Communication device, control method of communication device, program product, and storage medium

Abstract

The present application relates to a communication device, a control method of a communication device, a program product, and a storage medium, and provides a technique for appropriately allocating throughput. A communication device capable of relaying data acquired via a network to one or more other communication devices, the data communication device comprising: an acquisition mechanism that acquires information of a maximum throughput of the communication device; a connection mechanism that connects with the one or more other communication devices; and a decision mechanism that decides a transmission throughput of transmitting data to each of the one or more other communication devices based on the number of connections of the one or more other communication devices and the information of the maximum throughput.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a communication device, a control method for the communication device, a program product, and a storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a technique for maximizing packet throughput in a network environment.

[0003] Existing technical documents Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-518970 Summary of the Invention The problem that the invention aims to solve However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 has the following problem: it is difficult to have the function of relaying data obtained from the network to other communication devices, while appropriately allocating the throughput in communication devices that also use data and utilize content, etc.

[0004] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a technology that has the function of relaying data obtained from the network to other communication devices, while appropriately allocating throughput.

[0005] means for solving problems One aspect of the communication device of the present invention that achieves the above-mentioned objective is a communication device capable of relaying data acquired via a network to one or more other communication devices, characterized in that... The communication device includes: An acquisition mechanism that acquires information about the maximum throughput of the communication device; A connection mechanism, which is connected to one or more other communication devices; and The decision-making body determines the transmission throughput for transmitting data to each of the other communication devices based on the number of connected devices and the maximum throughput information.

[0006] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention for controlling a communication device, which achieves the aforementioned objective, is a method for controlling a communication device capable of relaying data acquired via a network to one or more other communication devices, characterized in that... The control method of the communication device has the following characteristics: The acquisition step involves acquiring information about the maximum throughput of the communication device. A connection step, in which connection is made with one or more other communication devices; and The decision step involves determining the transmission throughput for transmitting data to each of the other communication devices based on the number of connected units of the one or more other communication devices and the information on the maximum throughput.

[0007] Invention Effects According to the present invention, throughput can be appropriately allocated. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a communication system according to one implementation method.

[0009] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates an example of the hardware configuration of a communication device in a vehicle according to one embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates an example of the hardware configuration of another communication device involved in one implementation.

[0011] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an example of the functional configuration of a communication device in a vehicle according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of processing performed on the communication device of the vehicle according to Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of processing performed on the communication device of the vehicle according to Embodiment 2.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of processing performed on the communication device of the vehicle according to Embodiment 3.

[0015] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram of the throughput involved in Implementation Method 1.

[0016] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram of the throughput involved in Implementation Method 3.

[0017] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram of the throughput involved in Implementation Method 4.

[0018] Figure 11 This is an explanatory diagram of the throughput involved in Implementation Method 2.

[0019] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram of the throughput involved in Implementation Method 2.

[0020] Figure 13This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of processing performed on the communication device of the vehicle according to Embodiment 4.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of processing performed on the communication device of the vehicle according to Embodiment 5.

[0022] Figure 15 This is an explanatory diagram of the throughput involved in Implementation Method 5.

[0023] Figure 16 This is an explanatory diagram of the throughput involved in Implementation Method 5.

[0024] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 20: Vehicles; 200: Communication device; 251: Control Department; 252: Acquisition Department; 253: Connecting part; 254: Decision-Making Department; 255: Measurement Department; 256: Changes Department; 257: Location Information Acquisition Department. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the following embodiments do not limit the invention to which the technical solution pertains, and not all of the feature combinations described in the embodiments are essential to the invention. Two or more of the multiple features described in the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined. Additionally, identical or identical components are labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0026] (Implementation Method 1) <System Composition> Figure 1 This diagram illustrates a configuration example of the communication system according to this embodiment. Figure 1 In this diagram, 10 is a server device (information processing device). 20 is a vehicle, such as a four-wheeled vehicle. However, it is not limited to a four-wheeled vehicle; it can also be a three-wheeled, two-wheeled, or other type of vehicle. 30 is a communication device (such as a smartphone, tablet computer, etc.), for example, a device held by the occupant of vehicle 20. 40 is a network. Server device 10, vehicle 20, and communication device are connected via network 40. Vehicle 20 has the function of receiving data sent from server device 10 using hotspot communication and then transmitting (relaying) the data to communication device 30. Similarly, communication device 30 can also have the function of receiving data sent from server device 10 using hotspot communication and transmitting (relaying) the data to vehicle 20.

