Wireless timepiece system, wireless timepiece and methods performed thereby

Abstract

Provided are a wireless timepiece system, a wireless timepiece, a method executed by the wireless timepiece system, and a method executed by the wireless timepiece, which are capable of shortening the time required to register the wireless timepiece to a terminal device. The wireless timepiece includes: a setting unit that sets a first transmission interval of a first signal requesting registration of wireless timepiece identification information and a second transmission interval of a second signal not requesting registration of the wireless timepiece identification information; and a communication control unit that transmits the first signal at a first transmission interval set by the setting unit and transmits the second signal at a second transmission interval, the first transmission interval being shorter than the second transmission interval, and the terminal device is provided with a registration unit that registers wireless timepiece identification information on the basis of the first signal transmitted by the wireless timepiece.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present invention relate to a wireless clock system, a wireless clock, a method performed by a wireless clock system, and a method performed by a wireless clock. Background Technology

[0002] Techniques for wireless communication by registering the unique ID of a peripheral device with a central device are known (e.g., see Patent Document 1). For example, in the case where the central device and the peripheral device communicate using the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) wireless standard, the peripheral device sends broadcast packets, the central device receives the broadcast packets from the peripheral device, and updates the broadcaster list. The central device, based on the device selected by the user from the broadcaster list, sends a connection request to the selected device.

[0003] Prior technology literature [Patent Documents] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent No. 7087314. Summary of the Invention

[0004] [The problem the invention aims to solve] If the broadcast packets sent by the wireless module of a peripheral device are sent at long intervals, it will be difficult for the central device to discover the peripheral device. In cases where it is difficult for the central device to discover the peripheral device, time is required for the peripheral device to register or for time synchronization between the peripheral device and the central device.

[0005] Especially in offices or schools, broadcast packets are easily transmitted from many terminal devices or personal computers, making crosstalk a significant concern. Therefore, in locations like offices or schools with numerous terminal devices or personal computers, registering many wireless clocks at once and synchronizing them requires even more time.

[0006] On the other hand, shortening the broadcast transmission interval improves connectivity, but increases the transmission frequency, which in turn increases the current consumption of the wireless module and shortens battery life.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a wireless clock system, a wireless clock, a method performed by the wireless clock system, and a method performed by the wireless clock that can shorten the time required to register a wireless clock to a terminal device.

[0008] [Solutions for solving the problem] One embodiment of the present invention is a wireless clock system comprising a wireless clock and a terminal device. The wireless clock includes: a setting unit that sets a first transmission interval for a first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information and a second transmission interval for a second signal not requesting registration of the wireless clock identification information; and a communication control unit that transmits the first signal at the first transmission interval set by the setting unit and transmits the second signal at the second transmission interval, wherein the first transmission interval is shorter than the second transmission interval. The terminal device includes a registration unit that registers the wireless clock identification information based on the first signal transmitted by the wireless clock.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, in the aforementioned wireless clock system, the aforementioned terminal device further includes a time synchronization unit that performs time synchronization of the aforementioned wireless clock based on the aforementioned wireless clock identification information registered by the aforementioned registration unit.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, in the aforementioned wireless clock system, the aforementioned communication control unit transmits the aforementioned first signal at the aforementioned first transmission interval based on operation.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned wireless clock system further includes a generation unit for generating a first signal including a universally unique identifier, and the aforementioned communication control unit transmits the aforementioned first signal generated by the aforementioned generation unit at the aforementioned first transmission interval.

[0012] One embodiment of the present invention is a wireless clock, comprising: a setting unit that sets a first transmission interval for a first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information and a second transmission interval for a second signal not requesting registration of the aforementioned wireless clock identification information; and a communication control unit that transmits the aforementioned first signal at the aforementioned first transmission interval set by the setting unit and transmits the aforementioned second signal at the aforementioned second transmission interval, wherein the aforementioned first transmission interval is shorter than the aforementioned second transmission interval.

[0013] One embodiment of the present invention is a method performed by a wireless clock system, comprising: a step in which the wireless clock sets a first transmission interval for a first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information and a second transmission interval for a second signal not requesting registration of the wireless clock identification information; a step in which the wireless clock transmits the first signal at the first transmission interval set in the aforementioned setting step and transmits the second signal at the aforementioned second transmission interval; and a step in which the terminal device registers the wireless clock identification information based on the first signal transmitted by the wireless clock, wherein the first transmission interval is shorter than the second transmission interval.

[0014] One embodiment of the present invention is a method performed by a wireless clock, comprising: setting a first transmission interval for a first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information and a second transmission interval for a second signal not requesting registration of the aforementioned wireless clock identification information; and transmitting the aforementioned first signal at the aforementioned first transmission interval set in the aforementioned setting step and transmitting the aforementioned second signal at the aforementioned second transmission interval, wherein the aforementioned first transmission interval is shorter than the aforementioned second transmission interval.

[0015] [Invention Effects] According to embodiments of the present invention, a wireless clock system, a wireless clock, a method performed by the wireless clock system, and a method performed by the wireless clock can be provided that can shorten the time required to register a wireless clock to a terminal device. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of a wireless clock system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the wireless clock according to this embodiment.

[0018] Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a wireless clock according to this embodiment.

[0019] Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a wireless clock according to this embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the terminal device according to this embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates an example of the functional configuration of the control unit of the wireless clock according to this embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6A This is a diagram showing an example of the first and second signals.

[0023] Figure 6B This is a diagram showing an example of the first and second signals.

[0024] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates an example of the functional configuration of the control unit of the terminal device according to this embodiment.

[0025] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the wireless clock system according to this embodiment.

[0026] Figure 9This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the control unit of a wireless clock according to a variation of the embodiment.

[0027] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the control unit of a terminal device according to a variation of the embodiment.

[0028] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of a wireless clock system according to a variation of the implementation. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Next, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the wireless clock system, the wireless clock, the method performed by the wireless clock system, and the method performed by the wireless clock of this embodiment will be described. The embodiments described below are merely examples, and the embodiments applicable to this invention are not limited to the following embodiments.

[0030] Furthermore, in all the figures used to illustrate the embodiments, components with the same function are represented by the same symbols, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0031] Furthermore, the phrase "based on XX" in this application means "at least based on XX," and also includes cases where it is based on other elements besides XX. Additionally, "based on XX" is not limited to the direct use of XX, but also includes cases where it is based on a structure that has been processed or manipulated from XX. "XX" can be any element (e.g., any information).

[0032] (Implementation Method) (Wireless clock system) Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of a wireless clock system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The wireless clock system 1 includes wireless clocks 100-1 to 100-n (n is an integer n>0) and a terminal device 200.

[0033] The wireless clocks 100-1 to 100-n communicate wirelessly with the terminal device 200 based on short-range wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth Low Energy (hereinafter also referred to as "BLE"). The following explanation continues with an example of short-range wireless communication, illustrating the application of BLE. BLE refers to the standard developed for low power consumption in the short-range wireless communication standard known as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0034] In this embodiment, based on BLE, each of the wireless clocks 100-1 to 100-n operates as a peripheral device for transmitting broadcast packets, and the terminal device 200 operates as a central device for receiving broadcast packets. Hereinafter, any one of the wireless clocks 100-1 to 100-n will be referred to as wireless clock 100.

