Information terminal, image processing device and control method thereof, and image processing system

Abstract

The present invention relates to an information terminal, an image processing device, a control method thereof, and an image processing system. The information terminal sends information related to user authentication to the image processing device via short-range wireless communication. The image processing device uses the received information to perform processing for user authentication, and if the user authentication is successful, it is converted into a state of using the function of the image processing device via an operation unit. Based on the information indicating that the user authentication is successful received from the image processing device, the information terminal sends data to be used by any one of the various functions included in the image processing device to the image processing device. After receiving the data from the information terminal, the image processing device uses the received data as the setting of the function of the image processing device corresponding to the data.

Description

[0001] (This application is a divisional application of an application filed on March 13, 2017, with application number 2017101472037 and invention title “Information terminal, image processing device, control method thereof, and image processing system”.) Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to an information processing technology using wireless communication. Background Art

[0003] It is becoming more and more common that a multifunction peripheral (hereinafter referred to as "MFP") is provided with a function for transmitting data of an image of an original document read by a scanner to a set transmission destination (hereinafter referred to as a transmission function).

[0004] In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for using data of mobile terminals for purposes related to MFPs, which has led to the emergence of functions that enable MFPs and mobile terminals to cooperate with each other, such as the function disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2015-207875.

[0005] The MFP disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2015-207875 receives data including a transmission destination of electronic mail (E-mail) or the like from a mobile terminal via wireless communication. The MFP sets a transmission destination to which the MFP transmits document image data based on the received data.

[0006] In some cases, in consideration of security issues, the MFP will perform authentication management that requires user login as a prerequisite. Such MFPs determine whether to allow the user to log in based on the user credential information received from the user. Once the user login is allowed, the MFP enters a state where various functions included in the MFP, such as a copy function and / or a sending function, can be used via the operation panel of the MFP. Summary of the invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a control method for controlling an information terminal, the control method comprising the following steps: a first sending step for sending information related to user authentication to an image processing device via a first communication method for short-range wireless communication, wherein the image processing device uses the information related to the user authentication sent in the first sending step to perform processing for the user authentication, and when the user authentication is successful, the image processing device switches to a state where at least one function included in the image processing device can be used via an operating unit of the image processing device; and a second sending step for sending data to be used by any one of the functions included in the image processing device to the image processing device based on information received from the image processing device indicating that the user authentication is successful, wherein the image processing device uses the data sent in the second sending step as a setting of at least one function of the image processing device corresponding to the data.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, an information terminal includes: a first sending unit for sending information related to user authentication to an image processing device via a first communication method for short-range wireless communication, wherein the image processing device uses the information related to the user authentication sent by the first sending unit to perform processing for the user authentication, and when the user authentication is successful, the image processing device switches to a state where at least one function included in the image processing device can be used via an operating unit of the image processing device; and a second sending unit for sending data to be used by any one of the functions included in the image processing device to the image processing device based on information received from the image processing device indicating that the user authentication is successful, wherein the image processing device uses the data sent by the second sending unit as a setting of at least one function of the image processing device corresponding to the data.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, an image processing device is equipped with a first communication interface for short-range wireless communication, and the image processing device includes: a first receiving unit for receiving information related to user authentication from an information terminal via the first communication interface; an execution unit for using the information received by the first receiving unit to execute the user authentication; a display control unit for displaying an operation screen on a display unit through which at least one function included in the image processing device can be used based on the success of the user authentication executed by the execution unit; a first sending unit for sending information indicating the success of the user authentication to the information terminal via the first communication interface based on the success of the user authentication executed by the execution unit; and a second receiving unit for receiving data to be used by any one of the functions included in the image processing device from the information terminal after sending the information indicating the success of the user authentication to the information terminal, wherein, based on the type of data received by the second receiving unit, the display control unit further switches the screen displayed on the display unit to the screen of the function related to the data.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a control method for an image processing device, wherein the image processing device is equipped with a first communication interface for short-range wireless communication, and the control method comprises the following steps: a first receiving step for receiving information related to user authentication from an information terminal via the first communication interface; an execution step for using the information received in the first receiving step to execute the user authentication; a display control step for displaying on a display unit an operation screen through which at least one function included in the image processing device can be used based on the success of the user authentication in the execution step; a sending step for sending information indicating the success of the user authentication to the information terminal via the first communication interface based on the success of the user authentication in the execution step; and a second receiving step for receiving from the information terminal data to be used by any one of the functions included in the image processing device after sending the information indicating the success of the user authentication to the information terminal, wherein in the display control step, based on the type of data received in the second receiving step, the screen displayed on the display unit is further switched to a screen of a function related to the data.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present invention, an image processing system includes: an image processing device; and an information terminal for performing short-range wireless communication, wherein the information terminal includes: a first sending unit for sending information related to user authentication to the image processing device via a first communication method for the short-range wireless communication, and a second sending unit for sending data to be used by any one of the functions included in the image processing device to the image processing device based on information received from the image processing device indicating that the user authentication is successful, wherein the image processing device includes: a first receiving unit for receiving information related to the user authentication from the information terminal via the first communication method for the short-range wireless communication, and an execution unit for executing the function using the information received by the first receiving unit. User authentication, a display control unit for displaying on a display unit an operation screen through which at least one function included in the image processing device can be used based on the success of the user authentication performed by the execution unit, a third sending unit for sending information indicating the success of the user authentication to the information terminal through the first communication method based on the success of the user authentication performed by the execution unit, and a second receiving unit for receiving from the information terminal data to be used by any one of the functions included in the image processing device after the information indicating the success of the user authentication is sent to the information terminal, wherein, based on the type of data received by the second receiving unit, the display control unit of the image processing device further switches the screen displayed on the display unit to a screen of the function related to the data.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, a control method for controlling an information terminal, the control method comprising the following steps: a first sending step for sending information related to user authentication to an image processing device via a first communication method for short-range wireless communication, wherein the information related to the user authentication is used to determine whether the user is permitted to use the functions included in the image processing device; a communication establishment step for obtaining connection information for communicating with the image processing device using a second communication method different from the first communication method from the image processing device via the first communication method based on information received from the image processing device indicating that the user authentication is successful, and establishing communication using the second communication method based on the connection information; and a second sending step for sending data to be used by any one of the functions included in the image processing device to the image processing device via the second communication method based on the establishment of communication using the second communication method.

[0013] Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 An example of the structure of a system to which the exemplary embodiment is applied is shown.

[0015] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware structure of a multifunction peripheral (MFP).

[0016] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware structure of a mobile terminal.

[0017] Figure 4A and 4B 1 and 2 are block diagrams showing the software configurations of the MFP and the mobile terminal, respectively.

[0018] Figure 5 An example of a Bluetooth service included in the MFP is shown.

[0019] Figure 6 An example of an application menu screen of a mobile terminal is shown.

[0020] Figure 7 An application setting screen of a mobile terminal is shown.

[0021] Figure 8 An example of a screen of a mobile terminal used for the transmission destination is shown.

[0022] Fig. 9 An example of screen transition of the MFP related to login and logout is shown.

[0023] Fig. 10A and 10B Shown display for wireless fidelity An example of a screen of an MFP showing connection information.

[0024] Fig.11A and 11B An example of a sending screen of the MFP is shown.

[0025] Fig.12 An example of a pop-up screen displayed on the MFP when receiving data from a mobile terminal is shown.

[0026] Fig.13 An example of an address book screen of the MFP is shown.

[0027] Fig.14A and 14B Detailed description of the invention is a flowchart showing an example of processing of a destination transmission function on the mobile terminal side.

[0028] Fig.15It is shown as an example in Fig.14A and 14B A flowchart showing details of the processing performed in step S3022 is shown.

[0029] Fig.16 : is a flowchart showing an example of processing of the destination transmission function on the MFP side.

[0030] Fig.17 It is shown as an example in Fig.16 A flowchart showing details of the processing performed in step S4008 is shown.

[0031] Fig.18 An example of a print screen of a mobile terminal is shown.

[0032] Fig.19A and 19B : is a flowchart showing an example of processing of the print function on the mobile terminal side.

[0033] Fig. 20 : is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the print function on the MFP side. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Exemplary embodiments will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] For an MFP configured to perform authentication management requiring user login as a prerequisite, even when a mobile terminal sends data (eg, a destination of an electronic mail (E-mail)) to the MFP, user login to the MFP is required.

[0036] When processing is performed in cooperation with a mobile terminal on an MFP configured to perform authentication management requiring user login as a prerequisite, the user generally logs into the MFP and then operates the mobile terminal to send data to the MFP. The user generally performs operations for the MFP and for the mobile terminal, which makes the process cumbersome.

[0037] Under these circumstances, in view of the current widespread use of mobile terminals equipped with wireless communication functions, the inventors believe that enabling users to log in to the MFP from the mobile terminal and to send data from the mobile terminal to the MFP will improve convenience and solve the above-mentioned conventional operability problems. In other words, the inventors believe that enabling users to log in to the MFP and send data to the MFP by simply performing user operations from the mobile terminal will simplify the cumbersome user operations that traditionally require user operations for these two devices, thereby making the technology more user-friendly.

[0038] According to the above description, the following exemplary embodiments are configured to enable a user to easily realize cooperation with a mobile terminal via wireless communication suitable for the situation without being forced to perform cumbersome operations in cooperation between an information processing device and an external device.

[0039] After logging into the MFP, the user can perform processing by selecting any one of the various functions included in the MFP from the operation panel of the MFP. Therefore, the user will usually log in when approaching the MFP.

[0040] Therefore, even if the MFP is configured to enable a user to log in to the MFP via wireless communication, a user located far from the MFP is generally not allowed to log in. In other words, wireless communication covering a relatively narrow communication range is more suitable for login using wireless communication than wireless communication covering a relatively wide communication range.

[0041] In the case where a user sends data from a mobile terminal to an MFP via wireless communication, the amount of data sent may be large. In other words, high-speed wireless communication that can send a large amount of data in a short time is suitable for wireless communication to be used to send data. Thus, the characteristics of the wireless communication are different between when trying to log in to the MFP from the mobile terminal and when sending data from the mobile terminal to the MFP.

[0042] The exemplary embodiments described below are configured to enable a user to easily realize cooperation with a mobile terminal via wireless communication suitable for the situation without being forced to perform cumbersome operations in cooperation between an information processing apparatus and an external apparatus.

[0043] System Configuration According to the First Exemplary Embodiment

[0044] Figure 1 An example of a configuration of a system to which the first exemplary embodiment is applied is shown.

[0045] like Figure 1 For example, in the system according to the present exemplary embodiment, the mobile terminal 101, the MFP 102, and the access point 103 can each communicate with the mobile terminal 101 via the corresponding The communication (communication conforming to the communication standards defined in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 series) is performed. Figure 1 The illustrated structure is merely an example of a general structure. Thus, for example, the mobile terminal (portable terminal) 101 may be any other type of information device.