[0027] <Hardware Configuration> Next, while referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The hardware configuration example of the vehicle 20 and the communication device 30 according to one embodiment will be described.

[0028] like Figure 2 As shown, vehicle 20 includes a communication device 200 mounted on the vehicle. The communication device 200 includes a CPU 201, a storage device 202, a communication unit 203, a display unit 204, an operation input unit 205, and a sensor 206. Other components of vehicle 20, such as steering and drive systems, are omitted. The communication device 200 may be, for example, an in-vehicle display device capable of acquiring navigation information and providing route guidance to the user until the destination is reached, or displaying traffic congestion information.

[0029] CPU 201 reads and executes computer programs stored in storage device 202 to control the communication device 200. There can be more than one CPU. Storage device 202 is one or more memories that store various types of information, such as information received from other devices or computer programs read and executed by CPU 201.

[0030] The communication unit 203 has the function of communicating with other devices via wired or wireless means through the network 40. The display unit 204 displays various images, pictures, messages, etc. to the user. The operation input unit 205 receives various operation instructions from the user. The sensor 206 includes a GPS / GNSS sensor, which is capable of acquiring the location information of the vehicle 20.

[0031] like Figure 3 As shown, the communication device 30 includes a CPU 301, a storage device 302, a communication unit 303, a display unit 304, an operation input unit 305, and a sensor 306. The communication device 30 may be, for example, a smartphone or tablet computer held by the occupant.

[0032] CPU 301 reads and executes the computer program stored in storage device 302 to control the communication device 30. CPU 301 can be one or more CPUs. Storage device 302 is one or more memories that store various types of information, such as information received from other devices and computer programs read and executed by CPU 301.

[0033] The communication unit 303 has the function of communicating with other devices via wired or wireless means through the network 40. The display unit 304 displays various images, pictures, messages, etc. to the user. The operation input unit 305 receives various operation instructions from the user. The sensor 306 includes a GPS / GNSS sensor, which is capable of acquiring the location information of the communication device 30.

[0034] <Functional Composition> Next, refer to Figure 4 An example of the functional configuration of a communication device 200 provided in a vehicle 20 according to one embodiment will be described. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the communication device 200 is, for example, a communication device capable of relaying data acquired via network 40 to one or more other communication devices 30 using cellular communication. The communication device 200 operates as an access point, and the one or more other communication devices 30 operate as stations. The communication device 200 includes a control unit 251, an acquisition unit 252, a connection unit 253, a decision unit 254, a measurement unit 255, a change unit 256, and a location information acquisition unit 257.

[0035] The control unit 251 controls the overall operation of the communication device 200. The acquisition unit 252 acquires information about the maximum throughput of the communication device 200. The maximum throughput information is a predetermined value and is pre-stored in the storage device 202 of the communication device 200. The connection unit 253 connects to one or more other communication devices 30 using a hotspot communication function. For example, the hotspot communication here can utilize Wi-Fi hotspot communication, Bluetooth hotspot communication, or USB hotspot communication.

[0036] The decision unit 254 determines the transmission throughput (transmission speed, transmission rate) for transmitting data to each of the communication devices 200 based on the number of connected devices 30 and the maximum throughput information. The measurement unit 255 measures the current throughput for data communication (reception) from the network 40 within the communication device 200. The modification unit 256 modifies the current throughput or transmission throughput based on the difference between the current throughput measured by the measurement unit 255 and the throughput determined by the decision unit 255. The location information acquisition unit 257 acquires the location information of each of the communication devices 30.

[0037] <Processing> Next, refer to Figure 5 The flowchart below describes the steps of processing performed by the communication device 200 equipped in the vehicle 20 according to this embodiment. In S501, the control unit 251 determines whether the communication device 200 has been connected to one or more other communication devices 30 via the connection unit 253. If this step is "yes", proceed to S502. On the other hand, if this step is "no", wait.

[0038] In S502, the acquisition unit 252 acquires information about the maximum throughput of the communication device 200. The maximum throughput of the communication device 200 corresponds to the performance of the communication device 200; for example, information stored in the storage device 202 of the communication device 200 can be read and acquired. In S503, the control unit 251 calculates and acquires the number of connected other communication devices 30 connected by the connection unit 253.

