Connection control device, connection control system, and program

Abstract

The invention provides a connection control device, a connection control system, and a program, capable of ensuring connection of a predetermined type of device. A connection control device according to an embodiment includes a determination unit and a connection control unit. The determination unit determines that the first device is a first type of device among a plurality of types. When the connection control unit receives a request for connection with a second device from the first device, if the first device is not a first type of device, the connection control unit controls the first device to connect with the second device if there is an idle number greater than 'N + 1-the number of first devices of the first type that have established a connection with the second device' among the connectable numbers. The connection with the second device is allowed, otherwise, the connection with the second device is refused, and N is an integer greater than 1.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connection control device, a connection control system and a program. Background Art

[0002] Among devices such as control devices for controlling industrial machinery, there are devices connected to a plurality of display devices, including a main display device for main use and a secondary display device for auxiliary use. In such devices, there is a technology for limiting the number of display devices that can be connected so as not to over-consume resources of a processor such as a CPU (central processing unit).

[0003] Use multiple display devices.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-128476 Summary of the invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] However, in such a device, simply limiting the number of connections will make it impossible to connect the main display device, etc. when the number of connections reaches the upper limit due to the sub-display device, etc.

[0009] An object of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a connection control device, a connection control system, and a program that can ensure connection of a device of a predetermined type.

[0010] Means for solving problems

[0011] The connection control device of the embodiment includes a determination unit and a connection control unit. The determination unit determines that the first device is a device of the first type among multiple types. When the connection control unit receives a request to connect to the second device from the first device, if the first device is not a device of the first type, the connection control unit allows the connection to the second device if there are more than "N+1-the number of the first devices of the first type that have established connections with the second device" in the number of possible connections, otherwise the connection to the second device is rejected, where N is an integer greater than 1.

[0012] Effects of the Invention

[0013] The present invention can ensure connection of a predetermined type of device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1This is a block diagram showing an example of a main configuration of a display system according to the first embodiment and components included in the display system.

[0015] Figure 2 Yes means Figure 1 A flowchart of an example of processing of the first embodiment performed by a processor of the control device in FIG.

[0016] Figure 3 Yes means Figure 1 The display device or Figure 4 Flowchart of an example of the processing of the first embodiment and the second embodiment performed by the processor of the sub-display device.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing an example of a main configuration of a display system according to the second embodiment and components included in the display system.

[0018] Figure 5 Yes means Figure 4 A flowchart of an example of processing of the second embodiment performed by a processor of the control device in FIG.

[0019] Figure 6 Yes means Figure 4 A flowchart of an example of processing according to the second embodiment performed by a processor of a main display device in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Hereinafter, the display system of several embodiments will be described using the accompanying drawings. In addition, the scales of the various drawings used in the following description of the embodiments may be appropriately changed. In addition, the various drawings used in the following description of the embodiments may be displayed by omitting the structure for the purpose of explanation. In addition, in the various drawings and this specification, the same symbols represent the same elements.

[0021] [First embodiment]

[0022] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing an example of the main structure of the display system 1 and the components included in the display system 1 according to the first embodiment. The display system 1 is a system capable of controlling the connection between the control device 100 and the plurality of display devices 200. As an example, the display system 1 includes: the control device 100, the display device 200, and the industrial machine 300. In addition, the number of each device included in the display system 1 is not limited. The display system 1 typically includes a plurality of display devices 200. In addition, the display system 1 is an example of a connection control system.

[0023] The control device 100, the display device 200, and the industrial machine 300 are connected to the network NW. The network NW is typically a communication network including a private network such as an intranet. The network NW is typically a communication network including a LAN (local area network). The network NW may also be a communication network including the Internet. The network NW may also be a communication network including a WAN (wide area network). In addition, the network NW may be a wireless line or a wired line, and wireless lines and wired lines may also exist in a mixed state. In addition, the network NW may also be a communication network including a dedicated line or a public portable telephone network. Each device connected to the network NW typically uses TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) / IP (Internet Protocol) and the like for communication.

[0024] The control device 100 is a device for controlling industrial machinery 300 and the like. The control device 100 can establish a connection with the display device 200 up to the connection limit. In addition, the control device 100 sends an image to each display device 200 to which a connection is established. In addition, establishing a connection means establishing a session or establishing a link, etc. As an example, the control device 100 includes: a processor 110, a ROM (read-only memory) 120, a RAM (random-access memory) 130, an auxiliary storage device 140, a communication interface 150, and a control interface 160. In addition, a bus 170 and the like connect these parts.

[0025] In the first embodiment, the control device 100 is an example of a connection control device. In addition, the control device 100 is an example of a second device.

[0026] The processor 110 is the central part of the computer that performs the operations and controls required for the operation of the control device 100, and performs various operations and processes. The processor 110 is, for example, a CPU, an MPU (micro processing unit), a SoC (system on a chip), a DSP (digital signal processor), a GPU (graphics processing unit), an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), a PLD (programmable logic device), or an FPGA (field-programmable gate array). Alternatively, the processor 110 is a combination of multiple of them. In addition, the processor 110 can also be a combination of hardware accelerators and the like. The processor 110 controls each part to realize various functions of the control device 100 according to programs such as firmware, system software, and application software stored in the ROM 120 or the auxiliary storage device 140. In addition, the processor 110 performs the processing described later according to the program. In addition, part or all of the program can also be loaded into the circuit of the processor 110.

