Communication system and printer

Abstract

To improve convenience of a user.SOLUTION: A communication system 100 comprises a first compound machine 1, a second compound machine 2, and an access point 3 with which the first compound machine 1 performs communication junction. In the communication system 100, the first compound machine 1 outputs junction information JC including first junction information JC1 for the second compound machine 2 to perform communication junction with the access point 3 and second junction information JC2 for the second compound machine 2 to perform communication junction with the first compound machine 1 via the access point 3. The second compound machine 2 receives input of the junction information JC, performs communication junction with the access point 3 on the basis of the first junction information JC1 included in the junction information JC, and performs communication junction with the first compound machine 1 via the access point 3 on the basis of the second junction information JC2 included in the junction information JC.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a communication system and a printing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses that a first printing device prints a special code containing setting information, and a second printing device sets the setting information in the second printing device based on the results of scanning the special code. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-1526 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 does not disclose that the first printing device and the second printing device communicate with each other, and there is room for improvement in terms of increasing user convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A communication system according to one embodiment that solves the above problem is a communication system comprising a first information processing device, a second information processing device, and an access point to which the first information processing device communicates, wherein the first information processing device outputs connection information including first connection information for the second information processing device to communicate with the access point and second connection information for the second information processing device to communicate with the first information processing device via the access point, and the second information processing device accepts input of the connection information, communicates with the access point based on the first connection information included in the connection information, and communicates with the first information processing device via the access point based on the second connection information included in the connection information.

[0006] Another aspect of a printing device that solves the above problem is a printing device that communicates with an access point, wherein the printing device outputs connection information including first connection information for another printing device to communicate with the access point and second connection information for the other printing device to communicate with the printing device via the access point, and when the other printing device communicates with the printing device via the access point based on the connection information, the printing device sends setting information of the printing device to the other printing device, and the setting information includes at least one of print setting information, scan setting information, copy setting information, facsimile setting information including a phone book, network setting information, network security setting information, and administrator information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first multifunction peripheral according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a diagram showing an example of setting information. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a second multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment. [Figure 5]FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of main processing of the communication system. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram showing an example of main processing of the communication system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0009] First, the configuration of a communication system 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the communication system 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the communication system 100 includes a first multifunction device 1, a second multifunction device 2, and an access point 3. Each of the first multifunction device 1 and the second multifunction device 2 is a so-called MFP (Multi Function Peripheral).

[0010] The first multifunction device 1 is communicably connected to an access point 3. The first multifunction device 1 is also communicably connected to a second multifunction device 2 via the access point 3. The first multifunction device 1 and the access point 3 communicate with each other in accordance with, for example, the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard. The second multifunction device 2 and the access point 3 communicate with each other in accordance with, for example, the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard. The first multifunction device 1 corresponds to an example of a "first information processing device." The first multifunction device 1 corresponds to an example of a "printing device."

[0011] The access point 3 is, for example, a router. In this embodiment, the access point 3 is a router, but is not limited to this. The access point 3 may also be, for example, a hub.

[0012] Furthermore, the first multifunction device 1 outputs connection information JC. The connection information JC includes first connection information JC1 and second connection information JC2. The first connection information JC1 is connection information for the second multifunction device 2 to establish a communication connection with the access point 3. The second connection information JC2 is connection information for the second multifunction device 2 to establish a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3.

[0013] The second multifunction device 2 has substantially the same configuration as the first multifunction device 1. The second multifunction device 2 is, for example, the same model as the first multifunction device 1 and manufactured by the same manufacturer. The second multifunction device 2 receives connection information JC. The connection information JC includes first connection information JC1 and second connection information JC2. The second multifunction device 2 establishes a communication connection with the access point 3 based on the first connection information JC1. The second multifunction device 2 also establishes a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3 based on the second connection information JC2. The second multifunction device 2 corresponds to an example of a "second information processing device." The second multifunction device 2 corresponds to an example of an "other printing device." The connection information JC, the first connection information JC1, and the second connection information JC2 will be further described with reference to FIGS.

[0014] Next, the configuration of the first multifunction device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first multifunction device 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the first multifunction device 1 includes a first control unit 11, a first operation mechanism 12, a first display mechanism 13, a first communication interface 14, a first printing mechanism 15, a first scanner mechanism 16, and a first facsimile mechanism 17. The first control unit 11 controls the operation of each unit of the first multifunction device 1. Each of the first operation mechanism 12, the first display mechanism 13, the first communication interface 14, the first printing mechanism 15, the first scanner mechanism 16, and the first facsimile mechanism 17 is configured to be able to communicate with the first control unit 11.

