Image processing apparatus, system, and control method

Abstract

To provide an image processing apparatus and the like capable of improving operability of a user regarding acquisition of connection information for connecting to an access point.SOLUTION: An image processing apparatus that generates connection information for connecting to an access point as a code image readable by a terminal, the image processing apparatus comprising: a display unit that displays the generated code image; and a control unit that controls display of the code image on the display unit, wherein the control unit displays, on the display unit, a first code image including connection information for the terminal to connect to the AP of the image processing device and a second code image including connection information for the terminal to connect to an AP other than the image processing device, regardless of whether the function of the image processing device as an AP is enabled or disabled.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image processing device and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 describes that in a communication device capable of operating in access point mode, a first two-dimensional code including address information of the communication device and identification information of the access point, and a second two-dimensional code including address information of the communication device but not identification information of the access point, are generated, and if the device is set not to use access point mode, the first two-dimensional code is not output. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-034380 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure aims to provide an image processing device and the like that can improve user operability regarding acquisition of connection information for connecting to an access point. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above problem, the image processing device of the present disclosure is an image processing device that generates connection information for connecting to an access point as a code image that can be read by a terminal device, and is equipped with a display unit that displays the generated code image and a control unit that controls the display of the code image on the display unit, and is characterized in that the control unit displays on the display unit a first code image that includes connection information for the terminal device to connect to the access point of the image processing device, and a second code image that includes connection information for the terminal device to connect to an access point other than the image processing device, regardless of whether the function of the image processing device as an access point is enabled or disabled.

[0006] Further, the system according to the present disclosure is a system having an image processing device and a terminal device connectable to the image processing device via an access point, wherein the image processing device comprises a generation unit that generates connection information for connecting to the access point as a code image, a display unit that displays the generated code image, and a control unit that controls the display of the code image on the display unit, wherein the control unit displays on the display unit a first code image including connection information for the terminal device to connect to the access point of the image processing device and a second code image including connection information for the terminal device to connect to an access point other than the image processing device, regardless of whether the function of the image processing device as the access point is enabled or disabled, and the terminal device comprises a connection control unit that reads the code image displayed on the display unit and connects to the access point based on the decoded connection information, and the connection control unit stores the decoded connection information regardless of whether connection to the access point based on the first code image or the second code image is successful or not.

[0007] In addition, the control method of the present disclosure is a control method that generates connection information for connecting to an access point as a code image that can be read by a terminal device, displays the generated code image, and controls the display of the code image, and is characterized in that, regardless of whether the function of the image processing device as an access point is enabled or disabled, a first code image including connection information for the terminal device to connect to the access point of the image processing device and a second code image including connection information for the terminal device to connect to an access point other than the image processing device are displayed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an image processing device and the like that can improve user operability in relation to acquisition of connection information for connecting to an access point. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the multifunction peripheral according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of a terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data format of a code image. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11]FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a wireless connection method established between a multifunction peripheral, a terminal device, and an access point. [Figure 14] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a display configuration of an operation screen that displays a code image. [Figure 15] 10 is a table illustrating connection settings. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display configuration of an error notification screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Generally, in order to establish a wireless connection between a network device such as an image processing device or access point that has the function of building a network wirelessly (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) (hereinafter referred to as the access point function) and a terminal device such as a smartphone or PC (Personal Computer) that has a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) function, the user needs to directly input connection information related to the access point, such as the SSID (Service Set Identifier), encryption type, and password (security key), into the terminal device, or select the access point to which the user wishes to connect from a list of searched access points and input the necessary connection information.

[0011] As one of the techniques for reducing the time and effort required for such wireless connection, for example, the connection method illustrated in FIG. 13 is known.

[0012] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a wireless connection method established between a multifunction peripheral 100 as an image processing device with an access point function, a terminal device 200 with a wireless LAN function, and an access point 300.

[0013] First, the multifunction device 100 displays a code image Q10 (in the example of FIG. 13, a two-dimensional code (e.g., a QR code (registered trademark))) that encodes connection information such as the SSID associated with the device itself or another access point (access point 300) that has been set as an access point, the name of the SSID, encryption type, password (security key), etc., on the operation screen W100 of the multifunction device 100 ((1) in the figure).

[0014] The terminal device 200 reads the code image displayed on the operation screen W100 ((2) in the figure), decodes and analyzes the code image, and obtains connection information for connecting to the access point set in the multifunction device 100 ((3) in the figure).

[0015] Then, based on the acquired connection information, if the access point is set to the multifunction device 100, the terminal device 200 wirelessly connects to the multifunction device 100 ((4) in the figure), and if the access point is set to the access point 300, the terminal device 200 wirelessly connects to the access point 300 ((5) in the figure).

