Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To enable appropriate apparatus setting processing using wireless communication.SOLUTION: A terminal 10 includes: a reception unit 11 that receives, from a user, feature information indicating a feature, which is a feature of the appearance of an apparatus having one communication module selected from among a plurality of communication modules and is associated with the one communication module; a communication unit 13 that receives wireless identification information associated with the one communication module from the apparatus; and a processing unit 14 that determines whether first information indicating the one communication module associated with the feature indicated in the feature information received by the reception unit 11 matches second information indicating the one communication module associated with the wireless identification information received by the communication unit 13, and executes setting processing related to the one communication module indicated by the second information when determining that they do not match.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] There is a technology in which a printing apparatus or the like activates a software AP (access point) and performs initial settings in cooperation with an information terminal (simply referred to as a terminal) by wireless communication using the software AP (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, a user may misselect a device that is a target for performing setting processes such as initial settings. In that case, there is a problem that the device setting process is not properly performed.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention provides an information processing apparatus that appropriately performs a device setting process using wireless communication.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An information processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a reception unit that receives from a user feature information indicating a feature of the appearance of a device having one communication module selected from a plurality of communication modules, the feature being associated with the one communication module; a communication unit that receives from the device wireless identification information associated with the one communication module; and a processing unit that determines whether first information indicating the one communication module associated with the feature indicated by the feature information received by the reception unit matches second information indicating the one communication module associated with the wireless identification information received by the communication unit, and when it is determined that they do not match, executes setting processing related to the one communication module indicated by the second information.

[0007] Note that these general or specific aspects may be implemented by a system, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or may be implemented by any combination of a system, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, and a recording medium.

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] The information processing apparatus of the present invention can appropriately perform setting processing of a device using wireless communication.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] (Knowledge underlying the present invention) The present inventor has found that the following problems occur in the technology related to the initial setting of devices described in the "Background Art" section.

[0011] There is a technology in which a device starts a software AP, and the device and a terminal cooperate to perform initial setting of the device using wireless communication using the software AP (see Patent Document 1).

[0012] In setting processes such as the initial setting of a device, a guidance image for guiding a user's operation on the device may be displayed on the screen of the terminal. A user who has visually recognized the guidance image can easily understand the operation to be performed on the device, and the setting process of the device can be appropriately performed. In order to display an appropriate guidance image, specific information for identifying the device to be set is required.

[0013] An example of a method for acquiring specific information for identifying a device is to receive an input of specific information, or some information associated with the specific information (for example, a feature of the appearance of the device that can uniquely identify the device) (described as specific information, etc.) from the user.

[0014] However, the user may accidentally input specific information or the like incorrectly. In that case, there is a problem that the setting process such as the initial setting of the device is not properly performed.

[0015] Also, a device may be configured to include a device main body and a remote control. For example, an air conditioner or a television receiver corresponds to the above device. In this case, it is assumed that the device main body and the remote control prepared to control the device main body correspond one-to-one. Such a device main body and a remote control are expressed as a "pair".

[0016] In this case, the user may misidentify the pair of the device main body and the remote control. This will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0017] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the setting process of the device.

[0018] In FIG. 1, devices A and B are shown.

[0019] Device A is configured to include a device main body A1 and a remote control A2. The remote control A2 paired with the device main body A1 can control various functions of the device main body A1.

[0020] Device B is configured to include a device main body B1 and a remote control B2. The remote control B2 paired with the device main body B1 can control various functions of the device main body B1.

[0021] Since the remote control A2 is not paired with the device main body B1, in principle, it cannot control various functions of the device main body B1.

[0022] However, the remote control A2 may exceptionally be able to control the functions common to the device main body A1 and the device main body B1 among the functions of the device main body B1. The above common functions may include, for example, the function of turning on the power of the device, and the function of switching the operation mode such as cooling or heating when the device is an air conditioner.

[0023] In this situation, it is assumed that the device main body B1 starts the software AP, and the device main body B1 and the terminal T cooperate with each other using wireless communication using the software AP to perform the setting process of the device main body B1. Also, it is assumed that the user U tries to perform the setting process of the device main body B1 using the remote controller A2 and the terminal T while misidentifying the remote controller A2 as the remote controller B2 of the device main body B1. Specific information for identifying the device, etc. is, for example, the color of the operation button of the remote controller, and this case will be described as an example.

[0024] In this case, when the user U performs the setting process of the device main body B1, although the color of the operation button B3 of the remote controller B2 should be correctly input as the specific information for identifying the device main body B1, the color of the operation button A3 of the remote controller A2 is input instead. Then, guidance information for guiding the setting of the device main body A1 is displayed on the terminal T. In other words, guidance information for guiding the setting of the device main body B1 is not displayed. As a result, the user U cannot know the operation of the setting process of the device main body B1, leading to the problem that the setting process of the device main body B1 cannot be appropriately performed.

