Relay device, method for preventing 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 preventing unauthorized use thereof, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, with the increase in devices such as smartphones and tablets capable of wireless LAN (Local Area Network) communication, the diversity of users of wireless LAN communication has increased. Furthermore, as users' skills improve, and various information published on the Internet has led to cases of malicious users attempting to modify the hardware or software of repeater devices such as wireless LAN routers and gateway devices. Modifications to repeater devices may violate the Radio Law or reduce security. Therefore, to prevent hardware modifications from violating the Radio Law or reducing security, measures have been taken to prevent repeater devices from violating the Radio Law or reducing security, such as by making the casing structure complex to make the device difficult to disassemble or by requiring special tools for assembly and disassembly.

[0003] However, there is a problem in that some users may physically destroy the casing or disassemble the device using special tools and attempt to modify the hardware. Furthermore, disassembling or physically modifying the repeater casing may result in an assembly or casing state different from that at the time of device manufacture. This may cause the wireless directivity and reception characteristics to deviate from the designed values, potentially causing radio interference or radio disturbance to surrounding devices. In particular, as repeater devices become faster and more sophisticated in their processing speed and communication speed, their power consumption and heat generation tend to increase. Therefore, thermal designs that calculate the layout of the casing and electronic components are performed to address heat generation and safety concerns for repeater devices. However, if the relative positions of the casing and electronic components are changed due to hardware modifications, the designed heat dissipation effect may not be achieved.

[0004] Therefore, as a method for solving problems caused by hardware modifications, etc., there is a method of limiting transmission performance and reception performance when external light is detected when the casing is opened (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 8-79102 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The following analysis is provided by the present inventors.

[0007] However, with the method described in Patent Document 1, even if the casing is opened and hardware modifications are made, the device will be determined to be in a normal state as long as it is unable to detect external light.

[0008] A main object of the present invention is to provide a relay device, a method for preventing unauthorized use thereof, and a program that can contribute to reliably detecting tampering caused by opening the casing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A relay device according to a first aspect comprises a plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space, an antenna configured to convert electric current into radio waves and vice versa, a wireless communication unit mounted in the internal space and configured to perform communication processing with a terminal connected wirelessly via the antenna, a plurality of cover units attached to each of the plurality of casings in the internal space and configured to create a darkroom space that does not allow light to enter when the plurality of casings are combined normally, 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, wherein the control unit is configured to cause the display unit to display an abnormal condition when the light detection unit detects light.

[0010] A method for preventing unauthorized use of a relay device according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space, an antenna configured to convert electric current and radio waves into each other, A method for preventing fraudulent use of a relay device that includes: a wireless communication unit that is mounted in the internal space and configured to perform communication processing with a terminal connected wirelessly 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 that does not allow light to 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 that is configured to display information; and 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, wherein when the control unit detects light with the light detection unit, the control unit causes the display unit to display an abnormal state.

[0011] A program according to a third aspect is a program to be executed by a control unit of a relay device comprising: a plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space; an antenna configured to convert electric current into radio waves and vice versa; a wireless communication unit mounted in the internal space and configured to perform communication processing with a terminal connected wirelessly via the antenna; a plurality of cover units attached to each of the plurality of casings in the internal space and configured to create a darkroom space that does not allow light to 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. When light is detected by the light detection unit, the program causes the control unit to execute a process of displaying on the display unit that an abnormal condition exists.

