JP2008204210A - Communication interface mutual setting device, electronic device, communication interface mutual setting method, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

A communication interface for data transfer is set regardless of the state of a system and user convenience.
A partner-side interface information receiving function for receiving a communication interface that can be used by a partner-side electronic device and a communication that can be used by the partner-side electronic device. Compare the interface with the communication interface that can be used on your own machine, set the common interface detection function to detect the communication interface common to both machines, and set one of the communication interfaces common to both machines as the communication interface for transfer data Equipped with a communication interface setting function for notifying electronic devices on the other side.
[Selection] Figure 4

Description

The invention described in this specification relates to a technology for setting a communication interface used for communication between electronic devices.
The invention has aspects as a communication interface mutual setting device, an electronic device, a communication interface mutual setting method, and a computer program.

  In recent years, interest in energy and environmental issues has increased. With this interest in the background, there is a further demand for reduction in power consumption of electronic devices used in daily life. For this reason, many electronic devices are equipped with a low-consumption operation mode in which an unused state after power-on is detected and power supply to unnecessary circuits and the like is automatically cut off.

  For example, in an image forming apparatus such as a printing apparatus or a FAX machine, when a state where no input signal is detected has passed for a certain period of time, the mode automatically shifts to a low power consumption mode. In the low power consumption mode, power supply to unnecessary circuits is controlled to be off except for circuits used for communication with external devices. When a return signal, image data, or the like is received from an external device, the supply of power to be supplied to each circuit is resumed. As a result, an image can be formed.

However, with the advance of digital image technology, electronic devices are required to support various communication forms and communication standards. For this reason, in recent electronic devices, a plurality of hardware interfaces (hereinafter referred to as “communication interfaces”) are mounted for communication with external devices.
Incidentally, the return from the low power consumption mode to the normal operation mode may be given as a return signal from an external device.

  For this reason, a mechanism for continuing to supply power to a communication interface used for communication with an external device even in the low power consumption mode is adopted in many electronic devices. FIG. 1 shows a power supply mode in the low power consumption mode.

FIG. 1 shows a case where the electronic device is a printing apparatus. In the case of the printing apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1, the circuit portion that is in the on state in the low power consumption mode is shown in white. In addition, the circuit portion in the off state in the low power consumption mode is shaded.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-196741

  By the way, in the data transfer executed after returning from the low power consumption mode, generally, one having a high effective transfer rate is selectively used among a plurality of communication interfaces mounted on the electronic device. In general, after the start of data transfer, the same communication interface is continuously used until transfer of the transfer data is completed.

  By the way, in an actual data transfer operation, a communication error may occur during data transfer or the effective transfer speed may not increase. However, it was necessary to continue using the same communication interface until the data transfer was completed.

  For example, in actual data transfer, a plurality of communication interfaces using the same UWB wireless communication method may be installed. In this case, data transfer is started using the communication interface that has received the return signal. In such a case, in order to use a communication interface with a higher effective transfer rate for data transfer, it is necessary to execute some negotiation.

  In many cases, the communication interface used for data transfer is selected based on the effective transfer rate. However, the communication interface suitable for data transfer varies depending on the state of the system and the usage pattern of the user. For this reason, it is desirable to variably set the communication interface used for data transfer.

(A) Solution 1
Therefore, the inventor proposes to mount a communication interface mutual setting device having the following processing functions on the electronic device side that receives the transfer data. The processing functions here are a transmission side interface information reception function, a common interface detection function, and a communication interface setting function.

The transmission-side interface information reception function executes processing for receiving information on a communication interface that can be used by the transmission-side electronic device.
The common interface detection function compares a communication interface that can be used by the electronic device on the transmission side with a communication interface that can be used by the own device, and executes processing for detecting a communication interface common to both devices.

  The communication interface setting function executes a process of setting one of the communication interfaces common to both machines as a communication interface for transfer data and notifying the transmission-side electronic device.

(B) Solution 2
Further, the inventor proposes to mount a communication interface mutual setting device having the following processing functions on the electronic device side that transmits the transfer data. The processing functions here are a receiving interface information receiving function, a common interface detecting function, and a communication interface setting function.

The reception-side interface information reception function executes processing for receiving information on a communication interface that can be used by the reception-side electronic device.
The common interface detection function compares a communication interface that can be used by the electronic device on the receiving side with a communication interface that can be used by the own device, and executes processing for detecting a communication interface common to both devices.

  The communication interface setting function executes a process of setting one of the communication interfaces common to both machines as a transfer data communication interface and notifying the receiving electronic device.

  By adopting the method proposed by the inventor, it is possible to set a communication interface according to the system status and usage mode.

Hereinafter, an example of the electronic apparatus according to the invention will be described.
In addition, the well-known or well-known technique of the said technical field is applied to the part which is not illustrated or described in particular in this specification.
Moreover, the form example demonstrated below is one form example of invention, Comprising: It is not limited to these.

(A) Printing Device (A-1) Configuration Example of Printing Device FIG. 2 shows a circuit configuration example of the printing device 111 equipped with the function according to the invention. In FIG. 2, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals so that the difference from the conventional example becomes clear.

  The power source of the printing apparatus 111 has a main power source 3 and a sub power source 5. That is, a two-converter system is adopted. Thereby, switching between the normal operation mode (normal state) and the low power consumption mode (standby state) is possible.

  The main power source 3 is a power source that supplies power to each unit of the printing apparatus 111. When the operation state shifts from the normal state to the standby state, the main power supply 3 stops supplying power to each unit. In FIG. 2, a circuit portion to which power is supplied during the normal operation mode is shown in white.