[0025] In order to solve such a problem, an information processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a reception unit that receives from a user feature information indicating a feature of the appearance of a device having one communication module selected from a plurality of communication modules, the feature being associated with the one communication module; a communication unit that receives from the device wireless identification information associated with the one communication module; and a processing unit that determines whether first information indicating the one communication module corresponding to the feature indicated by the feature information received by the reception unit matches second information indicating the one communication module corresponding to the wireless identification information received by the communication unit, and when it is determined that they do not match, executes a setting process regarding the one communication module indicated by the second information.

[0026] According to the above aspect, when the first information based on the user's judgment does not match the second information based on the information transmitted by the device, the information processing apparatus executes the setting process using the second information based on the information transmitted by the device, so that the setting process of the device can be appropriately performed. If the mismatch between the first information and the second information is due to a misjudgment by the user (such as misidentifying or misunderstanding the characteristics of the device), the influence of the misjudgment can be eliminated, and the setting process of the device can be appropriately performed. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can appropriately perform the setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0027] For example, when the reception unit receives the feature information, the information processing apparatus may further include a first presentation unit that presents first guidance information for guiding the user to perform an operation of transmitting the wireless identification information to the device, which is an operation of causing the device to transmit the wireless identification information.

[0028] According to the above aspect, the information processing apparatus prompts the user's operation by the presented first guidance information, which contributes to causing the device to transmit the wireless identification information. Therefore, even when starting from a state where the device has not transmitted the wireless identification information, the information processing apparatus can appropriately perform the setting process of the device by causing the device to transmit the wireless identification information. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily and appropriately perform the setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0029] For example, the first presentation unit may present, as the first guidance information, a guidance image including at least a part of the appearance of the device having the one communication module indicated by the first information.

[0030] According to the above aspect, since the information processing apparatus presents the first guidance information including at least a part of the appearance of the device, the user can more easily grasp the content of the operation to be performed on the device. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily and appropriately perform the setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0031] For example, when the first presentation unit FirstGuide Information After presenting Information , the device may transition to a reception waiting state where it waits to receive the wireless identification information from the device.

[0032] According to the above aspect, since the information processing device transitions to the reception waiting state of the wireless identification information after presenting the first guide information, even when starting from a state that is not the reception waiting state, the wireless identification information can be received. Therefore, the information processing device can more easily perform the appropriate device setting process using wireless communication.

[0033] For example, when the device supports the setting process using a code, the information processing device may further include a second presentation unit that presents guide information for guiding the user to read the code by the information processing device.

[0034] According to the above aspect, the information processing device prompts the user to read the code by presenting the second guide information. This can contribute to reducing the burden of operations by the user that may be required in the setting process through the setting process using the code. Therefore, the information processing device can more easily perform the appropriate device setting process using wireless communication.

[0035] For example, the processing unit may further read the code and execute a setting process using the read code.

[0036] According to the above aspect, the information processing device performs the device setting process using the code based on the reading of the code made by presenting the second guide information. Using the code can contribute to reducing the burden of operations by the user that may be required in the setting process. Therefore, the information processing device can more easily perform the appropriate device setting process using wireless communication.

[0037] For example, the plurality of communication modules may include a first communication module and a second communication module that performs communication with a higher security intensity than the first communication module, and the characteristics of the appearance of the device may include the characteristics of the color of the operation buttons included in the device.

[0038] According to the above aspect, the information processing apparatus can receive an input of the characteristics of the color of the operation buttons included in the device from the user and perform different setting processes according to the security intensity of the communication modules included in the device. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily perform the setting process of the device appropriately using wireless communication.

[0039] For example, the device may include a device main body and a remote controller that wirelessly transmits a signal to the device main body, and the characteristics of the appearance of the device may include the characteristics of the appearance of the remote controller of the device.

[0040] According to the above aspect, when the device is configured to include a device main body and a remote controller, the information processing apparatus can receive an input of the characteristics of the appearance of the remote controller from the user and perform different setting processes according to the security intensity of the communication modules included in the device. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily perform the setting process of the device appropriately using wireless communication.

[0041] For example, when the device has the second communication module, the device may support setting processing using a code.

[0042] According to the above aspect, in the setting process of the second communication module with a higher security intensity than the first communication module, the information processing apparatus performs the setting process of the device using a code. Using a code can contribute to reducing the burden of operations by the user that may be required in the setting process. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily perform the setting process of the device appropriately using wireless communication.

[0043] For example, the wireless identification information may include the Wi-Fi SSID.

[0044] According to the above aspect, by using the SSID of Wi-Fi (registered trademark) as the wireless identification information, the information processing device can more easily receive the wireless identification information and perform the setting process of the communication module. Therefore, the information processing device can more easily perform the appropriate setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0045] For example, when the processing unit determines that the first information matches the second information, the processing unit may execute the setting process related to the one communication module indicated by the first information.

