indicating a technique for eliminating the error state.   The first state includes a state in which a specific application program is to be downloaded to an external device,
  The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the first data includes position information for the external device to download the specific application. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first data includes a URL.   A computer program for a communication device,
  The communication device
  An NFC interface for executing communication in the NFC method, which is a communication method in accordance with the NFC (Near Field Communication) standard;
  Memory,
  A computer,
  With
  The computer program is stored in the computer.
    When the state of the communication device is the first state, the first data stored in the memory is registered in the NFC interface, and a first registration process is executed.
  The NFC interface is configured such that the first communication link is established between the communication device and a first external device in a situation where the first data is registered in the NFC interface. Transmitting the first data registered in the NFC interface to the first external device using a communication link of 1;
  The first communication link is a communication link on which data communication is to be performed via the NFC interface;
  The NFC interface is configured such that when the state of the communication device is not the first state and a second communication link is established between the communication device and a second external device, the second communication link To transmit second data different from the first data to the second external device,
  The second communication link is a communication link different from the first communication link, and is a communication link in which data communication is to be performed via the NFC interface.
  Computer program.

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