WO2008013036A1

WO2008013036A1 - Node device, recording medium containing information processing program, content distribution method, and content distribution system

Info

Publication number: WO2008013036A1
Application number: PCT/JP2007/063448
Authority: WO
Inventors: Tomohiro Suzuki
Original assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
Priority date: 2006-07-26
Filing date: 2007-07-05
Publication date: 2008-01-31
Also published as: JP2008033406A

Abstract

Provided are node devices (1, 31). The node device (1) participates in a content distribution storage system (S1) in which a plurality of first content data are distributed into a plurality of node devices (1) for storage and upon request from a node device (1), another node device (1) transmits the first content data stored in itself via communication means. The node device (31) of the distribution source participates in a tree-shape distribution system (S2) in which a plurality of node devices (32) are connected into a tree shape via communication means by forming a plurality of hierarchical levels, and second content data distributed from the node device (31) of the distribution source is successively transferred from the node device (31) of an upper hierarchical level to the node device (31) of a lower hierarchical level. The first content data is acquired from the node device (1) containing the first content data and the acquired first content data is distributed as the second content data to the other node devices (32) in the tree-shape distribution system (S2).

Description

Specification

Technical field of node device, recording medium recording information processing program, content distribution method and content distribution system

[0001] The present invention relates to a technical field such as a Peer to Peer (P2P) type content distribution system and method including a plurality of node devices connected to each other via communication means.

Background art

In recent years, with the spread of broadband, content distribution services such as VOD (video on demand) have been performed. Peer-to-peer and other technologies are attracting attention as new forms that change to the server client method, which is the mainstream form of current content distribution! As a peer-to-peer information communication system, a tree-type network format (see, for example, Patent Document 1) is known.

Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2006-33514

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0003] As a tree-type content distribution service, a mode is conceivable in which a broadcast station device that first distributes content and plays the role of a broadcast station stores the content in a database owned by the device itself. . Then, the broadcast station apparatus prepares and distributes the content to be distributed from the database according to the program of the broadcast program. At this time, if the content to be distributed increases, the database held by the broadcast station apparatus also increases. Also, in addition to distributing content as a broadcasting station, when the content of the database is transmitted to other node devices, communication concentrates on the broadcasting station device and each communication may be delayed.

[0004] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a content distribution system, method, and the like that further reduce the load on the content broadcasting station device and the load on the communication path of the network system. Means for solving the problem

[0005] In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 1 is a distributed content storage system formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein a plurality of first content data is a plurality of the nodes. Content that is distributed and stored in a device, and one of the node devices stores the first content data that is stored by itself in response to a request from the other node device via communication means A tree-type distribution system that participates in a distributed storage system and is formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein the plurality of node devices form a plurality of hierarchies. However, the second content data that is connected in a tree shape via the communication means and also distributed as the node device power of the distribution source is sequentially transferred from the node device in the upper layer to the node device in the lower layer. Participating in the tree-type distribution system configured to be sent, the distribution-source node device from the node device storing the first content data in the content distribution storage system. 1st content data acquisition means for acquiring 1 content data, and 2nd content for distributing the acquired first content data as the second content data to the other node devices in the all-in-one distribution system And a data distribution means.

[0006] According to this, since the distribution-source node device does not need to store the second content data to be distributed in a database or the like in advance, a large amount of content data is stored in the database in advance, and the node device Concentration of communication is prevented. Therefore, the burden on the node device itself and the communication path, that is, the burden on the entire content distribution system is reduced. In addition, the distribution source node device functioning in this manner does not need to increase the second content data storage database to be distributed, and can prevent the distribution content database from being costly. Further, if the distribution source node device has such a configuration, a normal node device can function as a broadcast station device without separately providing a broadcast station device in the tree-type distribution system.

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 2 is the node device according to claim 1, wherein the first content data acquisition means has been transmitted by a streaming method. The first content data is acquired, and the second content data distribution means is a streamer. The node device is characterized in that the second content data is distributed to the other node devices by a streaming method.

[0008] According to this, by transmitting and receiving data by the streaming method, the node device transmits the second content data corresponding to the first content data even while the first content data is being received. can do. Therefore, the second content data can be transmitted in the tree-type distribution system without waiting until all the data is received, and the data can be distributed quickly.

[0009] In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 3 is the node device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the node device further receives the received first content data. A node device characterized by having a recording medium for storing.

[0010] According to this, since the node device can store the first content data, when the second content data corresponding to the same first content data is distributed again, the first content data is acquired again. Can reduce the burden on the communication path that does not need to start

[0011] In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 4 is the node device according to claim 3, wherein the node device further acquires the first content data. And a storage determining means for determining whether or not the first content data is stored in the recording medium, and the recording medium is newly added when the storage determining means determines that the first content data is stored. A node device that stores data.

[0012] According to this, the node device can determine whether or not the first content data is newly recorded according to the necessity of the first content data, the remaining storage capacity in the recording medium of the node device, and the like. . Therefore, the received first content data can be saved as needed without imposing a burden on the node equipment.

[0013] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 5 is the node device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the node device further includes the first device on the recording medium. When content data is newly stored, public information indicating that the first content data is stored in the other node device is displayed as the location of the first content data in the distributed content storage system. Public information transmission to the managing node device Means, request receiving means for receiving transmission request information requesting transmission of the first content data from another node device, and the request receiving means receiving the transmission request information from another node device. And a first content data transmitting means for transmitting the first content data stored in the recording medium according to the transmission request information.

[0014] According to this, by publishing to the other node device that the distribution source node device stores the first content data, the other node device also has the distribution source node device's power. The first content data can be acquired. Therefore, in addition to the node device (for example, the content node) that originally stored the first content node, the other node device can acquire the distribution source node device power first content data. In addition to improving the convenience of the user, the burden of communication for transmitting the first content data to the other node device in the node device that originally stored the first content node is reduced.

[0015] In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 6 is the node device according to claim 5, wherein the node device further stores the first content data in the recording medium. A public determination unit that determines whether or not to transmit the public information when newly stored, and the public information transmission unit determines that the public determination unit transmits the public information; A node device that transmits the public information.

[0016] According to this, the node device can determine whether or not to transmit public information according to the necessity of copying the first content data in the content distributed storage system, the communication status of the node device, and the like. For this reason, when it is determined that the public information is not transmitted, the other node apparatus power does not receive the transmission request information, so that it is possible to prevent the communication burden on the node apparatus from increasing.

[0017] In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 7 is the node device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the node device further includes the second content. Search information for searching the location of the node device storing the first content data corresponding to the second content data to be distributed by the data distribution means is used as the first content in the distributed content storage system. Management to manage data location Search means for transmitting to the original node device; and

Request transmission means for transmitting transmission request information for requesting transmission of the first content data to the node device corresponding to the node information when node information indicating the location of the content data is received. The first content data acquisition means acquires the first content data from the node device that is the transmission destination of the transmission request information.

[0018] According to this, when the node device transmits the search information, the location of the first content data (such as the IP address of another node device storing the first content data) can be known, and the other Node device power The first content data can be acquired. Therefore, the burden of storing in the node device that does not need to always store the location of the first content data is reduced.