[0046] According to the above aspect, when the first information based on the user's judgment matches the second information based on the information transmitted by the device, the information processing device adopts and executes the setting process based on the user's judgment, so that the setting process of the device can be appropriately performed. Therefore, the information processing device can appropriately perform the setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0047] In addition, an information processing method according to an aspect of the present invention receives, from a user, feature information indicating a feature of the appearance of a device having one communication module selected from a plurality of communication modules, the feature being associated with the one communication module, receives wireless identification information associated with the one communication module from the device, and determines whether first information indicating the one communication module associated with the feature indicated by the received feature information matches second information indicating the one communication module associated with the received wireless identification information. When it is determined that they do not match, the information processing method is to execute a setting process related to the one communication module indicated by the second information.

[0048] According to the above aspect, the same effects as those of the above information processing device are achieved.

[0049] In addition, a program according to an aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to execute the above information processing method.

[0050] According to the above aspect, the same effects as those of the above information processing apparatus are achieved.

[0051] These general or specific aspects may be implemented in a system, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a recording medium such as a computer-readable CD-ROM, or may be implemented in any combination of a system, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a recording medium.

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

[0053] Note that all of the embodiments described below show general or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of the components, steps, order of steps, etc. shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, among the components in the following embodiments, components not described in the independent claims indicating the most general concept are described as optional components.

[0054] (Embodiment) In the present embodiment, an information processing apparatus that appropriately performs device setting processing using wireless communication will be described.

[0055] In the present embodiment, device setting processing using the terminal 10 will be described. An example of the device is the air conditioner 20. The setting processing may include, for example, processing (so-called initial setting) for setting a set value according to the usage environment in the device after the device is placed in the usage environment of the user U.

[0056] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the setting process of the air conditioner 20 in the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing correspondence information indicating the correspondence between the color of the operation button 6 of the remote control 5 of the air conditioner 20 in the present embodiment and the version of the communication module provided in the air conditioner 20. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the SSID included in the beacon transmitted by the air conditioner 20 in the present embodiment. The setting process of the air conditioner 20 will be described with reference to these figures.

[0057] The air conditioner 20 shown in FIG. 2 corresponds to the device main body and includes a remote control 5 for controlling the device main body. The term "device" may include the air conditioner 20 and the remote control 5. Therefore, when referring to an operation on the air conditioner 20, an operation on the remote control 5 is also included. Similarly, when referring to the appearance of the air conditioner 20, the appearance of the remote control 5 is also included.

[0058] The air conditioner 20 has the function of a software AP. The air conditioner 20 receives the setting process by the terminal 10 while performing wireless communication with the terminal 10 using the software AP.

[0059] The air conditioner 20 has one communication module selected from a plurality of communication modules. The plurality of communication modules have different security strengths of wireless communication performed by the communication module, for example. The plurality of communication modules include, for example, a first communication module and a second communication module that performs communication with a higher security strength than the first communication module.

[0060] As specific information for identifying the communication module included in the air conditioner 20, the color of the operation button 6 of the remote controller 5 is used. The color of the operation button 6 of the remote controller 5 included in the air conditioner 20 and the version of the communication module included in the air conditioner 20 are associated in advance. For example, white as the color of the operation button 6 of the remote controller 5 is associated with version 1 of the communication module, and blue as the color of the operation button 6 of the remote controller 5 is associated with version 2 of the communication module (see FIG. 3). Note that, as the above specific information, the shape or arrangement of the operation button 6 included in the air conditioner 20, or the characters or patterns attached to the operation button 6 may also be used.

[0061] Also, the air conditioner 20 wirelessly transmits wireless identification information by the function of the software AP. The wireless identification information is, for example, identification information (such as SSID (Service Set Identifier)) conforming to the communication standard of Wi-Fi (IEEE802.11a, b, g, n, etc.). The wireless identification information is included in the beacon signal repeatedly transmitted by the software AP in which the air conditioner 20 is operating. The wireless identification information transmitted by the air conditioner 20 and the version of the communication module included in the air conditioner 20 are associated in advance. For example, "AC-A" as the SSID is associated with version 1 of the communication module, and "AC-B" as the SSID is associated with version 2 of the communication module (see FIG. 4).

[0062] The appearance of the air conditioner 20 varies according to the communication module included in the air conditioner 20, but it is assumed that it cannot be known from the appearance of the air conditioner 20 which communication module the air conditioner 20 is equipped with. The user U cannot directly know from the appearance of the air conditioner 20 which communication module among the plurality of communication modules the air conditioner 20 is equipped with, and can indirectly know based on the specific information for identifying the air conditioner 20.

[0063] The terminal 10 is an information processing device that has a function of performing setting processing of the air conditioner 20 while performing wireless communication with the air conditioner 20. The terminal 10 is a portable information terminal, for example, a smartphone or a tablet terminal. The above function may be realized as application software (so-called app) operating on a smartphone.