[0016] The connection method illustrated in Figure 13 allows the user to easily establish a wireless connection because there is no need for the user to directly input connection information into the terminal device or to select the desired access point to connect to from a list of searched access points.

[0017] 14, only one type of code image Q10 was displayed as a code image corresponding to an access point on the operation screen W100 of the multifunction peripheral 100. That is, when the multifunction peripheral 100 was set as an access point, only a code image encoding connection information related to the access point of the multifunction peripheral 100 was displayed, whereas when another access point (access point 300) was set as an access point, only a code image encoding connection information related to the other access point was displayed.

[0018] Here, consider a case where there is a discrepancy between the connection settings of the main body of the multifunction peripheral 100 and the connection settings in an application (hereinafter simply referred to as an application) related to the generation of a code image. Fig. 15 is a table explaining the relationship between the connection settings of the main body of the multifunction peripheral 100 (connection settings (main body)) and the connection settings in the application (connection settings (application)).

[0019] For example, the connection settings for the multifunction device 100 itself (connection settings (main device)) can be any of three types: "wired connection only," "wired + AP (access point) mode," and "external AP mode," and the connection settings for the app (connection settings (app)) can be any of "connect to this device" and "connect to external AP," and the generation (display) of the code image is explained using an example in which the connection settings (app) take priority.

[0020] 15, when the connection setting (main unit) is "wired connection only" and the connection setting (app) is "connect to this machine," only wired connection is enabled for the multifunction device 100, and AP mode is disabled. Therefore, a code image using the multifunction device 100 as an access point is not displayed on the operation screen W100, and an error message is displayed.

[0021] Similarly, if the connection setting (main unit) is "External AP mode" and the connection setting (app) is "Connect to this unit," even if the connection setting (app) is "Connect to this unit," the code image with the multifunction device 100 as the access point is not displayed on the operation screen W100, and an error message is displayed.

[0022] On the other hand, if the connection setting (main unit) is "wired + AP mode" and the connection setting (app) is "connect to this machine," wired connection and AP mode are enabled for the multifunction device 100. In this case, a code image specifying the multifunction device 100 as an access point is displayed on the operation screen W100, and the terminal device 200 can read the code image.

[0023] When the connection setting (application) is "connect to external AP," the multifunction device 100 can display a code image indicating that the access point 300 is another access point on the operation screen W100, regardless of the settings on the device itself.

[0024] In this way, if there is a discrepancy between the connection settings (main unit) and the connection settings (app), for example, as shown in FIG. 16, the code image corresponding to the access point is not displayed, and an error screen W102 notifying the user of the error content is displayed, which requires the administrator to check and reset the main unit settings of the multifunction device 100, which is time-consuming and not easy to use.

[0025] The image processing device of the present disclosure that solves the above-mentioned problems will be described in the following embodiments with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are merely examples of the disclosure described in the claims, and the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the description of the following embodiments.

[0026] [1 First Embodiment] [1.1 Overall structure] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a system 1 including a multifunction peripheral 10 as an image processing device according to the first embodiment, a terminal device 20, and an access point 30. The multifunction peripheral 10 is an example of an image processing device capable of performing various types of jobs, such as printing, copying, faxing, and image transmission, in a single housing. Note that the image processing device according to the present disclosure is not limited to the multifunction peripheral 10, but may be an image processing device specialized for a specific function, such as a printer or fax, as long as it is capable of performing the function of an access point and is capable of wirelessly connecting to other devices, such as the terminal device 20. Note that the multifunction peripheral 10 may be connected to a network (not shown), such as the Internet, via a wired connection via a network device, such as a router (not shown), and there is no limit to the number of devices connected.

[0027] The terminal device 20 is an information processing terminal that operates under the control of a specific OS (Operating System), and is not particularly limited as long as it is configured to be able to wirelessly connect to other devices (multifunction device 10 or access point 30) using the wireless LAN function of, for example, a laptop computer, smartphone, tablet, mobile phone, etc., and there is no limit to the number of devices that can be connected.

[0028] The access point 30 is a network device capable of transmitting and receiving wireless (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) radio waves. Examples of the access point 30 include a Wi-Fi (registered trademark) access point, a Wi-Fi (registered trademark) router, a mobile Wi-Fi (registered trademark) router, etc., and there is no limit to the number of devices that can be connected. The access point 30 connects wirelessly connected terminal devices 20, etc. to a network (not shown), such as the Internet, via a router (a router function if the access point 30 is a Wi-Fi (registered trademark) router).

[0029] [1.2 About the Multifunction Device 10] [1.2.1 Functional configuration of the multifunction device 10] The functional configuration of the multifunction device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. The multifunction device 10 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 13, an operation input unit 15, a communication unit 17, an image processing unit 18, and a storage unit 19.

[0030] The control unit 11 controls the entire multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 is configured by, for example, one or more arithmetic units (CPU (Central Processing Unit), SoC (System on a Chip), etc.). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 19.