  The sub power source 5 is a power source that supplies power only to a specific circuit portion in the low power consumption mode. That is, when the operation state shifts from the normal state to the standby state, the sub power supply 5 supplies power only to the standby CPU 113 and the return interface. In FIG. 2, the circuit portion that is turned off during the normal operation mode is indicated by shading.

  2 illustrates that the sub power supply 5 stops supplying power to the standby CPU 113 during the normal operation mode. However, the sub power supply 5 also supplies power to the standby CPU 113 during the normal mode. You can continue to supply.

The printing apparatus 111 includes a standby CPU 113 and a normal state main CPU 115 as control circuits. Each CPU includes a RAM and a ROM.
Of these, the standby CPU 113 is preferably composed of a one-chip CPU incorporating a RAM and a ROM.

  The standby CPU 113 is used to start up the main power supply 3 when a return instruction in the standby state is detected. When the main power supply 3 is turned on, the main CPU 115 is activated, and each circuit in the apparatus returns to the normal state.

  The main CPU 115 controls the operation in the system in the normal state. The main CPU 115 provides a return interface setting function. Of course, the standby CPU 113 may realize a setting function for the return interface.

  The operation key 11 is composed of an operator provided on the surface of the casing of the printing apparatus. The key detection circuit 13 detects an operation on the operation key 11 (for example, an on operation or an off operation). Since the operation key 11 is provided, a direct input operation is possible regardless of the host device or the like.

  Of course, the input operation can be executed through the standby CPU 113 even in the low power consumption mode. Instead of the operation key 11 and the key detection circuit 13, a touch panel and a touch panel control circuit can be mounted.

The printing device 111 includes an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface 15, a USB interface 17, a wireless USB interface 19, an IrDA interface 21, an infrared remote control interface 23, and the like as communication interfaces used for communication with external devices.
A Bluetooth interface 25 is installed.

  The Ethernet (registered trademark) interface 15 is a hardware interface capable of transmitting and receiving various data at a transfer rate of 10 Mbps or 100 Mbps with an external device connected to a network.

  The USB interface 17 and the wireless USB interface 19 are hardware interfaces that can transmit and receive various data at a maximum transfer rate of 480 Mbps with an external device connected through a USB cable and a wireless transmission path.

  The IrDA interface 21 is a hardware interface that can transmit and receive optical wireless data to and from an external device connected through infrared rays at a maximum transfer rate of 4 Mbps (when the distance between the devices is within 1 m).

  The infrared remote control interface 23 is a hardware interface that can transmit an optical wireless control command unidirectionally with an external device connected through infrared rays at a transmission rate of up to 1 Kbps (when the distance between the devices is 10 m or more).

   The Bluetooth interface 25 is a hardware interface that can send and receive various data at a maximum transfer rate of 3Mbps (when the distance between devices is within 10m) with an external device connected using 2.45GHz band radio waves. It is.

The above-described transmission speed is a value at the time of filing. Therefore, depending on future technological development, the transfer speed of the communication interface will be different.
Further, the communication interface illustrated in FIG. 2 is an example, and other communication interfaces can be mounted.

  For example, a card reader device (not shown) for reading and writing an external storage medium such as a flash memory may be mounted as a communication interface. In this case, the standby CPU 113 detects the insertion of the external storage medium into the card reader device, and controls the main power supply 3 to start up.

  Further, for example, a drive device (not shown) for reproducing an external storage medium such as a CD-ROM may be mounted as a communication interface. In this case, the standby CPU 113 detects the insertion of the external storage medium into the drive device, and controls the main power supply 3 to start up.

In addition, the printing apparatus 111 is equipped with circuits and devices that are unique to the printing system.
The flash memory 27 is a non-volatile semiconductor memory used for storing firmware.
The SDRAM 29 is a semiconductor memory that constitutes a spooler.

  The SDRAM 29 is used to temporarily hold a plurality of image data received or input from an external device through the various communication interfaces described above. The image data after image processing is sequentially transmitted as print data from the SDRAM 29 to the print head 35 via the print head drive circuit 33.

  The image data in the spooler is held in a cyclic buffer configuration, and the latest image data is overwritten and recorded in the image data area received or input the oldest. In the case of this embodiment, even after the image data is recorded on the printing paper, it is held in the spooler until a predetermined time elapses or until the next input image data is overwritten and recorded.

However, the image data in the spooler is FIFO (First In First)
Out) configuration can also be held. In this case, when exceeding the set capacity when recording the latest image data, the oldest recorded image data is deleted and the latest image data is retained.
By installing the spooler function, the user can save the trouble of re-inputting image data even when the same image is reprinted.

  The print engine 31 is a printing mechanism that cooperates with the print head 35 based on control data provided from the main CPU 115. That is, the print engine 31 executes a process for recording an image on the printing paper through conveyance of the printing paper or the like.

(A-2) Transition to and Recovery from Low Power Consumption Mode Here, processing operations relating to transition to and recovery from the low power consumption mode will be described.

(A) Transition to Low Power Consumption Mode First, the transition operation to the low power consumption mode will be described. The transition process to the low power consumption mode is controlled by the main CPU 115 of the printing apparatus 111.

  The main CPU 115 shifts the operation mode from the normal operation mode to the low power consumption mode when the non-printing state continues for a certain period of time or when the user inputs an instruction. At this time, the main CPU 115 controls the main power supply 3 and stops supplying power to the main CPU 115, the SDRAM 29, the print engine 31, the print head 35, and the like.

At the same time, the main CPU 115 controls the sub power supply 5 to start supplying power to the standby CPU 113, the operation key 11, the key detection circuit 13, and the return interface.
When the power supply switching is completed, the printing apparatus 111 completely shifts to the low power consumption mode.

There are several methods for setting the return interface.
For example, as in the conventional method, there is a method of setting all communication interfaces mounted on the printing apparatus 111 as return interfaces. In the case of FIG. 2, all six communication interfaces are set as return interfaces.