[0035] Next, the wireless clock 100 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the wireless clock according to this embodiment. The wireless clock 100 includes a wireless module 102, a control unit 104, an operation unit 106, a display unit 107, a timing unit 108, and a storage unit 110.

[0037] The wireless module 102 transmits and receives BLE-based wireless signals via antenna AN1. The wireless module 102 includes a ROM 103. Following instructions from the control unit 104, the wireless module 102 performs various processes related to the transmission and reception of BLE-based wireless signals based on the Bluetooth device address stored in the ROM 103. An example of a device address is a Bluetooth device address. Hereinafter, as an example of a device address, the application of a Bluetooth device address will continue to be explained.

[0038] The wireless module 102 is composed, for example, of a radio frequency (RF) circuit or a baseband (BB) circuit and a memory circuit. The wireless module 102 demodulates and decodes the wireless signals received via the antenna AN1 and outputs them to the control unit 104. Furthermore, the wireless module 102 encodes and modulates the signals output by the control unit 104 and transmits them externally via the antenna AN1.

[0039] The storage unit 110 is a non-volatile memory or the like, which stores control programs or setting data. The control program includes programs related to various processes for controlling wireless communication with the terminal device 200.

[0040] The control unit 104 performs various calculations to provide overall control over the operation of the wireless clock 100. For example, the control unit 104 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), which reads the control program from the storage unit 110 and performs various processing operations such as calculations, control, and display related to various functions. In addition, the control unit 104 controls the wireless module 102 to communicate with the terminal device 200.

[0041] The operation unit 106 accepts input operations from user U and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the input operation to the control unit 104. For example, if a registration button RBU is connected to the operation unit 106, and user U presses the registration button RBU, the operation unit 106 will output a registration signal to the control unit 104.

[0042] The display unit 107 may include a display panel such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL (electro-luminescent) display. The control unit 104 outputs drive signals to the display unit 107, where various information is displayed. The display unit 107 may display, for example, the time (current time) counted by the timing unit 108.

[0043] The timing unit 108 consists of an oscillation circuit, a frequency divider circuit, a timing circuit, etc., and keeps track of the current time. When the timing unit 108 receives the timing information from the control unit 104, it sets the timing information.

[0044] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a wireless clock according to this embodiment. Figure 3A This is the front view of the Wireless Clock 100. Figure 3B This is a rear view of the wireless clock 100. An example of the wireless clock 100 is used by hanging it on a wall in an office or placing it on a desk. According to the front view of the wireless clock 100, the time is displayed digitally on the front. According to the rear view of the wireless clock 100, the back of the wireless clock 100 includes a power switch SW, a time change button TCBU, a setting button SBU, a display selection button DSBU, a monitoring button MBU, a registration button RBU, and a reset button REBU.

[0045] The switch SW is used to turn the alarm clock of the wireless clock 100 on and off. The time change button TCBU is used to set the alarm time, current time, and date. The setting button SBU is used to set the time and date. The display selection button DSBU is used to select the display of the alarm time, current time, etc. The monitoring button MBU is used to make the alarm clock ring continuously. The registration button RBU is used to register the wireless clock 100 to the terminal device 200. The reset button REBU is used to reset.

[0046] Next, the terminal device 200 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0047] Figure 4This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the terminal device 200 according to this embodiment. The terminal device 200 includes a wireless module 202, a control unit 204, an operation unit 206, a touch panel 207-1, a display unit 207-2, a timing unit 208, and a storage unit 210.

[0048] The wireless module 202 transmits and receives BLE-based wireless signals via antenna AN2. The wireless module 202 includes a ROM 203. The wireless module 202 performs various processes related to the transmission and reception of BLE-based wireless signals based on the Bluetooth device address stored in the ROM 203. The wireless module 202 performs these processes according to instructions from the control unit 204.

[0049] The wireless module 202 is composed, for example, of a radio frequency (RF) circuit or a baseband (BB) circuit and a memory circuit. The wireless module 202 demodulates and decodes the wireless signals received via the antenna AN2 and outputs them to the control unit 204. Furthermore, the wireless module 202 encodes and modulates the signals output by the control unit 204 and transmits them externally via the antenna AN2.

[0050] Storage unit 210 is a non-volatile memory or the like, storing control programs. The control programs include programs related to various processes for controlling wireless communication with the wireless clock 100.

[0051] The control unit 204 performs various calculations and provides overall control over the operation of the terminal device 200. The control unit 204 includes a CPU, which reads the control program from the storage unit 210 and performs various processing operations such as calculations, control, and display related to various functions. Additionally, the control unit 204 controls the wireless module 202 to conduct data communication with the wireless clock 100.

[0052] The operation unit 206 accepts user input operations and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the input operation to the control unit 204. For example, the operation unit 206 outputs an operation signal to the control unit 204.

[0053] A touch panel 207-1 is formed on the surface of the display unit 207-2, detects touch operations on the screen displayed on the display unit 207-2, and outputs an operation signal to the control unit 204 based on the detection result of the touch operation.

[0054] The display unit 207-2 may include a display panel such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The control unit 204 outputs drive signals to the display unit 207-2, displaying various information on the display panel. The display unit 207-2 may display, for example, the (current) time counted by the timing unit 208. Furthermore, the display unit 207-2 may display, for example, a broadcast list, a synchronization button, or the product number of the wireless clock 100.

[0055] The timing unit 208 consists of an oscillation circuit, a frequency divider circuit, a timing circuit, etc., and keeps track of the current time.

[0056] Next, the functional configuration of the control unit 104 of the wireless clock according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 5 This diagram illustrates an example of the functional configuration of the control unit of the wireless clock according to this embodiment. The control unit 104 functions as a communication control unit 1041, a setting unit 1042, and a generation unit 1043.

[0057] The communication control unit 1041 controls the wireless module 102 to establish a connection with the terminal device 200 based on BLE. For example, when the wireless clock 100 is operating as a peripheral device, the communication control unit 1041 controls the wireless module 102 to control the transmission of a first signal and a second signal to the terminal device 200. The first signal is a communication packet for requesting connection and registration of wireless clock identification information. An example of the first signal is a broadcast identifier (ADV_IND) for requesting registration of wireless clock identification information. The second signal is a communication packet for not requesting registration of wireless clock identification information. An example of the second signal is a broadcast identifier (ADV_IND) for not requesting registration of wireless clock identification information. An example of the wireless clock identification information is a Bluetooth device address.

[0058] The setting unit 1042 sets a first transmission interval (TAdvInt1) for the first signal and a second transmission interval (TAdvInt2) for the second signal. For example, when the user U presses the registration button RBU, the setting unit 1042 sets the first transmission interval of the first signal, which is transmitted based on the registration signal output from the operation unit 106 to the control unit 104, and the second transmission interval of the second signal, which is not based on the operation of the registration button RBU. For example, the setting unit 1042 sets the first transmission interval to be shorter than the second transmission interval. An example of the first transmission interval is more than 200 milliseconds but less than 1 second, and an example of the second transmission interval is more than 1 second but less than 2 seconds.