[0027] ROM 120 and RAM 130 are main storage devices of a computer with processor 110 as a core.

[0028] The ROM 120 is a nonvolatile memory dedicated to reading data. The ROM 120 stores, for example, firmware and the like among the above-mentioned programs. In addition, the ROM 120 also stores data and the like used by the processor 110 when performing various processes.

[0029] The RAM 130 is a memory for reading and writing data. The RAM 130 is used as a work area for storing data temporarily used by the processor 110 when performing various processes, etc. The RAM 130 is typically a volatile memory.

[0030] In addition, the processor 110 functions as, for example, the authentication control unit 111 and the connection control unit 112 according to the above-mentioned program.

[0031] The authentication control unit 111 performs authentication control. Details of authentication will be described later.

[0032] The connection control unit 112 controls the connection between the control device 100 and the display device 200 .

[0033] The auxiliary storage device 140 is an auxiliary storage device of a computer with the processor 110 as the core. The auxiliary storage device 140 is, for example, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disk drive), or a flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 140 stores the above-mentioned programs, such as system software and application software. In addition, the auxiliary storage device 140 stores data used by the processor 110 when performing various processes, data generated by the processes in the processor 110, and various setting values.

[0034] In addition, the auxiliary storage device 140 stores a display DB 141 (database) and registration DBs 142 and 142 .

[0035] The display DB 141 stores and manages whether each display device 200 is a main display device 200A or a sub-display device 200B. The main display device 200A is, for example, a display device 200 that is mainly used. The main display device 200A is, for example, a primary display device 200. The sub-display device 200B is, for example, a display device 200 other than the main display device 200A. The sub-display device 200B is, for example, a display device 200 that is used auxiliary. The sub-display device 200B is, for example, a display device 200 that is used remotely from the control device 100. The display DB 141 stores whether each display device 200 is a main display device 200A or a sub-display device 200B, for example, by associating classification information with a display ID (identifier) ​​of each display device 200. The display ID is identification information unique to each display device 200. The classification information is information indicating whether the associated display device 200 is the main display device 200A or the sub-display device 200B. In addition, the upper limit of the number of display devices 200 that can be registered as the main display device 200A in the display DB 141 is usually one. However, the upper limit of the display DB 141 may be more than 2, or may be unlimited. The processor 110 controls so that the number of main display devices 200A registered in the display DB 141 is less than the upper limit. Whether each display device 200 is the main display device 200A or the sub-display device 200B is pre-registered in the display DB 141 by, for example, an administrator or operator of the display system 1.

[0036] The display ID is, for example, the IP address of the display device 200, the MAC (media access control) address, or a number unique to each other display device 200. In addition, the display ID may also be a login ID, etc. The login ID is identification information unique to each account used to log in to the control device 100. The account and login ID may be unique to each display device 200, or may be unique to each user. In addition, a user is, for example, a person who uses the display device 200. In the case where the account and login ID are unique to each user, it is determined by the logged-in user whether the display device 200 becomes the main display device 200A or the sub-display device 200B.

[0037] The registration DB 142 stores and manages information necessary for authentication processing for determining whether an account can log in to the control device 100. The registration DB 142 associates a login ID and a password for each account, and stores a combination of the login ID and the password.

[0038] The communication interface 150 is an interface for the control device 100 to communicate via the network NW, etc. The control device 100 communicates with the display device 200 via the communication interface 150 and the network NW. The communication interface 150 is connected to the network NW using, for example, a LAN cable or a wireless LAN.

[0039] In addition, the communication interface 150 may be connected to the display device 200 and communicate with it without passing through the network NW. This communication may be wired communication or wireless communication.

[0040] In addition, the communication interface 150 may be connected to the display device 200 for communication using a video communication interface such as DisplayPort, HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) (registered trademark), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), or SDI (serial digital interface). The communication interface 150 may be connected to the display device 200 for communication using a universal communication interface such as USB (universal serial bus). In addition, the communication interface 150 may be connected to the display device 200 for communication using other standards.

[0041] The control interface 160 is an interface for the control device 100 to communicate with the industrial machine 300. The control device 100 controls the industrial machine 300 via the control interface 160. In addition, the control interface 160 and the communication interface 150 may be common.

[0042] The bus 170 includes a control bus, an address bus, a data bus, and the like, and transmits signals exchanged between various components of the control device 100 .

[0043] The display device 200 receives an input of an image signal output by the control device 100. And the display device 200 displays an image represented by the image signal. The display device 200 is, for example, a device having a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display. The display device 200 may also be a smart phone, a tablet terminal, a PC, or a server device. As an example, the display device 200 includes: a processor 210, a ROM 220, a RAM 230, an auxiliary storage device 240, a communication interface 250, a display device 260, and an input device 270. And a bus 280 or the like connects these parts.

[0044] The display device 200 is an example of the first device. The main control device 100A is an example of the first device of the first type.