[0031] The display unit 13 is a display device that displays various information to the user, etc. The display unit 13 can be configured, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like.

[0032] The operation input unit 15 is an input device that accepts information input by a user or the like. The operation input unit 15 can be configured with various input devices, such as operation keys such as hard keys or software keys, buttons, etc. The operation input unit 15 can be configured as a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 13. In this case, the input method of the touch panel can be a general method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a capacitance method.

[0033] The communication unit 17 has either a wireless (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) or wired interface, or both, for communicating with other devices (such as the terminal device 20 or a router (not shown)). The communication unit 17 can also function as an access point that can wirelessly connect to the terminal device 20 based on the connection settings of the main body of the multifunction peripheral 10. The communication unit 17 may also have an interface related to (short-range) wireless communication technology, such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near field communication), ZigBee (registered trademark), IrDA (Infrared Data Association), or wireless USB.

[0034] The image processing unit 18 includes an image forming unit 181 and an image input unit 183. The image forming unit 181 feeds paper from a paper feed tray (not shown), forms an image on the paper based on image data, and then discharges the paper to a paper discharge unit. The image forming unit 181 can be configured, for example, by a laser printer that employs an electrophotographic system.

[0035] The image input unit 183 generates image information by scanning an original. The image input unit 183 may be configured as a scanner device having an image sensor such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a contact image sensor (CIS), an automatic document feeder (ADF), or a flatbed on which an original is placed and read. The image input unit 213 is not particularly limited in configuration as long as it is capable of generating image information by reading a reflected light image from an original image with an image sensor. The image input unit 213 may also be configured as an interface capable of acquiring document information stored in a portable storage medium such as a universal serial bus (USB) memory, or image information included in a print job sent from the terminal device 20.

[0036] The storage unit 19 is one or more storage devices that store various programs and various data required for the operation of the multifunction device 10. The storage unit 19 can be configured with storage devices such as RAM (Random Access Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), and ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0037] In the first embodiment, the memory unit 19 stores a control program 191, a job control program 192, a connection setting program 193, a code image generation program 194, and a code image display control program 195, and reserves a setting information memory area 196, a code image memory area 197, and a job data memory area 198.

[0038] The control program 191 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 after the device is started up. The control unit 11 that reads the control program 191 functions as an OS and controls the driving of hardware such as the display unit 13, the operation input unit 15, the communication unit 17, and the image processing unit 18.

[0039] The job control program 192 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when executing a print job related to printing, copying, etc., or a transmission job related to sending image data (transmission data) via e-mail, SMB, FTP, etc. The control unit 11 that reads the job control program 192 changes the device mode to a job mode for executing each job and executes various jobs. When executing a job, the control unit 11 can display a job setting screen on the display unit 13 as an operation screen, as needed, which accepts selection of setting values ​​and functions required for executing the job from the user. The control unit 11 can execute the job based on the setting values ​​and functions accepted via the job setting screen.

[0040] The connection setting program 193 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when accepting connection settings for the main body of the multifunction device 10 from the user. After reading the connection setting program 193, the control unit 11 sets the connection settings for the main body of the multifunction device 10 to one of "wired connection only," "wired + AP mode," and "external AP mode" based on the settings made by the user. Here, "wired connection only" refers to a connection setting in which communication with other devices is performed only via a wired connection via a LAN cable or the like.

[0041] The "wired + AP mode" is a connection setting that, in addition to the wired connection described above, causes the main body of the multifunction peripheral 10 to function as an access point. When the main body of the multifunction peripheral 10 is caused to function as an access point, the control unit 11 reads out a code image generation program 194, which will be described later, and generates a code image as a first code image, which is an encoded version of connection information (such as the SSID for using the multifunction peripheral 10 as an access point, the name of the SSID, the encryption type, and the security key (password)) that is received from the user via a connection information input screen (not shown) or set as a default initial setting.

[0042] The "external AP mode" is a connection setting that causes an access point 30 other than the multifunction peripheral 10 to function as an (external) access point. When causing the access point 30 to function as an access point, the control unit 11 reads out a code image generation program 194, which will be described later, and generates a code image as a second code image that encodes connection information for connecting to the access point 30 (such as the SSID for making the access point 30 an access point, the name of the SSID, the encryption type, and the security key (password)).

[0043] Furthermore, the control unit 11 that reads the connection setting program 193 accepts from the user a connection setting (“connect to this device” or “connect to external device”) in the application related to the generation of the code image. The control unit 11 stores the connection setting accepted from the user and the above connection information in the setting information storage area 196.