[0064] The user U is trying to proceed with the setting process of the air conditioner 20 while operating the terminal 10. In the setting process of the air conditioner 20, the user U inputs the color of the operation button 6 that the remote control 5 has as specific information for identifying the air conditioner 20 to the terminal 10. Also, the user U visually recognizes the guidance information displayed on the display screen of the terminal 10 and operates the remote control 5 of the air conditioner 20 with reference to the guidance information.

[0065] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the functions of the terminal 10 in the present embodiment.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 5, the terminal 10 includes, as functional units, a reception unit 11, a presentation unit 12, a communication unit 13, and a processing unit 14.

[0067] The reception unit 11 is a functional unit that receives characteristic information from the user U. The characteristic information received by the reception unit 11 is a characteristic of the appearance of the air conditioner 20 and indicates a characteristic associated with the communication module provided in the air conditioner 20. In a device such as the air conditioner 20 that is configured to include a device main body and a remote control, the characteristic of the appearance of the remote control may be treated as a characteristic of the appearance of the air conditioner 20. Here, a case where the characteristic of the color of the operation button of the remote control is used as the characteristic of the appearance of the air conditioner 20 will be described as an example.

[0068] The reception unit 11 can be realized, for example, by a touch panel that receives a touch operation of the user U on the display screen provided in the terminal 10, and a processor (such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), the same hereinafter) that performs information processing using a memory based on the touch operation received by the touch panel. Note that, instead of the touch panel, buttons, a mouse, or the like may be used.

[0069] The presentation unit 12 is a functional unit that presents guidance information. More specifically, when the reception unit 11 receives the feature information, the presentation unit 12 presents guidance information that guides the user U to perform an operation of transmitting the wireless identification information to the air conditioner 20, that is, an operation on the air conditioner 20 (more specifically, an operation on the remote controller 5). The guidance information is, for example, a guidance image that is an image indicating the guidance information, and this case will be described as an example, but it is not limited thereto.

[0070] The above guidance image may include at least a part of the appearance of the air conditioner 20 having a communication module associated with the feature indicated by the feature information received by the reception unit 11 (more specifically, the appearance of the remote controller 5). At least a part of the appearance of the air conditioner 20 included in the guidance image may include a part of the appearance of the air conditioner 20 that differs in appearance according to the communication module. The functional unit that realizes the above function is also referred to as the first presentation unit, and the above guidance image is also referred to as the first guidance image.

[0071] The presentation unit 12 can be realized, for example, by a display screen provided in the terminal 10 and a processor that controls the content displayed on the display screen.

[0072] The communication unit 13 is a functional unit that performs wireless communication. The communication unit 13 receives the wireless identification information transmitted by the air conditioner 20. The above wireless identification information is pre-associated with the communication module of the air conditioner 20. The above wireless identification information is, for example, an SSID (Service Set Identifier) that is identification information conforming to the communication standard of Wi-Fi (IEEE802.11a, b, g, n, etc.). The above wireless identification information is included in the beacon signal repeatedly transmitted by the software AP in which the air conditioner 20 is activated. The communication unit 13 can be realized, for example, by an antenna and a radio circuit that transmit and receive radio communication signals and a processor that controls the radio communication.

[0073] For example, after the presentation unit 12 presents the first guidance image, the communication unit 13 transitions to a reception waiting state in which it waits to receive the wireless identification information from the air conditioner 20. Note that the communication unit 13 is not limited to this, and may be in the above reception waiting state before the presentation unit 12 presents the first guidance image. Specifically, the communication unit 13 may be in the reception waiting state since the terminal 10 is activated.

[0074] The processing unit 14 is a functional unit that executes the setting process of the air conditioner 20. The setting process of the air conditioner 20 includes the setting process related to the communication module of the air conditioner 20. The setting process related to the communication module includes, for example, setting the IP address of the AP that is the connection destination of the communication module. The AP that is the connection destination of the communication module is, for example, the Wi-Fi AP used in the residence when used in the residence.

[0075] The processing unit 14 determines whether information indicating a communication module associated with the feature shown in the feature information received by the reception unit 11 (corresponding to the first information) matches information indicating a communication module associated with the wireless identification information received by the communication unit 13 (corresponding to the second information). When the processing unit 14 determines that the first information matches the second information, the processing unit 14 executes setting processing regarding the communication module indicated by the first information. Further, when the processing unit 14 determines that the first information does not match the second information, the processing unit 14 executes setting processing regarding the communication module indicated by the second information. The above setting processing may be part of the setting processing of the air conditioner 20.

[0076] The processing unit 14 has correspondence information (see, for example, FIG. 3) in which the color of the operation button 6 of the remote controller 5, which is the feature shown in the feature information, is associated with the type of communication module. Further, the processing unit 14 has correspondence information (see, for example, FIG. 4) in which the SSID, which is the wireless identification information transmitted by the air conditioner 20, is associated with the type of communication module. The processing unit 14 makes the above determination using the above correspondence information. Note that the format of the above correspondence information held by the processing unit 14 may be any format, and may be held as a correspondence table as in FIG. 3 or FIG. 4, or may be held as program code representing the above correspondence information as a computer program.

