Wireless communication device and wireless communication method

A wireless communication device includes: a control unit configured to control generation of a participation request frame relating to a request for participation in a group, which includes at least one wireless communication device, in which role information specifying a communication role in communication with an outside of the group is stored on a basis of group information regarding the group; and a transmission unit configured to transmit the participation request frame. A wireless communication device including: a transmission unit configured to transmit a report frame in which group information regarding a group including at least one wireless communication device is stored; and a reception unit configured to receive a participation request frame relating to a request for participation in the group in which role information specifying a communication role in communication with an outside of the group is stored.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a National Stage Application based on PCT/JP2017/016457, filed 26 Apr. 2017, and claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-123624 on 22 Jun. 2016, the entire contents of which being incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a wireless communication device and a wireless communication method.

BACKGROUND ART

As communication technologies have progressed in recent years, communication methods in various forms have been researched and developed. Specifically, there are technologies for wireless communication devices to perform wireless communication via another wireless communication device. Patent Literature 1, for example, discloses a technology in which a wireless communication device includes a wireless communication unit and the wireless communication unit performs wireless communication by controlling a wireless frequency module included in another wireless communication device via a wireless communication link between the wireless communication unit and the other wireless communication device.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

In the technology disclosed in Patent Literature 1, however, costs are incurred with respect to the wireless communication devices from various viewpoints. For example, all functions including a transmission function, a reception function, and a function of wireless communication link between wireless communication devices are necessary for a plurality of disclosed wireless communication devices. Thus, costs are incurred to manufacture the wireless communication devices. In addition, when all the reception function and the function of a wireless communication link between wireless communication devices are caused to work, costs are incurred from the viewpoint of power consumption or calculation resources. In particular, since the capacities of batteries of the wireless communication devices are generally limited, it is desirable to reduce the power consumed as much as possible.

Therefore, the present disclosure proposes a novel and improved mechanism that can reduce costs incurred for wireless communication devices while maintaining wireless communication functions.

Solution to Problem

According to the present disclosure, there is provided a wireless communication device including: a control unit configured to control generation of a participation request frame relating to a request for participation in a group, which includes at least one wireless communication device, in which role information specifying a communication role in communication with an outside of the group is stored on a basis of group information regarding the group; and a transmission unit configured to transmit the participation request frame.

In addition, according to the present disclosure, there is provided a wireless communication device including: a transmission unit configured to transmit a report frame in which group information regarding a group including at least one wireless communication device is stored; and a reception unit configured to receive a participation request frame relating to a request for participation in the group in which role information specifying a communication role in communication with an outside of the group is stored.

In addition, according to the present disclosure, there is provided a wireless communication method using a processor, the wireless communication method including: generating a first frame in which role information specifying a communication role in communication with an outside of a group including at least one wireless communication device set for the group is stored; and transmitting the first frame.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to the present disclosure described above, a mechanism that can reduce costs incurred for wireless communication devices while maintaining wireless communication functions is provided. Note that the effects described above are not necessarily limitative. With or in the place of the above effects, there may be achieved any one of the effects described in this specification or other effects that may be grasped from this specification.

MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Further, in this specification and the drawings, there are cases in which a plurality of elements having substantially the same function are distinguished by adding different numbers to the end of the same reference numeral. For example, a plurality of elements having substantially the same function are distinguished as necessary like a communication device100A and a communication device100B. However, in a case where it is unnecessary to distinguish elements having substantially the same function, only the same reference numeral is added. For example, in a case where it is unnecessary to particularly distinguish the communication device100A and the communication device100B, they are simply referred to as “communication devices100.”

Note that description will be provided in the following order.

1. Embodiment of present disclosure

1.1. Configuration of system

1.2. Configuration of device

1.3. Function of device

1.4. Process of device

1.5. Summary of embodiment of present disclosure

2. Modified examples

3. Application examples

1. EMBODIMENT OF PRESENT DISCLOSURE

Communication devices100and a communication system having the communication devices100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

1.1. Configuration of System

First, a configuration of the communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS. 1 and 2.FIGS. 1 and 2are diagrams illustrating an example of a physical configuration of the communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The communication system1according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of communication devices100, an access point (which will also be referred to as AP (Access Point) below)20, and an authentication server30as illustrated inFIG. 1.

The communication devices100have communication functions and communicate with the AP20or the authentication server30. For example, the communication devices100A to100F may each include a wireless communication module indicated by a dot inFIG. 1having a communication function of at least one of transmission or reception and communicate with the AP20or the authentication server30using the wireless communication module.

Here, the communication devices100may be devices having various functions. For example, the communication device100A may be a display having a display function, the communication device100B may be a memory having a storage function, the communication devices100C and100D may be a keyboard and a mouse having input functions, the communication device100E may be a speaker having a sound output function, and the communication device100F may be a smartphone having a function of executing an advanced calculation process.

In addition, a plurality of communication devices100form a group called an object and perform communication in units of a group. For example, one object10may be formed by physically connecting the communication devices100A to100E and logically connecting the communication device100F to the communication devices100A to100E as illustrated inFIG. 2.

In addition, each of the communication devices100forming the object10has a communication role, and thus communication from the object10with an external communication device is performed in accordance with the communication role. For example, the communication devices100A and100E have a communication role called reception, and thus receive signals from the AP20or the authentication server30. In addition, the communication devices100C and100D have a communication role called transmission and thus transmit signals to the AP20or the authentication server30. Note that the communication devices100B and100F has both of the communication roles of transmission and reception. In addition, the communication role called transmission or reception corresponds to an output or an input of an application (which will also be referred to as an object application below) that operates commonly for the object10. Thus, the communication devices100A and100E can also be called output devices for the object application, and the communication devices100C and100D can also be called input devices for the object application. The communication devices100A and100E perform, for example, image display and sound output on the basis of image information, video information, or sound information received via the AP20.

In addition, the communication devices100may communicate with other communication devices100included in the object10. For example, the communication device100F transmits information regarding an image obtained by capturing of a built-in image sensor to the communication device100A. The communication device100A that has received the image information displays an image on the basis of the image information.

The AP20is connected to an external network and allows the communication devices100to communicate with the external network. For example, the AP20is connected to the Internet and provides communication between the communication devices100and a communication device on the Internet or communication with a communication device connected via the Internet. Note that communication with a base station in mobile telephone communication (cellular communication) may be performed, on behalf of the AP20.

The authentication server30provides an authentication service to the communication devices100. For example, the authentication server30performs authentication of the communication devices100desiring provision of a service for a service that requires authentication for provision. Note that authentication may be performed using communication via the Internet, and in this case, the authentication server30performs communication for authentication via the AP20. Note that the authentication server30may not be provided in the communication system1.

1.2. Configuration of Device

Next, a configuration of a communication device100for realizing the above-described communication system1will be described. A functional configuration of the communication device100will be described with reference toFIG. 3.FIG. 3is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic functional configuration of the communication device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The communication device100includes a data processing unit110, a control unit120, a wireless communication unit130, and a wired communication unit140as illustrated inFIG. 3. The communication device100uses, for example, a wireless local area network (LAN) as wireless communication. In addition, the communication device100uses, for example, communication of the method of Ethernet (registered trademark) or a Universal Serial Bus (USB) for wired communication.

The data processing unit110includes an interface unit111, a transmission buffer112, a transmission frame constructing unit113, a reception frame analyzing unit114, and a reception buffer115as illustrated inFIG. 3.

The interface unit111is an interface connected to another functional configuration included in the communication device100. Specifically, the interface unit111receives data desired to be transferred from the other functional configuration, for example, an object application or a user interface, provides received data to the object application or the user interface, or the like.

The transmission buffer112stores data to be transmitted. Specifically, the transmission buffer112stores data obtained by the interface unit111.

The transmission frame constructing unit113generates a frame to be transmitted. Specifically, the transmission frame constructing unit113generates a frame on the basis of data stored in the transmission buffer112or control information set by the control unit120. For example, the transmission frame constructing unit113generates a frame (packet) from data acquired from the transmission buffer112, and performs a process of adding a MAC header for medium access control (MAC) and an error detection code to the generated frame and the like.

The reception frame analyzing unit114analyzes a received frame. Specifically, the reception frame analyzing unit114determines a destination of a frame received by the wireless communication unit130and acquires data or control information included in the frame. For example, the reception frame analyzing unit114acquires data and the like included in the received frame by performing analysis of the MAC header, detection and correction of a code error, a reordering process, and the like on the received frame.

The reception buffer115stores received data. Specifically, the reception buffer115stores data acquired by the reception frame analyzing unit114.

The control unit120operates as part of a processing unit, a transmission unit, and a reception unit, and includes an operation control unit121and a signal control unit122as illustrated inFIG. 3.

The operation control unit121controls an operation of the data processing unit110. Specifically, the operation control unit121controls the occurrence of communication. For example, if a communication connection request occurs, the operation control unit121causes the data processing unit110to generate frames related to a connection process or an authentication processing such as an association process or an authentication process.

Further, the operation control unit121controls generation of frames on the basis of a storage state of data in the transmission buffer112, an analysis result for a reception frame, or the like. For example, in a case in which data is stored in the transmission buffer112, the operation control unit121instructs the transmission frame constructing unit113to generate a data frame in which the data is stored. Further, in a case in which reception of a frame is confirmed by the reception frame analyzing unit114, the operation control unit121instructs the transmission frame constructing unit113to generate an acknowledgment frame which is a response to a received frame.