[0044] The code image generation program 194 is a program that the control unit 11 reads out when generating a code image based on connection information. The control unit 11 that reads out the code image generation program 194 generates a code image by encoding the connection information, for example, with a one-dimensional code such as a barcode (e.g., EAN code, JAN code, Codbar, CODE128, etc.), a stacked two-dimensional code (e.g., PDF417, CODE49, etc.), a matrix two-dimensional code (e.g., Quick Response Code (QR Code (registered trademark)), Data Matrix, VeriCode, Aztec, etc.). In the following description, a Quick Response Code (QR Code (registered trademark)) will be used as an example of the code image. In the present disclosure, the control unit 11 generates a first code image including connection information for the terminal device 20 to connect to the access point of the multifunction peripheral 10, and a second code image including connection information for the terminal device 20 to connect to an access point other than the multifunction peripheral 10, regardless of whether the function of the multifunction peripheral 10 as an access point is enabled or disabled. The generation of these code images may be performed by an external device (not shown) such as a server.

[0045] The code image display control program 195 is a program that is read by the control unit 11 when controlling the display of the generated code image. After reading the code image display control program 195, the control unit 11 performs control to distinguishably display the first code image and the second code image according to the access point set as the connection destination of the terminal device 20. The distinguishable display of the first code image and the second code image will be described later.

[0046] The setting information storage area 196 is a storage area that stores various setting information for the multifunction peripheral 10 to operate as an image processing device, in addition to connection settings and connection information received from the user.

[0047] The code image storage area 197 is a storage area for storing the code image generated by the control unit 11 that reads out the code image generation program 194 .

[0048] The job data storage area 198 is a storage area that stores job data (e.g., scan data, etc.) generated by the execution of each job as deliverables. Note that the job data storage area 198 may store not only deliverables but also intermediates generated in the course of executing each job (e.g., image data before OCR processing, various image processing, and encryption processing). There are no restrictions on the data format or form of the job data stored in the job data storage area 198, as long as it can be saved as an intermediate or deliverable.

[0049] [1.3 Terminal Device 20] [1.3.1 Functional configuration of terminal device 20] Next, the functional configuration of the terminal device 20 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The terminal device 20 includes a control unit 21, a display unit 23, an operation input unit 25, a communication unit 27, a storage unit 29, and an imaging unit 31.

[0050] The control unit 21 controls the entire terminal device 20. The control unit 21 is configured by, for example, one or more arithmetic units (CPU (Central Processing Unit), SoC (System on a Chip), etc.). The control unit 21 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 29.

[0051] The display unit 23 is a display device that displays various information to the user, and can be configured, for example, by an LCD, an organic EL display, or the like.

[0052] The operation input unit 25 is an input device that accepts information input by a user, etc. The operation input unit 25 can be, for example, a touch panel that allows input via the display unit 23, or an input device such as a keyboard or a mouse.

[0053] The communication unit 27 has either a wireless (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) or wired interface, or both, for communicating with other devices (such as the multifunction peripheral 10 or the access point 30). Note that the communication unit 17 may also have an interface related to (short-range) wireless communication technology, such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near field communication), ZigBee (registered trademark), IrDA (Infrared Data Association), or wireless USB.

[0054] The storage unit 29 is one or more storage devices that store various programs and various data required for the operation of the terminal device 20. The storage unit 29 can be configured by a storage device such as a RAM, an HDD, an SSD, or a ROM.

[0055] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 29 stores a control program 291, an application program 292, a code image analysis program 293, and a connection program 294, and reserves a setting information storage area 295.

[0056] The control program 291 is a program that is read by the control unit 21 after the device is started up. The control unit 21 that reads the control program 291 functions as an OS and controls the driving of hardware such as the display unit 23, the operation input unit 25, the communication unit 27, and the imaging unit 31.

[0057] The application program 292 is a program that the control unit 21 reads in response to a start instruction from the user. The control unit 21 that reads the application program 292 provides specific functions according to the user's purpose, such as document creation, drawing, and internet browsing. The application program 292 according to the present disclosure may include a dedicated application program that can connect to the multifunction device 10 and remotely operate the multifunction device 10. The control unit 21 that reads the dedicated application program functions as a dedicated app and, by working in conjunction with the connection program 294, can connect to the multifunction device 10 via an access point set in the multifunction device 10 and operate the multifunction device 10. For example, the control unit 21 can obtain image information generated based on document scanning by the multifunction device 10 via wireless communication and store the image information in the storage unit 29.

[0058] The code image analysis program 293 is a program that is read by the control unit 21 when decoding the code image acquired by the imaging unit 31. After reading the code image analysis program 293, the control unit 21 analyzes connection information for connecting to the access point set in the multifunction peripheral 10 based on the decoding result of the code image.

[0059] The connection program 294 is a program that is read by the control unit 21 when establishing a wireless connection to an access point. The control unit 21 that has read the connection program 294 functions as a connection control unit, and establishes a wireless connection to the access point based on the connection information of the access point analyzed by the code image analysis program 293.