[0019] In order to solve the above-described problem, an invention according to claim 8 is the node device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the node device further acquires the acquired first device. 1 The content data is converted into a format for distribution in the tree distribution system and converted into the second content data, and the second content data distribution means is converted by the conversion means. The node device is characterized in that the second content data is distributed to the other node devices.

[0020] According to this, the node device can distribute the second content data in a format suitable for the tree-type distribution system by converting the data, and the data format is unknown. It is possible to prevent a heavy burden on the node device.

[0021] In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 9 is the node device according to claim 8, wherein the conversion means includes a video, an image, or an image included in the first content data. The node device is characterized in that at least one of the voices is degraded to obtain the second content data.

[0022] According to this, in the tree-type distribution system, the node device converts the second content data having a lower quality than the regular first content data, and in the content distributed storage system, Genuine first content data can be stored. Then, each node device of the tree-type distribution system can watch and listen to the second content data. The viewer who has entered can obtain the original first content data again in the distributed content storage system.

[0023] In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention according to claim 10 is the node device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the converting means partially converts the video included in the first content data. Selecting a part of the video included in the first content data to be thinned out, reducing the size of the video or image included in the first content data, or the video included in the first content data or A node device that performs at least one of degrading the image quality of an image and degrading the sound quality of audio included in the first content data.

[0024] According to this, in addition to the above points, the capacity of data transmitted / received by the downstream node device by specifically performing such conversion on the first content data and distributing it as the second content data Can be reduced, and the burden on the node device can be reduced.

[0025] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, an invention according to claim 11 is the node device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first content data acquisition unit takes the invention. The content determination means further determines whether the obtained first content data corresponds to the content data distributed in the tree-type distribution system, and the content determination means is the first content data acquisition means. When it is determined that the first content data acquired by the above corresponds to the content data distributed in the tree-type distribution system, the second content data distribution means converts the acquired first content data into the second content data. As described above, the node device is distributed to the other node devices in the tree-type distribution system.

According to this, when a normal node device functions as a node device that is a distribution source of the tree-type distribution system, the content determination means uses the acquired first content data as the node device (user ), It is possible to determine whether it has been acquired for distribution to the tree-type distribution system. At this time, the node device can distribute only the content data acquired for distribution in the tree-type distribution system as the second content data. [0027] In order to solve the above problem, an invention according to claim 12 is an information processing program that causes a computer to function as the node device according to any one of claims 1 to 11. A recording medium recorded so as to be readable by the computer.

[0028] In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 13 is a content distributed storage system formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein a plurality of first content data is a plurality of the node devices. Content distribution in which one of the node devices stores the first content data stored by itself in response to a request from the other node device via a communication means. A tree-type distribution system that is a node device that participates in a storage system and is formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein the plurality of node devices form a plurality of hierarchies. The second content data, which is connected in a tree shape via communication means and also distributed as the node device of the distribution source, is sequentially transferred from the node device in the upper layer to the node device in the lower layer. A content distribution method in the distribution source node device participating in the tree-type distribution system configured as described above, the node device power storing the first content data in the distributed content storage system A step of acquiring first content data, and a step of distributing the acquired first content data as the second content data to the other node devices in the tree-type distribution system. This is a tend delivery method.

[0029] In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 14 is a distributed content storage system formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein a plurality of first content data is a plurality of the node devices. Content distribution in which one of the node devices stores the first content data stored by itself in response to a request from the other node device via a communication means. A storage system and a tree-type distribution system formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein the plurality of node devices are connected in a tree shape via communication means while forming a plurality of hierarchies. The second content data distributed from the node device is sequentially transferred from the node device in the upper layer to the node device in the lower layer. Beam, a content delivery system comprising, participating in the distributed storage system, Ru said node instrumentation The distribution-source node device participating in the tree-type distribution system receives the first content data from the node device storing the first content data in the content distributed storage system. First content data acquisition means for acquiring; and second content data distribution means for distributing the acquired first content data as the second content data to the other node devices in the tree-type distribution system. Is a content distribution system characterized by

The invention's effect

[0030] According to the present invention, the distribution source node device has the first content data receiving means and the second content data transmission means in particular, so that the load on the node device itself and the communication path, that is, the content distribution The burden on the entire system is reduced.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a connection mode of each node device in the content distribution system according to the present embodiment.

[Fig.2] A diagram explaining ID space and content ID by DHT and the root node for this.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of how an ID space and a routing table are created by a DHT in the distributed content storage system according to the present embodiment.

[Fig. 4] (A) An example of a level 1 table. (B) An example of a level 2 table. (C) An example of a level 3 table. (D) An example of a completed routing table.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the ID space and content search method and acquisition method by DHT.

FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a method for disclosing the ID space by DHT and the stored first content data.

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an ID space and node device participation method by DHT.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an outline of a tree-type distribution system according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram (1) for explaining the outline of the content distribution system according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram (2) for explaining the outline of the content distribution system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a table showing broadcast station setting information.

12] A diagram showing a schematic configuration example of the node device 1. FIG.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a contact node introduction server 25.

14] A diagram showing a schematic configuration example of the connection destination introduction server 35.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a content input server 26.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a process (1) in the node device 1;

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a process (2) in the node device 1.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a process (3) in the node device 1.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a process (4) in the node device 1.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a process of participating in a distributed content storage system in node device 1.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an input content reception process in the node device 1.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing content search processing in the node device 1.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing broadcast content data acquisition processing in the node device 1.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing processing in the contact node introduction server 25.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing processing in the connection destination introduction server 35.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing processing in the content input server 26.

圆 27] A diagram showing a schematic configuration example of the broadcasting station device 31.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing processing in the broadcast station apparatus 31.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a modified form of processing in node device 1 shown in FIG. 18.

1 node device

8 network

9 Overlay network

11 CPU

12 Main storage 13 Hard disk device

14 Peripheral device control chip

15 Video chip

16 Built-in display

17 sound source chip

18 Built-in speaker

19 Infrared port

21 Network interface

22 System No.

23 Remote control for user input

24 routers

S content 酉 S system

S1 distributed content storage system

S2 tree distribution system

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, the best embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below is an embodiment when the present invention is applied to a content distribution system including a distributed content storage system using DHT and a tree-type distribution system. In the present invention, the content data transmitted and received in the distributed content storage system is the first content data, and the content data transmitted and received in the tree distribution system is the second content data. The inventions such as the content distribution system of the present invention are not limited to the embodiments described below, and are appropriately modified within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention.

[0034] [1. Outline of content distribution system]

First, referring to FIG. 1, the outline configuration of the content distribution system S will be described.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a connection mode of each node device in the content distribution system S according to the present embodiment. [0036] As shown in the lower frame 101 of FIG. 1, IX (Internet eXchange) 3, ISP (Internet Service Provider) 4, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) line provider (device) 5, FTTH (Fiber To The A network (real-world network) 8 such as the Internet is constructed by Home) line provider (device) 6 and communication line (for example, a telephone line or optical cable) 7.

[0037] The content distribution system S is configured to include a plurality of node devices la, lb, lc---lx, ly, 1ζ ... connected to each other via such a network 8. It has become a peer-to-peer network system. Each node device la, lb, lc---lx, ly, 1ζ ··· is assigned with a unique serial number and IP (Internet Protocol) address as information indicating the node device. The serial number and IP address are not duplicated among multiple node devices 1. In the following description, when any one of the node devices la, lb, lc---lx, ly, 1ζ ··· is shown, it may be referred to as a node device 1 for convenience.