[0059] The generation unit 1043 generates the first signal and the second signal. Figure 6A and Figure 6BThis is a diagram illustrating an example of signal 1 and signal 2. As an example, the case of applying broadcast packets to signal 1 and signal 2 will continue to be explained. Figure 6A As shown, a broadcast packet includes a preamble, an access address, a protocol data unit header (PDU header), an advertise address, broadcast structure 1 (AD Structure 1), broadcast structure 2 (ADS Structure 2), and a cyclic redundancy check (CRC).

[0060] The broadcast protocol data unit includes the PDU Header, Advertise Address, AD Structure1, and AD Structure2. The broadcast payload includes AdvertiseAddress, AD Structure1, and AD Structure2.

[0061] Broadcast structure 1 includes length, broadcast type, and broadcast data. Broadcast structure 2 also includes length, broadcast type, and broadcast data.

[0062] Figure 6B This displays the details of the broadcast packet. The Access Address is a fixed value in broadcast packets. The PDUHeader includes PDU TYPE, TxAdd, RxAdd, and Length. The value of the PDU TYPE field indicates the type of Advertising PDU. For example, an ADV_IND value of 0 in the PDUTYPE field indicates a broadcast event that can connect to a device that has not been specifically designated. An ADV_IND value of 0 in TxAdd indicates that the broadcast address is a common address inherent to the device, and an ADV_IND value of 1 in TxAdd indicates that the broadcast address is a random address.

[0063] In this embodiment, in order to identify each device by its Bluetooth device address, TxAdd is 0, that is, the Bluetooth device address inherent in each wireless module of the wireless module 103 of each wireless clock 100 is recorded as the broadcast address.

[0064] AD Structure2 includes Length, AD Type, and AD Data. AD Structure2 is the full local name for AD Type=9. The AD Data field consists of the article model "BL201" as an example of the device name, the identifier "BCLK1" indicating the article group included in the wireless clock system 1, and the device address registration request identification information "P" or "N" indicating whether device address registration is requested. Here, the case where the device address registration request identification information is "P" indicates that device address registration is requested. The case where the device address registration request identification information is "N" indicates that device address registration is not requested.

[0065] The identifier "BCLK1" is used to specifically identify the communication partner in an environment where many broadcast packets are transmitted from an office or other locations. Alternatively, a 2-byte or 16-byte Universal Unique Identifier (UUID) can be used to identify the communication partner. Examples of using the UUID are described later. In this embodiment, the broadcast address (Bluetooth device address), ADStructure1, and ADStructure2 are the broadcast payload.

[0066] In the first signal, for example in the AD Data of AD Structure 2, the product model "BL201" is included, the information "BCLK1" showing the situation included in the wireless clock system 1 is included, and the device address registration request identification information "P" is included.

[0067] The second signal, for example in the AD Data of AD Structure 2, includes the product model "BL201", information "BCLK1" indicating the inclusion in the wireless clock system 1, and device address registration request identification information "N". Return to Figure 5 And we will continue with the explanation.

[0068] The generation unit 1043 generates the first signal based on the registration signal input from the operation unit 106 to the control unit 104 when the user U presses the registration button RBU. For example, the generation unit 1043 generates the first signal based on the registration signal at a predetermined time or before the registration signal is input again.

[0069] The communication control unit 1041 obtains the first signal from the generation unit 1043. Based on the first transmission interval set by the setting unit 1042, the communication control unit 1041 controls the wireless module 102 to transmit the obtained first signal to the terminal device 200.

[0070] The communication control unit 1041 obtains the scan request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The generation unit 1043 obtains the scan request from the communication control unit 1041 and generates a scan response based on the obtained scan request. The communication control unit 1041 obtains the scan response from the generation unit 1043 and controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained scan response to the terminal device 200. An example of a scan response is a broadcast scan response (ADV_SCAN_REP).

[0071] The communication control unit 1041 obtains the connection request sent by the terminal device 200 in response to the scan response from the wireless module 102. The communication control unit 1041 performs connection processing based on the obtained connection request.

[0072] The communication control unit 1041 obtains the time synchronization request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The control unit 104 outputs the time information included in the time synchronization request to the timing unit 208. The timing unit 108 obtains the time information output by the control unit 104 and sets the time based on the obtained time information.

[0073] When time synchronization ends by setting the time based on time information by the timing unit 108, the generation unit 1043 generates a cutoff notification. The communication control unit 1041 obtains the cutoff notification generated by the generation unit 1043. The communication control unit 1041 controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained cutoff notification to the terminal device 200. An example of a cutoff notification is a link layer termination indicator (LL_Terminate_Ind).

[0074] The generation unit 1043 generates a second signal. The communication control unit 1041 obtains the second signal from the generation unit 1043. Based on the second transmission interval set by the setting unit 1042, the communication control unit 1041 controls the wireless module 102 to transmit the obtained second signal to the terminal device 200.

[0075] The communication control unit 1041 obtains the scan request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The generation unit 1043 obtains the scan request from the communication control unit 1041 and generates a scan response based on the obtained scan request. The communication control unit 1041 obtains the scan response from the generation unit 1043 and controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained scan response to the terminal device 200.

[0076] Next, the functional configuration of the control unit of the terminal device according to this embodiment will be explained. Figure 7 This diagram illustrates an example of the functional configuration of the control unit of the terminal device according to this embodiment. The control unit 204 functions as a communication control unit 2041, a registration unit 2042, a time synchronization unit 2043, and a generation unit 2044.

[0077] The communication control unit 2041 controls the wireless module 202 to establish a connection with the wireless clock 100. For example, when the terminal device 200 is operating as a central device, the communication control unit 2041 controls the wireless module 202 to perform a scan for receiving a first signal from the wireless clock 100, which is operating as a peripheral device.

[0078] The communication control unit 2041 obtains the first signal transmitted by the wireless clock 100 from the wireless module 202. Based on the obtained first signal, the communication control unit 2041 controls the wireless module 202 to perform a scan for receiving the first signal by sending a scan request. The generation unit 2044 obtains the first signal from the communication control unit 2041 and generates a scan request based on the obtained first signal. The communication control unit 2041 obtains the scan request from the generation unit 2044. The communication control unit 2041 controls the wireless module 202 to send the obtained scan request to the wireless clock 100. An example of a scan request is a broadcast scan request (ADV_SCAN_REQ).

[0079] Registration unit 2042 obtains a first signal from wireless module 102 and registers the Bluetooth device addresses included in the obtained first signal to storage unit 210, thereby generating or updating a list of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the first signal. For example, registration unit 2042 obtains broadcast packets from wireless module 102 and generates or updates a list (broadcaster list) of Bluetooth device addresses of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the obtained broadcast packets.

