Communication apparatus and method for controlling the same

Abstract

The communication device includes a control unit configured to perform control to stop operation in the connection setting mode based on the elapsed time of a second time longer than a first time without performing a connection setting, when the communication device is operating in a connection setting mode and a predetermined process is completed.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a communication device and a method for controlling the communication device. Background Technology

[0002] Communication devices, such as printers, that communicate with terminal devices, such as personal computers (PCs) and smartphones, are known. These communication devices perform a connection setup process to communicate with the terminal device using a predetermined communication method, such as Wi-Fi®. In this process, the communication device operates in a connection setup state (connection setup mode). The connection setup state is a state for performing the connection setup process.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-023440 discusses a communication device operating in a software access point (software AP) mode. The communication device receives a device information setting command and sets an operation mode based on the received command.

[0004] However, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-023440 does not consider appropriate control of the timeout time of the software AP mode. means of solving the problem

[0005] The present invention relates to performing appropriate control to stop operation in a connection setting mode.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a communication device comprises: a starting unit configured to cause the communication device to start operation in a connection setting mode so as to receive setting information from an information processing device; a setting unit configured to perform a connection setting of the communication device based on setting information when setting information is received from the information processing device while the communication device is operating in a connection setting mode; an execution unit configured to perform a predetermined process proceeding based on user operation; and a control unit configured to perform a first control that stops the operation in the connection setting mode based on the elapsed time of the communication device's operation in the connection setting mode without performing a connection setting when the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode and the predetermined process has not been completed, and a second control that stops the operation in the connection setting mode based on the elapsed time of the communication device's operation in the connection setting mode without performing a connection setting when the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode and the predetermined process has been completed, and the second control that stops the operation in the connection setting mode based on the elapsed time of the communication device's operation in the connection setting mode which is longer than the first time without performing a connection setting when the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode and the predetermined process has been completed.

[0007] Further features of the present invention will be clearly understood by describing exemplary embodiments in relation to the accompanying drawings below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0008] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of an information processing device and a communication device included in a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 2a and FIGS. 2b are drawings illustrating examples of operation display units of a communication device according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. FIGS. 3a and 3b illustrate a flowchart of a process performed by a communication device when a power button press is received according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an initial setup process performed by a communication device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a process performed by an information processing device that enables a communication device to perform a connection setting process according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0009] Hereinafter, various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be understood that, based on the ordinary knowledge of those skilled in the art, changes and modifications appropriately made to the exemplary embodiments described below without departing from the spirit of the present invention are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0010] Hereinafter, an information processing device and a communication device of a communication system according to a first exemplary embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, a smartphone will be described as an example of an information processing device according to this exemplary embodiment, but the information processing device is not limited to smartphones, and various information processing devices such as mobile terminals, laptop personal computers (laptop PCs), tablet terminals, PDAs (personal digital assistants), and digital cameras can also be applied. In addition, a printer will be described below as an example of a communication device according to this exemplary embodiment, but the communication devices are not limited to printers, and various communication devices capable of communicating wirelessly with the information processing device can also be applied. For example, printers such as inkjet printers, full-color laser beam printers, and monochrome printers can be applied. Furthermore, not only printers, but also photocopiers, fax machines, mobile terminals, smartphones, laptop PCs, tablet terminals, PDAs, digital cameras, music playback devices, televisions, and smart speakers can be applied. In addition to those described above, multifunction devices having multiple functions such as copying, faxing, and printing functions can also be applied.

[0011] With reference to the block diagram illustrated in FIG. 1, the configuration of an information processing device included in a communication system according to the present exemplary embodiment and a communication device capable of communicating with the information processing device will now be described. In addition, the following configurations according to the present exemplary embodiment are described as examples, but the functions are not limited to those illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0012] The information processing device (101) includes an input interface (102), a central processing unit (CPU) (103), a read-only memory (ROM) (104), a random access memory (RAM) (105), an external storage device (106), an output interface (107), an operation display unit (108), a communication unit (109), a short-range wireless communication unit (110), and a shooting device (111).

[0013] The input interface (102) is an interface for receiving data input and operation instructions from a user and includes a physical keyboard, buttons, and / or a touch panel. The output interface (107) and the input interface (102) can be integrated into a single component that outputs screens and receives operations from a user.

[0014] The CPU (103) is a system control unit and controls the entire information processing unit (101).

[0015] The ROM (104) stores fixed data to be executed by the CPU (103), such as control programs, data tables, and built-in operating system (built-in OS) programs. According to the present exemplary embodiment, each control program stored in the ROM (104) performs software execution control, such as scheduling, task switching, and interrupt handling, under the management of the built-in OS stored in the ROM (104).

[0016] RAM (105) includes static RAM (SRAM) that requires backup power. Since data is maintained by a primary battery (not shown) for data backup, RAM (105) stores important data, such as program control variables, without evaporating the data. RAM (105) also includes a memory area for storing configuration information regarding the information processing unit (101) and management data of the information processing unit (101). RAM (105) is also used as the main memory and working memory of the CPU (103).

[0017] The external storage device (106) stores an application (hereinafter referred to as the "print application") that provides a print execution function. The external storage device (106) also stores various programs, such as a print information generation program for generating print information interpretable by a communication device (151) and an information transmission / reception control program for transmitting and receiving information to and from a communication device (151) connected via a communication unit (109). The external storage device (106) stores various types of information for use by the programs. The external storage device (106) also stores image data acquired from other information processing devices or the Internet via the communication unit (109).

[0018] The output interface (107) is an interface for the operation display unit (108) to control the provision of notifications of the states of the data display and information processing device (101).

[0019] The operation display unit (108) includes a light-emitting diode (LED) and a liquid crystal display (LCD). The operation display unit (108) displays data and provides notifications of the states of the information processing device (101). A software keyboard can receive input from a user through the operation display unit (108) by having keys such as a numeric input key, a mode setting key, a setting key, a cancel key, and a power key on the operation display unit (108).

[0020] A communication unit (109) is a component for connecting to a device such as a communication device (151) and performing data communication. For example, the communication unit (109) may be connected to an internal access point (not shown) of the communication device (151). The communication unit (109) and the internal access point of the communication device (151) are connected to each other to enable communication between the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151). The communication unit (109) may communicate directly with the communication device (151) via wireless communication, or may communicate with the communication device (151) via an access point (131) located outside the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151).

[0021] Examples of wireless communication methods include the IEEE (Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.11 series communication standards and Bluetooth®. The IEEE 802.11 series communication standards are Wi-Fi®. An access point (131) is a device such as a wireless LAN (local area network) router. According to the present exemplary embodiment, a method in which an information processing device (101) and a communication device (151) are directly connected to each other without an external access point is referred to as a "direct connection method." Additionally, a method in which an information processing device (101) and a communication device (151) are connected to each other through an external access point (131) is referred to as an "infrastructure connection method."

[0022] The short-range wireless communication unit (110) is a component for establishing a short-range wireless connection with a device such as a communication device (151) and performing data communication. The short-range wireless communication unit (110) performs communication using a communication method different from that used by the communication unit (109). The short-range wireless communication unit (110) can connect to a short-range wireless communication unit (157) within the communication device (151).

[0023] The shooting device (111) is a device that converts images captured by an image sensor into digital data. The digital data is first stored in RAM (105). Then, the digital data is converted into a predetermined image format by a program executed by the CPU (154), and the converted digital data is stored as image data in an external storage device (106).

[0024] ROM (152) stores fixed data such as control programs, data tables, and OS programs to be executed by the CPU (154).

[0025] The communication device (151) includes a ROM (152), RAM (153), CPU (154), printing engine (155), communication unit (156), short-range wireless communication unit (157), input interface (158), output interface (159), and operation display unit (160). A connection mode (communication mode) is set for the communication device (151), so that the communication device (151) can operate in the set connection mode.

[0026] A communication unit (156) is a component that allows a communication device (151) to communicate with another device. According to the present exemplary embodiment, the communication unit (156) performs communication in accordance with IEEE 802.11 series communication standards. The communication unit (156) includes an access point for connecting to a device such as an information processing device (101) as an access point within the communication device (151). The access point can be connected to the communication unit (109) of the information processing device (101). The communication unit (156) can communicate directly with the information processing device (101) via wireless communication, or it can also communicate with the information processing device (101) via an access point (131). Additionally, the communication unit (156) may include hardware that functions as an access point, or it may operate as an access point using software that functions as an access point.

[0027] RAM (153) includes dynamic RAM (DRAM) that requires backup power. Since data is maintained by power (not shown) for data backup, RAM (153) stores important data, such as program control variables, without evaporating the data. RAM (153) is also used as the main memory and working memory of the CPU (154), and stores a receiving buffer for temporarily storing print information received from the information processing unit (101) and various types of information. Additionally, RAM (153) includes a memory area for storing information indicating whether it is the first time setting the communication device (151) after power is supplied (hereinafter, "initial setting time"). That is, the initial setting time is the time during which the communication device (151) remains in an initial setting state without completing the initial setting process described later. The initial setting process is a process that proceeds based on user operation.