[0077] For example, when the color received by the reception unit 11 is white and the SSID received by the communication unit 13 is AC-A, since both the first information and the second information indicate version 1, the processing unit 14 determines that the first information and the second information match.

[0078] For example, when the color received by the reception unit 11 is white and the SSID received by the communication unit 13 is AC-B, since the first information indicates version 1 and the second information indicates version 2, the processing unit 14 determines that the first information and the second information do not match.

[0079] In addition, when the presentation unit 12 supports the setting process using a code in the air conditioner 20, it presents guidance information (corresponding to the second guidance information) for guiding the user U to read the code by the terminal 10. The above code is a setting information code, and more specifically, it is a two-dimensional code, and can be, for example, a QR code (registered trademark). The above code can be a QR code indicating a setting value related to the setting process or a URL of a website including the setting value related to the setting process. Here, the case where the code is a QR code will be described as an example.

[0080] For example, when the air conditioner 20 has a second communication module, the air conditioner 20 supports the setting process using a QR code. It is assumed that the user U who has visually recognized the guidance information for guiding the reading of the code presented by the presentation unit 12 attempts to read the code using the terminal 10. At this time, the processing unit 14 reads the code based on the operation by the user U and executes the setting process using the read code.

[0081] Hereinafter, the guidance image will be described.

[0082] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an image 30 which is a first example of the guidance image in the present embodiment. The image 30 shown in FIG. 6 is an image displayed on the display screen of the terminal 10, and is an example of an image for guiding the user U to input the color of the operation button 6 of the remote controller 5.

[0083] The image 30 includes an image 31, a message 32, and buttons 33 and 34.

[0084] Image 31 is an image showing the appearance of the remote control 5. In Image 31, the operation button 6 that the remote control 5 has is shown as operation button C. Image 31 may be an image that can be recognized by the user U as either the remote control paired with the air conditioner 20 of version 1 or the remote control paired with the air conditioner 20 of version 2. An image that can be recognized by the user U as either of the above two remote controls is, for example, an image that has been subjected to image processing so that differences in appearance between the two remote controls are not recognized, and can also be said to be an image in which detailed drawing of parts where there are differences in appearance between the two remote controls is omitted.

[0085] In addition, if there are no significant differences between the above two remote controls, Image 31 may be an image showing the appearance of the remote control paired with the air conditioner 20 of version 1, or may be an image showing the appearance of the remote control paired with the air conditioner 20 of version 2.

[0086] Message 32 is a message that prompts the user U to input the color of the operation button 6 that the remote control 5 has. Message 32 is a message that prompts the user to confirm the color of the operation button 6, for example, like "Please confirm the color of operation button C on the remote control". It is assumed that the user U who has confirmed the color of the operation button 6 inputs the color of the operation button 6 using button 33 or 34.

[0087] Button 33 is a button that receives the input from the user U regarding the color of the operation button 6. Button 33 receives the input that the color of the operation button 6 is white.

[0088] Button 34 is a button that receives the input from the user U regarding the color of the operation button 6. Button 34 receives the input that the color of the operation button 6 is blue.

[0089] When button 33 or 34 is operated by user U, terminal 10 executes different setting processes according to the color of operation button 6 of remote controller 5. Based on the correspondence information (see FIG. 3), when the color of operation button 6 is white, terminal 10 executes a setting process for setting the communication module of version 1, and when the color of operation button 6 is blue, terminal 10 executes a setting process for setting the communication module of version 2.

[0090] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing image 40 which is a second example of the guidance image in the present embodiment. Image 40 shown in FIG. 7 is an example of an image used for the setting process of air conditioner 20 equipped with a communication module of version 1.

[0091] Image 40 includes operation information 41, image 42, and button 43.

[0092] Operation information 41 is information indicating the operation to be performed by user U. For example, operation information 41 indicates the operation button to be operated by user U and the mode of the operation to be performed on the operation button. The mode of the operation includes, for example, the act of the operation (press, tap, move or drag, etc.), the number of operations, or the time taken for the operation. Specifically, operation information 41 is the information "Please press operation button D4." Note that operation information 41 may include the mode of the operation, such as "Please press operation button D5 briefly." or "Please press operation button D6 for 5 seconds."

[0093] Image 42 is an image showing the appearance of remote controller 5. In image 42, operation buttons D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, and D6 are shown as operation buttons 6 that remote controller 5 has. Image 42 is an image showing the appearance of remote controller 5 paired with air conditioner 20 equipped with a communication module of version 1.