[0039] In S504, the decision unit 254 determines (allocates) the transmission throughput for transmitting data to each of the other communication devices 30 based on the number of connected units of the other communication devices 30 and the information on the maximum throughput. Furthermore, it may also determine (or allocate) the throughput used for data communication (reception) in the communication device 200.

[0040] For example, the decision unit 254 can determine the transmission throughput by dividing the maximum throughput by the number of connected communication devices 30 and the total number of communication devices 200. That is, the transmission throughput can be determined in a way that evenly distributes the transmission throughput among the other communication devices 30 (smartphones, tablet computers, etc.). Furthermore, the decision unit 254 can further determine the throughput used for data communication (reception) in the communication device 200 by dividing the maximum throughput by the number of connected communication devices 30 and the total number of communication devices 200. That is, the determination can be made in a way that evenly distributes the throughput across the communication device 200 and each of the communication devices 30.

[0041] Here, refer to Figure 8 Let's illustrate with a specific example. Assume the maximum throughput of communication device 200 is 100 Mbps, and the number of other communication devices 30 connected to communication device 200 is four. In this case, "maximum throughput 100 Mbps / (four other communication devices 30 + one communication device 200 itself, totaling five) = 20 Mbps / device" is determined as the throughput for each transmission to the other communication devices 30, and the throughput for data communication (reception) within communication device 200. That is, the throughput for data communication (reception) within communication device 200 becomes 20 Mbps, and the throughput for transmission to each communication device 30 also becomes 20 Mbps. Thus, the throughput can be distributed evenly (fairly) among the devices.

[0042] As explained above, in this embodiment, the transmission throughput for transmitting data to each of the other communication devices is determined based on the number of connected units of other communication devices that function as sites and the maximum throughput of communication devices that function as access points.

[0043] Therefore, it is possible to allocate appropriate throughput, including the terminal (communication device) and connected terminals (other communication devices).

[0044] [Variation Example] In Implementation 1, an example of evenly distributing throughput was described, but it is not limited to this example. For example, the throughput used for data communication (receiving) in communication device 200 may be prioritized and controlled in a way that it becomes a predetermined multiple (e.g., twice) of the throughput for transmission to other communication devices 30.

[0045] As mentioned earlier, the maximum throughput of communication device 200 is assumed to be 100 Mbps, and the number of other communication devices 30 connected to communication device 200 is four. In this case, when the transmission throughput is set to X Mbps, the throughput used for data communication (reception) in communication device 200 becomes 2X Mbps. From 2X + X + X + X + X = 100 Mbps, i.e., 6X = 100 Mbps, we can calculate X = 16.7 Mbps. Therefore, we can prioritize the allocation of throughput for data communication (reception) in communication device 200 as 33.4 Mbps, and the transmission throughput to other communication devices 30 as 16.7 Mbps.

[0046] (Implementation Method 2) In this embodiment, an example of changing throughput will be described. The system configuration and device configuration are the same as in Embodiment 1, so the description is omitted.

[0047] <Processing> Next, refer to Figure 6 The flowchart below describes the processing steps performed by the communication device 200 equipped in the vehicle 20 according to this embodiment. Each of the processes S501 to S504 is the same as that described in Embodiment 1. Figure 5 The explanation follows the same process, therefore the explanation is omitted.

[0048] In S601, the measurement unit 255 measures the current throughput of data communication (reception) in the communication device 200. This process is the process of measuring the throughput of the communication device 200 itself.

[0049] In S602, the control unit 251 determines whether the transmission throughput determined (calculated) in S504 is greater than the measured current throughput (measured value). If this step is "yes", it proceeds to S603. On the other hand, if this step is "no", it proceeds to S604. In S603, the modification unit 256 modifies the transmission throughput (determined value) to make it the same as the current throughput (measured value).

[0050] In S604, the control unit 251 determines whether the transmission throughput determined (calculated) in S504 is less than the measured current throughput (measured value). If this step is "yes", the process proceeds to S605. On the other hand, if this step is "no", the process ends without making any changes. In S605, the modification unit 256 makes changes by reducing the current throughput to be the same as the transmission throughput (determined value).

