Communication device, control method thereof, program, and storage medium

Abstract

A mechanism is provided that enables selection of an appropriate parameter sharing method according to the environment of the communication device. [Solution] The communication device is characterized by having a communication means capable of performing wireless communication between the communication device and an external device via wireless LAN without going through an external access point, a selection means for selecting from a plurality of methods in response to user operation a method for sharing parameters used for connecting via the wireless communication between the communication device and the external device, and a control means for controlling the execution of processing for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device using the method selected by the selection means.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a communication device, a control method thereof, a program, and a storage medium. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the increase in the amount of data being transmitted has led to the development of communication technologies such as wireless local area networks (WLANs). The IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers) 802.11 standard series is known as the main communication standard for WLANs. The IEEE 802.11 standard series includes IEEE 802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax standards. For example, the latest standard, IEEE 802.11ax, uses Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) to achieve a high peak throughput of up to 9.6 gigabits per second (Gbps) and improve communication speeds under congested conditions. OFDMA is an abbreviation for Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access.

[0003] Meanwhile, the Wi-Fi Alliance has developed a program for certifying wireless LAN devices. For example, it has developed the WFD standard, which defines procedures for establishing a communication link between wireless LAN stations (STAs) by exchanging (sharing) communication parameters between them without going through an access point (AP). WFD is an abbreviation for Wi-Fi Direct (registered trademark).

[0004] The Wi-Fi Aware standard has also been established, which is a standard for searching for services provided by devices. For example, Patent Document 1 describes detecting communication terminals using the provisions of the Wi-Fi Aware standard. Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses sharing parameters by reading a QR code (registered trademark) containing connection information, thereby establishing a wireless infrastructure connection. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-201427 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-180036 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In a given WFD standard, there may be multiple parameter sharing methods required for connecting devices. However, there are various environments in which communication devices are used, and in some cases it may be desirable to use a parameter sharing method that is more secure or that takes into account more convenience.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that enables selection of an appropriate parameter sharing method according to the environment of a communication device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, the communication device of the present invention is a communication device characterized by having a communication means capable of performing wireless communication between the communication device and an external device via wireless LAN without going through an external access point, a selection means for selecting a method for sharing parameters used for connecting via the wireless communication between the communication device and the external device from among a plurality of methods in accordance with user operation, and a control means for controlling the execution of processing for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device using the method selected by the selection means. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to select an appropriate parameter sharing method according to the environment of the communication device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an MFP. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an operation display unit of an MFP. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a mobile terminal device. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an access point. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a connection process according to the WFD standard. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a connection process according to the WFD standard. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a user interface screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a user interface screen. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process for determining a parameter sharing method. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process for determining a parameter sharing method. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process for determining a parameter sharing method. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing a network setup mode process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0012] (System Configuration) FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a system according to this embodiment. In one example, this system is a wireless communication system in which a plurality of communication devices can communicate with each other wirelessly. In the example of FIG. 1, the communication devices include a mobile terminal device 104, an MFP 100, an AP 101 which is an access point, a DHCP server 103, a DNS server 105, and a network 110. The mobile terminal device 104 is a device having a wireless communication function such as a wireless LAN. Note that, hereinafter, wireless LAN may be referred to as WLAN. The mobile terminal device 104 may be a personal information terminal such as a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a mobile phone (smartphone), a digital camera, a personal computer, etc.

[0013] The MFP 100 is a printing device having a printing function, and may also have a reading function (scanner), a fax function, and a telephone function. The MFP 100 of this embodiment has a communication function that enables wireless communication with a mobile terminal device 104. Although the present embodiment describes a case in which the MFP 100 is used as an example, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a scanner device, a projector, a mobile terminal, a smartphone, a notebook PC, a tablet terminal, a PDA, a digital camera, a music playback device, a television, a smart speaker, and the like, each having a communication function, may be used instead of the MFP 100. Note that MFP is an acronym for Multi Function Peripheral.

[0014] The AP 101 is provided separately (externally) from the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100, and operates as a WLAN base station device. A communication device having a WLAN communication function can communicate in WLAN infrastructure mode via the AP 101. Note that hereinafter, an access point may be referred to as an "AP." Furthermore, infrastructure mode may be referred to as "wireless infrastructure mode." The AP 101 performs wireless communication with communication devices that have been authorized (authenticated) to connect to the AP 101, and relays wireless communication between the communication devices and other communication devices. The AP 101 may also be connected to, for example, a wired communication network, and relay communication between a communication device connected to the wired communication network and another communication device wirelessly connected to the AP 101.

[0015] DHCP server 103 connects to MFP 100 via AP 101 and network 110, and provides services to MFP 100 by responding to requests from MFP 100. Note that, although the configuration in FIG. 1 has been described in which DHCP server 103 is connected as a device separate from AP 101, a configuration in which AP 101 has a DHCP server function may also be used. DNS server 105 is connected to MFP 100 and mobile terminal device 104 via AP 101 and network 110, and provides name resolution services by responding to requests from MFP 100 and mobile terminal device 104. Here, network 110 may be the so-called Internet, or it may be a closed network within a company or a mobile phone network.

[0016] (MFP external configuration) FIG. 2(a) shows an example of the external configuration of MFP 100. MFP 100 has, for example, a platen 201, a platen cover 202, a print paper insertion slot 203, a print paper ejection slot 204, and an operation display unit 205. Platen 201 is a stand on which a document to be read is placed. Platen cover 202 is a cover that holds down the document placed on platen 201 and prevents light from a light source that illuminates the document during reading from leaking to the outside. Print paper insertion slot 203 is an insertion slot that can accept paper of various sizes. Print paper ejection slot 204 is an ejection slot through which paper that has been printed is ejected. Paper that has been placed in print paper insertion slot 203 is transported one sheet at a time to the printing unit, where it is printed and then ejected from print paper ejection slot 204. The operation display unit 205 includes keys such as character input keys, cursor keys, a confirm key, and a cancel key, as well as an LED and an LCD, and is configured to be able to accept user operations for activating various MFP functions and for various settings. The operation display unit 205 may also include a touch panel display. The MFP 100 has a wireless communication function using WLAN, and includes a wireless communication antenna 206 for this wireless communication, although this does not necessarily need to be visible from the exterior. Like the mobile terminal device 104, the MFP 100 can also perform wireless communication using WLAN in the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz frequency bands.

[0017] (MFP configuration) FIG. 2(b) shows an example configuration of MFP 100. MFP 100 includes a main board 211 that performs main control of the device itself and a wireless unit 226, which is a communication module that performs WLAN communication using at least one common antenna. MFP 100 also includes, for example, a modem 229 for performing wired communication. Main board 211 includes, for example, a CPU 212 (central processing unit), ROM 213, RAM 214, nonvolatile memory 215, image memory 216, read control unit 217, data conversion unit 218, reading unit 219, and encoding / decoding processing unit 221. Main board 211 also includes, for example, a printing unit 222, a paper feed unit 223, a print control unit 224, and an operation display unit 220. These functional units within main board 211 are connected to each other via a system bus 230 managed by CPU 212. The main board 211 and the wireless unit 226 are connected via, for example, a dedicated bus 225 , and the main board 211 and the modem 229 are connected via, for example, a bus 228 .

[0018] The CPU 212 is a system control unit including at least one processor, and controls the entire MFP 100. In one example, the processing of the MFP 100 described below is realized by the CPU 212 executing programs stored in the ROM 213. Note that dedicated hardware for each process may be provided. The ROM 213 stores control programs such as the control programs and embedded OS programs executed by the CPU 212. In this embodiment, the CPU 212 executes the control programs stored in the ROM 213 under the management of the embedded OS also stored in the ROM 213, thereby performing software control such as scheduling and task switching.

[0019] The RAM 214 is configured with an SRAM or the like. The RAM 214 stores data such as program control variables, setting values ​​registered by the user, and management data for the MFP 100. The RAM 214 can also be used as a buffer for various types of work. The non-volatile memory 215 is configured with a memory such as a flash memory, and continues to store data even when the power to the MFP 100 is turned off. The image memory 216 is configured with a memory such as a DRAM. The image memory 216 accumulates image data received via the wireless unit 226, image data processed by the encoding / decoding processing unit 221, and the like. Note that the memory configuration of the MFP 100 is not limited to the configuration described above. The data conversion unit 218 analyzes data in various formats and converts image data into print data, etc.

[0020] The reading control unit 217 controls the reading unit 219 (for example, a CIS (contact image sensor)) to optically read the document placed on the document table 201. The reading control unit 217 converts the image obtained by optically reading the document into electrical image data (image signals) and outputs the converted data. At this time, the reading control unit 217 may output the image data after performing various image processes such as binarization and halftoning.

[0021] The operation display unit 220 is the operation display unit 205 described with reference to FIG. 2(a), and performs display on a display based on display control by the CPU 212, generation of a signal in response to reception of a user operation, and the like.

[0022] The encoding / decoding processor 221 performs encoding and decoding processes on image data (JPEG, PNG, etc.) handled by the MFP 100, as well as scaling processes.

[0023] The paper feed unit 223 holds paper for printing. The paper feed unit 223 can supply the set paper under the control of the print control unit 224. The paper feed unit 223 may include multiple paper feed units in order to hold multiple types of paper in one device, and under the control of the print control unit 224, it can control which paper feed unit to use to feed paper.

[0024] The print control unit 224 performs various image processing such as smoothing, print density correction, and color correction on the image data to be printed, and outputs the processed image data to the print unit 222. The print unit 222 is configured to be able to perform, for example, inkjet printing, and ejects ink supplied from an ink tank from a print head to record an image on a recording medium such as paper. Note that the print unit 222 may also be configured to be able to perform other printing processes such as electrophotography. The print control unit 224 may also periodically read information from the print unit 222 and update status information stored in RAM 214, including the remaining amount of ink in the ink tank and the state of the print head.

[0025] The wireless unit 226 is a unit capable of providing WLAN communication functions, and can provide functions similar to those of a combination of the WLAN unit 429 of the mobile terminal device 104, for example. That is, the wireless unit 226 converts data into packets in accordance with the WLAN standard and transmits the packets to other devices, and also restores packets from other external devices to the original data and outputs the data to the CPU 212. The wireless unit 226 is capable of communication as a station conforming to the IEEE802.11 standard series. In particular, it is capable of communication as a station conforming to IEEE802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax. Hereinafter, the station may be referred to as an STA.

[0026] The wireless unit 226 is compatible with IEEE802.11ax, i.e., Wi-Fi 6 (trademark), and can perform processing compliant with IEEE802.11ax. In other words, the MFP 100 can operate (process) as either an STA compatible with (compliant with) OFDMA or as an STA compatible with (compliant with) TWT, or both. OFDMA stands for Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access. TWT stands for Target Wake Time. Support for TWT adjusts the timing of data communication from the master device to the STA. The wireless unit 226 (MFP 100) as an STA transitions its communication function to a sleep state when it does not need to wait for signal reception. This reduces power consumption. The wireless unit 226 also supports Wi-Fi 6E (trademark). In other words, communication in the 6 GHz band (5.925 GHz to 7.125 GHz) is also possible. The bands where Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) is performed, which exist in the 5 GHz band, do not exist in the 6 GHz band. Therefore, communication in the 6 GHz band does not experience communication interruptions due to DFS standby times, and smoother communication can be expected. Here, processing is performed in accordance with IEEE802.11ax, but the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 may operate in accordance with other standards in the IEEE802.11 series. For example, they may operate in accordance with IEEE802.11be or later standards.

