Electronic apparatus, authentication system, control method and program

Abstract

To ensure security and reduce the hassle of identity authentication.SOLUTION: A control unit of an electronic clock acquires information indicating the strength of the radio waves in wireless communication with a ring device via a communication unit. When information indicating that the strength of the radio waves is a predetermined threshold value or more is acquired continuously for a predetermined time or longer, access to a predetermined function is granted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device, an authentication system, a control method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In order to improve the usability of mobile devices that can be unlocked by biometric authentication, there is a technology that adjusts the biometric authentication level of the mobile device depending on the received radio wave strength in wireless communication between the mobile device and a wearable device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-163341 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the mobile devices of the above technology are premised on unlocking using biometric authentication. In devices that unlock using personal authentication without biometric authentication, if the authentication level is lowered according to radio wave strength in order to reduce the hassle of personal authentication, the user wearing the wearable device and a third party attempting to surreptitiously view the user's mobile device may be nearby when the mobile device determines the radio wave strength, which could easily unlock the device and result in insufficient security.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and has as its object to reduce the hassle of personal authentication while ensuring security. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: a communication unit capable of wirelessly communicating with a predetermined wearable device; a control unit that locks a predetermined function when a predetermined condition is satisfied; Equipped with The control unit acquires information indicating the radio wave strength in wireless communication with the wearable device via the communication unit, and unlocks the specified function when the information indicating that the radio wave strength is above a specified threshold is acquired continuously for a specified period of time or more. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the hassle of personal authentication while ensuring security. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an authentication system according to the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of an authentication system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of ring-side authentication processing A executed by the control unit of the ring device in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of timepiece-side authentication processing A executed by the control unit of the electronic timepiece in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an authentication system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of ring-side authentication processing B executed by the control unit of the ring device in the second embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of timepiece-side authentication processing B executed by the control unit of the electronic timepiece in the second embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of timepiece-side authentication processing B executed by the control unit of the electronic timepiece in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiments described below are subject to various limitations that are technically preferable for implementing the present invention. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and illustrated examples.

[0010] First, we will explain an authentication system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the authentication system 100 comprises a ring device (wearable device) 1 and an electronic watch 2 (electronic device). The ring device 1 is generally worn on the user's hand (finger) at all times. The electronic watch 2 is detachable from the user's hand (wrist). The authentication system 100 is a system that unlocks a predetermined function of the electronic watch 2 by utilizing the fact that, when both the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are worn on the user's hand, the distance between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 is maintained at distance D1 shown in FIG. 1(a) or distance D2 shown in FIG. 1(b).

[0011] As shown in FIG. 2, the ring device 1 includes a control unit 11, a wearing detection sensor 12, a movement detection sensor 13, an authentication unit 14, and a communication unit 15, and each unit is connected via a bus 16.

[0012] The control unit 11 is a computer that includes at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), etc., and controls each part of the ring device 1. Specifically, the CPU of the control unit 11 reads out a designated program from among the system programs and various programs stored in the ROM, expands it into the RAM, and executes various processes in cooperation with the expanded program.

[0013] The wearing detection sensor 12 is a sensor for detecting whether or not the ring device 1 is being worn. The wearing detection sensor 12 is configured by, for example, an infrared sensor or a capacitance sensor, and outputs a detection value by the sensor to the control unit 11.

[0014] The motion detection sensor 13 is a sensor for detecting the motion of the ring device 1. The motion detection sensor 13 is configured by, for example, an acceleration sensor, and outputs a value detected by the sensor to the control unit 11.

[0015] The authentication unit 14 uses finger vein authentication or fingerprint authentication to authenticate whether the person wearing the ring device 1 is the user authorized to use the ring device 1, and outputs the authentication result to the control unit 11. Note that the authentication unit 14 may be realized by cooperation between the CPU of the control unit 11 and a program stored in the ROM.

[0016] The communication unit 15 controls communication to communicate with external devices such as the electronic timepiece 2 using a predetermined communication method such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0017] The electronic watch 2 is, for example, a smart watch, and as shown in Figure 2, it includes a control unit 21, a memory unit 22, a communication unit 23, an operation unit 24, a display unit 25, and a timing unit 26, and each unit is connected via a bus 27.

[0018] The control unit 21 is a computer that includes at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), etc., and controls each part of the electronic watch 2. Specifically, the CPU of the control unit 21 reads out a specified program from the system program stored in the ROM or from various applications (application programs) stored in the memory unit 22, expands it in the RAM, and executes various processes in cooperation with the expanded program.

[0019] The storage unit 22 is composed of a non-volatile semiconductor memory or the like. The storage unit 22 stores various application programs and data necessary for executing the programs. For example, the storage unit 22 stores the correspondence between the distance from the ring device 1 and the radio wave intensity of the radio waves received from the ring device 1 by the communication unit 23. Note that the storage unit 22 is not limited to being built into the electronic watch 2, but may include an external recording medium that is detachable from the electronic watch 2. The control unit 21 executes various functions in cooperation with application programs (apps) stored in the storage unit 22.