  For example, as in the conventional method, there is a method of supplying power only to the reception system circuit among all the communication interfaces mounted on the printing apparatus 111. In this case, the power consumption in the low power consumption mode can be halved as compared with the case where power is also supplied to the transmission system circuit.

  Further, for example, a method of setting one communication interface set in advance as a return interface is conceivable. In this case, since only one communication interface is supplied with power, a further effect of reducing power consumption can be expected. FIG. 3 shows an example in which only the IrDA interface 21 is set as a return interface.

However, if the return interface is limited to a specific communication interface, there is a possibility that it does not match the change in use environment, change in use mode, or the like.
In view of this, the inventor proposes a mechanism for setting an appropriate return interface in accordance with a change in the use environment of the printing apparatus 111, a user's usage mode, and the like.

For example, a method is proposed in which a communication interface with the lowest power consumption among usable communication interfaces is set as a return interface. In this case, the effect of reducing power consumption can be maximized.
For example, a method for setting a frequently used communication interface as a return interface is proposed.

  As the use frequency here, for example, the use frequency value in the normal operation mode is counted and used for each communication interface. As the usage frequency, for example, the number of receptions of the return signal in the low power consumption mode is counted and used for each communication interface.

  As the usage frequency, for example, a count value for each communication interface of the number of printings and the number of printed sheets executed in the normal operation mode is used. In these cases, the usage mode of the user can be reflected in the setting of the return interface. For this reason, user convenience improves.

  In addition, the return interface can be set based on the spread information of the use region and country. This is because there is a difference in the communication interface that is popular depending on the region and country. For example, the Bluetooth interface is often used in the EU, while the IrDA interface is frequently used in the Far East Asia.

In addition, what is necessary is just to acquire the information regarding a use area etc. manually or using a GPS receiver.
In addition, the user himself / herself may set a return interface. When the user configures a network using a specific communication interface, the printing apparatus 111 can be reliably restored by directly reflecting the information.

(B) Return from Low Power Consumption Mode As described above, in the printing apparatus 111 in the low power consumption mode, only the return interface can communicate with an external device.
When a signal is received from any of the external devices in this state, the standby CPU 113 executes protocol processing corresponding to the return interface.

  When the reception of the return signal is confirmed, the standby CPU 113 executes the main power supply 3 startup process. That is, the supply of power by the main power supply 3 is resumed. The time required for returning to the normal state is about 0.5 to 2 seconds.

Note that the return from the low power consumption mode to the normal state is executed not only when an instruction is input to the external device or the operation key 11, but also when image data or the like is input through the card reader device or the drive device. Is done. In this case, input of image data or the like serves as a return signal.
In any case, as long as no return signal is received or input, the printing apparatus 111 maintains the low power consumption mode.

(A-3) Mutual setting of communication interface (a) Contents of interface information In the printing apparatus 111 that has returned to the normal operation mode, all the installed communication interfaces can be used. In general, a communication interface that has the fastest effective transfer rate is automatically selected from available communication interfaces, and transmission / reception of transfer data is executed for the communication interface.

  Of course, such a setting method is one of selectable methods. However, as described above, communication using the automatically selected communication interface is not always suitable for the usage environment.

  Therefore, the inventor proposes a mechanism in which one electronic device variably sets a communication interface and notifies the other prior to communication of transfer data.

Note that the electronic device for setting the communication interface may be the transmission side or the reception side of the transfer data.
For example, when the transmission-side electronic device executes the communication interface mutual setting process, the transmission-side electronic device detects a communication interface common to both devices, and sets one of them as the communication interface.

  On the other hand, when the receiving-side electronic device executes the communication interface mutual setting process, the receiving-side electronic device detects a communication interface common to both devices, and sets one of them as the communication interface.

In this embodiment, a method is adopted in which information that tabulates the types of communication interfaces that can be used and their priorities (including priority items used for ranking) is transmitted as interface information.
Incidentally, the priority is order information of the communication interface for a certain priority item.

  The priority order here is set for each electronic device. Therefore, two electronic devices do not always use the same priority. Of course, it is possible to use the same priority. In addition, when the priority order of both machines does not match, either priority order is used.

  It should be possible to confirm which electronic device priority is used. However, the priority order on the side of executing the setting process may always be prioritized. On the contrary, it is possible to always give priority to the communication partner's priority.

  At this time, a plurality of priority items are prepared. If the priority items to be used are different, the order of communication interfaces is generally different. The priority items include “data transfer speed”, “security level”, “error occurrence frequency”, “authentication between both devices”, “information on user usability”, and the like.

  Incidentally, “data transfer rate” includes “a method of ranking communication interfaces in order of increasing theoretical transfer rate” and “a method of ranking communication interfaces in descending order of effective transfer rate”.

  In addition, the “security level” includes “a method for ranking communication interfaces in order of complexity of encryption processing”, “a method for ranking communication interfaces in order of encryption strength”, and “depending on usage conditions”. There is a method of selecting according to the degree of security.

  As the “method for selecting according to the degree of security according to the use status”, for example, there are cases where wireless communication using radio waves that are close to non-directionality is selected or infrared communication having directivity is selected.

  “Error occurrence frequency” includes “a method for ranking communication interfaces in order of complexity of error correction processing” and “a method for ranking communication interfaces in an order in which stable transmission can be performed”.

  By the way, “Authentication between both devices” refers to whether or not the initial setting to allow subsequent data transfer only with the other device that supports the same communication standard as the own device at the first connection is completed. Show. For example, this type of initial setting is performed in a wireless USB interface.

  The “information regarding user usability” refers to information for the user to specify a communication interface different from the communication interface that configures the network by always-on connection, for example, for data transfer.