[0015] The first control unit 11 includes a first processor 11A such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a first memory 11B such as a ROM (Read Only Memory). The first memory 11B stores a first control program PG1.

[0016] The first processor 11A may be configured with multiple processors or may be configured with a single processor. The first processor 11A may be hardware programmed to implement the functions of each unit described below. That is, the first processor 11A may be configured with the first control program PG1 installed as a hardware circuit. In this case, the first processor 11A may be configured with, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or the like. In the following description, the first processor 11A executes the first control program PG1 to realize various functions of the first control unit 11.

[0017] The first memory 11B has a nonvolatile storage area that stores programs and data in a nonvolatile manner. The first memory 11B may include, for example, a ROM, a hard disk drive (HDD), or a solid state drive (SSD) as the nonvolatile storage area. The first memory 11B may also include a volatile storage area that constitutes a work area that temporarily stores programs executed by the first processor 11A and data to be processed. The first memory 11B may also include, for example, a random access memory (RAM) as the volatile storage area.

[0018] The first operation mechanism 12 includes an input means such as an operation switch or a touch panel provided on the first multifunction device 1, detects an operation of the user on the input means, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the operation to the first control unit 11. The first control unit 11 executes a process corresponding to the user's operation based on the input from the first operation mechanism 12. The user is, for example, an administrator of the first multifunction device 1.

[0019] The first display mechanism 13 has a display panel such as a plurality of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and performs operations such as turning on, off, and blinking the LEDs in a predetermined manner and displaying information on the display panel under the control of the first control unit 11.

[0020] The first communication interface 14 is a communication interface that communicates with the access point 3 in accordance with the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard. The first communication interface 14 includes an antenna that receives Wi-Fi (registered trademark) signals and an interface circuit that processes the signals received by the antenna. The first communication interface 14 is an interface board that has an antenna and an interface circuit, and is connected to a main board on which the first processor 11A and the like of the first control unit 11 are mounted. Alternatively, the antenna and interface circuit that constitute the first communication interface 14 are mounted on the main board of the first control unit 11.

[0021] The first printing mechanism 15 executes a printing function under the control of the first control unit 11. Under the control of the first control unit 11, the first printing mechanism 15 prints characters, images, etc. on a printing medium such as printing paper using ink. The first printing mechanism 15 includes a print head 151, a transport motor 152, and a transport roller 153 as components related to printing. The print head 151 is an inkjet type and ejects ink supplied from an ink supply unit (not shown) toward the print medium. The print head 151 is made up of, for example, multiple line heads. A transport motor 152 drives and rotates a transport roller 153. The transport roller 153 transports the print medium in the transport direction.

[0022] The first scanner mechanism 16 reads images such as characters and figures formed on a printing medium such as printing paper, and generates image information. The first scanner mechanism 16 then outputs the generated image information to the first control unit 11.

[0023] The first facsimile mechanism 17 reads images such as characters and figures formed on a printing medium such as printing paper and generates image information. The first facsimile mechanism 17 then transmits the generated image information to another facsimile device via a public telephone line or the like. The first facsimile mechanism 17 also receives image information from another facsimile device via a public telephone line or the like. The first facsimile mechanism 17 then prints the received image information on a printing medium such as printing paper using, for example, the first printing mechanism 15.

[0024] 2, the first control unit 11 includes a connection information output unit 111, a state transition unit 112, a determination unit 113, a setting information output unit 114, a first printing control unit 115, a first communication control unit 116, and a first setting information storage unit 117. Each of these units is realized by software and hardware working together, for example, when the first processor 11A executes a first control program PG1. In other words, by executing the first control program PG1, the first processor 11A functions as a connection information output unit 111, a state transition unit 112, a determination unit 113, a setting information output unit 114, a first print control unit 115, and a first communication control unit 116. Furthermore, by executing the first control program PG1, the first processor 11A causes the first memory 11B to function as a first setting information storage unit 117. The first communication control unit 116 controls the first communication interface 14.

[0025] The first setting information storage unit 117 stores setting information JS that is set in advance for the first multifunction device 1. The setting information JS includes, for example, print setting information, scan setting information, copy setting information, facsimile setting information including a phone book, network setting information, network security setting information, and administrator information. The setting information JS will be further explained with reference to FIG.