[0020] The communication unit 23 controls communication to perform wireless communication with an external device via a wireless LAN such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), a communication network including a mobile phone communication network and the Internet, or Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc. In this embodiment, the communication unit 23 performs wireless communication with the ring device 1 via Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0021] The operation unit 24 is composed of push button switches, a touch panel superimposed on the display unit 25, etc. The operation unit 24 outputs to the control unit 21 an operation signal corresponding to the operation of the push button switch by the user or an operation signal corresponding to the operation of the touch panel.

[0022] The display unit 25 is configured with a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, and performs display based on the control operation of the control unit 21.

[0023] The timekeeping unit 26 includes an oscillation circuit, a frequency dividing circuit, a timekeeping circuit, etc., and measures the current date and time and outputs the measured time to the control unit 21.

[0024] Next, the operation of the authentication system 100 in this embodiment will be described. When predetermined conditions are met, the control unit 21 of the electronic watch 2 locks a predetermined function to prevent it from being used by others. Examples of predetermined functions include a function to display the initial screen, a function to display (use) personal information such as a profile or payment information, a function to purchase an app, and a function to perform predetermined settings. There may be one or more predetermined functions. To use a locked function, the user must be authenticated and unlocked. Examples of authentication include entering authentication information such as a user ID and password, but entering authentication information every time a user attempts to use a predetermined function can be inconvenient for the user. On the other hand, lowering the authentication level by, for example, reducing the number of digits in the password to reduce user inconvenience increases the risk that the lock will be unlocked by others when the user is not wearing the watch.

[0025] Therefore, in the authentication system 100 of this embodiment, the ring device 1 executes the ring-side authentication process A shown in Figure 3, and the electronic watch 2 executes the watch-side authentication process A shown in Figure 4, thereby ensuring security while reducing the hassle of personal authentication.

[0026] First, referring to Fig. 3, a description will be given of ring side authentication processing A executed by the control unit 11 of the ring device 1. The ring side authentication processing A is executed by the CPU of the control unit 11 in cooperation with a program stored in the ROM.

[0027] In the ring-side authentication process A, first, the control unit 11 determines whether or not motion of the ring device 1 has been detected based on the detection value of the motion detection sensor 13 (step S1). For example, the control unit 11 determines that motion of the ring device 1 has been detected when the value of the acceleration sensor of the motion detection sensor 13 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and determines that motion of the ring device 1 has not been detected when the value of the acceleration sensor is less than the predetermined threshold.

[0028] Here, when the ring device 1 is worn (attached), the ring device 1 moves when worn on the finger, and therefore the detection value of the motion detection sensor 13 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value indicating movement. Also, the motion detection sensor 13 does not consume as much power as the wearing detection sensor 12. Therefore, the motion detection sensor 13 is kept constantly operating to detect whether or not the ring device 1 is moving, and the wearing detection sensor 12 is operated when movement is detected, thereby reducing the power consumption of the ring device 1.

[0029] If it is determined that no movement of the ring device 1 has been detected (step S1; NO), the control unit 11 returns to step S1. If it is determined that movement of the ring device 1 has been detected (step S1; YES), the control unit 11 determines whether the ring device 1 is being worn based on the detection value of the wearing detection sensor 12 (step S2). For example, the control unit 11 determines that the ring device 1 is being worn when the detection value of the infrared sensor or capacitance sensor of the wearing detection sensor 12 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and determines that the ring device 1 is not being worn when the detection value of the infrared sensor or capacitance sensor is less than the predetermined threshold. If it is determined that the ring device 1 is not being worn (step S2; NO), the control unit 11 returns to step S1.

[0030] If it is determined that the ring device 1 is being worn (step S2; YES), the control unit 11 causes the authentication unit 14 to perform personal authentication, and determines whether or not the person wearing the ring device 1 is the actual user authorized to use the ring device 1 (step S3). If it is determined as a result of the authentication that the person wearing the ring device 1 is not the actual user of the ring device 1 (personal authentication NG) (step S3; NO), the control unit 11 returns to step S1.

[0031] If the authentication result indicates that the person wearing the ring device 1 is the actual user of the ring device 1 (authentication OK) (step S3; YES), the control unit 11 causes the communication unit 15 to start BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication (step S4). For example, the control unit 11 causes the communication unit 15 to start advertising, and communicates with the electronic watch 2 in response to a connection request from the electronic watch 2. If communication with the electronic watch 2 is cut off or if there is no connection request from the electronic watch 2 for more than a predetermined time, the control unit 11 ends the BLE communication and returns to step S1. The control unit 11 repeatedly executes steps S1 to S4 while power is being supplied.

[0032] Next, the watch-side authentication process A executed by the control unit 21 of the electronic watch 2 will be described with reference to Figure 4. The watch-side authentication process A is executed by the CPU of the control unit 21 in cooperation with a program stored in the memory unit 22.