[0080] The control unit 204 displays a list of broadcasters on the display unit 207-2 to prompt the user U. The user U refers to the list of broadcasters displayed on the display unit 207-2 and clicks (presses) the portion corresponding to the Bluetooth device address of the wireless clock 100 connected to the terminal device 200. When the user U clicks the portion corresponding to the Bluetooth device address of the wireless clock 100, the touch panel 207-1 detects the Bluetooth device address. The operation unit 206 obtains the Bluetooth device address from the touch panel 207-1 and outputs the obtained Bluetooth device address to the control unit 204.

[0081] The communication control unit 2041 obtains the Bluetooth device address from the operation unit 206. Based on the obtained Bluetooth device address, the communication control unit 2041 establishes a connection with the wireless clock 100 that matches the Bluetooth device address.

[0082] The generation unit 2044 obtains the Bluetooth device address from the communication control unit 2041 and generates a connection request based on the obtained Bluetooth device address. The communication control unit 2041 obtains the connection request from the generation unit 2044. The communication control unit 2041 controls the wireless module 202 to send the obtained connection request to the wireless clock 100. An example of a connection request is a broadcast connection request (ADV_CONNECT_REQ).

[0083] After establishing a connection, the time synchronization unit 2043 synchronizes the time of the wireless clock 100 based on the Bluetooth device address registered by the registration unit 2042. Through a predetermined operation performed by the user U, the time synchronization unit 2043 obtains the Bluetooth device address output by the operation unit 206 to the control unit 204. Based on the obtained Bluetooth device address, the time synchronization unit 2043 synchronizes the time with the wireless clock 100 that matches that Bluetooth device address. The time synchronization unit 2043 obtains time information from the timing unit 208 and generates a time synchronization request including the obtained time information.

[0084] The communication control unit 2041 receives a time synchronization request from the time synchronization unit 2043 and controls the wireless module 102 to send it to the wireless clock 100 selected by the user U. An example of a time synchronization request is an attribute write command (ATT_WRITE_COMMAND). If time synchronization is successful, the communication control unit 2041 records the Bluetooth device address stored in the ROM 103 of the wireless module 102 of the wireless clock 100 in the storage unit 110. As a result, the broadcast list is updated.

[0085] The communication control unit 2041 obtains the disconnection notification sent by the wireless clock 100 from the wireless module 202. Based on the obtained disconnection notification, the communication control unit 2041 performs disconnection processing with the wireless clock 100.

[0086] The communication control unit 2041 obtains the second signal transmitted by the wireless clock 100 from the wireless module 202. Based on the obtained second signal, the communication control unit 2041 controls the wireless module 202 to perform a scan for receiving the second signal by sending a scan request. The generation unit 2044 obtains the second signal from the communication control unit 2041 and generates a scan request based on the obtained second signal. The communication control unit 2041 obtains the scan request from the generation unit 2044. The communication control unit 2041 controls the wireless module 202 to send the obtained scan request to the wireless clock 100.

[0087] Next, the operation of the wireless clock system according to this embodiment will be explained. Figure 8This diagram illustrates an example of the operation of the wireless clock system according to this embodiment. As an example, the case of one wireless clock 100 is described, but it is also applicable to cases with two or more clocks.

[0088] (Step S1-1) In the wireless clock 100, when the user U presses the registration button RBU, the setting unit 1042 receives the registration signal output from the operation unit 106 to the control unit 104. The setting unit 1042 sets the first transmission interval (TAdvInt1) of the first signal (ADV_IND requesting registration of Bluetooth device address) and the second transmission interval (TAdvInt2) of the second signal (ADV_IND not requesting registration of Bluetooth device address).

[0089] (Step S2-1) In the wireless clock 100, the generation unit 1043 generates a first signal. For example, the generation unit 1043 generates a first signal that includes the device name "BL201" in the local name and the identifier "BCLK1" for the product group included in the wireless clock system 1. The communication control unit 1041 obtains the first signal from the generation unit 1043 and controls the wireless module 102 to transmit the obtained first signal to the terminal device 200.

[0090] In the terminal device 200, the registration unit 2042 obtains the first signal from the wireless module 102 and registers the Bluetooth device address included in the obtained first signal to the storage unit 210, thereby updating the list of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the first signal.

[0091] (Step S3-1) In the wireless clock 100, the communication control unit 1041 controls the wireless module 102 to send a first signal to the terminal device 200 based on the first transmission interval set by the setting unit 1042.

[0092] In the terminal device 200, the registration unit 2042 receives a notification from the wireless module 102 that the first signal has been received, registers the Bluetooth device address included in the received first signal to the storage unit 210, thereby updating the list of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the first signal.

[0093] (Step S4-1) In the terminal device 200, the generation unit 2044 generates a scan request. The communication control unit 2041 obtains the scan request from the generation unit 2044 and controls the wireless module 202 to send the obtained scan request to the wireless clock 100.

[0094] (Step S5-1) In the wireless clock 100, the communication control unit 1041 obtains a scan request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The generation unit 1043 obtains the scan request from the communication control unit 1041 and generates a scan response based on the obtained scan request, which includes the device name "BL201" in the local name, the identifier "BCLK1" indicating the product group included in the wireless clock system 1, and the device address registration request identification information "P". The communication control unit 1041 obtains the scan response from the generation unit 1043 and controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained scan response to the terminal device 200.

[0095] (Step S6-1) In the wireless clock 100, the generation unit 1043 generates a first signal. For example, the generation unit 1043 generates a first signal that includes the device name "BL201" in its local name and the identifier "BCLK1" indicating the product group included in the wireless clock system 1. The communication control unit 1041 obtains the first signal from the generation unit 1043 and controls the wireless module 102 to transmit the obtained first signal to the terminal device 200.

[0096] In the terminal device 200, the registration unit 2042 obtains the first signal from the wireless module 102 and registers the Bluetooth device address included in the obtained first signal to the storage unit 210, thereby updating the list of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the first signal.

[0097] (Step S7-1) In terminal device 200, control unit 204 displays a list of broadcasters on display unit 207-2 to prompt user U. User U refers to the list of broadcasters displayed on display unit 207-2 and clicks (presses) the portion of the wireless clock 100 connected to terminal device 200 that matches the Bluetooth device address. Touch panel 207-1 detects the Bluetooth device address. Operation unit 206 obtains the Bluetooth device address from touch panel 207-1 and outputs the obtained Bluetooth device address to control unit 204.

[0098] (Step S8-1) In terminal device 200, generation unit 2044 obtains the Bluetooth device address from communication control unit 2041 and generates a connection request based on the obtained Bluetooth device address. Communication control unit 2041 obtains the connection request from generation unit 2044. Communication control unit 2041 controls wireless module 202 to send the obtained connection request to wireless clock 100. A connection is established between wireless clock 100 and terminal device 200.

[0099] After connection, the wireless clock 100 and the terminal device 200 use link layer function requests (LL_Feature_Req) ​​or link layer function responses (LL_Feature_Rsp) to confirm each other's functions or use link layer version identifiers (LL_Version_Ind) to exchange controller version information.