[0038] [2. Content distributed storage system configuration, etc.]

Next, the configuration of the content distributed storage system S 1 included in the content distribution system S will be described.

[0039] [2. 1. Overview of DHT]

Hereinafter, an algorithm using a distributed hash table (hereinafter referred to as DHT (Distributed Hash Table)) according to the content distributed storage system S1 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0040] In the content distribution system S described above, when the node devices 1 exchange information with each other, the IP addresses as the node information of each other must be known.

[0041] For example, in a system that shares content with each other, it is simple for each node device 1 participating in the network 8 to know the IP addresses of all the node devices 1 participating in the network 8. If the number of terminals is tens of thousands and hundreds of thousands, it is not realistic to remember the IP addresses of all the node devices 1. In addition, when the power of any node device is turned ON or OFF, each node device 1 The IP address of the arbitrary node device is frequently updated, which makes operation difficult.

[0042] Therefore, in one node device 1, only the minimum necessary IP address of the node device 1 among all the node devices 1 participating in the network 8 is memorized (stored). Do not know the IP address! /, (Remember me! /, Na! /,) For node device 1! / For each node device 1, transfer information to each other and send it to each other. When you get it, the cocoon system is devised.

As an example of such a system, an overlay network 9 as shown in the upper frame 100 of FIG. 1 is constructed by an algorithm using DHT. In other words, this overlay network 9 means a network that forms a virtual link formed using the existing network 8.

[0044] In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the overlay network 9 is constructed by an algorithm using DHT, and the node device 1 arranged on the overlay network 9 participates in the content distributed storage system S1 ( In other words, it is called node device 1 participating in overlay network 9). Note that participation in the distributed content storage system S1 is performed by sending a participation request to an arbitrary node device 1 that has already participated.

[0045] The node ID of each node device 1 participating in the distributed content storage system S1 is given a unique number for each node device. This number must have enough bits to accommodate the maximum number of node devices. For example, if a ¹²⁸ -bit number is used, 2 ¹²⁸ = 340 X 10 ³⁶ node devices can be operated.

[0046] More specifically, the node ID of each node device 1 is hashed with a common hash function (hash algorithm), which is a unique value for each node device, such as the IP address or serial number of each node device. The hash value obtained in this way is distributed evenly in one ID space. In this way, the node ID (hashed) obtained by a common hash function has a very low probability of having the same value if the IP address or serial number is different. Since the hash function is publicly known, detailed explanation is omitted. In this embodiment, a node ID is a value obtained by hashing an IP address (global IP address) with a common hash function.

[0047] The plurality of node devices 1 participating in the content distributed storage system S1 include The first content data (for example, data of movies, music, etc.) distributed from the node device 1 to the other node devices 1 is distributed and stored (saved). A unique (unique) number (hereinafter referred to as “content ID”) is assigned to each content data.

[0048] Then, the content ID has the same length as the node ID (for example, 128 bits). For example, a keyword such as a content name (content title) or content summary information (summary) It is hashed by the same hash function as when obtaining the above node ID (that is, placed in the same ID space as the hash value of the IP address of node device 1) and is closest to the hash value (for example, the higher digit is more Node device 1 that has a node ID that matches the node ID of the first content data, or the link information (content holding node IP address) to the node device that holds the content data. Hold. Thus, the first content data can be distributed on the content distributed storage system S 1 without any bias. It should be noted that even if the first content data is different, it is assumed that the same keyword (for example, the name of the content) will be used. In this case, the same hash value is used. For example, the keyword to be used may be a combination of content name and copyright information (for example, performer name, director name, original author name, singer name, composer name, or songwriter name).

[0049] Thus, since the node ID and the content ID assigned to each node device 1 and each first content data are generated by a common hash function, the same ring-shaped configuration as shown in FIG. It can be thought of as scattered and existing in the ID space. The figure shows a node ID and content ID assigned in 32 bits. In the figure, black dots indicate node IDs, black diamonds indicate content IDs, and IDs increase counterclockwise.

[0050] Next, which node device 1 stores which first content data is stored is determined under a certain rule. In the present embodiment, the rule is that “a node device that manages content data having a certain content ID is the node device 1 having a near-node ID for the content ID”. Here, the definition of “close” does not exceed the content ID, and the power that makes the difference between the content ID and the node ID the smallest. When the management of the first content data is allocated to each node device 1, it is only necessary to be consistent. In the example shown in the figure, based on this definition, the content IDa is managed by the node device 1 having the node IDa, the content IDb is managed by the node device 1 having the node IDb, and the content IDc is the node IDc. Is managed by a node device 1 having

[0051] Here, "management" does not mean that the first content data is stored (retained), but "which node device 1 stores the first content data?" I know. " That is, in FIG. 2, the node device 1 having the node IDa knows in which node device 1 the first content data having the content IDa is stored, and the node device 1 and the node IDc having the node IDb. Similarly, the node device 1 having the same knows in which node device 1 the first content data having the content IDb and the first content data having the content IDc are stored. Thus, a node device that knows in which node device 1 certain first content data is stored is called a root node of the first content data. That is, the node device 1 having the node IDa is the root node of the first content data having the content IDa, and the node device 1 having the node IDb is the root node of the first content data having the content IDb. Thus, the node device 1 having the node IDc is the root node of the first content data having the content IDc. Also, the node device 1 that holds (saves) the first content data is called a content node.

[0052] [2. 2. Create Routing Table]

Here, an example of a method for creating a routing table used in DHT is described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a state in which a routing table is created by the DHT.

First, an ID space as shown in FIG. 3A is divided into several areas. Actually, about 16 divisions are often used, but in order to simplify the explanation, here, it is divided into four and the ID is expressed as a quaternary number with a bit length of 16 bits. An example of creating a routing table for the node device 1N with the node ID of the node device 1N being “10230210” will be described.

[0055] (Level 1 routing) First, if the ID space is divided into four areas, each area is represented by a quaternary number with different maximum digits. Four areas “0XXXXXXX” “1XXXXXXX” “2XXXXXXX” “3XXXXXXX” The same shall apply hereinafter.) Since the node ID of the node device 1N itself is “10230210”, the node device 1N exists in the lower left “1XXXXXXX” area in the figure. Then, the node device 1N appropriately selects the node device 1 existing in an area other than the area where the node device exists (that is, the “1XXXXXXX” area), and stores the IP address of the node ID in the level 1 table. . Figure 4 (A) is an example of a level 1 table. The second column shows the node device 1N itself, so there is no need to store the IP address.

[0056] (Level 2 routing)

Next, among the areas divided into four by the above routing as shown in Fig. 3 (B), the area where I exist is further divided into four, and four areas `` 10XXXXXX '', `` 11XXXXXX '', `` 1 2XXXXXX '', `` 13XXXXXX ". Then, similarly to the above, the node device 1 existing in an area other than the area where it exists is appropriately selected, and the IP address of the node ID is stored in the level 2 table. Figure 4 (B) is an example of a level 2 table. The first column shows the node device 1N itself, so there is no need to memorize the IP address!