[0033] In watch-side authentication process A, first, the control unit 21 determines whether or not a communication connection with the ring device 1 is possible via the communication unit 23 (step S11). For example, the control unit 21 starts BLE communication (scanning) via the communication unit 23, and determines whether or not a communication connection with the ring device 1 is possible based on whether or not a signal (advertisement) has been received from the ring device 1. Note that if a communication connection with the ring device 1 is already in progress, the control unit 21 determines that a communication connection with the ring device 1 is possible.

[0034] When it is determined that communication with the ring device 1 is possible (step S11; YES), the control unit 21 starts measuring the radio wave strength in wireless communication with the ring device 1 (step S12). For example, when the control unit 21 receives an advertising signal from the ring device 1 via the communication unit 23, the control unit 21 measures the radio wave strength by acquiring information indicating the strength of the received radio wave (radio reception strength indicator (RSSI)).

[0035] Next, the control unit 21 determines whether the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are worn on the same hand (step S13). Here, whether the electronic watch 2 is worn on the right hand or the left hand is preset in the electronic watch 2 (stored in the memory unit 22). The default is the left hand, but the user can also set it to the right hand by operating the operation unit 24. Information on whether the ring device 1 is worn on the right hand or the left hand may be preset in the electronic watch 2 (stored in the memory unit 22), or may be obtained from the ring device 1 via wireless communication. The ring device 1 can determine whether it is worn on the right hand or the left hand by fingerprint authentication.

[0036] If it is determined that the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are worn on the same hand (step S13; YES), the control unit 21 determines whether radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least 20 cm corresponding to a distance between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined period of time or more (e.g., 5 to 10 seconds) (step S14).

[0037] Here, when the user wears the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 on the same hand (arm) as the hand on which the ring device 1 is worn, the maximum distance D1 between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 is approximately 20 cm. Furthermore, since the distance D1 between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 is kept constant while the user is wearing the ring device 1, the radio wave strength of the wireless communication with the ring device 1 is stable at a level equal to or greater than the radio wave strength corresponding to a distance of 20 cm between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2. Furthermore, as described with reference to FIG. 3, the ring device 1 is capable of wireless communication (BLE communication) only when it has been authenticated as being worn by the user. Therefore, in step S14, the condition for determining whether the electronic watch 2 is being worn by the user, i.e., the condition for determining whether to unlock, is whether or not radio waves with a radio wave strength equal to or greater than the radio wave strength corresponding to a distance of 20 cm between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined period of time or longer.

[0038] If it is determined that radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least 20 cm corresponding to a distance between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for at least a predetermined time (step S14; YES), the control unit 21 determines whether the predetermined function is locked (step S15). If it is determined that the predetermined function is locked (step S15; YES), the control unit 21 unlocks the predetermined function (step S16) and returns to step S11. If it is determined that the predetermined function is not locked (step S15; NO), the control unit 21 returns to step S11. In other words, if radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least 20 cm corresponding to a distance between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for at least a predetermined time, it can be said that the electronic watch 2 is worn by the user, and if the predetermined function is locked, the lock is automatically unlocked. This makes it possible to ensure security while reducing the hassle of personal authentication. As described above, when the user is wearing both the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2, the distance between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 is kept constant, and the radio wave strength in wireless communication with the ring device 1 is therefore stable at a strength within a predetermined range from a value of radio wave strength corresponding to a predetermined distance (for example, 20 cm) between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2. Therefore, in step S14, it may be determined whether or not radio waves with a value within a predetermined range from a value of radio wave strength corresponding to 20 cm have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined period of time or more.

[0039] If it is determined that radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least 20 cm corresponding to a distance between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have not been received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined time or longer (step S14; NO), the control unit 21 determines whether the predetermined function is locked (step S17). If it is determined that the predetermined function is not locked (step S17; NO), the control unit 21 locks the predetermined function (step S18) and returns to step S11. If it is determined that the predetermined function is locked (step S17; YES), the control unit 21 returns to step S11. If radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least 20 cm corresponding to a distance between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have not been received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined time or longer, it cannot be determined that the electronic watch 2 is being worn by the user, and therefore the predetermined function is locked if it is not locked. Note that personal authentication (e.g., authentication by entering a user ID and password) is required to unlock the function.

[0040] If it is determined that the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are not worn on the same hand (step S13; NO), the control unit 21 determines whether radio waves of a radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a distance of 1 m between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined period of time or more (step S19).

[0041] Here, if the electronic watch 2 is worn on a different hand (arm) from the one on which the ring device 1 is worn, the distance D2 between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 will be longer than the distance D1 when they are worn on the same hand, and may be about 1 meter apart. Therefore, in step S19, the radio wave strength threshold, which is the condition for determining whether the electronic watch 2 is being worn by the user, i.e., the condition for determining whether to unlock, is lowered compared to when the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are worn on the same hand. Note that in step S19, for the same purpose as in step S14, it may also be determined "whether radio waves within a predetermined range of the radio wave strength value equivalent to 1 meter have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for more than a predetermined time."