[0046] The mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102 can communicate with each other via the access point 103. The MFP 102 itself can be connected and communicated with each other in infrastructure mode. Access point mode (i.e. In this case, the mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102 can also communicate directly without using the access point 103. connection and communicate directly with each other. AP mode is also called software access point mode.

[0047] Next, we will refer to Figure 2 and 3 , describing the hardware configuration of the MFP 102 and the mobile terminal 101.

[0048] Hardware Configuration of MFP 102

[0049] Figure 2 An example of the hardware configuration of the MFP 102 is shown.

[0050] like Figure 2 As shown, the MFP 102 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 201 that executes software stored in a read only memory (ROM) 202 or a hard disk (hard disk drive (HDD)) 213. The CPU 201 generally controls each device connected to a system bus 216.

[0051] A random access memory (RAM) 203 is used as a main memory and / or a work area of ​​the CPU 201, etc. An operation unit controller 208 controls, for example, various types of buttons (not shown) or an operation panel 209 and a display 211 provided on the MFP 102. A disk controller 212 controls an HDD 213. The HDD 213 can also be used as a place to temporarily store images. The MFP 102 may include other storage devices such as a solid state drive (SSD) instead of the HDD 213, or may include both.

[0052] A network interface (I / F) 207 bidirectionally exchanges data with another network device or a file server or the like via a network 220 .

[0053] The MFP 102 also includes a wireless local area network (LAN) I / F 206. When operating in infrastructure mode, the wireless LAN I / F 206 is connected to the network 220 via an access point and bidirectionally exchanges data with another network device or a file server, etc. via the access point. When operating in AP mode, the MFP 102 can operate as an access point and directly establish wireless communication connection with the mobile terminal 101 or the like. In other words, the MFP 102 includes a function for communicating between the mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102 without passing through an access point external to the mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102. As described in detail below, when the MFP 102 receives a signal from the mobile terminal 101 for opening the MFP 102, the MFP 102 When the AP mode is requested, the communication function is enabled.

[0054] The printer 214 is a printing unit for printing data on paper or the like, which is realized by, for example, an electrophotographic method. However, the printing method is not limited to the electrophotographic method, and may be any printing method.

[0055] The scanner 215 is an image reading unit for reading an image printed on paper, etc. In many cases, the scanner 215 is equipped with an automatic document feeder (ADF) (not shown) as an option, and can automatically read a plurality of originals.

[0056] The MFP 102 also includes a Bluetooth I / F ( I / F) 205. The MFP 102 can be connected to The I / F 205 sends and receives data with respect to various types of peripheral devices. Supports Bluetooth Low Energy designed for energy-efficient communications Devices have become increasingly popular in recent years.

[0057] Hardware structure of mobile terminal 101

[0058] Figure 3 1 shows an example of the hardware structure of the mobile terminal 101. It is assumed that the mobile terminal 101 according to the present exemplary embodiment is a device such as a smartphone and a tablet computer, but the mobile terminal 101 may be any other device as long as it is capable of performing Communications and low power consumption Any information processing device for communication will suffice.

[0059] refer to Figure 3 , the mobile terminal 101 includes a CPU 307. The CPU 307 reads out a control program stored in a flash memory 310, and performs various types of processing for controlling the operation of the mobile terminal 101. The flash memory 310 stores the control program. The RAM 309 is used as a temporary storage area such as a main memory and a work area of ​​the CPU 307. The flash memory 310 is also used to store various types of data such as digital images and electronic documents.

[0060] The operation panel 301 includes a touch panel function that detects, for example, a user's touch operation, and displays various types of screens provided by an operating system (OS) and various types of applications such as an e-mail sending application. The user can input a desired operation instruction to the mobile terminal 101 by inputting a touch operation on the operation panel 301. The mobile terminal 101 includes hard keys not shown, and the user can also input an operation instruction to the mobile terminal 101 using the hard keys. The user can also input instructions using voice through a microphone not shown.

[0061] The camera 304 captures an image according to a capture instruction from the user. The image captured by the camera 304 is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the flash memory 310. The CPU 307 can also use a method capable of analyzing a Quick Response Code (QR ) procedure, from the QR code read by the camera 304 Get information.

[0062] The mobile terminal 101 also includes I / F (Bluetooth I / F) 306. The mobile terminal 101 can The I / F 306 transmits and receives data with various types of peripheral devices. I / F 306 can support low power consumption The mobile terminal 101 also includes a wireless LAN I / F 311. The mobile terminal 101 can transmit and receive data with respect to various types of peripheral devices via the wireless LAN I / F 311. The wireless LAN I / F 311 can be directly connected to the MFP 102 via the access point 103 or without passing through the access point 103.

[0063] Software configuration according to the present exemplary embodiment

[0064] Next, refer to Figure 4A and 4B The software configurations of the MFP 102 and the mobile terminal 101 are described.

[0065] Figure 4A 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the software structure of the MFP 102 and the data area managed by the software. The CPU 201 executes a program stored in the ROM 202 or the like, thereby making the Figure 4A The software shown is functional.

[0066] exist Figure 4A This can include, for example, etc. The platform 806 is constructed in the form of a virtual machine, an Open Service Gateway Protocol (OSGi) framework, and / or a set of device drivers. The platform 806 includes device drivers for controlling various types of hardware and provides an application programming interface (API) for using the hardware to applications running on the platform 806.

[0067] For example, The control unit 807 is used to control The platform 806 includes a device driver for the wireless LAN I / F 206 and a device driver for the I / F 205. The network control unit 808 is a device driver for controlling the wireless LAN I / F 206 and the network I / F 207. In addition, although not shown, a printer module for controlling the printer 214 and a scanner module for controlling the scanner 215 and the like are prepared on the platform 806. The platform 806 also provides an API for reading and writing data with respect to a document 809 and a print job 810 to the application program. The document 809 and the print job 810 represent data areas of data managed by the platform 806 in the case of recording the data in the RAM 203 or the HDD 213.

[0068] Copy 801, Send 802, and Print 803 are application programs that run on the platform 806, and display user interfaces for presenting various types of functions on the display 211. For example, Copy 801 performs copying by controlling the scanner 215 and the printer 214 via the platform 806. Send 802 provides a function for sending read document data to the network 220 by controlling the scanner 215 and the network I / F 207. Print 803 provides a function for printing document data stored in a document 809 and a print job held in a print job 810.

[0069] The menu 800 is a module that displays a menu for selecting applications such as copy 801, send 802, and print 803 from the display 211. A remote user interface (UI) 811 provides, for example, the mobile terminal 101 with a user interface for managing settings of the MFP 102 and a user interface for printing document data stored in a document 809. The login service 804 is a module that provides a login function for using the MFP 102. The user account 805 represents a data area for data managed by the login service 804 in the case of recording the data in the RAM 203 or the HDD 213.

[0070] Overview of Login Service 804

[0071] Login service 804 includes (1) user account management function, (2) local login function, and (3) access to low power consumption Login function of the communication service and (4) remote login function.

[0072] (1) User account management function

[0073] The login service 804 provides a user interface for registering and managing user accounts. The login service 804 records and manages the information registered via the user interface in the user account 805. As shown in the example of Table 1 (User Information List) below, examples of management information include user names, passwords, and roles.

[0074] Table 1

[0075] User information list

[0076]

[0077]

[0078] (2) Local login function

[0079] The login service 804 provides the user with a login / logout function using the operation unit. The login service 804 displays the login screen 701 ( Fig. 9 ), and prevents unlogged-in users from using this function. The number of users permitted to log in locally at the same time is 1, and multiple users cannot log in locally at the same time. If the user logs in successfully, the login service 804 causes the display 211 to switch from the login screen 701 to the menu screen 705 ( Fig. 9 ), thereby bringing the MFP 102 into a state where the user can use the MFP 102. As a method for local login, the login service 804 provides a plurality of login methods. For example, the login service 804 provides a login method as in the following example.

[0080] a. Keyboard login method

[0081] The login service 804 performs a login process by displaying a software keyboard on the login screen 701 of the display 211 , acquiring an input user name and password, and authenticating the user.

[0082] b. Mobile login method

[0083] Login service 804 is implemented by using low power The communication receives a login request together with user authentication information from the mobile terminal 101, and authenticates the user to perform a login process.

[0084] The login service 804 is a mechanism for permitting or denying login according to the status of the MFP 102 when the above login is attempted. The MFP 102 records the status ID (StatusID) shown in Table 2 (Login Permission Status List) below in the RAM 203 and manages it. Figure 5 The user authentication service 1000 shown implements mobile login.

[0085] Table 2

[0086] Login availability status list

[0087]

[0088]

[0089] The MFP 102 performs state management, wherein the state management is used to control the state of the MFP 102 based on whether the local login process is successful so that the state is converted into a state capable of receiving data sent from the mobile terminal 101. More specifically, the MFP 102 controls the state of the MFP 102 so that if no user has performed local login, the state remains a state in which data sent from the mobile terminal 101 cannot be received, and if the local login is successful, the state is converted into a state in which data sent from the mobile terminal 101 can be received.

[0090] As a logout method after local login, the login service 804 includes the following methods:

[0091] * A method in which a logout button is displayed on the operation panel 209 and a logout process is performed when pressing of the button is detected.

[0092] * A method of performing a logout process if there is no input operation on the operation panel 209 and the display 211 within a predetermined period of time.

[0093] *A method of performing a logout process in response to a logout request from the mobile terminal 101.

[0094] After the logout process, the login service 804 displays the login screen 701 .

[0095] (3) Remote login function

[0096] When the remote UI 811 is used for the remote login function, the login service 804 provides a login / logout function. For example, when an access to the remote UI 811 from the mobile terminal 101 is detected, the login service 804 sends a login screen written in Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) to the mobile terminal 101. The login service 804 obtains the user name and password entered on the above login screen and authenticates the user, thereby permitting login to the remote UI 811. The login service 804 is configured to allow multiple users to log in remotely at the same time for the remote login function.

[0097] (4) Used to access low power consumption Login function for communication services

[0098] For accessing low power The login function of the communication service, the login service 804 provides a user for accessing the communication service via the low power Communications published services ( Figure 5 ) login / logout function. This function is also available through low power The communication is authenticated, but unlike the "mobile login method" of the local login function, the screen displayed on the display 211 is not switched after login.

[0099] Software structure of mobile terminal 101

[0100] Figure 4B is a block diagram showing an example of the software structure of the mobile terminal 101.

[0101] The mobile terminal 101 includes a platform 902 and an MFP cooperation application (hereinafter referred to as an application) 900 as software. The CPU 307 executes a program stored in the flash memory 310, whereby the platform 902 functions. The application 900 is also a program stored in the flash memory 310, and functions by executing the program by the CPU 307 under the control of the platform 902.