[0100] (Step S9-1) In terminal device 200, time synchronization unit 2043 obtains the Bluetooth device address output by operation unit 206 to control unit 204. Under the incremental timing (TDelay) of the second digit of timing unit 208 in terminal device 200, time synchronization unit 2043 obtains time information from timing unit 208 and generates a time synchronization request including the obtained time information. Communication control unit 2041 obtains the time synchronization request from time synchronization unit 2043 and controls wireless module 102 to send it to wireless clock 100 selected by user U.

[0101] (Step S10-1) In the wireless clock 100, the communication control unit 1041 obtains a time synchronization request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The control unit 104 outputs the time information included in the time synchronization request to the timing unit 208. The timing unit 108 obtains the time information output by the control unit 104 and sets the time based on the obtained time information. The generation unit 1043 generates a cutoff notification. The communication control unit 1041 obtains the cutoff notification generated by the generation unit 1043. The communication control unit 1041 controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained cutoff notification to the terminal device 200.

[0102] (Step S11-1) In the wireless clock 100, the generation unit 1043 generates a second signal. For example, the generation unit 1043 generates a second signal that includes the device name "BL201" in its local name and the identifier "BCLK1" indicating the product group included in the wireless clock system 1. The communication control unit 1041 obtains the second signal from the generation unit 1043 and controls the wireless module 102 to transmit the obtained second signal to the terminal device 200.

[0103] (Step S12-1) In the wireless clock 100, the communication control unit 1041 controls the wireless module 102 to send a second signal to the terminal device 200 based on the second transmission interval set by the setting unit 1042.

[0104] (Step S13-1) In terminal device 200, communication control unit 2041 obtains a second signal transmitted by wireless clock 100 from wireless module 202. Generation unit 2044 obtains the second signal from communication control unit 2041 and generates a scan request based on the obtained second signal. Communication control unit 2041 obtains the scan request from generation unit 2044. Communication control unit 2041 controls wireless module 202 to send the obtained scan request to wireless clock 100.

[0105] (Step S14-1) In the wireless clock 100, the communication control unit 1041 obtains a scan request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The generation unit 1043 obtains the scan request from the communication control unit 1041 and generates a scan response based on the obtained scan request. This scan response includes the device name "BL201" in the local name, the identifier "BCLK1" indicating the product group included in the wireless clock system 1, and the device address registration request identification information "N". The communication control unit 1041 obtains the scan response from the generation unit 1043 and controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained scan response to the terminal device 200.

[0106] (Modifications of the implementation method) (Wireless clock system) Examples of the configuration of the wireless clock system in the modified implementation method are applicable Figure 1 Therefore, the description is omitted. In the wireless clock system 1 of the modified embodiment, the wireless clock 100 generates a first signal including a universally unique identifier. The universally unique identifier is a 2-byte service universally unique identifier (UUID) obtained by requesting from the Bluetooth SIG (hereinafter also referred to as "service UUID"). By using the service UUID, objects can be uniquely identified in software.

[0107] The configuration of the wireless clock 100 and the configuration of the terminal device 200 are respectively applicable Figure 2 and Figure 4 Therefore, the explanation is omitted.

[0108] Next, the functional configuration of the control unit of the wireless clock according to the modified embodiment will be explained. Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the control unit of a wireless clock according to a variation of the embodiment.

[0109] The control unit 104 functions as the communication control unit 1046, the setting unit 1047, and the generation unit 1048.

[0110] The communication control unit 1046 controls the wireless module 102 to establish a BLE-based connection with the terminal device 200. For example, when the wireless clock 100 is operating as a peripheral device, the communication control unit 1046 controls the wireless module 102 to control the transmission of a first signal and a second signal to the terminal device 200. The first signal is a communication packet for requesting connection and registration of a Bluetooth device address. An example of the first signal is a broadcast identifier (ADV_IND) for requesting registration of a Bluetooth device address. The second signal is a communication packet that does not request registration of a Bluetooth device address. An example of the second signal is a broadcast identifier (ADV_IND) that does not request registration of a Bluetooth device address.

[0111] The setting unit 1047 sets a first transmission interval (TAdvInt1) for the first signal and a second transmission interval (TAdvInt2) for the second signal. For example, when the user U presses the registration button RBU, the setting unit 1047 sets a first transmission interval for the first signal transmitted based on the registration signal output from the operation unit 106 to the control unit 104, and a second transmission interval for the second signal not based on the operation of the registration button RBU. For example, the setting unit 1047 sets the first transmission interval to be shorter than the second transmission interval. An example of the first transmission interval is more than 200 milliseconds but less than 1 second, and an example of the second transmission interval is more than 1 second but less than 2 seconds.

[0112] The generation unit 1048 generates a first signal including the service UUID. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the first signal from the generation unit 1048. The communication control unit 1046 controls the wireless module 102 to transmit the obtained first signal to the terminal device 200 based on a first transmission interval set by the setting unit 1047.

[0113] The communication control unit 1046 obtains the scan request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The generation unit 1048 obtains the scan request from the communication control unit 1046 and generates a scan response based on the obtained scan request. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the scan response from the generation unit 1048 and controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained scan response to the terminal device 200. An example of a scan response is a broadcast scan response (ADV_SCAN_REP).

[0114] The communication control unit 1046 obtains the connection request sent by the terminal device 200 in response to the scan response from the wireless module 102. The communication control unit 1046 performs connection processing based on the obtained connection request.

[0115] The communication control unit 1046 obtains the time synchronization request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The control unit 104 outputs the time information included in the time synchronization request to the timing unit 208. The timing unit 108 obtains the time information output by the control unit 104 and sets the time based on the obtained time information.

[0116] When time synchronization ends by setting the time based on time information by the timing unit 108, the generation unit 1048 generates a cutoff notification. The communication control unit 1046 acquires the cutoff notification generated by the generation unit 1048. The communication control unit 1046 controls the wireless module 102 to send the acquired cutoff notification to the terminal device 200. An example of a cutoff notification is a link layer termination indicator (LL_Terminate_Ind).

[0117] The generation unit 1048 generates a second signal. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the second signal from the generation unit 1048. Based on the second transmission interval set by the setting unit 1047, the communication control unit 1046 controls the wireless module 102 to transmit the obtained second signal to the terminal device 200.

[0118] The communication control unit 1046 obtains the scan request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The generation unit 1048 obtains the scan request from the communication control unit 1046 and generates a scan response based on the obtained scan request. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the scan response from the generation unit 1048 and controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained scan response to the terminal device 200.

[0119] Next, the functional configuration of the control unit of the terminal device involved in the modified embodiment will be explained. Figure 10 This diagram illustrates an example of the functional configuration of the control unit of a terminal device according to a variation of the embodiment. The control unit 204 functions as a communication control unit 2046, a registration unit 2047, a time synchronization unit 2048, and a generation unit 2049.