[0028] The ROM (152) stores fixed data such as control programs, data tables, and OS programs to be executed by the CPU (154). According to the present exemplary embodiment, each control program stored in the ROM (152) performs software execution control, such as scheduling, task switching, and interrupt processing, under the management of the built-in OS stored in the ROM (152). The ROM (152) also includes a memory area for storing data such as configuration information regarding the communication device (151) and management data of the communication device (151) to be maintained even when power is not supplied.

[0029] The CPU (154) is a system control unit and controls the entire communication device (151).

[0030] The printing engine (155) forms an image on a recording medium such as paper using a recording agent such as ink based on information stored in RAM (153) and a printing job received from the information processing device (101), and outputs a printing result. At this time, the printing job transmitted from the information processing device (101) is received through a communication unit (156) capable of performing communication at a higher speed than a short-range wireless communication unit (157), because the printing job requires a large amount of transmitted data and high-speed communication.

[0031] The input interface (158) is an interface for receiving data input or operation instructions from a user and includes a physical keyboard, buttons, and / or a touch panel. The output interface (159) and the input interface (158) may be integrated into a single component that outputs screens and receives operations from a user. The output interface (159) is an interface for the operation display unit (160) to control the provision of notifications of the status of the data display and communication device (151).

[0032] The operation display unit (160) includes a display unit such as an LED and an LCD. The operation display unit (160) displays data and provides notifications of the status of the communication device (151). The software keyboard can receive input from the user through the operation display unit (160) by having keys such as a numeric input key, a mode setting key, a setting key, a cancel key, and a power key on the operation display unit (160).

[0033] Direct Connection Method

[0034] Direct connection is a form of establishing a direct (i.e., peer-to-peer) wireless connection between devices without using an external device such as an access point (131). The communication device (151) can operate in a mode for communication via direct connection (direct connection mode) as one of the connection modes. In Wi-Fi communication, there are multiple modes for communication via direct connection, such as a software access point (software AP) mode and a Wi-Fi Direct® (WFD) mode.

[0035] WFD mode is a mode that performs direct connection using WFD. WFD is a standard developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance. In WFD mode, a device functioning as a P2P (peer-to-peer) group owner and a device functioning as a P2P client use a device search command to detect and determine the device to be the communication partner, after which the remaining wireless connection process is performed. The determination of functions corresponds, for example, to the Group Owner (GO) negotiation in P2P. Specifically, first, one of the devices to communicate with each other issues a device search command and searches for a device to connect to in WFD mode. Once another device to be the communication partner is detected, both devices check information regarding the services and functions that the device can provide. Checking the device provision information is optional, not mandatory. This step of checking device provision information corresponds, for example, to provision discovery in P2P. Next, the devices determine whether one of the devices functions as a P2P client while the other functions as a P2P group owner by checking the device-provided information with each other. After the client and group owner are determined, the client and group owner exchange parameters to perform communication using WFD. Based on the exchanged parameters, the P2P client and P2P group owner perform the remaining wireless access process and Internet Protocol (IP) access process. In WFD mode, the communication device (151) can always operate as a group owner without performing the aforementioned GO negotiation. Specifically, the communication device (151) can operate as an autonomous GO mode in WFD mode.The state in which the communication device (151) operates in WFD mode is, for example, a state in which the communication device (151) operates as a group owner even though a WFD connection has not been established, or a state in which a WFD connection has been established and the communication device (151) operates as a group owner.

[0036] In software AP mode, one of the devices communicating with each other (e.g., information processing device (101) and communication device (151)) (e.g., information processing device (101)) is identified as a client that acts as a requester for various services. The other device implements Wi-Fi access point functions using software settings. In software AP mode, the client searches for a device to become a software AP using a device search command. When a software AP is detected, the client and the software AP perform the remaining wireless connection process (e.g., establishing a wireless connection) and then perform an IP connection process (e.g., assigning an IP address). When realizing a wireless connection between the client and the software AP, the client and the software AP may use commands and parameters defined in Wi-Fi standards as commands and parameters transmitted to and received from the client and the software AP, and descriptions thereof are omitted in this specification. Additionally, the state in which the communication device (151) operates in software AP mode is, for example, a state in which the communication device (151) operates as a software AP even though a Wi-Fi connection has not been established, or a state in which the communication device (151) operates as a software AP even though a Wi-Fi connection has been established.

[0037] According to the present exemplary embodiment, when the communication device (151) operates in direct access mode, the communication device (151) operates as a parent device in the network to which the communication device (151) belongs. The parent device is a device that forms a wireless network and provides parameters for use to connect to the wireless network to the child device. Examples of parameters for use to connect to the wireless network include parameters regarding the communication channel used by the parent device. The child device receives the parameters and connects to the wireless network formed by the parent device using the communication channel used by the parent device. In direct access mode, the communication device (151) operates as a parent device, and thus the communication device (151) can determine which communication channel will be used for communication in direct access mode. For example, when the communication device (151) operates in infrastructure access mode and direct access mode simultaneously, the communication device (151) performs control so that the communication channel used for communication in infrastructure access mode is also used for communication in direct access mode. For example, the communication device (151) may preferentially select a communication channel to be used for connecting to the access point (131) as a channel to be used for communicating in direct connection mode over other channels.

[0038] Connection information (e.g., service set identifier (SSID) and password) for connecting to the communication device (151) in direct connection mode can be changed as desired by user operation of the operation unit of the communication device (151).

[0039] Infrastructure Access Methods

[0040] Infrastructure access is a form in which devices communicating with each other (e.g., an information processing device (101) and a communication device (151)) connect to an access point (e.g., an access point (131)) that manages the network of devices and communicate with each other through the access point. The communication device (151) can also operate in a mode for communicating through infrastructure access (infrastructure access mode) as one of the access modes.

[0041] In infrastructure connection, devices search for an access point using a device search command. Once an access point is detected, the devices and the access point perform the remaining wireless connection process (e.g., establishing a wireless connection) and then perform the IP connection process (assigning an IP address). When establishing a wireless connection, the devices and the access point may use commands and parameters defined as those transmitted and received from each other in Wi-Fi standards, the descriptions of which are omitted herein.

[0042] According to the present exemplary embodiment, when the communication device (151) operates in infrastructure access mode, the access point (131) operates as a parent device and the communication device (151) operates as a child device. The communication device (151) and the information processing device (101) can communicate with each other through the access point (131). Communication through infrastructure access may use a channel in a frequency band other than 2.4 GHz (e.g., 5.0 GHz band). In order to communicate with the communication device (151) through the access point (131), the information processing device (101) needs to recognize that the communication device (151) belongs to the network formed by the access point (131) and to which the information processing device (101) belongs.

[0043] According to the present exemplary embodiment, the infrastructure connection state is a state in which the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151) are simply connected to the same access point. Specifically, in the infrastructure connection state, the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151) are connected to the same access point, but there is no need to recognize that the other device is also on the same network. According to the present exemplary embodiment, the communication device (151) can establish a direct connection and an infrastructure connection simultaneously. That is, the communication device (151) can establish a Wi-Fi connection in which the communication device (151) operates as a parent device, and at the same time, establish a Wi-Fi connection in which the communication device (151) operates as a child device. As described above, the operation in a state where two connections are established simultaneously is called "simultaneous operation." In performing simultaneous operation, the communication device (151) matches the frequency band and communication channel to be used for the infrastructure connection with the frequency band and communication channel to be used for the direct connection. However, according to the exemplary embodiment, when the communication device (151) uses the 5-GHz frequency band in the infrastructure connection, the communication device (151) does not operate in the direct connection and therefore does not perform simultaneous operation. This is due to the possibility that the communication channel to be used may be changed by Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) when the 5-GHz frequency band is used.

[0044] <Connection Setup Process>

[0045] According to the present exemplary embodiment, the information processing device (101) uses wireless communication with the communication device (151) to perform a setup (connection setup) for operating the communication device (151) using at least one of the communication methods of infrastructure connection and direct connection. The connection setup process according to the present exemplary embodiment is performed via wireless communication and is therefore also referred to as "cableless setup" (CLS). Alternatively, the connection setup process may be performed via wired communication.

[0046] The communication device (151) can operate in a connection setting mode (connection setting state). The connection setting mode is a mode for performing a connection setting process, and the communication device (151) performs the connection setting process in an operating state in the connection setting mode. Details of the connection setting mode will be described later.