[0026] The connection information output unit 111 outputs connection information JC. The connection information JC includes first connection information JC1 and second connection information JC2. The second multifunction device 2 establishes a communication connection with the access point 3 based on the first connection information JC1. The second multifunction device 2 also establishes a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3 based on the second connection information JC2.

[0027] The connection information output unit 111 generates, for example, image information JQ of a QR (Quick Response) code (registered trademark) that indicates the connection information JC. Then, the connection information output unit 111 causes the first printing mechanism 15 to print out the image information JQ of the QR code (registered trademark) on a printing medium. QR Code (registered trademark) corresponds to an example of a "two-dimensional barcode." The first connection information JC1 includes, for example, the SSID (Service Set Identifier) ​​of the access point 3 and the password of the access point 3.

[0028] The second connection information JC2 includes, for example, the MAC address (Media Access Control address) AM of the first multifunction device 1 and a unique key KQ. The unique key KQ is a unique key KQ that is generated when the connection information output unit 111 generates QR code (registered trademark) image information JQ. The unique key KQ is updated every time the connection information output unit 111 generates QR code (registered trademark) image information JQ. In other words, the unique key KQ is updated every time the connection information output unit 111 prints a QR code (registered trademark). The unique key KQ here corresponds to an example of a "first unique key." In the following description, the unique key KQ generated and stored by the first multifunction device 1 may be referred to as the first unique key KQ1. The first unique key KQ1 is a unique key KQ that is obtained without going through the second multifunction device 2.

[0029] The state transition unit 112 transitions the first multifunction device 1 between the normal state STN and the specific state STD. In the normal state STN, for example, a print job is accepted from a personal computer (not shown) or the like, and the first printing mechanism 15 is caused to execute the print job. In the specific state STD, for example, the connection information output unit 111 prints out the connection information JC as a QR code (registered trademark). Also, in the specific state STD, for example, the second multifunction device 2 is permitted to connect to the first multifunction device 1 for communication via the access point 3.

[0030] The state transition unit 112 transitions the first multifunction device 1 from the normal state STN to the specific state STD, for example, based on a user's operation on the first operating mechanism 12. The state transition unit 112 also transitions the first multifunction device 1 to the normal state STN, for example, when a predetermined period of time TP has elapsed since the first multifunction device 1 transitioned to the specific state STD. The predetermined period of time TP is, for example, three hours.

[0031] The determination unit 113 determines whether or not predetermined conditions CP are satisfied. The predetermined conditions CP include a first condition C1 and a second condition C2. The first condition C1 is that the second connection information JC2 is appropriate information. For example, the first condition C1 is that when the second multifunction device 2 requests a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1, the second unique key KQ2 input from the second multifunction device 2 to the access point 3 matches the first unique key KQ1 generated by the first multifunction device 1. The second condition C2 is that the first multifunction device 1 is in the specific state STD.

[0032] In this embodiment, the predetermined condition CP is described as the first condition C1 and the second condition C2, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The predetermined condition CP may be at least one of the first condition C1 and the second condition C2. The predetermined condition CP may be, for example, the first condition C1 or the second condition C2. In this case, the processing of the determination unit 113 can be simplified.

[0033] When the determining unit 113 determines that the predetermined condition CP is satisfied, the determining unit 113 permits the communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 requested by the second multifunction device 2. Furthermore, when the determining unit 113 determines that the predetermined condition CP is not satisfied, the determining unit 113 prohibits the second multifunction device 2 from establishing a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 as requested by the second multifunction device 2.

[0034] When the second multifunction device 2 is connected to the first multifunction device 1 for communication via the access point 3, the setting information output unit 114 reads the setting information JS of the first multifunction device 1 from the first setting information storage unit 117 and transmits the read setting information JS to the second multifunction device 2.

[0035] The first print control unit 115 receives a print job from a personal computer (not shown) or the like, and causes the first print mechanism 15 to execute the received print job.

[0036] The first communication control unit 116 controls the first communication interface 14. The first communication control unit 116 receives a request for communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 from the second multifunction device 2 via the access point 3. At that time, the first communication control unit 116 receives the MAC address AM of the first multifunction device 1 and the second unique key KQ2 from the second multifunction device 2. Furthermore, when the second multifunction device 2 is connected to the first multifunction device 1 for communication via the access point 3, the first communication control unit 116 transmits the setting information JS of the first multifunction device 1 to the second multifunction device 2.

[0037] Next, the setting information JS will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the setting information JS. As shown in Fig. 3, from left to right, classification CF, item JT, and content CT are shown. The classification CF classifies the setting information JS in association with the functions of the first multifunction device 1. The classification CF classifies, for example, the functions into a print function, a scan function, a copy function, a facsimile function, a network function, and the like.