[0027] The mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 are capable of P2P (WLAN) communication based on WFD, and the wireless unit 226 has a software access point (soft AP) function or a group owner function. That is, the wireless unit 226 can build a P2P communication network and determine the channel to be used for P2P communication. The WFD here is based on the standard established by the Wi-Fi Alliance. The wireless unit 226 can also operate as a WFD client.

[0028] (MFP operation display section) FIG. 3 schematically shows an example of a screen display on a display (touch panel display) included in the operation display unit 220 of the MFP 100. FIG. 3(a) is an example of a home screen that is displayed when the MFP 100 is powered on and no operations such as printing or scanning are being performed (idle state, standby state). FIG. 3(a) displays display items (menu items) corresponding to copy, scan, and cloud, respectively. Cloud is a menu item related to cloud functions that use Internet communication. By selecting any of the menu items through key operations or touch panel operations, the MFP 100 can begin executing the corresponding settings or functions. The MFP 100 can seamlessly display a screen different from that shown in FIG. 3(a) by accepting key operations or touch panel operations on the home screen of FIG. 3(a).

[0029] Figure 3(b) is a display example of another part of the home screen, which transitions from the state of Figure 3(a) by performing an operation (such as sliding left or right) to display another page of the home screen. Figure 3(b) displays display items (menu items) corresponding to communication settings, print, and photo. When one of these menu items is selected, the function corresponding to the selected menu item, i.e., the print function, photo function, or communication settings, is executed.

[0030] Figure 3(c) is an example of a communication settings menu screen that is displayed when communication settings are selected on the screen in Figure 3(b). The communication settings menu screen is a network settings screen that displays the following menu items (options): "Wireless LAN," "Wired LAN," "Wireless Direct," "Bluetooth," and "Common Settings." "Wireless LAN," "Wired LAN," and "Wireless Direct" are menu items for configuring LAN settings. These items allow users to configure wired connections, enable / disable wireless infrastructure mode, and enable / disable P2P modes such as WFD and soft AP mode. When the "Wireless LAN" item is selected and wireless LAN is enabled by user operation, wireless infrastructure mode is enabled. When the "Wireless Direct" item is selected and Wireless Direct is enabled by user operation, P2P (WLAN) mode is enabled. This screen also displays a common settings menu for each connection type. Furthermore, the user can configure settings such as the wireless LAN frequency band and frequency channel from this screen.

[0031] (External configuration of mobile terminal device) FIG. 4(a) is a diagram illustrating an example of the external configuration of the mobile terminal device 104. In this embodiment, as an example, the mobile terminal device 104 is a general-type smartphone. The mobile terminal device 104 includes, for example, a display unit 402, an operation unit 403, and a power key 404. The display unit 402 is, for example, a display including a liquid crystal display (LCD) type display mechanism. The display unit 402 may display information using, for example, an LED (light emitting diode). The mobile terminal device 104 may also have a function to output information by voice in addition to or instead of the display unit 402. The operation unit 403 includes hard keys such as keys and buttons, a touch panel, and the like for detecting user operations. In this example, the display unit 402 displays information and the operation unit 403 receives user operations using a common touch panel display, so the display unit 402 and the operation unit 403 are implemented by a single device. In this case, for example, button icons and a software keyboard are displayed using the display function of display unit 402, and the touch of the user on those locations is detected by the operation reception function of operation unit 403. Note that display unit 402 and operation unit 403 may be separated, and hardware for display and hardware for operation reception may be provided separately. Power key 404 is a hardware key for receiving a user operation to turn on or off the power of mobile terminal device 104.

[0032] The mobile terminal device 104 includes a WLAN unit 401 that provides WLAN communication functionality, although it does not necessarily need to be visible from the exterior. The WLAN unit 401 is configured to be able to perform data (packet) communication in a WLAN system that complies with, for example, the IEEE 802.11 standard series (IEEE 802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax, etc.). It is also capable of communication as an AP compatible with Wi-Fi Agile Multiband (trademark). However, this is not a limitation, and the WLAN unit 401 may also be capable of communication in a WLAN system that complies with other standards. In this example, the WLAN unit 401 is capable of communication in the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz frequency bands. It is also assumed that the WLAN unit 401 is capable of communication based on WFD, communication in soft AP mode, communication in wireless infrastructure mode, etc. Operation in these modes will be described later.

[0033] (Configuration of mobile terminal device) FIG. 4(b) shows an example of the configuration of the mobile terminal device 104. In one example, the mobile terminal device 104 includes a main board 411 that performs main control of the device itself and a WLAN unit 429 that performs WLAN communication. The main board 411 includes, for example, a CPU 412, a ROM 413, a RAM 414, an image memory 415, a data conversion unit 416, a telephone unit 417, a GPS 419, a camera unit 421, a non-volatile memory 422, a data storage unit 423, a speaker unit 424, and a power supply unit 425. Here, CPU is an acronym for Central Processing Unit, ROM is an acronym for Read Only Memory, RAM is an acronym for Random Access Memory, and GPS is an acronym for Global Positioning System. The mobile terminal device 104 also includes a display unit 420 and an operation unit 418. These functional units within the main board 411 are connected to each other via a system bus 628 managed by the CPU 412. Furthermore, the main board 411 and the WLAN unit 429 (the above-mentioned WLAN unit 401) are connected via a dedicated bus 426, for example.

[0034] The CPU 412 is a system control unit including at least one processor, and controls the entire mobile terminal device 104. In one example, the processing of the mobile terminal device 104 described below is realized by the CPU 412 executing a program stored in the ROM 413. Note that dedicated hardware for each process may be provided. The ROM 413 stores control programs, such as a control program and an embedded operating system (OS) program, executed by the CPU 412. In this embodiment, the CPU 412 executes each control program stored in the ROM 413 under the management of an embedded OS also stored in the ROM 413, thereby performing software control such as scheduling and task switching.

[0035] The RAM 414 is configured with a static RAM (SRAM) or the like. The RAM 414 stores data such as program control variables, setting values ​​registered by the user, and management data for the mobile terminal device 104. The RAM 414 can also be used as a buffer for various types of work. The image memory 415 is configured with a memory such as a dynamic RAM (DRAM). The image memory 415 temporarily stores image data received via the WLAN unit 429 and image data read from the data storage unit 423 for processing by the CPU 412. The nonvolatile memory 422 is configured with a memory such as a flash memory, and continues to store data even when the mobile terminal device 104 is powered off. Note that the memory configuration of the mobile terminal device 104 is not limited to the above configuration. For example, the image memory 415 and the RAM 414 may be shared, or data may be backed up using the data storage unit 423. In this embodiment, although a DRAM is given as an example of the image memory 415, other storage media such as a hard disk or nonvolatile memory may also be used.

[0036] The data conversion unit 416 analyzes data in various formats and performs data conversion such as color conversion and image conversion. The telephone unit 417 controls telephone lines and realizes telephone communication by processing audio data input and output via a speaker unit 424. The GPS 419 receives radio waves transmitted from satellites and acquires location information such as the current latitude and longitude of the mobile terminal device 104.

[0037] The camera unit 421 has the function of electronically recording and encoding an image input through a lens. Image data obtained by capturing an image with the camera unit 421 is stored in a data storage unit 423. The speaker unit 424 controls the input and output of audio for telephone functions, as well as other functions such as alarm notification. The power supply unit 425 is, for example, a portable battery, and controls the supply of power to the device. Power supply states include, for example, a dead battery state in which there is no remaining battery power, a power-off state in which the power key 404 is not pressed, a running state in which the device is normally running, and a power-saving state in which the device is running but is in power-saving mode.

[0038] The display unit 420 is the display unit 402 described with reference to Fig. 4(a), and performs various input operations and displays the operating status and status of the MFP 100 based on the control of the CPU 412. The operation unit 418 is the operation unit 403 described with reference to Fig. 4(a), and upon receiving a user operation, performs control such as generating an electrical signal corresponding to the operation and outputting it to the CPU 412.

[0039] The mobile terminal device 104 performs wireless communication using a WLAN unit 429 to perform data communication with other devices such as the MFP 100. The WLAN unit 429 converts data into packets and transmits the packets to other devices. The WLAN unit 429 also restores packets from other external devices to the original data and outputs the data to the CPU 412. The WLAN unit 429 is a unit for realizing communication compliant with the WLAN standards. The WLAN unit 429 can operate in parallel in at least two communication modes, including a wireless infrastructure mode and a P2P (WLAN) mode. Note that the frequency bands used in these communication modes may be limited by the functionality and performance of the hardware.

[0040] (Access point configuration) 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the AP 101 having a wireless LAN access point function. The AP 101 is configured to include a main board 510 that controls the AP 101, a wireless LAN unit 516, a wired LAN unit 518, and an operation button 520.

[0041] A microprocessor-type CPU 511 disposed on a main board 510 operates in accordance with a control program stored in a ROM-type program memory 513 connected via an internal bus 512 and the contents of a RAM-type data memory 514. The CPU 511 controls a wireless LAN unit 516 via a wireless LAN communication control unit 515 to perform wireless LAN communication with other communication terminal devices. The CPU 511 also controls a wired LAN unit 518 via a wired LAN communication control unit 517 to perform wired LAN communication with other communication terminal devices. The CPU 511 controls an operation unit control circuit 519 to accept operations from a user via operation buttons 520. The CPU 511 includes at least one processor.

[0042] The AP 101 also includes an interference wave detection unit 521 and a channel change unit 522. The interference wave detection unit 521 performs processing to detect interference waves when wireless communication is being performed in a band where DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection) is implemented. If an interference wave is detected when wireless communication is being performed in a band where DFS is implemented, the channel change unit 522 performs processing to change the channel to be used when it is necessary to immediately change to an available channel.

[0043] (P2P communication method) Next, we will outline the P2P (WLAN) communication method, which allows devices to communicate directly with each other wirelessly without going through an external access point. P2P (WLAN) communication can be realized using multiple methods. For example, a communication device can support multiple modes for P2P (WLAN) communication and selectively use one of the multiple modes to perform P2P communication (WLAN).

[0044] The following two P2P modes are envisioned:

[0045] Soft AP mode Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) mode A communication device capable of P2P communication may be configured to support at least one of these modes, but even a communication device capable of P2P communication does not have to support all of these modes and may be configured to support only some of them.

[0046] A communication device (e.g., the mobile terminal device 104) having a WFD communication function receives user operations via its operation unit, thereby invoking a (possibly dedicated) application for realizing the communication function. The communication device then displays a UI (user interface) screen provided by the application to prompt the user to perform an operation, and can execute WFD communication based on the received user operations.

[0047] ●Soft AP mode In the soft AP mode, a communication device (e.g., the mobile terminal device 104) operates as a client that requests various services. The other communication device (e.g., the MFP 100) operates as a soft AP that can execute the functions of a WLAN AP through software configuration. The commands and parameters exchanged when establishing a wireless connection between the client and the soft AP are sufficient if they are specified in the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard, and therefore will not be described here. The MFP 100 operating in the soft AP mode determines the frequency band and frequency channel as the master station. Therefore, the MFP 100 can select which frequency band to use (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or 6 GHz) and which frequency channel to use within that frequency band. The soft AP mode does not require negotiation to determine roles, and does not necessarily comply with the Wi-Fi Alliance WFD standard.