The signal control unit122controls an operation of the wireless communication unit130. Specifically, the signal control unit122controls a transmission/reception process of the wireless communication unit130. For example, the signal control unit122causes the wireless communication unit130to set a parameter for transmission and reception on the basis of an instruction from the operation control unit121.

In addition, the signal control unit122controls a vacant channel detection process such as the above-described CSMA/CA. For example, the signal control unit122decides starting of transmission or waiting for transmission of a signal on the basis of a result of a reception process of the wireless communication unit130.

The wireless communication unit130operates as part of the transmission unit and the reception unit, and includes a transmission processing unit131, a reception processing unit132and an antenna control unit133as illustrated inFIG. 3.

The transmission processing unit131performs a transmission process of frames provided from the transmission frame constructing unit113. Specifically, the transmission processing unit131generates a signal to be transmitted on the basis of a frame provided from the transmission frame constructing unit113and parameters set by an instruction from the signal control unit122. For example, the transmission processing unit131generates a symbol stream by performing encoding, interleaving, and modulation on the frame provided from the data processing unit110in accordance with a coding and modulation method instructed by the control unit120. Further, the transmission processing unit131converts the signal related to the symbol stream obtained by the process at the previous stage into an analog signal, and performs amplification, filtering, and frequency up-conversion on the resulting signal.

The reception processing unit132performs a frame reception process on the basis of the signal provided from the antenna control unit133. For example, the reception processing unit132acquires a symbol stream by performing a process opposite to the signal transmission, for example, frequency down-conversion, digital signal conversion, and the like on a signal obtained from an antenna. Further, the reception processing unit132acquires a frame by performing demodulation, decoding, and the like on the symbol stream obtained by the process at the previous stage and provides the acquired frame to the data processing unit110or the control unit120.

The antenna control unit133controls transmission and reception of signals via at least one antenna. Specifically, the antenna control unit133transmits the signal generated by the transmission processing unit131via the antenna and provides the signal received via the antenna to the reception processing unit132.

The wired communication unit140communicates with an external communication device using a wired communication method. Specifically, the wired communication unit140converts data provided from the data processing unit110into a signal of the wired communication method and transmits the signal. In addition, the wired communication unit140acquires data by decoding a received signal. Then, the acquired data is provided to a communication upper layer via the data processing unit110.

1.3. Function of Device

Next, functions of the communication devices100will be described. As main functions of the communication devices100, there are an object formation function, a communication function based on a communication role, an object maintenance function, and a docking function. Each of the functions will be described separately below. Note that a communication device100that operates as a manager of an object will also be referred to as an owner device, and the communication devices100other than the manager of the object will also be referred to as member devices below.

The communication devices100form an object using communication. Specifically, the owner device initializes the framework of the object, and the member devices participate in the set object. At the time of the participation in the object, the communication role of each of the communication devices100is registered and shared. The object formation function will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 4.FIG. 4is a frame sequence for describing the object formation function of the communication devices100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that, in the example ofFIG. 4, the AP20is included in the constituent elements of an object as a communication device100, and the AP20operates as the owner device.

First, the owner device transmits a frame to report the presence of the framework of the object (which will also be referred to as an object report frame below). For example, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to periodically generate a beacon in which information regarding the object (which will also be referred to as object information below) is stored as an object report frame. The object information includes an object ID (identifier) by which the object is identified. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated beacon. Note that the object ID may be a framework identified by a Basic Service Set ID (BSSID).

A member device that has received the object report frame transmits a frame relating to a participation request to the object (which will also be referred to as a participation request frame below) in which information for specifying a communication role with respect to the object (which will also be referred to as role information below) is stored to the owner device. For example, the control unit120determines a communication role of the member device itself with respect to the object relating to the object ID stored in the beacon, and causes the data processing unit110to generate an association request frame as a participation request frame in which the role information relating to the determined communication role is stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated association request frame.

In a case in which the owner device that has received the participation request frame permits participation, the owner device registers the member device that is the transmission source of the participation request frame with the communication role with respect to the object. Then, the owner device transmits a participation response frame in which role information of a member device whose participation has already been completed is stored to the member device as a response to the participation request frame. For example, the control unit120determines whether to permit participation of the member device that is the transmission source of the received association request frame to the object. In a case in which it is determined to permit participation, the control unit120registers the role information stored in the association request frame for the object in which the device is participating. In addition, the control unit120acquires role information of another member device that has already been registered for the object in which the device is participating. Then, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate an association grant frame indicating participation permission in which the acquired role information is stored as a participation response frame. The wireless communication unit130transmits the generated association grant frame.

The member device that has received the participation response frame registers the communication role with respect to the object relating to the participation request. For example, upon receiving the association grant frame, the control unit120registers the communication role of the own device for the object in which the device is participating and registers the communication role of the other member device included in the association grant frame.

Then, after the frame exchange relating to authentication is performed, the owner device transmits a frame to report participation in the object (which will also be referred to as a participation report frame below) to the member devices that have already completed participation in the object. For example, after the exchange of the association request frame and the association grant frame (which will also be referred to as an association process below), an exchange of an authentication request frame and an authentication register frame (which will also be referred to as an authentication process below) is performed. Then, after the authentication process, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate a report frame as a participation report frame in which the role information of a communication device100that has participated in the object with its communication role additionally registered (which will also be referred to as registered role information) is stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated report frame.

The member device that has received the report frame registers the registered role information. For example, the control unit120updates the role information for the object in which the member device has participated on the basis of the registered role information stored in the received report frame.

Note that, although the example in which the association request frame is a participation request frame and the permission frame is a participation response frame has been described above, the authentication request frame may be a participation request frame and the authentication register frame may be a participation response frame. In addition, although the example in which the participation request frame is transmitted on the basis of the report frame has been described above, the member device may transmit the participation request frame on the basis of an input of a user or an instruction from an application. Furthermore, the owner device having object information may present the object information to the user or the application.

(Communication Function Based on Communication Role)

The communication devices100perform communication on the basis of a communication role registered for the object in which the devices have participated. The communication role is at least one of transmission or reception. Communication based on a communication role will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 5.FIG. 5is a frame sequence for describing an example of communication based on communication roles of the communication devices100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The communication devices100whose communication roles are reception receive a frame transmitted from a communication device outside an object. For example, the communication device100A that is a display receives output data1that is image data from the AP20outside the object. In addition, the communication device100A,100B that is a memory, and100E that is a speaker receive output data2that is video data from the AP20outside the object.

Here, the communication role may further be communication of data for specific use or of a specific type. For example, in a case in which the communication role of the communication device100A that is a display is reception of image data and the output data1is image data, the communication device100A completes a reception process. On the other hand, in a case in which the output data1is not image data (e.g., audio data), the communication device100A stops the reception process. In addition, in a case where main image data (e.g., television video) and sub-image data (e.g., television program table) are provided to the object, the communication device100A that is a display receives and displays the main image data, and the communication device100F that is a smartphone receives and displays the sub-image data. In addition, in a case in which audio data for each output direction is provided to the object, a communication device100that is a left speaker receives the audio data for left direction output and outputs sound, and a communication device100that is a right speaker receives the audio data for right direction output and outputs sound.

The communication devices100whose communication roles are transmission transmit a frame to a communication device outside the object. For example, the communication device100D that is a mouse transmits input data1that is mouse operation information to the AP20outside the object. In addition, the communication device100C that is a keyboard transmits input data2that is keyboard input information to the AP20outside the object.

In addition, wireless communication may be used in communication with the communication devices100inside the object. Specifically, a communication device100whose communication role is transmission transmits a frame to another communication device100inside the object. On the other hand, a communication device100whose communication role is reception receives a frame transmitted from another communication device100inside the object. For example, the communication device100D that is a mouse transmits mouse operation information to the communication device100B that is a memory and the communication device100F that is a smartphone. Then, video data or the like stored in the communication device100B is transmitted from the communication device100B to100F on the basis of the mouse operation information. Note that both transmission and reception may be communication roles, like the communication device100B.

A communication device100maintains the formed object. Specifically, the communication device100periodically updates role information with respect to the formed object. For example, the owner device transmits a request frame for maintaining the object (which will also be referred to as a maintenance request frame below) to the member devices participating in the object. The member devices transmit a frame as a response to the maintenance request frame (which will also be referred to as a maintenance response frame below). The maintenance response frame stores role information. The object maintenance function will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 6.FIG. 6is a frame sequence for describing the object maintenance function of the communication device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that, in the example ofFIG. 6, the communication device100A operates as an owner device together with the AP20.

The owner device or the AP20periodically transmits a maintenance request frame to the member devices. For example, when a transmission time of a request frame for checking the presence of the communication devices100, which may also be a maintenance request frame, comes, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate a request frame in which information such as an object ID is stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated request frame. Note that the request frame may be a periodically transmitted signal such as a beacon, and the information stored in the request frame may be stored in the signal.

The member devices that have received the maintenance request frame transmit maintenance response frames in which role information stored in the own devices is stored to the owner device at predetermined transmission times. For example, the control unit120thereof acquires role information registered in accordance with the object ID stored in the received request frame. Next, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate a response frame for indicating the presence of the communication devices100, which may also be a maintenance response frame in which the acquired role information is stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated response frame.