[0047] The information processing device (101) wirelessly transmits infrastructure configuration information to the communication device (151) in order to operate the communication device (151) in an infrastructure connection mode. The infrastructure configuration information is configuration information for operating in an infrastructure connection mode. The infrastructure configuration information includes information regarding an access point (131). The information regarding the access point (131) is, for example, SSID, password, and frequency band information.

[0048] In contrast, the information processing device (101) wirelessly transmits direct setting information to the communication device (151) in order to operate the communication device (151) in direct connection mode. The direct setting information is setting information for operating in direct connection mode. The direct setting information includes instructions to enable the WFD function for operating the communication device (151) as a group owner, and instructions to enable the access point setting of the communication device (151). Additionally, the information processing device (101) obtains connection information necessary to establish a direct connection with the communication device (151) from the communication device (151). The connection information for establishing a direct connection with the communication device (151) includes, for example, SSID and password information regarding the communication device (151).

[0049] According to the present exemplary embodiment, a direct connection for establishing a connection between an information processing device (101) and a communication device (151) is used to transmit infrastructure configuration information and direct connection information, and to obtain information for establishing a direct connection with the communication device (151) in the connection establishment process. As a direct connection for establishing a connection according to the present exemplary embodiment, a connection establishment process using Wi-Fi is performed, but wireless communication standards other than Wi-Fi, such as Bluetooth, may be used, or wired communication standards such as wired LAN or USB (universal serial bus) may be used.

[0050] Once an infrastructure connection or direct connection using Wi-Fi is established between the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151) by the connection setup process, the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151) can communicate with each other through the established connection. Specifically, for example, the information processing device (101) can transmit a printing task to the communication device (151) to have the communication device (151) perform printing, or a scanning task to have the communication device (151) perform scanning, through the established connection.

[0051] According to the present exemplary embodiment, the connection setup process may cause the communication device (151) to operate in infrastructure connection mode and in direct connection mode, but this is not a limited form. For example, the connection setup process may cause the communication device (151) to operate only in infrastructure connection mode, that is, the connection setup process may not be able to operate the communication device (151).

[0052] <Connection Settings Mode>

[0053] As described above, the communication device (151) can operate in a connection setting mode. A trigger for initiating the operation of the communication device (151) in the connection setting mode may be, for example, the pressing of a button for the connection setting mode by a user or the activation of the communication device (151) (shift to a software-on state). The button for the connection setting mode may be a hardware button of the communication device (151) or a software button displayed on the operation display unit (160) by the communication device (151).

[0054] When the communication device (151) starts operating in the connection setting mode, the communication device (151) enables Wi-Fi communication. Specifically, the communication device (151) operates as a dedicated AP for the connection setting mode. By doing so, the communication device (151) is in a state where it can establish a direct connection with the information processing device (101) using Wi-Fi. Connection information (e.g., SSID) for connecting to the dedicated AP for the connection setting mode is stored in advance in a setup program installed in the information processing device (101), and the information processing device (101) recognizes the connection information for connecting to the dedicated software AP for the connection setting mode in advance. Therefore, at least a portion of the connection information (at least a portion of the SSID) for connecting to the dedicated software AP for the connection setting mode cannot be changed as desired by the user, unlike the connection information regarding the access point enabled in the direct connection mode. In addition, according to the exemplary embodiment, as long as there is no password for connecting to the dedicated software AP for the connection setting mode and the information processing device (101) recognizes the SSID, the information processing device (101) can connect to the communication device (151) operating in the connection setting mode without using a password. This is not a limited form. For example, a password for connecting to the dedicated software AP for the connection setting mode may be stored in advance in the setup program, and a connection can be established with the communication device (151) operating in the connection setting mode using the password.

[0055] In the connection setting mode, the communication device (151) can connect to the information processing device (101) using WFD instead of normal Wi-Fi. That is, the communication device (151) operates as a group owner and can receive setting information from the information processing device (101) via WFD communication. In the connection setting mode, the communication device (151) can also connect to the information processing device (101) using Bluetooth. Specifically, the communication device (151) can operate as a Bluetooth follower device (slave device) and can receive setting information from the information processing device (101) via communication using Bluetooth (communication via Bluetooth connection). Bluetooth can be Bluetooth Classic or Bluetooth Low Energy®. When Bluetooth Low Energy is used, when the communication device (151) starts operating in the connection setting mode, the communication device (151) starts transmitting advertising information based on the Bluetooth Low Energy standard, and the information processing device (101) that receives the advertising information changes to a state where a Bluetooth Low Energy connection with the information processing device (101) can be established. Additionally, the connection setting mode may be a state where both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can be used. Specifically, when a connection request is received from the information processing device (101) using Wi-Fi, the communication device (151) operating in the connection setting mode can receive setting information via the Wi-Fi connection. On the other hand, when a connection request is received from the information processing device (101) using Bluetooth, the communication device (151) operating in the connection setting mode can receive setting information via the Bluetooth connection.

[0056] The condition for terminating the operation in the connection setting mode according to the present exemplary embodiment is, for example, that a connection mode (direct connection mode or infrastructure connection mode) is set for the communication device (151) based on setting information received from the information processing device (101). An additional condition is that the elapsed time in the connection setting mode exceeds a predetermined threshold (timeout time). The elapsed time in the connection setting mode is the time elapsed from the start of the operation in the connection setting mode without terminating the operation in the connection setting mode. Specifically, when the operation in the connection setting mode is terminated, the counting of the elapsed time in the connection setting mode is stopped. The elapsed time in the connection setting mode is not limited to this form and may, for example, be the time elapsed from the start of the operation in the connection setting mode without establishing a connection between the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151) through the AP for the connection setting mode. That is, when a connection is established between the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151) through the AP for the connection setting mode, the counting of the elapsed time in the connection setting mode may be stopped. Additionally, the elapsed time of the connection setting mode may be the time elapsed from the start of operation in the connection setting mode without receiving the setting information transmitted from the information processing device (101) by the communication device (151). That is, when the communication device (151) receives the setting information transmitted from the information processing device (101), the counting of the elapsed time of the connection setting mode may be stopped. A timeout time is set because the connection setting mode is a mode in which a connection can be established without a password or a mode in which a connection can be established using a password stored in advance in the setup program. Specifically, while the connection setting mode has the advantage of ease of connection, the connection setting mode is less secure, and if the connection setting mode is maintained for a long time, the possibility of establishing an unintended connection by the user of the communication device (151) increases.

[0057] One of the conditions for initiating operation in the connection setting mode according to the present exemplary embodiment is, for example, that the pressing of the power button is accepted while the initial setting of the communication device (151) is not completed.

[0058] After initiating operation in the connection setting mode as a result of satisfying the conditions, the communication device (151) performs an initial setting process. However, since the initial setting process is performed by receiving user operations by the communication device (151), the time from the start to the completion of the initial setting process varies depending on the user performing the operations. The user may start operating the information processing device (101) for the connection setting process after the communication device (151) has completed the initial setting process. The communication device (151) according to the present exemplary embodiment starts operation in the connection setting mode before the initial setting process is completed. Therefore, if the user operations for the initial setting process take time and the communication device (151) completes the initial setting process late, a problem arises in that the elapsed time of the connection setting mode counted until the completion timing of the initial setting process may be a large value. That is, there is a problem in that after the completion of the initial setting process, only a small amount of time may remain before the elapsed time of the connection setting mode exceeds the timeout time.

[0059] To solve the aforementioned problems, the timeout time of the connection setting mode is appropriately controlled according to the present exemplary embodiment. Specifically, according to the present exemplary embodiment, the timeout time is controlled based on the elapsed time of the connection setting mode at the completion timing of the initial setting process. More specifically, according to the present exemplary embodiment, if the elapsed time of the connection setting mode at the completion timing of the initial setting process is long, the timeout time is extended. This allows sufficient time for the user to perform operations for the connection setting process even if the completion of the initial setting process by the communication device (151) is delayed.

[0060] <Configuration of the Operation Display Unit of the Communication Device>

[0061] FIGS. 2a and FIGS. 2b are schematic drawings illustrating an example of the configuration of an operation display unit (160) of a communication device (151).

[0062] In FIG. 2a, the panel (208) is a touch panel, and the user can operate the communication device (151) by touching the panel (208). The power button (201) is a physical button located around the panel (208). When the power button (201) is pressed by the user while the communication device (151) is in a software-off state, power is supplied to the entire communication device (151), and the communication device (151) shifts to a software-on state. A software-off state is a state in which power is supplied to a minimum of the components of the communication device (151), such as the CPU (154), but power is not supplied to the display unit of, for example, the printing engine (155) and the operation display unit (160).

[0063] The software-on state is a state in which power is supplied to the entire configuration of the communication device (151), including the printing engine (155) and the operation display unit (160).

