Relay device, method for suppressing unauthorized use thereof, and program

Abstract

To provide a repeating device, etc., that contributes to reliability detecting a remodeling that involves opening of a casing.SOLUTION: The repeating device comprises: a plurality of casings that are combined together so as to cover an internal space; an antenna; a wireless communication unit that is mounted in the internal space and performs communication processing on a terminal that is wirelessly connected via the antenna; a plurality of cover units that are attached respectively to the plurality of casings in the internal space and create a darkroom space shut out from light when the plurality of casings are normally combined together; a light detection unit that is mounted in the darkroom space and detects light; a display unit that displays information; and a control unit that is mounted in the internal space and controls the wireless communication unit, the light detection unit, and the display unit. When light is detected by the light detection unit, the control unit causes the display unit to indicate being in an abnormal state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a relay device, a method for suppressing unauthorized use thereof, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, with the increase in terminals such as smartphones and tablet terminals capable of wireless LAN (Local Area Network) communication, the diversification of users who use wireless LAN communication has progressed. In addition to the improvement of user skills, various information publicly available on the Internet has led to cases where malicious users attempt to modify the hardware or software of relay devices such as wireless LAN routers and gateway devices. When the hardware of a relay device is modified, etc., it may violate the Radio Law or reduce security. Therefore, in relay devices, measures such as complicating the casing structure so that the device cannot be easily disassembled, or making the structure such that special tools are required for assembly and disassembly, are taken to prevent violations of the Radio Law and security degradation due to hardware modification, etc.

[0003] However, there has been a problem that some users can physically destroy the casing, prepare special tools on their own to disassemble the device, and attempt hardware modification, etc. Also, due to the disassembly of the casing of the relay device or physical processing by the user, the assembly situation and casing state become different from those during device manufacturing at the factory, resulting in the wireless directivity and reception characteristics deviating from the design values, which may cause radio interference or radio obstacles to devices around the said device. In particular, with the increase in the processing speed and communication speed and the high functionality of relay devices, the power consumption of relay devices increases and their heat generation also tends to increase. Therefore, in order to take heat countermeasures and safety countermeasures for relay devices, thermal design is carried out by calculating the arrangement of the casing and electronic components. However, if the positional relationship between the casing and electronic components changes due to hardware modification, etc., it may become impossible to obtain the heat dissipation effect as designed.

[0004] Therefore, as a method for solving problems caused by hardware modification or the like, for example, there is a method that restricts transmission performance, reception performance, etc. when external light is detected when the housing (casing) is opened (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The following analysis is provided by the inventor of the present application.

[0007] However, in the method described in Patent Document 1, even if the casing is opened and hardware modification or the like is performed, if the external light cannot be detected, it is determined to be in a normal state.

[0008] The main object of the present invention is to provide a relay device that can contribute to reliably detecting the modification of opening the casing, a method for suppressing unauthorized use thereof, and a program.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0009] The relay device according to the first perspective includes a plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space, an antenna configured to mutually convert current and radio waves, a wireless communication unit mounted in the internal space and configured to perform communication processing with a terminal wirelessly connected via the antenna, a plurality of cover parts attached to each of the plurality of casings in the internal space and configured to create a darkroom space where light does not enter when the plurality of casings are properly combined, a light detection unit mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light, a display unit configured to display information, and a control unit mounted in the internal space and configured to control at least the wireless communication unit, the light detection unit, and the display unit. The control unit is configured to cause the display unit to display that it is in an abnormal state when the light detection unit detects light.

[0010] The method for suppressing unauthorized use of a relay device according to the second perspective includes a plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space, an antenna configured to mutually convert current and radio waves, a wireless communication unit mounted in the internal space and configured to perform communication processing with a terminal wirelessly connected via the antenna, a plurality of cover parts attached to each of the plurality of casings in the internal space and configured to create a darkroom space where light does not enter when the plurality of casings are properly combined, a light detection unit mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light, a display unit configured to display information, and a control unit mounted in the internal space and configured to control at least the wireless communication unit, the light detection unit, and the display unit. The method for suppressing unauthorized use suppresses unauthorized use of the relay device. When the control unit detects light with the light detection unit, the control unit causes the display unit to display that it is in an abnormal state.

[0011] The program according to the third perspective includes a plurality of casings combined to cover the internal space, an antenna configured to mutually convert current and radio waves, a wireless communication unit implemented in the internal space and configured to perform communication processing with a terminal wirelessly connected via the antenna, a plurality of cover parts attached to each of the plurality of casings in the internal space and configured to create a darkroom space where light does not enter when the plurality of casings are properly combined, a light detection unit implemented in the darkroom space and configured to detect light, a display unit configured to display information, and a control unit implemented in the internal space and configured to control at least the wireless communication unit, the light detection unit, and the display unit. The program causes the control unit of the relay device to execute a process of causing the display unit to display that it is in an abnormal state when the light detection unit detects light.