[0094] Button 43 is a button that receives an input of an operation from user U to move to the next operation. Button 43 is displayed when there is an operation following operation information 41, and when button 43 is operated, a guidance image that guides the operation following operation information 41 is displayed.

[0095] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an image 50 which is a third example of the guidance image in the present embodiment. The image 50 shown in FIG. 8 is an example of an image used for the setting process of the air conditioner 20 including the communication module of version 2.

[0096] Image 50 includes operation information 51, image 52, and button 53.

[0097] Operation information 51 is information indicating an operation to be performed by user U. Similar to operation information 41, operation information 51 indicates an operation to be performed by user U, but the content thereof relates to the setting of the air conditioner 20 including the communication module of version 2 and is different from the content shown in operation information 41.

[0098] For example, similar to operation information 41, operation information 51 indicates an operation button to be operated by user U and the mode of the operation to be performed on the operation button. Specifically, operation information 51 is information such as "Please press operation button E1." Note that operation information 51 may include the mode of the operation, such as "Please press and hold operation button E2 for a long time." or "Please press operation button E3 for 2 seconds."

[0099] Image 52 is an image showing the appearance of the remote controller 5. In image 52, operation buttons E1, E2, E3, E4, E5, and E6 are shown as operation buttons 6 that the remote controller 5 has. Image 52 is an image showing the appearance of the remote controller 5 that is paired with the air conditioner 20 including the communication module of version 2.

[0100] Button 53 is a button that receives input of an operation from user U to move to the next operation. Button 53 is displayed when there is an operation following operation information 51, and when button 53 is operated, a guidance image that guides the operation following operation information 51 is displayed.

[0101] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the processing of terminal 10 in the present embodiment.

[0102] In step S101, presenting unit 12 displays a guidance image for guiding input of the color of operation button 6 of remote controller 5 on the display screen.

[0103] In step S102, presenting unit 12 receives input of the color of operation button 6 of remote controller 5 from user U. The above input may be made by user U visually recognizing the guidance image displayed in step S101 and following the guidance image.

[0104] In step S103, processing unit 14 determines whether the color of operation button 6 received in step S102 is white or blue. If it is determined that the color of operation button 6 is white (in step S103, "white"), the process proceeds to step S104. If it is determined that the color is blue (in step S103, "blue"), the process proceeds to step S111.

[0105] In step S104, presenting unit 12 displays a guidance image for guiding an operation to cause air conditioner 20 having communication module of version 1 to transmit a beacon.

[0106] In step S105, communication unit 13 transitions to the beacon reception waiting state. If communication unit 13 is already in the beacon reception waiting state, step S105 does not need to be executed.

[0107] In step S106, the communication unit 13 determines whether it has received the beacon transmitted by the air conditioner 20. If the communication unit 13 determines that it has received the beacon (Yes in step S106), it proceeds to step S107; otherwise (No in step S106), it executes step S106 again. That is, the communication unit 13 waits in step S106 until it receives the beacon.

[0108] In step S107, the processing unit 14 determines whether the SSID included in the beacon received by the communication unit 13 in step S106 is "AC-A" corresponding to the communication module of version 1 or "AC-B" corresponding to the communication module of version 2. If the above SSID is "AC-A" ( "AC-A" in step S107), it proceeds to step S108; if the above SSID is "AC-B" ( "AC-B" in step S107), it proceeds to step S117.

[0109] Note that when the above SSID is "AC-A", it corresponds to the case where the first information matches the second information; when the above SSID is "AC-B", it corresponds to the case where the first information does not match the second information.

[0110] In step S108, the processing unit 14 executes the setting process for the communication module of version 1. After finishing step S108, the series of processes shown in FIG. 9 are terminated.

[0111] In step S111, the presentation unit 12 displays a guidance image for guiding the reading of the QR code for setting.

[0112] In step S112, the presentation unit 12 determines whether the reading of the QR code for setting based on the guidance image displayed in step S111 is successful. If it determines that the reading is successful, it proceeds to step S121; otherwise, it proceeds to step S113.

[0113] In step S113, the presentation unit 12 displays a guidance image for guiding an operation of causing the air conditioner 20 having the communication module of version 2 to transmit a beacon.

[0114] In step S114, the communication unit 13 transitions to the beacon reception waiting state. If the communication unit 13 is already in the beacon reception waiting state, step S114 does not need to be executed.

[0115] In step S115, the communication unit 13 determines whether it has received a beacon transmitted by the air conditioner 20. If the communication unit 13 determines that it has received the beacon (Yes in step S115), it proceeds to step S116; otherwise (No in step S115), it executes step S115 again. That is, the communication unit 13 waits in step S115 until it receives the beacon.

[0116] In step S116, the processing unit 14 determines whether the SSID included in the beacon received by the communication unit 13 in step S115 corresponds to "AC-A" corresponding to the communication module of version 1 or "AC-B" corresponding to the communication module of version 2. If the SSID is "AC-A" (in step S116, "AC-A"), it proceeds to step S108; if the SSID is "AC-B" (in step S116, "AC-B"), it proceeds to step S117.