[0051] Here, refer to Figure 11 as well as Figure 12 Specific examples will be provided. Figure 11 The case is described where the throughput (determined value) equals the transmission throughput (determined value) of 20 Mbps, and the current throughput (measured value) of communication device 200 is 10 Mbps. In this case, the determined transmission throughput (20 Mbps) is greater than the measured current throughput (measured value) (10 Mbps), therefore, in S602, it becomes "Yes" and proceeds to S603. Then, in S603, the control is changed in such a way that the transmission throughput (determined value) of 20 Mbps is reduced to the same value as the current throughput (measured value) of 10 Mbps. That is, the control is set so that the transmission throughput to other communication devices 30 becomes 10 Mbps, the same value as the current throughput (10 Mbps) in the processing of communication device 200.

[0052] Figure 12 The case where the throughput (determined value) equals the transmission throughput (determined value) of 20 Mbps, and the current throughput (measured value) of communication device 200 is 30 Mbps, is described. In this case, the determined transmission throughput (20 Mbps) is less than the measured current throughput (measured value) (30 Mbps), therefore, it becomes "Yes" in S604 and proceeds to S605. Then, in S605, the current throughput (measured value) of 30 Mbps is reduced to the same level as the transmission throughput (determined value) of 20 Mbps. That is, the control directly sets the transmission throughput to 20 Mbps for other communication devices 30, and the current throughput in the processing of communication device 200 is also 20 Mbps.

[0053] As explained above, in this embodiment, the transmission throughput or throughput is changed based on a predetermined transmission throughput (= the predetermined throughput in the communication device 200) and a measurement of the current throughput in the processing within the communication device 200. For example, control is performed in a way that balances the throughput.

[0054] Therefore, it is possible to allocate the appropriate throughput, including the terminal (communication device) and the connected terminals (other communication devices).

[0055] (Implementation Method 3) In this embodiment, another example of determining the transmission throughput to other communication devices 30 will be described. The system and device configurations are the same as in Embodiment 1, and therefore the description is omitted.

[0056] <Processing> Next, refer to Figure 7 The flowchart below describes the processing steps performed by the communication device 200 equipped in the vehicle 20 according to this embodiment. Each of the processes S501 to S504 is the same as that described in Embodiment 1. Figure 5 The processing described is the same as that in Embodiment 2, and the processing of S601 is the same as that referred to in Embodiment 2. Figure 6 The explanation follows the same process, therefore the explanation is omitted.

[0057] In S701, the decision unit 254 determines the transmission throughput based on the current throughput, the maximum throughput, and the number of connected units. For example, the transmission throughput to each of the other communication devices 30 is determined by dividing the value of the maximum throughput minus the measured value by the number of connected units of the other communication devices 30.

[0058] Here, refer to Figure 9 Let's illustrate with a specific example. Assume the maximum throughput of communication device 200 is 100 Mbps, and the number of connected other communication devices 30 connected to communication device 200 is four. Furthermore, assume the current throughput (measured value) of processing within communication device 200 is 40 Mbps. In this case, "(maximum throughput 100 Mbps - current throughput (measured value) 40 Mbps / (number of connected other communication devices 30, four) = 15 Mbps / device" is determined as the transmission throughput to each of the other communication devices 30. The throughput within communication device 200 is determined as the measured value of 40 Mbps. That is, the throughput used for data communication (reception) within communication device 200 becomes 40 Mbps, and the transmission throughput to each communication device 30 becomes 15 Mbps. Thus, the throughput can be evenly (fairly) distributed among the connected other communication devices.

[0059] (Implementation Method 4) In this embodiment, another example of determining the transmission throughput to other communication devices 30 will be described. The system configuration and device configuration are the same as in Embodiment 1, so the description is omitted.

[0060] <Processing> Next, refer to Figure 13 The flowchart below describes the processing steps performed by the communication device 200 equipped in the vehicle 20 according to this embodiment. Each of the processes S501 to S504 is the same as that described in Embodiment 1. Figure 5The processing described is the same as that in Embodiment 2, and the processing of S601 is the same as that referred to in Embodiment 2. Figure 6 The explanation follows the same process, therefore the explanation is omitted.

[0061] In S1301, the location information acquisition unit 257 acquires the location information of other communication devices 30 from each communication device 30.