  For example, when a personal network is built with a Bluetooth interface or when a personal network is built with a wireless USB interface, it is used when the user wants to specify another communication interface with a higher data transfer speed. The

For example, it is used for designating the order in which the user wants to use the wireless communication, infrared communication, or priority connection.
The information transmitted to the other party can include information forcing the use of a specific communication interface (forced use) and information forcing non-use (nonuse information) in addition to the priority.

(B) Communication Interface Setting Hereinafter, a case where the digital camera returns the printing apparatus 111 from the low power consumption mode and subsequently transmits image data (transfer data) through the mutually set communication interface will be described. .

  The communication interface is set by the transmission side or the reception side, and is executed by notifying the other party of the setting result. Therefore, processing functions and processing operations required in each case will be described individually.

(B-1) When the receiving side sets a communication interface First, a description will be given of a case where the printing apparatus 111 that is a receiving side of image data (transfer data) sets a communication interface and notifies a digital camera that is a transmitting side. .

(1) Processing Function of Communication Interface Mutual Setting Device FIG. 4 shows a functional configuration example of the communication interface mutual setting device. This function is realized through a computer program executed by the main CPU or a dedicated circuit device.

The communication interface mutual setting device 121 includes a transmission-side interface information reception unit 123, a common interface detection unit 125, and a communication interface setting unit 127.
The transmission-side interface information receiving unit 123 is a processing device that receives interface information (communication interface type and priority) on the digital camera side.

  The interface information on the digital camera side may be notified as a response to a request from the transmission side interface information receiving unit 123 when the digital camera that requests transmission of transfer data autonomously notifies.

  In the case of this embodiment, description will be made assuming that the printing apparatus 111 on the receiving side does not transmit the interface information of the own device to the digital camera on the transmitting side. However, it does not prevent both machines from exchanging interface information with each other.

  The common interface detection unit 125 is a processing device that compares a communication interface that can be used with a digital camera with a communication interface that can be used with the own device, and detects a communication interface common to both devices. Note that the communication interfaces that can be used in each machine are stored in the storage area installed in each machine.

  The communication interface setting unit 127 is a processing device that sets one of the communication interfaces common to both devices as a communication interface for transfer data and notifies the digital camera on the transmission side of the communication interface.

  Note that the priority order used for setting the communication interface may be only the priority order on the transmission side or the priority order on the reception side. In the following embodiment, a method of first comparing both priorities is adopted so that both priorities coincide.

(2) Case where the priorities of both machines coincide Here, the processing operation until transmission / reception of transfer data is started will be described in the case where the priorities of both machines coincide. For reference, the description starts from the time when the printing apparatus 111 returns from the low power consumption mode.

  As shown in FIG. 5, a return signal is transmitted from the digital camera 131 to the printing apparatus 111 by a user operation for requesting image printing. In FIG. 5, both the digital camera 131 and the printing apparatus 111 are equipped with a common communication interface. There are three communication interfaces, a wireless LAN interface, a wireless USB interface, and an IrDA interface.

  FIG. 5 shows that the communication interface used for transmission / reception of the return signal is a wireless LAN interface. Here, it is assumed that the wireless LAN interface is set based on the usage frequency information.

  In the printing apparatus 111, the main power supply 3 is activated by the standby CPU 113 that has detected reception of the return signal. As a result, data communication with an external device using various types of installed communication interfaces is possible.

  At this point, the digital camera 131 prints interface information in which information about the type of communication interface (that is, type information) provided in the digital camera 131 and information about the priority order of communication interfaces (that is, priority) are tabulated. 111.

As shown in FIG. 6, the transmission of the interface information is performed using the same wireless LAN interface as that when the return signal is transmitted.
FIG. 7 shows an example of the structure of interface information. As shown in FIG. 7, the same priority is assigned to each communication interface installed in the digital camera 131 and the printing apparatus 111.

  The priority item for determining the priority order of each device is set to “effective transfer rate” in “data transfer rate”. Accordingly, priority is given to the order of the wireless USB interface, the IrDA interface, and the wireless LAN interface.

  The printing apparatus 111 that has received the interface information of the digital camera 131 detects a communication interface that both machines have in common as compared with the interface information of the own machine. Next, the printing apparatus 111 compares communication interfaces with higher priorities and determines a data transmission / reception interface.

  In the case of this embodiment, since the priority order of both machines is the same, the main CPU 115 determines the wireless USB interface as the communication interface. The determined communication interface is notified to the digital camera 131 as “interface determination information”. As shown in FIG. 8, this notification is also executed using the wireless LAN interface.

Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 9, transmission / reception of image data (transfer data) using the wireless USB interface is executed between the digital camera 131 and the printing apparatus 111.
Even after communication is started using the communication interface set in this way, an error may occur in the wireless USB interface, or the effective transfer rate may not increase due to communication congestion. In such a case, it is desirable to transmit and receive image data using another communication interface.

  Also, for example, in the case where the UWB wireless system Bluetooth interface is selected as the return signal transmission / reception interface, the wireless USB interface using the same UWB wireless system is used as the communication interface for image data. It can happen to be set.

  Since the setting of the communication interface for image data (transfer data) is executed based on the interface information, such a situation may occur. When this setting is enabled, use of the Bluetooth interface set as the standard environment is interrupted.

  However, the use of the communication interface set as the standard environment cannot be interrupted. Therefore, in such a case, it is necessary to perform data transfer using another communication interface instead of the wireless USB interface with the highest priority.

  In such a case, the method proposed by the inventor is effective. That is, even if the wireless USB interface with the highest priority is selected as the communication interface for transfer data, if the above-mentioned circumstances occur, the communication interface with the second highest priority among the communication interfaces common to both machines Can be selected automatically.