[0064] When the communication device (151) shifts to a software-on state, a home screen is displayed on the panel (208). The home screen is the top level of the menu that the user can operate. The home screen includes a copy area (205) that receives instructions for performing a copy process, a scan area (206) that receives instructions for performing a scan process, and a print area (207) that receives instructions for performing a print process. The home screen further includes a status display area (202) that displays the settings and connection status of the infrastructure connection and direct connection of the communication device (151), a connection setting mode area (203) that initiates operation in the connection setting mode at any timing by the user, and a setting area (204) that changes various settings.

[0065] FIG. 2b illustrates an example of the configuration of an operation display unit (160) having a display unit smaller than that shown in FIG. 2a. In this example, the buttons (209, 210 and 211) and the buttons (213 to 218) are physical buttons. The user turns on the communication device (151) by pressing the power button (210).

[0066] When the communication device (151) is turned on, a home screen is displayed on the panel (212). The home screen is the top level of the menu that the user can operate. The user can operate the cursor displayed on the panel (212) by pressing the operation button (213 or 214). The user performs the operation by pressing the OK button (216) or returns to the previous menu screen by pressing the RETURN button (215). The panel (212) may also display a QR (Quick Response) code® containing information for establishing a direct connection with the communication device (151) when the QR button (209) is pressed. By reading the QR code from the information processing device (101), a direct connection is established between the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151), thereby enabling wireless communication between the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151). Specifically, the information included in the QR code is connection information for establishing a connection with a communication device (151) operating in direct connection mode. The communication device (151) starts operation in direct connection mode when the QR button (209) is pressed. The communication device (151) starts operation in connection setting mode when the connection setting mode button (211) is pressed. The communication device (151) cancels the execution of various processes currently being performed when the stop button (217) is pressed. The communication device (151) starts a copying process when the copy start button (218) is pressed.

[0067] Processes performed by the system's devices

[0068] FIGS. 3a and 3b illustrate a flowchart of a process performed when a communication device (151) accepts the press of a power button. The flowchart of FIG. 3 is realized by a CPU (154), for example, by reading a program stored in ROM (152) into RAM (153) and executing the read program.

[0069] Additionally, the flowcharts illustrated in FIGS. 3a and 3b are initiated when the software-off communication device (151) accepts the press of the power button from the user.

[0070] In step S301, the CPU (154) starts powering the entire communication device (151) and shifts the communication device (151) from a software-off state to a software-on state.

[0071] In step S302, the CPU (154) refers to information stored in RAM (153) indicating whether it is an initial setup time, and the CPU (154) determines whether it is an initial setup time. Specifically, the initial setup time flag in RAM (153) is ON when the communication device (151) is started for the first time after the user has connected the communication device (151) (when the user presses the power button to shift the communication device (151) to a software-on state). Conversely, when the communication device (151) is started at a second or subsequent time after the initial setup process is completed, the initial setup time flag in RAM (153) is OFF. That is, the CPU (154) makes the determination in step S302 by checking whether the initial setup time flag is ON or OFF. Alternatively, the determination may be made by determining, for example, whether the communication device (151) has previously performed an initial setup process. If the CPU (154) determines that it is the initial setting time (yes in step S302), the process proceeds to step S303. If the CPU (154) determines that it is not the initial setting time (no in step S302), the process proceeds to step S324. According to the present exemplary embodiment, the process of step S302 is performed based on whether the initial setting time flag is on or off, but information other than the flag may be used. In this case, for example, information indicating that it is the initial setting time when the communication device (151) is loaded is stored in RAM (153).

[0072] If the CPU (154) determines that it is not the initial setup time (No at step S302), the CPU (154) may terminate the process in the flowchart without performing the connection setup process. At this time, the CPU (154) may display a user interface (UI) to prompt the user to select whether to perform the connection mode setup process, and based on the response from the user, control whether to proceed to step S324 or terminate the process in the flowchart.

[0073] If the CPU (154) determines that it is an initial setup time (yes in step S302), the CPU (154) displays a screen for the initial setup process through the initial setup process initiated in step S303, whereas if the CPU (154) determines that it is not an initial setup time (no in step S302), the CPU (154) displays, for example, a home screen. Even if the CPU (154) determines that it is not an initial setup time (no in step S302) and the communication device (151) subsequently starts operation in the connection setup mode, a screen for the connection setup mode indicating that the communication device (151) is in the connection setup mode may be displayed.

[0074] In step S303, the CPU (154) initiates an initial setup process. Step S304 and subsequent steps are initiated without waiting for the completion of the initial setup process and are performed in parallel with the initial setup process initiated at this time. Below, details of the initial setup process will be described with reference to FIG. 4.

[0075] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an initial setup process performed by a communication device (151) according to the present exemplary embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 4 is realized by a CPU (154), for example, by reading a program stored in a ROM (152) and executing the read program. The flowchart of FIG. 4 is initiated when step S303 is performed.

[0076] In step S401, the CPU (154) determines whether an ink cartridge is attached to the communication device (151) based on the detection result by the detection unit (not shown) of the communication device (151). If the recording head and the ink tank are separated, the CPU (154) determines whether at least the recording head is attached to the communication device (151). If the CPU (154) determines that the ink cartridge is attached to the communication device (151) (yes in step S401), the process proceeds to step S402. If the CPU (154) determines that the ink cartridge is not attached to the communication device (151) (no in step S401), the process proceeds to step S403. The operation of attaching the ink cartridge or the recording head is an operation performed by a user on the communication device (151).

[0077] In step S403, the CPU (154) provides an ink cartridge notification to the user by flashing an LED of the operation display unit (160) or by displaying a specific screen on the operation display unit (160). Specifically, the CPU (154) provides a notification that the communication device (151) is in a state of waiting for the ink cartridge to be attached, or provides a notification of the method for attaching the ink cartridge. The methods for the notifications are not particularly limited. For example, the CPU (154) may provide an audio notification using a speaker (not shown).

[0078] Then, in step S404, the CPU (154) determines whether the ink cartridge is attached to the communication device (151) based on the detection result by the detection unit (not shown) of the communication device (151). As in step S401, when the record head and the ink tank are separated, the CPU (154) determines whether at least the record head is attached to the communication device (151). If the CPU (154) determines that the ink cartridge is attached to the communication device (151) (yes in step S404), the process proceeds to step S402. Conversely, if the CPU (154) determines that the ink cartridge is not attached to the communication device (151) (no in step S404), step S404 is performed again. According to the present exemplary embodiment, no timeout is set for the determination of step S403, and the determination of step S403 is repeated until the ink cartridge is attached by the user or the communication device (151) shifts to a software-off state. Thus, if it takes time for the user to complete the attachment of the ink cartridge, it takes time to complete the initial setup process. If a skip operation to skip the attachment of the ink cartridge is performed by the user, the CPU (154) may determine that the ink cartridge is attached to the communication device (151) (e.g., in step S404). Until the CPU (154) determines that the ink cartridge is attached to the communication device (151) (e.g., in step S404), the CPU (154) may continue the notification of step S403.

[0079] In step S402, the CPU (154) initiates an initial setting time cleaning process. Specifically, the CPU (154) moves the carriage to a location where a cleaning member, such as a waste ink absorber and a capping mechanism for capping the discharge port of a recording head, is positioned.

[0080] Afterward, the CPU (154) caps the output port of the recording head using a capping mechanism and operates a pump connected to the capping mechanism. By performing this operation, the CPU (154) generates negative pressure within the capping mechanism and refreshes the ink in the output port by ejecting foreign substances, such as thickened ink and bubbles, through suction through the output port. The CPU (154) wipes away foreign substances, such as ink, attached to the output port surface of the recording head using a wiper. The cleaning process is performed at timings other than the initial setting time, for example, before printing starts, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the previous printing, and at the timing of the shift to the software-on state after the anomaly has ended. This normal cleaning process may differ from the cleaning process at the initial setting time. Specifically, in order to fill the flow path from the head to the nozzle or the flow path from the ink tank to the head with ink, the suction force of the negative pressure, the suction amount, and the number of suctions can be set to be greater than in a normal cleaning operation at an initial setting time. Alternatively, the viscosity of the ink in the recording head can be reduced by heating it.

[0081] The CPU (154) detects errors occurring in the communication device (151) during the initial setup time cleaning process. Examples of errors that can be detected by detection include incomplete head attachment errors and carriage position errors.

[0082] An incomplete head attachment error is an error resulting from the incomplete attachment of an ink cartridge (record head) to a carriage. For example, if an ink cartridge is incompletely attached to a carriage, the ink cartridge may extend over the carriage's drive path. In this case, the ink cartridge strikes a predetermined component within the communication device (151) while the carriage is moving, causing the carriage to stop at the location of the component. The CPU (154) detects, for example, the amount of movement of the carriage and determines that an incomplete head attachment error has occurred if the detected amount of movement corresponds to the amount of movement from the location where the cartridge is attached to the location of the component. Additionally, for example, if an ink cartridge is incompletely attached to a carriage, the ink cartridge may be detached from the carriage while the carriage is moving or during a cleaning process. The CPU (154) detects whether the ink cartridge is attached to the carriage, for example, using a cartridge sensor. If the cartridge sensor does not detect an ink cartridge attached to the carriage while the carriage is moving or during a cleaning process, the CPU (154) determines that an incomplete head attachment error has occurred. The incomplete head attachment error is resolved when the user opens the cover again and attaches the cartridge correctly.