[0062] In S1302, the decision unit 254 determines the transmission throughput based on the current throughput, maximum throughput, number of connected units, and location information. For example, the decision unit 254 may make the decision by using the acquired location information to determine the transmission throughput differently depending on whether the other communication device 30 is located inside or outside the vehicle 20.

[0063] Here, refer to Figure 10 A specific example will be provided. Assume the maximum throughput of communication device 200 is 100 Mbps, and the number of other communication devices 30 connected to communication device 200 is four. Furthermore, assume the current throughput (measured value) of data communication (reception) within communication device 200 is 40 Mbps. Also, assume two of the four other communication devices 30 are located inside vehicle 20, and two are located outside vehicle 20.

[0064] In this case, the change can be made in such a way that the transmission throughput to other communication devices 30 located inside the vehicle becomes greater than the transmission throughput to other communication devices 30 located outside the vehicle. Furthermore, "located inside the vehicle" refers to a situation where the occupant holding the other communication device 30 is seated in the vehicle 20, while "located outside the vehicle" refers to a situation where the occupant holding the other communication device 30 is located around the vehicle 20 but outside the vehicle. For example, consider a situation where the vehicle is parked in a parking lot at a service area on a highway and some occupants are outside the vehicle.

[0065] At this point, the maximum throughput of 100Mbps - the current throughput (measured value) of 40Mbps = 60Mbps is allocated to the four connected communication devices 30. For example, consider allocating XMbps to the other communication devices 30 outside the vehicle and 2XMbps to the other communication devices 30 inside the vehicle. In this case, since X + X + 2X + 2X = 60Mbps, X = 10Mbps. Therefore, the allocation is changed to 10Mbps to the other communication devices 30 outside the vehicle and 20Mbps to the other communication devices 30 inside the vehicle. The throughput in communication device 200 is determined to be 40Mbps as the measured value. That is, the throughput used for data communication (reception) in communication device 200 is 40Mbps, the transmission throughput to the communication devices 30 inside the vehicle is 20Mbps, and the transmission throughput to the communication devices 30 outside the vehicle is 10Mbps. Thus, a higher throughput can be allocated to the users inside the vehicle among the connected other communication devices.

[0066] [Variation Example] Furthermore, in Embodiment 4, an example was described where the throughput allocation differed depending on whether the location of the other communication device 30 was inside or outside the vehicle, but this is not a limitation. The determination unit 254 can determine the transmission throughput in such a way that, based on the location information of the other communication device 30, the transmission throughput to the other communication device 30 located in the driver's seat or the front passenger seat of the vehicle 20 becomes greater than the transmission throughput to the other communication device 30 located in the rear seats.

[0067] Furthermore, for seat determination, photographic information can be used instead of location information. For example, an in-vehicle camera (not shown) equipped in vehicle 20 can be used to photograph the occupants in each seat, and the person can be identified from the captured image. Further, communication device 200 obtains device information (e.g., owner information) of each of the other communication devices 30 to determine which seat the user of the other communication device 30 is sitting in. Thus, it is possible to determine whether each of the other communication devices 30 is located in the driver's seat, front passenger seat, or rear seat.

[0068] (Implementation Method 5) In Embodiments 2 to 4, examples were described of measuring the throughput used for data communication (reception) in the communication device 200 and changing or determining the throughput using that measurement value. In this embodiment, an example is described of measuring the current overall transmission throughput of the communication device 200, which functions as an access point (AP), and changing the throughput using that measurement value. The system and device configurations are the same as in Embodiment 1, therefore, the description is omitted.

[0069] <Processing> Next, refer to Figure 14 The flowchart below describes the processing steps performed by the communication device 200 equipped in the vehicle 20 according to this embodiment. Each of the processes S501 to S504 is the same as that described in Embodiment 1. Figure 5 The explanation follows the same process, therefore the explanation is omitted.

[0070] In S1401, the measurement unit 255 measures the current overall transmission throughput of the communication device 200, which functions as an access point (AP). This is the overall transmission throughput of the other communication devices 30, excluding the throughput of processing performed by the communication device 200 itself.

[0071] In S1402, the control unit 251 calculates the current transmission throughput (measured value) of each of the other communication devices 30. For example, the current transmission throughput (measured value) of each device is calculated by dividing the total transmission throughput measured in S1401 by the number of connected other communication devices 30.