[0012] Note that the program can be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can be a non-transient one such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, etc. Also, in the present disclosure, it is possible to embody it as a computer program product. The program is input into a computer device via an input device or from the outside via a communication interface, stored in a storage device, drives a processor according to a predetermined step or process, and can display the processing result including intermediate states step by step via a display device as needed, or communicate with the outside via a communication interface. A computer device for that purpose typically includes a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and a display device that can be connected to each other by a bus as an example.

Advantages of the Invention

[0013] According to the first to third perspectives, it is possible to contribute to reliably detecting a modification in which the casing is opened.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0014]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present application, when reference numerals are attached to the drawings, they are solely for the purpose of assisting understanding and are not intended to limit the illustrated embodiments. Further, the following embodiments are merely examples and do not limit the present invention. Also, the connection lines between blocks such as the drawings referred to in the following description include both bidirectional and unidirectional ones. Regarding the one-way arrow, it schematically shows the flow of the main signal (data) and does not exclude bidirectionality. Furthermore, in the circuit diagrams, block diagrams, internal configuration diagrams, connection diagrams, etc. shown in the present application disclosure, although not explicitly shown, input ports and output ports exist at the input ends and output ends of each connection line respectively. The same applies to the input / output interface. The program is executed via a computer device, and the computer device includes, for example, a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and a display device if necessary. The computer device is configured to be able to communicate with devices inside or outside the device (including computers) via the communication interface, whether wired or wireless.

[0016] [Embodiment 1] The relay device according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing an example of the external configuration of the relay device according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the configuration in a correctly incorporated state of the relay device according to Embodiment 1.

[0017] The relay device 10 is a device that relays between terminals such as a smartphone 50 and a personal computer (60 in FIG. 3) and a line termination device (70 in FIG. 3) of the Internet (80 in FIG. 3) (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The relay device 10 may perform relaying between wired-wired, wireless-wired, wireless-wireless, or combinations thereof. The relay device 10 can be used at a user's home, office, etc. Examples of the relay device 10 include a wireless LAN router and a gateway device. In the first embodiment, a gateway device with a wireless LAN will be described as an example of the relay device 10. The relay device 10 has a configuration that can suppress unauthorized use such as device disassembly by the user, hardware modification of the module board 13 and the casings 11 and 12, and software modification. The relay device 10 includes casings 11 and 12, a module board 13, a photodetection unit 14, cover parts 15 and 16, an antenna 17, and a cable 18.

[0018] The casings 11 and 12 are structural members that cover and mount circuit components (electronic components such as the module board 13, the photodetection unit 14, the antenna 17, and the cable 18) and the cover parts 15 and 16 inside (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The casing 11 and the casing 12 are configured to be combinable with their inner sides facing each other. In FIGS. 1 and 2, a configuration is shown in which two casings 11 and 12 are combined in one relay device 10, but a configuration in which three or more casings are combined may also be used. The casings 11 and 12 are combined to cover the internal space, and the circuit components are mounted in the internal space. The casing 11 may be integrated with the cover part 15, or may be configured to have the cover part 15 attached (assembled, adhered, welded, engaged, etc.). The casing 12 may be integrated with the cover part 16, or may be configured to have the cover part 16 attached.

[0019] The module substrate 13 is a substrate on which electronic components, connectors, etc. for performing relay processing between terminals such as the smartphone 50 and the personal computer 60 and the Internet 80 are mounted (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The module substrate 13 is mounted inside the combined casings 11 and 12. The module substrate 13 is mounted inside the casings 11 and 12, for example, by attaching (screwing, engaging, etc.) to one of the casings 11 and 12 or by sandwiching it between the casings 11 and 12. The module substrate 13 is arranged so as not to contact the cover portions 15 and 16 when the casings 11 and 12 are combined. The module substrate 13 may be mounted with the light detection unit 14. The module substrate 13 is electrically connected to the antenna 17 via the cable 18. The detailed configuration of the module substrate 13 will be described later.

[0020] The light detection unit 14 is a functional unit for detecting light (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The light detection unit 14 is arranged in a darkroom space covered at least by the cover portions 15 and 16, and may also be covered by the casings 11 and 12 and the module substrate 13. The light detection unit 14 is electrically connected to the module substrate 13. Although the light detection unit 14 is mounted on the module substrate 13 in FIGS. 1 and 2, it may be electrically connected to the module substrate 13 via a cable, a connector, etc. and attached to the casings 11 and 12 and the cover portions 15 and 16. The light detection unit 14 is arranged so that the brightness around the light detection unit 14 becomes sufficiently dark (no light hits) when the module substrate 13 and the casings 11 and 12 are properly combined. The detailed configuration of the light detection unit 14 will be described later.