[0102] This can be done through and The platform 902 is implemented by a platform (OS, etc.) such as the mobile terminal 101. The platform 902 includes a set of device drivers for controlling various types of hardware of the mobile terminal 101, and provides an API for using the various types of hardware to the application 900 running on the platform 902.

[0103] The application 900 is software that performs various processes by controlling the hardware of the mobile terminal 101 via an API provided by the platform 902. More specifically, the application 900 requests the platform 902 to perform a process via the API, and the platform 902 performs the desired process using a device driver corresponding to the content of the requested process through the hardware. Then, the platform 902 returns the result of the process to the application 900 via the API.

[0104] In this exemplary embodiment, the set of device drivers includes Control unit 903 and wireless network control unit 904. The control unit 903 is used to control Device driver of the I / F 306. The wireless network control unit 904 is a device driver for controlling the wireless LAN I / F 311.

[0105] In order to achieve low power consumption To communicate with a device outside the mobile terminal 101 (eg, the MFP 102) to send and receive data, the application 900 first requests the platform 902 to communicate with the device via the low power consumption Communication is performed to send and receive data with external devices. Then, platform 902 uses Control unit 903 controls I / F 306, via low power Communication is performed to transmit and receive data with the external device. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the application 900 is connected via the low power When communicating with an external device, it is assumed that the low power consumption The communication is performed to transmit and receive data between the application 900 and the external device.

[0106] In order to pass To communicate with a device (eg, MFP 102) external to mobile terminal 101, application 900 first requests platform 902 to communicate with the device via The platform 902 then uses the wireless network control unit 904 to control the wireless LAN I / F 311 to communicate with the external device via Communication is performed to send and receive data with the external device. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, in the application 900 via When data is sent and received with an external device, it is assumed that the communication is performed via The communication is performed to transmit and receive data between the application 900 and the external device.

[0107] Application 900 includes, for example, the following functions:

[0108] (1) Used for multi-function Function of communicating with MFP 102 and issuing a login request and a logout request. The user can use application 900 to pre-record user authentication information (user name and password) to be used when requesting a login as authentication information 901 in flash memory 310. For example, the user pre-records information (authentication information) such as the example shown in Table 3 below:

[0109] Table 3

[0110] Certification Information

[0111] project value username Alice password Password 1

[0112] (2) For low power consumption Communicates to the MFP 102 and performs start / stop AP mode processing function. In this process, use Figure 5 shown AP mode start / stop service 1006 is described in detail below.

[0113] (3) A function for starting the WEB browser 905 and connecting to the remote UI 811 .

[0114] (4) For use The communication function sends information such as the destination data registered with the address book of the mobile terminal 101, the subject, body, and attachment name when sending an e-mail, etc. to the MFP 102. In the present exemplary embodiment, the address book 906 is managed by the application 900, but it can be managed by the platform 902. In this case, the application 900 is configured to request the platform 902 for the destination data in the address book 906 to obtain the destination data registered with the address book 906. Assume that the application 900 maintains, for example, the following Table 4 (for destination sending) The following table 4 means: In the case of communicating data such as a destination, the transmission can be performed only when the distance between the mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102 is less than 50 cm. The mobile terminal 101 is configured so that data transmission can be used only when the distance is less than 50 cm to ensure that the user who uses the data transmission is near the MFP 102. This is because, if, on the contrary, the destination transmission can be used from a long distance, the destination may be set to the MFP 102 without knowing it while another user is using the MFP 102, and an e-mail may be accidentally sent. In the present exemplary embodiment, the mobile terminal 101 uses a low power consumption function before attempting to log in to the above-mentioned function (1). The mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102 are communicated to estimate the distance between them. Then, if the distance is estimated to be less than a predetermined distance (less than 50 cm in the example shown in Table 4), the mobile terminal 101 attempts to log in to the above function (1). If the distance is estimated to be equal to or greater than the predetermined distance, the mobile terminal 101 does not attempt to log in to the above function (1).

[0115] Table 4

[0116] For destination delivery Connection Settings List

[0117] distance state Less than 50cm Data can be sent Greater than or equal to 50cm Data transmission is not possible

[0118] The mobile terminal 101 may be configured so that the user of the mobile terminal 101 can change the above-mentioned destination transmission. The mobile terminal 101 may use the distance in the connection setting list, or may be configured to obtain the setting from the MFP 102. The received signal strength indication (RSSI) (received signal strength) of the mobile terminal 101 is used to measure the distance to the MFP 102. For example, the characteristic that the RSSI attenuates as the distance between the MFP 102 and the mobile terminal 101 increases can be used to create data indicating the relationship between the RSSI and the distance to the MFP 102, such as the data shown in Table 5 (a list of RSSI and estimated distance) below. Then, the mobile terminal 101 measures the distance to the MFP 102 by using the data.

[0119] Table 5

[0120] List of RSSI and estimated distance

[0121] RSSI(dBm) Estimated distance -40 10cm -50 50cm -59 1m -62 2m

[0122] The MFP 102 includes Features and Services

[0123] When the MFP 102 according to the present exemplary embodiment is powered on, the platform 806 Control unit 807 starts and sends it at predetermined intervals The advertising packet contains data such as the following example:

[0124] Local Name: Indicates the device name, etc., such as "Canxn MFP CXXX" etc.

[0125] Manufacturer-specific data: This stores the company's identifier and arbitrary data.

[0126] TX power level: Indicates the strength of the transmitted radio waves, such as -38dBm.

[0127] Service Universally Unique Identifiers (UUIDs): UUIDs that are used to identify the functionality of a device.

[0128] Figure 5 The MFP 102 includes a low power An example of a communication service.

[0129] The MFP 102 according to the present exemplary embodiment provides a The mobile terminal 101 connected to the communication publishes various types of services defined in the Generic Attribute Profile (GATT). These services include user authentication service 1000, AP mode start / stop service 1006 and The connection information acquisition service 1008 will be described in detail below.

[0130] First, the user authentication service 1000 will be described.

[0131] The user authentication service 1000 includes the following features defined in the GATT profile. The profile and features of GATT have a mutual relationship like the relationship between classes and member variables in object-oriented concepts. The login service 804 is connected to the platform 806 and The control unit 807 provides an API to read and write the values ​​of each of these characteristics.

[0132] StatusID 1001 is a feature indicating a status related to whether or not it is possible to log in to MFP 102. Mobile terminal 101 obtains StatusID 1001 through a read operation, thereby obtaining a status related to whether or not it is possible to log in to MFP 102. MFP 102 stores the value shown in Table 2 (Login Possibility Status List) as the value of StatusID 1001. Login service 804 changes this value according to the status change. When this value is changed, The control unit 807 notifies the currently connected mobile terminal 101 of the change in the value through Notification in the attribute protocol (ATT).

[0133] UserName 1002 and Password 1003 are features used by the mobile terminal 101 to input a user name and a password through a write operation when issuing a login request. UserName 1002 and Password 1003 may be configured as features that require encryption for a write operation.

[0134] RequestID 1004 is a feature used by the mobile terminal 101 to input a request to the user authentication service 1000 through a write operation. For example, the mobile terminal 101 inputs the value of RequestID as shown in the example of Table 6 (RequestID List) below as a request to the user authentication service 1000 into RequestID 1004 through a write operation.

[0135] Table 6

[0136] Request ID List

[0137]

[0138]

[0139] ResultID 1005 is a feature used by the MFP 102 to store the authentication result (whether the user authentication is successful) when performing user authentication in response to a login request from the mobile terminal 101. For example, the MFP 102 stores the value of ResultID as shown in the example of Table 7 (ResultID List) below in ResultID 1005 as the authentication result.

[0140] Table 7

[0141] Result ID List

[0142] Result ID meaning 1 Login successful 2 Login Failed 3 Cancel 4 Other Errors

[0143] When the MFP 102 stores the authentication result in the ResultID 1005, The control unit 807 notifies the currently connected mobile terminal 101 of the change in the authentication result value through Notification in ATT.

[0144] Next, we will explain AP mode start / stop service 1006.

[0145] The AP mode start / stop service 1006 includes the following characteristics defined in the GATT profile.

[0146] Status 1007 stores the following table 8 ( AP Mode Status List).

[0147] Table 8

[0148] AP mode status list

[0149]

[0150]

[0151] MFP 102 Utilization AP mode start / stop service 1006, use low power consumption communication, providing a direct communication channel between the MFP 102 and the mobile terminal 101 according to a request from the mobile terminal 101 Connect valid functions.

[0152] Next, we will explain Connection information acquisition service 1008.

[0153] The connection information acquisition service 1008 includes the following characteristics defined in the GATT profile.

[0154] A Primary IP Address 1009 and a Primary MAC address 1010 are features indicating an Internet Protocol (IP) address and a Media Access Control (MAC) address, respectively, when the MFP 102 is connected to the access point 103 in the infrastructure mode.

[0155] SSID 1011 and KEY (secret key) 1012 are respectively used by MFP 102 to Features of an identifier (Service Set Identifier (SSID)) for identifying a direct network and a key for connecting to the direct network when operating in AP mode.

[0156] Direct IP Address 1013 and Direct MAC Address 1014 respectively indicate the IP addresses of the MFP 102. Characteristics of IP addresses and MAC addresses when working in AP mode.

[0157] Screen of mobile terminal 101

[0158] Reference Figure 6 , 7 and 8 illustrate the screen of the mobile terminal 101.

[0159] Application menu screen of mobile terminal 101

[0160] Figure 6 An example of a mobile application menu screen 406 on the mobile terminal 101 is shown. The user can use this screen to select the settings of the mobile application and the functions that the user wants to use. For example, when the mobile application is started, this screen is displayed.

[0161] The function selection buttons 401 , 402 , 403 , and 404 are each a button with which a user can issue an instruction for starting to use a function provided by a mobile application.

[0162] For example, the function selection button 401 is a button for selecting a "destination transmission" application for setting a destination and mail information to be transmitted from the mobile terminal 101 to the MFP 102. When the function selection button 401 is pressed, the mobile terminal 101 causes the screen to be switched to a later-described Figure 8 Destination sending screen 480 is shown.

[0163] The function selection button 402 is a button for selecting a "print" application for sending print data from the mobile terminal 101 to the MFP 102. When the function selection button 402 is pressed, the mobile terminal 101 causes the screen to be switched to a later-described Fig.18 In the description of the second exemplary embodiment, functions corresponding to the function selection buttons 402 will be described.

[0164] Function selection buttons 403 and 404 are buttons for selecting application A and application B, respectively.

[0165] The mobile terminal 101 keeps each MFP with which the mobile application has previously communicated recorded in the flash memory 310, and displays the list thereof on the MFP list display section 405. The user can specify the MFP 102 as the communication destination by selecting from this MFP list display section 405.