  FIG. 10 shows the communication operation in this case. In the case of FIG. 10, the printing apparatus 111 automatically sets the IrDA interface as the image data communication interface. Also in this case, the printing apparatus 111 unilaterally notifies the determination result as “interface determination information” to the digital camera 131.

As a result, transmission / reception of image data is executed using a communication interface having the second highest priority among the priority information held by both devices.
The feature here is that the setting process can be executed by using the interface information exchanged at the first time without executing the negotiation process again between the two machines.

Since the negotiation process is not repeated, a large amount of communication traffic can be assigned to the transfer of image data, and the effective transfer rate can be increased.
In addition, since the negotiation process is not repeated, the time until the start of image data transmission / reception can be shortened.

(3) When the priorities of both machines do not match Next, the processing operation until transmission / reception of transfer data is started when the priorities of both machines do not match will be described.
In the case of this embodiment, the priority order of the own machine (that is, the printing apparatus 111) is applied, and the communication interface for transfer data is set.

  The processing operation in this case will be described with reference to FIG. In the case of FIG. 11, the printing apparatus 111 and the digital camera 131 have different priority items as criteria for determining the priority order. That is, the printing apparatus 111 sets the priority order using the data transfer speed as a priority item, whereas the digital camera 131 sets the priority order using the security level as a priority item.

  For this reason, the first and second priorities specified by each machine are different. In this case, the printing apparatus 111 gives priority to its own priority. That is, the wireless USB interface with the highest priority is determined as a communication interface for transmitting and receiving image data, and this is notified to the digital camera 131 as “interface determination information”.

FIG. 12 shows this state. As shown in FIG. 12, even when the interface information of both machines does not match, one communication interface used for transmission / reception of image data can be determined.
In this case as well, an error may occur after transmission starts and the effective transfer rate may decrease.

Also, the same communication method may be used between different communication interfaces.
Also in this case, the printing apparatus 111 uses the priority order determined by the own apparatus, and selects the communication interface having the second highest order among the communication interfaces that both apparatuses have in common (in the case of FIG. 11, the IrDA interface). This selection result is also notified to the digital camera 131 as “interface determination information”. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 13, communication of image data is started using the IrDA interface.

(B-2) When the transmission side sets the communication interface Next, the digital camera 131 which is the transmission side of image data (transfer data) sets the communication interface and notifies the printing apparatus 111 which is the reception side. explain.

(1) Processing Function of Communication Interface Mutual Setting Device FIG. 14 shows a functional configuration example of the communication interface mutual setting device. This function is realized through a computer program executed by the main CPU or a dedicated circuit device.

The communication interface mutual setting device 141 includes a receiving side interface information receiving unit 143, a common interface detecting unit 145, and a communication interface setting unit 147.
The receiving-side interface information receiving unit 143 is a processing device that receives interface information (communication interface type and priority) of the printing apparatus 111.

  Note that the interface information of the printing apparatus 111 may be notified by the printing apparatus 111 autonomously, or may be notified as a response to the request from the receiving-side interface information receiving unit 143.

  In the case of this embodiment, the digital camera 131 does not need to transmit its own interface information to the printing apparatus 111, but this does not prevent mutual exchange of interface information.

  The common interface detection unit 145 is a processing device that compares a communication interface that can be used by the printing apparatus 111 with a communication interface that can be used by the own apparatus, and detects a communication interface that is common to both apparatuses. Note that the communication interfaces that can be used in each machine are stored in the storage area installed in each machine.

  The communication interface setting unit 147 is a processing device that sets one of the communication interfaces common to both machines as a communication interface for transfer data and notifies the receiving printing apparatus 111 of the communication interface.

  Note that as the priority order used for setting the communication interface, only the priority order on the reception side may be used, or only the priority order on the transmission side may be used. In the following embodiment, a method of first comparing both priorities is adopted so that both priorities coincide.

(2) Case where the priorities of both machines coincide Here, the processing operation until transmission / reception of transfer data is started will be described in the case where the priorities of both machines coincide. For reference, the description starts from the time when the printing apparatus 111 returns from the low power consumption mode.

  Also in this case, a return signal is transmitted from the digital camera 131 to the printing apparatus 111 as shown in FIG. Also in the case of FIG. 15, both the digital camera 131 and the printing apparatus 111 are equipped with a common communication interface. There are three communication interfaces, a wireless LAN interface, a wireless USB interface, and an IrDA interface.

  FIG. 15 shows an example in which the communication interface used for transmission / reception of the return signal is a wireless LAN interface. Here, it is assumed that the wireless LAN interface is set based on the usage frequency information.

  In the printing apparatus 111, the main power supply 3 is activated by the standby CPU 113 that has detected reception of the return signal. As a result, data communication with an external device using various types of installed communication interfaces is possible.

  At this point, the digital camera 131 that requests transmission of the image data tabulates information on the type of communication interface provided in its own device (ie, type information) and information on the priority order of the communication interface (ie, priority) The interface information thus transmitted is transmitted to the printing apparatus 111.

  On the other hand, the printing apparatus 111 reassigns the priority of the received interface information according to the convenience of its own device, and transmits this to the digital camera 131 as its own interface information. FIG. 16 shows an interface image exchange image.

  Of course, even if the interface information is not received from the digital camera 131, a mechanism for transmitting the interface information prepared in the own device according to the request may be adopted.

As shown in FIG. 16, the transmission of the interface information is performed using the same wireless LAN interface as that at the time of transmission of the return signal.
FIG. 17 shows an example of the structure of interface information. As shown in FIG. 17, the same priority is assigned to each communication interface installed in the digital camera 131 and the printing apparatus 111.