[0083] A carriage position error is an error caused by the presence of foreign matter on the carriage's drive path. For example, if foreign matter is present on the carriage's drive path, the foreign matter obstructs the movement of the carriage, thereby reducing the carriage's movement amount. Accordingly, the CPU (154) detects, for example, the actual movement amount of the carriage and the force (driving force) used to drive the carriage, and if the actual movement amount is less than the driving force, the CPU (154) determines that a carriage position error has occurred. The carriage position error is resolved when the user removes the foreign matter.

[0084] When an error is detected, the CPU (154) performs an error notification process to provide a notification of the detected error. Specifically, for example, a screen for providing a notification of the detected error is displayed on the operation display unit (160). If the communication device (151) is connected to the information processing device (101) as a result of initiating a connection setup process when an error is detected, the CPU (154) transmits information to the information processing device (101) to display the detected error on the display unit of the information processing device (101). The CPU (154) may be configured to perform an error notification process when the communication device (151) receives an inquiry from the connected information processing device (101).

[0085] In step S405, the CPU (154) determines whether all processes included in the initial setup process have been completed. If all processes included in the initial setup process have not been completed (No in step S405), the CPU (154) repeats step S405 until all processes included in the initial setup process have been completed. Conversely, if all processes included in the initial setup process have been completed (Yes in step S405), the process proceeds to step S406. If the aforementioned errors occur, the initial setup process additionally includes a process for detecting that the error has been resolved. Thus, one of the processes included in the initial setup process is determined to be completed when the error is resolved by user operation. According to the present exemplary embodiment, the initial setup process includes a process for detecting an attached ink cartridge and an initial setup time cleaning process as described above. However, this is not a limiting form. For example, the initial setup process may include a process for receiving user operations to set the language used for display by the communication device (151), a process for receiving user operations to answer a questionnaire regarding the environment in which the communication device (151) is used, and a registration adjustment process. The processes included in the initial setup process may be performed in any order.

[0086] When all processes included in the initial setup process are completed (e.g., in step S405), the CPU (154) changes information indicating whether it is the initial setup time so that when the communication device (151) shifts to the next and subsequent software-on state, the changed information indicates that it is not the initial setup time. Specifically, the CPU (154) changes the contents of the initial setup time flag. The timing for changing the information indicating whether it is the initial setup time is not limited to the timing described above and may be any time after the determination of whether it is the initial setup time is performed.

[0087] In step S406, the CPU (154) provides a notification to the user regarding the completion of the initial setup process by flashing an LED of the operation display unit (160) or by displaying a specific screen on the operation display unit (160). Specifically, the CPU (154) displays, for example, a screen on the operation display unit (160) notifying the user of the completion of the initial setup process. The methods for providing notifications are not particularly limited. For example, the CPU (154) may provide an audio notification using a speaker (not shown).

[0088] In step S407, the CPU (154) displays the home screen on the operation display unit (160).

[0089] After that, the CPU (154) terminates the process of the flowchart.

[0090] As described above, the user needs to perform the operation of attaching an ink cartridge to complete the initial setup process. The user also needs to remove the packaging of the communication device (151) if the user has just unpacked the communication device (151). As described above, various user operations need to be performed to complete the initial setup process, and thus the time required to complete the initial setup process varies depending on the user.

[0091] We will return to the explanation of Fig. 3a.

[0092] In step S304, the CPU (154) determines whether any connection mode has already been set for the communication device (151). Connection modes other than the direct connection mode and the infrastructure connection mode may be set for the communication device (151). For example, a wired LAN connection mode may be set. The wired LAN connection mode is a mode for connecting to another device via a wired LAN. According to the present exemplary embodiment, if the wired LAN connection mode is set for the communication device (151), the direct connection mode or the infrastructure connection mode cannot be set, and the communication device (151) cannot perform wireless LAN communication (communication based on IEEE 802.11 series communication standards). The wired LAN connection mode may be set for the communication device (151) even if the communication device (151) is not connected to a wired LAN. The CPU (154) may also determine whether the communication device (151) has a prior connection to an external access point in the infrastructure connection mode. Specifically, the communication device (151) stores information regarding a previously connected external access point in a predetermined storage area. When information regarding a previously connected external access point is stored in a corresponding storage area, the CPU (154) determines that the communication device (151) has a previous connection to the external access point. If information regarding a previously connected external access point is not stored while a default value is stored in the corresponding storage area, the CPU (154) determines that the communication device (151) does not have previous connections to the external access point. The information stored in the corresponding storage area can be reset to a default value by a reset operation. A reset operation is an operation that resets the connection settings of the communication device (151) performed on the communication device (151), and is different from an operation of pressing a power button.When a reset operation is performed, the communication device (151) resets the connection mode set for the communication device (151) and returns to a state where no connection modes are set. Accordingly, if the CPU (154) determines that a connection mode is set for the communication device (151) (Yes in step S304), it determines that the connection mode has already been set or was previously set for the communication device (151). Accordingly, if the CPU (154) determines that a connection mode is set for the communication device (151) (Yes in step S304), the CPU (154) determines that the connection setting process is unnecessary, and the processing proceeds to step S317 without causing the communication device (151) to start operation in the connection setting mode. Conversely, if the CPU (154) determines that no connection modes are set for the communication device (151) (No in step S304), the processing proceeds to step S305.

[0093] In step S305, the CPU (154) determines whether a USB cable is connected to the communication device (151). If the USB cable is connected (yes in step S305), the communication device (151) may communicate with another device via USB rather than a wireless network. Therefore, if the CPU (154) determines that the USB cable is connected (yes in step S305), the CPU (154) determines that the connection setup process is unnecessary, and the process proceeds to step S317 without causing the communication device (151) to start operation in the connection setup mode. While the CPU (154) determines whether the USB cable is connected in the present specification, the CPU (154) may also determine whether a wired LAN cable is connected. Additionally, the CPU (154) may determine whether both the USB cable is connected and the wired LAN cable is connected. If the CPU (154) determines that a wired LAN cable is connected, a wired LAN connection mode may be set for the communication device (151). Conversely, if the CPU (154) determines that a USB cable is not connected to the communication device (151) (No in step S305), the process proceeds to step S306.

[0094] In step S306, the CPU (154) causes the communication device (151) to start operating in the connection setting mode. That is, after the power button is pressed, the communication device (151) automatically starts operating in the connection setting mode without any operation of the connection setting mode area (203) or the connection setting mode button (211).

[0095] At this time, the CPU (154) can display a screen on the operation display unit (160) that indicates that the connection setting mode has been started.

[0096] In step S307, the CPU (154) initiates a timer measurement to measure (count) the elapsed time of the connection setting mode and waits for the transmission of setting information from the information processing device (101). According to the present exemplary embodiment, the value counted in the timer measurement is a value in minutes that is incremented every time one minute elapses, but this is not a limited form. For example, the value may be a value in seconds that is incremented every time one second elapses.

[0097] In step S308, the CPU (154) determines whether setting information has been received from the information processing device (101).

[0098] When the CPU (154) determines that configuration information has been received from the information processing device (101) (e.g., in step S308), the processing proceeds to step S309. In step S309, the CPU (154) terminates the operation of the communication device (151) in the connection configuration mode, and then in step S310, the CPU (154) stops the timer measurement. When the connection configuration mode is terminated while the connection between the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151) is established through a dedicated AP for the connection configuration mode, the connection between the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151) is disconnected. In step S311, the CPU (154) performs a connection configuration process for the communication device (151) based on the received configuration information. Specifically, the CPU (154) sets the connection mode based on the received configuration information. Now, details of the connection configuration process of the communication device (151) will be described.