[0012] The program can be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can be a non-transient medium such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a magnetic recording medium, or an optical recording medium. The present disclosure can also be embodied as a computer program product. The program is input to a computer device from an input device or an external device via a communication interface, stored in a storage device, and drives a processor according to predetermined steps or processes. The processing results, including intermediate states as needed, can be displayed at each stage on a display device, or the computer device can communicate with the outside world via the communication interface. For example, a computer device for this purpose typically includes a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and, if necessary, a display device, all of which can be connected to each other via a bus. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] The first to third aspects can contribute to reliable detection of tampering involving opening the casing. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating an example of the external configuration of a relay device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the relay device according to the first embodiment when it is properly installed. FIG. [Figure 3] 2 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an example of a circuit configuration of a relay device according to the first embodiment and a configuration of its periphery. FIG. [Figure 4] 3 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a detailed circuit configuration between a photodetector, a power supply circuit, and a wireless communication unit in the relay device according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating an example of the external configuration of a relay device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration of a relay device according to a second embodiment and its peripheral configuration. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a flow chart diagrammatically illustrating the operation when determining the installation state of the relay device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of a relay device according to a third embodiment when it is properly installed. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an example of a circuit configuration of a relay device according to a third embodiment and its peripheral configuration. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a circuit configuration of a relay device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of hardware resources. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that, where reference numerals are used in this application, they are intended solely to facilitate understanding and are not intended to limit the present invention to the illustrated embodiments. Furthermore, the following embodiments are merely illustrative and do not limit the present invention. Furthermore, connecting lines between blocks in the drawings, etc., referred to in the following description, include both bidirectional and unidirectional lines. Unidirectional arrows are used to schematically indicate the flow of main signals (data) and do not exclude bidirectionality. Furthermore, although not explicitly shown, input and output ports exist at the input and output ends of each connecting line in the circuit diagrams, block diagrams, internal configuration diagrams, connection diagrams, etc., shown in this disclosure. The same applies to input and output interfaces. A program is executed via a computer device, which includes, for example, a processor, a storage device, an input device, a communication interface, and, if necessary, a display device. The computer device is configured to communicate with internal or external devices (including computers) via the communication interface, whether wired or wireless.

[0016] [Embodiment 1] A relay device according to embodiment 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a typical example of the external configuration of the relay device according to embodiment 1. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a typical example of the configuration of the relay device according to embodiment 1 in a correctly assembled state.

[0017] The relay device 10 is a device that relays between a terminal such as a smartphone 50 or 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 wired-to-wired relay, wireless-to-wired relay, wireless-to-wireless relay, or a combination thereof. The relay device 10 can be used in a user's home, office, or the like. 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 prevents unauthorized use by a user, such as disassembly of the device or modification of the hardware or software of the module board 13 or casings 11 and 12. The relay device 10 includes casings 11 and 12, a module board 13, a photodetector 14, covers 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 a module board 13, a photodetector 14, an antenna 17, and a cable 18) and cover units 15 and 16 inside (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The casings 11 and 12 are configured to be assembled with their insides facing each other. While FIGS. 1 and 2 show a configuration in which two casings 11 and 12 are assembled in one relay device 10, three or more casings may be assembled. The casings 11 and 12 are assembled to cover an internal space, and circuit components are mounted in the internal space. The casing 11 may be integrated with the cover unit 15, or may have the cover unit 15 attached (by assembly, bonding, welding, engagement, etc.). The casing 12 may be integrated with the cover unit 16, or may have the cover unit 16 attached.

[0019] The module board 13 is a board on which electronic components, connectors, and the like are mounted for relaying between a terminal such as a smartphone 50 or a personal computer 60 and the Internet 80 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The module board 13 is mounted inside the combined casings 11 and 12. The module board 13 is mounted inside the casings 11 and 12, for example, by being attached (by screws, engagement, etc.) to one of the casings 11 and 12 or by being sandwiched between the casings 11 and 12. The module board 13 is positioned so as not to interfere with the cover parts 15 and 16 when the casings 11 and 12 are combined. The module board 13 may also be mounted with a photodetector 14. The module board 13 is electrically connected to an antenna 17 via a cable 18. A detailed configuration of the module board 13 will be described later.