Then, the owner device transmits a maintenance report frame in which updated role information is stored to the member devices on the basis of the reception of the maintenance response frame. For example, the control unit120thereof updates the registered role information stored in the own device on the basis of the role information stored in the received response frame. In more detail, no response frames are received from the communication devices100F and100D among the member devices as illustrated inFIG. 6. For this reason, the control unit120completely or temporarily excludes transmission or reception from the communication roles of the communication devices100F and100D. Next, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate a report frame serving as a maintenance report frame in which the updated registered role information is stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated report frame. Note that it is difficult to determine whether the reason for there being no response frames received from the communication devices100F and100D is an incompetent transmission function or reception function or that the communication devices are not in a communication range. Thus, in this case, the role information may be updated uniformly.

The member devices that have received the report frame register the registered role information. For example, the control unit120thereof updates the role information with respect to the object in which the devices are participating on the basis of the registered role information stored in the received report frame.

Note that, although the example in which the owner device transmits a maintenance request frame and a maintenance report frame has been described above, the member devices may transmit these frames.

A communication device100is physically connected to another communication device100. For example, the communication devices100are connected to each other via a terminal, a communication wire, or the like as illustrated inFIG. 2. Such a physical connection will also be referred to as docking below.

In addition, communication between the communication devices100participating in the object may be performed using a communication method accompanying docking. This communication method is different from a communication method to be used in communication with a communication device outside the object. Communication accompanying docking will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 7.FIG. 7is a sequence diagram for describing a flow of communication accompanying docking by the communication devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

When docking and association processes are performed, a communication device100shares status information of a communication device100being docked. For example, when the communication devices100A and100B dock with each other in a state in which the association process has been executed (i.e., a state in which the devices have participated in the object), the communication device100A and100B each communicate a status information signal as a status information signal thereof. Then, status information shared via communication is registered in each of the communication devices100A and100B. Likewise, when the communication device100C that has completed the association process docks with the communication device100B additionally, the status information signal of the communication devices100A and100B is transmitted from the communication device100B, and a status information signal of the communication device100C is transmitted from the communication device100C. As a result, status information is shared between the communication devices100A to100C.

In addition, in a case in which the association process has not yet been executed at the time at which docking is performed, only status information of the communication devices100that have directly docked with each other is shared by the communication devices100that have directly docked with each other. For example, when the communication device100D that has not executed the association process docks with the communication device100C, the communication device100C and the communication device100D share status information of the communication devices100C and100D. In this stage, status information of the communication devices100A and100B is not provided to the communication device100D.

On the other hand, the communication devices100that have executed the association process share status information of all docked communication devices100including status information of the communication devices100that have not executed the association process. For example, the communication device100C sharing the status information of the communication device100D transmits a status information signal of the communication device100D to the docked communication devices100A and100B. Accordingly, the communication devices100A to100C share the status information of the communication devices100A to100D.

Then, when the association process is executed, the status information of all communication devices100is shared by all the docked communication devices100. For example, when the association process is executed by the communication device100D for the object in which the communication devices100A to100C are participating, the status information is shared between the communication devices100A to100D.

The functions of the communication devices100have been described above. Next, a configuration of a signal used in communication for each function will be described.

First, a configuration of a first frame in which role information is stored will be described. The first frame includes a participation request frame, a participation response frame, a participation report frame, a maintenance response frame, and a maintenance report frame as described above. The first frame is, for example, a physical layer convergence protocol (PLCP) protocol data unit (PDU). A configuration of the first frame will be described with reference toFIG. 8.FIG. 8is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of the first frame communicated by a communication device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The first frame is a PPDU having a preamble, a PLCP header, and an MPDU as illustrated inFIG. 8. The MPDU has an MAC header, a data payload, and a frame check sequence (FCS). The above-described role information is stored in, for example, the data payload as an information element. A configuration of an information element in which role information is stored (which will also be referred to as a role information element) will be described with reference toFIG. 9.FIG. 9is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a role information element communicated by a communication device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The role information element has fields of element ID, length, object ID, function code, attribute, capability, category, and the like as illustrated inFIG. 9. The element ID field stores information for specifying an information element, and the length field stores information indicating a length of information stored in the information element. The object ID field stores information for specifying an object (object ID), and the function code stores role information. The attribute field stores attribute information of the communication device100, and the capability field stores information indicating performance of the communication device100. In addition, the category field stores information indicating the category of information handled by the communication device100. For example, the role information stored in the function code is code information corresponding to a communication role. Note that the role information may be information to be used to infer the communication role. The role information may be, for example, information indicating an attribute or performance of the communication device100stored in the attribute or capability as illustrated inFIG. 9, or the like, and the communication role may be inferred from the information.

Next, a configuration of a status information signal relating to a communication role of a communication device100will be described. As described above, a status information signal is communicated at the time of docking. A configuration of a status information signal will be described with reference toFIG. 10.FIG. 10is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a status information signal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The status information signal has a header a payload, and cyclic redundancy check (CRC) as illustrated inFIG. 10. The header has fields of source address in which transmission source information of the status information signal is stored and destination address in which destination information of the status information signal is stored. The payload has fields of protocol version, object ID, function code, operation status, and status code. The protocol version field stores information indicating the version of the protocol to be used in communication of the status information signal, and the object ID field stores an object ID. The function code field stores role information, and the operation status field stores information indicating an operation status of the communication device100. In addition, the status code field stores status information relating to the communication role of the communication device100. The status information includes information indicating a status of occurrence of a communication error of the communication device100, an incompetent communication function, and the like.

Note that, in a case in which the format of the status information signal is a frame format like the above-described PPDU, the status information signal may be communicated as the first frame. In addition, the role information may be shared in a different signal from the status information signal. In addition, the status information may be stored as object management information which will be described below.

(Configuration of Information to be Registered)

Next, a configuration of information regarding an object to be registered for the communication devices100will be described with reference toFIG. 11.FIG. 11is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of object management information to be registered for the communication devices100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The object management information is registered and managed in units of objects. As illustrated inFIG. 11, the object management information has fields of object ID, object attribute, number of devices, and device information. The object ID field stores an object ID of the object in which the communication devices100themselves are participating and the object attribute field stores attribute information of the object. The number of devices field stores information indicating the number of communication devices100participating in the object, and the device information fields store individual information of the communication devices100participating in the object. The individual information includes an MAC address and role information. The device information fields are actively added or deleted in accordance with the number of participating communication devices100.

Note that the above-described registered role information corresponds to role information being registered as object management information.

1.4. Process of Device

Next, a process of a communication device100will be described with respect to each function.

First, an object setting process by the object formation function will be described with reference toFIG. 12.FIG. 12is a flowchart conceptually illustrating an example of the object setting process of a communication device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The communication device100determines whether an object setting request has been made (Step S301). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether information regarding a setting instruction operation for an object by a user or an object setting instruction from an application being activated in the communication device100has been obtained via the interface unit111. Note that a communication role may be decided or a communication role decided in advance on the basis of performance of the communication device100may be selected with the setting instruction operation.

When it is determined that no object setting request has been made (No in Step S301), the communication device100determines whether an object setting request signal has been received (Step S302). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether an object setting request signal from another communication device100connected for communication has been received. The object setting request signal is generated on the basis of, for example, information input by the user obtained via the interface unit111or an instruction from an application. Note that the communication device100may transmit an object setting request signal on the basis of a user input.

In a case in which it is determined that an object setting request has been made (YES in Step S301) or it is determined that an object setting request signal has been received (YES in Step S302), the communication device100acquires object setting information (Step S303). Specifically, the control unit120acquires information including an object ID, an object attribute, a required communication role, and the like for the object relating to the setting request.

Next, the communication device100acquires set object management information (Step S304). Specifically, the control unit120acquires information such as an object ID of the object that has already been set. In addition, the control unit120acquires attribute information or performance information of the communication device100.

Next, the communication device100determines whether a new object can be set (Step S305). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether an object for a set request has been set, whether the number of objects has not reached a setting upper limit, or the like. In addition, the control unit120determines whether the device can take on the communication role required by the attribute information or performance information of the communication device100.

When it is determined that a new object can be set (Yes in Step S305), the communication device100sets an object (Step S306). Specifically, the control unit120registers object management information thereof on the basis of the acquired object setting information.

On the other hand, in a case in which it is determined that no object setting request signal has been received (NO in Step S302), the communication device100determines whether an object cancellation request has been made (Step S307). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether information regarding a setting cancellation instruction operation for an object by the user or an object setting cancellation instruction from an application being activated in the communication device100has been obtained via the interface unit111.

When it is determined that no object cancellation request has been made (NO in Step S307), the communication device100determines whether an object cancellation request signal has been received (Step S308). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether an object cancellation request signal has been received from another communication device100participating in the object in which the communication device100is participating. The object cancellation request signal may be generated and transmitted on the basis of, for example, user input information obtained via the interface unit111or an instruction from an application by another communication device100.

In a case in which it is determined that an object cancellation request has been made (YES in Step S307) or it is determined that an object cancellation request signal has been received (YES in Step S308), the communication device100cancels the object setting (Step S309). Specifically, the control unit120deletes object management information relating to the cancellation request.