[0057] (Level 3 routing)

Furthermore, among the areas divided into four by the above routing as shown in Fig. 3 (C), the area that exists is further divided into four, and four areas `` 100XXXXX '', `` 101XXXXX '', `` 102XXXXX '', `` 103XXXXX '' ". Then, similarly to the above, the node device 1 existing in an area other than its own area is appropriately selected, and the IP address of the node ID is stored in the level 1 table. Figure 4 (C) shows an example of a level 3 table. The third column shows the node device 1N itself, so there is no need to store the IP address. The second and fourth columns are blank because there are no node devices in the area.

In this way, all the 16-bit IDs can be covered by creating the routing table as shown in FIG. As the level goes up, white space becomes more noticeable in the table.

[0059] A routing table created according to the method described above is stored in all the node devices 1. Will create and own each.

[0060] [2. 3. Search method and acquisition method of first content data]

Next, an example of a search method and an acquisition method of the node device 1 that is the storage source of the first content data will be described with reference to FIG. This is performed by a first content data acquisition unit, a search unit, a request transmission unit, a request reception unit, and a first content data transmission unit in the node device 1 described later.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a state where the node device 1 storing the first content data is searched by the DHT and a state where the first content data is acquired.

Here, the node device 1-1 having the node ID “12003030” (hereinafter, the node device that searches for the first content data and requests reception of the first content data is referred to as “request node”.) However, the procedure for searching for the first content data having the content ID “31330012” will be described.

[0063] The request node refers to the level 1 table of the routing table held by itself, and searches for the location of the content to the node device having the node ID in the same area as the content ID “31330012”. Information (hereinafter, “search information” of the present invention (search information for searching a node device storing the desired first content data) is referred to as “query”;). That is, since the content ID “31330012” is an area of “3XXXXXXX”, the node device 1 belonging to the area of “3XXXXXXX” knows the IP address (that is, in the routing table held by itself). A query is sent to node equipment 1-2, which stores the IP address. Thus, the query includes a content ID, which is unique identification information corresponding to the content.

According to the example shown in FIG. 5, since the IP address of the node device 12 whose node ID is “30100000” is stored in the routing table of the request node, the request node has the node ID “ A query is transmitted to the node device 12 which is “30100000”.

Next, the node device 1-2 that has received the query refers to the level 2 table of the routing table held by the node device 1-2 itself, and belongs to the area “31XXXXXX”. The query is forwarded to node device 1-3 (node ID “3101200 1”) that knows the IP address. [0066] In this way, the transfer of the query proceeds in the manner of adapting the digit of the content ID in ascending order, and finally the node device 1-5 that manages the first content data, that is, the root node (this (The node device of the management source that manages the location of the first content data in the distributed content storage system of the invention) is reached, and the root node itself receives the content ID “31330012” included in the query. Search the content index information (to be described later) that is managed and return node information such as the IP address of node device 1 that owns the first content data to the request node. ing.

In this way, the request node (node device 11) is the root node (node device 15) force, the location of the first content data with the content ID “31330012”, that is, the content node storing the data You will know by receiving the IP address of (Node Equipment 1-6). The request node transmits transmission request information requesting transmission of the first content data to the content node searched in this way, and acquires (downloads) the first content data from the content node. become.

[0068] Further, when the content node receives the transmission request information for requesting transmission of the request node power first content data and receives the transmission request information from the request node, the content node receives the transmission request information according to the transmission request information. 1 Send content data.

[0069] Although not shown, the root node that has received the query transmitted by the request node distributes the first content data to the request node to the content node that stores the corresponding first content data. Information for instructing the user may be transmitted. In this case, the content node can obtain desired first content data from the content node that does not transmit the transmission request information.

[0070] [2. 4. How to publish the first content data]

In the content distributed storage system S1 having such a configuration, for example, a certain node device (referred to as the node device 1-6 described above) sends new first content data to another node device 1 on the content distributed storage system S1. The method of publishing so that the location of the site is powerful is described with reference to FIG. This is performed by public information transmitting means in the node device 1 described later. This node device 1-6 becomes a content node for storing the first content data. As shown in FIG. 6, first, new first content data is sent from the content input server 26 that manages the type and number of first content data input to the content distributed storage system S1 to the node device 1— It is thrown into 6.

[0072] The node device 1-6 that has become the content node in this way obtains the content ID; 31330012 from the content title, etc., and goes to the node device having the same node ID as the content ID (this node device actually exists). At this point in time, there is no power at all.) Public information indicating that the own node device stores the first content data (hereinafter, the public information of the present invention is referred to as a content public message) is transmitted. This content public message is also transferred one after another according to the routing table in the same manner as the above query, and up to the node device 1 having the closest node ID to the content ID included in the content public message. When the node device 1 determines that there is no other destination node device, the node device 1 itself determines that the node device 1 itself should become the root node of the first content data. The auxiliary information (attribute information such as title and genre, copyright information such as director name) and the IP address of the content node are stored as content index information.

[0073] Note that the number of content nodes is not limited to one, and there may be another node device 1 (hereinafter also referred to as a replica node) that stores the same first content data and has been made public. Also in this case, if the second and subsequent replica nodes transmit the public message in the same manner, the same root node manages the location of the first content data.

[0074] Furthermore, the node device power in the middle of the route to the root node may store the content index information stored by the root node as a cache. A node device that holds this content index information as a cache is called a cache node. This enables the cache node to return the IP address of the content node to the request node that inquired about the location of the content when the query is transferred to the cache node sooner before the root node force S query is received. Is possible. It should be noted that the number of cache nodes and whether or not all of the node devices 1 to which the public message is transferred are set as cache nodes can be freely determined by the content distributed storage system S1. [0075] When the first content data stored in the content node is deleted in accordance with an instruction from the content input server 26, etc., a content deletion message is transmitted in the same manner and transferred to the root node one after another. The root node or the cache node that has received the content deletion message deletes various information of the node device 1 that has transmitted the content deletion message from the content nodes of the first content data from the content index information.

[0076] [2. 5. Participation in Distributed Content Storage System]

Next, a method for participating in the distributed content storage system S1 of the node device will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7, the content distribution storage system S 1 includes a contact node introduction server 25. As shown in the lower frame 101 of FIG. 1, when a node device 1 communicating with another node device 1 via a network participates in the distributed content storage system S 1, it first contacts A contact node introduction request message is transmitted to the node introduction server 25. The contact node introduction server 25 that has received the contact node introduction request message is a node device (hereinafter referred to as a contact node) that first communicates with the node device 1 (hereinafter referred to as a participating node) that also participates in the system S1. Contact node information such as IP address is returned to the participating node.

[0078] Next, the participating node transmits a participation message to the contact node based on the received contact node information, and the contact node that has received the participation message sends the participation node the first level of the routing table (Fig. 4). The table information in which the node ID and the IP address of level 1 in (D) are associated is transmitted.

[0079] Next, the contact node obtains a node ID (corresponding to the white circle in the upper right in Fig. 7) obtained from the IP address of the participating node, and so on, toward the node device 1 having the node ID closest to the content ID. Forward the participation message. Information indicating that the next stage (second stage) table information should be transmitted to the participating node in the stage information (first stage) transmitted by the contact node is added to this participation message. This participation message is also transferred one after another according to the routing table in the same manner as the above query, and is transferred to the node device 1 having the node ID closest to the node ID included in the participation message. At that point, the transfer is stopped.