[0020] The light detection unit 14 is a functional unit that detects light (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The light detection unit 14 is disposed in a darkroom space covered by at least the cover units 15 and 16, and may also be covered by the casings 11 and 12 or the module substrate 13. The light detection unit 14 is electrically connected to the module substrate 13. In FIGS. 1 and 2, the light detection unit 14 is mounted on the module substrate 13, but it may also be electrically connected to the module substrate 13 via a cable, connector, or the like and attached to the casings 11 and 12 or the cover units 15 and 16. The light detection unit 14 is positioned so that the brightness around the light detection unit 14 is sufficiently dark (no light hits it) 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 covers 15 and 16 are structural components that cover the light detection unit 14 when the casings 11 and 12 are combined, blocking light from reaching the light detection unit 14 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The cover 15 may be integrated with the casing 11 or may be attached (assembled, glued, welded, engaged, etc.) to the casing 11. The cover 16 may be integrated with the casing 12 or may be attached to the casing 12. The covers 15 and 16 are configured to block light from reaching the light detection unit 14 on the module board 13 when the module board 13 is properly installed between the two casings 11 and 12, as shown in FIG. 2, thereby creating a darkroom space around the light detection unit 14. This allows the light detection unit 14 to detect the ambient brightness when the relay device 10 is operated without being properly installed, and the operation of the relay device 10 can be controlled (limited) based on the detected brightness.

[0022] Antenna 17 is a structure that converts electric current into radio waves and vice versa (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Antenna 17 is connected to smartphone 50 so as to be able to communicate via wireless LAN. Antenna 17 is electrically connected to module board 13 via cable 18. Although antenna 17 is mounted inside casings 11 and 12 in FIG. 2, it may be configured to be attached to the outside of casings 11 and 12.

[0023] The relay device 10 as described above is configured to utilize the casings 11, 12, module substrate 13, and cover units 15, 16 so that when the casings 11, 12 are combined, the module substrate 13 is positioned correctly within the casings 11, 12, and when the cover units 15, 16 are combined, light to the light detection unit 14 is blocked. Furthermore, the relay device 10 is configured so that when the casings 11, 12 are disassembled, when the casings 11, 12, module substrate 13, or cover units 15, 16 are not correctly combined, or when the cover units 15, 16 are missing, the structure that blocks light to the light detection unit 14 is removed.

[0024] Next, the circuit configuration of the repeater 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 repeater according to embodiment 1 and its peripheral configuration. Fig. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing a detailed circuit configuration between the photodetector, power supply circuit, and wireless communication unit in the repeater according to embodiment 1.

[0025] The circuit configuration of the relay device 10 on the module board 13 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 memory unit 26, a display unit 27, a switch unit 28, a power supply circuit unit 29, a photodetector unit 14, an antenna 17, and a cable 18 (see FIG. 3).

[0026] The WAN port 21 is a port that is communicatively connected to the line termination device 70 in order to connect to the Internet 80 (see FIG. 3). The WAN port 21 is communicatively connected to the wired communication unit 24 and is controlled by the wired communication unit 24.

[0027] The LAN port 22 is a port that is communicatively connected to a terminal such as a personal computer 60 via a wired connection (see FIG. 3). Although there are multiple LAN ports 22 in FIG. 3, there may be only one LAN port. The LAN port 22 is communicatively connected to a 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 light detection unit 14 (see FIG. 3). The control unit 23 executes a predetermined program stored in the storage unit 26 to perform predetermined control and information processing.

[0029] The wired communication unit 24 is a functional unit that performs communication processing for terminals such as a line termination device 70 and a personal computer 60 that are connected to the WAN port 21 and the LAN port 22 by wire (wired WAN, wired LAN) (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 for a terminal such as a smartphone 50 connected via a wireless LAN via the antenna 17 (see FIGS. 3 and 4). The wireless communication unit 25 is electrically connected to the antenna 17 via a cable 18. The wireless communication unit 25 is controlled by the control unit 23. The power of the wireless communication unit 25 is controlled by a power supply circuit unit 29.