[0038] The items JT include, for example, print setting information, scan setting information, copy setting information, facsimile setting information including a telephone directory, network setting information, network security setting information, and administrator information. For example, print setting information is included in the classification CF corresponding to the print function. For example, scan setting information and copy setting information are included in the classification CF corresponding to the scan function and copy function. For example, facsimile setting information including a phone book is included in the category CF corresponding to the facsimile function.

[0039] Next, the configuration of the second multifunction device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the second multifunction device 2 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the second multifunction device 2 includes a second control unit 21, a second operation mechanism 22, a second display mechanism 23, a second communication interface 24, a second printing mechanism 25, a second scanner mechanism 26, and a second facsimile mechanism 27. The second control unit 21 controls the operation of each unit of the second multifunction device 2. Each of the second operation mechanism 22, the second display mechanism 23, the second communication interface 24, the second printing mechanism 25, the second scanner mechanism 26, and the second facsimile mechanism 27 is configured to be able to communicate with the second control unit 21.

[0040] The second control unit 21 includes a second processor 21A such as a CPU, and a second memory 21B such as a ROM. The second memory 21B stores a second control program PG2.

[0041] The second processor 21A may be configured with multiple processors or may be configured with a single processor. The second processor 21A may be hardware programmed to implement the functions of each unit described below. That is, the second processor 21A may be configured to include the second control program PG2 as a hardware circuit. In this case, the second processor 21A may be configured, for example, with an ASIC, an FPGA, or the like. In the following description, the second processor 21A executes the second control program PG2 to realize various functions of the second control unit 21.

[0042] The second memory 21B has a nonvolatile storage area that stores programs and data in a nonvolatile manner. The second memory 21B may include, for example, a ROM, HDD, SSD, etc. as the nonvolatile storage area. The second memory 21B may also include a volatile storage area that constitutes a work area that temporarily stores programs executed by the second processor 21A and data to be processed. The second memory 21B may also include, for example, a RAM, etc. as the volatile storage area.

[0043] The second operation mechanism 22 has a configuration similar to that of the first operation mechanism 12 described with reference to FIG. 2. The second display mechanism 23 has a configuration similar to that of the first display mechanism 13 described with reference to FIG. 2. The second communication interface 24 has a configuration similar to that of the first communication interface 14 described with reference to FIG. 2. The second printing mechanism 25 has a configuration similar to that of the first printing mechanism 15 described with reference to FIG. 2. The second scanner mechanism 26 has a configuration similar to that of the first scanner mechanism 16 described with reference to FIG. 2. The second facsimile mechanism 27 has a configuration similar to that of the first facsimile mechanism 17 described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0044] 2, the second control unit 21 includes a connection information acquisition unit 211, a setting unit 213, a second print control unit 214, a second communication control unit 215, and a second setting information storage unit 216. These units are realized, for example, by the second processor 21A executing the second control program PG2, through cooperation between software and hardware. In other words, the second processor 21A executes the second control program PG2 to function as the connection information acquisition unit 211, the setting unit 213, the second print control unit 214, and the second communication control unit 215. The second processor 21A also executes the second control program PG2, causing the second memory 21B to function as the second setting information storage unit 216. The second communication control unit 215 controls the second communication interface 24.

[0045] The second setting information storage unit 216 stores the setting information JS. The setting information JS is acquired by the setting unit 213 from the first multifunction device 1 when the second multifunction device 2 is connected to the first multifunction device 1 for communication via the access point 3. The setting unit 213 then stores the setting information JS acquired from the first multifunction device 1 in the second setting information storage unit 216.

[0046] The connection information acquisition unit 211 receives the connection information JC. The connection information acquisition unit 211 uses, for example, a print medium on which a QR code (registered trademark) is printed by the first multifunction device 1 to cause the second scanner mechanism 26 to generate image information JQ of the QR code (registered trademark). Then, the connection information acquisition unit 211 acquires connection information JC from the image information JQ of the QR code (registered trademark). The connection information JC includes first connection information JC1 and second connection information JC2.

[0047] The first connection information JC1 includes, for example, the SSID of the access point 3 and the password of the access point 3. The second connection information JC2 includes, for example, the MAC address AM of the first multifunction device 1 and a unique key KQ. The unique key KQ here corresponds to an example of a “second unique key.” In the following description, the unique key KQ obtained via the second multifunction device 2 may be referred to as a second unique key KQ2.