[0021] The cover parts 15 and 16 are structural parts that cover the light detection part 14 when the casings 11 and 12 are combined and block the light to the light detection part 14 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The cover part 15 may be integrated with the casing 11 or may be configured to be attached (assembled, adhered, welded, engaged, etc.) to the casing 11. The cover part 16 may be integrated with the casing 12 or may be configured to be attached to the casing 12. The cover parts 15 and 16 are configured to block the light to the light detection part 14 on the module substrate 13 when the module substrate 13 is properly incorporated into the two casings 11 and 12 as shown in FIG. 2, and to create a darkroom space that darkens the periphery of the light detection part 14. Thereby, when the relay device 10 is operated in a state where it is not properly incorporated, the light detection part 14 can detect the ambient brightness and control (limit) the operation of the relay device 10 based on the detected brightness.

[0022] The antenna 17 is a structure that mutually converts current and radio waves (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The antenna 17 is communicably connected to the smartphone 50 via a wireless LAN. The antenna 17 is electrically connected to the module substrate 13 via a cable 18. The antenna 17 is mounted inside the casings 11 and 12 in FIG. 2, but may be configured to be attached outside the casings 11 and 12.

[0023] In the relay device 10 as described above, using the casings 11 and 12, the module substrate 13, and the cover parts 15 and 16, the module substrate 13 is arranged at the correct position inside the casings 11 and 12 when the casings 11 and 12 are combined, and the light to the light detection part 14 is blocked when the cover parts 15 and 16 are combined. Also, in the relay device 10, when the casings 11 and 12 are disassembled, when the casings 11 and 12, the module substrate 13, or the cover parts 15 and 16 are not properly combined, or when the cover parts 15 and 16 are insufficient, a mechanism is provided such that the structure that blocks the light to the light detection part 14 is removed.

[0024] Next, the circuit configuration of the relay device according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the circuit configuration of the relay device according to Embodiment 1 and its peripheral configuration. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing a detailed circuit configuration among the photodetection unit, the power supply circuit unit, and the wireless communication unit in the relay device according to Embodiment 1.

[0025] In the circuit configuration of the module substrate 13, the relay device 10 includes a WAN (Wide Area Network) port 21, a LAN (Local Area Network) port 22, a control unit 23, a wired communication unit 24, a wireless communication unit 25, a storage unit 26, a display unit 27, a switch unit 28, a power supply circuit unit 29, a photodetection unit 14, an antenna 17, and a cable 18 (see FIG. 3).

[0026] The WAN port 21 is a port communicably connected to the line termination device 70 for connecting to the Internet 80 (see FIG. 3). The WAN port 21 is communicably connected to the wired communication unit 24 and is controlled by the wired communication unit 24.

[0027] The LAN port 22 is a port communicably connected by wire to a terminal such as a personal computer 60 (see FIG. 3). Although there are a plurality of LAN ports 22 in FIG. 3, there may be one. The LAN port 22 is communicably connected to the wired communication unit 24 and is controlled by the wired communication unit 24.

[0028] The control unit 23 is a functional unit that controls the wired communication unit 24, the wireless communication unit 25, the storage unit 26, the display unit 27, the switch unit 28, and the photodetection unit 14 (see FIG. 3). The control unit 23 performs predetermined control and information processing by executing a predetermined program stored in the storage unit 26.

[0029] The wired communication unit 24 is a functional unit that performs communication processing with terminal devices 70 such as line termination devices and personal computers 60 connected by wire (wired WAN, wired LAN) to the WAN port 21 and the LAN port 22 (see FIG. 3). The wired communication unit 24 is controlled by the control unit 23 and controls the WAN port 21 and the LAN port 22.

[0030] The wireless communication unit 25 is a functional unit that performs communication processing with terminal devices 50 such as smartphones connected by wireless LAN via the antenna 17 (see FIGS. 3 and 4). The wireless communication unit 25 is electrically connected to the antenna 17 via the cable 18. The wireless communication unit 25 is controlled by the control unit 23. The wireless communication unit 25 is power-controlled by the power circuit unit 29.

[0031] The storage unit 26 is a functional unit that stores various kinds of information (see FIG. 3). The storage unit 26 stores programs and setting information. The storage unit 26 is controlled by the control unit 23.

[0032] The display unit 27 is a functional unit that displays information (see FIG. 3). As the display unit 27, for example, a display, a light-emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) can be used. The display unit 27 is controlled by the control unit 23. The display unit 27 may display the operating state of the relay device 10 (it may also be displayed by emitting light in a predetermined color, blinking, etc.). The display unit 27 may display that the relay device 10 is abnormal (abnormal) due to disassembly or processing when the light detection unit 14 detects light.