[0048] WFD mode In this embodiment, the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 support a function publicly known as Wi-Fi Direct. Wi-Fi Direct is a function that enables Wi-Fi Direct-compatible devices to establish their own Wi-Fi networks without requiring an Internet connection. Specifically, Wi-Fi Direct-compatible devices such as the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 can directly connect to each other even in an environment without an AP 101 or the like. The MFP 100 may be configured to permanently activate as a master station in WFD mode (Autonomous Group Owner). In this case, GO negotiation processing to determine the role is not required. In addition, in this case, the MFP 100 determines the frequency band and frequency channel as the master station. Therefore, the MFP 100 can select which frequency band to use from 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or 6 GHz, and which frequency channel to use within that frequency band. In addition, in WFD mode, a configuration may be adopted in which a negotiation (GO Negotiation) is performed to determine which device will operate as the group owner and which device will operate as a client.

[0049] (Wireless infrastructure mode) In wireless infrastructure mode, communication devices (e.g., mobile terminal device 104 and MFP 100) that communicate with each other are connected to an external AP (e.g., AP 101) that manages the network, and communication between the communication devices is performed via that AP. In other words, communication between the communication devices is performed via a network established by the external AP. When mobile terminal device 104 and MFP 100 each discover AP 101 and send a connection request to AP 101 to connect, communication between these communication devices in wireless infrastructure mode via AP 101 is possible. Note that multiple communication devices may be connected to separate APs. In this case, data transfer between APs enables communication between the communication devices. Commands and parameters transmitted and received during communication between each communication device via an access point may be those specified in the Wi-Fi standard, and therefore will not be described here. In this case, AP 101 determines the frequency band and frequency channel. Therefore, the AP 101 can select which frequency band to use from 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or 6 GHz, and which frequency channel to use within that frequency band.

[0050] The following describes the WFD standard, which includes a first standard method and a second standard method that is different from the first standard method. In other words, the WFD standard includes multiple methods with different standard versions. Here, the first standard method will be referred to as WFD R1 (Release 1), and the second standard method will be referred to as WFD R2 (Release 2). WFD R1 and WFD R2 have different methods for searching for devices and sharing parameters. Note that in this embodiment, parameter sharing includes sending and receiving (exchanging) parameters through communication between devices without user operation, and recognizing parameter information on each device through user operation, such as reading a QR code.

[0051] (First connection process according to the first standard method) 6 is a sequence diagram of the process of connecting the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 in accordance with the WFD standard. Here, the WFD R1 processing sequence is shown. The processes executed by each device in this sequence are realized by the CPU of each device reading various programs stored in memory such as ROM into RAM and executing them.

[0052] For example, the sequence processing starts when the mobile terminal device 104 and MFP 100 receive a WFD start instruction from the user. When the mobile terminal device 104 and MFP 100 receive a WFD start operation from the user, they search for a partner device by repeating the Listen state and the Search state. Before these states, there may be a period during which each channel is scanned. In the Listen state, for example, channel 1 in 2.4 GHz is selected and a Probe Request frame from another communication device is waited for. In the Search state, a Probe Request frame is sent while switching frequency channels (for example, channel 1, channel 6, channel 11) and a Probe Response frame is waited for.

[0053] In S601, the mobile terminal device 104 transmits a Probe Request frame to search for a WFD communication device. By transmitting the Probe Request frame, a partner device on the searched side is searched for. Here, it is assumed that the searching communication device is the mobile terminal device 104 and the partner device on the searched side is the MFP 100. The Probe Request frame has a WFD attribute (P2P IE), which identifies the target of the search as a WFD communication device.

[0054] In S602, upon receiving the Probe Request frame, the MFP 100 transmits a Probe Response frame. The mobile terminal device 104 detects the MFP 100, which is the communication destination of the WFD, by receiving the Probe Response frame transmitted by the MFP 100. The Probe Request frame and Probe Response frame include a P2P IE and may also include a Multi-Link element. The Multi-Link element may include communication parameters used for multi-link communication defined in the IEEE 802.11be standard. This enables multiple links to be established between communication devices with a single connection procedure. In this way, the WFD R1 can detect the presence of other communication devices using a first search process that uses Probe Request / Probe Response frames. The first search process described above is the search sequence for the WFD R1.

[0055] In S603, the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 perform GO negotiation processing. In the GO negotiation, the channel to be used in direct wireless communication may be determined. In the GO negotiation processing, the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 transmit or receive GO Negotiation Request / GO Negotiation Response frames including an intent value indicating the degree to which they want to become the GO. The roles of P2P group owner (GO) and P2P client are determined by the GO Negotiation Request / GO Negotiation Response frames. The MFP 100 may also be configured to permanently start up as a master station (GO) in WFD mode (Autonomous Group Owner). In this case, the GO negotiation processing to determine the role is unnecessary. The MFP 100 may set its own intent value to the maximum of 15, so that it executes the GO negotiation processing but always operates as the GO. In this case, the MFP 100, as the master station, determines the frequency band and frequency channel to be used in direct wireless communication. Therefore, the MFP 100 can select whether to use the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency band, and which frequency channel to use within that frequency band.

[0056] In S604, the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 share communication parameters through Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) processing. The communication parameters may include parameters used in wireless communication, such as a Service Set Identifier (SSID), encryption method, encryption key, authentication method, AKM, BSSID, and MAC address. AKM is an abbreviation for Authentication and Key Management. AKM indicates an authentication protocol and key exchange algorithm used in wireless communication. For example, if the AKM is "SAE," the communication parameters may include a password for connecting to an AP or GO compatible with Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) 3. If the AKM is "psk," the communication parameters may include a Pre Shared Key (PSK) / passphrase for connecting to an AP or GO compatible with WPA2. If the AKM is "1X," the communication parameters may include an ID, password, public key, and the like for connecting to an AP compatible with WPA-Enterprise. The password and PSK / passphrase are encryption keys used in authentication and key exchange based on WPA or IEEE 802.11. The process by WPS in S604 is a sequence for sharing communication parameters of WFD R1. In addition, from the process in S604 onwards, the channel used for communication may be changed from the channel used in S601 to S603.

[0057] In S605, when it is determined that the MFP 100 itself will operate as a GO, the MFP 100 starts transmitting a Beacon frame. The Beacon frame may include communication parameters for communicating with the MFP 100. The Beacon frame may also include information elements (IEs) and attributes defined in the WFD standard. This allows communication devices other than the mobile terminal device 104 to detect the presence of the MFP 100 and establish a direct wireless communication connection with the MFP 100. For example, other communication devices may detect the presence of the MFP 100 by receiving a Beacon frame including information defined in the WFD standard.

[0058] In S606, the mobile terminal device 104 transmits a Probe Request frame to execute a connection procedure with the MFP 100. In S607, upon receiving the Probe Request frame, the MFP 100 transmits a Probe Response frame.

[0059] In S608, the mobile terminal device 104 transmits an authentication frame. In S609, upon receiving the authentication frame, the MFP 100 transmits the authentication frame.

[0060] In S610, upon receiving the Authentication frame, the mobile terminal device 104 transmits an Association Request frame. In S611, upon receiving the Association Request frame, the MFP 100 transmits an Association Response frame.

[0061] In S612, the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 execute a 4-way handshake.

[0062] In the first standard method, a connection is established between the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 by executing the connection procedure described above. Although not shown in the above sequence, the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 may transmit or receive Provision Discovery Request / Provision Discovery Response frames. The above-described processing of the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 may be reversed.

[0063] (Second connection process using the second standard method) 7 is a sequence diagram of the process of connecting the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 in accordance with the WFD standard. Here, the WFD R2 processing sequence is shown. The processes executed by each device in this sequence are realized by the CPU of each device reading various programs stored in memory such as ROM into RAM and executing them.

[0064] For example, the sequence processing starts when the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 receive a WFD start instruction from a user. In the WFD R2 search sequence, a second search process is performed. An example of a search procedure using the second search process is shown. In this search procedure, each of the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 performs processing based on whether the device is a service providing communication device or a service requesting communication device, and detects other communication devices. A service providing communication device may be called a publisher, listener, advertiser, etc. Furthermore, a service requesting communication device may be called a subscriber, searcher, seeker, etc. For example, a service requesting communication device may transmit a frame to detect other communication devices. Furthermore, a service providing communication device may receive and respond to frames transmitted by other communication devices. The role assigned to a communication device may be determined by a higher layer (such as a service layer).

[0065] 7 illustrates an example in which the mobile terminal device 104 operates as a service requesting communication device, and the MFP 100 operates as a service providing communication device. For example, the mobile terminal device 104 intermittently performs a detection operation and transmits frames for detecting other communication devices. The second search process may use, for example, the mechanism of the Wi-Fi Aware standard established by the Wi-Fi Alliance. In other words, the frames communicated in the second search process may be frames defined in the Wi-Fi Aware standard. Furthermore, other service search protocols and methods may be used in the second search process, not limited to the Wi-Fi Aware standard.

[0066] In S701, the mobile terminal device 104 transmits a Service Discovery frame to search for a WFD communication device. Here, it is assumed that the Service Discovery is transmitted on channel 6 of 2.4 GHz. By transmitting the Service Discovery frame, it searches for a partner device on the searched side. Here, it is assumed that the searching communication device is the mobile terminal device 104, and the partner device on the searched side is the MFP 100. The Service Discovery frame has a WFD attribute, which identifies the target of the search as a WFD communication device.

[0067] In S702, upon receiving the Service Discovery frame, the MFP 100 transmits the Service Discovery frame. The Service Discovery frame transmitted here is called an SDF Follow up. By receiving the Service Discovery frame, the mobile terminal device 104 detects the MFP 100, which is the WFD communication partner. The second search process described above is the search sequence for WFD R2. Because the first search process for WFD R1 and the second search process for WFD R2 use different methods, a communication device that supports only WFD R1 cannot be searched for using the WFD R2 method. Conversely, a communication device that supports only WFD R2 cannot be searched for using the WFD R1 method.

[0068] In S703, the mobile terminal device 104 transmits a request using a Bootstrapping Request frame. This request is for a sharing method for sharing communication parameters. The mobile terminal device 104 can use this frame to notify the MFP 100 of a sharing method that the mobile terminal device 104 can execute, from among sharing methods for communication parameters that use, for example, a button method (approval operation method), a PIN code, a passphrase, a QR code, or a Near Field Communication (NFC) tag. In this embodiment, a QR code is described as an example of a two-dimensional code image. For example, if the mobile terminal device 104 can execute a sharing method that uses a QR code, the mobile terminal device 104 can indicate at least one of whether the mobile terminal device 104 can display or read a QR code. Furthermore, if the mobile terminal device 104 can execute a sharing method that uses a passphrase, the mobile terminal device 104 can indicate whether it can use a character string, a numeric value, or both. Furthermore, if the mobile terminal device 104 can execute a sharing method that uses a passphrase, the mobile terminal device 104 can indicate at least one of whether the passphrase can be displayed or entered. The mobile terminal device 104 may also indicate whether or not it is possible to trigger the sharing of communication parameters by pressing a button. The information that the mobile terminal device 104 can notify is not limited to the above.