[0120] The communication control unit 2046 controls the wireless module 202 to establish a connection with the wireless clock 100. For example, when the terminal device 200 is operating as a central device, the communication control unit 2046 controls the wireless module 202 to perform a scan for receiving a first signal from the wireless clock 100, which is operating as a peripheral device.

[0121] The communication control unit 2046 obtains the first signal transmitted by the wireless clock 100 from the wireless module 202. Based on the obtained first signal, the communication control unit 2046 controls the wireless module 202 to perform a scan for receiving the first signal by sending a scan request. The generation unit 2049 obtains the first signal from the communication control unit 2046 and generates a scan request based on the obtained first signal. The communication control unit 2046 obtains the scan request from the generation unit 2049. The communication control unit 2046 controls the wireless module 202 to send the obtained scan request to the wireless clock 100. An example of a scan request is a broadcast scan request (ADV_SCAN_REQ).

[0122] Registration unit 2047 obtains a first signal from wireless module 102 and registers the Bluetooth device addresses included in the obtained first signal to storage unit 210, thereby generating or updating a list of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the first signal. For example, registration unit 2047 obtains broadcast packets from wireless module 102 and generates or updates a list (broadcaster list) of Bluetooth device addresses of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the obtained broadcast packets.

[0123] The control unit 204 displays a list of broadcasters on the display unit 207-2 to prompt the user U. The user U refers to the list of broadcasters displayed on the display unit 207-2 and clicks (presses) the portion corresponding to the Bluetooth device address of the wireless clock 100 connected to the terminal device 200. When the user U clicks the portion corresponding to the Bluetooth device address of the wireless clock 100, the touch panel 207-1 detects the Bluetooth device address. The operation unit 206 obtains the Bluetooth device address from the touch panel 207-1 and outputs the obtained Bluetooth device address to the control unit 204.

[0124] The communication control unit 2046 obtains the Bluetooth device address from the operation unit 206. Based on the obtained Bluetooth device address, the communication control unit 2046 establishes a connection with the wireless clock 100 that matches the Bluetooth device address.

[0125] The generation unit 2049 obtains the Bluetooth device address from the communication control unit 2046 and generates a connection request based on the obtained Bluetooth device address. The communication control unit 2046 obtains the connection request from the generation unit 2049. The communication control unit 2046 controls the wireless module 202 to send the obtained connection request to the wireless clock 100. An example of a connection request is a broadcast connection request (ADV_CONNECT_REQ).

[0126] After establishing a connection, the time synchronization unit 2048 synchronizes the time of the wireless clock 100 based on the Bluetooth device address registered by the registration unit 2047. Through a predetermined operation performed by the user U, the time synchronization unit 2048 obtains the Bluetooth device address output by the operation unit 206 to the control unit 204. Based on the obtained Bluetooth device address, the time synchronization unit 2048 synchronizes the time with the wireless clock 100 that matches that Bluetooth device address. The time synchronization unit 2048 obtains time information from the timing unit 208 and generates a time synchronization request including the obtained time information.

[0127] The communication control unit 2046 receives a time synchronization request from the time synchronization unit 2048 and controls the wireless module 102 to send it to the wireless clock 100 selected by the user U. An example of a time synchronization request is an attribute write command (ATT_WRITE_COMMAND). If time synchronization is successful, the communication control unit 2046 records the Bluetooth device address stored in the ROM 103 of the wireless module 102 of the wireless clock 100 in the storage unit 110. As a result, the broadcast list is updated.

[0128] The communication control unit 2046 obtains the disconnection notification sent by the wireless clock 100 from the wireless module 202. Based on the obtained disconnection notification, the communication control unit 2046 performs disconnection processing with the wireless clock 100.

[0129] The communication control unit 2046 obtains the second signal transmitted by the wireless clock 100 from the wireless module 202. Based on the obtained second signal, the communication control unit 2046 controls the wireless module 202 to perform a scan for receiving the second signal by sending a scan request. The generation unit 2049 obtains the second signal from the communication control unit 2046 and generates a scan request based on the obtained second signal. The communication control unit 2046 obtains the scan request from the generation unit 2049. The communication control unit 2046 controls the wireless module 202 to send the obtained scan request to the wireless clock 100.

[0130] Next, the operation of the wireless clock system according to the modified embodiment will be explained. Figure 11 This diagram illustrates an example of the operation of a wireless clock system according to a variation of the embodiment. As an example, the case of two wireless clocks 100 is described, but it is also applicable to cases with one or more clocks.

[0131] (Steps S1-2) In the wireless clock 100-1, when the user U presses the registration button RBU, the setting unit 1047 receives the registration signal output from the operation unit 106 to the control unit 104. The setting unit 1047 sets the first transmission interval (TAdvInt1) of the first signal (ADV_IND requesting registration of Bluetooth device address) and the second transmission interval (TAdvInt2) of the second signal (ADV_IND not requesting registration of Bluetooth device address).

[0132] (Step S2-2) In the wireless clock 100-1, the generation unit 1048 generates a first signal. For example, the generation unit 1048 generates a first signal that includes "0x0123" in the service UUID. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the first signal from the generation unit 1048 and controls the wireless module 102 to transmit the obtained first signal to the terminal device 200.

[0133] In the terminal device 200, the registration unit 2047 obtains the first signal from the wireless module 102 and registers the Bluetooth device address included in the obtained first signal to the storage unit 210, thereby updating the list of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the first signal.

[0134] (Step S3-2) In the wireless clock 100-2, when the user U presses the registration button RBU, the setting unit 1047 receives the registration signal output from the operation unit 106 to the control unit 104. The setting unit 1047 sets the first transmission interval (TAdvInt1) of the first signal (ADV_IND requesting registration of Bluetooth device address) and the second transmission interval (TAdvInt2) of the second signal (ADV_IND not requesting registration of Bluetooth device address).

[0135] (Step S4-2) In the wireless clock 100-2, the generation unit 1048 generates a first signal. For example, the generation unit 1048 generates a first signal that includes "0x0123" in the service UUID. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the first signal from the generation unit 1048 and controls the wireless module 102 to transmit the obtained first signal to the terminal device 200.

[0136] In the terminal device 200, the registration unit 2047 obtains the first signal from the wireless module 102 and registers the Bluetooth device address included in the obtained first signal to the storage unit 210, thereby updating the list of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the first signal.

[0137] (Step S5-2) In the wireless clock 100-1, the communication control unit 1046 controls the wireless module 102 to send a first signal to the terminal device 200 based on the first transmission interval set by the setting unit 1047.

[0138] In the terminal device 200, the registration unit 2047 receives a notification from the wireless module 102 that the first signal has been received, registers the Bluetooth device address included in the received first signal to the storage unit 210, thereby updating the list of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the first signal.

[0139] (Step S6-2) In the wireless clock 100-2, the communication control unit 1046 controls the wireless module 102 to send a first signal to the terminal device 200 based on the first transmission interval set by the setting unit 1047.

[0140] In the terminal device 200, the registration unit 2047 obtains the first signal from the wireless module 102 and registers the Bluetooth device address included in the obtained first signal to the storage unit 210, thereby updating the list of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the first signal.