In a case in which it is determined that no object cancellation request signal has been received (NO in Step S308), the communication device100determines whether the communication role can be fulfilled (Step S310). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether the function of taking on the communication role (e.g., transmission, reception, or the like) for the set object is normally working.

When it is determined that it is difficult to fulfill the communication role (NO in Step S310), the communication device100transmits a role disability report (Step S311). Specifically, when a defect is detected in the communication device100, the control unit120reports a role disability report signal indicating that it is difficult to fulfill the communication role for the object to another communication device100via the wireless communication unit130or the wired communication unit140with respect to the object for which the communication role relating to the function with the occurring defect has been set.

Next, an object participation response process by the object formation function will be described with reference toFIG. 13.FIG. 13is a flowchart conceptually illustrating an example of an object participation response process of the communication device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that, although an example in which, in a case in which the communication device100is an owner device that manages the object, the owner device operates as an access point and transmits a predetermined beacon is introduced inFIG. 13, the embodiment is not limited to the example. For example, the owner device may operate as a station (STA) and transmit a specific broadcast frame in which object information is stored or the like, instead of a beacon.

The communication device100determines whether there is an object being set (Step S401). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether there is an object of which object management information has been registered.

When it is determined that there is an object being set (YES in Step S401), the communication device100determines whether the device itself is the object manager (Step S402). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether the communication device100itself is the owner device of the object being set. Note that, in a case in which the communication device100is not the owner device, the process proceeds to Step S501which will be described below.

When it is determined that the communication device itself is the object manager (YES in Step S402), the communication device100transmits a beacon (Step S403). Specifically, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate a beacon having information of the object being set (e.g., an object ID). Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated beacon.

Next, the communication device100determines whether a participation request frame has been received (Step S404). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether an association request frame having role information has been received from a member device.

When it is determined that a participation request frame has been received (YES in Step S404), the communication device100determines whether to permit participation (Step S405). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether to permit participation of the member device serving as the transmission source of the association request frame.

When it is determined to permit participating (YES in Step S405), the communication device100transmits a participation permission frame having role information (Step S406). Specifically, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate an association grant frame having all role information of the communication device100participating in the object for which participation is permitted. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated association grant frame.

Next, the communication device100determines whether an authentication request frame has been received (Step S407). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether an authentication request frame of a member device with permitted participation has been received.

When it is determined that an authentication request frame has been received (YES in Step S407), the communication device100transmits an authentication completion frame (Step S408). Specifically, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate an authentication register frame as a response to the authentication request frame. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated authentication register frame.

Next, the communication device100registers the role information for the object (Step S409). Specifically, the control unit120adds the role information obtained in the association process to the object management information.

Next, the communication device100transmits a participation report frame having the role information (Step S410). Specifically, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate a report frame in which all role information corresponding to the updated object management information is stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated report frame.

Next, an object participation request process by the object formation function will be described with reference toFIG. 14.FIG. 14is a flowchart conceptually illustrating an example of the object participation request process of the communication device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The communication device100determines whether a request for participation in the object has been made when it is determined that the communication device100is not the object manager in Step S402described above (Step S501). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether a request for participation in the object has been reported from a communication upper layer.

When it is determined that a request for participation in the object has been made (YES in Step S501), the communication device100transmits a participation request frame having role information (Step S502). Specifically, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate an association request frame in which role information already set for the object that is the participation destination is stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated association request frame.

Next, the communication device100determines whether a participation permission frame has been received (Step S503). Specifically the control unit120determines whether an association grant frame has been received as a response to the association request frame.

When it is determined that a participation permission frame has been received (YES in Step S503), the communication device100transmits an authentication request frame (Step S504). Specifically, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate an authentication request frame. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated authentication request frame.

Next, the communication device100determines whether an authentication completion frame has been received (Step S505). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether an authentication register frame has been received.

When it is determined that an authentication completion frame has been received (YES in Step S505), the communication device100transmits an acknowledgement response frame (Step S506). Specifically, the control unit120transmits an acknowledgement (ACK) frame serving as an acknowledgement response to the authentication register frame.

Next, the communication device100activates the communication role for the object (Step S507). Specifically, the control unit120activates the communication role registered for the object in which participation has been permitted in the association process. For example, in a case in which the communication role of the communication device100having transmission and reception functions is transmission, the control unit120activates the transmission function and stops the reception function.

(Communication Process Based on Communication Role)

Next, a process relating to a communication function based on a communication role will be described with reference toFIG. 15.FIG. 15is a flowchart conceptually illustrating an example of a communication process based on a communication role of the communication device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The communication device100determines whether its communication role is transmission (Step S601). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether its communication role registered for the object being set is transmission.

When it is determined that its communication role is transmission (YES in Step S601), the communication device100determines whether an input has occurred via the interface (Step S602). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether input operation information of a user or input information from an application or a service has been provided via the interface unit111.

When it is determined that an input has occurred via the interface (YES in Step S602), the communication device100transmits an input information frame (Step S603). Specifically, the control unit120determines transmission or non-transmission of the information obtained via the interface unit111. When transmission of the information is determined, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate an input information frame in which the information is stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated input information frame.

In addition, the communication device100determines whether its communication role is reception (Step S604). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether the communication role registered for the object being set is reception.

When it is determined that the communication role is reception (YES in Step S604), the communication device100determines whether a data frame has been received (Step S605). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether a data frame has been received from a communication device outside the object or another communication device100inside the object.

When it is determined that a data frame has been received (YES in Step S605), the communication device100decodes the data (Step S606). Specifically, the control unit120determines output or non-output of the received data frame. When it is determined to output the data frame, the data processing unit110decodes the data frame and retrieves the data.

Then, the communication device100outputs the data (Step S607). Specifically, the control unit120outputs the data retrieved from the data frame to an application or a service via the interface unit111.

Next, a process relating to the object maintenance function will be described with reference toFIG. 16.FIG. 16is a flowchart conceptually illustrating an example of an object maintenance process of the communication device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The communication device100determines whether a maintenance request frame has been received (Step S701). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether a request frame has been received from the owner device or a member device with respect to the object in which the communication device100is participating.

When it is determined that a maintenance request frame has been received (YES in Step S701), the communication device100determines a response time (Step S702). Specifically, the control unit120determines a transmission time of a response frame on the basis of the reception of the request frame.

Next, the communication device100determines whether the response time has arrived (Step S703). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether the determined transmission time has arrived.

When it is determined that the response time has arrived (YES in Step S703), the communication device100transmits a maintenance response frame (Step S704). Specifically, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate a response frame in which registered role information is stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated response frame.

Next, the communication device100determines whether a maintenance response frame has been received from another device (Step S705). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether a response frame has been received from at least one of the other communication devices100participating in the objet.

When it is determined that a maintenance response frame has not been received from another device (NO in Step S705), the communication device100stores a status of a communication function of the other device (Step S706). Specifically, the control unit120determines that a transmission function or a reception function of the other communication device100present within the communication range is incompetent on the basis of the fact that a response frame that is supposed to be transmitted on the basis of the reception of the request frame has not been received. Then, the control unit120causes the fact that the communication function of the surrounding communication device100is incompetent to be stored in object management information, or the like.

In addition, the communication device100determines whether the maintenance request frame has been received within a predetermined period (Step S707). Specifically, the control unit120determined whether a response frame has been received before the predetermined period elapses after a previous response frame is received from the other communication device100(at least the owner device) participating in the object.

When it is determined that the maintenance request frame has not been received within a predetermined period (NO in Step S707), the communication device100stores the status of the object (Step S708). Specifically, in a case in which no request frame has not been received even after a period within which a request frame is supposed to be transmitted elapses, the control unit120determines that there is no communication device100(at least the owner device) participating in the object around the communication device100. Then, the control unit120stores the fact that there is no communication device100participating in the object.

Next, a process relating to a docking process will be described with reference toFIG. 17.FIG. 17is a flowchart conceptually illustrating an example of the docking process of the communication device100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The communication device100determines whether the communication device is in connection to another communication device100in a communication method accompanying a physical connection (Step S801). Specifically, the wired communication unit140determines whether it is in connection to another communication device100.

When it is determined that the communication device is in connection to another communication device100in a communication method accompanying a physical connection (YES in Step S801), the communication devices100exchange status information (Step S802). Specifically, the control unit120generates status information indicating a status of a transmission function, a reception function, or the like of the communication device100. Then, the control unit120causes the wired communication unit140to transmit a status information signal having the generated status information.

Next, when the communication device100determines that the object in which the communication device is participating is the same as that of the connected communication device100(Step S803). Specifically, the control unit120ascertains the object in which the other communication device100is participating using the status information obtained from the other communication device100. Then, the control unit120determines whether the ascertained object is the same as the object in which the communication device100is participating.

When it is determined that the object in which the communication device is participating is the same as that of the connected communication device100(YES in Step S803), the communication device100stores the status information (Step S804). Specifically, the control unit120adds the obtained status information to the object management information.

1.5. Summary of Embodiment of Present Disclosure

As described above, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication devices100generate a first frame in which role information specifying a communication role set for a group of at least one communication device in communication with an outside of the group is stored and transmits the first frame. Costs for communication devices were incurred in various viewpoints in the past. Communication devices generally have both transmission function and reception function, for example, even though they are devices that frequently execute only either transmission or reception. For this reason, costs are incurred for manufacturing such communication devices. In addition, costs are also incurred in viewpoints of power consumption or calculation resources since both transmission function and reception function are caused to work.