[0166] When the mobile application setting button 407 is pressed, the mobile terminal 101 causes the screen to be converted into a Figure 7 Screen 450 for setting up a mobile application is shown.

[0167] Application setting screen of mobile terminal 101

[0168] Figure 7 An example of a mobile application setting screen 450 on the mobile terminal 101 is shown.

[0169] When the user presses the application setting button 412, the mobile terminal 101 displays a list of setting items of the mobile application (not shown). The setting items of the mobile application include, for example, setting registration of user authentication information for the MFP 102 (authentication information such as the example shown in Table 3).

[0170] When the user presses the back button 411, the mobile terminal 101 maintains the settings of the mobile application configured via the mobile application setting screen 450, and causes the screen to be converted to the mobile application setting screen 450. Figure 6 The mobile application menu screen 406 is shown.

[0171] Destination transmission screen of mobile terminal 101

[0172] Figure 8 An example of a destination transmission screen 480 on the mobile terminal 101 is shown.

[0173] The user can use the destination transmission screen 480 to input information required for sending an email.

[0174] The destination transmission screen 480 includes an email address field ("To") 441 for selecting a destination in the address book 906 stored in the flash memory 310 of the mobile terminal 101 and inputting the selected destination. A plurality of destinations can be designated in the email address field ("To") 441 at the same time.

[0175] Likewise, the email address field ("Cc") 447 is a field for selecting a destination stored in the address book 906 of the mobile terminal 101 and inputting the selected destination. A plurality of destinations can be designated in the email address field ("Cc") 447 at the same time.

[0176] Likewise, the email address field ("Bcc") 448 is a field for selecting a destination stored in the address book 906 of the mobile terminal 101 and inputting the selected destination. A plurality of destinations can be designated in the email address field ("Bcc") 448 at the same time.

[0177] An email address field (“To”) 441 , an email address field (“Cc”) 447 , and an email address field (“Bcc”) 448 may also be specified by inputting a new destination through a soft keyboard on the mobile terminal 101 .

[0178] The subject field 442 is a field for inputting the subject of the e-mail.

[0179] The text field 443 is a field for inputting the text of the e-mail.

[0180] The file name field 444 is a field for inputting the name of an attachment file of an e-mail.

[0181] The user may use the soft keyboard on the mobile terminal 101 to input character strings into the subject field 442 , the text field 443 , and the file name field 444 .

[0182] The input may be input into any of these fields using not only a soft keyboard but also other input methods such as voice recognition.

[0183] The system can be configured so that in addition to sending Figure 8 In addition to the information required for the e-mail (destination, etc.) shown, other information such as resolution and color mode, such as the scan setting when the MFP 102 scans a document, can be set to the MFP 102 from the mobile terminal 101. Although not described in detail here, this information can be set by the same method as the information required for sending an e-mail.

[0184] When the user presses the button 445 for sending data to the printer, the mobile terminal 101 performs a Fig.14A and 14B The processing for sending data such as the destination input on the destination sending screen 480 to the MFP 102 is described above. When the data transmission to the MFP 102 is completed, the mobile terminal 101 clears all inputs on the destination sending screen 480 and returns the screen display to Figure 6 The mobile application menu screen 406 is shown. If data transmission fails, the mobile terminal 101 displays an error and keeps displaying the screen presenting the destination transmission screen 480 without clearing the input on the destination transmission screen 480.

[0185] Screen of the MFP 102

[0186] Next, refer to Fig. 9 , Fig. 10A and 10B , Fig.11A and 11B as well as Fig.12 , which describes a screen displayed on the display 211 of the MFP 102.

[0187] Screen of the MFP 102 during login / logout

[0188] Fig. 9 An example of screens and screen transitions related to login and logout is shown.

[0189] For example, in a state before a user logs into the MFP 102, the MFP 102 displays a login screen 701 and waits for an event of receiving an input of a user identification (ID) 702, a password 703, and pressing a login button 704, or waits for a login button 704 to be pressed via a login screen 701. A login request is received from the mobile terminal 101 .

[0190] The MFP 102 receives a press of the login button 704 or receives a When receiving the login request, a login process is performed. Then, if the login is successful, the MFP 102 controls the display so that the screen transitions to the menu screen 705, and if the login fails, displays the login screen 701 originally displayed.

[0191] The menu screen 705 includes buttons for calling various types of applications (in Fig. 9 In the case of the illustrated example, the MFP 102 includes a copy button 706, a send button 707, and a print button 708) and a logout button 709. When pressing of the logout button 709 is detected, the MFP 102 performs a logout process and displays the login screen 701.

[0192] Mobile connection portal screen of MFP 102

[0193] Fig. 10A and 10B The present invention shows a method for performing communication between the MFP 102 and the mobile terminal 101. An example of a connection entry screen. Fig.11A This screen is displayed by pressing a button 608 for designating a destination on the transmission screen 601 shown.

[0194] The mobile portal screen 501 includes an infrastructure connection mode button 504 and a direct connection mode button 505. The infrastructure connection mode button 504 is used to switch the screen to the direct connection mode button 505. The display ( Fig. 10B The direct connection mode button 505 is used to switch the screen to the one for Direct communication connection to the display of the mobile terminal 101 ( Fig. 10A ) button.

[0195] Fig. 10A An example of a display when the direct connection mode button 505 is pressed is shown.

[0196] When the user presses When the direct communication button 502 is operated, the MFP 102 starts or ends Direct communication. Fig. 10A The example shown shows the start Direct communication status, press Direct communication operation button 502 will end Direct communication.

[0197] When to start When communicating directly, the MFP 102 will The information required for direct communication is displayed on the mobile portal screen 501, and along with this, a QR code in which the information is embedded is displayed. 503. The information required for direct communication is, for example, SSID and key, but is not limited thereto. When direct communication ends, remove This information and QR code are required for direct communication. 503 display.

[0198] Fig. 10B 5 shows a display when the infrastructure connection mode button 504 is pressed. On this screen, the MFP 102 displays a message for establishing a connection between the mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102 via the access point 103. The information of the infrastructure connection and, along with it, a QR code embedded with this information is displayed. 506. The information required for infrastructure connection is, for example, the IP address of the MFP 102 , but is not limited thereto.

[0199] For example, in In the case of direct connection, the mobile terminal 101 can read the QR 503 to automatically obtain the SSID and key, and switch the connection to directly to the network to put it in a state where it can communicate with the MFP 102.

[0200] exist In the case of infrastructure connection, the mobile terminal 101 can read the QR 506 to automatically acquire the IP address of the MFP 102, and can pair it with the MFP 102 to determine the connection destination.

[0201] if only I / F 205 is ready for use on MFP 102, and mobile terminal 101 can use the low power consumption of mobile terminal 101. The communication function can be obtained from the above QR The same information as that obtained by 503 or 506 can be connect.

[0202] Sending screen of MFP 102

[0203] Fig.11A and 11B An example of a transmission screen 601 of the MFP 102 is shown.

[0204] Fig.11A This corresponds to a display example of a screen before a destination is set through the send screen 601 of the MFP 102. For example, the user presses Fig. 9 The screen is displayed by clicking the send button 707 as shown.

[0205] exist Fig.11A and 11B 6, a transmission screen 601 is a screen for configuring destinations and scan settings. Destinations set as transmission destinations are displayed in a list form in a destination list 602. The destination is an address of an e-mail, a fax (FAX), a server, or the like. Fig.11A The display example shown shows a destination list 602 in which a transmission destination has not yet been set. When the user presses a destination designation button 609, the screen switches to Fig.13 The address book screen 614 shown enables the user to select a destination from among destinations registered with the address book of the MFP 102 to add the selected destination to the destination list 602 .

[0206] The scan setting button 603 enables the user to change the scan settings.

[0207] When the detailed information button 605 is pressed, the MFP 102 causes the screen to be switched to a screen displaying detailed information of the selected destination. When the destination delete button 606 is pressed, the MFP 102 can delete the selected destination. When the other settings button 607 is pressed, the MFP 102 displays a screen (not shown) for presenting a menu list of changes in the transmission contents. When the button 608 for specifying a destination from a mobile device is pressed, the MFP 102 causes the screen to be switched to a screen displaying detailed information of the selected destination. Fig. 10A or Fig. 10BMobile entry screen 501 is shown.

[0208] Sending screen when receiving destination data

[0209] Next, refer to Fig. 11B and 12 To illustrate the MFP 102 via Communication screen after receiving data from mobile terminal 101.

[0210] Fig. 11B This corresponds to a display example of the screen after the destination is set through the send screen 601 of the MFP 102 .

[0211] When data is received from the mobile terminal 101 via the wireless LAN, as shown in FIG. Fig. 11B As shown, the MFP 102 displays the e-mail address included in the received data in the destination list 602 on the sending screen 601. At this time, the subject, body, file name, etc. included in the received data are not displayed on the sending screen 601. However, the user can confirm and correct the received sending settings by selecting the respective sending setting functions from a screen (not shown) for presenting a menu list of changes in the sending contents displayed by pressing the other setting button 607.

[0212] When through When the communication receives data from the mobile terminal 101, Fig.12 As in the illustrated example, the MFP 102 displays a popup box for notifying the user that data has been received from the mobile terminal 101 .

[0213] Fig.12 An example of a popup box displayed immediately after the setting of e-mail transmission from the mobile terminal 101 is reflected on the transmission screen 601 of the MFP 102 is shown.

[0214] exist Fig.12 In the example, the message bar 611 is a bar for notifying the user that data has been received from the mobile device. When the user presses the OK button 612, the MFP 102 closes the pop-up box including the message bar 611 and displays the Fig. 11B The sending screen 601 is shown.

[0215] Address Book Screen of MFP 102

[0216] Fig.13 6. This shows an example of an address book screen 614 of the MFP 102. The user presses a destination designation button 609, whereby this screen is displayed.

[0217] A destination display field 615 for displaying the destinations registered with the address book held in the HDD 213 of the MFP 102 is prepared on the address book screen 614, and one or more destinations can be selected therefrom. When the user presses an OK button 616, the MFP 102 closes the address book screen 614, and sets the destination selected from the destination display field 615 to the address book screen 614. Fig. 11B 601. When the user presses the cancel button 617, the MFP 102 closes the address book screen 614 and does not update the destination list 602 on the send screen 601.

[0218] Processing of the destination transmission function on the mobile terminal 101 side

[0219] Fig.14A and 14B 1 is a flowchart showing an example of processing of the destination transmission function on the mobile terminal 101 according to the first exemplary embodiment. The CPU 307 executes the application 900 under the control of the platform 902, thus realizing the Fig.14A and 14B Flowchart and Fig.15 In the following description, the processing performed by the application 900 executed by the CPU 307 will be described assuming that the application 900 serves as an executor. In addition, the processing performed by the platform 902 executed by the CPU 307 will be described assuming that the platform 902 serves as an executor.