[0099] When information (AP information) corresponding to an infrastructure access mode is received as configuration information, the CPU (154) registers the AP corresponding to the configuration information in RAM (153) through a connection setup process as an AP to be used in the infrastructure access mode, and establishes a connection between the AP and the communication device (151). If an encryption key is required to use the AP, the CPU (154) registers the encryption key. After the AP is properly registered and the connection is established, the CPU (154) sets the communication device (151) to an infrastructure access mode in which communication through the registered AP can be performed. Accordingly, the communication device (151) operates in a state where it can wirelessly connect to the information processing device (101) through the registered AP. When information corresponding to a WFD mode or a software AP mode is received as configuration information, the CPU (154) transmits connection information to the information processing device (101) to connect to an AP that supports the WFD mode or the software AP mode before terminating the connection setup mode of the communication device (151). Accordingly, when information corresponding to WFD mode or software AP mode is received as setting information, the CPU (154) terminates the connection setting mode, and then performs a connection setting process to enable an AP that supports WFD mode or software AP mode, and sets the communication device (151) to WFD mode or software AP mode. In this state, if a connection request including connection information transmitted before the connection setting mode is terminated is received from the information processing device (101) to which the setting information was transmitted, the CPU (154) establishes a connection between the communication device (151) and the information processing device (101) using a P2P method. By doing so, the communication device (151) operates in a state where it can wirelessly connect to the information processing device (101) using a P2P method. After the connection setting process is completed, the processing proceeds to step S317.

[0100] The details of the connection setup process are not limited to those described above. For example, depending on the setup information received from the information processing device (101), only the infrastructure connection mode may be set while the direct connection mode is not set. When information corresponding to the infrastructure connection mode (AP information) is received as the setup information, for example, the communication device (151) may be set to the infrastructure connection mode as well as the WFD mode or software AP mode simultaneously.

[0101] In contrast, if the CPU (154) determines that configuration information has not been received from the information processing device (101) (No in step S308), the processing proceeds to step S312. In step S312, the CPU (154) determines whether the USB cable is connected to the communication device (151). This determination is performed because there may be cases where a user connects the USB cable to the communication device (151) and uses the communication device (151) via USB communication after the communication device (151) has started operating in the connection setting mode. The details of the process in step S312 are similar to those of step S305. If the CPU (154) determines that the USB cable is connected to the communication device (151) (Yes in step S312), the processing proceeds to step S315. In step S315, the CPU (154) terminates the operation of the communication device (151) in the connection setting mode. In step S316, the CPU (154) stops the timer measurement. Then, the processing proceeds to step S317.

[0102] In contrast, if the CPU (154) determines that the USB cables are not connected to the communication device (151) (No at step S312), the processing proceeds to step S313. At step S313, the CPU (154) determines whether the elapsed time of the connection setting mode measured by the timer measurement has exceeded the timeout time. According to this exemplary embodiment, the timeout time before the timeout time is changed by the timeout time change process described later is 60 minutes, which is not a limited form and any values ​​may be used. If the CPU (154) determines that the elapsed time of the connection setting mode measured by the timer measurement has exceeded the timeout time (Yes at step S313), the processing proceeds to step S315. If the CPU (154) determines that the elapsed time of the connection setting mode measured by the timer measurement has not exceeded the timeout time (No at step S313), the processing proceeds to step S314.

[0103] In step S314, the CPU (154) determines whether the initial setup process is completed. The completion of the initial setup process is as described above with reference to FIG. 4. If the CPU (154) determines that the initial setup process is not completed (No in step S314), the processing proceeds to step S308, and the CPU (154) waits for the transmission of setup information from the information processing device (101). On the other hand, if the CPU (154) determines that the initial setup process is completed (Yes in step S314), the processing proceeds to step S318.

[0104] In step S317, as in step S314, the CPU (154) determines whether the initial setup process is complete. If the CPU (154) determines that the initial setup process is not complete (No in step S317), the process returns to step S317, and the CPU (154) waits until the initial setup process is complete. Conversely, if the CPU (154) determines that the initial setup process is complete (Yes in step S317), the process proceeds to step S318.

[0105] In step S318, the CPU (154) determines whether the communication device (151) is operating in a connection setup mode. If the CPU (154) determines that the communication device (151) is operating in a connection setup mode (yes in step S318), the process proceeds to step S319. If the CPU (154) determines that the communication device (151) is not operating in a connection setup mode (no in step S318), the process proceeds to step S324. The case where the CPU (154) determines that the communication device (151) is operating in a connection setup mode (yes in step S318) is when the initial setup process is completed without timing out the connection setup mode (yes in step S314). Examples of cases where the CPU (154) determines that the communication device (151) is not operating in the connection setting mode (No in step S318) include cases where the initial setting process is completed after the connection setting mode times out, and cases where the initial setting process is completed without initiating operation in the connection setting mode (Yes in step S317).

[0106] In step S319, the CPU (154) determines whether the elapsed time of the connection setup mode measured in the timer measurement is short. That is, this process determines whether the remaining time before the connection setup mode times out and terminates is long. Specifically, the CPU (154) determines whether the value calculated by subtracting the elapsed time of the connection setup mode from the timeout time is smaller than a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold used for determination is 15 minutes according to this exemplary embodiment, but this is not a limited form, and any value may be used. The determination can, for example, determine whether the elapsed time of the connection setup mode is greater than the threshold. If the CPU (154) determines that the elapsed time of the connection setup mode measured in the timer measurement is short (yes in step S319), sufficient time remains before the connection setup mode times out and terminates, and therefore the processing proceeds to step S321 without changing the timeout time and the elapsed time of the connection setup mode by the CPU (154).

[0107] In contrast, if the CPU (154) determines that the elapsed time of the connection setup mode measured in the timer measurement is not short (No in step (S319)), the remaining time before the connection setup mode times out and terminates is not long, and therefore the processing proceeds to step (S320). In step S320, the CPU (154) performs a process of changing the timeout time. Specifically, this process is a process of changing the timeout time such that, for example, the value calculated by subtracting the elapsed time of the connection setup mode from the timeout time becomes a predetermined value. The predetermined value is set to, for example, 15 minutes, but is not limited thereto, and any value may be used. Specifically, in this form, for example, if the timeout time is 60 minutes and the elapsed time of the connection setup mode is 50 minutes, the timeout time is changed to 65 minutes. Additionally, the process may be a process of changing the timeout time to be greater than the timeout time before the change, for example, without based on the elapsed time of the connection setup mode. At this time, for example, a value is added to the timeout time, and the added value may be a predetermined value or a value that changes according to the elapsed time of the connection setup mode. This process may be any process that controls the remaining time before the connection setup mode times out and terminates to be extended. Accordingly, for example, the process is not limited to a process that changes the timeout time, but may be a process that changes the elapsed time of the connection setup mode to increase the remaining time before the connection setup mode times out and terminates. Specifically, for example, the elapsed time of the connection setup mode may be changed so that the value calculated by subtracting the elapsed time of the connection setup mode from the timeout time becomes a predetermined value. Specifically, in this form, if the timeout time is 60 minutes and the elapsed time of the connection setup mode is 50 minutes, the elapsed time of the connection setup mode is changed to 45 minutes.Additionally, for example, the process may be a process that changes the connection setting mode elapsed time without based on the timeout time so that the changed connection setting mode elapsed time is less than the connection setting mode elapsed time before the change. In this case, for example, a value is subtracted from the connection setting mode elapsed time, and the subtracted value may be a predetermined value or a value that changes according to the connection setting mode elapsed time. Additionally, for example, the process may be a process that resets the connection setting mode elapsed time (sets the connection setting mode elapsed time to zero). Additionally, for example, both the timeout time and the connection setting mode elapsed time may be changed. Specifically, in this form, for example, if the timeout time is 60 minutes and the connection setting mode elapsed time is 50 minutes, the connection setting mode elapsed time is reset and the timeout time is changed to 15 minutes. In the form where both the timeout time and the connection setting mode elapsed time are changed as described above, the timeout time may be changed so that the changed timeout time becomes smaller than the value before the change. After that, the processing proceeds to step S321.

[0108] In step S324, which is performed when the CPU (154) determines that it is not an initial setup time (No in step S302) or when the CPU (154) determines that the communication device (151) is not operating in a connection setup mode (No in step S318), the CPU (154) determines whether a connection mode is set for the communication device (151). The details of step S324 are similar to those of step S304. If the CPU (154) determines that a connection mode is set for the communication device (151) (Yes in step S324), the CPU (154) terminates the process in the flowchart without causing the communication device (151) to start operating in a connection setup mode. Conversely, if the CPU (154) determines that no connection modes are set for the communication device (151) (No in step S324), the process proceeds to step S325.

[0109] In step S325, the CPU (154) determines whether the USB cable is connected to the communication device (151). The details of step S325 are similar to those of step S305. If the CPU (154) determines that the USB cable is connected to the communication device (151) (yes in step S325), the CPU (154) terminates the process in the flowchart without causing the communication device (151) to start operation in the connection setup mode. Conversely, if the CPU (154) determines that the USB cable is not connected to the communication device (151) (no in step S325), the process proceeds to step S326.

[0110] In step S326, the CPU (154) causes the communication device (151) to start operation in the connection setup mode. The details of step S326 are similar to those of step S306.

[0111] In step S327, the CPU (154) initiates a timer measurement to measure the elapsed time of the connection setting mode and waits for the transmission of setting information from the information processing device (101). The details of step S327 are similar to those of step S307. After that, the processing proceeds to step S321.