On the other hand, the above-described costs can be reduced according to the communication devices100if only communication in accordance with communication roles for a formed object is executed and communication results are shared within the object. For example, manufacturing costs can be reduced by causing communication devices to include only a frequently used function among the transmission function and the reception function. In addition, even in a case in which both the transmission function and the reception function are included, power consumption can be reduced by making one of the functions inactive (i.e., stopping one function from working). Therefore, costs incurred for the communication devices100can be reduced while maintaining the communication function. In addition, since it is better for the communication devices100serving as constituent elements of the object to communicate in accordance with their communication roles, even if their communication functions are incompetent, they can be replaced with other communication devices100that can fulfill the same communication roles. In addition, since the communication roles within the object are divided, even a communication device100not having part of the communication functions can be added to the object as constituent elements thereof if the device can be supplemented by another communication device100within the object. Therefore, a user can freely select constituent elements of the object to some extent.

In addition, the above-described first frame includes a participation request frame relating to a request for participation in the group, and the communication devices100control generation of the participation request frame in which role information is stored on the basis of group information regarding the group and transmits the participation request frame. Thus, since the role information is shared at the time of participation in the object, the role information of the communication devices100participating in the object can be reliably managed. In particular, as the existing mechanism such as the association process is used for communication of the participation request frame, the communication devices100can be easily implemented.

In addition, the communication devices100transmit a report frame in which the group information is stored and receive a participation request frame in which role information is stored as first wireless communication devices. In addition, the communication devices100receive a report frame in which the group information is stored from a first wireless communication device, control generation of a participation request frame on the basis of the group information stored in the report frame, and transmit the participation request frame to the first wireless communication device. Thus, the communication devices can surely participate in a desired object since object information regarding the object is reported from the owner device or a member device relating to the object. Note that the group information (i.e., the object information) may be obtained through an input of a user or an instruction from an application via the interface unit111.

In addition, the role information stored in the participation request frame includes information specifying the communication role of the transmission source of the participation request frame. Thus, the object management information can be updated by adding the role information stored in the received participation request frame to the object management information without change. Therefore, the updating process of the object management information can be simplified.

In addition, the above-described first frame includes a participation response frame communicated as a response to the participation request frame relating to the request for participating in the group. Thus, the role information of a communication device100that has already participated in the object can be shared for a communication device100newly participating in the object without using a separate frame. Thus, the role information can be shared without increasing a communication amount.

In addition, the role information stored in the participation response frame includes information specifying the communication roles of communication devices participating in the group. Thus, it is possible to prevent communication for sharing the role information between the communication devices100included in the object from being separately executed each time new participation in the object occurs.

In addition, the above-described first frame includes a participation report frame destined for a communication device participating in the group, the frame transmitted on the basis of reception of the participation request frame relating to the request for participation in the group. Thus, role information of a new participating communication device100can be shared with the communication devices100participating in the object. Therefore, the communication amount can be reduced further than in a case in which the communication devices100share the role information separately. In addition, with respect to a communication device100whose new participation in the object is difficult to ascertain, the role information of the new participating communication device100can be shared.

In addition, the above-described first frame includes a maintenance response frame communicated as a response to a maintenance request frame for maintenance of the group destined for the communication devices participating in the group. Here, since the communication devices generally have portability, the devices may be moved. Thus, there is concern of the communication devices100being moved out of the communication range. As a result, the communication roles registered for the object are likely not to be fulfilled. To deal with this, by performing maintenance of the object management information such as the role information or the like within the object, the communication roles within the object can be optimized. Therefore, it is possible to increase sustainability of communication using the object.

In addition, the above-described first frame includes a maintenance report frame in which the role information communicated on the basis of the reception of the maintenance response frame is stored. Thus, it is possible to report the maintenance result to all the communication devices100participating in the object. Therefore, the communication amount can be reduced further than in a case in which the communication devices100share maintenance information, i.e., latest role information, individually. In addition, the entire communication devices100participating in the object can share the latest maintenance information, and thus information inconsistency can be prevented.

In addition, the above-described communication role includes at least one of transmission or reception. Thus, since transmission and reception are divided by the communication devices100participating in the object, the above-described costs for the communication devices100can be reduced while securing the communication function as the object.

In addition, the above-described communication role includes communication of data for specific use or of a specific type. Thus, a communication process to be performed can be adapted for the communication devices100by communicating only data corresponding to the communication devices100. Therefore, a load and power consumption of the communication devices100caused by the communication process can be optimized.

In addition, the above-described role information is determined on the basis of information regarding a setting by a user or performance of the communication devices100. Thus, the communication role based on intention of the user can be fulfilled. Therefore, an operation of the object intended by the user can be realized. In addition, the communication role in accordance with a capability of the communication devices100can be fulfilled. Therefore, it is possible to reduce a possibility of an unfeasible communication role being assigned.

In addition, communication methods between the communication devices participating in the group are different from communication methods used outside the group. Thus, it is possible to freely select a communication method regardless of communication methods for communication with the outside of the object. Therefore, communication can be performed without considering interference or the like occurring in the communication. In addition, even a communication device100having only one configuration of transmission and reception for communication with the outside of the object can perform transmission and reception with the communication devices100included in the object as long as the communication device has the transmission and reception functions for communication performed within the object.

In addition, the communication methods between the communication devices participating in the group include a communication method accompanying a physical connection, and the communication devices100perform communication using the communication method accompanying a physical connection. Thus, communication performance such as communication connectivity, a communication speed, and the like can be improved further when a wired communication method is used than when a wireless communication method is used. In addition, the user can visually ascertain the communication devices100participating in the object and can notice an error of a participation destination or the like.

In addition, the communication devices100communicate a status information signal relating to communication roles of the communication devices100using the communication method accompanying a physical connection. Thus, since the status information signal is communicated using the communication method accompanying a physical connection that brings higher communication performance, more accurate statuses of the communication devices100included in the object can be shared. Therefore, their communication roles can be optimized further in accordance with the statuses of the communication devices100participating in the object.

2. MODIFIED EXAMPLES

The embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above. Note that an embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described examples. First to third modified examples of the present embodiment will be described below.

First Modified Example

As a first modified example of an embodiment of the present disclosure, maintenance of an object may be diagnosis of a failure of a communication device100. Specifically, the communication device100communicates a failure diagnostic request frame and a failure diagnosis response frame. A failure diagnosis function will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 18.FIG. 18is a frame sequence for describing a failure diagnosis function of a communication device100according to a first modified example of an embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that, inFIG. 18, the AP20is included in constituent elements of an object and the AP20operates as an owner device.

The owner device periodically transmits a failure diagnostic request frame to the member devices. For example, when a predetermined transmission time arrives, the AP20transmits a diagnostic request frame in which information such as an object ID is stored.

The member devices transmit failure diagnostic request frames in accordance with the reception of the failure diagnostic request frame. For example, the member devices100A to100C and100E that have received the diagnostic request frame transfer diagnostic request frames. Here, since the member device100D has an incompetent transmission function, it does not transfer a diagnostic request. In addition, since the member device100F has not received the diagnostic request frame from the AP20, it does not transfer the diagnostic request frame from the AP20.

A member device also transmits a failure diagnostic request frame in accordance with the reception of the failure diagnostic request frame transferred by the member device. For example, although the member device100F does not receive the diagnostic request frame from the AP20, it receives the diagnostic request frame transferred by the member device100E. Thus, the member device100F transmits a diagnostic request frame in accordance with the reception of the transferred diagnostic request frame. Note that, since an upper limit (e.g., one) is set for the number of transfer operations, the phenomenon such as a broadcast stream is avoided.

In addition, a member device transmits a failure diagnostic response frame as a response to the failure diagnostic request frame. Specifically, the member device transmits the failure diagnostic response frame in accordance with the reception of the failure diagnostic request frame. For example, upon receiving diagnostic request frame, the each of the member devices transmits a diagnostic response frame. In addition, in a case in which the member device receives a failure diagnostic request frame from another member device after transmitting a failure diagnostic request frame, the member device may delay transmission of a failure diagnostic response frame. For example, the member devices100C and100E stand by for a predetermined time after transmission of diagnostic request frames. The reason for this is that there is a possibility of the transferred diagnostic request frames being further transferred by another member device100. The member devices100C and100E receive a diagnostic request frame from the member device100F during the standby time. Thus, the member devices100C and100E delay transmission of a diagnostic response frame by further standing by for a predetermined time.

The member devices transmit the failure diagnostic response frame after standing by for the predetermined time. Here, only some member devices among the member devices that have received the failure diagnostic request frames transmit the failure diagnostic response frame. For example, the member device100E that has received the diagnostic request frame from the other member devices100A to100C and100F transmits a diagnostic response frame to the AP20on behalf of them. The member device100E updates role information and status information on the basis of a reception situation of the diagnostic request frame. Then, the member device100E transmits a diagnostic response frame in which role information and status information are stored. For example, the diagnostic response frame stores, as the status information, that the member device100D is likely to have an incompetent transmission function or incompetent reception function, the member device100F is not located within the communication range of the AP20, and the like.