  The priority item for determining the priority order of each device is set to “effective transfer rate” in “data transfer rate”. Accordingly, priority is given to the order of the wireless USB interface, the IrDA interface, and the wireless LAN interface.

  The digital camera 131 that has received the interface information of the printing apparatus 111 detects a communication interface that both machines have in common as compared with the interface information of the own machine. Next, the digital camera 131 compares communication interfaces with higher priorities and determines a data transmission / reception interface.

  In the case of this embodiment, since the priority information of both machines is the same, the wireless USB interface is determined. The determined communication interface is notified to the printing apparatus 111 as “interface determination information”. As shown in FIG. 18, this notification is also executed using the wireless LAN interface.

Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 19, transmission / reception of image data (transfer data) using the wireless USB interface is executed between the digital camera 131 and the printing apparatus 111.
Even after the communication is started using the communication interface set in this way, an error may occur in the wireless USB interface, or the communication may be congested and the effective transfer rate may not be increased.

  In addition, for example, in the case where the UWB wireless system Bluetooth interface is selected for transmission / reception of the return signal, the wireless USB using the same UWB wireless system as a communication interface used for transmission / reception of image data is an example that does not match the drawing. It can happen that the interface is configured.

In such a case, the digital camera 131 changes the communication setting to use another communication interface with the second highest priority, and notifies the printing apparatus 111 of the information.
FIG. 20 shows the communication operation in this case.

  In the case of FIG. 20, the digital camera 131 automatically sets an IrDA interface as an image data communication interface. Also in this case, the digital camera 131 unilaterally notifies the printing apparatus 111 of the determination result as “interface determination information”.

The feature here is that the setting process can be executed by using the interface information exchanged at the first time without executing the negotiation process again between the two machines.
Since the negotiation process is not repeated, a large amount of communication traffic can be assigned to the transfer of image data, and the effective transfer rate can be increased.
In addition, since the negotiation process is not repeated, the time until the start of image data transmission / reception can be shortened.
(3) When the priorities of both machines do not match Next, the processing operation until transmission / reception of transfer data is started when the priorities of both machines do not match will be described.
In the case of this embodiment, the priority order of the own device (that is, the digital camera 131) is applied, and the setting process of the communication interface for transfer data is executed.

  The processing operation in this case will be described with reference to FIG. In the case of FIG. 21, the printing apparatus 111 and the digital camera 131 have different priority items as criteria for determining the priority order. For example, in the printing apparatus 111, the priority order is set with the data transfer speed as a priority item, whereas in the digital camera 131, the priority order is set with the security level as a priority item.

  For this reason, the first and second priorities specified by each machine are different. In this case, the digital camera 131 gives priority to its own priority. That is, the IrDA interface with the highest priority is determined as a communication interface for transmitting and receiving image data, and this is notified to the printing apparatus 111 as “interface determination information”.

Thus, even when the interface information of both does not match, one communication interface used for transmission / reception of image data can be determined.
FIG. 22 shows this state. As shown in FIG. 22, even when the interface information of both machines does not match, one communication interface used for transmission / reception of image data can be determined.

In this case as well, an error may occur after transmission starts and the effective transfer rate may decrease. Also, the same communication method may be used between different communication interfaces.
Also in this case, the digital camera 131 uses the priority order determined by the own device, and selects the communication interface having the second highest order among the communication interfaces provided in common in both devices (in the case of FIG. 21, a wireless USB interface).

  This selection result is also notified to the printing apparatus 111 as “interface determination information”. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 23, communication of image data is started using the wireless USB interface.

(B-3) Setting by User Here, the case where the communication interface for image data (transfer data) is executed based on the setting of the user will be described.

In the case of this embodiment, the priority order used for setting the communication interface is set by the user himself / herself based on his / her convenience.
For example, the system shown in FIG. 24 will be described as an example.

  In the case of FIG. 24, the printing apparatus 111, the scanner 151, and the computer 153 form a network via a wireless LAN. On the other hand, the printing apparatus 111 and the scanner 151 can perform direct communication using a wireless USB interface.

  In such a case, the wireless LAN is selected as the communication interface in the low power consumption mode. Since the wireless LAN is a communication interface common to all devices, it is suitable for notifying a return signal and interface information directly or indirectly from any device.

  On the other hand, in terms of data transfer speed, the wireless USB interface is faster than the wireless LAN interface. Therefore, in the case of a user who gives priority to the printing time, the priority order of the wireless USB interface can be set higher than the priority order of the wireless LAN interface as an interface for communication of image data (transfer data).

  In this case, the printing apparatus 111 and the scanner 151 execute negotiation for data transfer through the wireless USB interface before starting transmission / reception of image data. Of course, since the priority can be arbitrarily set by the user, it can be set so that image data (transfer data) is transmitted and received through the wireless LAN.

  The same applies to the system example shown in FIG. In the case of FIG. 25, the printing apparatus 111, the digital camera 131, the scanner 151, the computer 153, the mobile phone 155, and the portable music player 157 constitute a network via the Bluetooth interface. On the other hand, the printing apparatus 111 and the digital camera 131 can directly communicate with each other using a wireless USB interface.

  In this case, the Bluetooth interface is selected as the communication interface in the low power consumption mode. Since the Bluetooth interface is a communication interface common to all devices, it is suitable for notifying a return signal and interface information directly or indirectly from any device.

On the other hand, from the viewpoint of data transfer speed, the wireless USB interface is
Faster than the Bluetooth interface. Therefore, in the case of a user who gives priority to the printing time, the priority order of the wireless USB interface can be set higher than the priority order of the Bluetooth interface as a communication interface used for transmission / reception of image data (transfer data).

  In this case, the printing apparatus 111 and the digital camera 131 execute a negotiation to perform data transfer through the wireless USB interface before starting transmission / reception of image data. Of course, since the priority order is arbitrarily set by the user, it can be set so that image data (transfer data) is transmitted and received via Bluetooth.