[0069] In S704, in response to the request using the Bootstrapping Request frame, MFP100 transmits a response to mobile terminal device 104 using a Bootstrapping Response frame. As an example, MFP100 may select a sharing method that can be executed by itself from among the sharing methods included in the request from mobile terminal device 104, and may send a response that includes information that can identify the selected sharing method. Furthermore, if there is no sharing method that can be executed by itself from among the sharing methods included in the request, MFP100 may send a response that includes information indicating this.

[0070] In S705, a bootstrap processing is performed using a sharing method for sharing the communication parameters decided between the communication devices, and the communication parameters are shared. For example, the MFP 100 displays a QR code, and the mobile terminal device 104 reads the QR code to share the communication parameters. The bootstrap processing in S705 is a communication parameter sharing sequence of WFD R2. The communication parameters shared here include at least one (one or more) parameter used for wireless communication among an encryption method, an encryption key, an authentication method, an AKM, and a BSSID (MAC address). In addition, when parameters are shared using a QR code, a passphrase is also included.

[0071] In S706, mutual authentication may be performed using PASN authentication. PASN is an abbreviation for Preassociation Security Negotiation. Communication parameters for using PASN may include the public keys of each communication device. Communication parameters for using PASN may be shared using a method not specified in the WFD standard, such as Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy. Another sharing method may involve configuring a temporary network including an AP and acquiring communication parameters by connecting to that network. In PASN, the mobile terminal device 104 and MFP 100 may perform GO negotiation processing. The GO negotiation may determine the channel to be used for direct wireless communication. The GO negotiation processing determines the roles of P2P group owner (GO) and P2P client. The MFP 100 may also be configured to permanently start up as a master station in WFD mode (Autonomous Group Owner). In this case, the GO negotiation processing to determine the roles is unnecessary. The MFP 100 may perform GO negotiation processing by setting its own device's intent value to the maximum of 15, but always operates as the MFP 100. In this case, the MFP 100 determines the frequency band and frequency channel to be used for direct wireless communication as the master station, and can select which frequency band to use from 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or 6 GHz, and which frequency channel to use within that frequency band.

[0072] In WFD R1, the frequency bands available for direct wireless communication were 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, but in WFD R2, the frequency bands available for direct wireless communication will be 6 GHz in addition to 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Also, unlike R1, in WFD R2, role determination is performed after communication parameters are shared. From the processing in S707 onwards, a channel changed from the channel used in S701 to S706 may be used for communication.

[0073] In S707, when it is determined that the MFP 100 itself will operate as a GO, the MFP 100 starts transmitting a Beacon frame. The Beacon frame may include communication parameters for communicating with the MFP 100. The Beacon frame may also include information elements (IEs) and attributes defined in the WFD standard. This allows communication devices other than the mobile terminal device 104 to detect the presence of the MFP 100 and connect to the MFP 100. For example, other communication devices may detect the presence of the MFP 100 by receiving a Beacon frame that includes information defined in the WFD standard.

[0074] In S708, the mobile terminal device 104 transmits a Probe Request frame to execute a connection procedure with the MFP 100. In S709, upon receiving the Probe Request frame, the MFP 100 transmits a Probe Response frame.

[0075] In S710, the mobile terminal device 104 transmits an authentication frame. In S711, upon receiving the authentication frame, the MFP 100 transmits the authentication frame.

[0076] In S712, upon receiving the Authentication frame, the mobile terminal device 104 transmits an Association Request frame. In S713, upon receiving the Association Request frame, the MFP 100 transmits an Association Response frame.

[0077] In S714, the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 execute a 4-way handshake.

[0078] In the second standard method, a connection is established between the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 by executing the connection procedure described above. The processes of the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 described above may be reversed. Furthermore, whether the device is WFD R1 or WFD R2 compliant can be indicated in the P2P IE.

[0079] As described above, the second standard method provides multiple parameter sharing methods necessary for establishing a connection between devices. For example, when parameter sharing is performed using the QR code method, the user who instructs the device to send a parameter sharing request must be the same as the user who reads the QR code displayed on the display unit of the communication device. On the other hand, when parameter sharing is performed using the button method, the user who instructs the device to send a parameter sharing request may be different from the user who presses the button displayed on the display unit of the communication device. Therefore, it is preferable to use the QR code method as a parameter sharing method, as it is more likely that the same user will be involved. However, when using the QR code method, if an error occurs in the communication device, displaying error information should take priority over displaying the QR code, so using the QR code may not be appropriate. In this embodiment, when establishing a connection using the second standard method, an appropriate parameter sharing method can be determined depending on the operating state of the communication device.

[0080] Furthermore, although the second standard method provides multiple parameter sharing methods required to establish a connection between devices, different users desire different sharing methods. For example, when a user uses a communication device alone at home, a non-secure parameter sharing method is acceptable, and a simpler parameter sharing method is desirable. On the other hand, when a user uses a communication device in a public place, an unspecified number of people may connect. Therefore, a secure parameter sharing method is desirable, even if it makes the procedure a little more complicated. However, if a parameter sharing method is uniquely specified in the communication device, usability will be reduced. In this embodiment, when establishing a connection using the second standard method, an appropriate parameter sharing method can be determined depending on the environment of the communication device.

[0081] This embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 8 and subsequent figures. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on operation display unit 220 of MFP 100. Each screen is not limited to that shown in Fig. 8, and other information may be included.

[0082] Fig. 8(a) is an example of a display of the Wireless Direct menu screen that is displayed when "Wireless Direct" is selected on the screen of Fig. 3(c). The Wireless Direct menu screen displays an item 801 "Display setting information," an item 802 "Enable / disable Wireless Direct," and an item 803 "Connection request confirmation setting."

[0083] Fig. 8(b) is an example of a settings display screen that is displayed when "Display settings information" is selected in item 801 of Fig. 8(a). The settings display screen displays the items "Connection status," "Network name (SSID)," "Password," and "Wi-Fi security," along with their detailed information.

[0084] 8(c) is an example of a setting screen that is displayed when "Enable / Disable Wireless Direct" of item 802 in FIG. 8(a) is selected. On the setting screen, a button 804 "Yes" and a button 805 "No" are displayed. When the button 804 "Yes" is selected, information indicating that the Wireless Direct setting of MFP 100 is enabled is stored in nonvolatile memory 215. When the button 805 "No" is selected, information indicating that the Wireless Direct setting of MFP 100 is disabled is stored in nonvolatile memory 215.

[0085] FIG. 8(d) is an example of a setting screen displayed when the “Connection Request Confirmation Settings” item 803 in FIG. 8(a) is selected. The setting screen displays the following items: “QR Code” item 806, “Button” item 807, “Bluetooth” item 808, “NFC” item 809, “No Confirmation” item 810, and “No Selection” item 811. Selecting “No Confirmation” in item 810 means accepting an instruction to execute a parameter sharing method without user operation. Selecting “No Selection” in item 811 means that the user does not specify a parameter sharing method. In this case, an appropriate parameter sharing method is determined depending on the operating state of the MFP 100. When any of these items is selected, the setting value of the parameter sharing method used for connection with the WFD R2 in FIG. 7 is saved in the nonvolatile memory 215. The screen in FIG. 8(d) may also be displayed when the “Yes” button 804 in the screen in FIG. 8(c) is selected.

[0086] FIG. 8(e) is an example of a setup screen that is displayed when MFP 100 starts processing to operate in a network setup mode capable of receiving a network setting request from the outside (hereinafter, network setup mode processing).

[0087] In this embodiment, the mobile terminal device 104 can execute a process for connecting the MFP 100 to an already established local area network (LAN). Such a process is also called network setup, and includes the following operations.

[0088] In order to establish a wireless infrastructure connection (hereinafter referred to as a wireless infrastructure connection) between the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 and perform communication, a network setup instruction is transmitted from the mobile terminal device 104 to the MFP 100. A wireless infrastructure connection is a connection via an access point (AP), for example, in which the mobile terminal device 104 and the MFP 100 connect to the same AP and communicate. The AP is included in, for example, a wireless LAN router. In an MFP 100 that does not have an independent display, it is not easy for a user to correctly input identification information such as a service set identifier (SSID) and a password for connecting the MFP 100 to the AP. Therefore, the mobile terminal device 104 temporarily establishes a wireless direct connection with the MFP 100 in network setup mode, and transmits information such as the SSID and password for the desired AP to connect to (hereinafter referred to as AP setting information) to the MFP 100 as a network setting request, thereby connecting the MFP 100 to the AP. For example, mobile terminal device 104 acquires from MFP 100 a list of APs to which MFP 100 can connect, and if the list includes an AP to which mobile terminal device 104 was connected, it transmits the setting information of the AP to which mobile terminal device 104 was connected to MFP 100. MFP 100 then connects to that AP using the setting information of the AP received from mobile terminal device 104. This process does not require the user to operate MFP 100 or the AP, allowing the user to more easily perform network setup of MFP 100.

[0089] The setup screen displays operation instructions for the user and a "Stop" button 812. If the user selects the "Stop" button 812, the network setup mode processing of the MFP 100 is stopped.

[0090] 8(f) is an example of an error screen that is displayed when an error occurs in the MFP 100. An error occurs when, for example, printing or scanning cannot be performed on the MFP 100. The error screen displays a "support number" for identifying the type of error, as well as a message explaining the error phenomenon and how to resolve it.

[0091] 8(g) is an example of a job progress display screen that is displayed when a job is being executed on MFP 100. The job progress display screen displays a message explaining the progress of the job and a "Stop" button 813. If the user selects the "Stop" button 813, the job being executed on MFP 100 is stopped.

[0092] FIG. 8(h) is an example of an error screen displayed when the MFP 100 receives a parameter sharing request from the mobile terminal device 104 using the WFD R2 of FIG. 7 while an error is occurring. The error screen of FIG. 8(h) indicates an error state in which there is no paper in the print paper feed tray. When there is no paper in the feed tray, printing cannot be performed. In this embodiment, an error refers to a state in which a process that can normally be performed by the MFP 100, such as printing or scanning, cannot be performed. Before receiving the parameter sharing request using the WFD R2 of FIG. 7, the icon 814 is not displayed on the error screen. After receiving the parameter sharing request, the icon 814 is additionally displayed on the error screen. The icon 814 indicates that a parameter sharing request has been received and is an operation item (display item) for displaying a confirmation screen (described later) for accepting approval for parameter sharing. In this embodiment, when a parameter sharing request is received while the error screen is displayed, the parameter sharing method is a button method (approval operation method). When the icon 814 is operated (pressed or touched), the screen transitions to a button-based confirmation screen as shown in Fig. 9(c). In other words, the confirmation screen is a parameter sharing screen that prompts the user to confirm whether or not to allow parameter sharing.