In addition, the owner device transmits a failure diagnostic report frame in which updated role information and status information are stored to the member devices on the basis of the reception of the failure diagnostic response frame. For example, the AP20updates object management information stored in itself on the basis of the role information and the status information stored in the received diagnostic response frame. Then, the AP20causes the data processing unit110to generate the diagnostic report frame in which the updated role information and status information are stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated diagnostic report frame.

The member devices that have received the failure diagnostic report frame update the object management information. For example, the member devices100A to100E update the object management information for the object in which the devices are participating on the basis of the role information and the status information stored in the received diagnostic report frame. Note that, since the member device100F does not receive the diagnostic report frame directly from the AP20, the other member devices including the member device100E and the like may transfer the diagnostic report frame. In addition, in a case in which the communication devices100included in the object are docking at each other, the role information and the status information may be shared using communication of a wired communication method or the like different from the communication method used in the communication of the diagnostic report frame.

As described above, according to the first modified example, the maintenance of the object is a failure diagnosis of the communication devices100. Thus, the status information of the communication devices100can also be collected simultaneously with ascertainment of their presence. Therefore, more accurate statuses of the communication devices100participating in the object can be ascertained. Accordingly, their communication roles can be changed to roles more suitable for a situation as well.

In addition, a communication device100transmits a maintenance request frame in accordance with reception of a maintenance request frame. Thus, it is possible to cause a member device located in a distance in which it is not possible to directly receive the maintenance request frame to receive the maintenance request frame. Therefore, a reason for non-reception of a maintenance response frame can be specified more easily. For example, because that a device is not located within the range of direct communication is excluded from the reason for non-reception of a maintenance response frame, the reason narrows down to communication functional incompetence.

In addition, in a case in which a maintenance request frame is received from another communication device after the transmission of the maintenance request frame, the communication device100delays transmission of a maintenance response frame. Thus, it is possible to avoid a collision of the maintenance response frame with a maintenance request frame transferred from a member device located in a distance in which the maintenance request frame is not directly received. Therefore, a situation of the member devices included in the object can be ascertained more reliably. In addition, by preventing failure in communication of the maintenance response frame, deterioration in communication efficiency can be prevented.

Second Modified Example

As a second modified example of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a failure diagnosis result may be shared using a communication method accompanying docking Specifically, when a communication device100docks itself with another communication device100, the communication device reports a failure diagnosis result to the other communication device100using communication of a wired communication method. Then, the communication device100stores the failure diagnosis result obtained from the communication device100that is the docking partner and updates object management information on the basis of the failure diagnosis result. Sharing of a failure diagnosis result using a communication method accompanying docking will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 19.FIG. 19is a signal sequence for describing a failure diagnosis result sharing function using a communication method accompanying docking in a communication device100according to a second modified example of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The communication device100reports a failure diagnosis result to another communication device100it is docking with after the docking. For example, when the communication devices100A to100C dock with each other, failure diagnosis information is shared by the communication devices100A to100C via communication using a wired communication method. Likewise, when the communication devices100C and100D dock with each other, the failure diagnosis information is shared by the communication devices100A to100C that have already docked with each other and the communication device100D via communication using the wired communication method. Note that a failure diagnosis may be executed at the time of docking.

Furthermore, the communication device100may report a failure diagnosis result of another communication device100as a failure diagnosis result of the object to the user. Specifically, the communication device100reports a failure diagnosis result of another communication device100participating in the object in accordance with whether the device itself can report or not. A reporting function of a failure diagnosis result will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 19.

When a failure is found from a failure diagnosis result after docking, the communication device100determines whether reporting to the user is possible. For example, when the communication device100C find its failure after docking with the communication devices100A to100D, the communication device determines whether display output is possible.

In a case in which it is determined that reporting to the user is not possible, the communication device100makes a request to another communication device100participating in the object for reporting. For example, when it is determined that display output is not possible, the communication device100C transmits a diagnostic malfunction signal for making a request for reporting to the communication devices100A and100F having a display function.

The communication devices100that have received the request for reporting reports a failure diagnosis result to the user. For example, the communication devices100A and100F that have received the diagnostic malfunction signal display failure diagnosis information of the transmission source of the signal.

Furthermore, a process for sharing a failure diagnosis result using the communication method accompanying docking will be described with reference toFIG. 20.FIG. 20is a flowchart conceptually illustrating an example of a process for sharing a failure diagnosis result using the communication method accompanied with docking by the communication device100according to the second modified example of an embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that description of processes that are substantially the same as the above-described processes will be omitted.

When it is determined that the communication device100is connected to another communication device100in the communication method accompanying a physical connection (YES in Step S811), failure diagnosis information is exchanged (Step S812). Specifically, the control unit120executes a failure diagnosis for the communication function of the communication device100. Then, the control unit120causes the wired communication unit140to transmit a failure diagnosis information signal in which information indicating a failure diagnosis result is stored.

Next, when it is determined that the object in which the communication device100is participating is the same as that of the connected communication device100(YES in Step S813), the communication device stores the failure diagnosis information (Step S814). Specifically, the control unit120stores the obtained failure diagnosis information for each object. Note that the failure diagnosis information may be added to object management information.

Next, the communication device100determines whether the failure diagnosis information indicates functional incompetence (Step S815). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether the failure diagnosis information of the communication device100indicates incompetence of the function relating to the communication role (e.g., the transmission function or the reception function). Note that the failure diagnosis information may include information regarding a function other than the communication function (e.g., a display function or a memory function).

When it is determined that the failure diagnosis information indicates functional incompetence (YES in Step S815), the communication device100determines whether it can report the failure diagnosis information (Step S816). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether it can report functional incompetence to the user using functions of the communication device100. In more detail, the control unit120determines whether a display unit or an audio output unit is provided in the communication device100or each unit is normally operating.

When it is determined that the failure diagnosis information can be reported (YES in Step S816), the communication device100reports the failure diagnosis information to the user (Step S817). Specifically, the control unit120causes the display unit or the audio output unit to output the failure diagnosis information.

On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not possible to report the failure diagnosis information (NO in Step S816), the communication device100determines whether a reporting request can be made to another communication device100(Step S818). Specifically, the control unit120determines whether a communication device100with a display unit or an audio output unit is participating in the object.

When it is determined that a reporting request can be made to another communication device100(YES in Step S818), the communication device100makes a reporting request (Step S819). Specifically, the control unit120causes the wired communication unit140to transmit a diagnostic malfunction signal to the communication device100with a display unit or an audio output unit. Note that the control unit120may cause the wired communication unit140to transmit a diagnostic malfunction signal to all the communication devices100participating in the object without determining whether a reporting request can be made.

Note that, although the example in which the reporting method for a failure diagnosis result to the user is a display has been described above, the reporting method may be an audio output.

As described above, according to the second modified example, a failure diagnosis result is shared using the communication method accompanying docking. Here, power consumed in wired communication is generally lower than power consumed in wireless communication. For this reason, when failure diagnosis information is communicated in a wired communication method, power consumption of the communication devices100can be reduced. Therefore, sustainability of communication of the communication devices100can be improved.

In addition, the failure diagnosis information is reported to the user on the basis of communication of a failure diagnosis reporting request. Thus, even in a case in which the failing communication device100is not possible to report the failure to the user since the communication device does not have a communication function, another communication device100can report the failure instead. Therefore, a failure of the communication device100can be reported to users more reliably.

Third Modified Example

As a third modified example of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a communication device100may perform communication on behalf of another communication device100. Specifically, a communication device100performs communication in accordance with a communication role of another communication device (which will also be referred to as substitute communication below) on behalf of the communication device on the basis of at least one of role information or status information of the communication device. A substitute communication function will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 21.FIG. 21is a signal sequence for describing the substitute communication function of a communication device100according to the third modified example of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The communication device100determines whether an input information frame can be transmitted when an input occurs after docking. For example, the communication device100D determines whether an input information frame can be transmitted when an input occurs in the communication device100D after docking with the communication device100A to100D.

When it is determined that it is not possible to transmit an input information frame, the communication device100provides input information using wired communication to another communication device100that can perform wireless communication, together with a substitute communication request. For example, in a case in which it is not possible to transmit an input information frame due to transmission functional incompetence or the like, the communication device100D provides input information (InputData4) together with information for making a request for substitute transmission to the communication device100C whose transmission function is normally working via wired communication.

The communication device100that has been provided with the substitute communication request and the input information transmits the input information frame of the input information to a communication device100that is a destination. For example, the communication device100C that has been provided with the substitute communication request and the input information via wired communication transmits the input information frame to the communication devices100A,100E and100F, on behalf of the communication device100D. Note that destination information is provided from the communication device100D along with the input information or separately. In addition, the destination of the input information frame may be a communication device outside the object, such as the AP20.

Then, when an output of the input information occurs, a communication device100that has received the input information frame transmits an output information frame in which output information is stored to another communication device100that is a destination. For example, when an output with respect to the input occurs on the basis of the input information frame, the communication device100F transmits an output information frame to the communication devices100A and100E. Then, the communication devices100A and100E that have received the output information frame each output information on the basis of the output information.

Note that substitute communication may be repeatedly performed. For example, substitute communication may be performed from when a substitute communication request is reported until when a substitute communication cancellation is reported. In addition, substitute communication may be cancelled when a predetermined period of time elapses from the reporting of the substitute communication request or substitute communication has been performed a predetermined number of times. In addition, although the example in which substitute transmission is performed has been described above, substitute reception may be performed.