[0080] Further, each node device 1 that has received the transferred participation message sends a predetermined level of table information (level in FIG. 4D) to the participating node according to the instructions included in the participation message. 2 and subsequent stages). When transferring this participation message, the table information of the next level (for example, the third level) of the table information (for example, the second level) transmitted by the own node device 1 is sent to the participating node. Add information to the effect that it should be sent.

In this way, the participating node can receive the table information of each level of the routing table from each node device that has received the participation message, and can create and store the routing table.

[0082] [Configuration of tree distribution system, etc.]

Next, with reference to FIG. 8, the configuration and the like of the all-in-one distribution system S2 included in the content distribution system S according to the present embodiment will be described.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a connection mode of each device in the tree distribution system S2 according to the present embodiment. In the example of FIG. 8, a communication connection mode between devices in the tree distribution system S2 (for example, a connection relationship between which device and which device has established communication) is shown. In the present embodiment, the second content data (hereinafter also referred to as broadcast content data) distributed from a broadcast station apparatus (representing a distribution source node apparatus in the present invention) 31 is a buffer memory provided in the node apparatus 32a. The second content data is played back while being temporarily stored. Further, the second content data is transmitted to another node device 32c or the like while temporarily storing the second content data in a buffer memory provided in the node device 32a. The distribution of the second content data in the broadcasting station device 31 is performed by the second content data distribution means.

[0084] As shown in Fig. 8, this tree-type distribution system S2 receives a broadcast station apparatus 31 that is a distribution source of second content data such as streaming data, and content distributed from the broadcast station apparatus 31. It consists of multiple node devices (peers) 32a, 32b, 32c, 32m, and is a peer-to-peer (P2P) network system.

[0085] Also, the tree-type distribution system S2 includes a plurality of node devices with the broadcasting station device 31 as the highest level. 32a to 32m form a plurality of hierarchies and are connected in a tree shape via a plurality of communication paths 33a, 33b, 33c,..., 33m based on each IP address.

Then, the second content data distributed by the broadcasting station device 31 is sequentially transferred from the higher layer node devices 32a and 32b to the lower layer node devices 32c to 32m. In the following description, when any one of the node devices 32a to 32m is shown, it may be called the node device 32 for convenience.

[0087] It should be noted that these distribution server 1 and the plurality of node devices 32a to 32m are similar to those described in the content distribution system S with reference to Fig. 1, such as IX (Internet eXchange) 3, ISP (Internet Service). Provider) 4, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) line provider (equipment) 5, FT TH (Fiber To The Home) line provider (equipment) 6, and communication line (for example, telephone line or optical cable) 7 Is physically connected to a network such as the Internet, and the broadcast station device 31 and each of the node devices 32a to 32m are assigned unique node IDs and IP addresses as described above. The

[0088] Further, the connection destination introduction server 35 sets the node device 32 connected to the uppermost layer for each provider information indicating which network connection service provider the node device 32 is connected to the network. Device information is stored. Therefore, for example, when a new node device 32i desires to participate in the tree-type distribution system S2, that is, when it desires to distribute the second content data distributed by the broadcast station device 31, it is connected to itself. In order to be informed of the node device 32 that is a candidate for the upper layer node device 32 to be transmitted, a connection destination candidate request Sc is transmitted to the connection destination introduction server 35 as shown by a one-dot chain line in the figure. Then, based on the provider information indicating the network connection service provider to which the node device 32 is connected, the connection destination introduction server 35 becomes another node device 32 of a higher hierarchy to which the node device 32 should be connected. The node device 32d is selected, and the device information (including the IP address) of the node device 32d is transmitted as a connection destination candidate notification to the node device 32 as shown by a two-dot chain line in the figure.

Then, based on the device information included in the connection destination candidate notification (Nk {}), the node device 32i is connected to the higher-level node device 32 (in accordance with the example shown in FIG. As shown by the dotted line in the figure, connection request information Sr including its own device information is sent to device 32d). If the node device 32d receives the request and determines that the second content data should be transferred to the node device 32i, the connection between the node device 32i and the node device 32d via the communication path 33i is performed. You will be able to establish a connection.

[0090] [4. Outline of Content Distribution System of Present Embodiment]

Next, an outline and the like of the content distribution system S according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 9 to FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the content distribution system S of the present embodiment includes a distributed content storage system S1 and a tree-type distribution system S2. It has a contact node introduction server 25, a connection destination introduction server 35 of the tree distribution system S2, and a content input server 26 that operates in both systems S1 and S2.

[0091] In the content distribution system S provided with the content distribution storage system S1 and the tree distribution system S2, the node device 1 functions as the broadcast station device 31 in the tree distribution system S 2 to distribute and store the content. Node device 1 (content node) power storing the first content data in system S1 Acquires the first content data, and uses the acquired first content data as the second content data in the tree distribution system S2. It is distributed to the node device 32. This is performed by a first content data acquisition unit and a second content data distribution unit in the node device 1 described later.

[0092] Therefore, the node device 1 functioning as a broadcasting station acquires the first content data corresponding to the second content data at a necessary timing without having to always store each second content data to be distributed, If unnecessary, it can be deleted after distribution. Therefore, the node device 1 does not need to prepare a recording medium with a large capacity for storing the second content data. As described above, even the normal node device 1 is a broadcasting station device 31. As a function.

[0093] When the node device 1 obtains the desired first content data, it will be described with reference to FIG. 5, and also as shown in FIG. 9, the node device 1 converts the desired first content data into the desired first content data. A query is sent to node device 1 (root node) having the node ID closest to the corresponding content ID. The query is transferred and received by the root node of the first content data. The root node transmits the location information (IP address, etc.) of the content node storing the first content data to the node device 1. When the node device 1 knows the location of the content node, the node device 1 transmits transmission request information for requesting the content node. The content node that has received the transmission request information transmits the first content data to the node device 1.

[0094] Content node power The node device 1 that has received the first content data will be described with reference to FIG. 8, and as shown in FIG. 9, the first content data is used as second content data in a tree-type distribution. Delivered to the other node devices 32a and 32b in the system S2. The node devices 32a and 32b reproduce the second content data, and the second content received by the downstream node devices 32c, 32d, 32e, and 32f according to the distribution destination (topology) determined in the tree. Transfer data individually. Each node device 32 that has received the second content data operates in the same manner, and the node devices 32g, 32h, 32i, 32j, 32k, 321, 32m that are the most downstream and have no transmission destination play the second content data. Erase data without transferring it.

At this time, the node device 1 can acquire the first content data transmitted by the streaming method, and can distribute the second content data to the other node devices 32 by the streaming method. In this case, the node device 1 can perform partial power transmission in which the second content data corresponding to the first content data is received even while the first content data is being received. Therefore, the second content data can be transmitted in the tree distribution system without waiting until all the data is received, and the second content data can be quickly distributed.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 10, the broadcast station apparatus 31 stores a broadcast program file (see FIG. 10 (A)) that lists which second content data is broadcast in what time and in what order. Received from the content input server 26 (see FIG. 10B). In this embodiment, the broadcast program file is a list of the broadcast time, the content ID of the second content data for which the broadcast order is determined, and the acquisition timing of the second content data. .