[0045] The processor 210 is the central part of the computer that performs the calculations and controls required for the operation of the display device 200, and performs various calculations and processes. The processor 210 is, for example, a CPU, an MPU, a SoC, a DSP, a GPU, an ASIC, a PLD, or an FPGA. Alternatively, the processor 210 is a combination of multiple of them. In addition, the processor 210 may also be a combination of hardware accelerators and the like. The processor 210 controls each part to realize various functions of the display device 200 according to programs such as firmware, system software, and application software stored in the ROM 220 or the auxiliary storage device 240. In addition, the processor 210 performs the processing described later according to the program. In addition, part or all of the program may also be loaded into the circuit of the processor 210.

[0046] ROM 220 and RAM 230 are main storage devices of a computer with processor 210 as a core.

[0047] The ROM 220 is a nonvolatile memory dedicated to reading data. The ROM 220 stores, for example, firmware and the like among the above-mentioned programs. In addition, the ROM 220 also stores data and the like used by the processor 210 when performing various processes.

[0048] The RAM 230 is a memory for reading and writing data. The RAM 230 is used as a work area for storing data temporarily used by the processor 210 when performing various processes, etc. The RAM 230 is typically a volatile memory.

[0049] In addition, the processor 210 functions as, for example, the authentication request unit 211 according to the above-mentioned program.

[0050] The authentication request unit 211 makes a connection request and an authentication request. The details of the authentication will be described later.

[0051] The auxiliary storage device 240 is an auxiliary storage device of a computer with the processor 210 as the core. The auxiliary storage device 240 is, for example, an EEPROM, an HDD, or a flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 240 stores, for example, system software and application software among the above-mentioned programs. In addition, the auxiliary storage device 240 stores data used by the processor 210 when performing various processes, data generated by the processes in the processor 210, and various setting values.

[0052] The ROM 220, the RAM 230, or the auxiliary storage device 240 stores the display ID of the display device 200. This storage may be temporary or non-temporary.

[0053] The communication interface 250 is an interface for the display device 200 to communicate via the network NW or the like.

[0054] The display device 260 displays a screen for notifying the operator of the display device 200 of various information. The display device 260 is, for example, a display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The display device 260 may be built into the display device 200 or may be external. The display device 260 is an example of a display unit that displays an image.

[0055] The input device 270 receives an operation performed by an operator of the display device 200. The input device 270 is, for example, a keyboard, a keypad, a touchpad, a mouse, or a controller. In addition, the input device 270 may also be a device for voice input. In addition, a touch panel may also be used as the display device 200 and the input device 270. In this case, the display panel of the touch panel functions as the display device 200. In addition, the pointing device based on touch input of the touch panel functions as the input device 270.

[0056] The bus 280 includes a control bus, an address bus, a data bus, and the like, and transmits signals exchanged between various components of the display device 200 .

[0057] The industrial machine 300 is, for example, a machine tool, a manipulator, a robot arm, or a robot.

[0058] Below, according to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The operation of the display system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described below. The processing contents in the following operation description are examples, and various processing that can obtain the same result can be used as appropriate. Figure 21 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the processor 110 of the control device 100. The processor 110 executes, for example, the program stored in the ROM 120 or the auxiliary storage device 140. Figure 2 processing. Figure 3 2 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the processor 210 of the display device 200. The processor 210 executes, for example, the program stored in the ROM 220 or the auxiliary storage device 240. Figure 3 processing.

[0059] exist Figure 3 In step ST31, the processor 210 of the display device 200 determines whether to execute the connection to the control device 100. The processor 210 determines to execute the connection, for example, based on receiving an input indicating the execution of the connection. The input is, for example, an operation input to the input device 270 performed by the operator of the display device 200. Alternatively, the processor 210 determines to execute the connection when receiving information input indicating the execution of the connection from other devices. Alternatively, the processor 210 may determine to execute the connection to the control device 100 when it is in a state where it can communicate with the control device 100. If the processor 210 does not determine to execute the connection to the control device 100, it determines to be no in step ST31 and repeatedly performs the processing of step ST31. In contrast, if the processor 210 determines to execute the connection to the control device 100, it determines to be yes in step ST31 and enters step ST32.

[0060] In addition, the processor 210 may also skip the processing of step ST31 and proceed to step ST32. Figure 3 If the control device 100 is not connected during the processing, the connection to the control device 100 is automatically performed.

[0061] In step ST32, the processor 210 generates a first connection request. The first connection request includes, for example, a display ID, a login ID, and a password. The first connection request is information requesting the control device 100 for authentication using the login ID and the password. In addition, the first connection request is information requesting the destination to establish a connection with the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request. The display ID is a display ID stored in the ROM 220, the RAM 230, or the auxiliary storage device 240. That is, the display ID included in the first connection request is the display ID of the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request. The login ID and the password are input to the input device 270 by the operator of the display device 200, for example. Alternatively, the processor 210 may also obtain at least one of the login ID and the password from the auxiliary storage device 240. In this case, the auxiliary storage device 240 stores at least one of the login ID and the password in advance. In addition, when the login ID is used as the display ID, the display ID and the login ID may also be common. After generating the first connection request, the processor 210 instructs the communication interface 250 to send the first connection request to the control device 100. The communication interface 250 receives the transmission instruction and transmits the first connection request to the control device 100. The transmitted first connection request is received by the communication interface 150 of the control device 100. The process of step ST32 is executed by the authentication request unit 211, for example.