[0042] If it is determined that radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least 1 meter corresponding to a distance of 1 meter between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for at least a predetermined time (step S19; YES), the control unit 21 determines whether the predetermined function is locked (step S20). If it is determined that the predetermined function is locked (step S20; YES), the control unit 21 unlocks the predetermined function (step S21) and returns to step S11. If it is determined that the predetermined function is not locked (step S20; NO), the control unit 21 returns to step S11. In other words, if radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least 1 meter corresponding to a distance of 1 meter between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for at least a predetermined time, it can be said that the electronic watch 2 is worn by the user, and if the predetermined function is locked, the lock is unlocked. This makes it possible to ensure security while reducing the hassle of personal authentication.

[0043] If it is determined that radio wave intensity of at least one meter corresponding to a distance of 1 meter between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 has not been received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined time or longer (step S19; NO), the control unit 21 determines whether the predetermined function is locked (step S22). If it is determined that the predetermined function is not locked (step S22; NO), the control unit 21 locks the predetermined function (step S23) and returns to step S11. If it is determined that the predetermined function is locked (step S22; YES), the control unit 21 returns to step S11. In other words, if radio wave intensity of at least one meter corresponding to a distance of 1 meter between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 has not been received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined time or longer, it cannot be said that the electronic watch 2 is being worn by the user, and therefore the predetermined function is locked if it is not locked.

[0044] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that communication with the ring device 1 is not possible via the communication unit 23 (step S11; NO), the control unit 21 determines whether the above-mentioned predetermined function is locked (step S24). If it is determined that the predetermined function is locked (step S24; YES), the control unit 21 returns to step S11. If it is determined that the predetermined function is not locked (step S24; NO), the control unit 21 locks the predetermined function (step S25) and returns to step S11. The control unit 21 repeatedly executes the processes of steps S11 to S25 while power is being supplied.

[0045] Thus, in the first embodiment, the electronic watch 2 unlocks certain functions when it receives radio waves with a radio wave intensity above a predetermined threshold via wireless communication with the ring device 1 for a predetermined period of time or more, i.e., when it can be determined that the ring device 1 and electronic watch 2 are being worn by the user. In other words, as long as the user is wearing the ring device 1 and electronic watch 2, they are essentially in an unlocked state, eliminating the need to bother to enter a user ID, password, authentication number, etc. for identity authentication. This reduces the hassle of identity authentication while ensuring security.

[0046] <Second embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment, additional processing is added to the first embodiment to enhance security and reduce power consumption.

[0047] In the authentication system 100 of the second embodiment, the electronic watch 2 is equipped with a movement detection sensor 28 and a wearing detection sensor 29, as shown in FIG. 5. The movement detection sensor 28 is a sensor for detecting the movement of the electronic watch 2. The movement detection sensor 28 is composed of, for example, an acceleration sensor and / or a gyro sensor, and outputs the detection value to the control unit 21. The wearing detection sensor 29 (detection unit) is a sensor for detecting whether the electronic watch 2 is being worn. The wearing detection sensor 29 is composed of, for example, an infrared sensor or a capacitance sensor, and outputs the detection value to the control unit 21. The other configuration of the second embodiment is the same as that described in the first embodiment, so the explanation will be used to refer to the first embodiment, and the operation of the authentication system 100 of the second embodiment will be described below.

[0048] First, referring to Fig. 6, a description will be given of ring-side authentication process B executed by the control unit 11 of the ring device 1 in the second embodiment. The ring-side authentication process B is executed by the CPU of the control unit 11 in cooperation with a program stored in the ROM.

[0049] In the ring-side authentication process B, first, the control unit 11 executes the processes of steps S31 to S34. The processes of steps S31 to S34 are the same as steps S1 to S4 in Fig. 3, and therefore the description thereof will be cited. The control unit 11 temporarily stores the authentication result in step S33 (information indicating that the personal authentication is OK) in RAM.

[0050] In step S35, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a connection request from the electronic watch 2 has been received by the communication unit 15 (step S35). For example, the control unit 11 starts advertising and waits up to a predetermined time until a connection request from the electronic watch 2 is received. If it is determined that a connection request from the electronic watch 2 has not been received (step S35; NO), the control unit 11 returns to step S31.

[0051] If it is determined that a connection request has been received from the electronic watch 2 (step S35; YES), the control unit 11 connects to the electronic watch 2 via the communication unit 15, sends information indicating that personal authentication has been successful to the electronic watch 2 (step S36), and returns to step S31. The control unit 11 repeatedly executes steps S31 to S36 while power is being supplied.

[0052] 7 and 8, a description will now be given of the timepiece-side authentication process B executed by the control unit 21 of the electronic timepiece 2. The timepiece-side authentication process B is executed by the CPU of the control unit 21 in cooperation with a program stored in the memory unit 22.