[0097] The broadcast station apparatus 31 follows the broadcast program file and starts the broadcast at 8 o'clock. For the second content data of the tenth ID: 10000001, a query for acquiring the corresponding first content data in the content distributed storage system S1 is transmitted at the designated 7:50, and the first content data is acquired. Subsequently, for the second content data of the content ID: 10000002 to be broadcast next, a query for acquiring the corresponding first content data in the content distributed storage system S1 is transmitted to acquire the first content data. Furthermore, for the second content data with the next content ID: 10000003, when the second content data with the first content ID: 10000001 has been broadcast, the corresponding first content data. The content distribution storage system S 1 sends a query to acquire the first content data. In this way, the broadcast station apparatus 31 can sequentially acquire the first content data corresponding to the second content data to be broadcast in the content distributed storage system S1, and delete unnecessary ones after the broadcast.

[0098] On the other hand, the broadcast station apparatus 31 starts broadcasting the content whose broadcast time is determined as the second content data using the first content data with the acquired content ID: 10000001 as the broadcast time of 8:00. In addition, when the order is determined, such as the second content data of content ID: 10000002 after the second content data of content ID: 10000001, the acquired content ID: 10000002 Broadcasting starts with the first content data as the second content data.

Note that the broadcast program file shown in FIG. 10 (A) shows the acquisition timing of each second content data, and the acquisition timing is not shown in the broadcast program file. In the node device 1, the acquisition timing may be set in time for the content distribution time.

[0100] (Storage and release of the acquired first content data)

The broadcast station apparatus 31 can delete the acquired first content data, but can also store it in a recording medium. It is also possible to determine whether or not to save the first content data acquired by the storage determining means on the recording medium. Whether or not to save the first content data can be determined according to the user's desire to save the node device 1, which is the broadcast station device 31, and the degree of free space in the hard disk of the broadcast station device 31. The standard is special It is not limited to.

[0101] In addition, the broadcast station apparatus 31 can also function as a content node by transmitting a content release message using the first content data stored in the recording medium by the public information transmission unit, and the public determination unit can It can also be determined whether or not it is capable of sending public messages. Whether or not to transmit the content release message can be determined according to the necessity of copying the first content data in the content distribution storage system S1, the communication status of the node device 1 itself, the usage rate of the hard disk, and the like.

[0102] Whether or not to store in a recording medium, conditions for transmitting a public message, and the like can be determined according to broadcast station setting information transmitted from the content input server 26 as shown in FIG. 11, for example. In FIG. 11, the presence or absence of storage on a recording medium is described as HD (hard disk) storage. In addition, the content disclosure condition states that the usage rate of none or HD (node disc) is less than **%. If there is no content publishing condition, it will not be released if there is no HD storage, and will be released if HD storage is available. Content disclosure requirements If the usage rate of HD is less than **%, it will be released if the usage rate of the hard disk is within that range and HD storage is available.

In FIG. 11, on the assumption that there are a plurality of broadcast station apparatuses 31 (channels), whether or not to save in a recording medium for each channel, that is, for each broadcast station apparatus 31 is displayed as a public message. The conditions for transmission are determined, but the present invention is not limited to this, and may be determined for each content data to be broadcast. These may be determined according to the policy of the broadcasting station apparatus 31 itself.

[0104] (The first content data power is also converted to the second content data)

In addition, the broadcasting station device 31 can distribute the first content data as the second content data as it is. The acquired first content data is sent to the single distribution system S 2. Thus, the second content data can be distributed after being converted into a format for distribution and used as the second content data. By converting the data, it is possible to transmit the data in a format suitable for the all-in-one distribution system S2, and it is possible to prevent the node device 32 from being burdened by the lack of the data format. [0105] As one of the conversion methods, at least one of video, image, and audio included in the first content data can be degraded into second content data. In this case, in the tree-type distribution system S2, the second content data which is converted and lower in quality than the regular first content data is distributed for content introduction, and in the content distribution storage system S1, the regular first content data is distributed. 1 Content data can be saved. Then, a viewer who likes the second content data by viewing each node device 32 of the tree distribution system S2 can acquire the regular first content data again in the content distributed storage system S1. .

[0106] As a specific conversion method, the video included in the first content data is selected by selecting a part of the video included in the first content data, which partially thins out the video included in the first content data. Or, at least one of reducing the size of the image, deteriorating the image quality of the video or image included in the first content data, or degrading the sound quality of the audio included in the first content data. Can do.

[0107] When the video included in the first content data is partially thinned out, it may be thinned out so that one minute of video is deleted every few minutes in the video, or the content point like a digest There is no limitation on the specific method for thinning out parts other than the part that becomes. When selecting a part of the video contained in the first content data, you can select only the first 5 minutes, select the first and last 3 minutes, etc., and select which part of the video The length is not particularly limited. When the size of the video or image included in the first content data is reduced, it is set to 70% of the size of the regular video or image, or 80% to the display unit such as a display. There is no particular limitation on how much the image can be reduced and what is the standard. When degrading the image quality of the video or image included in the first content data, the entire image or image or the edge of the image or image can be mosaicked, and how much the image quality is degraded is particularly important. It is not limited. When the sound quality of the sound included in the first content data is deteriorated, the sound quality can be roughened, noise can be mixed, etc., and how much the sound quality is deteriorated is not particularly limited. These data conversions usually reduce the data capacity. [0108] Note that the conversion method is not limited to the above-described one, and the capacity of the data is increased, for example, conversion is performed by adding data such as video as a privilege to the first content data to obtain the second content data. Such conversion may be performed.

[0109] Further, when distributing the second content data, the downstream node device 32 can reproduce the second content data at an appropriate speed, at least at a speed higher than the reproduction speed, that is, the transmission speed. In addition, it is preferable to distribute the second content data. In addition, additional information (including rate control information described later) indicating the conditions should be added to the second content data so that the second content data is transferred with the transmission speed adjusted so as to meet the predetermined conditions. Preferred.

[0110] The ability to convert data and how to convert the data can be determined according to broadcast station setting information transmitted from the content input server 26 as shown in FIG. 11, for example. In Fig. 11, only the description of sound quality degradation, screen size reduction, only 1 minute is shown, but in reality, how much sound quality is degraded, how much screen size is reduced, Includes information on which part of the video, the power to select one minute. In FIG. 11, on the premise that there are a plurality of broadcasting station apparatuses 31 (channels), the presence / absence of conversion of content data and how to convert it are determined for each channel, that is, for each broadcasting station apparatus 31. Power It is not limited to this, and may be determined for each content data to be broadcast. These may be determined according to the policy of the broadcasting station apparatus 31 itself.