[0062] On the other hand, Figure 2 In step ST11, the processor 110 of the control device 100 waits for reception of a first connection request through the communication interface 150. If the first connection request is received, the processor 110 determines YES in step ST11 and proceeds to step ST12.

[0063] In step ST12, the processor 110 performs authentication processing using the login ID and password included in the first connection request received in step ST11. That is, the processor 110 performs authentication when the combination of the login ID and the password is a correct combination. On the other hand, the processor 110 rejects authentication when the combination of the login ID and the password is not a correct combination.

[0064] The processor 110 refers to the login DB 142 to confirm whether the login ID included in the first connection request received in step ST11 is stored in the login DB 142. If the login ID is stored in the login DB 142, the processor 110 refers to the login DB 142 to confirm whether the password included in the first connection request is associated with the login ID. If the password is associated with the login ID in the login DB 142, the processor 110 determines that the combination of the login ID and the password is a correct combination.

[0065] On the other hand, if the login ID included in the first connection request received in step ST11 is not stored in the login DB 142, the processor 110 does not determine that the combination of the login ID and the password is a correct combination. In addition, if the password included in the first connection request is not associated with the login ID included in the first connection request in the login DB 142, the processor 110 does not determine that the combination of the login ID and the password is a correct combination. The process of step ST12 is processed by, for example, the authentication control unit 111.

[0066] In step ST13, processor 110 determines whether authentication has been performed in the authentication process in step ST12. If processor 110 has rejected authentication, it determines "no" in step ST13 and proceeds to step ST14.

[0067] In step ST14, the processor 110 instructs the communication interface 150 to send a first rejection notification to the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request. The first rejection notification is information indicating that the authentication is rejected in the authentication process. The communication interface 150 receives the transmission instruction and sends the first rejection notification to the display device 200. The transmitted first rejection notification is received by the communication interface 250 of the display device 200. After processing step ST14, the processor 110 returns to step ST11.

[0068] On the other hand, if authentication is performed in the authentication process, processor 110 makes a YES determination in step ST13 and proceeds to step ST15.

[0069] In step ST15, the processor 110 determines whether there is any vacancy in the connectable number. When the number of display devices 200 connected to the control device 100 is less than the upper limit of connection, the processor 110 determines that there is any vacancy in the connectable number. If there is no vacancy in the connectable number, the processor 110 determines as no in step ST15 and proceeds to step ST16.

[0070] In step ST16, the processor 110 instructs the communication interface 150 to send a second rejection notification to the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request. The second rejection notification is information indicating that there is no vacant number of connections. The communication interface 150 receives the transmission instruction and sends the second rejection notification to the display device 200. The second rejection notification sent is received by the communication interface 250 of the display device 200. After processing step ST16, the processor 110 returns to step ST11.

[0071] On the other hand, if there is room for the connectable number, the processor 110 makes a YES determination in step ST15 and proceeds to step ST17 .

[0072] In step ST17, the processor 110 determines whether it is connected to the main display device 200A. That is, the processor 110 determines whether at least one of the display devices 200 connected to the control device 100 is the main display device 200A. If it is connected to the main display device 200A, the processor 110 determines yes in step ST17 and proceeds to step ST18.

[0073] exist Figure 2 In step ST18, the processor 110 of the control device 100 determines whether the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request is the main display device 200A. The processor 110 obtains the display ID included in the first connection request received in step ST11. Then, the processor 110 refers to the display DB 141 to obtain the classification information associated with the display ID. If the classification information indicates the main display device 200A, the processor 110 determines that the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request is the main display device 200A. On the other hand, if the classification information indicates the sub-display device 200B, the processor 110 determines that the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request is the sub-display device 200B. If the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request is not the main display device 200A, the processor 110 determines as no in step ST18 and proceeds to step ST19.

[0074] As described above, processor 110 functions as an example of a determination unit that determines that the first device is a device of the first type among a plurality of types by performing the process of step ST18.

[0075] In step ST19 , the processor 110 determines whether the number of idle connections is greater than or equal to 2. If the number of idle connections is less than or equal to 1, the processor 110 determines “No” in step ST19 and proceeds to step ST20 .

[0076] In step ST20, the processor 110 instructs the communication interface 150 to send a second rejection notification to the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request. Alternatively, the processor 110 instructs the communication interface 150 to send a third rejection notification to the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request. The third rejection notification is information indicating that there is a vacant number of connections, but the connection cannot be made if it is not the main display device 200A. The communication interface 150 receives the sending instruction and sends the second rejection notification or the third rejection notification to the display device 200. The second rejection notification or the third rejection notification sent is received by the communication interface 250 of the display device 200. After processing step ST20, the processor 110 returns to step ST11.

[0077] On the other hand, Figure 3In step ST33, the processor 210 of the display device 200 determines whether a rejection notification is received through the communication interface 250. The rejection notification is a general term for the first rejection notification to the third rejection notification. If the rejection notification is not received, the processor 210 determines no in step ST33 and proceeds to step ST34.

[0078] In step ST34, the processor 210 determines whether a permission notification is received through the communication interface 250. If a permission notification is not received, the processor 210 determines NO in step ST34 and returns to step ST33. In this way, the processor 210 becomes a waiting state of repeatedly performing steps ST33 and ST34 until a rejection notification or a permission notification is received.

[0079] When the processor 210 receives a rejection notification while in the waiting state of steps ST33 and ST34 , it makes a YES determination in step ST33 and proceeds to step ST35 .