As described above, according to the third modified example, a communication device100performs communication in accordance with a communication role of another communication device on the basis of at least one of role information or status information of the communication device on behalf of the other communication device. Thus, even if a communication device100that is not capable of fulfill a communication role due to functional incompetence or the like is present within an object, the communication role can be substituted and thus a communication function as an object can be maintained. Therefore, sustainability of communication in units of objects can be improved.

3. APPLICATION EXAMPLES

The technology according to the present disclosure can be applied to various products. For example, the communication device100may be realized as mobile terminals such as smartphones, tablet personal computers (PCs), notebook PCs, portable game terminals, or digital cameras, fixed-type terminals such as television receivers, printers, digital scanners, or network storages, or car-mounted terminals such as car navigation devices. In addition, the communication device100may be realized as terminals that perform machine to machine (M2M) communication (also referred to as machine type communication (MTC) terminals) such as smart meters, vending machines, remotely controlled monitoring devices, or point of sale (POS) terminals. Furthermore, the communication device100may be wireless communication modules mounted in such terminals (e.g., integrated circuit modules configured by one die).

On the other hand, for example, the communication device100(hereinafter, also referred to as an AP100) may be realized as a wireless LAN access point (also referred to as a wireless base station) which has a router function or does not have a router function. The AP100may be realized as a mobile wireless LAN router. The AP100may also be a wireless communication module (e.g., an integrated circuit module configured with one die) mounted on such devices.

3-1. First Application Example

FIG. 22is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a smartphone900to which the technology of the present disclosure can be applied. The smartphone900includes a processor901, a memory902, a storage903, an external connection interface904, a camera906, a sensor907, a microphone908, an input device909, a display device910, a speaker911, a wireless communication interface913, an antenna switch914, an antenna915, a bus917, a battery918, and an auxiliary controller919.

The processor901may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a system on chip (SoC), and controls functions of an application layer and other layers of the smartphone900. The memory902includes random access memory (RAM) and read only memory (ROM), and stores data and programs executed by the processor901. The storage903can include a storage medium such as a semiconductor memory or a hard disk. The external connection interface904is an interface for connecting an externally attachable device such as a memory card or a universal serial bus (USB) device to the smartphone900.

The camera906has an image sensor, for example, a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS), to generate captured images. The sensor907can include a sensor group including, for example, a positioning sensor, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, and the like. The microphone908converts sounds input to the smartphone900into audio signals. The input device909includes, for example, a touch sensor that detects touches on a screen of the display device910, a key pad, a keyboard, buttons, switches, and the like, to receive operation or information input from a user. The display device910has a screen such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), or an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display to display output images of the smartphone900. The speaker911converts audio signals output from the smartphone900into sounds.

The wireless communication interface913supports one or more wireless LAN standards of IEEE 802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, 11ac, and 11ad, to establish wireless communication. The wireless communication interface913can communicate with another device via a wireless LAN access point in an infrastructure mode. In addition, the wireless communication interface913can directly communicate with another device in a direct communication mode such as an ad hoc mode or Wi-Fi Direct (registered trademark). Note that, Wi-Fi Direct is different from the ad hoc mode. One of two terminals operates as an access point, and communication is performed directly between the terminals. The wireless communication interface913can typically include a baseband processor, a radio frequency (RF) circuit, a power amplifier, and the like. The wireless communication interface913may be a one-chip module on which a memory that stores a communication control program, a processor that executes the program, and a relevant circuit are integrated. The wireless communication interface913may support another kind of wireless communication method such as a cellular communication method, a near-field communication method, or a proximity wireless communication method in addition to the wireless IAN method. The antenna switch914switches a connection destination of the antenna915among a plurality of circuits (e.g., circuits for different wireless communication methods) included in the wireless communication interface913. The antenna915has a single or a plurality of antenna elements (e.g., a plurality of antenna elements constituting a MIMO antenna), and is used for transmission and reception of wireless signals through the wireless communication interface913.

Note that the smartphone900may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., antennas for a wireless LAN or antennas for a proximity wireless communication method, or the like), without being limited to the example ofFIG. 22. In this case, the antenna switch914may be omitted from the configuration of the smartphone900.

The bus917connects the processor901, the memory902, the storage903, the external connection interface904, the camera906, the sensor907, the microphone908, the input device909, the display device910, the speaker911, the wireless communication interface913, and the auxiliary controller919with each other. The battery918supplies electric power to each of the blocks of the smartphone900illustrated inFIG. 22via power supply lines partially indicated by dashed lines in the drawing. The auxiliary controller919causes, for example, necessary minimum functions of the smartphone900to be operated in a sleep mode.

In the smartphone900illustrated inFIG. 22, the data processing unit110, the control unit120, and the wireless communication unit130described above with reference toFIG. 3may be implemented in the wireless communication interface913. Further, at least some of the functions may be implemented in the processor901or the auxiliary controller919. For example, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate a first frame in which role information specifying a communication role in an object in which the smartphone900is participating in is stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated first frame. Accordingly, by fulfilling only the communication role reported using the first frame in the object in which the smartphone900is participating in, the smartphone can communicate with a communication device outside the object. Thus, functions other than one relating to the communication role may not be caused to work, and thus costs incurred for the communication device can be reduced while maintaining the communication function. Therefore, power consumption of the smartphone900can be reduced, and depletion of power stored in the battery918can be delayed.

Note that the smartphone900may operate as a wireless access point (software AP) as the processor901executes the function of an access point at an application level. In addition, the wireless communication interface913may have the function of a wireless access point.

3-2. Second Application Example

FIG. 23is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a car navigation device920to which the technology of the present disclosure can be applied. The car navigation device920includes a processor921, a memory922, a Global Positioning System (GPS) module924, a sensor925, a data interface926, a content player927, a storage medium interface928, an input device929, a display device930, a speaker931, a wireless communication interface933, an antenna switch934, an antenna935, and a battery938.

The processor921may be, for example, a CPU or an SoC controlling a navigation function and other functions of the car navigation device920. The memory922includes RAM and ROM storing data and programs executed by the processor921.

The GPS module924measures a position of the car navigation device920(e.g., latitude, longitude, and altitude) using GPS signals received from a GPS satellite. The sensor925can include a sensor group including, for example, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a barometric sensor, and the like. The data interface926is connected with an in-vehicle network941via, for example, a terminal (not illustrated) to acquire data generated on the vehicle side such as car speed data.

The content player927reproduces content stored in a storage medium (e.g., a CD or a DVD) inserted into the storage medium interface928. The input device929includes, for example, a touch sensor that detects touches on a screen of the display device930, buttons, switches, and the like to receive operation or information input from a user. The display device930has a screen such as an LCD or an OLED display to display images of the navigation function or reproduced content. The speaker931outputs sounds of the navigation function or reproduced content.

The wireless communication interface933supports one or more wireless LAN standards of IEEE 802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, 11ac, 11ad, and the like to execute wireless communication. The wireless communication interface933can communicate with another device via a wireless LAN access point in the infrastructure mode. In addition, the wireless communication interface933can directly communicate with another device in a direct communication mode such as an ad hoc mode or Wi-Fi Direct. The wireless communication interface933can typically have a baseband processor, an RF circuit, a power amplifier, and the like. The wireless communication interface933may be a one-chip module on which a memory that stores a communication control program, a processor that executes the program, and a relevant circuit are integrated. The wireless communication interface933may support another kind of wireless communication method such as a near-field communication method, a proximity wireless communication method, or the cellular communication method in addition to the wireless LAN method. The antenna switch934switches a connection destination of the antenna935among a plurality of circuits included in the wireless communication interface933. The antenna935has a single or a plurality of antenna elements and is used for transmission and reception of wireless signals from and to the wireless communication interface933.

Note that the car navigation device920may include a plurality of antennas, without being limited to the example ofFIG. 23. In this case, the antenna switch934may be omitted from the configuration of the car navigation device920.

The battery938supplies electric power to each of the blocks of the car navigation device920illustrated inFIG. 23via power supply lines partially indicated by dashed lines in the drawing. In addition, the battery938accumulates electric power supplied from the vehicle side.

In the car navigation device920illustrated inFIG. 23, the data processing unit110, the control unit120, and the wireless communication unit130described above with reference toFIG. 3may be implemented in the wireless communication interface933. Further, at least some of the functions may be implemented in the processor921. For example, the control unit120causes the data processing unit110to generate a first frame in which role information specifying a communication role in an object in which the car navigation device920is participating in is stored. Then, the wireless communication unit130transmits the generated first frame. Accordingly, by fulfilling only the communication role reported using the first frame in the object in which the car navigation device920is participating in, the smartphone can communicate with a communication device outside the object. Thus, functions other than one relating to the communication role may not be caused to work, and thus costs incurred for the communication device can be reduced while maintaining the communication function. Therefore, power consumption of the car navigation device920can be reduced, and depletion of power stored in the battery938can be delayed.

In addition, the wireless communication interface933may operate as the above-described AP100and provide a wireless communication to a terminal of a user on board a vehicle. At this time, for example, the car navigation device920can comprehensively manage role information by managing an object. Thus, the car navigation device920can appropriately determine a communication device100that transmits frames to the car navigation device920and a communication device100that receives frames from the car navigation device920. Thus, when a frame in which destination information has been set on the basis of a communication role is communicated from the car navigation device920, the communication device100that communicates with the car navigation device920can perform a communication process with reference to the destination information, without determining execution of a communication process on the basis of the communication role. Accordingly, a load of the communication process can be reduced.