[0060] The setting information storage area 295 is a storage area for storing various setting information for operating the terminal device 20, in addition to connection information relating to the access point acquired based on the analysis result of the code image.

[0061] The imaging unit 31 is an imaging device, or so-called camera, that captures a code image displayed on the operation screen of the multifunction device 10. The imaging unit 31 may be composed of one or more imaging devices. The imaging unit 31 outputs the captured image as an image signal. The imaging unit 31 may also output one or more images as a continuous video.

[0062] [1.4 About Access Point 30] [1.4.1 Functional configuration of access point 30] The functional configuration of the access point 30 will not be explained here, as it can use a general Wi-Fi (registered trademark) access point, Wi-Fi (registered trademark) router, mobile Wi-Fi (registered trademark) router, etc. that are available on the market.

[0063] [1.5 Processing flow] Next, the flow of processing according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing from receiving a connection start instruction from the user of the terminal device 20 until the multifunction peripheral 10 performs identification display of a code image. Note that the processing described in Fig. 4 will be described on the premise that the control unit 11 of the multifunction peripheral 10 has read out the connection setting program 193, thereby setting in advance the connection settings and connection information related to the access point. Also, the processing described in Fig. 4 is processing that is executed by the control unit 11 of the multifunction peripheral 10 reading out the code image generation program 194, the code image display control program 195, etc.

[0064] First, the control unit 11 determines whether or not input of a connection start instruction has been received from the user of the terminal device 20 (step S100). Note that in the process of step S100, the control unit 11 can determine whether or not input of a connection start instruction has been received by determining whether or not the user has selected a connection start button or the like (not shown) displayed on the display unit 13 (operation input unit 15).

[0065] If it is determined that the input of a connection start instruction from the user has been accepted, the control unit 11 reads out connection information related to the access point from the setting information storage area 196 (step S100; Yes -> step S110). On the other hand, if it is determined that the input of a connection start instruction from the user has not been accepted, the control unit 11 waits until the connection instruction is accepted (step S100; No).

[0066] Next, the control unit 11 generates a code image by encoding the read connection information (step S120).

[0067] Then, the control unit 11 performs a discrimination display determination for the generated code image (step S130). Note that the process for discriminating display for the code image in step S130 will be described in the next drawing.

[0068] The control unit 11 determines whether the code image to be identified has been determined based on the identification determination in step S130 (step S140). If it is determined that the code image to be identified has not been determined, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S130 (step S140; No → step S130).

[0069] On the other hand, if it is determined that the code image to be identifiably displayed has been decided, the control unit 11 identifiably displays the decided code image, and ends the process (step S140; Yes→step S150).

[0070] Next, the process for determining whether to display an identifiable code image in step S130 of Fig. 4 will be described using the flowchart in Fig. 5. In the flowchart in Fig. 5, a code image that has conventionally been the subject of display on the error screen (W102) due to a discrepancy in settings between the connection settings (main unit) and the connection settings (application) is referred to as an invalid code image, and a code image that has no discrepancy in settings between the connection settings (main unit) and the connection settings (application) and is not the subject of display on the error screen (W102) is referred to as a valid code image.

[0071] The control unit 11 according to the present disclosure controls the display of the invalid code image to be displayed on the error screen (W102) on the same screen as the valid code image that is considered valid. In this case, the control unit 11 controls the display so that the valid code image and the invalid code image can be distinguished from each other.

[0072] When the process of step S130 starts, the control unit 11 determines whether the connection setting (application) is set to either "Main unit connection" or "External AP connection" (step S1310). If it is determined that the connection setting (application) is set to "Main unit connection", the control unit 11 determines whether the connection setting (main unit) is set to "Wired connection only" (step S1310 "Main unit connection" → step S1312).

[0073] If it is determined that the connection setting (main unit) is set to "wired connection only," the control unit 11 determines that the first code image containing connection information for the terminal device 20 to connect to the access point of the multifunction device 10 is an invalid code image, and that the second code image containing connection information for the terminal device 20 to connect to an access point other than the multifunction device 10 is a valid code image, and terminates the processing (step S1312; Yes → step S1314).

[0074] On the other hand, if it is determined that the connection setting (main unit) is not set to "wired connection only," the control unit 11 determines whether the connection setting (main unit) is set to "wired connection + AP mode" (step S1312; No → step S1316).

[0075] If it is determined that the connection setting (main unit) is set to "wired connection + AP mode", the control unit 11 determines that the first code image is a valid code image and the second code image is an invalid code image, and terminates the processing (step S1316; Yes → step S1318).

[0076] On the other hand, if it is determined that the connection setting (main unit) is not set to "wired connection + AP mode", the control unit 11 determines that the connection setting (main unit) is "external AP mode" (step S1316; No → step S1320). Then, the control unit 11 determines that the first code image is an invalid code image and the second code image is a valid code image, and ends the process (step S1322).