[0093] FIG. 9A shows an example of a job progress display screen displayed when the MFP 100 receives a parameter sharing request from the mobile terminal device 104 using WFD R2 (see FIG. 7) while the MFP 100 is executing a job. In this embodiment, the job is, for example, a print job or a scan job. That is, FIG. 9A shows a screen displayed during printing or scanning. Before receiving the parameter sharing request using WFD R2 (see FIG. 7), the icon 901 is not displayed on the job progress display screen. Upon receiving the parameter sharing request, the icon 901 is additionally displayed on the job progress display screen. The icon 901 indicates that a parameter sharing request has been received and is an operation item (display item) for displaying a confirmation screen for obtaining approval for parameter sharing. In this embodiment, when a parameter sharing request is received while the job progress display screen is displayed, the parameter sharing method is a button-based method. Operating (pressing or touching) the icon 901 causes a transition to a button-based confirmation screen shown in FIG. 9C.

[0094] FIG. 9B shows an example of a parameter sharing screen displayed when parameter sharing is performed using the QR code method during connection processing using WFD R2 in FIG. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104. The parameter sharing screen in FIG. 9B displays operation instructions for the user, a “WFD-compatible device name” in item 902, a “QR code” in item 903, and a “Stop” button 904. The “WFD-compatible device name” in item 902 displays the name of the mobile terminal device 104 executing the WFD connection request. The “QR code” in item 903 displays a code image containing parameter information such as the BSSID and passphrase used to establish a WFD R2 connection in FIG. 7. When the user selects the “Stop” button 904, the WFD R2 connection processing in FIG. 7 is aborted. When sharing parameters using a QR code, various connection parameters are not transmitted over wireless radio waves. This eliminates the risk of information leakage due to wireless interception, and parameters are not leaked unless the QR code is optically read. However, the user must activate the camera of the mobile terminal device 104 to be connected and read the QR code.

[0095] FIG. 9C shows an example of a parameter sharing screen that is displayed when parameter sharing is performed using the button method in the connection processing using WFD R2 in FIG. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104. The parameter sharing screen in FIG. 9C displays operation instructions for the user. The operation instructions include a message informing the user that a connection using WFD R2 in FIG. 7 is being requested and asking whether to approve the connection. The screen also displays identification information of the device that has requested the parameter sharing, a "Yes" button 905, and a "No" button 906. If the user selects "Yes" button 905, this indicates that an operation has been performed to permit (approve) parameter sharing, and parameter sharing required to establish a connection using WFD R2 in FIG. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104 is performed. On the other hand, if the user selects "No" button 906, the connection processing using WFD R2 in FIG. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104 is canceled. In the button method, upon receiving a parameter sharing request (Bootstrapping Request), an operation to approve the parameter sharing is presented (such as displaying "Yes" on button 905 or presenting a hard key that accepts the approval operation). Then, when the approval operation is performed (such as operating a display button or operating a hard key corresponding to the approval operation), parameters are transmitted via wireless communication to the source of the parameter sharing request. In this way, the button method allows parameter sharing to be performed with a simple user operation.

[0096] 9(d) is an example of a parameter sharing screen that is displayed when parameter sharing is performed using the NFC tag method in the connection processing by WFD R2 in FIG. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104. The parameter sharing screen in FIG. 9(d) displays operation instructions for the user and a "Stop" button 907. When the user brings the mobile terminal device 104 close to an NFC tag (not shown) mounted on the MFP 100, parameter sharing required to establish a connection by WFD R2 in FIG. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104 is performed. On the other hand, when the user selects the "Stop" button 907, the connection processing by WFD R2 in FIG. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104 is stopped.

[0097] 9(e) is an example of a parameter sharing screen that is displayed when parameter sharing is performed using the Bluetooth method in the connection processing by WFD R2 in FIG. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104. The parameter sharing screen in FIG. 9(e) displays operation instructions for the user and a "Stop" button 908. When a Bluetooth connection is established between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104, parameter sharing required to establish the WFD R2 connection in FIG. 7 is performed. On the other hand, when the user selects the "Stop" button 908, the connection processing by WFD R2 in FIG. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104 is stopped.

[0098] FIG. 9(f) is an example of a connection completion screen that is displayed when a connection is established between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104 using the WFD R2 of FIG. 7. The connection completion screen displays operation instructions for the user and an "OK" button 909. When the user selects the "OK" button 909, the screen transitions to the screen of FIG. 3(a). Alternatively, the screen may transition to another screen. Note that the screen of FIG. 9(f) does not need to be displayed when a connection is established between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104 using the WFD R2 of FIG. 7.

[0099] (Process to determine how to share parameters in WFD R2) Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing processing executed in the MFP 100 to determine a method for sharing parameters used to establish a connection using the WFD R2 in Fig. 7. In this embodiment, the method for sharing parameters used in the connection using the WFD R2 in Fig. 7 is determined based on the operating state of the MFP 100 and user settings. Note that the processing shown in Fig. 10 is realized, for example, by the CPU 212 reading various programs stored in a storage area such as the ROM 213 of the MFP 100 into the RAM 214 and executing them.

[0100] In S1001, the CPU 212 turns on the power of the MFP 100. This power-on process may be executed by detecting a power-on operation from the user, or may be executed automatically without user operation after confirming that a specific condition, such as a timer start, has been met.

[0101] In S1002, the CPU 212 determines whether the initial setup flag of the MFP 100 is ON, and if it is determined that the initial setup flag is ON, the process proceeds to S1003. If it is determined that the initial setup flag is not ON, the process proceeds to S1004. For example, the initial setup flag is ON if the user has just purchased the MFP 100 and no initial setup has been performed. In other words, if it is determined that the flag is ON, it means that the MFP 100 is in an arrival state. For example, if an ink tank is installed in the MFP 100 and the initial setup has been completed to the point where printing is possible, the initial setup flag is turned OFF. In other words, if it is determined that the flag is not ON, it means that the MFP 100 is not in an arrival state. The initial setup flag is stored in a storage area such as the RAM 214.

[0102] In S1003, the CPU 212 executes a network setup mode process to execute network settings for the MFP 100. This network setup mode process will be described with reference to FIG.

[0103] In S1004, the CPU 212 displays a home screen on the operation display unit 220. As the home screen, for example, the screen shown in Fig. 3(a) is displayed.

[0104] In S1005, CPU 212 determines whether the user has performed an operation to start the network setup mode processing of MFP 100. If it is determined that the user has performed an operation to start the network setup mode processing, the network setup mode processing is executed in S1003. An operation to start the network setup mode processing is, for example, pressing a predetermined softkey or hardkey on the screen displayed on operation display unit 220. On the other hand, if it is determined that the user has not performed an operation to start the network setup mode processing, the process proceeds to S1006.

[0105] In S1006, CPU 212 determines whether the user has performed an operation to change the network settings of MFP 100. An example of an operation to change the network settings is an operation to display the screen of FIG. 3(c). If it is determined that the user has performed an operation to change the network settings, the process proceeds to S1101 in FIG. 11. If it is determined that the user has not performed an operation to change the network settings, the process proceeds to S1007.

[0106] In S1101, the CPU 212 displays a network setting menu screen on the operation display unit 220. As the network setting menu screen, for example, the screen shown in Fig. 3(c) is displayed.

[0107] In S1102, CPU 212 determines whether or not the user has performed an operation to start the network setup mode processing of MFP 100. If it is determined that the user has performed an operation to start the network setup mode processing, network setup mode processing is executed in S1103. This network setup mode processing will be described with reference to FIG. 13. On the other hand, if it is determined that the user has not performed an operation to start the network setup mode processing, the process proceeds to S1104.

[0108] In S1104, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the "Wireless Direct" item has been selected from the network setting menu displayed on the operation display unit 220 of the MFP 100. If it is determined that the "Wireless Direct" item has been selected, the process proceeds to S1105. On the other hand, if it is determined that the "Wireless Direct" item has not been selected, the process proceeds to S1108.

[0109] In S1108, the CPU 212 executes a setting change process other than "Wireless Direct." The setting change process other than "Wireless Direct" is, for example, a setting change process related to a wireless infrastructure or a setting change process related to various protocols used in network communication.

[0110] In S1105, the CPU 212 displays a setting screen for Wireless Direct on the operation display unit 220, and determines whether or not the item for "Wireless Direct enable / disable setting" of the MFP 100 has been selected. If it is determined that "Wireless Direct enable / disable setting" has been selected, the process proceeds to S1106. As the setting screen for Wireless Direct, for example, the screen shown in FIG. 8(a) is displayed. On the other hand, if it is determined that "Wireless Direct enable / disable setting" has not been selected, the process proceeds to S1109.

[0111] In S1106, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the Wireless Direct setting of the MFP 100 has been enabled. If it is determined that the Wireless Direct setting has not been enabled, the process proceeds to S1107. On the other hand, if it is determined that the Wireless Direct setting of the MFP 100 has been enabled, the process proceeds to S1110. For example, when the item 802 in FIG. 8(a) is selected, the screen in FIG. 8(c) is displayed. Here, when the button 804 in FIG. 8(c) is selected, the Wireless Direct setting is enabled, and when the button 805 in FIG. 8(c) is selected, the Wireless Direct setting is disabled.

[0112] In S1107, the CPU 212 stores information indicating that the Wireless Direct of the MFP 100 is disabled in the nonvolatile memory 215, and stops the Wireless Direct operation of the MFP 100.

[0113] In S1110, the CPU 212 stores information indicating that the Wireless Direct of the MFP 100 is enabled in the nonvolatile memory 215, and starts the Wireless Direct operation of the MFP 100.

[0114] In step S1111, the CPU 212 displays, on the operation / display unit 220, a parameter sharing method selection screen for establishing a connection between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104 using the WFD R2 protocol shown in FIG. 7 . For example, the screen shown in FIG. 8D is displayed as the parameter sharing method selection screen. In this embodiment, the parameter sharing method selection screen is displayed to all users. However, if the MFP 100 is operated in a mode in which the administrator and general users have different operational authority, the parameter sharing method selection screen may be displayed only to users with administrator authority. Here, the parameter sharing method selection screen may be displayed in a manner that prevents the user from selecting a method not installed in the MFP 100 or a method disabled in the user settings. Furthermore, the display mode for a method disabled in the user settings may be controlled. Specifically, for example, a method disabled in the user settings may be displayed in a manner different from that for a method not installed in the MFP 100 or a method enabled in the user settings. When a user selects a disabled method, the disabled method may be automatically changed to an enabled setting, or a confirmation screen may be displayed asking whether or not to change the disabled method to an enabled setting.

[0115] In S1112, CPU 212 saves information indicating the parameter sharing method selected by the user as a setting value in nonvolatile memory 215. In this embodiment, the user is allowed to select one parameter sharing method, but may be allowed to select two or more parameter sharing methods. In this case, an appropriate parameter sharing method is determined depending on the operating state of MFP 100. Furthermore, in this embodiment, one setting value for the parameter sharing method is saved in nonvolatile memory 215, but if MFP 100 is configured to be able to save setting values ​​for each logged-in user, the setting value for the parameter sharing method may be saved in association with the logged-in user.

[0116] In S1109, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the item for Wireless Direct connection request confirmation setting has been selected for the MFP 100. If it is determined that the item for Wireless Direct connection request confirmation setting has been selected, the process proceeds to S1111, where the selection screen for the parameter sharing method for establishing a connection by WFD R2 in Fig. 7 is displayed on the operation display unit 220. On the other hand, if it is determined that the item for Wireless Direct connection request confirmation setting for the MFP 100 has not been selected, the process proceeds to S1108.

[0117] As described above, network settings including the setting of the parameter sharing method are performed based on the items specified by the user on the network setting menu screen of MFP 100.