[0080] In step ST35, the processor 210 generates an image corresponding to the rejection screen. Then, the processor 210 instructs the display device 200 to display the generated image. The display device 200 receives the display instruction and displays the rejection screen.

[0081] The rejection screen is a screen for notifying the operator of the display device 200, etc. that the display device 200 cannot establish a connection with the control device 100. The rejection screen includes, for example: an image indicating that the display device 200 cannot establish a connection with the control device 100, and an image indicating the reason why the connection cannot be established. In addition, characters are a type of image. In the case where the received rejection notification is the first rejection notification, the reason why the connection cannot be established is that the authentication is rejected. In the case where the received rejection notification is the second rejection notification, the reason why the connection cannot be established is that there are no vacancies in the number of connections that can be made. In the case where the received rejection notification is the third rejection notification, the reason why the connection cannot be established is that there are vacancies in the number of connections that can be made, but the connection cannot be made because it is not the main display device 200A. After processing step ST35, the processor 210 returns to step ST31.

[0082] On the other hand, if the main display device 200A is not connected, the processor 110 of the control device 100 Figure 2 In step ST17, the processor 110 determines no and proceeds to step ST11. In addition, if the display device 200 that sends the first connection request is the main display device 200A, the processor 110 determines yes in step ST18 and proceeds to step ST21. In addition, if the number of idle connections is 2 or more, the processor 110 determines yes in step ST19 and proceeds to step ST21.

[0083] In step ST21, the processor 110 instructs the communication interface 150 to send a permission notification to the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request. The permission notification is information indicating permission to establish a connection with the control device 100. The communication interface 150 receives the transmission instruction and sends the permission notification to the display device 200. The transmitted permission notification is received by the communication interface 250 of the display device 200.

[0084] As described above, the processor 110 allows the connection of the sub-display device 200B to the control device 100 when the number of idle connections is 1 or more when the control device 100 is connected to the main display device 200A through the processing of steps ST17 to ST21. Furthermore, the processor 110 allows the connection of the sub-display device 200B to the control device 100 when the number of idle connections is 2 or more when the control device 100 is not connected to the main display device 200A. That is, the processor 110 allows the connection of the sub-display device 200B to the control device 100 when the number of connectable connections is "2-the number of first devices of the first type that have established a connection with the second device" or more.

[0085] Therefore, the processor 110 functions as an example of a connection control unit by performing steps ST17 to ST21. When the connection control unit receives a request to connect to a second device from a first device, if the first device is not a first type of device, the connection control unit allows connection to the second device if the number of connectable devices is more than "2 - the number of first devices of the first type that have established connections to second devices", and otherwise refuses connection to the second device.

[0086] On the other hand, if in Figure 3 If the processor 210 receives a permission notification while in the waiting state of step ST33 and step ST34, the processor 210 makes a YES determination in step ST34 and proceeds to step ST36.

[0087] In step ST36 , processor 210 cooperates with control device 100 to perform processing for establishing a connection with control device 100 .

[0088] On the other hand, Figure 2 In step ST22, the processor 110 of the control device 100 cooperates with the display device 200 to establish a connection with the display device 200. In this way, the control device 100 and the display device 200 are connected through Figure 2 Step ST22 and Figure 3 The process of step ST36 establishes a connection between the control device 100 and the display device 200. Figure 2The processing of steps ST15 to ST22 is performed by, for example, the connection control unit 112.

[0089] In step ST23, processor 110 uses the established connection to start transmitting an image to display device 200. Communication interface 150 transmits the image to display device 200. The transmitted image is received by communication interface 250 of display device 200. After processing step ST23, processor 110 returns to step ST11.

[0090] As described above, the processor 110 controls the communication interface 150 to receive an image, thereby cooperating with the communication interface 150 to function as an example of a receiving unit that receives an image transmitted from the second device connected to the display device.

[0091] On the other hand, Figure 3 In step ST37, the processor 210 of the display device 200 controls the display device 260 to display the image received by the communication interface 250. According to this control, the display device 260 starts to display the image.

[0092] In step ST38, the processor 210 waits for disconnection of the connection established with the control device 100. The disconnection reason may be, for example, a communication failure, a timeout, or no operation. The processor 110 of the control device 100 may disconnect the communication established with the display device 200, for example, when no operation continues for a predetermined time or longer, that is, when no operation is performed on the display device 200 for a predetermined period or longer.

[0093] If the connection with the control device 100 is disconnected, the processor 210 determines YES in step ST38 and returns to step ST31. Alternatively, the processor 210 may return to step ST32 and try to connect again.

[0094] The display system 1 of the first embodiment refuses the connection if the number of free connections of the control device 100 is not greater than "2 - the number of main display devices 200A connected to the control device 100" when the display device 200 requesting connection to the control device 100 is the sub-display device 200B. Thus, one main display device 200A of the display system 1 of the first embodiment can reliably connect to the control device 100. That is, the display system 1 of the first embodiment ensures that a device of a predetermined type, such as the main display device 200A, can connect to the control device 100.

[0095] Furthermore, according to the display system 1 of the first embodiment, the control device 100 performs connection control. Therefore, the main display device 200A does not need to have a special function compared to the sub-display device 200B.