[0077] Meanwhile, if it is determined that the connection setting (application) is set as "external AP connection," the control unit 11 determines whether the connection setting (main unit) is set to "wired connection only" (step S1310 "external AP connection" → step S1324).

[0078] If it is determined that the connection setting (main unit) is set to "wired connection only," the control unit 11 determines that the first code image is an invalid code image and the second code image is a valid code image, and terminates the processing (step S1324; Yes → step S1326).

[0079] On the other hand, if it is determined that the connection setting (main unit) is not set to "wired connection only," the control unit 11 determines whether the connection setting (main unit) is set to "wired connection + AP mode" (step S1324; No → step S1328).

[0080] If it is determined that the connection setting (main unit) is set to "wired connection + AP mode", the control unit 11 determines that the first code image is an invalid code image and the second code image is a valid code image, and terminates the processing (step S1328; Yes → step S1330).

[0081] On the other hand, if it is determined that the connection setting (main unit) is not set to "wired connection + AP mode", the control unit 11 determines that the connection setting (main unit) is "external AP mode" (step S1328; No -> step S1332). Then, the control unit 11 determines that the first code image is an invalid code image and the second code image is a valid code image, and ends the process (step S1334). Note that, if it is determined in step S1310 that the connection setting (application) is set to "external AP connection", the control unit 11 may determine that the first code image is an invalid code image and the second code image is a valid code image, and may simplify the process by, for example, omitting the processes from step S1324 onwards.

[0082] [1.6 Example of operation] Next, a description will be given of an example of operation according to the first embodiment. Fig. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data format of a code image (QR Code (registered trademark)) generated as the first code image or the second code image.

[0083] 6 shows an example in which parameters (keys and key values) written in JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) format are embedded in a code image. In the first embodiment, the first code image and the second code image are displayed on the same screen, but the data formats of the parameters included in these code images are the same, and the key values ​​of the parameters (keys: "name", "ssid", "type" (encryption type)", "password", etc.) for connecting to the set access point are different between the first code image (access point of the multifunction peripheral 10) and the second code image (external access point such as access point 30).

[0084] Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of the operation screen W200 that displays the first code image and the second code image. Fig. 7 shows an example of an operation corresponding to the process of distinguishably displaying the code images in step S150 in Fig. 4. The operation screen W200 is also a reading screen on which the user reads the code images via the imaging unit 31 of the terminal device 20.

[0085] The operation screen W200 includes a notification urging the user to scan the code screen with the terminal device 20, "Please scan this barcode using a dedicated app on your mobile terminal," a close button B10, a valid code image display area R10, and an invalid code image display area R12.

[0086] The close button B10 is a button that accepts an instruction to end the display of the operation screen W200.

[0087] The valid code image display area R10 provided on the left side of the operation screen W200 is a display area that displays the first code image or the second code image determined to be a valid code image by the code image identification display determination in step S130 (FIG. 5) in FIG. 4. For example, if the first code image is determined to be a valid code image as a code image displaying access point connection information in step S1318 in FIG. 5, the control unit 11 displays the first code image as a valid code image Q12 in the valid code image display area R10. At this time, a frame image F10 that forms a display frame for the valid code image Q12 is displayed as an additional image on the valid code image Q12. The valid code image display area R10 may also be provided with a connection information display area R101 that displays connection information included in the code image (e.g., destination: aaa Wireless LAN, SSID: bbb-ccc air, encryption type: WPA2 Personal).

[0088] The invalid code image display area R12 provided on the right side of the operation screen W200 is a display area that displays the first code image or the second code image that has been determined to be an invalid code image by the code image identification display determination in step S130 (FIG. 5) in FIG. 4. For example, if the second code image that displays the connection information of the access point is determined to be an invalid code image in step S1318 in FIG. 5, the control unit 11 displays the second code image as an invalid code image Q14 in the invalid code image display area R12. At this time, a frame image F12 that forms a display frame for the invalid code image Q14 is displayed as an additional image on the invalid code image Q14.

[0089] 7, in the first embodiment, the display size of the code image is constant, and a valid code image Q12 (e.g., a first code image) and an invalid code image Q14 (e.g., a second code image) are displayed so as to be distinguishable based on the display size of the frame image forming the display frame of the code image. The user can easily distinguish between a valid code image and an invalid code image by visually checking the display size of the frame images F10, F12 of the code images in addition to the valid code image display area R10 (left side) or the invalid code image display area R12 (right side) arranged at different positions (display positions) on the operation screen W200.

[0090] Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of another operation screen W202 that displays a first code image and a second code image. Fig. 8 shows an example in which a specific background color or shading is applied to the frame image F14 of the invalid code image Q14, making it easy to distinguish from the valid code image Q12. Note that Fig. 8 shows an example in which the display sizes of the frame images F10 and F14 are the same, but as in Fig. 7, a size relationship may be established between the display sizes of the frame images F10 and F14.