[0048] The second communication control unit 215 controls the second communication interface 24 to establish a communication connection with the access point 3 based on the first connection information JC1. The second communication control unit 215, for example, transmits the first connection information JC1 to the access point 3 to request a communication connection with the access point 3. Then, the second communication control unit 215 establishes a communication connection with the access point 3. Furthermore, the second communication control unit 215 establishes a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3 based on the second connection information JC2. For example, the second communication control unit 215 transmits the second connection information JC2 to the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3 to request a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1. Then, the second communication control unit 215 establishes a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3.

[0049] When the second communication control unit 215 is connected to the first multifunction device 1 for communication via the access point 3, the setting unit 213 acquires the setting information JS from the first multifunction device 1 via the second communication interface 24. Then, the setting unit 213 stores the acquired setting information JS in the second setting information storage unit 216. The setting unit 213 also executes a process for setting the acquired setting information JS in the first multifunction device 1.

[0050] The second print control unit 214 receives a print job from a personal computer (not shown) or the like, and causes the second print mechanism 25 to execute the received print job.

[0051] Next, an example of main processing of the communication system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of main processing of the communication system 100. Fig. 6 is a sequence diagram showing an example of main processing of the communication system 100. In the following description, the first multifunction device 1 is in the specific state STD. First, in step S101, the first control unit 11 of the first multifunction device 1 establishes a communication connection with the access point 3, as shown in FIG.

[0052] Next, in step S103, as shown in Fig. 5(B), the connection information output unit 111 of the first multifunction peripheral 1 prints out a QR code (registered trademark) indicating the connection information JC. More specifically, when printing out the QR code (registered trademark), the connection information output unit 111 updates the unique key KQ and prints out a QR code (registered trademark) indicating the latest unique key KQ. The connection information output unit 111 also stores the latest unique key KQ in the first memory 11B as a first unique key KQ1. 5C, the connection information acquisition unit 211 of the second multifunction device 2 scans the print medium on which the QR code (registered trademark) is printed and acquires the connection information JC. The connection information JC includes the first connection information JC1 and the second connection information JC2. Next, in step S107, as shown in FIG. 5D, the second communication control unit 215 of the second multifunction peripheral 2 establishes a communication connection with the access point 3 based on the first connection information JC1. More specifically, the second communication control unit 215 establishes a communication connection with the access point 3 based on the SSID and password of the access point 3. At this time, if a control unit (not shown) provided in the access point 3 determines that the password received from the second communication control unit 215 is valid, it permits the communication connection between the second communication control unit 215 and the access point 3. On the other hand, if the control unit provided in the access point 3 determines that the password received from the second communication control unit 215 is invalid, it prohibits the communication connection between the second communication control unit 215 and the access point 3. The following describes a case where the communication connection between the second communication control unit 215 and the access point 3 is permitted.

[0053] Next, in step S109, as shown in (E) of FIG. 5, the second communication control unit 215 of the second multifunction device 2 requests a communication connection to the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3 based on the second connection information JC2. Next, in step S111, the determination unit 113 of the first multifunction device 1 determines whether or not predetermined conditions CP are satisfied. The predetermined conditions CP are a first condition C1 and a second condition C2. The first condition C1 is that the second unique key KQ2 input from the second multifunction device 2 to the access point 3 matches the latest first unique key KQ1 generated by the first multifunction device 1 and stored in the first memory 11B. The second condition C2 is that the first multifunction device 1 is in a specific state STD. If the determination unit 113 determines that the predetermined condition CP is not satisfied (step S111; NO), the determination unit 113 prohibits the second multifunction device 2 from connecting to the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3, and then the process ends.If the determination unit 113 determines that the predetermined condition CP is satisfied (step S111; YES), the determination unit 113 permits the second multifunction device 2 to connect to the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3, and the process proceeds to step S113.

[0054] Then, in step S113, the second communication control unit 215 of the second multifunction device 2 establishes a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3, as shown in (F) and (G) of FIG. Next, in step S115, the setting information output unit 114 of the first multifunction device 1 transmits the setting information JS to the second multifunction device 2. Next, in step S117, the setting unit 213 of the second multifunction device 2 acquires the setting information JS from the first multifunction device 1, and executes a process of setting the acquired setting information JS in the first multifunction device 1. Next, in step S119, the second communication control unit 215 of the second multifunction device 2 cuts off the communication connection with the first multifunction device 1. After that, the process ends.