[0096] The above-mentioned first embodiment may be modified as follows.

[0097] In the first embodiment described above, the control device 100 sets one of the connectable numbers as the main display device 200A. However, the control device 100 may also set two or more of the connectable numbers as the main display device 200A. Generally speaking, the control device 100 sets N of the connectable numbers as the main display device 200A. In this case, the processor 110 of the control device 100 determines in step ST17 whether the N main display devices 200A are connected. Then, the processor 110 determines in step ST19 whether the number of idle connections is greater than "N+1 - the number of main display devices 200A connected to the control device 100". Here, N is an integer greater than 1.

[0098] Thus, when the display device 200 requesting connection to the control device 100 is the secondary display device 200B, if the number of idle connections of the control device 100 is not greater than "N+1 - the number of main display devices 200A connected to the control device 100", the display system 1 of the embodiment rejects the connection. Thus, the N main display devices 200A of the display system 1 of the embodiment can be reliably connected to the control device 100.

[0099] [Second embodiment]

[0100] The display system 1b of the second embodiment is connected and controlled by a main display device 200A instead of the control device 100. In the description of the second embodiment, description of the same parts as those of the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0101] Figure 4 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a main configuration of a display system 1b and components included in the display system 1b according to the second embodiment. Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the illustration of the industrial machine 300 is omitted. Figure 4 In the embodiment, only one control device 100, one main display device 200A, and one sub-display device 200B are shown, but the number of each device is not limited. In addition, the display system 1b is an example of a connection control system.

[0102] The processor 110 of the control device 100 according to the second embodiment may not function as the connection control unit 112 .

[0103] The processor 210 of the main display device 200A in the second embodiment functions as an authentication request unit 211 and a connection control unit 212. The processor 210 of the sub-display device 200B functions as an authentication request unit 211 similarly to the first embodiment.

[0104] In the second embodiment, the auxiliary storage device 240 of the main display device 200A stores the display DB 141. The auxiliary storage device 140 of the control device 100 may not store the display DB 141.

[0105] In the second embodiment, the main display device 200A is an example of a connection control device.

[0106] Below, according to Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The operation of the display system 1 according to the second embodiment will be described below. The processing contents in the following operation description are examples, and various processing that can obtain the same result can be used as appropriate. Figure 5 1 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the processor 110 of the control device 100. The processor 110 executes, for example, the program stored in the ROM 120 or the auxiliary storage device 140. Figure 5 processing. Figure 6 2 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the processor 210 of the main display device 200A. The processor 210 executes, for example, a program stored in the ROM 220 or the auxiliary storage device 240. Figure 6 In addition, the main display device 200A and the sub-display device 200B of the display device 200 perform the same processing as in the first embodiment. Figure 3 In addition, the main display device 200A executes, for example, Figure 3 as well as Figure 6 processing.

[0107] In the second embodiment, the processor 210 of the display device 200 Figure 3 In step ST32, the processor 210 of the main display device 200A sends the first connection request to the main display device 200A instead of the control device 100. Regarding the first connection request of the second embodiment, in step ST32, the processor 210 of the main display device 200A sends the first connection request to itself using a loopback address or the like. Alternatively, the processor 210 of the main display device 200A may send the first connection request to the execution unit instead of sending the first connection request. Figure 6 The processor 210 of the main display device 200A also transmits or inputs other information in the same manner when sending the information to itself.

[0108] In the second embodiment, the processor 210 of the main display device 200A executes the Figure 6However, in the second embodiment, the "communication interface 150" in the processing description of step ST11 and step ST15 to step ST21 in the first embodiment is replaced with "communication interface 250".

[0109] In the second embodiment, if the processor 210 makes a YES determination in step ST11 , the process proceeds to step ST51 .

[0110] In step ST51, the processor 210 generates an authentication request. The authentication request includes the login ID and password included in the first connection request received in step ST11. The authentication request is information for requesting the control device 100 to perform authentication using the login ID and the password. After generating the authentication request, the processor 210 instructs the communication interface 150 to send the authentication request to the control device 100. The communication interface 150 receives the sending instruction and sends the authentication request to the control device 100. The sent authentication request is received by the communication interface 250 of the control device 100.

[0111] On the other hand, Figure 5 In step ST41, processor 110 of control device 100 determines whether an authentication request is received through communication interface 150. If no authentication request is received, processor 110 determines "no" in step ST41 and proceeds to step ST42.

[0112] In step ST42, the processor 110 determines whether the second connection request is received through the communication interface 150. If the second connection request is not received, the processor 110 determines no in step ST42 and returns to step ST41. In this way, the processor 110 becomes a waiting state of repeatedly performing steps ST41 and ST42 until an authentication request or a second connection request is received.

[0113] When the processor 110 receives an authentication request while in the waiting state of steps ST41 and ST42 , it makes a YES determination in step ST41 and proceeds to step ST12 .

[0114] In the second embodiment, processor 110 performs authentication processing in step ST12 using the login ID and password included in the authentication request received in step ST41.

[0115] In the second embodiment, if the processor 110 makes a YES determination in step ST13 , the process proceeds to step ST43 .

[0116] In step ST43, the processor 110 instructs the communication interface 250 to send an authentication notification to the main display device 200A that is the source of the authentication request. The communication interface 250 receives the transmission instruction and sends the authentication notification to the main display device 200A. The sent authentication notification is received by the communication interface 150 of the display device 200. After processing step ST43, the processor 110 returns to step ST41.