[0072] In step S1403, the control unit 251 determines whether the transmission throughput (determined value) is greater than the current transmission throughput (measured value). If this step is "yes", the process proceeds to step S1404. On the other hand, if this step is "no", the process proceeds to step S1405.

[0073] In S1404, the modification unit 256 modifies the data to reduce the transmission throughput (determined value) so that it is the same as the current transmission throughput (measured value). In S1405, the control unit 251 determines whether the transmission throughput (determined value) is less than the current transmission throughput (measured value). If this step is "yes", the process proceeds to S1406. On the other hand, if this step is "no", the process ends without modification. In S1406, the modification unit 256 modifies the data to reduce the current transmission throughput (measured value) so that it is the same as the transmission throughput (determined value).

[0074] Here, refer to Figure 15 as well as Figure 16 Specific examples will be provided. Figure 15 In this context, the maximum throughput of communication device 200 is set to 100 Mbps, and the number of other communication devices 30 connected to communication device 200 is four. Furthermore, the current transmission throughput (measured value) processed in communication device 200 is set to 90 Mbps.

[0075] In this case, in S1402, the current transmission throughput (measured value) of 90 Mbps processed in the communication device 200, divided by the number of connected units (four), which is 22.5 Mbps, is calculated as the current transmission throughput (measured value) for each unit. Next, the transmission throughput (determined value) = 20 Mbps < since the current transmission throughput (measured value) for each unit = 22.5 Mbps, therefore, it becomes "yes" in S1405. Then, in S1406, the change is made by reducing the current transmission throughput (measured value) = 22.5 Mbps to make it the transmission throughput (determined value) = 20 Mbps.

[0076] exist Figure 16 In this context, the maximum throughput of communication device 200 is set to 100 Mbps, and the number of other communication devices 30 connected to communication device 200 is four. Furthermore, the current transmission throughput (measured value) processed in communication device 200 is set to 60 Mbps.

[0077] In this case, in S1402, the current transmission throughput (measured value) of 60 Mbps processed in the communication device 200, divided by the number of connected units (four), which is 15 Mbps, is calculated as the current transmission throughput (measured value) for each unit. Next, since the transmission throughput (determined value) = 20 Mbps > the current transmission throughput (measured value) for each unit = 15 Mbps, it becomes "yes" in S1403. Then, in S1404, it is changed in the same way as the current transmission throughput (measured value) = 15 Mbps by reducing the transmission throughput (determined value) = 20 Mbps.

[0078] As explained above, in this embodiment, the current overall transmission throughput of the communication device functioning as an access point (AP) is measured, and the throughput is changed using this measurement. This allows for a more balanced (fair) distribution of throughput to the other connected communication devices.

[0079] [Variation Example] In each of the above embodiments, in S601, the measurement unit 255 measures the current throughput of data communication (reception) in the communication device 200, or in S1401, measures the current overall transmission throughput of the communication device 200 that functions as an access point (AP).

[0080] In response, the measurement unit 255 can measure the current throughput or the current overall transmission throughput of data communication (reception) in the communication device 200, provided that predetermined conditions are met. For example, the predetermined conditions may be met when a predetermined time has elapsed since the last measurement. Additionally, the predetermined conditions may be met when the number of connected devices 30 increases or decreases. Furthermore, the predetermined conditions may be met when software or firmware updates are performed on the communication device 20. Alternatively, two or all three conditions may be met.

[0081] <Summary of Implementation Methods> 1. The communication device (200) described in the above embodiments is a communication device capable of relaying data obtained via a network to one or more other communication devices (30). The communication device (200) includes: Acquisition mechanism (252) acquires information about the maximum throughput of the communication device; Connection mechanism (253), which is connected to one or more other communication devices; and The decision-making mechanism (254) determines the transmission throughput for transmitting data to each of the other communication devices based on the number of connected units of the one or more other communication devices and the information on the maximum throughput.

[0082] Therefore, it is possible to allocate the appropriate throughput, including the terminal (communication device) and the connected terminals (other communication devices).

[0083] 2. In the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments, The determining mechanism determines the transmission throughput by dividing the maximum throughput by the number of connected other communication devices and the total number of communication devices.

[0084] This allows for a balanced distribution of transmission throughput to connected terminals (other communication devices).