[0031] The storage unit 26 is a functional unit that stores various types 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). For example, a display or a light-emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) can be used as the display unit 27. The display unit 27 is controlled by the control unit 23. The display unit 27 may display the operating status of the relay device 10 (may be by emitting light in a predetermined color, blinking, etc.). The display unit 27 may display that the relay device 10 is abnormal (faulty) due to disassembly or modification when the light detection unit 14 detects light.

[0033] The switch unit 28 is a functional unit that switches the operation mode of the relay device 10 and initializes the relay device 10 in response to a user operation (see FIG. 3). For example, a push switch, a touch sensor, or the like can be used as the switch unit 28. The switch unit 28 is controlled by the control unit 23.

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

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

[0036] The light detection unit 14 may be, for example, a photoresistor 31 (e.g., a CdS (cadmium sulfide) cell) and a resistor 32 (e.g., 10 kΩ) connected in series between a power supply 33 (e.g., 3.3 V) and a ground 34. When the light incident on the photoresistor 31 is strong and bright, the resistance value of the photoresistor 31 is small, about 10 kΩ, and when the light incident on the photoresistor 31 is weak (dark), the resistance value of the photoresistor 31 is large, about 1000 kΩ. The light detection unit 14 branches off from the wiring between the photoresistor 31 and the resistor 32 and is connected to the power supply circuit unit 29.

[0037] In the circuit configuration of the photodetector 14, power supply circuit 29, and wireless communication unit 25 shown in Fig. 4, when the module board 13 and casings 11 and 12 are properly assembled as shown in Fig. 2, the photodetector 14 will be dark, the resistance of the photoresistor 31 of the photodetector 14 will be as high as 1000 kΩ, and the input voltage of the terminal connected to the power supply control unit 41 will be low at approximately 1.65 V. At this time, the power supply control unit 41 will determine from the input voltage value that the assembly is properly assembled, enable the power output of the wireless power output unit 42, and supply power to the wireless communication unit 25, thereby enabling wireless communication operation of the relay device 10.

[0038] On the other hand, when casings 11 and 12 are disassembled and light is irradiated onto photodetector 14, creating a bright state, the resistance of photoresistor 31 decreases to 10 kΩ, causing the input voltage at the terminals of power supply control unit 41 to reach a high voltage of approximately 3.2 V. At this time, power supply control unit 41 determines from the input voltage value that the assembly is abnormal and disables the power output of wireless power output unit 42, thereby stopping the power supply to wireless communication unit 25 and halting wireless communication operation.

[0039] In this way, the signal from the optical detection unit 14 is used to determine whether the wireless LAN communication device has been intentionally disassembled by the user, and if there is a possibility that hardware or software modifications have been made, the signal from the optical detection unit 14 is used to stop the power supply to the wireless communication unit 25, thereby stopping the wireless communication operation of the relay device.

[0040] According to embodiment 1, in the relay device 10, the light detection unit 14, which is arranged so as to be covered by the cover units 15 and 16, can determine whether the module board 13 is properly incorporated into the casings 11 and 12, thereby contributing to reliably detecting tampering caused by opening the casings 11 and 12 through unauthorized disassembly.

[0041] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, in the relay device 10, the light detection unit 14 arranged to be covered by the cover units 15 and 16 can determine whether the casings 11 and 12 have been physically modified, thereby preventing the casings 11 and 12 from being modified and used fraudulently.

[0042] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, by preventing the casings 11 and 12 of the relay device 10 from being disassembled and used fraudulently, it is possible to prevent users from attempting to disassemble the relay device 10 and modify the hardware or software.

[0043] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, it is possible to prevent users from performing actions such as disassembling or modifying the casings 11 and 12 of the relay device 10, thereby preventing users from modifying the hardware or software and maintaining the characteristics at the time of design.

[0044] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, in the relay device 10, the light detection unit 14, which is arranged so as to be covered by the cover units 15 and 16, can determine whether mechanical parts or sub-boards other than the module board 13 are properly assembled in the relay device 10, even when there are such parts. Therefore, when assembly precision is required, precision can be ensured.