[0053] In the watch-side authentication process B, first, the control unit 21 determines whether or not movement of the electronic watch 2 has been detected based on the detection value of the movement detection sensor 28 (step S41). For example, the control unit 21 determines that movement of the electronic watch 2 has been detected if the value of the acceleration sensor of the movement detection sensor 28 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and determines that movement of the electronic watch 2 has not been detected if the value of the acceleration sensor is less than the predetermined threshold.

[0054] Here, when the electronic watch 2 is worn (attached), the electronic watch 2 will be moving, and the detection value of the motion detection sensor 28 will be a value equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold indicating that the electronic watch 2 is moving. Furthermore, the motion detection sensor 28 does not consume as much power as the wearing detection sensor 29. Therefore, the motion detection sensor 28 is kept constantly operating to detect whether the electronic watch 2 is moving, and the wearing detection sensor 29 is operated when movement is detected, thereby reducing the power consumption of the electronic watch 2.

[0055] If it is determined that movement of the electronic timepiece 2 has not been detected (step S41; NO), the control unit 21 proceeds to step S63. If it is determined that movement of the electronic timepiece 2 has been detected (step S41; YES), the control unit 21 determines whether the electronic timepiece 2 is being worn based on the detection value from the wearing detection sensor 29 (step S42). For example, the control unit 21 determines that the electronic timepiece 2 is being worn if the detection value of the wearing detection sensor 29 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and determines that the electronic timepiece 2 is not being worn if the detection value of the wearing detection sensor 29 is less than the predetermined threshold.

[0056] If the electronic watch 2 is not being worn, there is a possibility that someone other than the user is carrying the electronic watch 2. Therefore, if the electronic watch 2 is not being worn, the step of unlocking the specified functions (step S50 or step S58) will not be proceeded to, and if the functions are not locked, they will be locked, thereby further strengthening security.

[0057] If the control unit 21 determines that the electronic timepiece 2 is not being worn (step S42; NO), it proceeds to step S63. If the control unit 21 determines that the electronic timepiece 2 is being worn (step S42; YES), it determines whether the user is looking at the screen of the display unit 25 based on the detection value from the motion detection sensor 28 (step S43). For example, the control unit 11 determines whether the display unit 25 of the electronic timepiece 2 is approximately horizontal based on the detection value from the motion detection sensor 28, and if it determines that it is approximately horizontal, it determines that the user is looking at the display unit 25. If it determines that the display unit 25 is not approximately horizontal, the control unit 21 determines that the user is not looking at the display unit 25. The motion detection sensor 28 may include an inclination sensor that detects inclination by generating an electrical output when the object to be measured is tilted, and the inclination sensor may be used to determine whether the display unit 25 is approximately horizontal.

[0058] When using a specific function of the electronic watch 2, the screen is held horizontally to view the display unit 25. Operating the motion detection sensor 28 consumes less power than continuous wireless communication by the communication unit 23. Therefore, when it is determined based on the detection value from the motion detection sensor 28 that the user is looking at the screen of the display unit 25, wireless communication with the ring device 1 is initiated, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0059] If it is determined that the user is not looking at the screen of the display unit 25 (step S43; NO), the control unit 21 returns to step S41. If it is determined that the user is looking at the screen of the display unit 25 (step S43; YES), the control unit 21 determines whether or not a communication connection with the ring device 1 is possible via the communication unit 23 (step S44). For example, the control unit 21 starts BLE communication (scanning) via the communication unit 23, and determines whether or not a communication connection with the ring device 1 is possible based on whether or not a signal (advertisement) from the ring device 1 is received. Note that if a communication connection with the ring device 1 is already established, it determines that a communication connection with the ring device 1 is possible.

[0060] If it is determined that communication with the ring device 1 is not possible (step S44; NO), the control unit 21 proceeds to step S63. If it is determined that communication with the ring device 1 is possible (step S44; YES), the control unit 21 starts measuring the communication strength between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 (step S45). The processing in step S45 is the same as step S12 in FIG. 4, so the explanation will be used here.

[0061] Next, the control unit 21 determines whether the ring device 1 and the electronic timepiece 2 are worn on the same hand (step S46). The processing in step S46 is the same as step S13 in Figure 4, so the same explanation will be used.

[0062] If it is determined that the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are worn on the same hand (step S46; YES), the control unit 21 determines whether radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least 20 cm corresponding to a distance between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for at least a predetermined time (for example, 5 to 10 seconds) (step S47). The processing in step S47 is the same as in step S14 in FIG. 4, and therefore the explanation therefor is incorporated herein. Note that in step S47, as in step S14, it may be determined whether "radio waves with a value within a predetermined range from the value of the radio wave intensity corresponding to 20 cm have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for at least a predetermined time."