[0033] The switch unit 28 is a functional unit that switches the operating mode of the relay device 10 or initializes it by a user's operation (see FIG. 3). As the switch unit 28, for example, a push switch, a touch sensor, etc. can be used. The switch unit 28 is controlled by the control unit 23.

[0034] The power supply circuit section 29 is a circuit section that generates electric power to be supplied to various electronic components that constitute the WAN port 21, the LAN port 22, the control section 23, the wired communication section 24, the wireless communication section 25, the memory section 26, the display section 27, the switch section 28, and the light detection section 14 (see FIG. 3). The power supply circuit section 29 includes a power supply control section 41 and a wireless power output section 42 in a circuit between the light detection section 14 and the wireless communication section 25.

[0035] The power supply control section 41 is a functional section that controls (limits) the electric power output from the wireless power output section 42 when the light detection section 14 detects light (see FIG. 4). The wireless power output section 42 is a functional section that outputs electric power toward the wireless communication section 25 in accordance with the power control of the power supply control section 41 (see FIG. 4).

[0036] As the light detection section 14, for example, one in which a photoresistor 31 (for example, a CdS (cadmium sulfide) cell) and a resistor 32 (for example, 10 kΩ) are connected in series between a power supply 33 (for example, 3.3 V) and a ground 34 can be used. When the light hitting the photoresistor 31 is strong and bright, the resistance value of the photoresistor 31 becomes as small as about 10 kΩ. When the light hitting the photoresistor 31 is weak (dark), the resistance value of the photoresistor 31 becomes as large as 1000 kΩ. The light detection section 14 is branched from the wiring between the photoresistor 31 and the resistor 32 and connected to the power supply circuit section 29.

[0037] In the circuit configuration of the light detection section 14, the power supply circuit section 29, and the wireless communication section 25 as shown in FIG. 4, when the module substrate 13 and the casings 11 and 12 are normally incorporated as shown in FIG. 2, the light detection section 14 becomes in a dark state. Therefore, the resistance value of the photoresistor 31 of the light detection section 14 becomes as large as 1000 kΩ, and the input voltage value of the terminal connected to the power supply control section 41 becomes about 1.65 V, resulting in a low voltage state. At this time, the power supply control section 41 determines from the input voltage value that it is in a normally incorporated state, enables the power output of the wireless power output section 42, and supplies power to the wireless communication section 25, thereby enabling the wireless communication operation of the relay device 10.

[0038] On the other hand, when the casings 11 and 12 are disassembled and the light detection unit 14 is irradiated with light and is in a bright state, the resistance value of the photoresistor 31 becomes as small as 10 kΩ. As a result, the input voltage value at the terminal of the power supply control unit 41 becomes approximately 3.2 V, and the voltage is in a high state. At this time, the power supply control unit 41 determines from the input voltage value that the incorporated state is abnormal, and disables the power output of the wireless power output unit 42, thereby stopping the power supply to the wireless communication unit 25 and stopping the wireless communication operation.

[0039] In this way, the wireless LAN communication device determines whether or not the user has intentionally taken measures such as disassembling the device based on the signal from the light detection unit 14, and for those that may be subject to hardware modification or software modification, etc., by using the signal from the light detection unit 14 to stop the power supply to the wireless communication unit 25, a measure is taken to stop the wireless communication operation of the relay device.

[0040] According to Embodiment 1, in the relay device 10, since the light detection unit 14 arranged to be covered by the cover parts 15 and 16 can determine whether the module substrate 13 is properly incorporated into the casings 11 and 12, it can contribute to reliably detecting the modification of opening the casings 11 and 12 due to unauthorized disassembly.

[0041] Also, according to Embodiment 1, in the relay device 10, since the light detection unit 14 arranged to be covered by the cover parts 15 and 16 can determine whether physical processing has been performed on the casings 11 and 12, it is possible to prevent the casings 11 and 12 from being illegally processed and used.

[0042] Also, according to Embodiment 1, in the relay device 10, by suppressing the unauthorized disassembly and use of the casings 11 and 12, it is possible to suppress attempts by the user to disassemble the relay device 10 and perform measures such as hardware modification and software modification.

[0043] Further, according to Embodiment 1, it is possible to suppress measures such as disassembling and modifying the casings 11 and 12 of the relay device 10 by the user. Therefore, it is possible to prevent hardware modification and software modification by the user and maintain the characteristics at the time of design.

[0044] Further, according to Embodiment 1, in the relay device 10, even when there are mechanical components or sub-boards other than the module board 13 that are arranged to be covered by the cover parts 15 and 16, it is possible to determine whether the relay device 10 is in a state of being normally incorporated. Therefore, when assembly accuracy is required, it is possible to ensure accuracy.