[0117] On the other hand, Figure 6 In step ST52, the processor 210 of the main display device 200A determines whether the first rejection notification is received through the communication interface 250. If the first rejection notification is not received, the processor 210 determines "no" in step ST52 and proceeds to step ST53.

[0118] In step ST53, the processor 210 determines whether an authentication notification is received through the communication interface 250. If the authentication notification is not received, the processor 210 determines in step ST53 that it is no and returns to step ST52. In this way, the processor 210 becomes a waiting state of repeatedly performing steps ST52 and ST53 until the first rejection notification or the authentication notification is received.

[0119] If the first rejection notification is received while in the waiting state of step ST52 and step ST53, processor 210 determines YES in step ST52 and proceeds to step ST14.

[0120] In step ST14 , the processor 210 may also forward the first rejection notification received in step ST52 to the display device 200 .

[0121] In addition, Figure 5 In step ST14, the processor 110 sends a first rejection notification to the display device 200 that sent the first connection request in addition to the main display device 200A. Figure 6 Step ST14 is not performed during the processing.

[0122] If the authentication notification is received while in the waiting state of step ST52 and step ST53, the processor 210 makes a YES determination in step ST53 and proceeds to step ST15.

[0123] In the second embodiment, the processor 210 may determine in step ST18 that the display device 200 that sent the first connection request is the main display device 200A when the display ID included in the first connection request received in step ST11 is the display ID indicating the display device 200 itself. The display ID indicating the display device 200 itself is, for example, a loopback address. Furthermore, the processor 210 may determine that the display device 200 that sent the first connection request is the sub-display device 200B when the display ID included in the first connection request is not the display ID indicating the display device 200 itself.

[0124] After processing step ST21 , the processor 210 proceeds to step ST54 .

[0125] In step ST54, the processor 210 instructs the communication interface 150 to send a second connection request to the control device 100. The second connection request includes information for identifying the display device 200 that is the source of the first connection request. The second connection request is information requesting to establish a connection with the display device 200. The information is, for example, the display ID or IP address of the source. The communication interface 150 receives the sending instruction and sends the second connection request to the control device 100. The sent second connection request is received by the communication interface 250 of the control device 100. After processing step ST54, the processor 210 returns to step ST11.

[0126] Figure 6 The processing of steps ST15 to ST21 and step ST54 is performed by, for example, the connection control unit 212.

[0127] The processor 210 functions as an example of a connection control unit by performing steps ST17 to ST21, wherein, when the connection control unit receives a request to connect to a second device from a first device, if the first device is not a first type of device, the connection to the second device is allowed if the number of connectable devices is more than "2 - the number of first devices of the first type that have established connections to second devices", and otherwise the connection to the second device is rejected.

[0128] By performing the process of step ST18 , the processor 210 functions as an example of a determination unit that determines that the first device is a device of the first type among the plurality of types.

[0129] If the processor 110 receives the second connection request while in the waiting state of step ST41 and step ST42 , the processor 110 makes a YES determination in step ST42 and proceeds to step ST44 .

[0130] In step ST44, the processor 110 performs a process of establishing a connection with the display device 200 indicated by the second connection request received in step ST42. The processor 110, for example, Figure 2 In other words, the control device 100 and the main display device 200A establish a connection by cooperating with the display device 200A. Figure 5 Step ST44 and Figure 3 The processor 110 establishes a connection between the control device 100 and the display device 200 by performing the processing of step ST36. Alternatively, the processor 110 establishes a connection in cooperation with the main display device 200A, which is the source of the second connection request, in addition to the display device 200. In addition, the control device 100 may establish a connection with the display device 200 without going through the main display device 200A, or may establish a connection with the display device 200 through the main display device 200A. In this case, for example, a connection is established between the control device 100 and the main display device 200A, and between the main display device 200A and the display device 200.

[0131] In step ST45, the processor 110 uses the established connection to start sending an image to the display device 200 indicated by the second connection request. The communication interface 150 sends the image to the display device 200. The sent image is received by the communication interface 250 of the display device 200. In addition, the processor 110 may also send the image to the display device 200 via the main display device 200A that is the sending source of the second connection request. That is, the communication interface 150 sends the image to the main display device 200A. The sent image is received by the communication interface 250 of the main display device 200A. And, the main display device 200A that receives the image sends the image to the display device 200. After processing step ST45, the processor 110 returns to step ST41.

[0132] In the display system 1b of the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, one main display device 200A can be reliably connected to the control device 100. That is, the display system 1b of the second embodiment ensures that a predetermined type of device such as the main display device 200A can be connected to the control device 100.

[0133] Furthermore, according to the display system 1b of the second embodiment, the main display device 200A functions as the connection control unit 212. Thus, the display system 1b of the second embodiment can perform connection control so that one main display device 200A can be reliably connected to the control device 100 even when the control device 100 does not have the function of the connection control unit 112.

[0134] The second embodiment described above may be modified as follows.