[0055] As described above with reference to Figures 1 to 6, the communication system 100 according to this embodiment is a communication system 100 comprising a first multifunction printer 1, a second multifunction printer 2, and an access point 3 to which the first multifunction printer 1 is communicatively connected, wherein the first multifunction printer 1 outputs connection information JC including first connection information JC1 for the second multifunction printer 2 to communicatively connect with the access point 3 and second connection information JC2 for the second multifunction printer 2 to communicatively connect with the first multifunction printer 1 via the access point 3, and the second multifunction printer 2 accepts input of the connection information JC, and communicatively connects with the access point 3 based on the first connection information JC1 included in the connection information JC, and communicatively connects with the first multifunction printer 1 via the access point 3 based on the second connection information JC2 included in the connection information JC.

[0056] According to this configuration, the second multifunction device 2 can be connected to the access point 3 with a simple configuration, and can also be connected to the first multifunction device 1. This improves user convenience.

[0057] Furthermore, in the communication system 100 according to this embodiment, when the second multifunction device 2 establishes a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3, it acquires the setting information JS of the first multifunction device 1 and configures the second multifunction device 2 based on the setting information JS.

[0058] This configuration makes it easy to set up the second multifunction device 2. This reduces the time and effort required to set up the second multifunction device 2. This improves user convenience.

[0059] In the communication system 100 according to this embodiment, the setting information JS includes print setting information, scan setting information, copy setting information, facsimile setting information including a phone book, network setting information, network security setting information, and administrator information.

[0060] According to this configuration, since the setting information JS includes personal information such as a phone book and administrator information, it is preferable to improve security by appropriately setting the second connection information JC2.

[0061] Furthermore, in the communication system 100 according to this embodiment, the first multifunction device 1 has a judgment unit 113, which judges whether or not a predetermined condition CP is satisfied, and if it is judged that the predetermined condition CP is satisfied, allows a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 requested by the second multifunction device 2, and if it is judged that the predetermined condition CP is not satisfied, prohibits a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 requested by the second multifunction device 2, the predetermined condition CP being a first condition C1 indicating that the second connection information JC2 is appropriate information, and a second condition C2 indicating that the first multifunction device 1 is in a predetermined state.

[0062] According to this configuration, the predetermined condition CP is the first condition C1 indicating that the second connection information JC2 is appropriate information, and the second condition C2 indicating that the first multifunction device 1 is in a predetermined state, thereby improving security.

[0063] Furthermore, in the communication system 100 according to this embodiment, the second connection information JC2 includes the first unique key KQ1 generated by the first multifunction device 1, the second multifunction device 2 requests a communication connection with the first multifunction device 1 using the second unique key KQ2, and the first condition C1 is that the second unique key KQ2 matches the first unique key KQ1.

[0064] According to this configuration, the first condition C1 is that the second unique key KQ2 matches the first unique key KQ1, thereby improving security.

[0065] Furthermore, in the communication system 100 according to this embodiment, the first multifunction device 1 prints the connection information JC as a QR code (registered trademark) on a print medium, and updates the first unique key KQ1 every time a QR code (registered trademark) is printed.

[0066] According to this configuration, the first unique key KQ1 is updated every time a QR code (registered trademark) is printed, thereby improving security. For example, if the print medium on which the QR code (registered trademark) is printed is lost, the first unique key KQ1 can be updated by printing a new QR code (registered trademark). Therefore, security can be improved.

[0067] Furthermore, in the communication system 100 according to this embodiment, the first multifunction device 1 transitions between the normal state STN and the specific state STD, and the second condition C2 is that the first multifunction device 1 is in the specific state STD.

[0068] According to this configuration, the second condition C2 is that the first multifunction device 1 is in the specific state STD, and by appropriately setting the specific state STD, security can be improved.

[0069] Furthermore, in the communication system 100 according to this embodiment, the first multifunction device 1 prints the connection information JC as a QR code (registered trademark) on a print medium in the specific state STD.

[0070] According to this configuration, in the specific state STD, the connection information JC is printed on the printing medium as a QR code (registered trademark), so the user can print the connection information JC on the printing medium as a QR code (registered trademark) by putting the first multifunction device 1 into the specific state STD, thereby improving user convenience.

[0071] Furthermore, in the communication system 100 according to this embodiment, the first multifunction device 1 transitions from the specific state STD to the normal state STN when a predetermined period of time TP has elapsed.