[0045] Further, according to Embodiment 1, it is possible to determine whether the relay device 10 is in a state of being normally incorporated based on the circuit configurations of the light detection unit 14, the power supply circuit unit 29, and the wireless communication unit 25. Therefore, it can be used without software control.

[0046] Further, according to Embodiment 1, by confirming that the relay device 10 has been disassembled by the user, or that the module board 13 of the relay device 10 is not normally incorporated into the casings 11 and 12, or that the casings 11 and 12 are in an abnormal state where they have been physically processed or damaged, it is possible to suppress unauthorized modification by the user and suppress the use in an unauthorized modification state.

[0047] Further, according to Embodiment 1, by adding the cover parts 15 and 16 and the light detection unit 14 to the relay device 10, when the casings 11 and 12 of the relay device 10 are disassembled by the user and any attempt at modification is made, the relay device 10 can automatically determine this and impose restrictions on its operation, thereby making it possible to suppress unauthorized use of the wireless LAN communication device.

[0048] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, by using the light detection unit 14, it is possible to make the components that determine the operation restrictions difficult to understand in unauthorized use by malicious users.

[0049] [Embodiment 2] The relay device according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 5 is a developed perspective view schematically showing an example of the external configuration of the relay device according to Embodiment 2. FIG. 6 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the circuit configuration of the relay device according to Embodiment 2 and the configuration around it.

[0050] Embodiment 2 is a modification of Embodiment 1. In the production factory of the relay device 10, when incorporating a sub-board and mechanical components into the casings 11 and 12 in addition to the module board 13, the light detection unit 14 is arranged at locations where incorporation accuracy is required (see FIG. 5). For example, in the relay device 10, the incorporation position of the antenna 17 into the casings 11 and 12 affects the wireless characteristics, so accuracy is required for incorporation into the correct locations of the casings 11 and 12. When the module board 13 and the antenna 17 are incorporated into the correct locations with respect to the casings 11 and 12, the light detection unit 14 is completely covered by the module board 13, the antenna 17, and the cover parts 15 and 16 so that light does not hit the light detection unit 14. When the antenna 17 is incorporated into an incorrect location in the casings 11 and 12, light is made to hit the light detection unit 14. The light detection unit 14 is electrically connected to the module board 13 via a cable 18.

[0051] In Embodiment 2, the signal from the light detection unit 14 that has detected light is received not by the power supply circuit unit 29 but by the control unit 23, and the control unit 23 controls (limits, disables, stops) the function of the wireless communication unit 25 (see FIG. 6). Further, the control unit 23 that has received the light detection signal from the light detection unit 14 that has detected light stores history information (receiving date and time, receiving time, number of receptions, etc.) regarding the light detection signal in the storage unit 26. In the control unit 23, by using the history information, not only while the light detection unit 14 is detecting light (detecting an abnormal incorporation of the relay device 10), but also after the abnormal incorporation of the relay device 10 has been resolved, the control unit 23 keeps the function of the wireless communication unit 25 disabled, and only the manufacturer can release the disabling of the function of the wireless communication unit 25. Further, by the control unit 23 processing the brightness information detected by the light detection unit 14, when the light detection unit 14 detects light and the relay device 10 has been illegally disassembled, modified, etc. by the user, the display unit 27 of the relay device 10 displays to the user that the relay device 10 is in an abnormal state.

[0052] Other configurations are the same as those in Embodiment 1.

[0053] Next, the operation when determining the incorporation state of the relay device according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 7 is a flowchart diagram schematically showing the operation when determining the incorporation state of the relay device according to Embodiment 2. For the configuration of the relay device, refer to FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0054] First, the operator performs the incorporation of the relay device 10 (step A1).

[0055] Next, the operator starts the operation of the relay device 10 (turns on the power) for inspection (step A2), and accordingly, the light detection unit 14 also starts operating (step A3).

[0056] Next, it is determined whether the light detection unit 14 is detecting light (whether the incorporation state of the relay device 10 is abnormal) (step A4).

[0057] When the light detection unit 14 is detecting light (the built-in state is abnormal) (YES in step A4), the control unit 23 receives a light detection signal from the light detection unit 14, determines that it is an abnormal state such as disassembly of the relay device 10, hardware modification of the module substrate 13 and the casings 11 and 12, software modification, etc., and causes the display unit 27 to display that it is an abnormal state (step A5). Thereby, it is possible to prompt the operator to perform recombination.

[0058] Next, the control unit 23 restricts (stops) the operation of the relay device 10 (step A6).

[0059] Next, the operator terminates (turns off the power) the operation of the relay device 10 (step A7), and then returns to step A1, and the operator will perform recombination of the relay device 10.

[0060] When the light detection unit 14 is not detecting light (the built-in state is normal) (NO in step A4), the control unit 23 does not receive a light detection signal from the light detection unit 14, determines that the relay device 10 is in a normal state, and continues the normal operation of the relay device 10 (step A8). Thereby, the accuracy of the installation position of the antenna 17 of the relay device 10 can be improved.