[0111] (Node device to be a broadcasting station device)

In the present embodiment, the node device 1 that functions as the broadcast station device 31 is determined by the connection destination introduction server 35. As a specific method, a node device 1 that functions as the broadcasting station device 31 is recruited at a site or the like on the network 8, and the node device 1 that can function as the broadcasting station device 31 registers. In the connection destination introduction server 35, when a new broadcast station device 31 is required because a new channel is provided or a broadcast station device 31 capable of broadcasting in the same manner as an existing channel is desired. Next, the connection destination introduction server 35 selects the required number of node devices 1 from the registered node devices 1 and transmits a broadcast station start request message to the node device 1 to connect the node device 1 to the broadcast station device. Function as device 31. The node device 1 that has received the broadcast station start request message acquires the broadcast program file from the content input server 26, starts broadcasting as the broadcast station device 31, and the connection destination introduction server 35 includes the node device 1 Registers to function as a broadcasting station device 31.

[0112] On the other hand, in the connection destination introduction server 35, because there are few viewers (downstream node devices 32) of a predetermined channel, the channel itself is stopped or the flow is integrated into the broadcasting station device 31 of the other same channel. When the broadcast station device 31 that functions and becomes unnecessary is necessary, the connection destination introduction server 35 sends a broadcast station stop request message to the node device 1 as the broadcast station device 31. Thus, the function of the broadcast station device 31 of the node device 1 is stopped. The node device 1 that has received the broadcast station stop request message deletes the broadcast program file it owns, stops broadcasting, and the connection destination introduction server 35 has the node device 1 connected to the broadcast station device. Register that 31 functions have been stopped (cancel broadcast station registration). Before transmitting the broadcast station stop request message, the connection destination introduction server 35 sends another broadcast station device 31 or a node device downstream thereof to each node device 32 connected downstream of the node device 1. The message may be transmitted so as to be connected to 32, and the node device 32 downstream of the broadcast station device 31 may be lost and the broadcast station stop message may be transmitted.

[0113] Regarding the node device 1 registered to function as the broadcasting station device 31 at the above site or the like, when the connection destination introduction server 35 transmits a broadcasting station start message, the message cannot be transmitted. In the case where the registered address is wrong or the node device 1 is not connected to the network, the connection destination introduction server 35 may delete the registration to the site or the like.

[0114] In this way, by determining the node device 1 for which the connection destination introduction server 35 functions as a broadcast station device, the broadcast manager having the connection destination introduction server 35 has the number of broadcast station devices according to demand. 31 can be prepared to manage the distribution of the second content data in the tree distribution system S2.

[0115] (Timing when transmitting second content data, etc.)

Further, the node device 1 as the broadcast station device 31 acquires the broadcast program file from the content input server 26 as described above, and broadcasts along the broadcast program file ( To deliver the second content data), the second content data determined by the content input server 26 may be transmitted in that order or timing. For this reason, the node device 1 does not increase the burden that it is not necessary to determine the order and timing of distributing the second content data!]. In the present embodiment, the power described in the form using the broadcast program file is not limited to this. For example, in accordance with the timing when the node device 1 as the broadcasting station device 31 distributes the second content data, the content input server 26 “next, distribute the content with content ID: ********” t ヽぅ An instruction is sent to the node device 1, and at the timing when this instruction is received, the node device 1 sends a query about the content in the content distributed storage system S1, obtains the first content data, and obtains a tree type Can be distributed to distribution system S2.

[0116] [5. Configuration of each device constituting content distribution system]

With reference to FIG. 12 to FIG. 15, the configurations of the node devices 1 and 32, the contact node introduction server 25, the connection destination introduction server 35, and the content input server 26 that constitute the content distribution system S will be described.

[0117] [5. 1. Configuration of node equipment, etc.]

First, with reference to FIG. 12, the configuration and function of node devices 1 and 32 (both are the same and will be referred to as node device 1 in the following description) will be described. The configuration of each node device 1 is the same. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of the node device 1.

As shown in FIG. 12, each node device 1 includes a CPU 11 having an arithmetic function, a ring buffer memory 121 that temporarily stores received content data, an operating system 122, a stream control program 123, and content data. Screen control program 124 that decodes encoded video data (video information), etc. (data decompression, decoding, etc.), topology control program 125, encoded audio data (audio information) included in content data A main storage device 12 having a music decoder 126 and a broadcast content control program 127 for decoding (data decompression and decoding, etc.) and a ROM for storing work RAM, various data and programs, and the like. 1 Content data, content index information, DHT and program above A hard disk drive 13 as a recording medium such as HD force also configured to store saved (stored) a The peripheral device control chip 14 that controls connection with peripheral devices such as the hard disk device 13 and the input unit and transmits information, and the video that is subjected to predetermined drawing processing on the decoded video data and the like and output as a video signal Chip 15, built-in display 16 such as CRT or liquid crystal display that displays video based on the video signal output from the video chip 15, and D (Digital) / A ( The sound source chip 17 that amplifies the signal after conversion by an amplifier and outputs it, the built-in speaker 18 that outputs the audio signal output from the sound source chip 17 as a sound wave, and the external remote controller 23 isosqueously input Infrared port as an input unit that accepts instructions from the user and gives instruction signals to the CPU 11 according to the instructions (others (For example, a keyboard, mouse, or operation panel can be used.) 19 and a network interface 21 for controlling communication of information with other node devices 1 through the network 8 and the router 24. The CPU 11, the main storage device 12, the peripheral device control chip 14, the video chip 15, the sound source chip 17, and the network interface 21 are connected to each other via a system bus 22. The network interface 21 is connected to an external router 24 and the like via the network 8. The infrared port 19 receives an instruction signal from the user-input remote controller 23 and transmits the signal to the peripheral device control chip 14.

[0119] Then, the CPU 11 performs overall control of the node device 1 by executing various programs stored in the main storage device 12 and the like. In response to the instruction signal, content data registration processing or the like is performed. The node device 1 functions as a broadcasting station device 31, a node device that transmits (transfers) information, a node device that receives information, and the like according to the program to be executed. In addition, the CPU 11 of the node device 1 includes the first content data acquisition unit, the second content data distribution unit, the storage determination unit, the public information transmission unit, the request reception unit (content request), and the first content data transmission according to the present invention. It functions as means, disclosure determination means, search means (query), request transmission means (content request), conversion means, and content determination means.

[0120] [5. 2. Configuration of contact node introduction server]

Next, referring to FIG. 13, the configuration and functions of the contact node introduction server 25 explain. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of the contact node introduction server 25.

[0121] As shown in FIG. 13, the contact node introduction server 25 includes a CPU 251 having an arithmetic function, a terminal management program 2521, an operating system 2522, a contact node introduction program 2523, etc., and a working RAM, various data and programs. ROM isometric to store the main memory 252 configured, HD is hard to store and store the terminal management database and programs, etc. Hard disk device 253 configured, hard disk device 253 and input unit The peripheral device control chip 254 that controls the connection with peripheral devices such as a peripheral device and the video signal to display images such as characters and figures necessary for GUI (graphical user interface) of the operating system 2522 Video chip 255 to be output, and CRT and liquid crystal to display video based on the video signal output from the video chip 255 A display 2561 such as a display, and an instruction signal according to the instruction is given to the CPU 251 via the peripheral device control chip 254 and the keyboard 2562 and the mouse 2563 as an input unit, and the router 2 through the network 8 59, etc., and a network interface 257 for controlling communication of information with other node devices 1, and a CPU 251, a main storage device 252, a peripheral device control chip 254, a video chip 255 and the network interface 257 are connected to each other via a system bus 258. The video chip 255 is connected to an external display 2561, and the peripheral device control chip 254 is connected to an external keyboard 2562 and a mouse 25 63. The network interface 257 is connected to an external router 259 or the like via the network 8.