[0045] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the circuit configuration of the light detection unit 14, the power supply circuit unit 29, and the wireless communication unit 25 can determine whether the relay device 10 is properly incorporated, so that it can be used without software control.

[0046] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, by confirming that the relay device 10 has been disassembled by the user, that the module board 13 of the relay device 10 is not properly installed in the casings 11 and 12, or that the casings 11 and 12 are in an abnormal state where they have been physically processed or destroyed, it is possible to prevent unauthorized modifications by the user and to prevent use of the device in an unauthorized modified state.

[0047] Furthermore, according to embodiment 1, by adding cover parts 15, 16 and light detection part 14 to relay device 10, if a user disassembles casing 11, 12 of relay device 10 and attempts to tamper with it, relay device 10 can automatically determine this and impose restrictions on its operation, thereby making it possible to prevent unauthorized use of wireless LAN communication devices.

[0048] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, by using the light detection unit 14, it is possible to make it difficult for a malicious user to determine which component is determining whether or not the operation is restricted in fraudulent use.

[0049] [Embodiment 2] A relay device according to embodiment 2 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of the relay device according to embodiment 2. Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the relay device according to embodiment 2 and its peripheral configuration.

[0050] Embodiment 2 is a modification of Embodiment 1. In this embodiment, the photodetector 14 is disposed in a location where precision is required when assembling sub-boards and mechanical components, in addition to the module substrate 13, into the casings 11 and 12 at the production factory of the relay device 10 (see FIG. 5). For example, in the relay device 10, the position at which the antenna 17 is installed into the casings 11 and 12 affects the wireless characteristics, so precision is required for installation in the correct location in the casings 11 and 12. When the module substrate 13 and the antenna 17 are installed in the correct locations relative to the casings 11 and 12, the photodetector 14 is completely covered by the module substrate 13, the antenna 17, and the covers 15 and 16, so that light does not strike the photodetector 14. If the antenna 17 is installed in the incorrect location in the casings 11 and 12, light is allowed to strike the photodetector 14. The photodetector 14 is electrically connected to the module substrate 13 via a cable 18.

[0051] In the second embodiment, the control unit 23 receives a signal from the light detection unit 14 that detected light, rather than the power supply circuit unit 29, and the control unit 23 controls (limits, disables, or stops) the function of the wireless communication unit 25 (see FIG. 6 ). Furthermore, upon receiving a light detection signal from the light detection unit 14 that detected light, the control unit 23 stores history information (such as the date and time of reception, the time of reception, and the number of times reception) related to the light detection signal in the storage unit 26. By utilizing the history information, the control unit 23 disables the function of the wireless communication unit 25 not only while the light detection unit 14 detects light (detecting an abnormality in the relay device 10) but also after the abnormality in the relay device 10 is resolved. This allows only the manufacturer to disable the function of the wireless communication unit 25. Furthermore, by processing brightness information detected by the light detection unit 14 in the control unit 23, if the light detection unit 14 detects light and the relay device 10 is being illegally disassembled or tampered with by a user, the display unit 27 of the relay device 10 displays a message indicating an abnormality in the relay device 10 to the user.

[0052] The other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0053] Next, the operation of determining the installation state of the relay device according to embodiment 2 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 7 is a flow chart diagram that schematically shows the operation of determining the installation state of the relay device according to embodiment 2. Please refer to Figs. 5 and 6 for the configuration of the relay device.

[0054] First, an operator installs the relay device 10 (step A1).

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

[0056] Next, it is determined whether or not the light detection unit 14 detects light (whether or not the installation state of the relay device 10 is abnormal) (step A4).

[0057] If the light detection unit 14 detects light (if the installation state is abnormal) (YES in step A4), the control unit 23 receives a light detection signal from the light detection unit 14, determines that the relay device 10 has been disassembled, or that the module board 13 or casings 11 and 12 has been modified in hardware or software, or the like, and displays the abnormal state on the display unit 27 (step A5). This allows the operator to be prompted to reinstall the device.