[0118] 10, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the wireless direct operation of the MFP 100 is enabled based on information stored in the nonvolatile memory 215. If it is determined that the wireless direct operation is not enabled, the process proceeds to S1009. On the other hand, if it is determined that the wireless direct operation is enabled, the process proceeds to S1008.

[0119] In S1009, CPU 212 determines whether or not an error has occurred in MFP 100, and if it is determined that an error has occurred, proceeds to S1010. On the other hand, if it is determined that an error has not occurred in MFP 100, proceeds to S1011.

[0120] In S1010, the CPU 212 displays a screen of error information on the operation display unit 220. As the screen of error information, for example, the screen of Fig. 8(f) is displayed.

[0121] In S1011, the CPU 212 determines whether the MFP 100 has received a job execution request, and if it is determined that the job execution request has been received, the process proceeds to S1012. On the other hand, if it is determined that the MFP 100 has not received a job execution request, the process proceeds to S1013.

[0122] In S1012, the CPU 212 displays a progress display screen for the job being executed on the operation display unit 220. As the job progress display screen, for example, the screen shown in Fig. 8(g) is displayed.

[0123] In S1013, the CPU 212 determines whether the MFP 100 has received another request, and if it is determined that another request has been received, the process proceeds to S1014. On the other hand, if it is determined that the MFP 100 has not received another request, the process proceeds to S1015.

[0124] In S1014, the CPU 212 executes processing in response to other requests. Examples of other requests include a request to change the main body settings of the MFP 100 and a request to obtain information about the MFP 100 transmitted from the mobile terminal device 104. An example of a request to change the main body settings is a request to change device information, specifically, for example, the setting of the installation location of the MFP 100. The setting of the installation location may be set so that it can be input in a selection format. For example, a selection item for whether security is required may be configured next to the input item for the installation location.

[0125] In S1015, CPU 212 determines whether a certain time has passed since MFP 100 entered the idle state, and if it is determined that the certain time has passed, proceeds to S1016. On the other hand, if it is determined that the certain time has not passed since MFP 100 entered the idle state, proceeds to S1017. Note that the idle state is a state in which no operations from the user are being accepted.

[0126] In S1016, the CPU 212 executes processing to transition the MFP 100 to the power saving mode.

[0127] In S1017, the CPU 212 determines whether or not a power-off operation has been received from the user. If it is determined that a power-off operation has been received from the user, the CPU 212 executes power-off processing for the MFP 100. On the other hand, if it is determined that a power-off operation has not been received from the user, the process returns to S1005.

[0128] In S1008, the CPU 212 determines whether or not a parameter sharing request (Bootstrapping Request) for establishing a connection by WFD R2 in Fig. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal apparatus 104 has been received. The parameter sharing request transmitted from the mobile terminal apparatus 104 to the MFP 100 corresponds to the processing of S703 in Fig. 7, and the parameter sharing request includes information on the parameter sharing method supported by the mobile terminal apparatus 104. If it is determined that the MFP 100 has received the parameter sharing request from the mobile terminal apparatus 104, the process proceeds to S1201 in Fig. 12. On the other hand, if it is determined that the parameter sharing request has not been received, the process proceeds to S1009.

[0129] In S1201, the CPU 212 determines the parameter sharing method for establishing a connection using WFD R2 in FIG. 7 based on setting values ​​stored in the nonvolatile memory 215 of the MFP 100. If it is determined that the parameter sharing method is the initial setting, it is determined that the user has not specified the parameter sharing method, and the process proceeds to a flow of S1202 to S1211 for switching the parameter sharing method depending on the operating state of the MFP 100. On the other hand, if it is determined that the parameter sharing method is not the initial setting, the process proceeds to a flow of S1212 to S1221 for establishing a connection using the parameter sharing method specified by the user. Note that the parameter sharing method is the initial setting when, for example, the setting screen of FIG. 8(d) has never been displayed and the default setting remains. In addition, the parameter sharing method is the initial setting when, for example, button 811 is selected.

[0130] In S1202, the CPU 212 determines whether an error has occurred in the MFP 100. If it is determined that an error has not occurred in the MFP 100, the process proceeds to S1203. On the other hand, if it is determined that an error has occurred in the MFP 100, the process proceeds to S1205.

[0131] In S1203, the CPU 212 determines whether the MFP 100 is currently executing a job. If it is determined that the MFP 100 is not currently executing a job, the process proceeds to S1204. On the other hand, if it is determined that the MFP 100 is currently executing a job, the process proceeds to S1205. The currently executing job state is, for example, a state in which printing or scanning is in progress.

[0132] In S1204, the CPU 212 transmits a parameter sharing response (Bootstrapping Response) to the mobile terminal apparatus 104. The parameter sharing response transmitted from the MFP 100 to the mobile terminal apparatus 104 corresponds to the processing of S704 in FIG. 7 and includes information on the parameter sharing method selected by the MFP 100. In this embodiment, if the MFP 100 is not in an error state or a job execution state, the parameter sharing method selected by the MFP 100 is QR code. Then, the CPU 212 displays a QR code screen (code image) on the operation / display unit 220. For example, the screen shown in FIG. 9B is displayed as the QR code screen. The QR code displayed on the QR code screen includes parameters such as the BSSID and passphrase for establishing a connection using WFD R2 in FIG. 7. Then, the mobile terminal apparatus 104 reads the QR code displayed on the operation / display unit 220, thereby executing parameter sharing (Bootstrapping). This parameter sharing corresponds to the processing of S705 in FIG. 7, and when the parameter sharing is completed, the process proceeds to S1210.

[0133] In S1210, the CPU 212 executes mutual authentication using PASN authentication between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104. This mutual authentication corresponds to S706 in Fig. 7, and when the mutual authentication is completed, the process proceeds to S1211.

[0134] In S1211, CPU 212 executes connection processing between MFP 100 and mobile terminal device 104. This connection processing corresponds to S707 to S714 in FIG. 7. When the connection processing is completed, a wireless connection by WFD R2 in FIG. 7 is established between MFP 100 and mobile terminal device 104. When the wireless connection is established, CPU 212 may display a connection completion screen on operation display unit 220. For example, the screen in FIG. 9(f) is displayed as the connection completion screen.

[0135] When an error occurs in MFP 100, an error information screen is displayed on operation display unit 220. For example, the screen shown in Fig. 8(f) is displayed as the error information screen. When MFP 100 is in a job execution state, a job progress display screen is displayed on operation display unit 220. For example, the screen shown in Fig. 8(g) is displayed as the job progress display screen.

[0136] In S1205, the CPU 212 transmits a parameter sharing response (Bootstrapping Response) to the mobile terminal apparatus 104. The parameter sharing response transmitted from the MFP 100 to the mobile terminal apparatus 104 corresponds to the processing of S704 in FIG. 7, and the parameter sharing response includes information on the parameter sharing method selected by the MFP 100. In this embodiment, if the MFP 100 is in a state where an error has occurred or is in a state where a job is being executed, the button method (approval operation method) is selected as the parameter sharing method. Then, the CPU 212 displays a button icon (display item) on the screen displayed on the operation display unit 220 to guide the user to establish a Wireless Direct connection using the WFD R2 in FIG. 7. The button icon is, for example, icon 814 in FIG. 8(h) or icon 901 in FIG. 9(a). In this embodiment, the button icon has a smartphone-like design as an example, but an icon with a different design may also be used.

[0137] In S1206, CPU 212 determines whether the user has selected a button icon displayed on operation display unit 220, and if it is determined that the user has selected it, the process proceeds to S1207. In this embodiment, a button icon is displayed on operation display unit 220 and whether the user has selected it is determined, but it may also be determined based on whether the user has selected a predetermined hard key mounted on MFP 100. The predetermined hard key is, for example, a hard key with an LED that is flashing.

[0138] In S1207, the CPU 212 displays a confirmation screen for asking whether or not to permit the connection request by WFD R2 in Fig. 7 from the mobile terminal device 104 on the operation display unit 220. For example, the screen in Fig. 9(c) is displayed as the confirmation screen.

[0139] In S1208, the CPU 212 determines whether or not the user has performed an approval operation (permission operation) on the confirmation screen displayed on the operation display unit 220. If it is determined that the user has performed an approval operation (for example, if the "Yes" button 905 has been pressed), the process proceeds to S1209. On the other hand, if it is determined that the user has not performed an approval operation, the CPU 212 cancels the connection process by WFD R2 in FIG. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104.

[0140] In S1209, the CPU 212 executes parameter sharing (bootstrapping) by WFD R2 in Fig. 7 between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104. This parameter sharing corresponds to the processing of S705 in Fig. 7. S1209 includes processing for transmitting parameters via wireless communication to the source of the parameter sharing request.

[0141] As described above, if the parameter sharing method is not specified by the user, an appropriate parameter sharing method is determined and executed according to the operating state of MFP 100 when the parameter sharing request is received.

[0142] In S1212, the CPU 212 determines whether the setting of the parameter sharing method for establishing a connection using WFD R2 in Fig. 7 is a QR code based on the setting value stored in the nonvolatile memory 215 of the MFP 100, and if it is determined that it is a QR code, the process proceeds to S1215. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not a QR code, the process proceeds to S1213. The processes of S1215, S1219, and S1220 are the same as the processes of S1204, S1210, and S1211, and therefore their description will be omitted.

[0143] In S1213, the CPU 212 determines whether the parameter sharing method for establishing a connection using WFD R2 in Fig. 7 is the button method based on the setting values ​​stored in the nonvolatile memory 215 of the MFP 100, and if it is determined that it is the button method, the process proceeds to S1216. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not the button method, the process proceeds to S1214. The processes of S1216, S1217, and S1218 are the same as the processes of S1207, S1208, and S1209, and therefore their description will be omitted.

[0144] In S1214, the CPU 212 determines whether or not "No confirmation" has been selected as the parameter sharing method for establishing a connection using WFD R2 in Fig. 7, based on the setting values ​​stored in the nonvolatile memory 215 of the MFP 100, and if it is determined that "No confirmation" has been selected, the process proceeds to S1218. On the other hand, if it is determined that "No confirmation" has not been selected, the process proceeds to S1221.

[0145] In S1221, the CPU 212 executes parameter sharing for establishing a connection between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104 by WFD R2 in FIG. 7 using another method. The other method is, for example, a method using an NFC tag or Bluetooth. If "NFC tag" is selected as the parameter sharing method, the CPU 212 displays, for example, the screen shown in FIG. 9(d) on the operation display unit 220. If "Bluetooth" is selected as the parameter sharing method, the CPU 212 displays, for example, the screen shown in FIG. 9(e) on the operation display unit 220.

[0146] In this embodiment, the user can select only one parameter sharing method in steps S1212 to S1221. However, two or more methods may be selectable. In this case, for example, a priority associated with the operating state of MFP 100 may be set for each parameter sharing method. For example, when MFP 100 is in an idle state, the priority of the QR code method may be set higher than that of other parameter sharing methods. As a result, even if the QR code method and the button method are selected by the user, an appropriate parameter sharing method is determined depending on the operating state of MFP 100 when the parameter sharing request is received. Such control based on priority may be performed using a table, which will be described later.