[0063] If it is determined that radio waves of a radio wave intensity equal to or greater than that corresponding to a distance of 20 cm between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined time or longer (step S47; YES), the control unit 21 determines whether the above-mentioned predetermined function is locked (step S48). If it is determined that the predetermined function is locked (step S48; YES), the control unit 21 determines whether information indicating that personal authentication is successful has been received from the ring device 1 via the communication unit 23 (step S49). If it is determined that information indicating that personal authentication is successful has not been received from the ring device 1 (step S49; NO), the control unit 21 returns to step S41. If it is determined that information indicating that personal authentication is successful has been received from the ring device 1 (step S49; YES), the control unit 21 unlocks the predetermined function (step S50) and returns to step S41. By unlocking the function when information indicating that personal authentication is successful is received from the ring device 1, it is possible to unlock the function only after confirming that the personal authentication result is successful, thereby improving security.

[0064] If it is determined in step S48 that the predetermined function is not locked (step S48; NO), the control unit 21 connects to the ring device 1 via the communication unit 23 and determines whether or not information indicating that personal authentication is OK has been received from the ring device 1 (step S51). If it is determined that information indicating that personal authentication is OK has not been received from the ring device 1 (step S51; NO), the control unit 21 locks the predetermined function (step S52) and returns to step S41. If it is determined that information indicating that personal authentication is OK has been received from the ring device 1 (step S51; YES), the control unit 21 returns to step S41.

[0065] If it is determined that radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least 20 cm corresponding to a distance between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have not been received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined time or longer (step S47; NO), the control unit 21 determines whether the above-mentioned predetermined function is locked (step S53). If it is determined that the predetermined function is not locked (step S53; NO), the control unit 21 locks the predetermined function (step S54) and returns to step S41. If it is determined that the predetermined function is locked (step S53; YES), the control unit 21 returns to step S41. If radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least 20 cm corresponding to a distance between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have not been received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined time or longer, it cannot be said that the electronic watch 2 is being worn by the user, and therefore, if the predetermined function is not locked, it is locked.

[0066] On the other hand, if it is determined that the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are not worn on the same hand (step S46; NO), the control unit 21 determines whether a radio wave strength of at least the radio wave strength corresponding to a distance of 1 m between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 has been continuously received from the ring device 1 for at least a predetermined time (step S55).

[0067] If the electronic watch 2 is worn on a different hand (arm) than the one on which the ring device 1 is worn, the distance between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 will be longer than when they are worn on the same hand, and may be about 1 meter apart. Therefore, in step S55, the radio wave strength threshold used to determine whether the electronic watch 2 is being worn by the user, i.e., whether to unlock the device, is set lower than when the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are worn on the same hand. Note that in step S55, for the same purpose as in step S14, it may also be determined whether radio waves within a predetermined range of the radio wave strength value corresponding to 1 meter have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for more than a predetermined time.

[0068] If it is determined that radio waves of a radio wave intensity equal to or greater than the intensity corresponding to a distance of 1 meter between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have been continuously received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined time or longer (step S55; YES), the control unit 21 determines whether the predetermined function is locked (step S56). If it is determined that the predetermined function is locked (step S56; YES), the control unit 21 determines whether information indicating that personal authentication is successful has been received from the ring device 1 via the communication unit 23 (step S57). If it is determined that information indicating that personal authentication is successful has not been received from the ring device 1 (step S57; NO), the control unit 21 returns to step S41. If it is determined that information indicating that personal authentication is successful has been received from the ring device 1 (step S57; YES), the control unit 21 unlocks the predetermined function (step S58) and returns to step S41. By unlocking the function when information indicating that personal authentication is successful is received from the ring device 1, it is possible to confirm that personal authentication is successful before unlocking the function, thereby improving security.

[0069] If it is determined in step S56 that the predetermined function is not locked (step S56; NO), the control unit 21 determines whether or not information indicating that personal authentication is OK has been received from the ring device 1 via the communication unit 23 (step S59). If it is determined that information indicating that personal authentication is OK has not been received from the ring device 1 (step S59; NO), the control unit 21 locks the predetermined function (step S60) and returns to step S41. If it is determined that information indicating that personal authentication is OK has been received from the ring device 1 (step S59; YES), the control unit 21 returns to step S41.

[0070] If it is determined that radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least one meter corresponding to a distance of 1 meter between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have not been received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined time or longer (step S55; NO), the control unit 21 determines whether the predetermined function described above is locked (step S61). If it is determined that the predetermined function is not locked (step S61; NO), the control unit 21 locks the predetermined function (step S62) and returns to step S41. If it is determined that the predetermined function is locked (step S61; YES), the control unit 21 returns to step S41. If radio waves with a radio wave intensity of at least one meter corresponding to a distance of 1 meter between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 have not been received from the ring device 1 for a predetermined time or longer, it cannot be said that the electronic watch 2 is being worn by the user, and therefore, if the predetermined function is not locked, it is locked.