[0091] Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of another operation screen W204 that displays a first code image and a second code image. Fig. 9 shows an example in which the shape of the frame image F16 of the invalid code image Q14 is different (for example, round) from the shape of the frame image F10 related to the valid code image Q12. The shape of the frame image F16 may be any shape as long as it can be distinguished from the frame image F10. For example, the shape of the frame image F16 may be a specific polygonal shape other than a rectangle, such as a triangle, a pentagon, or a star, and the frame line may be represented by a specific line type, such as a dotted line or a dashed line.

[0092] Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of another operation screen W206 that displays a first code image and a second code image. Fig. 10 shows an example in which the frame image F18 of the invalid code image Q14 is displayed in a blinking manner. In this case, it is also possible to make the invalid code image Q14 blink in conjunction with the blinking display of the frame image F18. There are no particular restrictions on the blinking cycle or blinking color of the frame image F18, but display control may be performed to change the blinking cycle or blinking color during display.

[0093] In Figures 7 to 10, examples have been described in which valid code images and invalid code images are distinguishably displayed based on the display form of frame images F12 to F18 attached to invalid code image Q14. However, the valid code image and invalid code image may be distinguished by changing the display form of frame image F10 attached to valid code image Q12, or the display form of the frame images attached to both code images may be changed.

[0094] 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of a connection result screen when the first code image or the second code image determined as an invalid code image is read by the terminal device 20. In the present disclosure, even when the first code image or the second code image determined as an invalid code image is read, the control unit 21 of the terminal device 20 attempts wireless connection to the analyzed access point based on the decoding result (analysis result) of the code image.

[0095] In this case, the wireless connection fails, so the control unit 21 displays a connection result screen W300, as shown in FIG. 11(a), on the display unit 23. The connection result screen W300 includes a notification display area M10 that notifies the user that the wireless connection to the access point based on the read code image has failed. The notification display area M10 includes a notification that reads, "Failed to connect to the following access point. Please check the device settings," connection information (ssid: bbb-ccc air, name: dddd) for the access point to which the wireless connection was attempted, and an OK button B12.

[0096] The OK button B12 is a button that accepts the selection of a confirmation instruction that the wireless connection to the access point indicated in the connection information has failed. When the user selects the OK button B12, the control unit 21 ends the display of the connection result screen W300.

[0097] Even if the wireless connection to the access point fails, it is possible to save (register) the connection information for that access point. Fig. 11(b) shows an example of the display configuration of the connection result screen W302 that can store the decrypted connection information regardless of whether the connection to the access point based on the first code image or the second code image is successful or not.

[0098] The connection result screen W302 includes a notification display area M12 that notifies the user that a wireless connection to an access point based on the scanned code image has failed. The notification display area M12 includes a notification that reads, "Failed to connect to the following access point. Do you want to save the following connection information?", the connection information of the access point to be saved (ssid: bbb-ccc air, name: dddd), a Yes button B14, and a No button B16.

[0099] The Yes button B14 is a button that accepts an instruction to save the connection information of the access point to be saved. When the user selects the Yes button B14, the control unit 21 saves (stores) the connection information in the setting information storage area 295 of the storage unit 29. The No button B16 is a button that accepts an instruction to discard the connection information of the access point to be saved. When the user selects the No button B16, the control unit 21 discards the connection information and ends the process.

[0100] As described above, according to the first embodiment, regardless of whether the function of the multifunction device as an access point is enabled or disabled, it is possible to display on the display unit a first code image containing connection information for the terminal device to connect to the multifunction device's access point, and a second code image containing connection information for the terminal device to connect to an access point other than the multifunction device.Therefore, even if there is a discrepancy between the connection settings (main unit) and the connection settings (app) and the wireless connection to the access point fails, it is possible to save (register) the connection information for the access point without the administrator having to check and reconfigure the main unit settings of the multifunction device, thereby improving user operability in obtaining connection information for connecting to an access point.

[0101] [2 Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, a valid code image Q12 (e.g., a first code image) and an invalid code image Q14 (e.g., a second code image) are displayed in a distinguishable manner based on the display format of a frame image forming the display frame of the code image. In the second embodiment, the valid code image Q12 and the invalid code image Q16 are displayed in a distinguishable manner based on the display sizes of the valid code image Q12 and the invalid code image Q16.