[0135] In the above-mentioned second embodiment, the main display device 200A sets one of the connectable number as the main display device 200A. However, the control device 100 may also set two or more of the connectable number as the main display device 200A. Generally speaking, the main display device 200A sets N of the connectable number as the main display device 200A. In this case, the processor 210 of the main display device 200A determines in step ST17 whether the N main display devices 200A are connected. Then, the processor 210 determines in step ST19 whether the number of idle connections is greater than "N+1 - the number of main display devices 200A connected to the control device 100".

[0136] Thus, when the display device 200 requesting connection to the control device 100 is the secondary display device 200B, if the number of idle connections of the control device 100 is not greater than "N+1 - the number of main display devices 200A connected to the control device 100", the display system 1 of the embodiment rejects the connection. Thus, the N main display devices 200A of the display system 1 of the embodiment can be reliably connected to the control device 100.

[0137] The processor 210 of the sub-display device 200B may not function as the authentication request unit 211. In this case, the main display device 200A functions as the authentication request unit 211 instead of the sub-display device 200B.

[0138] The above-mentioned embodiments, that is, the first embodiment and the second embodiment, may be modified as follows.

[0139] In the above-described embodiment, the display device 200 that has been authenticated in the authentication process can be connected to the control device 100. However, the authentication process may not be necessary.

[0140] The processor 210 of the main display device 200A may also function as an authentication control unit. In other words, the main display device 200A may perform authentication processing instead of the control device 100 .

[0141] In the above embodiment, the display device 200 is divided into two types: a main display device 200A and a sub-display device 200B. However, the display device 200 may also be divided into multiple types by other division methods. One of the types is a first type of device. In addition, the number of types may be three or more.

[0142] In the above-described embodiment, the device connected to the control device 100 is the display device 200. However, the device connected to the control device 100 may be another device instead of the display device 200.

[0143] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the connection control device of the embodiment is described by taking the control device 100 for controlling the industrial machine 300 as an example. However, the connection control device of the embodiment is not limited thereto. The connection control device of the embodiment may be, for example, a device for controlling a machine or device other than an industrial machine, or may be a PC (personal computer), a server device, or other computers.

[0144] In the above-mentioned embodiment, a part of the processing to be executed by the control device 100 may be executed by the display device 200. In the above-mentioned embodiment, a part of the processing to be executed by the display device 200 may be executed by the control device 100. In the above-mentioned embodiment, a part of the processing to be executed by the main display device 200A may be executed by the sub-display device 200B. In the above-mentioned embodiment, a part of the processing to be executed by the sub-display device 200B may be executed by the main display device 200A.

[0145] The processor 110 and the processor 210 may implement a part or all of the processing implemented by the program in the above-mentioned embodiments through a hardware structure of a circuit.

[0146] The program for implementing the processing of the embodiment is transmitted, for example, in a state of being stored in a non-transitory storage medium in the device. However, the device may also be transferred without storing the program. Then, the program may be transmitted by other means and written to the device. The program transmission in this case may be realized, for example, by removably recording in a non-transitory storage medium or downloading via a network such as the Internet or a LAN.

[0147] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but these are presented as examples and do not limit the scope of the present invention. The embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in various forms within the scope of the present invention.

[0148] Explanation of symbols

[0149] 1.1b Display system

[0150] 100 Control device

[0151] 110, 210 processors

[0152] 111 Authentication Control Department

[0153] 112 Connection control unit

[0154] 120, 220 ROM

[0155] 130, 230 RAM

[0156] 140, 240 Auxiliary storage device

[0157] 141 Display DB

[0158] 142 Login DB

[0159] 150, 250 communication interface

[0160] 160 Control interface

[0161] 170, 280 bus

[0162] 200 Display device

[0163] 200A Main Display Unit

[0164] 200B Auxiliary display device

[0165] 211 Certification Request Department

[0166] 260 Display devices

[0167] 270 Input Devices

[0168] 300 Industrial machinery.

Claims

1. A connection control device, characterized in that: have: a determination unit that determines that the first device is a device of a first type among a plurality of types; as well as A connection control unit, which, when receiving a request for connection with a second device from the first device, allows connection with the second device if the first device is not a first type of device if there are more than "N+1 - the number of the first devices of the first type that have established connections with the second device" of available connections, and otherwise refuses connection with the second device, wherein N is an integer greater than 1.

2. The connection control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connection control device is the second device.

3. The connection control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connection control device is the first device of the first type.

4. The connection control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: N is 1.

5. A connection control system, characterized in that: Include: Connect the control device and the display device, The connection control device comprises: a determination unit configured to determine that the display device is a display device of a first type among a plurality of types; as well as a connection control unit, which, when receiving a request for connection with a second device from the display device, allows connection with the second device if there are more than "N+1 - the number of display devices of the first type connected to the second device" in the connectable number if the display device is not the first type of the display device, and otherwise refuses connection with the second device, wherein N is an integer greater than 1, The display device comprises: a receiving unit that receives an image transmitted from the second device connected to the display device; and A display unit displays the image.

6. A program, characterized in that The processor included in the connection control device is made to function as the following: a determination unit that determines that the first device is a device of a first type among a plurality of types; as well as A connection control unit, which, when receiving a request for connection with a second device from the first device, allows connection with the second device if the first device is not a first type of device if there are more than "N+1 - the number of the first devices of the first type that have established connections with the second device" of available connections, and otherwise refuses connection with the second device, wherein N is an integer greater than 1.

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