[0072] According to this configuration, when the predetermined period TP has elapsed, the specific state STD transitions to the normal state STN, and by setting the predetermined period TP to an appropriate period, security can be improved. In order to improve security, it is preferable to set the predetermined period TP to a short period. On the other hand, when configuring multiple multifunction devices using the setting information JS of the first multifunction device 1, the work time becomes long, so it is preferable to set the predetermined period TP according to the work time.

[0073] In this embodiment, the first multifunction device 1 communicates with an access point 3, and outputs connection information JC including first connection information JC1 for the second multifunction device 2 to communicate with the access point 3 and second connection information JC2 for the second multifunction device 2 to communicate with the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3. When the second multifunction device 2 communicates with the first multifunction device 1 via the access point 3 based on the connection information JC, the first multifunction device 1 transmits setting information JS of the first multifunction device 1 to the second multifunction device 2, and the setting information JS includes print setting information, scan setting information, copy setting information, facsimile setting information including a phone book, network setting information, network security setting information, and administrator information.

[0074] According to this configuration, the second multifunction device 2 can communicate with the access point 3 and can also communicate with the first multifunction device 1 with a simple configuration. This improves user convenience. Also, the second multifunction device 2 can be easily configured using the setting information JS of the first multifunction device 1. This reduces the effort required to configure the second multifunction device 2. This improves user convenience. Also, because the setting information JS includes personal information such as a phone book and administrator information, it is preferable to improve security by appropriately configuring the second connection information JC2.

[0075] This embodiment shows one mode, and any modifications and applications are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0076] In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the "first information processing device" is the first multifunction device 1 and the "second information processing device" is the second multifunction device 2, but the embodiment is not limited to this. It is sufficient that each of the "first information processing device" and the "second information processing device" has a communication function and an information processing function. For example, each of the "first information processing device" and the "second information processing device" may be a personal computer. Also, for example, each of the "first information processing device" and the "second information processing device" may be a projector.

[0077] In addition, although the present embodiment describes a case where the "printing device" is a multifunction peripheral, the embodiment is not limited to this. The "printing device" may have a printing function, a scanning function, a communication function, and an information processing function. The "printing device" may also be, for example, a copier.

[0078] In addition, in this embodiment, a case will be described in which the first multifunction device 1 and the access point 3 communicate in accordance with the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard, and the second multifunction device 2 and the access point 3 communicate in accordance with the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The first multifunction device 1 and the access point 3 may communicate in accordance with the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard, and the second multifunction device 2 and the access point 3 may communicate in accordance with the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard.

[0079] In addition, in this embodiment, a case where the first multifunction device 1 prints out the connection information JC as a QR code (registered trademark) will be described, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the first multifunction device 1 may print out the connection information JC as a two-dimensional barcode in another format. Also, for example, the multifunction device 1 may output the connection information JC to a memory such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) (registered trademark) memory.

[0080] In addition, in this embodiment, the first multifunction peripheral 1 is provided with the determination unit 113, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the access point 3 may be provided with the determination unit 113.

[0081] In addition, in this embodiment, a case will be described in which the setting information JS includes print setting information, scan setting information, copy setting information, facsimile setting information including a phone book, network setting information, network security setting information, and administrator information, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The setting information JS only needs to include at least one of print setting information, scan setting information, copy setting information, facsimile setting information including a phone book, network setting information, network security setting information, and administrator information.

[0082] In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the first processor 11A provided in the first multifunction device 1 executes the first control program PG1 stored in the first memory 11B, and the second processor 21A provided in the second multifunction device 2 executes the second control program PG2 stored in the second memory 21B, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The first control program PG1 and the second control program PG2 can also be configured in the form of a printed medium on which they are recorded so as to be readable by a computer, or in the form of a transmission medium for transmitting the first control program PG1 and the second control program PG2. The print medium may be a magnetic or optical print medium or a semiconductor memory device, and may be a portable or fixed print medium such as a flexible disk, HDD, CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc, magneto-optical disk, flash memory, or card-type print medium. The print medium may be a non-volatile storage device such as a RAM, a ROM, or a HDD, which is an internal storage device provided in the first multifunction device 1 and the second multifunction device 2.

[0083] The functions of the first control unit 11 of the first multifunction device 1 and the functions of the second control unit 21 of the second multifunction device 2 may each be realized by one or more processors or semiconductor chips. Each of the first control unit 11 and the second control unit 21 may further include a co-processor such as an SoC (System-on-a-Chip), an MCU (Micro Control Unit), or an FPGA. Each of the first control unit 11 and the second control unit 21 may perform various controls by using both the CPU and the co-processor in cooperation with each other, or by selectively using one of the two.