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

[0059] Next, the worker ends the operation of the relay device 10 (powers it off) (step A7), and then returns to step A1, where the worker re-installs the relay device 10.

[0060] If the light detection unit 14 does not detect light (the installation state is normal) (NO in step A4), the control unit 23 determines that the repeater 10 is in a normal state without receiving a light detection signal from the light detection unit 14, and causes the repeater 10 to continue normal operation (step A8). This improves the accuracy of the installation position of the antenna 17 of the repeater 10.

[0061] Finally, the operator ends the operation of the relay device 10 (powers it off) (step A9), and then ends the process.

[0062] According to the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to contribute to reliably detecting tampering caused by opening the casings 11 and 12, and it is also possible to determine whether the installation state of the relay device 10 is normal or not, and display on the display unit 27 that the installation state is abnormal. Therefore, in cases where precision is required in the installation position of parts in the relay device 10, if the installation state is abnormal, the worker is prompted to re-install it, which improves precision in the manufacturing process (especially the installation precision of the antenna 17), and ensures wireless characteristics as designed.

[0063] Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, whether the relay device 10 is properly installed or not is determined, so that the user can be encouraged to use the device in a normal state and the user can be prevented from misusing the device (such as disassembling the device or physically modifying it).

[0064] [Embodiment 3] A relay device according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic example of the configuration of a relay device according to the third embodiment when properly installed. Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing a schematic example of the circuit configuration of the relay device according to the third embodiment and its peripheral configuration.

[0065] The third embodiment is a modification of the second embodiment, and adds a light-emitting unit 20 (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED)) (see FIGS. 8 and 9). Because the relay device 10 is not always used in brightly lit locations, the light-emitting unit 20 is provided so that it can detect light when the relay device 10 is not properly installed, even in dark environments where the light-detecting unit 14 would not detect an abnormality. The light-emitting unit 20 is lit (either constantly lit or flashing) when the relay device 10 is operating (powered on). The light-detecting unit 14 is covered with covers 15 and 16 so as not to detect light from the light-emitting unit 20. When the module board 13 and the antenna 17 are properly installed in the casings 11 and 12, the light-detecting unit 14 is configured not to detect light from the light-emitting unit 20. When the casings 11 and 12 are disassembled or when the module board 13 and the antenna 17 are not properly installed in the casings 11 and 12, the light-detecting unit 14 detects light from the light-emitting unit 20. Other configurations and operations are similar to those of the second embodiment. The configuration of the light-emitting unit 20 of the third embodiment may be applied to the first embodiment.

[0066] According to the third embodiment, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to reliably detect tampering caused by opening the casings 11 and 12, and also, since the light-emitting unit 20 can determine whether the installation state of the relay device 10 is abnormal even in a dark environment, it is possible to further increase the deterrent effect against disassembly and unauthorized tampering of the relay device 10.

[0067] [Embodiment 4] A relay device according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 10 is a block diagram showing a schematic circuit configuration of the relay device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0068] The relay device 10 is a device that relays communication with a 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 units 15 and 16, a photodetector 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 convert current to radio waves and vice versa. The wireless communication unit 25 is mounted in the internal space and configured to perform communication processing with a terminal 50 wirelessly connected via the antenna 17. The cover units 15 and 16 are attached to the multiple casings 11 and 12 in the internal space, respectively, and configured to create a darkroom space that blocks light when the multiple casings 11 and 12 are properly combined. The light detection unit 14 is mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light. The display unit 27 is configured to display information. The control unit 23 is mounted in the internal space and 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 display an abnormal state on the display unit 27 when the light detection unit 14 detects light.

[0070] According to embodiment 4, in the relay device 10, the light detection unit 14, which is arranged so as to be covered by the cover units 15 and 16, can determine whether the casings 11 and 12 are properly assembled, thereby contributing to the reliable detection of tampering caused by opening the casings 11 and 12 through unauthorized disassembly.