[0071] On the other hand, in step S63, the control unit 21 determines whether or not the predetermined function is locked (step S63). If it is determined that the predetermined function is not locked (step S63; NO), the control unit 21 locks the predetermined function (step S64) and returns to step S41. If it is determined that the predetermined function is locked (step S63; YES), the control unit 21 returns to step S41. The control unit 21 repeatedly executes the processes of steps S41 to S64 while power is being supplied.

[0072] In this way, in the second embodiment, the electronic watch 2 is controlled to unlock certain functions when radio waves having a radio wave intensity above a predetermined threshold are received continuously for a predetermined period of time or more via wireless communication with the ring device 1, and when information indicating successful personal authentication is received from the ring device 1. Furthermore, when radio waves having a radio wave intensity above a predetermined threshold are received continuously for a predetermined period of time or more via wireless communication with the ring device 1, and when the electronic watch 2 is being worn, the electronic watch 2 is also unlocked. This further strengthens security. Furthermore, power consumption can be reduced by activating the wearing detection sensor 29 when motion is detected by the motion detection sensor 28, or by starting wireless communication when it is determined that the user is looking at the screen.

[0073] As explained above, the control unit 21 of the electronic watch 2 acquires information indicating the radio wave strength in wireless communication with the ring device 1 via the communication unit 23, and unlocks certain functions when information indicating that the radio wave strength is above a predetermined threshold is acquired continuously for a predetermined period of time or longer. In other words, as long as the user is wearing the ring device 1 and electronic watch 2, they are essentially always unlocked, eliminating the need to bother to enter a user ID, password, authentication number, etc. for identity authentication. This reduces the hassle of identity authentication while ensuring security.

[0074] Furthermore, the ring device 1 can authenticate whether the person wearing the ring device 1 is the authorized user through vein authentication or fingerprint authentication, and the control unit 21 unlocks certain functions when the communication unit 23 receives information from the ring device 1 indicating that the user has been authenticated and when information indicating that the radio wave strength in wireless communication with the ring device 1 is above a predetermined threshold is continuously acquired for a predetermined period of time or more. This further strengthens security.

[0075] Furthermore, the control unit 21 unlocks certain functions when the wearing detection sensor 29 detects that the electronic timepiece 2 is being worn and information indicating that the radio wave strength in wireless communication with the ring device 1 is above a certain threshold is acquired continuously for a certain period of time or longer, thereby further strengthening security.

[0076] Furthermore, when a predetermined movement is detected based on the detection value from the movement detection sensor 28, the control unit 21 causes the communication unit 23 to start wireless communication between the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2. Therefore, when a predetermined movement is not detected, wireless communication can be limited to reduce power consumption.

[0077] The control unit 21 also changes the threshold value of the radio wave intensity depending on whether the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are worn on the same hand, so it can determine whether to unlock using an appropriate threshold value depending on whether the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are worn on the same hand.

[0078] The ring device 1 also has an authentication unit 14 that authenticates whether the person wearing the ring device 1 is the authorized user through vein authentication or fingerprint authentication, and when the authentication unit 14 authenticates that the person wearing the ring device 1 is the authorized user, wireless communication is performed with the electronic watch 2. Therefore, if the person wearing the ring device 1 is not authenticated as the authorized user, wireless communication with the electronic watch 2 is not performed, further strengthening the security of the electronic watch 2.

[0079] The ring device 1 also includes an acceleration sensor, and when a detection value obtained by the acceleration sensor is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, authentication is performed by the authentication unit 14. Therefore, authentication is restricted when the user is not wearing the ring device 1, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0080] The above-described embodiment is a preferred example of an embodiment of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[0081] For example, in the first and second embodiments, the radio wave intensity thresholds used in steps S14, S19, S47, and S55 are described as being predetermined. However, these thresholds are not limited to those used in the above embodiments. For example, the thresholds may be values ​​determined by measurements made in advance. For example, the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 may be worn by the user in advance, and the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication from the ring device 1 acquired by the electronic watch 2 may be measured. The measurement result may be determined as the threshold and stored in the storage unit 22. This allows the user to set an optimal threshold suited to the position, size, etc. of the finger on which the ring device 1 is worn. Furthermore, the duration thresholds (predetermined times) used in steps S14, S19, S47, and S55 are not limited to those used in the above embodiments. For example, the thresholds may be set by the user operating the operation unit 24.

[0082] Furthermore, for example, if a user wears the electronic watch 2 on the left hand and the ring device 1 on the right hand, when using the electronic watch 2 with the right hand to access a specific function, the user will inevitably bring the right hand, on which the ring device 1 is worn, closer to the electronic watch 2 on the left arm. In other words, when the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are worn on different hands and the operation is performed as described above, the radio wave strength in the wireless communication with the ring device 1 gradually increases. Therefore, the control unit 21 may unlock a specific function if the radio wave strength in the wireless communication with the ring device 1 gradually increases and the radio wave strength remains above a predetermined threshold when the ring device 1 and the electronic watch 2 are worn on different hands. This method also ensures security while reducing the hassle of personal authentication.