[0147] (Network setup mode processing) Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing the process when MFP 100 in this embodiment executes network setup mode processing. Note that the process shown in Fig. 13 is realized, for example, by CPU 212 reading various programs stored in a storage area such as ROM 213 of MFP 100 into RAM 214 and executing them.

[0148] In S1301, the CPU 212 starts the Wireless Direct operation of the MFP 100. In this embodiment, Wireless Direct starts operation in the WFD mode, but it may start operation in both the WFD mode and the Soft AP mode.

[0149] In S1302, the CPU 212 determines whether or not a parameter sharing request (Bootstrapping Request) for establishing a connection by WFD R2 in Fig. 7 has been received between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal apparatus 104. If it is determined that a parameter sharing request has been received, the CPU 212 transmits a parameter sharing response (Bootstrapping Response) to the mobile terminal apparatus 104. This parameter sharing request and parameter sharing response correspond to the processes of S703 to S704 in Fig. 7.

[0150] In S1303, the CPU 212 executes parameter sharing (bootstrapping) for establishing a connection between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104 using WFD R2 in FIG. 7. In this embodiment, if the MFP 100 is operating in network setup mode, parameter sharing is executed even without an approval operation from the user. That is, parameter sharing is performed using a method (sharing method) different from the QR code method and the button method. This parameter sharing corresponds to S705 in FIG. 7.

[0151] In S1304 and S1305, a connection is established between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104. This processing is the same as, for example, S1210 and S1211 in Fig. 9, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0152] In S1306, the CPU 212 determines whether or not a network setting request for the MFP 100 has been received from the mobile terminal device 104. If it is determined that a network setting request has been received, the process proceeds to S1307. The network setting request is a request for connecting the MFP 100 to an external access point, and includes information about the external access point to which the MFP 100 is to be connected, such as the SSID.

[0153] In S1307, the CPU 212 ends the Wireless Direct operation of the MFP 100. In S1308, the CPU 212 changes the network settings of the MFP 100 based on the setting information included in the network setting request of the MFP 100 received from the mobile terminal device 104. That is, based on the setting information of the received AP, the MFP 100 is wirelessly connected to the AP via infrastructure.

[0154] 12, when it is determined in S1201 that the parameter sharing method is the default setting, it is determined that the user has not specified the parameter sharing method, and the process proceeds to the flow of S1202 to S1211 for switching the parameter sharing method depending on the operating state of MFP 100. In the flow of S1202 to S1211, when it is determined that the MFP 100 is in an error-free state and a job is not yet executed state, a QR code is displayed in S1204. However, the process for determining the operating state of MFP 100 for displaying the QR code is not limited to the above. For example, when it is determined that the MFP 100 is in an idle state, a power saving state, or an automatic power-on standby state, a QR code may be displayed in S1204, and the processes of S1210 and S1211 may be executed. Note that automatic power-on refers to a function that automatically turns on the power of MFP 100 when data is sent from an external device, and the automatic power-on standby state refers to a state in which the MFP 100 is waiting to receive data from an external device. Here, the reception of data from an external device may be, for example, a parameter sharing request. With the above configuration, a user who has issued a parameter sharing request via mobile terminal device 104 can be made aware of the receipt of the parameter sharing request at MFP 100 by the display of a QR code. Alternatively, if it is determined that MFP 100 is in a power saving state or an automatic power-on standby state, and if operation / display unit 220 of MFP 100 is provided with a predetermined hard key with an LED, the LED may be used to notify the receipt of the parameter sharing request. Specifically, for example, the predetermined hard key may be a button for establishing a Wireless Direct connection between MFP 100 and mobile terminal device 104, and the LED may be configured to blink when a parameter sharing request is received. When the user presses the hard key, the processes of S1209, S1210, and S1211 may be executed.

[0155] In the flow of S1202 to S1209, when it is determined that the MFP 100 is in an error state or in a job execution state, a button icon (display item) is displayed on the screen displayed on the operation / display unit 220 in S1205. However, the processing in this case is not limited to the above. For example, a QR code may be displayed instead of or together with the button icon. Furthermore, when it is determined that the MFP 100 is in an error state or in a job execution state, if a predetermined hard key with an LED is provided on the operation / display unit 220 of the MFP 100, the LED may be used to notify the reception of a parameter sharing request. Specifically, for example, the predetermined hard key may be a button for establishing a wireless direct connection between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104, and the LED may be configured to blink when a parameter sharing request is received. When the user presses the hard key, the processing of S1209, S1210, and S1211 may be executed.

[0156] 10 and 11, the process of FIG. 13 is executed when it is determined in S1005 and S1102 that the user has performed an operation to start the network setup mode process. That is, when it is determined that the user has performed the process to start the network setup mode process, parameter sharing is executed in S1303 without user operation based on the determination in S1302 that a parameter share request has been received. However, this process is not limited to this, and parameter sharing may be executed through user operation. For example, when it is determined in S1302 that a parameter share request has been received, a QR code may be displayed as in S1204. In this case, processes similar to S1210 and S1211 are then executed. Furthermore, instead of or in addition to displaying the QR code, a predetermined hard key with an LED may be used to notify the reception of the parameter share request. Specifically, for example, the predetermined hard key may be a button for establishing a Wireless Direct connection between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104, and the LED may be configured to flash when a parameter share request is received. When the hard key is pressed by the user, the same processes as S1209, S1210, and S1211 may be executed. By requiring user operation in this way, the user can be made to confirm that he or she wants to share parameters.

[0157] 10 and 11, the process of FIG. 13 is executed when it is determined in S1005 and S1102 that the user has performed an operation to start the network setup mode process. However, the process of FIG. 13 may also be executed based on the occurrence of a predetermined event, such as the power-on of the MFP 100. In this case, if it is determined in S1302 that a parameter sharing request has been received, a QR code may be displayed as in S1204. In this case, processes similar to those in S1210 and S1211 are then executed. Instead of or in addition to displaying the QR code, a predetermined hard key with an LED may be used to notify the reception of the parameter sharing request. Specifically, for example, the predetermined hard key may be a button for establishing a Wireless Direct connection between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104, and the LED may be configured to flash when a parameter sharing request is received. When the user presses the hard key, processes similar to those in S1209, S1210, and S1211 may be executed. By requiring user operation in this way, it is possible to have the user confirm that he or she wishes to share parameters.

[0158] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the operation / display unit 220 of the MFP 100 has a panel. However, a configuration in which the operation / display unit 220 does not have a panel and is provided only with hard keys is also conceivable. In this case, when the CPU 212 determines that a parameter sharing request has been received while the MFP 100 is in an idle state, a power saving state, an automatic power-on standby state, an error state, or a job execution state, the CPU 212 may notify the reception of the parameter sharing request using a predetermined hard key with an LED. Specifically, for example, the predetermined hard key may be a button for establishing a wireless direct connection between the MFP 100 and the mobile terminal device 104, and the LED may be configured to blink when a parameter sharing request is received. When the user presses the hard key, processing similar to steps S1209, S1210, and S1211 may be executed. By requiring a user operation in this manner, the user can confirm that the parameter sharing will be executed.

[0159] FIG. 12 illustrates switching of the parameter sharing method depending on the operating state of the MFP 100. In this embodiment, the parameter sharing method may be associated in advance with the configuration of the MFP 100 and the operating state of the MFP 100. Here, the configuration of the MFP 100 refers to whether the MFP 100 has a panel or not, and whether it has a predetermined hard key or not (i.e., implemented by a soft key), as described above. The association may be stored in the nonvolatile memory 215 as a table, for example. The CPU 212 may then refer to the table and execute a control process for switching the parameter sharing method. An example of such a table is shown below. This table may be used to prioritize the parameter sharing methods described above. For example, even if the user has selected the QR code method and the button method, if the operating state of the MFP 100 is idle when a parameter sharing request is received, the QR code method is prioritized according to the following table. The following table may also include other items. For example, the parameter sharing method may be switched taking into consideration device information of the MFP 100. For example, if the setting contents of the installation location of MFP 100 are set to require security, the QR code may be preferentially determined as the parameter sharing method.

[0160] [Table 1]

[0161] As described above, according to this embodiment, the parameter sharing method can be switched depending on the configuration of the MFP 100, the state of the MFP 100, and the setting information. For example, by switching the parameter sharing method based on the setting information, parameter sharing can be performed in a method desired by the user. Furthermore, when the parameter sharing method is switched based on the state of the MFP 100, for example, if the state of the MFP 100 is a state in which an error has occurred or a state in which a job is being executed, screens such as those shown in FIG. 8(h) and FIG. 9(a) are displayed. With such a configuration, it is possible to prioritize notification of the state of the MFP 100 while making it possible to accept an instruction to execute parameter sharing. Furthermore, it is possible to execute an appropriate parameter sharing method depending on the configuration of the MFP 100.

[0162] In this embodiment, the description of the processing performed while receiving print data is given, but similar processing can also be applied to the reception or transmission of data other than print data. For example, similar processing can be applied when scanning an original with the reading unit 219 and transmitting the scanned image (image data) to the mobile terminal device 104 via an external access point.

[0163] The various controls described above as being performed by CPU 212 may be performed by a single piece of hardware, or the entire device may be controlled by multiple pieces of hardware (e.g., multiple processors or circuits) sharing the processing.

[0164] Furthermore, while the above-described embodiment has been described using an example in which the present invention is applied to an MFP, the present invention is not limited to this example and can be applied to any wireless device capable of P2P (WLAN) communication based on WFD. Specifically, the present invention can be applied to personal computers, PDAs, tablet devices, mobile phones such as smartphones, music players, game consoles, e-book readers, smartwatches, and various measuring devices (sensor devices) such as thermometers and hygrometers. It can also be applied to digital cameras (including still cameras, video cameras, network cameras, and security cameras), printers, scanners, and drones. It can also be applied to video output devices, audio output devices (e.g., smart speakers), media streaming players, and wireless LAN adapters (adapters) that can be connected to USB or LAN cable terminals. Video output devices include devices such as set-top boxes, which acquire (download) videos and still images from the Internet identified by a URL specified by a communication device and output them to a connected display device via a video output terminal such as HDMI (registered trademark). This enables streaming playback on the display device and mirroring display (displaying the content displayed on the communication device on the display device as well). Video output devices include media players such as televisions, hard disk recorders, Blu-ray recorders, and DVD recorders, head-mounted displays, projectors, televisions, display devices (monitors), signage devices, etc. The technology can also be applied to Wi-Fi-connectable devices known as smart home appliances, such as air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, vacuum cleaners, ovens, microwave ovens, lighting fixtures, heating appliances, and cooling appliances.