[0141] (Step S7-2) In the terminal device 200, the generation unit 2049 generates a scan request. The communication control unit 2046 obtains the scan request from the generation unit 2049 and controls the wireless module 202 to send the obtained scan request to the wireless clock 100.

[0142] (Step S8-2) In the terminal device 200, the generation unit 2049 generates a scan request. The communication control unit 2046 obtains the scan request from the generation unit 2049 and controls the wireless module 202 to send the obtained scan request to the wireless clock 100.

[0143] (Step S9-2) In the wireless clock 100-1, the communication control unit 1046 obtains a scan request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The generation unit 1048 obtains the scan request from the communication control unit 1046 and generates a scan response based on the obtained scan request, which includes the device name "BL201" and the device address registration request identifier information "P" in the local name. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the scan response from the generation unit 1048 and controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained scan response to the terminal device 200.

[0144] (Step S10-2) In the wireless clock 100-1, the communication control unit 1046 obtains a scan request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The generation unit 1048 obtains the scan request from the communication control unit 1046 and generates a scan response based on the obtained scan request, which includes the device name "BL201" and the device address registration request identifier information "P" in the local name. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the scan response from the generation unit 1048 and controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained scan response to the terminal device 200.

[0145] (Step S11-2) In the wireless clock 100-1, the generation unit 1048 generates a first signal. For example, the generation unit 1048 generates a first signal that includes "0x0123" in the service UUID. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the first signal from the generation unit 1048 and controls the wireless module 102 to transmit the obtained first signal to the terminal device 200.

[0146] In the terminal device 200, the registration unit 2047 obtains the first signal from the wireless module 102 and registers the Bluetooth device address included in the obtained first signal to the storage unit 210, thereby updating the list of wireless clocks 100 that are the sources of the first signal.

[0147] (Step S12-2) In terminal device 200, control unit 204 displays a list of broadcasters on display unit 207-2 to prompt user U. User U refers to the list of broadcasters displayed on display unit 207-2 and clicks (presses) the portion that matches the Bluetooth device address of wireless clock 100-1 and wireless clock 100-2 connected to terminal device 200. Touch panel 207-1 detects the Bluetooth device address. Operation unit 206 obtains the Bluetooth device address from touch panel 207-1 and outputs the obtained Bluetooth device address to control unit 204.

[0148] (Step S13-2) In terminal device 200, generation unit 2049 obtains the Bluetooth device address from communication control unit 2046 and generates a connection request based on the obtained Bluetooth device address. Communication control unit 2046 obtains the connection request from generation unit 2049. Communication control unit 2046 controls wireless module 202 to send the obtained connection request to wireless clock 100-1.

[0149] Establish a connection between the wireless clock 100-1 and the terminal device 200.

[0150] After connection, the wireless clock 100-1 and the terminal device 200 use link layer function requests (LL_Feature_Req) ​​or link layer function responses (LL_Feature_Rsp) to confirm each other's functions or use link layer version identifiers (LL_Version_Ind) to exchange controller version information.

[0151] (Step S14-2) In terminal device 200, generation unit 2049 obtains the Bluetooth device address from communication control unit 2046 and generates a connection request based on the obtained Bluetooth device address. Communication control unit 2046 obtains the connection request from generation unit 2049. Communication control unit 2046 controls wireless module 202 to send the obtained connection request to wireless clock 100-2.

[0152] Establish a connection between the wireless clock 100-2 and the terminal device 200.

[0153] After connection, the wireless clock 100-2 and the terminal device 200 use link layer function requests (LL_Feature_Req) ​​or link layer function responses (LL_Feature_Rsp) to confirm each other's functions or use link layer version identifiers (LL_Version_Ind) to exchange controller version information.

[0154] (Step S15-2) In terminal device 200, time synchronization unit 2048 obtains the Bluetooth device address output by operation unit 206 to control unit 204. Under the incremental timing (TDelay) of the second digit of timing unit 208 in terminal device 200, time synchronization unit 2048 obtains time information from timing unit 208 and generates a time synchronization request including the obtained time information. Communication control unit 2046 obtains the time synchronization request from time synchronization unit 2048 and controls wireless module 102 to send it to wireless clock 100-1 selected by user U.

[0155] (Step S16-2) In terminal device 200, time synchronization unit 2048 obtains the Bluetooth device address output by operation unit 206 to control unit 204. Under the incremental timing (TDelay) of the second digit of timing unit 208 in terminal device 200, time synchronization unit 2048 obtains time information from timing unit 208 and generates a time synchronization request including the obtained time information. Communication control unit 2046 obtains the time synchronization request from time synchronization unit 2048 and controls wireless module 102 to send it to wireless clock 100-2 selected by user U.

[0156] (Step S17-2) In the wireless clock 100-1, the communication control unit 1046 obtains a time synchronization request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The control unit 104 outputs the time information included in the time synchronization request to the timing unit 208. The timing unit 108 obtains the time information output by the control unit 104 and sets the time based on the obtained time information. The generation unit 1048 generates a cutoff notification. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the cutoff notification generated by the generation unit 1048. The communication control unit 1046 controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained cutoff notification to the terminal device 200.

[0157] (Step S18-2) In the wireless clock 100-2, the communication control unit 1046 obtains a time synchronization request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The control unit 104 outputs the time information included in the time synchronization request to the timing unit 208. The timing unit 108 obtains the time information output by the control unit 104 and sets the time based on the obtained time information. The generation unit 1048 generates a cut-off notification. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the cut-off notification generated by the generation unit 1048. The communication control unit 1046 controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained cut-off notification to the terminal device 200.

[0158] (Step S19-2) In the wireless clock 100-1, the generation unit 1048 generates a second signal. For example, the generation unit 1048 generates a first signal that includes "0x0123" in the service UUID. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the second signal from the generation unit 1048 and controls the wireless module 102 to transmit the obtained second signal to the terminal device 200.

[0159] (Step S20-2) In the wireless clock 100-2, the generation unit 1048 generates a second signal. For example, the generation unit 1048 generates a second signal that includes "0x0123" in the service UUID. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the second signal from the generation unit 1048 and controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained second signal to the terminal device 200.

[0160] (Step S21-2) In the wireless clock 100-1, the communication control unit 1046 controls the wireless module 102 to send a second signal to the terminal device 200 based on the second transmission interval set by the setting unit 1047.

[0161] (Step S22-2) In the wireless clock 100-2, the communication control unit 1046 controls the wireless module 102 to send a second signal to the terminal device 200 based on the second transmission interval set by the setting unit 1047.

[0162] (Step S23-2) In terminal device 200, communication control unit 2046 obtains a second signal transmitted by wireless clock 100-1 from wireless module 202. Generation unit 2049 obtains the second signal from communication control unit 2046 and generates a scan request based on the obtained second signal. Communication control unit 2046 obtains the scan request from generation unit 2049. Communication control unit 2046 controls wireless module 202 to send the obtained scan request to wireless clock 100-1.