[0083] Furthermore, the control unit 21 may be configured to automatically unlock the electronic watch 2 when radio wave strength equal to or greater than a threshold is received continuously for a predetermined period of time, even when the electronic watch 2 is not being worn. In this way, even when the user is not wearing the electronic watch 2 but is holding it in their hand and operating it, the lock can be released as long as the ring device 1 is being worn, thereby reducing the hassle of personal authentication.

[0084] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the wireless communication between the ring device 1 and the electronic timepiece 2 is explained as being BLE communication, but the wireless communication method is not particularly limited.

[0085] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the electronic device of the present invention is described as an electronic watch 2, but the electronic device of the present invention is not limited to an electronic watch, and may be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, etc.

[0086] Furthermore, for example, in the above description, an example has been disclosed in which a semiconductor memory or the like is used as a computer-readable medium for the program according to the present invention, but this is not limiting. Portable recording media such as CD-ROMs can also be used as other computer-readable media. Furthermore, carrier waves can also be used as a medium for providing data for the program according to the present invention via a communication line.

[0087] The above describes embodiments of the electronic device, authentication system, control method, and program of the present invention, but the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and includes the scope of the invention described in the claims and its equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 2 Electronic clock, 21 Control unit, 23 Communication unit

Claims

1. a communication unit capable of wirelessly communicating with a predetermined wearable device; a control unit that locks a predetermined function when a predetermined condition is satisfied; Equipped with the control unit acquires information indicating radio wave intensity in wireless communication with the wearable device via the communication unit, and unlocks the predetermined function when the information indicating that the radio wave intensity is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold is continuously acquired for a predetermined time or longer. electronic equipment.

2. the threshold value is a value determined based on a radio wave intensity measured in advance in the wireless communication between the wearable device and the electronic device when the wearable device and the electronic device are worn by a user; The electronic device according to claim 1 .

3. the wearable device is capable of authenticating whether a person wearing the wearable device is a user authorized to use the device by vein authentication or fingerprint authentication; the control unit unlocks the predetermined function when the communication unit receives information from the wearable device indicating that the user has been authenticated and the information indicating that the radio wave intensity is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold is continuously acquired for a predetermined period of time or more. The electronic device according to claim 1 .

4. a detection unit that detects whether the electronic device is worn, The control unit unlocking the predetermined function when the detection unit detects that the electronic device is being worn and the information indicating that the radio wave intensity is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold is continuously acquired for a predetermined period of time or more; The electronic device according to claim 1 .

5. a sensor including at least one of an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, and a tilt sensor; The control unit When a predetermined movement is detected based on the detection value from the sensor, the communication unit starts wireless communication between the wearable device and the electronic device. The electronic device according to claim 1 .

6. the control unit changes the threshold depending on whether the wearable device and the electronic device are worn on the same hand, left or right. The electronic device according to claim 1 .

7. the control unit uses a lower threshold when the wearable device and the electronic device are worn on the same hand than when the wearable device and the electronic device are worn on different hands.

7. The electronic device according to claim 6.

8. the control unit unlocks the predetermined function when, with the wearable device and the electronic device worn on different hands, the value of the radio wave intensity gradually increases and the information indicating that the radio wave intensity is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold is continuously acquired for a predetermined time or more. The electronic device according to claim 1 .

9. A wearable device and an electronic device capable of wireless communication with the wearable device, The electronic device includes: a control unit that locks a predetermined function when a predetermined condition is satisfied, The control unit acquires information indicating radio wave intensity of wireless communication with the wearable device, and unlocks the predetermined function when the information indicating that the radio wave intensity is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold is continuously acquired for a predetermined period of time or more; Authentication system.

10. The wearable device includes an authentication unit that authenticates whether or not a person wearing the wearable device is a user authorized to use the device by vein authentication or fingerprint authentication, and when the authentication unit authenticates that the person wearing the wearable device is the user, the wearable device communicates wirelessly with the electronic device. The authentication system of claim 9.

11. the wearable device includes an acceleration sensor; the authentication unit performs the authentication when a detection value obtained by the acceleration sensor is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value; The authentication system of claim 10.

12. a communication unit capable of wirelessly communicating with a predetermined wearable device; a control unit that locks a predetermined function when a predetermined condition is satisfied; A control unit of an electronic device comprising: acquires information indicating radio wave intensity in wireless communication with the wearable device by the communication unit, and unlocks the predetermined function when the information indicating that the radio wave intensity is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold is continuously acquired for a predetermined time or longer. Control method.

13. A computer of an electronic device having a communication unit capable of wirelessly communicating with a predetermined wearable device, A function of locking a predetermined function when a predetermined condition is met; a function of acquiring information indicating radio wave intensity in wireless communication with the wearable device by the communication unit, and controlling the device to unlock the predetermined function when the information indicating that the radio wave intensity is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold is continuously acquired for a predetermined period of time or more; A program to achieve this.

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