[0071] The relay devices according to the first to fourth embodiments can be configured using so-called hardware resources (information processing devices, computers), and may be configured as shown in Fig. 11. For example, the hardware resources 100 include a processor 101, a memory 102, a network interface 103, and the like, which are interconnected by an internal bus 104.

[0072] 11 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the hardware resource 100. The hardware resource 100 may include hardware (e.g., an input / output interface) that is not shown. Furthermore, 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, and for example, multiple processors 101 may be included in the hardware resource 100. The processor 101 may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like.

[0073] The memory 102 may be, for example, a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a hard disk drive (HDD), or a solid state drive (SSD).

[0074] The network interface 103 may be, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) card, a network adapter, a network interface card, or the like.

[0075] The functions of the hardware resource 100 are realized by the processing modules described above. The processing modules are realized, for example, by the processor 101 executing a program stored in the memory 102. The programs can be updated by downloading them over a network or by using a storage medium that stores the programs. Furthermore, the processing modules may be realized by semiconductor chips. In other words, it is sufficient that the functions performed by the processing modules be realized by software being executed on some kind of hardware.

[0076] Some or all of the above embodiments may be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0077] [Appendix 1] A plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space; an antenna configured to convert electric current into radio waves and vice versa; 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 parts attached to the plurality of casings in the internal space, respectively, and configured to create a darkroom space that is blocked by light when the plurality of casings are properly combined; a light detection unit mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light; a display 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; Equipped with The control unit is configured to cause the display unit to display an abnormal state when the light detection unit detects light. Relay device. [Appendix 2] a power supply circuit unit mounted in the internal space and configured to limit power output to the wireless communication unit when the light detection unit detects light; 10. The relay device of claim 1. [Appendix 3] The photodetector 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 is electrically connected to a contact point between the photoresistor and the resistor; 10. The relay device of claim 2. [Appendix 4] The power supply circuit unit includes: a power supply control unit configured to limit power when light is detected by the light detection unit; a wireless power output unit configured to limit the power output to the wireless communication unit in accordance with the power limit of the power control unit; 4. The relay device of claim 3, comprising: [Appendix 5] a storage unit mounted in the internal space and configured to store information; the control unit is configured to, when receiving a light detection signal generated when the light detection unit detects light, store history information related to the light detection signal in the storage unit. 10. The relay device of claim 1. [Appendix 6] the control unit is configured to limit the operation of the wireless communication unit when receiving a light detection signal indicating that light has been detected by the light detection unit. 10. The relay device of claim 1. [Appendix 7] the control unit is configured to, after restricting the operation of the wireless communication unit, keep the operation of the wireless communication unit restricted even if the light detection signal from the light detection unit disappears. 7. The relay device of claim 6. [Appendix 8] the antenna is mounted in the interior 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 disposed in the darkroom space covered by at least the cover unit and the antenna so as not to be exposed to light when the plurality of casings are properly combined; 10. The relay device of claim 1. [Appendix 9] a light emitting unit mounted in the internal space and configured to light up when the relay device is powered on; 9. A relay device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. [Appendix 10] A plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space; an antenna configured to convert electric current into radio waves and vice versa; 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 parts attached to the plurality of casings in the internal space, respectively, and configured to create a darkroom space that is blocked by light when the plurality of casings are properly combined; a light detection unit mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light; a display 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; A method for preventing unauthorized use of a relay device comprising: When the light detection unit detects light, the control unit causes the display unit to display an abnormal state. A method for preventing unauthorized use of a relay device. [Appendix 11] A plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space; an antenna configured to convert electric current into radio waves and vice versa; 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 parts attached to the plurality of casings in the internal space, respectively, and configured to create a darkroom space that is blocked by light when the plurality of casings are properly combined; a light detection unit mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light; a display 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; A program to be executed by the control unit of a relay device comprising: a program that causes the control unit to execute a process of displaying on the display unit that an abnormal state exists when the light detection unit detects light;