[0163] (Step S24-2) In terminal device 200, communication control unit 2046 obtains a second signal transmitted by wireless clock 100-2 from wireless module 202. Generation unit 2049 obtains the second signal from communication control unit 2046 and generates a scan request based on the obtained second signal. Communication control unit 2046 obtains the scan request from generation unit 2049. Communication control unit 2046 controls wireless module 202 to send the obtained scan request to wireless clock 100-2.

[0164] (Step S25-2) In the wireless clock 100-1, the communication control unit 1046 obtains a scan request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The generation unit 1048 obtains the scan request from the communication control unit 1046 and generates a scan response based on the obtained scan request, which includes the device name "BL201K" and the device address registration request identifier information "N" in the local name. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the scan response from the generation unit 1048 and controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained scan response to the terminal device 200.

[0165] (Step S26-2) In the wireless clock 100-2, the communication control unit 1046 obtains a scan request sent by the terminal device 200 from the wireless module 102. The generation unit 1048 obtains the scan request from the communication control unit 1046 and generates a scan response based on the obtained scan request, which includes the device name "BL201K" and the device address registration request identifier information "N" in the local name. The communication control unit 1046 obtains the scan response from the generation unit 1048 and controls the wireless module 102 to send the obtained scan response to the terminal device 200.

[0166] According to the aforementioned embodiments and variations thereof, the wireless clock system includes a wireless clock and a terminal device. The wireless clock includes: a setting unit that sets a first transmission interval for a first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information and a second transmission interval for a second signal not requesting registration of wireless clock identification information; and a communication control unit that transmits the first signal at the first transmission interval set by the setting unit and transmits the second signal at the second transmission interval, wherein the first transmission interval is shorter than the second transmission interval. The terminal device includes a registration unit that registers wireless clock identification information based on the first signal transmitted by the wireless clock.

[0167] With this configuration, the wireless clock system can make the first transmission interval of the first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information shorter than the second transmission interval of the second signal not requesting registration of wireless clock identification information, thereby ensuring the battery life of the wireless clock and improving the connectivity of the first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information.

[0168] In the wireless clock system, the terminal device also has a time synchronization unit that synchronizes the time of the wireless clock based on the wireless clock identification information registered by the registration unit.

[0169] With this configuration, the terminal device can synchronize its time with wireless clocks that have registered wireless clock identification information.

[0170] In a wireless clock system, the communication control unit transmits a first signal at a first transmission interval based on the operation.

[0171] With this configuration, the wireless clock can transmit a first signal at a first transmission interval triggered by an operation.

[0172] The wireless clock system also includes a generation unit that generates a first signal including a universally unique identifier. The communication control unit transmits the first signal generated by the generation unit at a first transmission interval.

[0173] With this configuration, the wireless clock can generate a first signal including a universally unique identifier and transmit it at a first transmission interval. Therefore, with respect to the terminal device, it can be detected in a shorter time than with a first signal that does not include the universally unique identifier.

[0174] The wireless clock includes: a setting unit that sets a first transmission interval for a first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information and a second transmission interval for a second signal not requesting registration of wireless clock identification information; and a communication control unit that transmits the first signal at the first transmission interval set by the setting unit and transmits the second signal at the second transmission interval, wherein the first transmission interval is shorter than the second transmission interval.

[0175] With this configuration, the wireless clock can make the first transmission interval of the first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information shorter than the second transmission interval of the second signal not requesting registration of wireless clock identification information, thereby ensuring the battery life of the wireless clock and improving the connectivity of the first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information.

[0176] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but these embodiments are provided as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in a variety of other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the embodiments and variations thereof can be combined. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope or spirit of the invention, and at the same time, are included within the scope of the invention as described in the claims and its equivalents.

[0177] Furthermore, the aforementioned wireless clock 100 and terminal device 200 each have a computer internally. Moreover, the processing procedures of each of the aforementioned devices are stored in the form of programs on a computer-readable recording medium, which the computer reads and executes to perform the aforementioned processing.

[0178] Here, the recording media that a computer can read refers to disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, semiconductor memories, etc. Alternatively, the computer program can be delivered to the computer via a communication line, and the computer that receives the delivery can execute the program.

[0179] In addition, the above-described program can also be used to implement a portion of the aforementioned functions. Furthermore, it can also be a program capable of implementing the aforementioned functions in combination with a program already recorded on a computer device, i.e., a so-called differential file (differential program).

[0180] [Symbol Explanation] 1……Wireless clock system, 100 (100-1, 100-2, ..., 100-n)……Wireless clock, 102……Wireless module, 103……ROM, 104……Control unit, 106……Operation unit, 107……Display unit, 108……Timing unit, 110……Storage unit, 200……Terminal device, 202……Wireless module, 203……ROM, 204……Control unit, 206……Operation unit, 207-1……Touch panel, 207-2……Display unit, 208……Timing unit, 210……Storage unit.

Claims

1. A wireless clock system, comprising a wireless clock and a terminal device. The wireless clock features: The setting unit sets a first transmission interval for a first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information and a second transmission interval for a second signal not requesting registration of the wireless clock identification information; and The communication control unit transmits the first signal at the first transmission interval set by the setting unit and transmits the second signal at the second transmission interval. The first transmission interval is shorter than the second transmission interval. The terminal device includes: The registration unit registers the wireless clock identification information based on the first signal transmitted by the wireless clock.

2. The wireless clock system according to claim 1, wherein, The terminal device also includes: The time synchronization unit performs time synchronization of the wireless clock based on the wireless clock identification information registered by the registration unit.

3. The wireless clock system according to claim 1, wherein, The communication control unit transmits the first signal at the first transmission interval based on the operation.

4. The wireless clock system according to claim 1, It also has a generation unit that generates a first signal, including a universally unique identifier. The communication control unit transmits the first signal generated by the generation unit at the first transmission interval.

5. A wireless clock, comprising: The setting unit sets a first transmission interval for a first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information and a second transmission interval for a second signal not requesting registration of the wireless clock identification information; and The communication control unit transmits the first signal at the first transmission interval set by the setting unit and transmits the second signal at the second transmission interval. The first transmission interval is shorter than the second transmission interval.

6. A method performed by a wireless clock system, wherein the method performed by the wireless clock system having a wireless clock and a terminal device comprises: The steps of setting a first transmission interval for a first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information and a second transmission interval for a second signal not requesting registration of wireless clock identification information; The wireless clock transmits the first signal at the first transmission interval set in the set steps and transmits the second signal at the second transmission interval; and The step of the terminal device registering the wireless clock identification information based on the first signal sent by the wireless clock. The first transmission interval is shorter than the second transmission interval.

7. A method performed by a wireless clock, comprising: The steps of setting a first transmission interval for a first signal requesting registration of wireless clock identification information and a second transmission interval for a second signal not requesting registration of the wireless clock identification information; and The steps of transmitting the first signal at the first transmission interval set in the set steps and transmitting the second signal at the second transmission interval. The first transmission interval is shorter than the second transmission interval.

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