[0117] Note that when the SSID is "AC-A", it corresponds to the case where the first information does not match the second information; when the SSID is "AC-B", it corresponds to the case where the first information matches the second information.

[0118] In step S117, the processing unit 14 executes setting processing related to the communication module of version 2. After step S117 is completed, the series of processing shown in FIG. 9 is terminated.

[0119] In step S121, the processing unit 14 executes setting processing using a QR code. After finishing step S121, the series of processing shown in FIG. 9 is ended.

[0120] Through the series of processing shown in FIG. 9, the terminal 10 can appropriately perform device setting processing using wireless communication.

[0121] (Modification Example of the Embodiment) In the present embodiment, an example of applying the information processing apparatus and the like that appropriately perform device setting processing using wireless communication to a device different from the air conditioner will be described.

[0122] In the present embodiment, a case where the setting processing of the microwave oven 60, which is an example of a device, is performed using the terminal 10 will be described.

[0123] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the setting processing of the microwave oven 60 in this modification example.

[0124] The microwave oven 60 shown in FIG. 10 corresponds to a device. The microwave oven 60 corresponds to a device in the same way as the air conditioner 20 in the above embodiment, but is a device that does not have a device main body and a remote control.

[0125] The microwave oven 60 has the function of a software AP. The microwave oven 60 performs wireless communication with the terminal 10 using the software AP and receives setting processing by the terminal 10.

[0126] The microwave oven 60 has one communication module selected from among a plurality of communication modules, in the same way as the air conditioner 20 in the above embodiment.

[0127] As specific information for identifying the communication module included in the microwave oven 60, the color characteristics of the operation buttons F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5 (also referred to as operation buttons F1, etc.) among the operation buttons 6 that the microwave oven 60 has are used. The shape or arrangement of the operation buttons F1, etc. included in the microwave oven 60 and the version of the communication module included in the microwave oven 60 are pre-associated.

[0128] The wireless identification information transmitted by the microwave oven 60 and the version of the communication module included in the microwave oven 60 are pre-associated.

[0129] The terminal 10 has a function of performing setting processing of the microwave oven 60 while performing wireless communication with the microwave oven 60.

[0130] Specifically, the terminal 10 displays a guidance image (corresponding to FIGS. 6, 7, and 8 of the above embodiment) for guiding the operation of the microwave oven 60 by the user U on the presentation unit 12 and accepts the input of the user U (steps S101 to S104, S111 to 113). At this time, as operation information, the terminal 10 indicates the operation button among the operation buttons D1, etc. that the user U should operate and the mode of operation to be performed on the operation button.

[0131] In addition, the terminal 10 receives the beacon (steps S105 to S108, S114 to S117), and executes setting processing according to the version of the communication module included in the microwave oven 60.

[0132] In this way, the terminal 10 can appropriately perform device setting processing using wireless communication for a device that does not have a device body and a remote control.

[0133] As described above, when the first information based on the user's judgment does not match the second information based on the information transmitted by the device, the information processing apparatus according to the above embodiment or the above modification example executes the setting process using the second information based on the information transmitted by the device. Therefore, the setting process of the device can be appropriately performed. If the mismatch between the first information and the second information is due to a misjudgment by the user (such as misidentifying or misunderstanding the characteristics of the device), the influence of the misjudgment can be eliminated, and the setting process of the device can be appropriately performed. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can appropriately perform the setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0134] In addition, the information processing apparatus prompts the user to perform an operation by the first guidance information presented, which contributes to causing the device to transmit the wireless identification information. Therefore, even when starting from a state where the device has not transmitted the wireless identification information, the information processing apparatus can appropriately perform the setting process of the device by causing the device to transmit the wireless identification information. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily appropriately perform the setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0135] In addition, since the information processing apparatus presents the first guidance information including at least a part of the appearance of the device, the user can more easily grasp the content of the operation to be performed on the device. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily appropriately perform the setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0136] In addition, since the information processing apparatus transitions to the reception waiting state of the wireless identification information after presenting the first guidance information, even when starting from a state that is not the reception waiting state, the wireless identification information can be received. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily appropriately perform the setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0137] In addition, the information processing apparatus prompts the user to read the code by presenting second guidance information. This can contribute to reducing the burden of operations by the user that may be required in the setting process through the setting process using the code. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily perform the appropriate setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0138] In addition, the information processing apparatus performs the setting process of the device using the code based on the reading of the code made by presenting the second guidance information. Using the code can contribute to reducing the burden of operations by the user that may be required in the setting process. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily perform the appropriate setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0139] In addition, the information processing apparatus can receive from the user an input of the characteristics of the color of the operation button of the device and perform different setting processes according to the security strength of the communication module provided in the device. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily perform the appropriate setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0140] In addition, when the device is configured to include a device main body and a remote controller, the information processing apparatus can receive from the user an input of the characteristics of the appearance of the remote controller and perform different setting processes according to the security strength of the communication module provided in the device. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily perform the appropriate setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0141] In addition, in the setting process of the second communication module having a higher security strength than the first communication module, the information processing apparatus performs the setting process of the device using the code. Using the code can contribute to reducing the burden of operations by the user that may be required in the setting process. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily perform the appropriate setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0142] In addition, by using the SSID of Wi-Fi (registered trademark) as the wireless identification information, the information processing apparatus can more easily receive the wireless identification information and perform the setting process of the communication module. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can more easily and appropriately perform the setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0143] In addition, when the first information based on the user's judgment matches the second information based on the information transmitted by the device, the information processing apparatus adopts and executes the setting process based on the user's judgment, so that the setting process of the device can be appropriately performed. Therefore, the information processing apparatus can appropriately perform the setting process of the device using wireless communication.