[0112] In step S321, the CPU (154) determines whether setting information has been received from the information processing device (101). If the CPU (154) determines that setting information has been received from the information processing device (101) (yes in step S321), the processing proceeds to step S328. If the CPU (154) determines that setting information has not been received from the information processing device (101) (no in step S321), the processing proceeds to step S322.

[0113] The details of steps S328 through S330 are similar to those of steps S309 through S311. After step S330, the CPU (154) terminates the process of the flowchart.

[0114] In step S322, the CPU (154) determines whether the USB cable is connected to the communication device (151). The details of step S322 are similar to those of step S312. If the CPU (154) determines that the USB cable is connected to the communication device (151) (yes in step S322), the process proceeds to step S331. If the CPU (154) determines that the USB cables are not connected to the communication device (151) (no in step S322), the process proceeds to step S323.

[0115] In step S323, the CPU (154) determines whether the elapsed time of the connection setup mode measured by the timer measurement has exceeded the timeout time. At this time, if the timeout time was changed in step S320, the determination is made based on the changed timeout time. If the CPU (154) determines that the elapsed time of the connection setup mode measured by the timer measurement has exceeded the timeout time (yes in step S323), the process proceeds to step S331. If the CPU (154) determines that the elapsed time of the connection setup mode measured by the timer measurement has not exceeded the timeout time (no in step S323), the process returns to step S321.

[0116] The details of steps S331 and S332 are similar to those of steps S315 and S316. After step S332, the CPU (154) terminates the process of the flowchart.

[0117] As described above, according to the exemplary embodiment, if the remaining time before the operation in the connection setting mode ends after the completion of the initial setup process is short (No at step S319) as a result of the time taken to complete the initial setup process, the timeout time is extended. This allows sufficient time for the user to establish a connection between the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151) and to set the connection mode of the communication device (151). According to the exemplary embodiment, for example, if the remaining time before the operation in the connection setting mode ends after the completion of the initial setup process is long (Yes at step S319), the timeout time is not changed. Additionally, for example, if the connection setting mode is initiated without initiating the initial setup process (if step S326 is performed after the CPU (154) determines that it is not the initial setup time (No at step S302)), the timeout time is not changed. This prevents the connection setting mode from continuing for an excessively long time and ensures a secure connection of the communication device (151).

[0118] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a process performed by an information processing device (101) to enable a communication device (151) to perform a connection setup process. The flowchart is realized by the CPU (103) loading a control program for the flowchart stored in ROM (104) or an external storage device (not shown) into RAM (105) and executing the loaded control program.

[0119] In step S501, the CPU (103) receives user operation and starts a wireless LAN configuration application. The wireless LAN configuration application is an application for setting a connection mode for a communication device (151). The wireless LAN configuration application may include other functions, such as transmitting a print job to the communication device (151) to cause the communication device (151) to perform printing. The wireless LAN configuration application is a program stored in an internal storage device (not shown) of the information processing device (101) and is pre-installed on the information processing device (101) by the user. The connection mode setting process described below is realized by the CPU (103) executing the wireless LAN configuration application.

[0120] An example of setting the communication device (151) to infrastructure access mode by a wireless LAN configuration application by registering an AP to be used in infrastructure access mode to the communication device (151) will be described later. AP registration can be performed without using a wireless LAN configuration application, by using a service on the Internet through a web browser, or by using other functions of the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151). In addition, at this time, the CPU (103) temporarily stores AP information regarding the AP to which the information processing device (101) is connected in the RAM (105).

[0121] In step S502, the CPU (103) searches for APs that the information processing device (101) can access via the communication unit (109). The AP search can be performed automatically when the wireless LAN configuration application is launched or in response to instructions from the user. The AP search is performed by receiving beacons transmitted from the APs by the communication unit (109).

[0122] In step S503, the CPU (103) displays a list of APs (AP search results) detected through AP search in step S502 on the operation display unit (108). At this time, the CPU (103) displays, for example, a list of the SSIDs of the APs. In step S503, the CPU (103) can automatically extract APs having SSIDs in a format that follows the aforementioned rule for the dedicated AP SSID for the connection setting mode, and can display the extracted APs. At this time, if there are multiple SSIDs in a format that follows the aforementioned rule, the multiple SSIDs are displayed, and the user is prompted to select an SSID from the displayed SSIDs. When such a configuration is used, step S505 described later may be skipped.

[0123] When APs are displayed in step S503, the user selects an AP from the search results that corresponds to the communication device targeted for connection mode setting.

[0124] In step S504, the CPU (103) detects reception of the AP selected by the user.

[0125] In step S505, the CPU (103) determines whether the AP selected in step S504 corresponds to the communication device that is the target of the wireless LAN configuration application. Specifically, the CPU (103) determines whether the selected AP is an AP that has an SSID in the format according to the above-described rule for the dedicated AP SSID for the connection configuration mode. If the CPU (103) determines that the selected AP is not an AP within the target communication device, the CPU (103) waits for the detection of another AP selected by the user. At this time, the CPU (103) may display a screen on the operation display unit (108) to notify the user that the selected AP is inappropriate. Additionally, the CPU (103) may terminate the process if there are no APs corresponding to the target communication device or if there are no APs in the communication device intended by the user.

[0126] As described above, steps S503 to S505 prompt the user to manually select the AP of the communication device to be set to the connection mode. However, this is not a limited form. For example, the CPU (103) can automatically select an AP having an SSID in a format that follows the rules described above from among the APs detected by searching in step S502 as the AP of the communication device to be set to the connection mode.

[0127] When a communication device to be configured is selected in step S505, the CPU (103) exchanges parameters (connection information) for establishing a wireless connection between the information processing device (101) and the communication device (151). Connection information for connecting to a dedicated AP for the connection configuration mode is stored in advance by a wireless LAN configuration application so that the information processing device (101) connects to the dedicated AP for the connection configuration mode and communicates with the communication device (151).

[0128] In step S506, the CPU (103) transmits the AP information temporarily stored in the RAM (105) in step S501 to the communication device (151) as configuration information through the dedicated AP for the connection configuration mode connected in step S505. Upon receiving the AP information, the communication device (151) is configured to an infrastructure connection mode in which a connection can be established through the AP based on the AP information.

[0129] In step S507, the CPU (103) terminates the connection to the dedicated AP for the connection setup mode and reconnects to the AP based on the AP information temporarily stored in the RAM (105) in step S501 so that the CPU (103) can communicate with the communication device (151) through the reconnected AP. At this time, the CPU (103) registers the communication device (151) in the RAM (105) as the communication device to be connected to by the information processing device (101). After that, the CPU (103) terminates the wireless LAN setup application.

[0130] Steps S502 through S504 do not always necessarily need to be performed by a wireless LAN configuration application. Other applications installed on the information processing device (101) can search for a dedicated AP for the connection configuration mode, and the wireless LAN configuration application can obtain the search results.

[0131] Since the CPU (103) communicates with the communication device (151) through a dedicated AP for the connection setup mode, the CPU (103) transmits setup information to the communication device (151) using an IEEE 802.11 series communication standard (i.e., Wi-Fi). This is not a limited form, and the CPU (103) may transmit setup information to the communication device (151) using a communication standard different from, for example, the IEEE 802.11 series communication standard. Examples of communication standards that may be used at this time include Bluetooth Classic, Bluetooth Low Energy, Near Field Communication, and Wi-Fi Aware®. In this form, the CPU (103) can transmit setup information to the communication device (151) using a different communication standard while maintaining a Wi-Fi connection to the AP for use in the infrastructure connection mode.

[0132] In the above description, the CPU (103) sets an infrastructure connection mode for the communication device (151), but this is not a limited form. For example, other connection modes, such as WFD mode or software AP mode, may be set for the communication device (151). The connection mode set for the communication device (151) may be determined, for example, by receiving a user selection through a screen displayed by a wireless LAN configuration application, or may be automatically determined by a wireless LAN configuration application based on the communication environment of the information processing device (101). For example, when setting the connection mode for the communication device (151), the infrastructure connection mode is selected as the connection mode to be set for the communication device (151) when the information processing device (101) is connected to the AP. When setting a connection mode for a communication device (151), for example, when an information processing device (101) is not connected to APs, a P2P method connection mode such as a WFD mode or a software AP mode is selected as the connection mode to be set for the communication device (151).

[0133] According to the above configuration, when a user performs a connection setting for a communication device (151) using an information processing device (101), a timeout time for the connection setting mode is set. This improves usability because there are many opportunities for the user to easily change the connection setting.