[0061] Finally, the operator terminates (turns off the power) the operation of the relay device 10 (step A9), and then terminates.

[0062] According to Embodiment 2, similar to Embodiment 1, it can contribute to reliably detecting the modification of opening the casings 11 and 12, and determines whether the built-in state of the relay device 10 is normal or not, and causes the display unit 27 to display that the built-in state is an abnormal state. Therefore, when accuracy is required for the installation position of components in the relay device 10, if the built-in state is an abnormal state, it prompts the operator to perform recombination, can improve the accuracy in the manufacturing process (especially the installation accuracy of the antenna 17), and can ensure the wireless characteristics as designed.

[0063] In addition, according to Embodiment 2, since it is determined whether the incorporated state of the relay device 10 is normal, it is possible to encourage the user to use it in a normal state and to deter unauthorized use by the user (such as device disassembly, physical processing, etc.).

[0064] [Embodiment 3] The relay device according to Embodiment 3 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the correctly incorporated state of the relay device according to Embodiment 3. FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the circuit configuration of the relay device according to Embodiment 3 and the configuration around it.

[0065] Embodiment 3 is a modification of Embodiment 2, and a light emitting unit 20 (for example, LED: Light Emitting Diode) is added (see FIGS. 8 and 9). Since the relay device 10 is not always used in a bright place, the light emitting unit 20 is provided so that light can be detected when the incorporated state of the relay device 10 is abnormal even in a dark environment where the light detection unit 14 does not detect an abnormality. The light emitting unit 20 lights up (it can be constantly lit or blink) when the relay device 10 is operating (when the power is on). The light detection unit 14 is covered with cover parts 15 and 16 so as not to detect the light of the light emitting unit 20. When the module substrate 13 and the antenna 17 are correctly incorporated into the casings 11 and 12, the light detection unit 14 is made not to detect the light of the light emitting unit 20. When the casings 11 and 12 are in a disassembled state or the module substrate 13 and the antenna 17 are not incorporated in the correct positions of the casings 11 and 12, the light detection unit 14 detects the light of the light emitting unit 20. Other configurations and operations are the same as those in Embodiment 2. Note that the configuration of the light emitting unit 20 in Embodiment 3 may be applied to Embodiment 1.

[0066] According to Embodiment 3, similar to Embodiment 1, it is possible to contribute to reliably detecting unauthorized modification of opening the casings 11 and 12, and it is possible to determine that the incorporated state of the relay device 10 is abnormal by the light emitting unit 20 even in a dark environment. Therefore, the inhibitory power against disassembling and unauthorized modification of the relay device 10 can be further enhanced.

[0067] [Embodiment 4] The relay device according to Embodiment 4 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 10 is a block diagram schematically showing the circuit configuration of the relay device according to Embodiment 4.

[0068] The relay device 10 is a device that relays communication with the terminal 50 (see FIG. 10). The relay device 10 includes a plurality of casings 11 and 12, an antenna 17, a wireless communication unit 25, a plurality of cover parts 15 and 16, a light detection unit 14, and a control unit 23.

[0069] The casings 11 and 12 are combined to cover the internal space. The antenna 17 is configured to mutually convert current and radio waves. The wireless communication unit 25 is mounted in the internal space and is configured to perform communication processing with the terminal 50 wirelessly connected via the antenna 17. The cover parts 15 and 16 are attached to each of the plurality of casings 11 and 12 in the internal space, and are configured to create a darkroom space where light does not enter when the plurality of casings 11 and 12 are properly combined. The light detection unit 14 is mounted in the darkroom space and is configured to detect light. The display unit 27 is configured to display information. The control unit 23 is mounted in the internal space and is configured to control at least the wireless communication unit 25, the light detection unit 14, and the display unit 27. The control unit 23 is configured to cause the display unit 27 to display that it is in an abnormal state when the light detection unit 14 detects light.

[0070] According to Embodiment 4, in the relay device 10, the light detection unit 14 arranged to be covered by the cover parts 15 and 16 can determine whether the casings 11 and 12 are properly incorporated, thus contributing to reliably detecting any modification that opens the casings 11 and 12 by unauthorized disassembly.

[0071] Note that the relay device according to Embodiments 1 to 4 can be configured by so-called hardware resources (information processing devices, computers), and those having the configuration illustrated in FIG. 11 can be used. For example, the hardware resource 100 includes a processor 101, a memory 102, a network interface 103, etc., which are interconnected by an internal bus 104.