[0084] The processing units in the sequence diagram of Figure 6 are divided according to the main processing content to make the processing of the communication system 100 easier to understand, and are not limited by the way in which the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. The processing units in the sequence diagram may be divided into more processing units depending on the processing content. One processing unit may also be divided so that it includes more processing. The order of the processing may be changed as appropriate within the scope that does not impair the intent.

[0085] The functional units shown in Figures 2 and 4 indicate functional configurations, and the specific implementation form is not particularly limited. It is not necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each functional unit individually, and it is also possible to configure a configuration in which a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of multiple functional units. Some of the functions realized by software in the above-mentioned embodiments may be implemented by hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be implemented by software. In addition, the specific detailed configurations of each of the other units of each of the first multifunction device 1 and the second multifunction device 2 may also be changed as desired within the scope of the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 100...communication system, 1...first multifunction device (first information processing device, printing device), 11...first control unit, 11A...first processor, 11B...first memory, 111...connection information output unit, 112...state transition unit, 113...determination unit, 114...setting information output unit, 115...first printing control unit, 116...first communication control unit, 117...first setting information storage unit, 2...second multifunction device (second information processing device, other printing device), 21...second control unit, 21A...second processor, 21B...second memory, 211...connection information Acquisition unit, 213...setting unit, 214...second printing control unit, 215...second communication control unit, 216...second setting information storage unit, 3...access point, C1...first condition, C2...second condition, CP...predetermined condition, JC...connection information, JC1...first connection information, JC2...second connection information, JS...setting information, KQ...unique key, KQ1...first unique key, KQ2...second unique key, PG1...first control program, PG2...second control program, STD...specific state, STN...normal state, TP...predetermined period.

Claims

1. A communication system including a first information processing device, a second information processing device, and an access point to which the first information processing device is connected for communication, The first information processing device outputting connection information including first connection information for the second information processing device to establish a communication connection with the access point and second connection information for the second information processing device to establish a communication connection with the first information processing device via the access point; The second information processing device Accepting the input of the connection information, establishing a communication connection with the access point based on the first connection information included in the connection information; establishing a communication connection with the first information processing device via the access point based on the second connection information included in the connection information; Communication system.

2. when the second information processing device is connected to the first information processing device via the access point, the second information processing device acquires setting information of the first information processing device and configures the second information processing device based on the setting information; The communication system of claim 1 .

3. each of the first information processing device and the second information processing device is a printing device, The setting information includes at least one of print setting information, scan setting information, copy setting information, facsimile setting information including a telephone directory, network setting information, network security setting information, and administrator information. The communication system according to claim 2 .

4. At least one of the first information processing device and the access point has a determination unit, The determination unit Determine whether a predetermined condition is met; If it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied, permitting a communication connection with the first information processing device requested by the second information processing device; If it is determined that the predetermined condition is not satisfied, prohibiting a communication connection with the first information processing device requested by the second information processing device; the predetermined condition is at least one of a first condition indicating that the second connection information is appropriate information and a second condition indicating that the first information processing device is in a predetermined state; 3. The communication system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. the second connection information includes a first unique key generated by the first information processing device, the second information processing device requests a communication connection with the first information processing device using a second unique key; the first condition is that the second unique key matches the first unique key; The communication system according to claim 4.

6. the first information processing device is a printing device, the first information processing device prints the connection information as a two-dimensional barcode on a print medium, and updates the first unique key every time the two-dimensional barcode is printed; The communication system according to claim 5 .

7. the first information processing device transitions between a normal state and a specific state, the second condition is that the first information processing device is in the specific state; The communication system according to claim 4.

8. the first information processing device is a printing device, the first information processing device prints the connection information as a two-dimensional barcode on a print medium in the specific state; 8. The communication system according to claim 7.

9. the first information processing device transitions from the specific state to the normal state when a predetermined period of time has elapsed; 8. The communication system according to claim 7.

10. A printing device that is communicatively connected to an access point, The printing device outputting connection information including first connection information for another printing device to establish a communication connection with the access point and second connection information for the other printing device to establish a communication connection with the printing device via the access point; When the other printing device establishes a communication connection with the other printing device via the access point based on the connection information, the other printing device transmits setting information of the other printing device to the other printing device; The setting information includes at least one of print setting information, scan setting information, copy setting information, facsimile setting information including a telephone directory, network setting information, network security setting information, and administrator information. Printing device.

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