  Note that unlike the examples of FIGS. 24 and 25, in recent electronic devices equipped with a large number of communication interfaces, the user's usability can be improved because the user can arbitrarily set the priority order.

(A-4) Mutual setting of communication interfaces via two or more types of communication interfaces In the above description, the communication interface set by the transmission destination electronic device for receiving the return signal and interface information is the transmission source. The case where the electronic device can be used has been described.

However, as shown in FIG. 26, a case where the communication interface set by the transmission destination electronic device for receiving the return signal and interface information cannot be used in the transmission source electronic device is also assumed.
For example, in the case of FIG. 26, the printing apparatus 111 sets a USB interface for receiving a return signal and interface information.

  However, the digital camera 131 and the printing apparatus 111 are not connected via the USB interface. In such a case, it is necessary to have a third device (here, a computer 153) that is connected to the printing apparatus 111 via the USB interface and can also communicate with the digital camera 131.

  Of course, there is no guarantee that such an electronic device always exists. However, a description will be given here assuming that there is a computer 153 that can communicate with both the transmission source device and the transmission destination device through different communication interfaces.

  In the case of FIG. 26, the return signal of the digital camera 131 is notified to the computer 153 via the wireless USB interface. The computer 153 transfers this return signal to the printing apparatus 111 via the USB interface.

Through the relay process of the computer 153, the printing apparatus 111 returns from the low power consumption mode and activates the IrDA interface.
Further, the interface information is notified from the digital camera 131 to the printing apparatus 111 through the same route.

  The printing apparatus 111 compares the received interface information with its own interface information, and selects the IrDA interface as a data transfer communication interface common to both machines. Thereafter, the printing apparatus 111 notifies the digital camera 131 via the computer 153 that the IrDA interface is used as a data transfer communication interface.

  Thereafter, when the setting of the communication interface in the digital camera 131 is completed, direct communication of image data (transfer data) is started between the digital camera 131 and the printing apparatus 111.

(C) Other Embodiments (C-1) Transmission of Interface Information In the system example described above, the case where the transmission-side electronic device and the reception-side electronic device can perform bidirectional communication has been described. In this case, the transmitting side and the receiving side can exchange interface information. Therefore, a communication interface for transfer data can be set on both the transmission side and the reception side.

  However, if the transmission-side electronic device can use only a communication interface capable of only one-way communication, the reception-side electronic device inevitably sets the communication interface designated by the transmission-side electronic device.

  For example, the infrared remote control interface is set as a communication interface for receiving a return signal. Since the infrared remote control interface has low power consumption, it is likely to be selected when priority is given to reducing power consumption.

  In such a case, the printing apparatus 111 that is the receiving side receives the interface information of the digital camera that is the transmitting side, and sets the communication interface for transfer data through comparison with the interface information of its own device.

(C-2) Receiving Device In the above description, the case where the printing device 111 is a transfer data receiving side has been described.
However, the combination of the electronic device on the transmission side and the electronic device on the reception side is arbitrary.

(C-3) Interface Information Transmission Timing In the above description, it is assumed that transmission / reception of image data (transfer data) is started in conjunction with the return processing from the low power consumption mode.

For this reason, the case has been described where interface information is exchanged or transmitted using a communication interface reserved for recovery.
However, the present invention can be widely applied to the case where transmission / reception of transfer data with an already activated electronic device is started.

(C-4) Transfer Data In the above description, the case where image data is transferred has been described.
However, it can be applied when transferring audio data, binary data, and the like.

(C-5) Other hardware interfaces In the above-described embodiments, an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface, a USB interface, a wireless USB interface, an IrDA interface, an infrared remote control interface,
A Bluetooth interface and a wireless LAN interface are illustrated. However, other hardware interfaces can be used. For example, an IEEE 1394 interface can be used.

(C-6) Other Electronic Equipment In the above description, the printing apparatus 111 is exemplified as a general-purpose apparatus whose appearance is used in an office or home, but it can also be applied to a kiosk-type apparatus disposed in a store or the like. it can.
In addition, although digital cameras, scanners, and other electronic devices have been illustrated, the present invention can be used for various other electronic devices.

  For example, the present invention can be widely applied to television receivers, monitor devices, video cameras, AV storage devices, game machines, mobile phones, air conditioners, and other electronic devices.

(C-7) Others Various modifications can be considered for the above-described embodiments within the scope of the gist of the invention. Various modifications and applications created or combined based on the description of the present specification are also conceivable.

It is a figure which illustrates the circuit range to which electric power is supplied during the low power consumption mode (conventional example). It is a figure which illustrates the circuit range to which electric power is supplied during normal operation mode. It is a figure which illustrates the circuit range to which electric power is supplied during the low power consumption mode (form example) It is a figure which shows the function structural example of the communication interface mutual setting apparatus (mounting example in the receiving side). It is a figure which shows the transmission path | route of a return signal. It is a figure which shows the transmission path | route of interface information. It is a figure which shows the structural example of interface information. It is a figure which shows the transmission path | route of interface determination information. It is a figure which shows the transfer path | route of image data. It is a figure which shows the example of a transfer path | route of image data in the case of using a communication interface with 2nd priority. It is a figure which shows the case where the structural example of interface information does not correspond by the transmission side and the receiving side. It is a figure which shows the example of a transfer path | route of image data when a priority order does not correspond. It is a figure which shows the transfer path | route of image data. It is a figure which shows the function structural example of the communication interface mutual setting apparatus (mounting example in the transmission side). It is a figure which shows the transmission path | route of a return signal. It is a figure which shows the transmission path | route of interface information. It is a figure which shows the structural example of interface information. It is a figure which shows the transmission path | route of interface determination information. It is a figure which shows the example of a transfer path | route of image data in the case of using a communication interface with the highest priority. It is a figure which shows the example of a transfer path | route of image data in the case of using a communication interface with 2nd priority. It is a figure which shows the case where the structural example of interface information does not correspond by the transmission side and the receiving side. It is a figure which shows the example of a transfer path | route of image data in the case of using a communication interface with the highest priority. It is a figure which shows the example of a transfer path | route of image data in the case of using a communication interface with 2nd priority. It is a figure which shows the example of transfer in a network system. It is a figure which shows the example of transfer in a network system. It is a figure explaining the notification method of interface information using a relay apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