[0102] The functional configurations and processing flow of the multifunction peripheral 10, terminal device 20, and access point 30 according to the second embodiment can be the same as those of the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0103] 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display configuration of an operation screen W400 that displays a first code image and a second code image according to the second embodiment. Note that the same components as those in the operation screen W200 and the like illustrated in FIG. 7 and the like of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0104] 12, an invalid code image Q16 having a smaller display size than the valid code image Q12 displayed in the valid code image display area R10 is identifiably displayed in the invalid code image display area R14 provided on the right side of the operation screen W400 according to the second embodiment. In this case, the invalid code image Q16 may be displayed in a different color from the valid code image Q12.

[0105] As described above, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, it is effective when there is a limit to the display size of the operation screen or when it is desired to simplify the operation screen.

[0106] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. In other words, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified within the scope of the gist of the present disclosure are also included in the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0107] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiments are described separately for the sake of convenience, they may of course be combined and executed within the scope of technical feasibility.

[0108] In addition, the programs that run on each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU, etc. (programs that make a computer function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. Information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and then stored in various storage devices such as ROMs and HDDs, and is read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0109] Here, the computer-readable non-transitory recording medium on which the program is recorded in the information processing device may be any of semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc, etc.)), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). In this case, the program recorded on the recording medium is read by the computer of the information processing device and executed by the computer, thereby realizing not only the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments, but also the functions of the present disclosure, which are realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc., based on instructions from the program.

[0110] Furthermore, when distributing the program on the market, the program can be stored in a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is also included in the present disclosure.

[0111] Additionally, each functional block or feature of the device used in the above-described embodiments may be implemented or performed by an electrical circuit, such as an integrated circuit or multiple integrated circuits. The electrical circuit designed to realize the functions described herein may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or a combination thereof. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, a conventional processor, a controller, a microcontroller, or a state machine. The electrical circuit may be composed of digital circuits or analog circuits. Furthermore, as advances in semiconductor technology emerge, one or more aspects of the present disclosure may utilize new integrated circuits based on such technology. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1 System 10 Multifunction device 11 Control section 13 Display section 15 Operation input section 17 Communications Department 18 Image processing section 181 Image forming unit 183 Image Input Unit 19 Memory section 191 Control Program 192 Job Control Program 193 Connection Setting Program 194 Code Image Generator 195 Code image display control program 196 Setting information storage area 197 Code image storage area 198 Job data storage area 20 Terminal equipment 21 Control Unit 23 Display section 25 Operation input section 27 Communications Department 29 Memory section 291 Control Program 292 Application Programs 293 Code Image Analysis Program 294 Connection Program 295 Setting information storage area 30 access points

Claims

1. An image processing device that generates connection information for connecting to an access point as a code image that can be read by a terminal device, a display unit that displays the generated code image; a control unit that controls display of the code image on the display unit, The control unit An image processing device characterized in that the display unit displays a first code image containing connection information for the terminal device to connect to the access point of the image processing device, and a second code image containing connection information for the terminal device to connect to an access point other than the image processing device, regardless of whether the function of the image processing device as an access point is enabled or disabled.

2. The control unit 2. The image processing device according to claim 1, wherein the first code image and the second code image are displayed in a distinguishable manner depending on the access point set as the connection destination of the terminal device.

3. An additional image is added to the code image and displayed, 3. The image processing device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit displays the first code image and the second code image in a distinguishable manner based on the display mode of the additional image.

4. The additional image is a frame image that forms a display frame of the code image, The control unit 4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the additional image is displayed in a manner that the first code image and the second code image can be distinguished based on the size of the frame image.

5. The control unit When the connection destination of the terminal device is set to the access point of the image processing device, The frame image added to the first code image is displayed larger than the frame image added to the second code image; When the connection destination of the terminal device is set to an access point other than the image processing device, 5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the frame image added to the second code image is displayed larger than the frame image added to the first code image.

6. The control unit 5. The image processing device according to claim 4, wherein the frame image added to the first code image and the frame image added to the second code image are displayed at different display positions.

7. A system including an image processing device and a terminal device connectable to the image processing device via an access point, The image processing device includes: a generating unit that generates connection information for connecting to the access point as a code image; a display unit that displays the generated code image; a control unit that controls display of the code image on the display unit, The control unit displaying, on the display unit, a first code image including connection information for the terminal device to connect to the access point of the image processing device and a second code image including connection information for the terminal device to connect to an access point other than the image processing device, regardless of whether a function of the image processing device as the access point is enabled or disabled; The terminal device a connection control unit that reads the code image displayed on the display unit and connects to the access point based on the decoded connection information, The connection control unit The system stores the decoded connection information regardless of whether a connection to the access point based on the first code image or the second code image is successful or not.

8. generating connection information for connecting to the access point as a code image that can be read by the terminal device; Displaying the generated code image; A control method for controlling display of the code image, A control method characterized by displaying a first code image containing connection information for the terminal device to connect to the access point of the image processing device, and a second code image containing connection information for the terminal device to connect to an access point other than the image processing device, regardless of whether the function of the image processing device as an access point is enabled or disabled.

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