[0085] 3. In the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments, The decision-making body also determines the throughput for receiving data in the communication device by dividing the maximum throughput by the number of connected other communication devices and the total number of communication devices.

[0086] Therefore, the processing throughput of this terminal (communication device) and the transmission throughput to connected terminals (other communication devices) can be evenly distributed.

[0087] 4. The communication device (200) according to the above embodiments further includes: Measuring device (255) measures the current throughput of data received in the communication device; and The changing mechanism (256) changes the current throughput or the transmission throughput based on the difference between the current throughput measured by the measuring mechanism and the throughput determined by the deciding mechanism.

[0088] Therefore, it is possible to allocate throughput taking into account the current processing status in the communication device.

[0089] 5. In the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments, If the transmission throughput is greater than the current throughput, the modification mechanism changes the transmission throughput in a manner that reduces the transmission throughput to the same level as the current throughput.

[0090] Therefore, the processing throughput of this terminal (communication device) and the transmission throughput to connected terminals (other communication devices) can be evenly distributed.

[0091] 6. In the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments, If the transmission throughput is less than the current throughput, the modification mechanism changes the current throughput in a manner that reduces the current throughput to the same level as the transmission throughput.

[0092] Therefore, the processing throughput of this terminal (communication device) and the transmission throughput to connected terminals (other communication devices) can be evenly distributed.

[0093] 7. In the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments, The measuring mechanism measures the current throughput under predetermined conditions.

[0094] Therefore, throughput can be adjusted at the appropriate time.

[0095] 8. In the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments, The conditions for meeting the predetermined conditions include at least one of the following three situations: a predetermined time has elapsed since the previous measurement, the number of connected units of the one or more other communication devices increases or decreases, and the software or firmware update process of the communication device is performed.

[0096] Therefore, throughput can be adjusted at the appropriate time.

[0097] 9. In the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments, The communication device (200) also includes a measuring mechanism (255) that measures the current throughput of data received in the communication device. The decision-making body determines the transmission throughput based on the current throughput, the maximum throughput, and the number of connections to the one or more other communication devices.

[0098] Therefore, the transmission throughput can be determined by taking into account the throughput used in this terminal (communication device).

[0099] 10. In the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments, The decision-making body determines the transmission throughput by dividing the value of the maximum throughput minus the current throughput by the value of the number of connected units.

[0100] This ensures that the transmission throughput is evenly distributed based on the throughput used in this terminal (communication device).

[0101] 11. The communication device (200) according to the above embodiments further includes an information acquisition mechanism (257), which acquires the location information of the other one or more communication devices. The decision-making body further determines the transmission throughput based on the location information.

[0102] Therefore, the transmission throughput can be appropriately allocated according to the location of the connected terminal (other communication device).

[0103] 12. In the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments, The communication device is a communication device mounted on the vehicle (20). The decision-making mechanism determines the transmission throughput in such a way that, based on the location information, the transmission throughput to other communication devices located inside the vehicle becomes greater than the transmission throughput to other communication devices located outside the vehicle.

[0104] This allows for prioritizing the allocation of transmission throughput to connected terminals (other communication devices) within the vehicle. Consequently, the communication experience for users in the vehicle who are expected to have high data communication needs (longer connection times) can be improved, providing a comfortable communication environment.

[0105] 13. In the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments, The communication device is a communication device mounted on the vehicle (20). The decision-making mechanism determines the transmission throughput in such a way that, based on the location information, the transmission throughput to other communication devices located in the driver's seat or passenger seat of the vehicle becomes greater than the transmission throughput to other communication devices located in the rear seats of the vehicle.

[0106] Therefore, it is possible to allocate transmission throughput based on the communication devices of the same owner as the vehicle owner.

[0107] 14. In the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments, The communication device operates as an access point. The other communication devices operate as stations.

[0108] Therefore, data communication can be carried out using a communication device as an access point.

[0109] 15. The control method for the communication device (200) according to the above embodiments is a control method for a communication device capable of relaying data obtained via a network to one or more other communication devices (30). The control method of the communication device (200) includes: The acquisition step involves acquiring information about the maximum throughput of the communication device. A connection step, in which connection is made with one or more other communication devices; and The decision step involves determining the transmission throughput for transmitting data to each of the other communication devices based on the number of connected units of the one or more other communication devices and the information on the maximum throughput.