[0144] In the above embodiment or the above modification, each component may be configured by dedicated hardware or may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or a processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory. Here, the software for realizing the information processing apparatus and the like in the above embodiment or the above modification is the following program.

[0145] That is, this program causes a computer to receive, from a user, feature information indicating a feature of the appearance of a device having one communication module selected from a plurality of communication modules, the feature being associated with the one communication module, receive wireless identification information associated with the one communication module from the device, determine whether first information indicating the one communication module corresponding to the feature indicated by the received feature information matches second information indicating the one communication module associated with the received wireless identification information, and when it is determined that they do not match, execute an information processing method for performing a setting process related to the one communication module indicated by the second information.

[0146] The information processing apparatus and the like according to one or more aspects have been described based on the embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. As long as it does not depart from the gist of the present invention, various modifications conceived by those skilled in the art applied to these embodiments, or forms constructed by combining components in different embodiments may also be included within the scope of one or more aspects.

Industrial Applicability

[0147] The present invention can be used in an information processing apparatus for setting equipment.

Explanation of Signs

[0148] 5, A2, B2 Remote Controller 6, A3, B3, C, D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, E1, E2, E3, E4, E5, E6 Operation Buttons 10, T Terminal 11 Reception Unit 12 Presentation Unit 13 Communication Unit 14 Processing Unit 20 Air Conditioner 30, 31, 40, 42, 50, 52 Images 32 Message 33, 34, 43, 53 Buttons 41, 51 Operation Information 60 Microwave Oven A, B Equipment A1, B1 Equipment Body U User

Claims

1. A feature of the appearance of a device having one communication module selected from a plurality of communication modules, comprising: a reception unit that receives feature information indicating a feature associated with the one communication module from a user; a communication unit that receives wireless identification information associated with the one communication module from the device; a processing unit that determines whether first information indicating the one communication module associated with the feature indicated by the feature information received by the reception unit matches second information indicating the one communication module associated with the wireless identification information received by the communication unit, and when it is determined that they do not match, executes setting processing related to the one communication module indicated by the second information. An information processing apparatus.

2. The information processing apparatus further comprises: a first presentation unit that, when the reception unit receives the feature information, presents first guidance information that is an operation for causing the device to transmit the wireless identification information and that guides the user through an operation on the device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The first presentation unit presents, as the first guidance information, a guidance image including at least a part of the appearance of the device having the one communication module indicated by the first information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. After the first presentation unit presents the first guidance information, the communication unit transitions to a reception waiting state in which it waits to receive the wireless identification information from the device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The information processing apparatus further comprises: a second presentation unit that, when the device supports setting processing using a code, presents guidance information for guiding the user to read the code by the information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The processing unit further: reads the code and executes setting processing using the read code. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5.

7. The plurality of communication modules include a first communication module and a second communication module that performs communication with a higher security intensity than the first communication module. The feature of the appearance of the device includes the feature of the color of the operation button provided in the device. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The device includes a device main body and a remote control that wirelessly transmits a signal to the device main body. The features of the appearance of the device include the features of the appearance of the remote control of the device The information processing apparatus according to claim 7

9. When the device has the second communication module, the device supports setting processing using a code The information processing apparatus according to claim 7 or 8

10. The wireless identification information includes the Wi-Fi SSID The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9

11. When the processing unit determines that the first information matches the second information, the processing unit executes setting processing related to the one communication module indicated by the first information The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10

12. A feature of the appearance of a device having one communication module selected from a plurality of communication modules, receiving from a user feature information indicating a feature associated with the one communication module, receiving from the device wireless identification information associated with the one communication module, determining whether first information indicating the one communication module associated with the feature indicated by the received feature information matches second information indicating the one communication module associated with the received wireless identification information, and when it is determined that they do not match, executing setting processing related to the one communication module indicated by the second information Information processing method

13. A program for causing a computer to execute the information processing method according to claim 12

Images