121 communication interface mutual setting device 123 transmission side interface information reception unit 125 common interface detection unit 127 communication interface setting unit 141 communication interface mutual setting device 143 reception side interface information reception unit 145 common interface detection unit 147 communication interface setting unit

Claims (14)

In the communication interface mutual setting device mounted on the electronic device side that receives the transfer data,
A transmission-side interface information receiving unit that receives information on a communication interface that can be used in the electronic device on the transmission side;
A communication interface that can be used in the electronic device on the transmission side and a communication interface that can be used in the device itself, and a common interface detection unit that detects a communication interface common to both devices;
A communication interface mutual setting device comprising: a communication interface setting unit configured to set one of the communication interfaces common to both devices as a communication interface for transfer data and notify the electronic device on the transmission side. In the communication interface mutual setting device according to claim 1,
The communication interface setting unit includes:
A communication interface mutual setting device, characterized in that the communication interface is set based on priority order information possessed by the device itself. In the communication interface mutual setting device according to claim 1,
The communication interface setting unit includes:
A communication interface mutual setting device, wherein the communication interface is set based on priority order information received from a transmission-side electronic device. In the communication interface mutual setting device according to claim 1,
The communication interface setting unit includes:
The communication interface mutual setting device, wherein the communication interface is set based on an order designated and input by a user. In the communication interface mutual setting device mounted on the electronic device side that transmits the transfer data,
A receiving-side interface information receiving unit that receives information on a communication interface that can be used by the receiving-side electronic device;
A communication interface that can be used on the receiving-side electronic device and a communication interface that can be used on the device itself, and a common interface detection unit that detects a communication interface common to both devices;
A communication interface mutual setting device, comprising: a communication interface setting unit configured to set one of communication interfaces common to both devices as a communication interface for transfer data and to notify a reception-side electronic device. In the communication interface mutual setting device according to claim 5,
The communication interface setting unit includes:
A communication interface mutual setting device, characterized in that the communication interface is set based on priority order information possessed by the device itself. In the communication interface mutual setting device according to claim 5,
The communication interface setting unit includes:
A communication interface mutual setting device, wherein the communication interface is set based on priority order information received from a receiving-side electronic device. In the communication interface mutual setting device according to claim 5,
The communication interface setting unit includes:
The communication interface mutual setting device, wherein the communication interface is set based on an order designated and input by a user. An electronic device that functions as a transfer data receiver after communication starts,
A transmission-side interface information receiving unit that receives information on a communication interface that can be used in the electronic device on the transmission side;
A communication interface that can be used in the electronic device on the transmission side and a communication interface that can be used in the device itself, and a common interface detection unit that detects a communication interface common to both devices;
An electronic device comprising: a communication interface setting unit configured to set one of communication interfaces common to both devices as a communication interface for transfer data and notify the electronic device on the transmission side. An electronic device that functions as the transmission side of the transfer data after the start of communication,
A receiving-side interface information receiving unit that receives information on a communication interface that can be used by the receiving-side electronic device;
A communication interface that can be used on the receiving-side electronic device and a communication interface that can be used on the device itself, and a common interface detection unit that detects a communication interface common to both devices;
An electronic device, comprising: a communication interface setting unit configured to set one of communication interfaces common to both devices as a communication interface for transfer data and to notify a reception-side electronic device. In the communication interface mutual setting method of the electronic device that functions as the transfer data receiving side after the start of communication,
A process of receiving information of a communication interface that can be used by the electronic device on the transmission side;
A process of comparing the communication interface that can be used with the electronic device on the sending side with the communication interface that can be used with the own device, and detecting a communication interface common to both devices,
A communication interface mutual setting method, comprising: setting one of the communication interfaces common to both devices as a communication interface for transfer data and notifying the electronic device on the transmission side. In the communication interface mutual setting method of the electronic device functioning as the transmission side of the transfer data after the start of communication,
A process of receiving information of a communication interface that can be used by the receiving electronic device;
A process of comparing a communication interface that can be used on the receiving-side electronic device with a communication interface that can be used on its own device, and detecting a communication interface common to both devices,
A communication interface mutual setting method, comprising: setting one of the communication interfaces common to both devices as a communication interface for transfer data and notifying the receiving electronic device. After starting communication, the computer installed in the electronic device that functions as the transfer data receiver,
A process of receiving information of a communication interface that can be used by the electronic device on the transmission side;
A process of comparing the communication interface that can be used with the electronic device on the sending side with the communication interface that can be used with the own device, and detecting a communication interface common to both devices,
A computer program for executing a process of setting one of communication interfaces common to both machines as a communication interface for transfer data and notifying a transmission-side electronic device. After the start of communication, the computer installed in the electronic device that functions as the transmission data transmission side,
A process of receiving information of a communication interface that can be used by the receiving electronic device;
A process of comparing a communication interface that can be used on the receiving-side electronic device with a communication interface that can be used on its own device, and detecting a communication interface common to both devices,
A computer program for executing a process of setting one of communication interfaces common to both devices as a communication interface for transfer data and notifying an electronic device on a receiving side.

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