[0165] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0166] The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following communication device, its control method, program, and storage medium. (Item 1) A communication device, a communication means capable of performing wireless communication between the communication device and an external device by wireless LAN without going through an external access point; a selection means for selecting, in response to a user operation, a method for sharing parameters used for the wireless communication connection between the communication device and the external device from a plurality of methods; a control unit that controls execution of a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device by the method selected by the selection unit; A communication device comprising: (Item 2) The communication device described in item 1, characterized in that the control means controls mutual authentication between the communication device and the external device after executing processing to share the parameters using the method selected by the selection means. (Item 3) 3. The communication device according to item 2, wherein the mutual authentication is performed using PASN (Preassociation Security Negotiation authentication). (Item 4) the plurality of methods include at least one of a first method, a second method, a third method, a fourth method, and a fifth method; the first method is a method in which a code image including information of the parameter is displayed on the communication device, and the code image is read by the external device, thereby sharing the parameter between the communication device and the external device; the second method is a method in which the parameter is shared between the communication device and the external device through the wireless communication based on a predetermined operation being performed on the communication device, the third method is a method in which the parameter is shared between the communication device and the external device without a user operation being performed on the communication device and the external device after receiving a request to share the parameter; The fourth method is a method in which the parameters are shared between the communication device and the external device using a Near Field Communication (NFC) tag, The fifth method is a method in which the parameters are shared between the communication device and the external device using Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy. 4. The communication device according to any one of items 1 to 3. (Item 5) Each corresponding option of the plurality of methods includes a specific option, When the specific option is selected in response to the user operation, the control means controls to execute a process for sharing the parameter between the communication device and the external device by the method that differs depending on an operating state of the communication device; The control means When the communication device is in a first operating state, executing a process for sharing the parameter between the communication device and the external device by a first method; When the communication device is in a second operating state different from the first operating state, control is performed so that a process for sharing the parameter between the communication device and the external device is performed using a second method different from the first method. 4. The communication device according to any one of items 1 to 3. (Item 6) when a request for sharing the parameters is received from the external device while the method is not selected in response to the user operation, the control means controls to execute a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device by the method that differs depending on the operating state of the communication device; The control means When the communication device is in a first operating state, executing a process for sharing the parameter between the communication device and the external device by a first method; When the communication device is in a second operating state different from the first operating state, control is performed so that a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device is executed using a second method different from the first method. 4. The communication device according to any one of items 1 to 3. (Item 7) The communication device described in any one of items 1 to 6, characterized in that the parameters shared between the communication device and the external device include at least one of an encryption method, an encryption key, an authentication method, AKM (Authentication and Key Management), BSSID, MAC Address, and a passphrase. (Item 8) 8. The communication device according to any one of items 1 to 7, characterized in that when the Wireless Direct setting of the communication device is enabled, a selection screen for selecting the method is displayed on a display unit of the communication device. (Item 9) Item 9. The communication device according to any one of items 1 to 8, characterized in that when an item regarding a method for sharing the parameters is selected on a screen displayed on a display unit of the communication device, a selection screen for selecting the method is displayed. (Item 10) A communication device described in any one of items 1 to 9, characterized in that when administrator authority is set in the communication device, the method is selected in response to the user operation of only a user with administrator authority. (Item 11) 11. The communication device according to any one of items 1 to 10, characterized in that, when the communication device is configured to require login for each user, information about the method selected by the selection means is saved for each logged-in user. (Item 12) 12. The communication device according to any one of items 1 to 11, wherein the selection means is capable of selecting a plurality of the methods in response to the user operation. (Item 13) when a request to share the parameters is received from the external device in a state in which a plurality of methods have been selected by the selection means in response to the user operation, the method corresponding to an operating state of the communication device is determined from the selected plurality of methods; the control means controls to execute a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device using the determined method. Item 13. A communication device according to item 12. (Item 14) 14. The communication device according to any one of items 1 to 13, characterized in that the selection screen for selecting the method does not make it possible to select the method that is not implemented in the communication device or that is set to be disabled in the communication device. (Item 15) A communication device described in any one of items 1 to 14, characterized in that when a method that is set to be disabled in the communication device is selected on a selection screen for selecting the method, the selected method is set to be enabled without user operation. (Item 16) Item 16. The communication device according to item 15, characterized in that when a method that is set to be disabled in the communication device is selected on the selection screen, a confirmation screen is displayed to allow the user to confirm whether or not to set the selected method to be enabled. (Item 17) 17. The communication device according to any one of items 1 to 16, wherein the method is determined in conjunction with settings relating to the installation location of the communication device. (Item 18) When a request for sharing the parameters using Wi-Fi Protected Setup is received from the external device while one of the methods using a code image, a button, NFC, or Bluetooth is selected by the selection means, a confirmation screen is displayed to allow a user to confirm whether or not to allow the connection via wireless communication between the communication device and the external device, When an operation to permit the connection via wireless communication is accepted on the confirmation screen, the control means controls to execute a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device. 18. A communication device according to any one of items 1 to 17. (Item 19) When a request for sharing the parameters using Wi-Fi Protected Setup is received from the external device in a state in which the method that does not involve a user operation between the communication device and the external device is selected by the selection means from among the plurality of methods, the confirmation screen is not displayed, the control means controls execution of a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device; Item 19. A communication device according to item 18, characterized in that (Item 20) The wireless communication is communication in accordance with the Wi-Fi Direct standard, The communication device described in any one of items 1 to 19, characterized in that in the wireless communication, the transmission of a parameter set to the external device and the reception of a parameter set from the external device, which are performed as part of the sharing of the parameters, are communications that are performed before processing is performed to determine which of the communication device and the external device will be the parent device. (Item 21) 21. The communication device according to any one of items 1 to 20, wherein the wireless communication is communication conforming to the Wi-Fi Direct standard and capable of communication using the 6 GHz band. (Item 22) A communication device control method executed in a communication device, a communication step capable of performing wireless communication between the communication device and an external device via a wireless LAN without going through an external access point; a selection step of selecting, in response to a user operation, a method for sharing parameters used for the wireless communication connection between the communication device and the external device from a plurality of methods; a control step of controlling execution of a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device by the method selected in the selection step; A method for controlling a communication device, comprising: (Item 23) A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the communication device described in any one of items 1 to 21. (Item 24) A computer-readable storage medium that stores a program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the communication device described in any one of items 1 to 21.

[0167] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0168] 100 MFP: 101 AP1: 102 AP2: 103 Server: 104 Mobile terminal: 212 CPU: 213 ROM: 214 RAM

Claims

1. A communication device, a communication means capable of performing wireless communication between the communication device and an external device by wireless LAN without going through an external access point; a selection means for selecting, in response to a user operation, a method for sharing parameters used for the wireless communication connection between the communication device and the external device from a plurality of methods; a control unit that controls execution of a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device by the method selected by the selection unit; A communication device comprising:

2. The communication device according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means controls mutual authentication between the communication device and the external device after executing processing for sharing the parameters using the method selected by the selection means.

3. 3. The communication device according to claim 2, wherein the mutual authentication is performed using PASN (Preassociation Security Negotiation authentication).

4. the plurality of methods include at least one of a first method, a second method, a third method, a fourth method, and a fifth method; the first method is a method in which a code image including information of the parameter is displayed on the communication device, and the code image is read by the external device, thereby sharing the parameter between the communication device and the external device; the second method is a method in which the parameter is shared between the communication device and the external device through the wireless communication based on a predetermined operation being performed on the communication device, the third method is a method in which the parameter is shared between the communication device and the external device without a user operation being performed on the communication device and the external device after receiving a request to share the parameter; The fourth method is a method in which the parameters are shared between the communication device and the external device using a Near Field Communication (NFC) tag, The fifth method is a method in which the parameters are shared between the communication device and the external device using Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy.

2. The communication device according to claim 1.

5. Each corresponding option of the plurality of methods includes a specific option, When the specific option is selected in response to the user operation, the control means controls to execute a process for sharing the parameter between the communication device and the external device by the method that differs depending on an operating state of the communication device; The control means When the communication device is in a first operating state, executing a process for sharing the parameter between the communication device and the external device by a first method; When the communication device is in a second operating state different from the first operating state, control is performed so that a process for sharing the parameter between the communication device and the external device is executed using a second method different from the first method.

2. The communication device according to claim 1.

6. when a request for sharing the parameters is received from the external device while the method is not selected in response to the user operation, the control means controls to execute a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device by the method that differs depending on the operating state of the communication device; The control means When the communication device is in a first operating state, executing a process for sharing the parameter between the communication device and the external device by a first method; When the communication device is in a second operating state different from the first operating state, control is performed so that a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device is executed using a second method different from the first method.

2. The communication device according to claim 1.

7. 2. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the parameters shared between the communication device and the external device include at least one of an encryption method, an encryption key, an authentication method, AKM (Authentication and Key Management), BSSID, MAC Address, and a passphrase.

8. The communication device according to claim 1 , wherein when the Wireless Direct setting of the communication device is enabled, a selection screen for selecting the method is displayed on a display unit of the communication device.

9. The communication device according to claim 1, characterized in that when an item regarding a method for sharing the parameters is selected on a screen displayed on a display unit of the communication device, a selection screen for selecting the method is displayed.

10. The communication device according to claim 1 , wherein, when an administrator authority is set in the communication device, the method is selected in response to the user operation of only a user having the administrator authority.

11. The communication device according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the communication device is configured to require login for each user, information about the method selected by the selection means is saved for each logged-in user.

12. 2. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the selection means is capable of selecting a plurality of the methods in response to the user's operation.

13. when a request to share the parameters is received from the external device in a state in which a plurality of methods have been selected by the selection means in response to the user operation, the method corresponding to an operating state of the communication device is determined from the selected plurality of methods; the control means controls to execute a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device using the determined method.

13. The communication device according to claim 12.

14. The communication device according to claim 1, characterized in that the selection screen for selecting the method does not make it possible to select a method that is not implemented in the communication device or a method that is set to be disabled in the communication device.

15. The communication device according to claim 1, characterized in that when a method that is set to be disabled in the communication device is selected on a selection screen for selecting the method, the selected method is set to be enabled without user operation.

16. The communication device according to claim 15, characterized in that, when a method that is set to be disabled in the communication device is selected on the selection screen, a confirmation screen is displayed to allow the user to confirm whether or not to set the selected method to be enabled.

17. The communication device according to claim 1 , wherein the method is determined in conjunction with a setting relating to an installation location of the communication device.

18. When a request for sharing the parameters using Wi-Fi Protected Setup is received from the external device with one of the methods using a code image, a button, NFC, or Bluetooth selected by the selection means, a confirmation screen is displayed to allow a user to confirm whether or not to allow the connection via wireless communication between the communication device and the external device; When an operation to permit the connection via wireless communication is accepted on the confirmation screen, the control means controls to execute a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device.

2. The communication device according to claim 1.

19. When a request for sharing the parameters using Wi-Fi Protected Setup is received from the external device in a state in which the method that does not involve a user operation between the communication device and the external device is selected by the selection means from among the plurality of methods, the confirmation screen is not displayed, the control means controls execution of a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device; 20. The communication device according to claim 18,

20. The wireless communication is communication in accordance with the Wi-Fi Direct standard, The communication device described in claim 1, characterized in that in the wireless communication, the transmission of a parameter group to the external device and the reception of a parameter group from the external device, which are performed as part of the sharing of the parameters, are communications that are performed before processing regarding which of the communication device and the external device will be the parent device.

21. 2. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the wireless communication is in accordance with the Wi-Fi Direct standard and is capable of communication using the 6 GHz band.

22. A communication device control method executed in a communication device, a communication step for performing wireless communication between the communication device and an external device via a wireless LAN without going through an external access point; a selection step of selecting, in response to a user operation, a method for sharing parameters used for the wireless communication connection between the communication device and the external device from a plurality of methods; a control step of controlling execution of a process for sharing the parameters between the communication device and the external device by the method selected in the selection step; A method for controlling a communication device, comprising:

23. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

24. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

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