[0078] The disclosures of the above-mentioned patent documents are incorporated herein by reference and may be used as the basis or part of the present invention, as necessary. Modifications and adjustments of the embodiments and examples are possible within the scope of the entire disclosure of the present invention (including the claims and drawings), and further based on the basic technical concept thereof. Furthermore, various combinations and selections (or non-selections, as necessary) of the various disclosed elements (including each element of each claim, each element of each embodiment or example, each element of each drawing, etc.) are possible within the scope of the entire disclosure of the present invention. In other words, the present invention naturally includes various modifications and alterations that would be possible by a person skilled in the art in accordance with the entire disclosure and technical concept, including the claims and drawings. Furthermore, with regard to the numerical values ​​and numerical ranges described in this application, any intermediate values, lower values, and smaller ranges are deemed to be included, even if not explicitly stated. Furthermore, the disclosures of the above-cited documents, when used in part or in whole in combination with the disclosures herein as part of the disclosure of the present invention, in accordance with the spirit of the present invention, are also deemed to be included in (belong to) the disclosures of this application. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 10. Relay Device 11, 12 Casing 13 Module board 14 Light detection unit 15, 16 Cover 17 Antenna 18, 19 Cable 20 Light-emitting part 21 WAN port 22 LAN ports 23 Control Unit 24 Wired Communications Department 25 Radio Communication Department 26 Memory section 27 Display section 28 Switch section 29 Power supply circuit section 31 Photoresistor 32 Resistance 33 Power supply 34 Grounding 41 Power supply control unit 42 Wireless power output section 50 Smartphones (devices) 60 Personal Computers 70 Line Termination Equipment 80 Internet 100 Hardware Resources 101 processors 102 memory 103 Network Interface 104 Internal Bus

Claims

1. A plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space; an antenna configured to convert electric current into radio waves and vice versa; 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 parts attached to the plurality of casings in the internal space, respectively, and configured to create a darkroom space that is blocked by light when the plurality of casings are properly combined; a light detection unit mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light; a display 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; Equipped with the control unit is configured to cause the display unit to display an abnormal state when the light detection unit detects light, the antenna is mounted in the interior 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 disposed in the darkroom space covered by at least the cover unit and the antenna so as not to be exposed to light when the plurality of casings are properly combined; Relay device.

2. A plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space; an antenna configured to convert electric current into radio waves and vice versa; 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 parts attached to the plurality of casings in the internal space, respectively, and configured to create a darkroom space that is blocked by light when the plurality of casings are properly combined; a light detection unit mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light; a display 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; a light emitting unit mounted in the internal space and configured to be lit when the relay device is powered on; Equipped with The control unit is configured to cause the display unit to display an abnormal state when the light detection unit detects light. Relay device.

3. A plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space; an antenna configured to convert electric current into radio waves and vice versa; 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 parts attached to the plurality of casings in the internal space, respectively, and configured to create a darkroom space that is blocked by light when the plurality of casings are properly combined; a light detection unit mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light; a display 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; A method for preventing unauthorized use of a relay device comprising: when the light detection unit detects light, the control unit causes the display unit to display an abnormal state; the antenna is mounted in the interior 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 disposed in the darkroom space covered by at least the cover unit and the antenna so as not to be exposed to light when the plurality of casings are properly combined; A method for preventing unauthorized use of a relay device.

4. A plurality of casings combined to cover an internal space; an antenna configured to convert electric current into radio waves and vice versa; 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 parts attached to the plurality of casings in the internal space, respectively, and configured to create a darkroom space that is blocked by light when the plurality of casings are properly combined; a light detection unit mounted in the darkroom space and configured to detect light; a display 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; a light emitting unit mounted in the internal space and configured to be lit when the relay device is powered on; A method for preventing unauthorized use of a relay device comprising: When the light detection unit detects light, the control unit causes the display unit to display an abnormal state. A method for preventing unauthorized use of a relay device.

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