Further, the technology of the present disclosure may be realized as an in-vehicle system (or a vehicle)940including one or more blocks of the above-described car navigation device920, the in-vehicle network941, and a vehicle-side module942. The vehicle-side module942generates vehicle-side data such as a vehicle speed, the number of engine rotations, or failure information and outputs the generated data to the in-vehicle network941.

3-3. Third Application Example

FIG. 24is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a wireless access point950to which the technology of the present disclosure can be applied. The wireless access point950includes a controller951, a memory952, an input device954, a display device955, a network interface957, a wireless communication interface963, an antenna switch964, and an antenna965.

The controller951may be, for example, a CPU or a digital signal processor (DSP) and operates various functions (e.g., access limitation, routing, encryption, a fire wall, and log management) of the Internet Protocol (IP) layer and higher layers of the wireless access point950. The memory952includes RAM and ROM and stores a program executed by the controller951and various kinds of control data (e.g., a terminal list, a routing table, an encryption key, security settings, and a log).

The input device954includes, for example, a button or a switch, and receives operation performed by a user. The display device955includes an LED lamp and displays an operation status of the wireless access point950.

The network interface957is a wired communication interface that connects the wireless access point950with a wired communication network958. The network interface957may include a plurality of connection terminals. The wired communication network958may be a LAN such as Ethernet (registered trademark) or may be a wide area network (WAN).

The wireless communication interface963supports one or more wireless LAN standards of IEEE 802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, 11ac, 11ad, and the like to supply wireless connection to a nearby terminal as an access point. The wireless communication interface963can typically include a baseband processor, an RF circuit, and a power amplifier. The wireless communication interface963may be a one-chip module in which memory storing a communication control program, a processor executing the program, and relevant circuits are integrated. The antenna switch964switches a connection destination of the antenna965among a plurality of circuits included in the wireless communication interface963. The antenna965includes one antenna element or a plurality of antenna elements and is used to transmit and receive a wireless signal through the wireless communication interface963.

In the wireless access point950illustrated inFIG. 24, the data processing unit110, the control unit120, and the wireless communication unit130described above with reference toFIG. 3may be realized by the wireless communication interface963. In addition, at least a part of these functions may be implemented by the controller951. For example, the wireless access point950can comprehensively manage role information by managing an object. Thus, the wireless access point950can appropriately determine a communication device100that transmits frames to the wireless access point950and a communication device100that receives frames from the wireless access point950. Thus, when a frame in which destination information has been set on the basis of a communication role is communicated from the wireless access point950, the communication device100that communicates with the wireless access point950can perform a communication process with reference to the destination information, without determining execution of a communication process on the basis of the communication role. Accordingly, a load of the communication process can be reduced.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure described above, the above-described costs can be reduced by only executing communication in accordance with a communication role in a formed object and sharing a communication result within the object. For example, manufacturing costs can be reduced by providing only a function that is frequently used among a transmission function and a reception function. In addition, even in a case in which both the transmission function and the reception function are provided, power consumption can be reduced by making one of the functions inactive (i.e., stopping the function from working). Therefore, costs incurred for the communication device100can be reduced while the communication functions are maintained.

Although the communication method accompanying a physical connection has been described as being used in communication within the object in the above-described embodiment, for example, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a communication method other than the communication method accompanying a physical connection and a wireless LAN communication method may be used. For example, Bluetooth (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), infrared communication, or the like may be used for the communication within the object. In addition, a wireless communication method of a standard that is different from a standard for communication of the first frame may be used instead of the wired communication method. For example, 5 GHz band standard communication may be used for communication with the outside of the object, and 2.4 GHz band standard communication may be used for communication with the inside of the object.

In addition, although the example in which docking is performed after participation in the object (i.e., after the association process) has been described in the above-described embodiment, participation in an object may be performed taking docking as an opportunity.

In addition, although the example in which the object is formed in a star type network in which the communication device100is connected to the AP20as a station (STA) has been described in the above-described embodiment, an object may be formed in a mesh network.

In addition, although the example in which the owner device is fixed has been described in the above-described embodiment, the owner device may be changed. For example, in a case in which the owner device leaves the object due to movement or the like, a new owner device may be selected from the member devices included in the object.

In addition, although the example in which the object management information is shared by all the communication devices100included in the object has been described in the above-described embodiment, the object management information may be managed by a specific communication device100such as the owner device.

In addition, although the example in which the communication roles of the communication devices100are fixed after registration at the time of participation in the object has been mainly described in the above-described embodiment, the communication roles may be changed after registration. For example, the communication roles may be changed on the basis of role information, status information, failure diagnosis information, or the like of another communication device100.

In addition, although the example in which the communication roles are determined by the member devices has been described in the above-described embodiment, the communication roles may be determined and reported by another communication device100such as the owner device. For example, a member device transmits an object participation request frame in which information specifying its own attribute or performance is stored to the owner device. The owner device determines a communication role on the basis of information indicating the attribute or performance of the communication device100stored in the received object participation request frame. Then, the owner device adds the communication role to the object management information and transmits an object participation response frame in which role information indicating the communication role is stored to the member device.

Further, steps illustrated in the flowcharts of the above embodiment include not only processes which are chronologically performed in accordance with the described order but also processes which are not necessarily chronologically performed but performed in parallel or individually as well. Further, it is needless to say that even in steps which are processed chronologically, the order can be appropriately changed depending on circumstances.

In addition, it is also possible to produce a computer program for causing hardware incorporated in communication device100to exhibit functions equivalent to those of the respective functional configurations of the aforementioned the communication device100. In addition, a storage medium that stores the computer program therein is also provided.

A wireless communication device including:

a control unit configured to control generation of a participation request frame relating to a request for participation in a group, which includes at least one wireless communication device, in which role information specifying a communication role in communication with an outside of the group is stored on a basis of group information regarding the group; and

a transmission unit configured to transmit the participation request frame.

The wireless communication device according to (1), further including:

a reception unit configured to receive a report frame in which the group information is stored from a first wireless communication device,

in which the control unit controls generation of the participation request frame on the basis of the group information stored in the report frame, and

the transmission unit transmits the participation request frame to the first wireless communication device.

The wireless communication device according to (2),

in which the role information stored in the participation request frame includes information specifying a communication role of a transmission source of the participation request frame.

The wireless communication device according to (2),

in which the reception unit receives a maintenance request frame for maintenance of the group destined for a wireless communication device participating in the group, and

the transmission unit transmits a maintenance response frame in which the role information is stored as a response to the maintenance request frame.

The wireless communication device according to (4),

in which the transmission unit transmits the maintenance request frame in accordance with reception of the maintenance request frame.

The wireless communication device according to (5),

in which the transmission unit transmits the maintenance response frame in a case in which the maintenance request frame is received from another wireless communication device after the transmission of the maintenance request frame.

The wireless communication device according to any one of (2) to (6),

in which the transmission unit and the reception unit perform communication in accordance with the communication role of another wireless communication device on behalf of the other wireless communication device on a basis of at least one of the role information or status information of the wireless communication device.

The wireless communication device according to any one of (1) to (7),

in which the communication role includes at least one of transmission or reception.

The wireless communication device according to any one of (1) to (8),

in which the communication role includes communication of data for specific use or of a specific type.

The wireless communication device according to any one of (1) to (9),

in which the role information is determined on a basis of information regarding a setting by a user or performance of the wireless communication device.

The wireless communication device according to any one of (1) to (10),

in which a method of communication between wireless communication devices participating in the group is different from a method of communication with an outside of the group.

The wireless communication device according to (11),

in which the method of communication between wireless communication devices participating in the group includes a communication method accompanying a physical connection, the wireless communication device including:

a physical connection communication unit configured to perform communication using the communication method accompanying a physical connection.

The wireless communication device according to (12),

in which the physical connection communication unit communicates a status information signal relating to the communication role of the wireless communication device using the communication method accompanying a physical connection.

A wireless communication device including:

a transmission unit configured to transmit a report frame in which group information regarding a group including at least one wireless communication device is stored; and

a reception unit configured to receive a participation request frame relating to a request for participation in the group in which role information specifying a communication role in communication with an outside of the group is stored.

The wireless communication device according to (14),

in which the transmission unit transmits a participation response frame in which the role information is stored as a response to the participation request frame.

The wireless communication device according to (15),

in which the role information stored in the participation response frame includes information specifying a communication role of a wireless communication device participating in the group.

The wireless communication device according to any one of (14) to (16),

in which the transmission unit transmits a participation report frame destined for a wireless communication device participating in the group on a basis of reception of the participation request frame.

The wireless communication device according to any one of (14) to (17),

in which the transmission unit transmits a maintenance request frame for maintenance of the group destined for a wireless communication device participating in the group, and

the reception unit receives a maintenance response frame in which the role information is stored in response to the maintenance request frame.

The wireless communication device according to (18),

in which the transmission unit transmits a maintenance report frame in which the role information is stored on a basis of reception of the maintenance response frame.

A wireless communication method using a processor, the wireless communication method including:

generating a first frame in which role information specifying a communication role in communication with an outside of a group including at least one wireless communication device set for the group is stored; and

transmitting the first frame.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST