JP7765328B2 - Controller, device, control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention generally relates to controllers, devices, control methods, and programs.

Patent Document 1 describes a remote control system using a mobile phone that enables wireless control of a heating appliance equipped with a heat source. In this remote control system, the heating appliance is started by using a password that requires operating multiple keys in sequence or by operating multiple keys simultaneously on the operating section of the mobile phone. This reduces the possibility of the heating appliance starting up even if a child touches the mobile phone or accidentally steps on the operating section of the mobile phone.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-319654

In recent years, so-called smart remote controls have become increasingly popular, allowing remote control (for example, as an add-on) of devices that receive infrared signals (infrared signals) and accept operational commands. A mobile terminal (cell phone) and smart remote control communicate wirelessly using communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). If a user pre-learns the infrared signal corresponding to a device into the smart remote control, when the user performs an operation related to the device's operation from the mobile terminal, the smart remote control will receive the signal related to the operation from the mobile terminal and transmit the infrared signal corresponding to that device to the device. This improves convenience, as users can use their mobile terminal to perform operations related to the device's operation even from a relatively long distance from the device.

On the other hand, users can remotely operate devices even from locations where they cannot directly see the device (and its surroundings). However, depending on the type of device (e.g., devices equipped with a heating source), it may not be desirable to operate the device under such circumstances.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above points, and its object is to provide a controller, device, control method, and program that can reduce the possibility of a device being remotely controlled from a location that cannot be seen.

The controller of claim 1 wirelessly transmits a transmission signal, carried by infrared light, to a device that executes a specific operation when a specific condition is met. The controller includes an operation unit that accepts operation input from outside, a transmission unit, and a reception unit. When the operation unit accepts the operation input once, the transmission unit changes from a standby state to a command state and transmits a first infrared signal as the transmission signal. The reception unit receives a response signal containing key data transmitted from the device in response to the first infrared signal. In the command state, the transmission unit transmits a second infrared signal based on the key data of the received response signal as the transmission signal. The specific condition is a condition related to reception of the first infrared signal and the second infrared signal by the device. The first infrared signal and the second infrared signal contain different data.

In the controller of claim 2, in the controller of claim 1, the specific condition is that the device receives the second infrared signal at least once within a predetermined period. The predetermined period begins from the time the device receives the first infrared signal or the time the device transmits the response signal.

In the controller according to claim 3, the transmitter of the controller according to claim 1 or 2 transmits the second infrared signal when it receives the response signal and accepts the operation input again in the command state.

In the controller according to claim 4, the transmitter of the controller according to claim 1 or 2 automatically transmits the second infrared signal when it receives the response signal in the command state.

The controller according to claim 5 is a controller according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the transmitter returns from the command state to the standby state if it fails to receive the response signal.

In the controller according to claim 6, which is a controller according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the transmitter returns from the command state to the standby state when a certain period of time has passed since the operation unit received the operation input once and changed from the standby state to the command state.

The controller according to claim 7 is a controller according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the response signal is a signal transmitted via infrared rays.

The device according to claim 8 comprises a receiver that receives the transmission signal from the controller according to any one of claims 1 to 7, a transmitter that transmits the response signal to the controller in response to receiving the first infrared signal, and a controller that executes the specific operation. The controller executes the specific operation when the specific condition is met.

The device according to claim 9 is the device according to claim 8, further comprising a gas combustion type heat source. The specific operation is an operation related to the heat source.

The control method of the invention of claim 10 is a control method for a controller that wirelessly transmits a transmission signal mediated by infrared rays to a device that executes a specific operation when a specific condition is met. The control method includes a first transmission step, a reception step, and a second transmission step. In the first transmission step, when an operation unit that accepts operation input from outside receives the operation input once, the controller changes from a standby state to a command state and transmits a first infrared signal as the transmission signal. In the reception step, a response signal containing key data transmitted from the device in response to the first infrared signal is received. In the second transmission step, in the command state, a second infrared signal based on the key data of the received response signal is transmitted as the transmission signal. The specific condition is a condition related to reception of the first infrared signal and the second infrared signal by the device. The first infrared signal and the second infrared signal contain different data.

The control method according to claim 11 is a control method for a device that communicates with a controller according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The control method includes a receiving step of receiving the transmission signal from the controller, a transmitting step of transmitting the response signal to the controller in response to receiving the first infrared signal, and a control step of executing the specific operation. In the control step, the specific operation is executed when the specific condition is met.

The program according to the invention of claim 12 is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the control method according to the invention of claim 10 or 11.

In the controller of the invention of claim 1, the second infrared signal sent to the device has data different from that of the first infrared signal and is a signal based on key data received from the device. Therefore, even if a user tries to have the smart remote control learn the controller's functions, there is a high possibility that only the first infrared signal sent in response to the first operation input will be copied to the smart remote control, which can contribute to preventing the smart remote control from learning. In particular, there is a low possibility that the smart remote control will be able to know the key data. As a result, the possibility of the device being remotely operated from an unseen location can be reduced.

In the controller of the invention of claim 2, the specific condition is that the device receives the second infrared signal at least once within a predetermined period, thereby reducing the possibility that a specific operation will be performed unintentionally by the user.

With the controller according to the invention of claim 3, the user must again input an operation into the operation unit to cause the device to perform a specific operation. This reduces the possibility that a specific operation will be performed unintentionally by the user.

In the controller according to the invention of claim 4, the second infrared signal is automatically transmitted, eliminating the need for the user to input an operation into the operation unit again. This results in improved convenience. This configuration is particularly applicable to operation units that require only a single operation input, such as commands to stop operation of equipment or adjust the set temperature.

The controller according to the invention of claim 5 returns from the command state to the standby state if it fails to receive a response signal, further reducing the possibility of the device being remotely controlled from an unseen location. Furthermore, if a specific operation is not executed, the user can easily start over by inputting the operation into the operation unit from the beginning.

The controller according to the invention of claim 6 returns from the command state to the standby state after a certain period of time has elapsed, thereby reducing the possibility that the command state will continue unintentionally by the user.

In the controller according to the invention of claim 7, the response signal is a signal transmitted via infrared light, so the receiving function on the controller side and the transmitting function on the device side can be provided more inexpensively than when other wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark) are used.

In the device according to the invention of claim 8, there is a high possibility that only the transmission signal (infrared signal) sent from the controller in response to the first operation input will be copied to the smart remote control. Therefore, even if infrared signals are received continuously from the smart remote control, the contents of those infrared signals simply contain the same data, and no specific operation will be executed. As a result, it is possible to provide a device that is less likely to be remotely controlled from an unseen location.

The device according to claim 9 reduces the possibility that a device equipped with a gas combustion heat source will be remotely operated from an unseen location.

The control method according to the invention of claim 10 provides a controller control method that reduces the possibility of the device being remotely operated from a location where it cannot be seen.

The control method according to the invention of claim 11 provides a method for controlling equipment that reduces the possibility of remote operation from an unseen location.

The program according to the invention of claim 12 can provide a function that reduces the possibility of remote control of a device from an unseen location.

1A and 1B are block diagrams of a controller and a device according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively; FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of the controller and the device. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the controller. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the device.

The controller, device, control method, and program according to the embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 2, which is referenced in the following embodiments, is a schematic diagram, and the ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the components in the figure do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

(Embodiment)
(1) Device Control System As shown in FIG. 2, a device control system 4 according to the embodiment includes a controller 1 according to the embodiment and a device 2 according to the embodiment.

(2) Device The device 2, which is one of the components of the device control system 4, will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1B and 2. FIG.

Device 2 is a device that can be remotely controlled in response to operations on controller 1 (remote control). Device 2 can be installed in a space within a facility used by a user. For example, if the facility is a residence, device 2 can be installed and used in a room within the home. The facility is not limited to a residence, and can also be a non-residential facility (such as an office building).

There are no particular restrictions on the type of device 2, as long as it can be remotely controlled by a remote control. In this embodiment, it is assumed that device 2 is a heating device, and as an example, a gas fan heater. In other words, device 2 has a built-in heat source 21 (see Figure 1B). Device 2 is equipped with a gas combustion type heat source 21. However, the heat source 21 of device 2 may also be an oil combustion type or an electric heating type.

Device 2 receives a transmission signal (wireless signal, hereinafter also referred to as "infrared signal S1") wirelessly transmitted from controller 1 in response to user operation, using infrared as the medium, and executes control in accordance with the data (control data) contained in the infrared signal S1. In particular, device 2 is configured to execute a specific operation as control in response to operation on controller 1 when a specific condition is met. The specific condition is a condition related to the reception of the first infrared signal S11 (infrared signal S1) and the second infrared signal S12 (infrared signal S1) by device 2. In other words, the specific condition is a condition that requires at least the reception of the first infrared signal S11 (infrared signal S1) and the second infrared signal S12 (infrared signal S1) by device 2.

In this embodiment, the specific operation is an operation related to the heat source 21, and is an operation that can be executed remotely using the controller 1. The operation related to the heat source 21 may correspond to, for example, starting the operation of the heat source 21 (i.e., "starting operation" of the device 2), stopping the operation of the heat source 21 (i.e., "stopping operation" of the device 2), or adjusting the set temperature.

Note that "starting operation" here refers to starting an operating state from a standby state in which device 2 is powered on and consuming standby power, for example, when a manual operation is received from the user. Also, "stopping operation" refers to returning from an operating state to a standby state, for example, when a manual operation is received from the user. Therefore, stopping operation and starting operation are different from a temporary automatic stop of operation caused by the room temperature reaching or exceeding the set temperature due to eco-driving, etc., or an automatic restart from a temporary stop of operation.

In the following, as an example, it is assumed that the specific operation is the operation of "starting operation" of device 2, which can be performed remotely using controller 1. However, the specific operation may be an operation other than the operation of "starting operation" of device 2, as long as it is an operation that can be performed remotely using controller 1, such as the operation of "stopping operation" of device 2, the operation of adjusting the set temperature, or the operation of a sleep timer. Furthermore, if the operation of starting eco operation can be performed remotely using controller 1, the specific operation may also be the operation of starting eco operation.

As shown in FIG. 1B, device 2 further includes a control unit 20, a blower fan 22, a receiving unit 23, a memory unit 24, a display unit 25, multiple operation units 26 (only one in the illustrated example), a power supply unit 27, a transmitting unit 28, and a housing 200 (see FIG. 2) that houses or holds these components. Device 2 also includes sensors for monitoring the operation of heat source 21, etc. The type of sensor is not particularly limited, but examples include a combustion sensor for checking the combustion of heat source 21, a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of heat source 21 and the temperature in the room where device 2 is installed, and a tipping sensor for detecting if device 2 has tipped over. Device 2 also includes a timer and has the function of managing a reservation schedule for starting/stopping operation of device 2 (heating device) based on the timing of the timer.

As shown in Figure 2, the housing 200 is generally in the shape of a rectangular box that is flat in the front-to-back direction. The housing 200 has an air outlet 201 at the bottom of its front face, and an air inlet on its back face. A display unit 25 and multiple operation units 26 are located on the top face of the housing 200. The back face of the housing 200 also has a connection port for connecting a gas cord for supplying fuel gas to the gas pipe of the heating source 21. A power cord extends from the back face of the housing 200, and by connecting the power plug at the end of the power cord to a power outlet, the device 2 can receive power from, for example, a commercial AC power source.

The heat source 21 has a combustor that burns a mixture of fuel gas and combustion air, and an injection nozzle that injects fuel gas toward the combustor to mix the fuel gas and combustion air. The heat source 21 also has a gas pipe that guides the fuel gas to the injection nozzle, a solenoid valve that opens and closes the gas pipe, and a proportional valve that allows the flow rate of the fuel gas to be adjusted according to the set temperature, etc. The combustor has an igniter that ignites the fuel guided to its combustion chamber, and a flame sensor that detects the flame caused by ignition and enables flame extinguishing detection. The solenoid valve, proportional valve, igniter, fire sensor, etc. of the heat source 21 are controlled by the control unit 20.

The blower fan 22 is housed within the housing 200. The blower fan 22 includes, for example, a crossflow fan and a fan motor that rotates the crossflow fan in a circumferential direction. The fan motor operates under the control of the control unit 20 and rotates the crossflow fan. As the crossflow fan rotates, outside air is drawn in through an intake port on the back of the housing 200 and flows toward the combustor of the heat source 21. A portion of the outside air drawn in through the intake port is mixed with fuel gas as combustion air and supplied to the combustion chamber of the heat source 21. The remaining air bypasses the combustor, mixes with combustion exhaust gas from the combustion chamber, and is heated before being blown out through an outlet 201 on the front of the housing 200. As a result, the device 2 provides warm air into the room in which the device 2 is installed, allowing the room temperature to approach the set temperature.

The multiple operation units 26 are user interfaces configured to accept operation inputs that command the operation of the device 2. The multiple operation units 26 are arranged, for example, on the top surface of the housing 200. It is assumed that each operation unit 26 is a push button type.

Specifically, the multiple operation units 26 include an ON button (operation button) for starting operation of the device 2, and an OFF button (stop button) for stopping operation of the device 2. The operation button and the stop button may be realized by a single button, and each time the button is pressed, a command to start operation and a command to stop operation are issued alternately.

The multiple operation units 26 also include an UP button for increasing the set temperature by 1°C, and a DOWN button for decreasing the set temperature by 1°C.

The multiple operation units 26 also include a sleep button, a good morning button, and a setting button for inputting a set time. Pressing the sleep button automatically stops operation of the device 2, for example, one hour after the button is pressed. Pressing the good morning button automatically starts operation of the device 2 after the set time has elapsed.

The multiple operation units 26 also include an eco button for performing eco operation. During normal operation, the device 2 performs continuous combustion by increasing and decreasing the combustion capacity. During eco operation, the device 2 performs an operation that repeatedly switches between combustion and stopping when the room temperature reaches or exceeds a set temperature.

The above button types are just examples and are not limited to these.

The display unit 25 is configured to present information related to the operation of the device 2 to the user. The display unit 25 is located on the top surface of the housing 200. The display unit 25 displays the current set temperature, current room temperature, set time, and operating status (whether normal operation or eco operation is in progress).

The memory unit 24 includes an electrically rewritable non-volatile semiconductor memory such as a flash memory. The memory unit 24 may be memory of the control unit 20. The memory unit 24 pre-stores information that associates multiple pieces of control data (described below) that can be received from the controller 1 with multiple control contents. The memory unit 24 also stores the set temperature, and the control unit 20 updates the set temperature in the memory unit 24 as appropriate in response to user operations. The memory unit 24 also pre-stores information related to one or more key data.

The receiver 23 receives the transmission signal (infrared signal S1) from the controller 1. The receiver 23 is located next to the transmitter 28, which is located at the upper right edge on the front of the housing 200 (see Figure 2). The receiver 23 includes an infrared receiving element that receives infrared light (infrared rays) emitted from the controller 1 and performs photoelectric conversion. The receiver 23 is electrically connected to the control unit 20. The control unit 20 extracts control data from the output signal output from the infrared receiving element and executes the control content corresponding to the control data. However, if the control unit 20 extracts "specific data" (data included in the first infrared signal S11) from the output signal, it executes processing related to the transmission of a response signal S2 (see Figure 2).

The transmitter 28 is electrically connected to the control unit 20. Under the control of the control unit 20, the transmitter 28 transmits a response signal S2 to the controller 1 in response to receiving a first infrared signal S11 from the controller 1. The transmitter 28 includes an infrared light-emitting element for sending the response signal S2 generated by the control unit 20. The infrared light-emitting element is, for example, an infrared light-emitting diode (LED). That is, as an example, the response signal S2 is a signal transmitted via infrared light. The response signal S2 has a data structure including, for example, a leader code, a custom code, a data code, and a stop bit. The infrared light-emitting element is exposed at the upper right edge on the front of the housing 200 and is held in the housing 200 so as to emit the response signal S2 (infrared signal).

The power supply unit 27 is electrically connected to the control unit 20. Under the control of the control unit 20, the power supply unit 27 generates and supplies the power required to operate the heating source 21, blower fan 22, receiver 23, display unit 25, transmitter 28, etc., using, for example, commercial AC power supplied from a power outlet via a power cord.

The control unit 20 has, for example, a computer (including a microcomputer) that includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and memory. The computer functions as the control unit 20 by executing appropriate programs.

The control unit 20 controls the operation of the heat source 21, the blower fan 22, the display unit 25, etc. based on operations on each operation unit 26. The control unit 20 also controls the operation of the heat source 21, the blower fan 22, the display unit 25, etc. based on control data contained in the infrared signal S1 from the controller 1, which is received by the receiving unit 23. However, as described above, when the control unit 20 receives a first infrared signal S11 containing "specific data" from the controller 1, it generates a response signal S2 (see FIG. 2) containing one of one or more key data stored in the memory unit 24 and transmits it from the transmitting unit 28. If multiple key data are stored in the memory unit 24, the control unit 20 may select one at random each time, or may select one in sequence. If only one key data is stored in the memory unit 24, the control unit 20 selects the same key data each time.

(3) Controller The controller 1, which is one of the components of the device control system 4, will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1A and 2. FIG.

The controller 1 is a remote control capable of remotely operating the device 2. As shown in Figure 2, the controller 1 wirelessly transmits a transmission signal (infrared signal S1) using infrared light as a medium. The infrared signal S1 has a data structure including, for example, a leader code, a custom code, a data code, and a stop bit. Note that in response to a single operation input (push operation) to the operation unit 3, the infrared signal S1 may be transmitted by repeating the reader code through the stop bit several times, but for the sake of convenience, the repeats will be considered as one infrared signal S1.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the controller 1 includes a device 100, a control unit 10, a transmission unit 11, a memory unit 12, a user interface 13, a power supply unit 14, and a reception unit 15. The controller 1 has, for example, a computer (including a microcomputer) including a processor such as a CPU and memory. The computer functions as the controller 1 by executing an appropriate program.

The housing 100 is elongated in one direction overall and is shaped like a flat, roughly rectangular box (see Figure 2). The housing 100 is sized and shaped to allow a user to easily hold it in one hand. The housing 100 is made of, for example, resin. Multiple operating members 300 (five in the illustrated example) are arranged on the front of the housing 100. In other words, the housing 100 has a structure that allows a user to easily press and operate the operating members 300 with a thumb or the like while holding the housing 100 in one hand. The housing 100 houses or holds a control unit 10, a transmission unit 11, a user interface 13, a memory unit 12, a power supply unit 14, a reception unit 15, etc.

The transmitter 11 is electrically connected to the control unit 10. Under the control of the control unit 10, the transmitter 11 transmits a transmission signal (infrared signal S1) when it receives a single operation input from the operation unit 3. However, when a specific operation unit 3 (here, the ON button 31) receives a single operation input, the transmitter 11 changes from a standby state to a command state and transmits a first infrared signal S11 as a transmission signal (infrared signal S1). Furthermore, under the control of the control unit 10, in the command state the transmitter 11 transmits a second infrared signal S12 based on the key data of the response signal S2 received from the device 2 as a transmission signal (infrared signal S1).

The transmitter 11 includes an infrared light-emitting element for transmitting the infrared signal S1 generated by the controller 10. The infrared light-emitting element is assumed to be, for example, an infrared LED. The infrared light-emitting element is exposed at one end surface of the housing 100 (the upper end surface in FIG. 2 ) and is held by the housing 100 so as to emit the infrared signal S1 from that end surface.

The user interface 13 has multiple (e.g., five) operation units 3. Each operation unit 3 accepts operation input from the outside (e.g., a user). In the example of FIGS. 1A and 2, the user interface 13 includes five operation units 3: an ON button 31, an OFF button 32, a TEMP DOWN button 33, a TEMP UP button 34, and a SLEEP button 35. Each button (31-35) includes a push-button switch and a resin operation member 300 located on the front of the switch. Each switch is mounted on a printed circuit board inside the unit 100. When the user presses any of the five operation members 300 exposed from the unit 100, the contact of the switch on the back is turned ON, and the control unit 10 detects that the corresponding operation unit 3 has received operation input from the user.

The ON button 31 is an operation button for starting operation of the device 2. The OFF button 32 is a stop button for stopping operation of the device 2. The TEMP DOWN button 33 is a button for lowering the set temperature by 1°C. The TEMP UP button 34 is a button for raising the set temperature by 1°C. The SLEEP button 35 is a button for automatically stopping operation of the device 2, for example, one hour after it is pressed. In other words, as an example, the functions of the five operation units 3 partially overlap with those of the multiple operation units 26 on the device 2.

Each time each operation unit 3 receives a single press operation (operation input), the transmitter 11 transmits one infrared signal S1. Here, one infrared signal S1 refers to, for example, a signal starting with the leader code and ending with the stop bit (including the repeat, if any).

In order to reduce the possibility of the device 2 starting to operate unintentionally if the user inadvertently steps on the controller 1 or if a child touches the controller 1, this embodiment assumes, as an example, that only the ON button 31 requires a double press operation. In other words, the device 2 will not start operating unless the user presses the ON button 31 twice in succession. For the other buttons (32-35), a single press will cause the device 2 to execute the corresponding control, but the "double press" requirement may also be applied to the other buttons. Furthermore, buttons are not limited to a "double press" requirement, and three or more presses may be required.

The memory unit 12 includes an electrically rewritable, non-volatile semiconductor memory such as a flash memory. The memory unit 12 may also be the memory of the control unit 10. The memory unit 12 pre-stores information related to the infrared signal S1 to be transmitted from the transmitter 11. That is, the memory unit 12 pre-stores information related to the corresponding control data (data code) to be included in the infrared signal S1 when each button (31-35) is pressed. Hereinafter, the control data corresponding to the ON button 31, OFF button 32, temperature DOWN button 33, temperature UP button 34, and sleep button 35 may be referred to as first control data, second control data, third control data, fourth control data, and fifth control data, respectively.

Incidentally, with regard to the first control data corresponding to the ON button 31 that requires a "double press," the first control data corresponding to the first "press" and the first control data corresponding to the second "press" are different. The storage unit 12 pre-stores the first control data corresponding to the first "press" of the ON button 31. However, the storage unit 12 does not pre-store the first control data corresponding to the second "press" of the ON button 31. As an example, the storage unit 12 pre-stores the above-mentioned "specific data" (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "ON1" data) as the first control data corresponding to the first "press" of the ON button 31. In this embodiment, as an example, the first control data corresponding to the second "press" of the ON button 31 is key data included in the response signal S2 received from the device 2. In other words, the controller 1 uses the key data selected by the device 2 (e.g., "ON2" data) as the first control data corresponding to the second "press."

Even if a button other than the ON button 31 is set that requires a "double press" (e.g., the OFF button 32), the control data corresponding to the first "press" and the control data corresponding to the second "press" can be set to be different from each other. The storage unit 12 pre-stores the second control data corresponding to the first "press" as the second control data corresponding to the OFF button 32 (e.g., "OFF1" data). However, for the second control data corresponding to the second "press," key data (e.g., "OFF2" data) included in the response signal S2 received from the device 2 can be used. In other words, in this case, the storage unit 24 of the device 2 can pre-store information related to one or more key data for the second control data. Needless to say, the "OFF1" data and "OFF2" data corresponding to the OFF button 32 are data that do not match either the "ON1" data or the "ON2" data corresponding to the ON button 31.

The power supply unit 14 is electrically connected to the control unit 10. The power supply unit 14 may include, for example, one or more primary batteries. The primary batteries are, for example, button batteries. The primary batteries are housed in the housing 100 in a replaceable manner. The power supply unit 14 uses DC power discharged from the primary batteries to generate operating power for the control unit 10 and other components, and supplies this power to the control unit 10.

The receiver 15 receives a response signal S2 containing key data transmitted from the device 2 in response to the first infrared signal S11. The receiver 23 is located, for example, next to the transmitter 11, which is located on one end surface (top end surface in FIG. 2) of the housing 100 (see FIG. 2). The response signal S2 is an infrared signal, as described above. The receiver 15 includes an infrared receiving element that receives infrared light (infrared rays) transmitted from the device 2 and performs photoelectric conversion. The receiver 15 is electrically connected to the control unit 10. The control unit 10 extracts key data ("ON2" data) from the output signal output from the infrared receiving element. When the ON button 31 is pressed again, the control unit 10 generates a second infrared signal S12 based on the key data, for example, a second infrared signal S12 containing "ON2" data.

The control unit 10 controls the transmission unit 11, user interface 13, memory unit 12, power supply unit 14, and reception unit 15. When the user presses one of the five operation units 3 (buttons 31 to 35), the control unit 10 controls the transmission unit 11 to send (transmit) an infrared signal S1 containing control data corresponding to that button (any of the first to fifth control data).

In particular, under the control of the control unit 10, when a user presses a specific operation unit 3 (here, the ON button 31), the transmission unit 11 changes from a standby state to a command state and first transmits a first infrared signal S11 that includes "ON1" data as the first control data. Under the control of the control unit 10, when the transmission unit 11 receives a response signal S2 in the command state and receives another operation input (via the same operation unit 3, i.e., the ON button 31), it transmits a second infrared signal S12. In other words, the transmission unit 11 transmits a second infrared signal S12 that includes key data ("ON2" data) as the first control data.

Under the control of the control unit 10, the transmission unit 11 receives a single operation input from the operation unit 3 (here, the ON button 31) and changes from standby state to command state, and after a certain period of time has passed, the transmission unit 11 returns from the command state to standby state. The certain period of time is assumed to be, for example, several seconds, but is not particularly limited. In other words, in order for the user to start operating the device 2, they must press the ON button 31 a second time after the first press and within the certain period of time. Note that the control unit 10 erases the key data received from the device 2 when the certain period of time has passed and the device returns from the command state to standby state, regardless of whether a second press occurs within the certain period of time.

The control unit 10 is equipped with a timer. When the control unit 10 receives a first press of the ON button 31, it transmits a first infrared signal S11 and starts timing the fixed period using the timer. In other words, the start point of the fixed period is the point at which the ON button 31 is pressed the first time. When the control unit 10 receives a second press of the ON button 31 within the fixed period, it transmits a second infrared signal S12.

Even if the control unit 10 receives a third or subsequent press of the ON button 31 within the above-mentioned fixed period, it ignores the press and does not transmit an infrared signal S1. However, the control unit 10 may transmit a second infrared signal S12 containing "ON2" data in response to each press from the third onwards (the device 2 may simply treat the third and subsequent infrared signals S1 as invalid). Furthermore, even if the control unit 10 receives a second press of a button other than the ON button 31 after receiving the first press of the ON button 31, it ignores the press and does not transmit an infrared signal S1.

Needless to say, even if the ON button 31 is pressed twice while device 2 is operating, device 2 will invalidate the infrared signal S1. Even if the OFF button 32 is pressed while device 2 is not operating, device 2 will also invalidate the infrared signal S1.

When the control unit 10 counts the end of the fixed period using the timer, it resets the timer and treats the next press of the ON button 31 as the first press.

In other words, if the ON button 31 is pressed twice consecutively within the above-mentioned fixed period, a first infrared signal S11 and a second infrared signal S12 containing different data ("ON1" data and "ON2" data), respectively, are transmitted from the transmitter 11.

Note that if the transmitter 11 fails to receive the response signal S2 under the control of the controller 10, it returns from the command state to the standby state.

In the example of FIG. 2, a first infrared signal S11 containing "ON1" data (see square wave W1) is transmitted from controller 1 in response to a first press. Also, in the example of FIG. 2, a second infrared signal S12 containing "ON2" data (see square wave W2) is transmitted from controller 1 in response to a second press. As shown in FIG. 2, this "ON2" data is based on key data (see square wave X1) contained in response signal S2 transmitted from device 2, and is included in second infrared signal S12.

The square waves W1 and W2 (square waves X1) in Figure 2 are shown schematically with only a portion of the beginning of the data code, to make it easier to intuitively understand that "ON1" data and "ON2" data are different from each other. "ON1" data (square wave W1) contains "0" data at the beginning of the data code, with the ON period (the period during which the infrared light-emitting element is on) and OFF period (the period during which the infrared light-emitting element is off) being the same length. "ON2" data (square waves W2, square waves X1) contains "1" data, with the OFF period being longer than the ON period.

In other words, when "ON1" data and "ON2" data are different, even if the corresponding control content is the same, "Start operation," the content of the data code (e.g., 8-bit data) is different. For example, if "ON2" data contains more "1" data than "ON1" data, the data length of "ON2" data may be longer.

Meanwhile, the control unit 20 of the device 2 executes a specific operation in response to remote control of the controller 1. In this embodiment, as an example, the specific operation is an operation to "start operation" of the device 2, which requires a "double press" on the controller 1. The control unit 20 executes the specific operation (operation to start operation) when a specific condition is met. The specific condition is that the device 2 receives a first infrared signal S11 and a second infrared signal S12 (containing different first control data) sent from the controller 1 when the ON button 31 is "double pressed" to command the operation to start operation on the controller 1. More specifically, the specific condition is that the device 2 receives the second infrared signal S12 at least once (here, once) within a predetermined period starting from the time when the device 2 receives the first infrared signal S11 or the time when the device 2 transmits the response signal S2. The above-mentioned predetermined period is assumed to be, for example, several seconds, but is not particularly limited thereto.

The control unit 20 of the device 2 also uses a timer to measure the above-mentioned predetermined period. When the control unit 20 of the device 2 receives a first infrared signal S11 including the first control data (e.g., "ON1" data) (or transmits a response signal S2), it begins measuring the above-mentioned predetermined period. The control unit 20 selects one of one or more key data and transmits a response signal S2 including the selected key data (e.g., "ON2" data). In this case, the control unit 20 selects key data different from the first first control data. For example, assume that "ON1" to "ON5" data are pre-stored as key data in the memory unit 24 of the device 2. When the control unit 20 receives "ON1" data as the first first control data from the controller 1, it selects one of the data other than "ON1" data ("ON2" to "ON5" data) and transmits the response signal S2 including the selected key data. Naturally, the controller 1 may always send fixed "ON1" data as the first control data the first time, and the device 2 may always send fixed "ON2" data as the key data.

When the control unit 20 receives a second infrared signal S12 containing the second first control data ("ON2" data) within the above-mentioned specified period, it determines whether the received "ON2" data matches the transmitted key data. The control unit 10 may also determine whether the second first control data is different from the first first control data. If the control unit 20 receives a third infrared signal S1 containing the first control data within the above-mentioned specified period, it treats it as invalid.

As an example, it is assumed that the above-mentioned fixed period measured using a timer by the control unit 10 of the controller 1 and the above-mentioned predetermined period measured using a timer by the control unit 20 of the device 2 are the same length (e.g., several seconds), but they do not have to be exactly the same.

When the control unit 20 of the device 2 counts the end of the above-mentioned predetermined period using the timer, it resets the timer and treats the next reception of an infrared signal S1 containing the first control data as the first reception.

In the memory unit 24 of the device 2, first control data such as "ON1," "ON2," "ON3," etc. (which can also be treated as key data) is pre-stored in association with the control content, i.e., the operation to start the device 2. When the control unit 20 of the device 2 determines that the first and second infrared signals S11 and S12 received within the above-mentioned predetermined period each contain first control data corresponding to the control content, i.e., the operation start, the device 2 starts operation.

(4) Flow of Operation of Controller A series of flow of operations of the controller 1 will now be described with reference to Fig. 3. The flowchart shown in Fig. 3 is merely one example of the flow of operations of the controller 1 according to the present invention, and the order of processes may be changed as appropriate, and processes may be added or omitted as appropriate.

The controller 1 (control unit 10) constantly monitors whether a press operation has occurred on any of the operation units 3 (step ST1). The controller 1 waits until a press operation has occurred on any of the operation units 3 (step ST1: No).

When a press operation is performed on any of the operation units 3 (step ST1: Yes), the controller 1, for example, starts timing a certain period of time at that timing (step ST2).

The controller 1 determines which button (operation unit 3) has been pressed, in particular whether the ON button 31 has been pressed (step ST3). If the controller 1 determines that a button other than the ON button 31 has been pressed (step ST3: No), it transmits an infrared signal S1 containing control data corresponding to that button (step ST4). The controller 1 then resets the timer (step ST12) and returns to a standby state where it waits for a pressing operation to occur again.

On the other hand, when the controller 1 determines that the ON button 31 has been pressed (step ST3: Yes), it switches from the standby state to the command state and transmits, for example, "ON1" data as the first control data in the first infrared signal S11 (step ST5).

The controller 1 then immediately receives a response signal S2 containing key data (e.g., "ON2" data) from the device 2 (step ST6).

Next, in the command state, the controller 1 monitors whether a second press operation has occurred (step ST7). If a certain period of time has elapsed (step ST8: Yes) without a second press operation occurring (step ST7: No), the controller 1 resets the count of the certain period of time (step ST12) and returns from the command state to a standby state where it waits for a press operation to occur again. In other words, the controller 1 remains in the command state and waits for a second press operation to occur until the certain period of time has elapsed (step ST8: No).

If a second pressing operation occurs before the end of the certain period (step ST7: Yes), the controller 1 determines which button (operation unit 3) was pressed, in particular whether the ON button 31 was pressed again (step ST9).

When the controller 1 determines that the ON button 31 has been pressed again (step ST9: Yes), it transmits the "ON2" data (key data) received in step ST6 as first control data in a second infrared signal S12 (step ST11). The controller 1 then resets the timer for the fixed period at the time of transmitting the second infrared signal S12 (or waits until the end of the fixed period and then resets the timer) (step ST12), and returns from the command state to a standby state in which it waits for another pressing operation to occur.

The controller 1 also returns from the command state to the standby state if it fails to receive the response signal S2. For example, the controller 1 determines that it has failed to receive the response signal S2 if the ON button 31 is pressed a second time before it receives the response signal S2, or if a certain period of time ends before it receives the response signal S2. If it fails to receive the response signal S2, the controller 1 may notify the user by turning on an indicator lamp (not shown) provided on the device 100.

If the controller 1 determines that a button other than the ON button 31 has been pressed before the end of the fixed period (step ST9: No), it does not transmit the infrared signal S1 corresponding to that button. In other words, the controller 1 invalidates the pressing operation (step ST10), resets the timer for the fixed period (step ST12), and returns to a standby state where it waits for a pressing operation to occur.

The controller 1 may set an invalid period (e.g., several seconds) after the ON button 31 has been pressed twice, during which no infrared signal S1 is transmitted and the button is treated as invalid, regardless of which button is pressed.

It is preferable that the controller 1 erases (clears) information related to the "ON2" data (key data) received in step ST6, for example, when it returns from the command state to the standby state.

(5) Flow of Device Operation A series of flow of operations of the device 2 will be described below with reference to Figure 4. The flowchart shown in Figure 4 is merely one example of the flow of operations of the device 2 according to the present invention, and the order of processes may be changed as appropriate, and processes may be added or omitted as appropriate. Note that the operation of the device 2 in response to the infrared signal S1 received from the controller 1 will be described here, and the operation in response to an operation on the operation unit 26 of the device 2 will not be described.

Device 2 (its control unit 20) is powered on and consumes standby power while in standby mode, monitoring whether or not infrared signal S1 has been received (step ST21). Device 2 waits until infrared signal S1 is received (step ST21: No).

When device 2 receives infrared signal S1 (step ST21: Yes), it starts timing a predetermined period at that timing (step ST22). Device 2 then extracts control data from infrared signal S1 (step ST23).

Device 2 determines which control content the extracted control data corresponds to, in particular whether it is first control data corresponding to starting operation of device 2, which requires a "double press" (step ST24). If device 2 determines that the control data is other than first control data (step ST24: No), it executes the control content corresponding to that control data (step ST25). Device 2 then resets the timer for the specified period (step ST34) and returns to a standby state where it waits for reception of infrared signal S1 again.

On the other hand, if device 2 determines that the extracted control data is first control data (step ST24: Yes), it temporarily stores the first control data (here, "ON1") in memory unit 24 (step ST26). Furthermore, device 2 selects key data (here, "ON2") different from the received "ON1" from one or more key data pre-stored in memory unit 24, and transmits a response signal S2 including the selected key data (step ST27).

Then, device 2 waits to receive the next infrared signal S1 (step ST28). If the predetermined period ends (step ST29: Yes) without receiving the second infrared signal S1 (step ST28: No), device 2 resets the timer for the predetermined period (step ST34) and returns to a standby state where it waits for the next infrared signal S1. In other words, device 2 waits to receive the second infrared signal S1 until the predetermined period ends (step ST29: No).

If the second infrared signal S1 is received before the end of the specified period (step ST28: Yes), the device 2 extracts control data from the infrared signal S1 (step ST30).

Device 2 determines which control content the extracted control data corresponds to, in particular, whether it is first control data corresponding to the start of operation of device 2 (step ST31).

When device 2 determines that the extracted control data is the first control data (step ST31: Yes), it then determines whether the second first control data matches the key data (here, "ON2") transmitted in step ST27 (step ST32). If the second first control data matches the transmitted key data (step ST32: Yes), device 2 starts operation, i.e., starts operating heat source 21 and blower fan 22 (step ST33). Device 2 then resets the timer for the specified period (step ST34) and returns to a standby state where it waits for reception of infrared signal S1 again.

If device 2 determines that the control data received before the end of the specified period is control data other than the first control data (step ST31: No), it does not execute the control content corresponding to that control data. That is, device 2 invalidates the control data (step ST35), resets the timer for the specified period (step ST34), and returns to a standby state where it waits for the receipt of infrared signal S1 again. In other words, if device 2 receives control data other than the first control data after receiving the first control data, it discards the command from controller 1.

Furthermore, if the second first control data does not match the transmitted key data (step ST32: No), the device 2 does not execute the control content corresponding to that control data. That is, the device 2 does not start operation, invalidates the control data (step ST35), resets the predetermined time period (step ST34), and returns to a standby state where it waits for the reception of an infrared signal S1 again. In other words, if the device 2 receives first control data for the second time that differs from the previously transmitted key data, it discards the command from the controller 1.

After starting operation, device 2 may set an invalid period (e.g., a few seconds) during which any control data received will be invalidated and the corresponding control content will not be executed.

(6) Effects In the controller 1 according to this embodiment, when a "double press" is received within a certain period of time on an operation unit 3 (e.g., the ON button 31) that requires a "double press," the data of the second infrared signal S12 transmitted the second time differs from the data of the first infrared signal S11 transmitted the first time. Furthermore, the second infrared signal S12 is a signal based on key data received from the device 2. Therefore, even if a user attempts to have the smart remote control learn the functions of the controller 1, it is highly likely that only the first infrared signal S11 containing the first control data (e.g., "ON1" data) transmitted from the controller 1 in response to the first operation input will be copied to the smart remote control. In other words, it is unlikely that the smart remote control was manufactured with the expectation that different data ("ON1" and "ON2") will be transmitted between the first and second presses of the same button, even if the same button is pressed consecutively. As a result, even if the user taps the corresponding icon twice on the screen of the mobile device with the same sensation as pressing the ON button 31 twice on the controller 1, the smart remote control simply transmits an infrared signal containing the "ON1" data twice in succession to the device 2. Then, the device 2 determines in step ST32 of FIG. 4 that the second first control data does not match the previously transmitted key data, and operation is not started. In particular, the possibility that the smart remote control can learn the key data is low. This contributes to preventing the smart remote control from learning, thereby reducing the possibility that the device 2 is remotely controlled from a location where it cannot be seen.

Furthermore, in the controller 1 according to this embodiment, the specific condition is that the device 2 receives the second infrared signal S12 at least once within a predetermined period of time, thereby reducing the possibility that a specific operation (e.g., starting operation) will be performed unintentionally by the user.

Furthermore, with the controller 1 according to this embodiment, two operation inputs to the operation unit 3 (e.g., the ON button 31) within a certain period are required to cause the device 2 to perform a specific operation (e.g., an operation to start driving). This reduces the possibility that a specific operation (e.g., an operation to start driving) will be performed unintentionally by the user. Furthermore, compared to when three or more operation inputs are required, a decrease in user convenience can be suppressed.

Furthermore, if the controller 1 according to this embodiment fails to receive a response signal S2 from the device 2, it returns from the command state to the standby state, further reducing the possibility of the device 2 being remotely controlled from a location where it cannot be seen. Furthermore, if a specific operation (for example, an operation to start operation) is not performed, the user can easily start over by inputting an operation into the operation unit 3 (for example, the ON button 31) from the beginning.

In addition, the controller 1 according to this embodiment returns from the command state to the standby state after a certain period of time has passed, reducing the possibility that the command state will continue unintentionally by the user.

Furthermore, in the controller 1 according to this embodiment, the response signal S2 is a signal transmitted via infrared light. Therefore, it is possible to provide a cheaper receiver 15 in the controller 1 and transmitter 28 in the device 2 than when other wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark) are used.

In the device 2 according to this embodiment, there is a high possibility that only the transmission signal (infrared signal S1) sent from the controller 1 in response to the first operation input will be copied to the smart remote control. Therefore, even if infrared signals are received consecutively from the smart remote control, the contents of those infrared signals simply contain the same data, and a specific operation (for example, an operation to start operation) will not be executed. In other words, even if the device 2 receives two infrared signals from the smart remote control, in step ST32 of FIG. 4, it will determine that the second first control data does not match the key data sent previously, and will not start operation. As a result, the possibility of the device 2 being remotely controlled from an unseen location can be reduced.

In particular, in the case of a device 2 equipped with a gas combustion heat source 21 as in this embodiment, unlike home appliances such as television receivers, air conditioners, and air purifiers, it may not be desirable for the device 2 to be remotely controlled from a location where the user cannot directly see the device 2 (for example, another room or while away from home). In this regard, the device 2 according to this embodiment can reduce the possibility of remote control from a location that cannot be seen.

(7) Modifications The above-described embodiments are merely a part of various embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, the embodiments can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present invention can be achieved.

Functions similar to those of the controller 1 according to the above embodiment may be embodied in a control method for the controller 1, a computer program, or a non-transitory recording medium on which a computer program is recorded, etc.

One control method according to the present invention is a control method in which a controller 1 wirelessly transmits a transmission signal (infrared signal S1) via infrared light to an apparatus 2 that executes a specific operation (e.g., an operation to start operation) when a specific condition is met. The control method includes a first transmission step, a reception step, and a second transmission step. In the first transmission step, when an operation input is received once at an operation unit 3 that receives operation input from outside, the controller 1 changes from a standby state to a command state and transmits a first infrared signal S11 as a transmission signal (infrared signal S1). In the reception step, a response signal S2 containing key data transmitted from the apparatus 2 in response to the first infrared signal S11 is received. In the second transmission step, in the command state, a second infrared signal S12 based on the key data of the received response signal S2 is transmitted as a transmission signal (infrared signal S1). The specific condition is a condition related to reception of the first infrared signal S11 and the second infrared signal S12 by the apparatus 2. The first infrared signal S11 and the second infrared signal S12 contain different data. One program according to the present invention is a program for causing one or more processors to execute this control method.

Furthermore, functions similar to those of device 2 according to the above embodiment may be embodied in a control method for device 2, a computer program, or a non-transitory recording medium on which a computer program is recorded, etc.

Another control method according to the present invention is a method for controlling a device 2 that communicates with a controller 1. The control method includes a receiving step of receiving a transmission signal (infrared signal S1) from the controller 1, a transmitting step of transmitting a response signal S2 to the controller 1 in response to receiving a first infrared signal S11, and a control step of executing a specific operation. In the control step, the specific operation is executed when a specific condition is met. Another program according to the present invention is a program for causing one or more processors to execute this control method.

In the above embodiment, the response signal S2 is a wireless signal transmitted via infrared light, similar to the infrared signal S1. However, as long as the device 2 can transmit key data wirelessly to the controller 1, the response signal S2 may also be a wireless signal conforming to other wireless communication standards, such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

In the above embodiment, the controller 1 transmits the key data ("ON2" data) received from the device 2 as first control data in the second infrared signal S12. However, the device 2 does not necessarily need to transmit the first control data ("ON2" data) itself as key data. For example, if correspondence information such as "Key 1" data corresponding to "ON1" data, "Key 2" data corresponding to "ON2" data, "Key 3" data corresponding to "ON3" data, etc. is stored in advance in the memory unit 12 of the controller 1 and the memory unit 24 of the device 2, the device 2 may transmit a response signal S2 including "Key 2" data as key data. The controller 1 may refer to the memory unit 12, select the "ON2" data corresponding to "Key 2," and transmit it in the second infrared signal S12.

In the above embodiment, the transmitter 11 of the controller 1 transmits the second infrared signal S12 when the ON button 31 is pressed in the command state. However, the transmitter 11 may also transmit the second infrared signal S12 automatically when it receives a response signal S2 in the command state. In this case, the user is saved the trouble of having to operate the ON button 31 again. As a result, convenience is improved.

In particular, if the transmitter 11 automatically transmits the second infrared signal S12 upon receiving the response signal S2, this can be easily applied to the other buttons 32-35, which only require a single press. In other words, in this case, the specific operation could be an operation such as "stopping operation" of the device 2, adjusting the set temperature, or automatically stopping operation after one hour.

In the above embodiment, the controller 1 transmits a first infrared signal S11 containing the same "ON1" data every time the ON button 31 is pressed for the first time. However, the storage unit 12 of the controller 1 may pre-store three or more different types of data (e.g., five types of data, "ON1" to "ON5") as the first control data. The controller 1 may then randomly select one of "ON1" to "ON5" as the first control data to be transmitted each time. Alternatively, the controller 1 may select one of "ON1" to "ON5" in a specific order (e.g., cyclically) for example. In other words, the first control data of the first infrared signal S11 may be different each time. In this case, the storage unit 24 of the device 2 may also pre-store five types of data, "ON1" to "ON5." When the device 2 receives a first infrared signal S11 whose first control data may be different each time, it selects and transmits key data other than the first control data.

Also, three or more presses (e.g., three presses) may be applied to the operation unit 3 (e.g., the ON button 31). Naturally, the device 2 will also be aware of the control content that requires "three presses." In this case, it is sufficient that at least one of the three sets of control data, from the second press onwards, contains control data based on key data. For example, the three sets of control data may be, in order, "ON1," "ON2 (key data)," and "ON1," or "ON1," "ON2 (key data)," and "ON2 (key data)," or "ON1," "ON1," and "ON2 (key data)." In the case of the order "ON1," "ON1," and "ON2 (key data)," the device 2 may transmit a response signal S2 upon receiving the first set of control data, or may transmit a response signal S2 upon receiving the second set of control data, and then receive control data based on key data the third time.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Controller 11 Transmitter 15 Receiver 2 Device 20 Control unit 21 Heat source 23 Receiver 28 Transmitter 3 Operation unit S1 Infrared signal (transmitted signal)
S11 First infrared signal S12 Second infrared signal S2 Response signal

Claims (10)

A controller that wirelessly transmits a transmission signal using infrared light to a device that executes a specific operation when a specific condition is met,
an operation unit that receives operation input from outside;
a transmitting unit that, when the operation unit receives the operation input once, changes from a standby state to a command state and transmits a first infrared signal as the transmission signal;
a receiving unit that receives a response signal including key data transmitted from the device in response to the first infrared signal,
the transmitting unit, in the command state, transmits, as the transmission signal, a second infrared signal based on the key data of the received response signal;
the specific condition is a condition regarding reception of the first infrared signal and the second infrared signal by the device;
the first infrared signal and the second infrared signal contain different data;
the transmitting unit, in the command state, transmits the second infrared signal when it receives the response signal and accepts the operation input again.
controller. the specific condition is that the device receives the second infrared signal at least once within a predetermined period starting from the time when the device receives the first infrared signal or the time when the device transmits the response signal;
The controller of claim 1 . If the transmission unit fails to receive the response signal, the transmission unit returns from the command state to the standby state.
3. The controller according to claim 1 or 2. the transmission unit receives the operation input once at the operation unit and changes from the standby state to the command state, and when a certain period of time has passed since the transmission unit changed from the command state to the standby state, the transmission unit returns from the command state to the standby state.
The controller according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The response signal is a signal mediated by infrared rays.
The controller according to any one of claims 1 to 4. a receiving unit that receives the transmission signal from the controller according to any one of claims 1 to 5;
a transmitter that transmits the response signal to the controller in response to receiving the first infrared signal;
a control unit that executes the specific operation,
The control unit executes the specific operation when the specific condition is satisfied.
device. Further comprising a gas-fired heating source;
The specific operation is an operation related to the heat source.
7. The device of claim 6. A control method for a controller that wirelessly transmits a transmission signal using infrared light to a device that executes a specific operation when a specific condition is met, comprising:
a first transmission step of switching from a standby state to a command state when an operation unit that receives an operation input from outside receives the operation input once, and transmitting a first infrared signal as the transmission signal;
a receiving step of receiving a response signal including key data transmitted from the device in response to the first infrared signal;
a second transmitting step;
In the second transmitting step, in the command state, a second infrared signal based on the key data of the received response signal is transmitted as the transmission signal;
the specific condition is a condition regarding reception of the first infrared signal and the second infrared signal by the device;
the first infrared signal and the second infrared signal contain different data;
In the second transmitting step, when the response signal is received and the operation input is accepted again in the command state, the second infrared signal is transmitted.
Control method. A method for controlling a device that communicates with the controller according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising:
receiving the transmission signal from the controller;
a transmitting step of transmitting the response signal to the controller in response to receiving the first infrared signal;
a control step of executing the specific operation,
In the control step, the specific operation is executed when the specific condition is satisfied.
Control method. A program for causing one or more processors to execute the control method according to claim 8 or 9.