[0220] In step S3000, upon detecting that a field ( Figure 8 441, 447 and 448) and a field for entering mail information such as subject, file name and body ( Figure 8 442, 444 and 443) as shown, the application 900 stores the input data in the RAM 309.

[0221] Next, in step S3001, the application 900 detects whether the button 445 ( ) for sending data to the printer is pressed on the operation panel 301. Figure 8 ). When pressing is detected, the process proceeds to step S3002.

[0222] In step S3002, the application starts receiving low power consumption More specifically, in order to receive radio waves, the application 900 first requests the platform 902 to receive low power consumption radio waves. Then, platform 902 uses Control unit 903 controls I / F 306 to start receiving low power In this way, the application 900 starts receiving low power radio waves. The platform 902 will start receiving low power radio waves. The radio waves received during communication The broadcast packet is transmitted to the application 900. Then, the application 900 analyzes the received broadcast packet.

[0223] Next, in step S3003, the application 900 determines whether the broadcast packet received in step S3002 contains information of the local name and manufacturer-specific data, and determines whether the MFP 102 corresponding to the destination transmission is found. In other words, the application 900 determines whether the low power consumption The search finds the MFP 102. If the application 900 determines that the MFP 102 is If the search finds the MFP 102 (YES in step S3003 ), the process proceeds to step S3006 .

[0224] In step S3006, the application 900 will use the low power A list of MFPs 102 found by the search is displayed on the operation panel 301 .

[0225] Next, in step S3007, the application 900 detects whether one MFP 102 is selected from the displayed MFPs 102. Upon detecting the selection, the process proceeds to step S3008.

[0226] The mobile terminal 101 may be configured to: If only one MFP 102 is found by the search, it is determined that the MFP 102 is the MFP 102 corresponding to the transmission destination, without the user inputting an operation for selecting the MFP 102. Alternatively, the mobile terminal 101 may be configured to register the MFP 102 corresponding to the destination of data transmission to the mobile terminal 101 in advance (store the MFP 102 in the flash memory 310), and if the MFP 102 is selected by the low power consumption If a registered MFP 102 is found by the search, it is determined that the MFP 102 is the MFP 102 corresponding to the transmission destination without the user inputting an operation for selecting the MFP 102. These configurations enable the application 900 to omit the processing described in steps S3006 and S3007, that is, to omit the user operation for selecting the MFP 102.

[0227] In step S3008, the application 900 determines whether the distance between the mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102 selected in step S3007 is a distance at which data can be transmitted. The above judgment is made by checking whether the RSSI value is lower than the threshold value (-50 dBm in the case of the example shown in Table 5) stored in the flash memory 310. If the RSSI value is less than the threshold value, the application 900 judges that the distance is a distance where data can be transmitted ("Yes" in step S3008). If the RSSI value is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the application 900 judges that the distance is not a distance where data can be transmitted ("No" in step S3008).

[0228] If the application 900 determines that the distance between the mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102 is not a distance at which data can be transmitted (NO in step S3008), the process proceeds to step S3009. In step S3009, the application 900 displays a message prompting the user to move closer to the MFP 102. Then, the process returns to step S3008.

[0229] If the application 900 determines in the above step S3008 that the distance between the mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102 is a distance at which data transmission is possible (YES in step S3008 ), the process proceeds to step S3010 .

[0230] Thus, in step S3010 and subsequent steps, only the user of the mobile terminal 101 located within a distance less than a threshold value (in the present exemplary embodiment, a distance less than 50 cm) can log in to the MFP 102, which ensures that the logged-in user stays in front of the MFP 102 (close to the MFP 102). This is to use low power consumption. One of the advantages brought by communication.

[0231] In step S3010, the application 900 accesses the I / F 306 starts low power consumption GATT communication (e.g., Low Energy More specifically, to start low power The application 900 first requests the platform 902 to start low power consumption with the MFP 102. Then, platform 902 uses Control unit 903 controls I / F 306 to start low power consumption communication with MFP 102 communication.

[0232] Next, in step S3011, the application 900 runs via the low power The application 900 acquires the local login status of the MFP 102 by communicating. More specifically, the application 900 requests the platform 902 to access the MFP 102 via the low power consumption The user authentication service 1000 issued by the communication and the characteristics representing the local login conditions ( Figure 5 The platform 902 then obtains the local login status of the MFP 102 by using the value of StatusID 1001 shown in FIG. Control unit 903 controls I / F 306 can be connected via low power The application 900 communicates with the user authentication service 1000 of the MFP 102 and acquires the value of the StatusID 1001 to acquire the local login status of the MFP 102, and transmits the acquired local login status to the application 900. In this way, the application 900 The local registration condition of the MFP 102 is acquired by communication.

[0233] Next, in step S3012, the application 900 compares the value of StatusID 1001 indicating the local login status of the MFP 102 acquired in the above step S3011 with the values ​​shown in Table 2, and determines whether the MFP 102 is in a state where login is possible.

[0234] If the application 900 determines that the MFP 102 is not in a state where it can log in (NO in step S3012), the process proceeds to step S3023, where the application 900 turns off the low power consumption mode. More specifically, to cut off the low power consumption The application 900 first requests the platform 902 to disconnect the low power consumption communication with the MFP 102. Then, platform 902 uses Control unit 903 controls I / F 306 to disconnect the low power consumption of MFP 102 Communication. Application 900 cuts off low power consumption in this way Communication. In the cut-off low power After the communication, the application 900 ends the processing according to this flow.

[0235] If the application 900 determines in the above-described step S3012 that the MFP 102 is in a state in which login is possible (YES in step S3012 ), the process proceeds to step S3013 .

[0236] In step S3013, the application 900 uses the authentication information 901 ( Figure 4B ) is read out via a low power The application 900 sends a mobile login request to the MFP 102. More specifically, the application 900 requests the platform 902 to communicate with the MFP 102 via the low power The communication will be from the above authentication information 901 ( Figure 4B ) writes the read value into the characteristics UserName 1002 and Password 1003. The application 900 requests the platform 902 to The communication writes the value indicating the login request listed in Table 6 into the feature RequestID 1004. By performing such processing, the application 900 requests the platform 902 to communicate with the user through the low power consumption The platform 902 then communicates to the MFP 102 to request execution of a local login. Control unit 903 controls I / F 306 to write these values ​​to UserName 1002 and Password 1003. In addition, platform 902 uses Control unit 903 controls I / F 306 writes the value indicating the local login listed in Table 6 into RequestID 1004. By performing such processing, platform 902 can The application 900 sends a mobile login request to the MFP 102. When the authentication process is performed on the MFP 102 side according to the request and the authentication result is written to the feature ResultID 1005 ( Figure 5 ), the application 900 is notified via Notification in ATT. The I / F 306 and the platform 902 notify the application 900 of the notification.

[0237] In step S3014, based on the notification, the application 900 executes the low power The communication acquires the authentication result corresponding to the mobile login request issued in the above step S3013 from the MFP 102. More specifically, the application 900 requests the platform 902 to access the MFP 102 via the low power consumption The user authentication service 1000 issued by the communication, and the characteristics representing the authentication result ( Figure 5 The platform 902 then obtains the authentication result corresponding to the mobile login request by using the value of ResultID 1005 shown in FIG. Control unit 903 controls I / F 306 can be connected via low power The communication accesses the user authentication service 1000 and obtains the value of the ResultID 1005 to obtain the authentication result, and transmits the obtained authentication result to the application 900. In this way, the application 900 obtains the authentication result corresponding to the mobile login request issued in the above step S3013.

[0238] Next, in step S3015, the application 900 determines the authentication result obtained in the above step S3014. Then, if the application 900 determines that the authentication fails ("No" in step S3015), the process proceeds to step S3023, where the application 900 turns off the low power consumption. communication, and then terminate the process.

[0239] If the application 900 determines in the above step S3015 that the authentication has succeeded (YES in step S3015 ), the process proceeds to step S3016 .

[0240] In step S3016, the application 900 is connected via the low power Communication acquisition MFP 102 More specifically, the application 900 requests the platform 902 to access the MFP 102 via the low power consumption Published by the communication AP mode start / stop service 1006, and obtain the representation Characteristics of AP mode state ( Figure 5 The value of Status 1007) shown in the figure is used to obtain the status of the MFP 102. Then, platform 902 uses Control unit 903 controls I / F 306 can be connected via low power Communication access AP mode start / stop service 1006 and obtain the value of Status 1007 to obtain the status of MFP 102. AP mode, and the acquired MFP 102 The state of the AP mode is transmitted to the application 900. The application 900 acquires the state of the MFP 102 in this manner. Status of AP mode.

[0241] Next, in step S3017, the application 900 determines the MFP 102 based on the result obtained in step S3016. AP mode is turned on. Then, if the application 900 determines that AP mode is not enabled ( AP mode is in stopped state) (NO in step S3017), the process proceeds to step S3018.

[0242] In step S3018, the application 900 is connected via the low power Communication request to MFP 102 is opened More specifically, the application 900 requests the platform 902 to access the MFP 102 via the low power consumption Published by the communication AP mode start / stop service 1006, and writes a value indicating start in Status 1007 to request the MFP 102 to start. AP mode. Then, platform 902 uses Control unit 903 controls I / F 306 can be connected via low power Communication access AP mode start / stop service 1006 writes a value indicating start in Status 1007 to request the MFP 102 to start. AP mode. In this way, the application 900 requests the MFP 102 to open AP mode After the application 900 performs the processing of step S3018 described above, the processing proceeds to step S3019.

[0243] If the application 900 determines that If the AP mode is on (YES in step S3107 ), the process directly proceeds to step S3019 .

[0244] In step S3019, the application 900 is connected via the low power Communication acquisition with MFP 102 The application 900 requests the platform 902 to access the MFP 102 via the low power consumption Published by the communication Connect to the information acquisition service 1008 and obtain the representation The platform 902 then uses Control unit 903 controls I / F 306, via low power Communication access The application 900 connects to the information acquisition service 1008 and acquires the values ​​of the SSID 1011, KEY 1012, Direct IP Address 1013, and Direct MAC Address 1014, and transmits the acquired values ​​to the application 900. The application 900 acquires the information with the MFP 102 in this way. The values ​​of the information required for connection (SSID, key, direct IP address, direct MAC address, etc.).

[0245] Next, in step S3020, the application 900 turns off the low power consumption The details are the same as those of step S3023 above, so the description thereof will be omitted here.

[0246] In step S3021, the application 900 uses the information acquired in step S3019 to start direct communication with the MFP 102. More specifically, the application 900 requests the platform 902 to start direct communication with the MFP 102 using the information acquired in step S3019 above. Then, the platform 902 controls the wireless LAN I / F 311 using the wireless network control unit 904 to start direct communication with the MFP 102. Then, the application 900 pairs the mobile terminal 101 with the address obtained above, namely, the Direct IP Address 1013 .

[0247] When the pairing is completed, the process proceeds to step S3022, in which the application 900 uses the wireless LAN I / F 311 (ie, via Communication) remotely logs into the MFP 102, and sends data such as the destination and subject stored in the RAM 309 in the above step S3000 to the MFP 102. Fig.15 Step S3022 will be described in detail. Thus, the application 900 performs control so that: upon detecting that the send button 445 is pressed (step S3001), the MFP 102 is logged in through mobile login (step S3013), and based on the success of the mobile login, the MFP 102 is logged in using the mobile login function (step S3014). The communication transmits the above data to the MFP 102 (step S3022) without receiving an instruction for transmitting the data from the user after the mobile login is successful. After the process of step S3022, the application 900 ends the process according to the present flowchart.

[0248] In addition, if the application 900 determines in the above step S3003 that the low power consumption If the search does not find the MFP 102 (NO in step S3003 ), the process advances to step S3004 , where the application 900 activates the camera 304 .

[0249] Next, in step S3005, the application 900 uses the camera 304 to read the mobile portal screen 501 ( Fig. 10A ) 503, and decodes its content. Then, in step S3024, the application 900 obtains the data contained in the data decoded in step S3005. Then, the process proceeds to step S3021. The processes in step S3021 and subsequent steps have been described above, so their description will be omitted here.

[0250] Next, refer to Fig.15 To illustrate Fig. 14B Details of the processing performed in step S3022 are shown.

[0251] Fig.15 is shown in detail in Fig. 14B Flowchart of the processing performed in step S3022 shown.

[0252] In step S1021, the application 900 obtains the information set by the application setting button 412 ( Figure 7 ) and stored in the flash memory 310, and using the authentication information 901, via The application 900 sends a remote login request to the MFP 102. More specifically, the application 900 requests the platform 902 to log in via The communication sends a remote login request using the authentication information 901 to the MFP 102. Then, the platform 902 controls the wireless LAN I / F 311 using the wireless network control unit 904 to communicate with the MFP 102 via the wireless network control unit 904. The communication sends a remote login request using the authentication information 901 to the MFP 102. If the remote login succeeds, the MFP 102 generates a session ID, causing the application 900 to acquire the session ID via the platform 902. If the remote login fails, the process proceeds to step S1021 again (not shown).

[0253] Next, in step S1023, the application 900 Communications will be such as Fig.14A In step S3000 shown in FIG. 1 , the data of the destination and subject etc. stored in the RAM 309 are sent to the MFP 102. More specifically, the application 900 requests the platform 902 to send the data to the MFP 102 via the RAM 309. The communication sends the above data to the MFP 102. Then, the platform 902 controls the wireless LAN I / F 311 using the wireless network control unit 904 to communicate with the MFP 102 via The communication sends the above data to the MFP 102. In this process of step S1023, the application 900 controls so that: the user name contained in the authentication information 901 and the session ID acquired in the above step S1021 are also sent together. The user name and session ID are used to exclude data transmission requests from other users on the MFP 102 side. Fig.17 When receiving a response to data transmission from the MFP 102 , the platform 902 transfers the response to the application 900 .

[0254] Next, in step S1024, the application 900 receives a response to the data transmission and determines whether the data transmission is successful. Then, if the application 900 determines that the data transmission is successful ("Yes" in step S1024), the process proceeds to step S1025.

[0255] In step S1025, the application 900 clears the input on the email transmission setting screen 480, and causes the screen to transition to the application menu screen 406. At the time of the screen transition, the application 900 may display a popup box indicating that data transmission is successful.

[0256] Next, in step S1026, the application 900 determines whether the MFP 102 to which the data is to be transmitted has been stored in the flash memory 310 of the mobile terminal 101. Then, if the application 900 determines that the MFP 102 has not been stored ("No" in step S1026), in step S1027, the application 900 stores information such as the MAC address of the MFP 102 to which the data is to be transmitted in the flash memory 310, and then ends the processing according to the present flowchart.

[0257] If the application 900 determines in the above-described step S1026 that the MFP 102 has already been stored (YES in step S1026 ), the application 900 ends the processing according to the present flowchart without re-storing the MFP 102 .

[0258] If the application 900 determines in the above step S1024 that data transmission has failed ("No" in step S1024), then in step S1028, the application 900 displays an error message on the operation panel 301, and then ends the processing according to this flowchart while maintaining the input on the destination transmission screen 480.

[0259] Processing of the destination transmission function on the MFP 102 side

[0260] Fig.16 1 is a flowchart showing an example of processing on the MFP 102 side when the destination transmission function is used in the MFP 102 according to the first exemplary embodiment without anyone logging into the MFP 102. The CPU 201 of the MFP 102 executes a program executable by the MFP 102 after reading out a program in which a process described later is written from the ROM 202 to the RAM 203, thereby realizing the process described later. Fig.16 and Fig.17 A series of processing shown.

[0261] First, in step S4000 , the CPU 201 of the MFP 102 displays the login screen 701 on the display 211 .

[0262] Next, in step S4001, the CPU 201 receives the I / F 205 detects that mobile terminal 101 has been switched to low power Communication Writes the value indicating the login request listed in Table 6 to the feature RequestID 1004 of the user authentication service 1000 (receive mobile login request). When this is detected, the process proceeds to step S4002.

[0263] In step S4002 , the CPU 201 reads out the values ​​of UserName 1002 and Password 1003 which are characteristics of the same service, and the login service 804 determines whether or not there is data that matches the user authentication information registered to the user account 805 , thereby performing authentication processing.

[0264] Next, in step S4003, the CPU 201 notifies the mobile terminal 101 of the authentication result by writing the authentication result in step S4002 into the ResultID 1005 of the user authentication service 1000. The control unit 807 notifies the currently connected mobile terminal 101 of the change in the value of the authentication result through Notification in ATT. If the authentication is successful at this time, the CPU 201 stores the user name of the user account consistent with the registered user authentication information in the RAM 203, etc. In step S2014 ( Fig.17 ) using the stored username.

[0265] Next, in step S4004, the CPU 201 determines whether the authentication is successful. Then, if the CPU 201 determines that the authentication fails ("No" in step S4004), the process proceeds to step S4012, where the CPU 201 displays an error message on the display 211. Then, the process returns to step S4000.

[0266] If the CPU 201 determines that the authentication is successful ("YES" in step S4004), the processing proceeds to step S4005, where the CPU 201 displays a menu screen 705 on the display 211. Although not shown here, if the authentication is successful, the CPU 201 sets the MFP 102 to the mobile login state, thereby setting the MFP 102 to a state in which it can receive data sent from the mobile terminal 101. If the authentication fails, the state of the MFP 102 is not converted to the mobile login state, and the menu screen 705 is not displayed. In other words, the MFP 102 remains in a state in which it cannot receive data sent from the mobile terminal 101. The login service 804 also changes the value of the StatusID 1001 of the user authentication service 1000. Although Fig.16 Although not shown, the MFP 102 provides the authentication result to the mobile terminal 101 or the like through the user authentication service 1000. Fig. 14B As described in the description of step S3014 shown, the mobile terminal 101 acquires the authentication result (ResultID1005) from the MFP 102 using the user authentication service 1000.

[0267] Next, in step S4006, the CPU 201 determines whether the low power The communication is received from the mobile terminal 101 for opening AP mode request. In this judgment, if I / F 205 detects that it will be turned on The value of AP mode is written If the feature Status 1007 of the AP mode start / stop service 1006 is received, the CPU 201 determines that a request for starting If no update of the value of Status 1007 is detected, the CPU 201 determines that no request for turning on the AP mode has been received. AP mode request ("No" in step S4006). Fig.16 Not shown, but the MFP 102 is AP mode start / stop service 1006 The on state of the AP mode is provided to the mobile terminal 101, etc. Fig. 14B As described in step S3016, the mobile terminal 101 uses The AP mode start / stop service 1006 obtains the Status 1007 from the MFP 102. The AP mode is turned on, etc. Then, Fig. 14B As described in the description of step S3018 shown in FIG. If the AP mode is not in the on state, the mobile terminal 101 sends a signal for turning on the AP mode. AP mode request.

[0268] If the CPU 201 determines in step S4006 that the low power The communication is received from the mobile terminal 101 for opening If the AP mode is requested (YES in step S4006 ), the process proceeds to step S4013 .

[0269] In step S4013, the CPU 201 uses the wireless LAN I / F 206 to start AP mode. When performing this process, the CPU 201 temporarily stores in the RAM 203 whether the initial value of Status 1007 is a value indicating stop. After the CPU 201 performs the process of step S4013, the process proceeds to step S4007.

[0270] If the CPU 201 determines in step S4006 that the low power The communication from the mobile terminal 101 does not receive the If the AP mode is requested (NO in step S4006), the process directly proceeds to step S4007.

[0271] In step S4007, I / F 205 Low power detected When communication is cut off, CPU 201 ends Communication. Fig.16 Not shown, but the MFP 102 is The connection information acquisition service 1008 is used to obtain information such as SSID and key. The information required for the connection is provided to the mobile terminal 101, etc. Fig. 14B As described in the description of step S3019, in low power Before the communication is cut off, the mobile terminal 101 uses The information acquisition service 1008 is connected to acquire the SSID and key etc. from the MFP 102. Then, as Fig. 14B As described in the description of step S3021, for example, in low power After the communication is disconnected, the mobile terminal 101 uses the acquired SSID and key to start direct communication with the MFP 102. Communication connection.

[0272] Next, in step S4017, the CPU 201 detects a data transmission request from the mobile terminal 101 via the wireless LAN I / F 206 or the network I / F 207. Then, if the CPU 201 determines that a data transmission request has not been received (NO in step S4017), the process proceeds to step S4017 again.

[0273] If the CPU 201 determines that a data transmission request has been received (YES in step S4017 ), the processing proceeds to step S4008 .

[0274] In step S4008, the CPU 201 receives a remote login request from the mobile terminal 101, and receives data such as a destination and a subject. Fig.17 The details of step S4008 are described.

[0275] Next, in step S4009, the CPU 201 determines whether the data reception process in the above-described step S4008 is successful. If the CPU 201 determines that the data reception process is successful (YES in step S4009), the process proceeds to step S4010.

[0276] In step S4010, the CPU 201 displays a message in the message field 611 ( Fig.12 ) displays a message indicating that the destination data has been received from the mobile terminal 101, and a sending screen 601 is displayed on the display 211. Then, the process proceeds to step S4011.

[0277] If the CPU 201 determines in the above step S4009 that the data reception processing has failed (NO in step S4009), the CPU 201 returns an error (not shown) to the mobile terminal 101, and the processing directly advances to step S4011 without making any changes to the display on the display 211.

[0278] In step S4011, the CPU 201 determines In this judgment, if the initial value of Status 1007 has been stored in RAM 203 in step S4013 and the value is a value indicating stop, CPU 201 judges that The AP mode is initially in the stopped state ("YES" in step S4011). If the value is not a value indicating the stopped state, the CPU 201 determines that The AP mode is not initially in the stopped state ("No" in step S4011).

[0279] Then, if the CPU 201 determines that If the AP mode is initially in the stopped state (YES in step S4011), the process proceeds to step S4014. In step S4014, the CPU 201 writes a value indicating stop in Status 1007, and instructs the wireless LAN I / F 206 to stop the AP mode, and causes the wireless LAN I / F 206 to stop the AP mode. The AP mode is restored to its initial state. Then, the process proceeds to step S4015.

[0280] If the CPU 201 determines that If the AP mode is not initially in the stopped state (NO in step S4011 ), the process directly proceeds to step S4015 .

[0281] In step S4015, the CPU 201 determines whether an input for starting email transmission is detected on the operation panel 209. Then, if the CPU 201 determines that an input for starting email transmission is not detected (NO in step S4015), the process returns to step S4017.

[0282] If the CPU 201 determines that an input for starting e-mail transmission has been detected (YES in step S4015 ), the processing proceeds to step S4016 .

[0283] In step S4016, the CPU 201 clears the above step S4008 (more specifically, the Fig.17 The session ID stored in step S2022) is then terminated according to the process of this flowchart. Fig.16Not shown, but if an input for starting email transmission is detected (YES in step S4015 ), the CPU 201 performs processing such as reading out a document with the scanner 215 and transmitting an email based on the destination and scan settings set on the transmission screen 601 .

[0284] Next, refer to Fig.17 The details of the processing performed in step S4008 will be described.

[0285] Fig.17 It is an example showing Fig.16 A flowchart showing details of the processing performed in step S4008 is shown.

[0286] In step S2011 , upon detecting a remote login request from the mobile terminal 101 via the wireless LAN I / F 206 or the network I / F 207 , the CPU 201 performs remote login processing, generates a session ID, and transmits the generated session ID to the mobile terminal 101 .

[0287] Next, in step S2013, the CPU 201 receives a data transmission request for the destination or the like transmitted by the mobile terminal 101 in step S1023 via the wireless LAN I / F 206 or the network I / F 207. The data transmission request includes the following information: Fig.15 The user name and session ID described in the description of step S1023 are shown.

[0288] Next, in step S2014, in the case where the MFP 102 performs user management, the CPU 201 determines whether the local login user (ie, Fig.16 The user name stored in step S4003 shown in the figure) and the remote login user detected in step S2011 (i.e., the user name received in step S2013) are consistent. This is to ensure that the user who sends data such as the destination through the mobile terminal 101 stays in front of the MFP 102. In other words, this is to check whether the user who sends data in step S1023 is the same as the user who logs in through the keyboard or Fig. 14B In step S3013 shown in FIG. Whether the user logged in by the mobile login of the communication is the same. If the user logged in to the mobile terminal 101 is locally logged in to the MFP 102, the CPU 201 assumes that the user is staying in front of the device.

[0289] If the CPU 201 determines in step S2014 that the local login user and the remote login user do not match each other (NO in step S2014), the process proceeds to step S2025. In step S2025, the CPU 201 returns an error response to the mobile terminal 101, and then ends the process according to this flowchart.

[0290] If the CPU 201 determines in the above step S2014 that the local login user and the remote login user coincide with each other (YES in step S2014), the process proceeds to step S2015. Although not shown, the process also proceeds to step S2015 when the MFP 102 does not perform login management.

[0291] In steps S2015 and S2016, the CPU 201 checks the session ID included in the data transmission request received in the above step S2013. This is to prevent the MFP 102 from accepting data transmission requests from other users after some users send data such as destinations through the mobile terminal 101 until the start of e-mail transmission. Next, the details will be described.

[0292] In step S2015, CPU 201 determines whether the received request is the first received request. When accepting a request from mobile terminal 101, in step S2022 described later, CPU 201 stores the session ID sent with the request in RAM 203 and keeps the session IP until the request is received. Fig.16 Therefore, in the initial state and after submitting the job of email transmission, the session ID is not retained in RAM 203 (for example, in Fig.16 In step S4016 shown in FIG. 4 , the session ID in the RAM 203 is cleared. Therefore, in step S2015, the CPU 201 determines whether the received request is a request received for the first time based on whether the session ID exists in the RAM 203.

[0293] Then, if the session ID is not stored in the RAM 203 and the CPU 201 determines that the received request is a request received for the first time (YES in step S2015 ), the processing proceeds to step S2017 .

[0294] If the CPU 201 determines that the received request is not the first received request ("No" in step S2015), the processing proceeds to step S2016. In step S2016, the CPU 201 determines whether the session ID contained in the received request is the same as the session ID stored in the RAM 203 (the session ID stored in step S2022 to be described later). Then, if the CPU 201 determines that the session is not the same session as the first received request ("No" in step S2016), the processing proceeds to step S2025. In step S2025, since the request is a transmission request from a mobile device different from the mobile device that first transmitted the request, the CPU 201 does not accept the request, returns an error response to the mobile terminal 101, and then ends the processing according to this flowchart.

[0295] If the CPU 201 determines that the session is the same session as the request received for the first time (YES in step S2016 ), the process advances to step S2017 to cause the CPU 201 to accept the request.

[0296] In step S2017 , the CPU 201 performs loop processing of steps S2018 to S2020 described later as many times as the number of data included in the received request (n=1 to the number of received data).

[0297] First, in step S2018, the CPU 201 determines whether the data n is a destination. Then, if the CPU 201 determines that the data n is a destination ("Yes" in step S2018), in step S2019, the CPU 201 stores the data n as an "additional setting" in the RAM 203. The destination is additionally set so that even if a destination has been set in the destination list 602, the destination is not deleted and a new destination is set in addition to it. In other words, for example, after setting a destination through the address book screen 614 of the MFP 102, the user can add a destination through the mobile terminal 101, and the action of adding a destination through the mobile terminal 101 can be performed any number of times.

[0298] If CPU 201 determines that data n is data other than the destination (any of the subject, body, and file name in the present exemplary embodiment) (NO in step S2018), then in step S2020, CPU 201 stores data n as "overwrite setting" on the same item already stored in RAM 203.

[0299] After the processing of the above step S2019 or S2020, the CPU 201 increments n and repeats the above loop processing until n reaches the number of received data. Then, after the CPU 201 ends the above loop processing, the processing proceeds to step S2021.

[0300] In step S2021, the CPU 201 displays a pop-up message (eg, Fig.12 Then, in step S2022, the CPU 201 stores the session ID acquired from the above request in the RAM 203, and then ends the processing according to this flowchart.

[0301] In other words, if data is received multiple times after the remote login is successful, the CPU 201 controls to process the data received in the second and subsequent receptions in the following manner. If the data has the same session ID as the session ID of the data received for the first time, the CPU 201 sets the data as the data to be used. If the data has a session ID different from the session ID of the data received for the first time, the CPU 201 does not set the data as the data to be used.

[0302] In the above manner, according to the first exemplary embodiment, even in a state before the user locally logs in to the MFP 102 using keyboard login or the like, for example, in a state where the login screen 701 is displayed, the user can send the destination message only by pressing the destination send button ( Figure 8 445 shown in the figure), log in to MFP102 locally by mobile login, and send data such as the destination. Then, MFP 102 can close the login screen 701 according to the data sent from the above-mentioned mobile terminal 101, and can automatically display the sending screen 601 in a state where data such as the destination is set on the display 211 of MFP 102. In this way, the present exemplary embodiment enables the user to easily log in to MFP 102 automatically from mobile terminal 101 and send data from mobile terminal 101 to MFP 102.

[0303] The first exemplary embodiment has been described as an exemplary embodiment in which data such as a destination of an e-mail is transmitted from the mobile terminal 101 to the MFP 102. In the following description, reference will be made to Fig.18 , Fig.19A and 19B as well as Fig. 20 A second exemplary embodiment as an exemplary embodiment in which print data is transmitted from the mobile terminal 101 to the MFP 102 will be described.

[0304] Print function screen of mobile terminal 101

[0305] Fig.18 FIG. 2 shows an example of a print screen used by a user to select print data (e.g., a portable document format (PDF) document) stored in the flash memory 310 from a screen of the mobile terminal 101 and instruct the mobile terminal 101 to send the selected print data to the MFP 102. Figure 6 When the function selection button 402 is pressed on the mobile application menu screen 406 shown, the print screen is displayed by the mobile terminal 101.

[0306] exist Fig.18 On the print screen shown in FIG. 4 , a print data list is displayed in area 460, and area 460 includes check boxes used by the user to select print data. The mobile terminal 101 controls the print data selected by the user by selecting the corresponding check boxes. When the user presses the "Send to Printer" button 461, the mobile terminal 101 performs a process for sending the print data selected by the user in the print data list to the MFP 102 (see later). Fig.19A and 19B When the data transmission to the MFP 102 is completed, the mobile terminal 101 returns the screen to Figure 6 The mobile application menu screen 406 is shown. If data transmission fails, the mobile terminal 101 displays an error and maintains the selection state in the print data list without making changes.

[0307] Process of printing function on the mobile terminal 101 side

[0308] Fig.19A and 19B 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the print data transmission function of the mobile terminal 101 according to the second exemplary embodiment. The CPU 307 executes the application 900 under the control of the platform 902, thereby realizing Fig.19A and 19B The same step numbers are used to represent the series of processing shown in the flowchart. Fig.14A and 14B The same steps are performed, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted below. In the following description, the processing performed by the application 900 executed by the CPU 307 will be described assuming that the application 900 serves as an executor. In addition, the processing performed by the platform 902 executed by the CPU 307 will be described assuming that the platform 902 serves as an executor.

[0309] In step S5000, on the print function screen ( Fig.18), the application 900 stores the selected list data in the RAM 309.

[0310] Next, in step S5001, the application 900 detects that the button 461 for sending data to the printer is pressed on the operation panel 301. When this is detected, the process proceeds to step S3002. Steps S3002 to S3024 are similar to Fig.14A and 14B The same, so the description thereof will be omitted here.

[0311] In step S3021, the application 900 completes communication with the MFP 102. Connection and pairing. When this is completed, the process proceeds to step S5002.

[0312] In step S5002, the application 900 uses the wireless LAN I / F 311 (ie, via The application 900 remotely logs into the MFP 102, reads out the print data contained in the selected list data related to the print data stored in the RAM 309 in the above step S5000 from the flash memory 310, and sends the read print data to the MFP 102. Then, the application 900 ends the processing according to this flowchart. The details of the processing performed in step S5002 are as follows. Fig.15 The processing shown is a detailed flowchart of the processing performed in step S3022, in which the print data contained in the selected list data related to the print data stored in RAM309 in the above-mentioned step S5000 is used to replace the data related to the email such as the destination, subject, text and file name, so its description will be omitted here.

[0313] In other words, the application 900 according to the second exemplary embodiment performs control to log in to the MFP 102 by mobile login (step S3013) based on detection that the button 461 for sending data to the printer is pressed (step S5001), and to use the printer based on the success of the mobile login. The communication sends the print data to the MFP 102 (step S5002) without receiving an instruction for sending the print data from the user after the mobile login succeeds.

[0314] Flow of the Printing Function on the MFP 102 Side

[0315] Fig. 201 is a flowchart showing an example of processing on the MFP 102 side when the destination transmission function is performed in the MFP 102 according to the second exemplary embodiment without anyone logging into the MFP 102. After the CPU 201 of the MFP 102 reads a program executable by the MFP 102 in which the following process is written from the ROM 202 to the RAM 203, the CPU 201 of the MFP 102 executes the program, thereby realizing Fig. 20 In addition, the same step numbers are used to represent the same Fig.16 The steps are the same, so their description will be omitted below.

[0316] The processing of steps S4000 to S4018 and Fig.16 , so the description thereof will be omitted here.

[0317] If the CPU 201 determines in step S4017 that a data transmission request has been received from the mobile terminal 101 via the wireless LAN I / F 206 or the network I / F 207 (YES in step S4017 ), the processing proceeds to step S6000 .

[0318] In step S6000, the CPU 201 receives the print data transmitted from the mobile terminal 101 using the wireless LAN I / F 206 or the network I / F 207. The details of the processing performed in step S6000 are as follows, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted here. Fig.17 In the details of the flowchart showing the processing performed in step S4008, the data related to the electronic mail such as the destination, subject, body, and file name are replaced with print data.

[0319] If the CPU 201 determines in step S4009 that the process for receiving print data in step S6000 described above is successful (YES in step S4009 ), the process proceeds to step S6001 .

[0320] In step S6001, the CPU 201 causes the printer 214 to start processing for printing the print data received in the above-described step S6000. After the CPU 201 performs the processing in step S6001, the process proceeds to step S4011.

[0321] In the above manner, according to the second exemplary embodiment, even in a state before the user logs in to the MFP 102 locally using keyboard login or the like, for example, in a state where the login screen 701 is displayed, the user can send print data by simply pressing a button ( Fig.18461 shown), log in to MFP 102 locally through mobile login and send data such as print data. Then, according to receiving the print data sent from the above-mentioned mobile terminal 101, MFP 102 can close the login screen 701 and automatically print the received print data. In this way, the present exemplary embodiment enables the user to easily log in to MFP 102 automatically from mobile terminal 101 and send data from mobile terminal 101 to MFP 102.

[0322] In the above exemplary embodiments, the system is configured to: without using the access point 103, the access point 103 is directly connected to the network. The mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102 are directly connected by a connection, and data such as a destination or print data is sent from the mobile terminal 101 to the MFP 102. However, the system may also be configured to be connected via the access point 103. In the infrastructure mode, the mobile terminal 101 and the MFP 102 are connected, and data such as a destination or print data is transmitted from the mobile terminal 101 to the MFP 102 .

[0323] In the above exemplary embodiments, the mobile terminal 101 is configured to use low power consumption The communication is obtained from the MFP 102 for communicating with the MFP 102 However, the mobile terminal 101 may be configured so that: the communication with the MFP 102 is set in advance in the mobile terminal 101. The mobile terminal 101 can also be configured such that when there is no communication with the MFP 102 in the mobile terminal 101, the mobile terminal 101 can communicate with the MFP 102. Direct communication of required information using low power The information is acquired from the MFP 102 by communicating.

[0324] In the above exemplary embodiments, the system is configured so that: the user preliminarily The communication is performed by logging into the MFP 102 locally through the mobile terminal 101, and then The communication is performed remotely to send data from the mobile terminal 101 to the MFP 102. However, the communication used when the user logs in to the MFP 102 locally through the mobile terminal 101 is not limited to For example, the system may be configured such that the user logs into the MFP 102 locally through the mobile terminal 101 using other communication methods such as short-range wireless communication called near field communication (NFC) and infrared communication such as Infrared Data Association (IrDA).

[0325] The device to which the mobile terminal 101 connects and transmits data is not limited to the MFP 102 and may be any other type of external device, for example, an information processing device such as a personal computer, a car navigation system, or other home appliances.

[0326] The above exemplary embodiments are configured so that: an information processing device such as a mobile terminal can use a first wireless communication function (such as a low power consumption) suitable for local login communication function) and a second wireless communication function suitable for data transmission (eg The mobile terminal is configured to use a first wireless communication function to log in to the MFP, and based on the success or failure of the login, use a second wireless communication function to send data (e.g., an email address, print data, or various types of setting data including scan settings, etc.) to the MFP.

[0327] An information processing device such as an MFP is configured to communicate with an external device such as a mobile terminal using a first wireless communication function and a second wireless communication function. The MFP is configured to attempt a login process according to a login request from the mobile terminal using the first wireless communication function, perform state management to change the state of the MFP to a state of receiving data transmission from the mobile terminal based on success or failure of the login process, and receive data from the mobile terminal using the second wireless communication function in a receivable state.

[0328] The above configuration enables the user to send data by, for example, only issuing an instruction for sending data on the mobile terminal (for example, only pressing Figure 8 button 445 shown or Fig.18 button 461 shown) to generally implement local login to the MFP (e.g. Fig. 14B Step S3013 shown) and data transmission (eg Fig. 14B Step S3022 shown or Fig.19B In other words, even if the user has not logged into the MFP locally, unlike conventional techniques, the user no longer needs to perform cumbersome operations such as manually logging into the MFP locally in advance and then operating the mobile terminal to send data to the MFP. Therefore, a user-friendly system that enables the user to easily send data from the mobile terminal to the MFP can be constructed.

[0329] The above-mentioned various types of data structures and contents thereof are not limited thereto, and these data may be configured to have various structures and / or various contents according to the intended use and purpose.

[0330] One type of exemplary embodiment has been described, but additional exemplary embodiments may be directed to, for example, a system, an apparatus, a method, a program, or a storage medium. More specifically, the exemplary embodiment may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices, or may also be applied to an apparatus composed of a single device.

[0331] All possible structures constituted by combining the above-described respective exemplary embodiments are also applicable.

[0332] Other embodiments

[0333] The embodiments of the present invention may also be implemented by providing software (program) for performing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and a computer or a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU) of the system or device reads and executes the program.

[0334] The above exemplary embodiments are not limited and can be modified in various ways (including organic combinations of various exemplary embodiments), and these modifications are included in the scope of the present invention. In other words, all the above exemplary embodiments and possible structures that can be formed by combining their modifications are also applicable.

[0335] According to the present invention, data can be easily transmitted from an information processing device to an external device using appropriate wireless communication without forcing a user to perform cumbersome operations.

[0336] Although exemplary embodiments have been described, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications, equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An image processing system, comprising: Image processing equipment; as well as Information terminal, Wherein, the information terminal includes: an instruction receiving unit, for receiving an instruction for sending to a destination designated by a user; a search unit, configured to search for one or more image processing devices through short-range wireless communication based on receipt of the indication; A display unit, configured to display one or more image processing devices found through the search; a first sending unit, configured to send information related to authentication to an image processing device selected from the one or more displayed image processing devices through the short-range wireless communication; and a second transmitting unit for transmitting a destination to the selected image processing device through another wireless communication which is different from the short-range wireless communication and is established by receiving connection information from the selected image processing device, the connection information being transmitted based on success of authentication using the transmitted information, Among them, the selected image processing equipment includes: A first receiving unit, configured to receive information related to the authentication from the information terminal via the short-range wireless communication; A third sending unit, configured to send the connection information to the information terminal based on the success of the authentication; a second receiving unit, configured to receive the destination sent by the information terminal through the other wireless communication; and The control unit is configured to set the received destination as a sending destination to which the selected image processing device sends the image data.

2. An information terminal, comprising: an instruction receiving unit, for receiving an instruction for sending to a destination designated by a user; a search unit, configured to search for one or more image processing devices through short-range wireless communication based on receipt of the indication; A display unit, configured to display one or more image processing devices found through the search; A first sending unit, configured to send the information related to the authentication to an image processing device selected from the one or more displayed image processing devices through the short-range wireless communication, wherein the selected image processing device receives the information related to the authentication from the information terminal through the short-range wireless communication; and a second transmitting unit for transmitting a destination to the selected image processing device through another wireless communication which is different from the short-range wireless communication and is established by receiving connection information from the selected image processing device, the connection information being transmitted based on success of authentication using the transmitted information, The selected image processing device receives the destination transmitted by the information terminal through the other wireless communication, and the selected image processing device sets the received destination as a transmission destination to which the selected image processing device transmits the image data.

3. The information terminal according to claim 2, in, The selected image processing apparatus displays the received destination as the transmission destination on the transmission setting screen.

4. The information terminal according to claim 2, in, The first transmission unit transmits the information after a destination to be transmitted is set by a user operation of the information terminal.

5. The information terminal according to claim 2, in, The first sending unit sends the information after the instruction receiving unit receives the instruction.

6. A control method for an information terminal and an image processing device, the control method comprising: receiving an instruction for sending to a destination specified by a user; Based on the receipt of the indication, searching for one or more image processing devices through short-range wireless communication; displaying one or more image processing devices found through the search; transmitting, through the short-range wireless communication, information related to authentication from the information terminal to an image processing device selected from the one or more displayed image processing devices; Based on the success of the authentication, sending connection information from the selected image processing device to the information terminal; transmitting a destination from the information terminal to the selected image processing device through another wireless communication that is different from the short-range wireless communication and is established by receiving the connection information from the selected image processing device; as well as The received destination is set as a transmission destination to which the selected image processing apparatus transmits the image data.

7. A control method for an information terminal, the control method comprising: receiving an instruction for sending to a destination specified by a user; Based on the receipt of the indication, searching for one or more image processing devices through short-range wireless communication; displaying one or more image processing devices found through the search; transmitting, via the short-range wireless communication, information related to authentication to an image processing device selected from the one or more displayed image processing devices, wherein the selected image processing device receives the information related to authentication from the information terminal via the short-range wireless communication; and transmitting a destination to the selected image processing device through another wireless communication different from the short-range wireless communication and established by receiving connection information from the selected image processing device, the connection information being transmitted based on success of authentication using the transmitted information, The selected image processing device receives the destination transmitted by the information terminal through the other wireless communication, and the selected image processing device sets the received destination as a transmission destination to which the selected image processing device transmits the image data.

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