[0134] As described above, according to the exemplary embodiment, the communication device (151) may initiate operation in a connection setting mode under various conditions. Specifically, for example, the communication device (151) initiates operation in a connection setting mode at step S306 based on a condition (condition 1) that the communication device (151) is shifted to a software-on state and initial setup is not completed. Additionally, for example, the communication device (151) initiates operation in a connection setting mode at step S326 based on a condition (condition 2) that the communication device (151) is shifted to a software-on state and initial setup is completed. Additionally, for example, the communication device (151) initiates operation in a connection setting mode based on a condition (condition 3) that the communication device (151) receives a predetermined operation (an operation on the connection setting mode area (203) or the connection setting mode button (211)) to initiate the connection setting mode. Additionally, for example, the communication device (151) initiates operation in the connection setting mode based on the condition (condition 4) that the communication device (151) receives a reset operation. Additionally, for example, the communication device (151) initiates operation in the connection setting mode based on the condition (condition 5) that the initial setting process is completed after the connection setting mode initiated based on condition 1 has timed out and stopped. Accordingly, the communication device (151) can change the timeout time based on the condition that initiates operation in the connection setting mode. According to the present exemplary embodiment, the timeout time of the connection setting mode initiated based on condition 1 before the change is longer than that of the connection setting modes initiated based on other conditions. For example, the timeout time of the connection setting mode initiated based on condition 1 before the change is set to 60 minutes, and the timeout time of the connection setting mode initiated based on other conditions is set to 15 minutes. Alternatively, the same timeout time may be set for all conditions for initiating operation in the connection setting mode.According to the present exemplary embodiment, the timeout time of the connection setting mode initiated based on condition 1 may be changed by a timeout time change process, whereas the timeout time of the connection setting mode initiated based on other conditions is not changed. Operation in the connection setting mode does not need to be initiated in all of the cases described above, and the conditions described above may include conditions based on the non-initiation of operation in the connection setting mode. As described above, according to the present exemplary embodiment, a process is performed to select whether the communication device (151) will operate in the connection setting mode based on whether a USB cable or a wired LAN cable is connected. For example, the selection process is performed in connection setting modes initiated based on conditions 1, 2, 4, and 5, but the selection process may not be performed in the connection setting mode initiated based on condition 3, and the communication device (151) may always operate in the connection setting mode when a predetermined operation to initiate the connection setting mode is performed.

[0135] The exemplary embodiments described above may also be realized by performing the following process. Specifically, software (program) that realizes the functions of the exemplary embodiments described above is supplied to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and a computer (CPU or Micro-processing Unit (MPU)) of the system or device reads the program and executes the read program. Additionally, the program may be executed by a single computer or by multiple computers working together. Furthermore, the entire process described above does not necessarily have to be realized by software; the process may be partially or wholly realized by hardware such as an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). Additionally, the CPU is not limited to a single CPU configured to perform the entire process, and multiple CPUs may work together to perform the process as needed.

[0136] (Other embodiments)

[0137] Embodiments of the present invention may also be realized by a computer of a system or device comprising one or more circuits (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)) for performing the functions of one or more of the embodiments(s), by reading and executing computer-executable instructions (e.g., one or more programs) recorded on a storage medium (which may be more fully referred to as a 'non-transient computer-readable storage medium'), and / or by a method performed by the computer of the system or device by reading and executing computer-executable instructions from the storage medium to perform the functions of one or more of the embodiments(s) and / or by controlling one or more circuits to perform the functions of one or more of the embodiments(s). The computer may include one or more processors (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU)) and may include a network of individual computers or individual processors for reading and executing computer-executable instructions. Computer-executable instructions may be provided to the computer, for example, from a network or a storage medium. Storage media may include, for example, one or more of hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), storage of distributed computing systems, optical discs (e.g., compact discs (CD), digital multifunction discs (DVD) or Blu-ray discs (BD)™), flash memory devices, memory cards, etc.

[0138] (Other examples)

[0139] The present invention can be realized in a process in which a program realizing one or more of the above embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program.

[0140] In addition, it can also be implemented by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0141] Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims should be interpreted in the broadest sense to include structures and functions equivalent to all such variations.

Claims

Claim 1 A communication device comprising: a starting unit configured to initiate operation of the communication device in a connection setting mode and receive setting information from an information processing device; a setting unit configured to perform a connection setting of the communication device based on the setting information when the setting information is received from the information processing device while the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode; an execution unit configured to perform a predetermined process proceeding based on user operation; and a control unit configured to perform a first control that stops operation in the connection setting mode based on the elapsed time of the initiation of operation of the communication device in the connection setting mode without performing the connection setting when the predetermined process is not completed while the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode, and a second control that stops operation in the connection setting mode based on the elapsed time of the second time longer than the first time when the predetermined process is completed while the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode. Claim 2 A communication device according to claim 1, further comprising: a count unit configured to count a value corresponding to the time from the start of the operation of the communication device in the connection setting mode; and a determination unit configured to determine whether to stop the operation in the connection setting mode based on the counted value and a predetermined threshold value, wherein the first control includes a process for determining whether to stop the operation in the connection setting mode based on the counted value and the predetermined threshold value corresponding to the first time, and the second control includes a change process comprising at least one of a change that decreases the counted value and a change that increases the predetermined threshold value, and a process for determining whether to stop the operation in the connection setting mode based on the counted value and the predetermined threshold value after the change process. Claim 3 A communication device according to paragraph 2, wherein whether to perform the first control or the second control is controlled based on the time from the start of the operation of the communication device in the connection setting mode when the predetermined process is completed while the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode. Claim 4 A communication device according to paragraph 3, wherein, while the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode, the predetermined process is completed and the time from the start of the operation of the communication device in the connection setting mode is not greater than a specific threshold value, the first control is performed, and while the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode, the predetermined process is completed and the time from the start of the operation of the communication device in the connection setting mode is greater than the specific threshold value, the second control is performed. Claim 5 A communication device according to paragraph 2, wherein in the above change process, both the counted value and the predetermined threshold value are changed. Claim 6 A communication device according to claim 5, wherein a change to decrease the counted value and a change to decrease the predetermined threshold value are performed. Claim 7 In claim 1, the communication device is a communication device that initiates operation in the connection setting mode based on the pressing of the power button of the communication device without the completion of the predetermined process of the communication device. Claim 8 A communication device according to claim 7, wherein the communication device initiates operation in the connection setting mode based on the pressing of the power button of the communication device without the completion of the predetermined process of the communication device and based on the absence of connection of a USB (universal serial bus) cable to the communication device, and wherein the communication device does not initiate operation in the connection setting mode when the power button of the communication device is pressed without the completion of the predetermined process of the communication device and a USB cable is connected to the communication device. Claim 9 A communication device according to claim 7, wherein, when operation in the connection setting mode is initiated based on conditions different from the pressing of the power button of the communication device without the completion of the predetermined process of the communication device, a third control is performed to stop operation in the connection setting mode based on the elapsed time of a third time different from the first time and the second time without the execution of the connection setting from the initiation of operation of the communication device in the connection setting mode. Claim 10 In paragraph 9, the other condition comprises pressing the power button of the communication device in the completed state of the predetermined process of the communication device. Claim 11 A communication device according to claim 9, wherein the other condition comprises the performance of a predetermined operation on the communication device, and the predetermined operation is an operation to initiate operation in the connection setting mode, and is an operation different from pressing the power button. Claim 12 A communication device according to claim 9, wherein the other condition comprises the completion of the predetermined process after the operation in the connection setting mode is stopped based on the elapsed time of the first time from the start of the operation of the communication device in the connection setting mode without performing the connection setting. Claim 13 A communication device according to claim 1, wherein the operation in the connection setting mode is stopped when the connection setting of the communication device is performed. Claim 14 In paragraph 1, the communication device, wherein the predetermined process is an initial setup process that performs an initial setup of the communication device. Claim 15 In paragraph 14, the communication device, wherein the initial setup process includes a process for cleaning the components of the communication device. Claim 16 A communication device according to claim 1, wherein the connection setting of the communication device includes a process of connecting the communication device to an access point outside the communication device and the information processing device. Claim 17 A communication device according to claim 1, wherein the connection setting mode is a mode in which a predetermined access point of the communication device is enabled. Claim 18 A communication device according to claim 1, further comprising a printing unit configured to perform printing. Claim 19 A method for controlling a communication device, comprising: a step of initiating operation of the communication device in a connection setting mode to receive setting information from an information processing device; a step of performing a connection setting of the communication device based on the setting information when the setting information is received from the information processing device while the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode; a step of performing a predetermined process based on user operation; and a step of performing a first control to stop operation in the connection setting mode based on the elapsed time of the initiation of operation of the communication device in the connection setting mode without performing the connection setting when the predetermined process is not completed while the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode, and a second control to stop operation in the connection setting mode based on the elapsed time of the second time longer than the first time when the initiation of operation of the communication device in the connection setting mode without performing the connection setting when the predetermined process is completed while the communication device is operating in the connection setting mode.

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