[0072] Note that the configuration shown in FIG. 11 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the hardware resource 100. The hardware resource 100 may include hardware not shown (for example, an input / output interface). Alternatively, the number of units such as the processor 101 included in the device is not intended to be limited to the example shown in FIG. 11. For example, a plurality of processors 101 may be included in the hardware resource 100. As the processor 101, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processor Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc. can be used.

[0073] As the memory 102, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. can be used.

[0074] As the network interface 103, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) card, a network adapter, a network interface card, etc. can be used.

[0075] The functions of the hardware resource 100 are realized by the above-described processing modules. The processing modules are realized, for example, by the processor 101 executing a program stored in the memory 102. Also, the program can be downloaded via a network or updated using a storage medium storing the program. Further, the above-described processing modules may be realized by semiconductor chips. That is, the functions performed by the above-described processing modules may be realized as long as software is executed in some hardware.

[0076] Some or all of the above embodiments may be described as follows in the appended claims, but are not limited thereto.

[0077] [Appendix 1] A plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space, An antenna configured to mutually convert current and radio waves, A wireless communication unit mounted in the internal space and configured to perform communication processing on a terminal wirelessly connected via the antenna, A plurality of cover parts each attached to each of the plurality of casings in the internal space and configured to create a darkroom space where light does not enter when the plurality of casings are properly combined, A light detection unit mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light, A display unit configured to display information, A control unit mounted in the internal space and configured to control at least the wireless communication unit, the light detection unit, and the display unit, comprising The control unit is configured to cause the display unit to display that it is in an abnormal state when the light detection unit detects light. Relay device. [Appendix 2] A power supply circuit unit that is implemented in the internal space and is configured to limit the power output to the wireless communication unit when the light detection unit detects light. The relay device according to Supplementary Note 1. [Supplementary Note 3] The light detection unit has a configuration in which a photoresistor and a resistor are connected in series between a power supply and ground. The power supply circuit unit is electrically connected to the connection point between the photoresistor and the resistor. The relay device according to Supplementary Note 2. [Supplementary Note 4] The power supply circuit unit A power supply control unit configured to limit power when the light detection unit detects light, A wireless power output unit configured to limit the power output to the wireless communication unit according to the power limitation of the power supply control unit, The relay device according to Supplementary Note 3, comprising the above. [Supplementary Note 5] It is implemented in the internal space and includes a storage unit for storing information. The control unit is configured to store history information regarding the light detection signal in the storage unit when receiving the light detection signal when the light detection unit detects light. The relay device according to Supplementary Note 1. [Supplementary Note 6] The control unit is configured to limit the operation of the wireless communication unit when receiving the light detection signal when the light detection unit detects light. The relay device according to Supplementary Note 1. [Supplementary Note 7] After limiting the operation of the wireless communication unit, the control unit is configured to keep the operation of the wireless communication unit limited even when the light detection signal from the light detection unit disappears. The relay device according to Supplementary Note 6. [Supplementary Note 8] The antenna is implemented in the internal space. The light detection unit is attached to the cover unit or the casing, electrically connected to the control unit via a cable, and disposed in the darkroom space covered at least by the cover unit and the antenna so that light does not hit in a state where the plurality of casings are properly combined. The relay device according to appended note 1. [Appended note 9] It includes a light emitting unit that is mounted in the internal space and configured to light up when the relay device is powered on. The relay device according to any one of appended notes 1 to 8. [Appended note 10] A plurality of casings combined to cover the internal space, An antenna configured to mutually convert current and radio waves, A wireless communication unit that is mounted in the internal space and configured to perform communication processing with a terminal wirelessly connected via the antenna, A plurality of cover units that are attached to each of the plurality of casings in the internal space and configured to create a darkroom space where light does not enter when the plurality of casings are properly combined, A light detection unit that is mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light, A display unit configured to display information, A control unit that is mounted in the internal space and configured to control at least the wireless communication unit, the light detection unit, and the display unit, An unauthorized use suppression method for suppressing unauthorized use of a relay device including: When the control unit detects light with the light detection unit, causing the display unit to display that it is in an abnormal state. Unauthorized use suppression method for a relay device. [Appended note 11] A plurality of casings combined to cover the internal space, An antenna configured to mutually convert current and radio waves, A wireless communication unit that is implemented in the internal space and configured to perform communication processing with a terminal wirelessly connected via the antenna; A plurality of cover parts that are attached to each of the plurality of casings in the internal space and configured to create a darkroom space where light does not enter when the plurality of casings are properly combined; A light detection unit that is implemented in the darkroom space and configured to detect light; A display unit configured to display information; A control unit that is implemented in the internal space and configured to control at least the wireless communication unit, the light detection unit, and the display unit; A program for causing the control unit of a relay device including the above to execute, A program for causing the control unit to execute a process of causing the display unit to display that it is in an abnormal state when the light detection unit detects light.

[0078] Note that the disclosure of the above patent document is incorporated herein by reference and can be used as the basis or part of the present invention as necessary. Within the scope of the entire disclosure of the present invention (including the claims and the drawings), further modifications and adjustments of the embodiments or examples can be made based on the basic technical idea. Also, within the scope of the entire disclosure of the present invention, various combinations or selections (including non-selections if necessary) of various disclosure elements (including each element of each claim, each element of each embodiment or example, each element of each drawing, etc.) are possible. That is, the present invention naturally includes various deformations and modifications that a person skilled in the art could make according to the entire disclosure including the claims and the drawings and the technical idea. Also, regarding the numerical values and numerical ranges described in the present application, even if not explicitly stated, any intermediate value, lower numerical value, and small range are considered to be described. Furthermore, each disclosure item of the above-cited document is also considered to be included in (belong to) the disclosure of the present application and can be used in combination with the description items of this document as part of the disclosure of the present invention according to the spirit of the present invention as necessary.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0079] 10 Relay device 11, 12 Casing 13 Module substrate 14 Photodetector 15, 16 Cover part 17 Antenna 18, 19 Cable 20 Light emitting part 21 WAN port 22 LAN port 23 Control part 24 Wired communication part 25 Wireless communication part 26 Memory part 27 Display part 28 Switch part 29 Power supply circuit part 31 Photoresistor 32 Resistor 33 Power supply 34 Grounding 41 Power supply control part 42 Wireless power output part 50 Smartphone (terminal) 60 Personal computer 70 Line termination device 80 Internet 100 Hardware resources 101 Processor 102 Memory 103 Network interface 104 Internal bus

Claims

1. A plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space, an antenna configured to mutually convert current and radio waves, a wireless communication unit implemented in the internal space and configured to perform communication processing on a terminal wirelessly connected via the antenna, a plurality of cover parts attached to each of the plurality of casings in the internal space and configured to create a darkroom space where light does not enter when the plurality of casings are properly combined, a light detection unit implemented in the darkroom space and configured to detect light, a display unit configured to display information, a control unit implemented in the internal space and configured to control at least the wireless communication unit, the light detection unit, and the display unit, comprising: the control unit is configured to cause the display unit to display that it is in an abnormal state when the light detection unit detects light, a power supply circuit unit implemented in the internal space and configured to limit the power output to the wireless communication unit when the light detection unit detects light, the light detection unit has a configuration in which a photoresistor and a resistor are connected in series between a power supply and ground, the power supply circuit unit is electrically connected to a contact point between the photoresistor and the resistor, a relay device.

2. The power supply circuit unit includes a power supply control unit configured to limit power when the light detection unit detects light, and a wireless power output unit configured to limit the power output toward the wireless communication unit according to the power limitation of the power supply control unit, The relay device according to claim 1.

3. implemented in the internal space and including a storage unit for storing information, the control unit is configured to store history information regarding the light detection signal in the storage unit when receiving the light detection signal when the light detection unit detects light, The relay device according to claim 1.

4. the control unit is configured to limit the operation of the wireless communication unit when receiving the light detection signal when the light detection unit detects light, The relay device according to claim 1.

5. the control unit is configured to keep the operation of the wireless communication unit restricted even after the light detection signal from the light detection unit disappears after restricting the operation of the wireless communication unit, The relay device according to claim 4.

6. The antenna is mounted in the internal space, The light detection unit is attached to the cover unit or the casing, is electrically connected to the control unit via a cable, and is arranged in the darkroom space covered at least by the cover unit and the antenna so that light does not hit in a state where the plurality of casings are properly combined. The relay device according to claim 1.

7. It is mounted in the internal space and includes a light emitting unit configured to light up when the relay device is powered on. The relay device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A plurality of casings combined to cover the internal space, An antenna configured to mutually convert current and radio waves, A wireless communication unit that is mounted in the internal space and is configured to perform communication processing with a terminal wirelessly connected via the antenna, A plurality of cover units each attached to each of the plurality of casings in the internal space and configured to create a darkroom space where light does not enter when the plurality of casings are properly combined, A light detection unit that is mounted in the darkroom space and is configured to detect light, A display unit configured to display information, A control unit that is mounted in the internal space and is configured to control at least the wireless communication unit, the light detection unit, and the display unit, An unauthorized use suppression method for suppressing unauthorized use of a relay device including: When the control unit detects light with the light detection unit, causing the display unit to display that it is in an abnormal state, The relay device is further provided with a power supply circuit unit that is mounted in the internal space and is configured to limit the power output to the wireless communication unit when light is detected by the light detection unit. The light detection unit has a configuration in which a photoresistor and a resistor are connected in series between a power supply and a ground. The power supply circuit unit is electrically connected to a contact point between the photoresistor and the resistor. Unauthorized use suppression method for a relay device.

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