[0110] Therefore, it is possible to allocate the appropriate throughput, including the terminal (communication device) and the connected terminals (other communication devices).

[0111] 6. The program product involved in the above embodiments is a program product that includes a program for causing a computer to execute the control method of the communication device involved in the above embodiments.

[0112] Therefore, control methods can be implemented through computers.

[0113] 17. The storage medium described in the above embodiments is a storage medium that stores a program for causing a computer to execute the control method of the communication device described in the above embodiments.

[0114] Therefore, control methods can be implemented through storage media.

[0115] <Other Implementation Methods> Furthermore, a program that implements one or more functions described in each embodiment is supplied to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and one or more processors in the computer of the system or device can read and execute the program. The present invention can also be implemented in this manner.

[0116] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and alterations can be made within the scope of the inventive intent.

Claims

1. A communication device capable of relaying data acquired via a network to one or more other communication devices, characterized in that, The communication device includes: An acquisition mechanism that acquires information about the maximum throughput of the communication device; A connection mechanism that connects to one or more other communication devices; as well as The decision-making body determines the transmission throughput for transmitting data to each of the other communication devices based on the number of connected devices and the maximum throughput information.

2. The communication device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The determining mechanism determines the transmission throughput by dividing the maximum throughput by the number of connected other communication devices and the total number of communication devices.

3. The communication device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The decision-making body also determines the throughput for receiving data in the communication device by dividing the maximum throughput by the number of connected other communication devices and the total number of communication devices.

4. The communication device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The communication device also includes: A measuring mechanism that measures the current throughput of data received in the communication device; and The changing mechanism modifies the current throughput or the transmission throughput based on the difference between the current throughput measured by the measuring mechanism and the throughput determined by the deciding mechanism.

5. The communication device according to claim 4, characterized in that, If the transmission throughput is greater than the current throughput, the modification mechanism changes the transmission throughput in a manner that reduces the transmission throughput to the same level as the current throughput.

6. The communication device according to claim 4, characterized in that, If the transmission throughput is less than the current throughput, the modification mechanism changes the current throughput in a manner that reduces the current throughput to the same level as the transmission throughput.

7. The communication device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The measuring mechanism measures the current throughput under predetermined conditions.

8. The communication device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The conditions for meeting the predetermined conditions include at least one of the following three situations: a predetermined time has elapsed since the previous measurement, the number of connected units of the one or more other communication devices increases or decreases, and the software or firmware update process of the communication device is performed.

9. The communication device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The communication device also includes a measuring mechanism that measures the current throughput of data received in the communication device. The decision-making body determines the transmission throughput based on the current throughput, the maximum throughput, and the number of connections to the one or more other communication devices.

10. The communication device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The decision-making body determines the transmission throughput by dividing the value of the maximum throughput minus the current throughput by the value of the number of connected units.

11. The communication device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The communication device further includes a location information acquisition mechanism, which acquires the location information of the other one or more communication devices. The decision-making body further determines the transmission throughput based on the location information.

12. The communication device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The communication device is a vehicle-mounted communication device. The decision-making mechanism determines the transmission throughput in such a way that, based on the location information, the transmission throughput to other communication devices located inside the vehicle becomes greater than the transmission throughput to other communication devices located outside the vehicle.

13. The communication device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The communication device is a vehicle-mounted communication device. The decision-making mechanism determines the transmission throughput in such a way that, based on the location information, the transmission throughput to other communication devices located in the driver's seat or passenger seat of the vehicle becomes greater than the transmission throughput to other communication devices located in the rear seats of the vehicle.

14. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The communication device operates as an access point. The other communication devices operate as stations.

15. A control method for a communication device, characterized in that, it is a control method for a communication device capable of relaying data acquired via a network to one or more other communication devices, and that, The control method of the communication device has the following characteristics: The acquisition step involves acquiring information about the maximum throughput of the communication device. A connection step, in which the device is connected to one or more other communication devices; as well as The decision step involves determining the transmission throughput for transmitting data to each of the other communication devices based on the number of connected units of the one or more other communication devices and the information on the maximum throughput.

16. A program product, characterized in that, The program product includes a program for causing a computer to execute the control method of the communication device of claim 15.

17. A storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a program for causing a computer to execute the control method of the communication device of claim 15.

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