[0122] Then, the CPU 251 executes the various programs stored in the main storage device 252 and the like, thereby performing overall control of the entire contact node introduction server 25. Specifically, the CPU 251 can change the conditions in the terminal management program or the policy in the contact node introduction program in response to an instruction signal from the input unit such as the keyboard 2562 or the mouse 2563. . Further, the CPU 251 determines the contact node using the contact node introduction program 2523 in response to the contact node introduction request message from the participating node device 1 received through the network 8 and the network interface 257, and determines the location information of the contact node. (IP address etc.) for contact node information Reply as information.

[0123] [5. 3. Connection destination server configuration, etc.]

Next, the configuration and function of the connection destination introduction server 35 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of the connection destination introduction server 35.

As shown in FIG. 14, the connection destination introduction server 35 includes a CPU 351 having a calculation function, a terminal management program 3521, an operating system 3522, a topology control program 35 23, a connection destination introduction program 3524, and the like. Main memory 352 configured with RAM, ROM for storing various data and programs, and hard disk device configured with HD for storing (storing) topology database, terminal management database, programs, etc. 353 And the peripheral device control chip 354 that controls the connection with peripheral devices such as the hard disk device 353 and the input unit and transmits information, and images such as characters and figures necessary for the GUI (graphical user interface) of the operating system 3522 A video chip 355 that outputs a video signal to display a video signal, and a video output from the video chip 355. Display 3561 that displays video based on the audio signal, and keyboard 3562 as an input unit that accepts instructions from the user and gives instruction signals to the CPU 351 via the peripheral device control chip 354. And a mouse 3563 and a network interface 357 for controlling communication of information with the other node device 1 etc. via the network 8 via the router 359 etc., and the CPU 351, the main storage device 352, peripheral device control chip 354, video chip 355 and network interface 357 are connected to each other via a system bus 358. The video chip 355 is connected to an external display 3561, and the peripheral device control chip 354 is connected to an external keyboard 3562 and a mouse 3563. The network interface 357 is connected to an external router 359 or the like via the network 8!

Then, the CPU 351 executes overall control of the entire connection destination introduction server 35 by executing various programs stored in the main storage device 352 and the like. Specifically, the CCU 351 changes the conditions in the terminal management program or changes the policy in the topology control program or the connection destination introduction program in response to an instruction signal from the input unit such as the keyboard 3562 or the mouse 3563. be able to. CPU351 is also In response to connection destination candidate request Sc from node device 32 received through network 8 or network interface 357, connection destination candidates are determined using topology control program 3523 and connection destination introduction program 3524, and connection destination candidate notification Nk Reply {}.

[0126] [5. 4. Content Input Server Configuration]

Next, the configuration and function of the content input server 26 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of the content input server 26.

As shown in FIG. 15, the content input server 26 includes a CPU 261 having a calculation function, a catalog management program 2621, an operating system 2622, a content control program 2623, and the like, and has working RAM, various data and programs. Main storage device 262 also configured to store ROM, etc., HD isotropic storage device for storing and storing broadcast program files, catalog lists, contents and programs, etc., hard disk device In order to display images such as characters and figures necessary for the peripheral device control chip 264 that controls the connection with peripheral devices such as H.263 and input units and transmits information, and the GUI (graphical user interface) of the operating system 2622 Based on the video chip 265 that outputs the video signal and the video signal output from the video chip 265 Display 2661 such as CRT, LCD display, etc., and keyboard 2662 and mouse 2663 as input units that accept instructions from the user and give instruction signals to the CPU 261 via the peripheral device control chip 264 And a network interface 267 for controlling communication of information with other node devices 1 etc. via the router 269 etc. via the network 8, a CPU 261, a main storage device 262, The peripheral device control chip 264, the video chip 265, and the network interface 267 are connected to each other via a system bus 268. The video chip 265 is connected to an external display 2661, and the peripheral device control chip 264 is connected to an external keyboard 2662 and a mouse 2663! The network interface 267 is connected to an external router 269 or the like via the network 8.

Then, the CPU 261 performs overall control of the entire content input server 26 by executing various programs stored in the main storage device 262 and the like. Specifically, the CPU 261 responds to an instruction signal from the input unit such as the keyboard 2662 or the mouse 2663, You can change the conditions in the catalog management program, and change the policy in the content control program. In addition, the CPU 261 transmits the broadcast station setting information and the broadcast program file to the broadcast station device 31 through the network 8 and the network interface 267, and transmits the catalog list information in response to the received catalog list request from the node device 1. The content distributed and stored in the content distributed storage system S1 is transmitted (input) to the desired node device 1.

It should be noted that the catalog list has the above-described auxiliary information of the first content data as a list. In addition, the content ID may be associated with the catalog list. In node device 1, when a catalog list is acquired, content may be specified from the catalog list, and a content ID may be generated each time a query is sent, or content corresponding to the content specified from the catalog list. You may get an ID.

[0130] Regarding the above-described broadcast program file, it is assumed that the content input server 26 stores a broadcast program file for each channel. Further, the content input server 26 possesses the above-mentioned broadcast station setting information, and when transmitting the broadcast program file to the node device 1 functioning as a broadcast station, the broadcast station setting information corresponding to the channel is added. Can be sent. These broadcast program files and broadcast station setting information are created according to the settings of the broadcast manager.

[6. Operation in content distribution system of this embodiment]

Next, the operation of each device in the content distribution system S of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0132] [6. 1. Operation of node device]

First, the operation of the node device 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 16 to FIG. Fig. 16 mainly shows the operation when participating in the tree-type distribution system S2, and Fig. 17 mainly shows the operation when participating in the distributed content storage system S1, and Fig. 18 Fig. 19 mainly shows the operation when the acquired first content data, which is a feature of the present invention, is distributed as second content data (broadcast content data) in the tree-type self-trust system S2, and in Fig. 19, Operation when functioning mainly as the broadcasting station device 31 is shown. In Fig. 20, the system participation process in step S3 FIG. 21 shows the input content reception process of step S26, FIG. 22 shows the content search process of step S45, and FIG. 23 shows the content data acquisition process of step S61.

[0133] When the CPU 11 of the node device 1 recognizes that the power of the node device 1 is turned on by the user input remote controller 23 or the like, the CPU 11 starts the processing (start).

[0134] When the processing is started, the CPU 11 initializes various settings such as the program of the node device 1 (step S1), and sends a notification of participation in the tree-type distribution system S2 to the connection destination introduction server 35. (Step S2). Next, the CPU 11 performs a participation process in the content distributed storage system S1 (step S3). The process of participating in the distributed content storage system S1 in step S3 will be described later with reference to FIG.

Next, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the user input remote control 23 equal force is also a force with a channel selection instruction from the user (step S4). When there is an instruction to select a channel with user power (step S4; YES), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the node device 1 (upstream node device 1) connected to the upstream side has power (step S5). . If the upstream node device 1 is present (step S5; YES), the CPU 11 transmits information indicating that the current upstream node device 1 is requested to stop transmission of broadcast content data (broadcast content stream) (step S5). S6). Next, the CPU 11 transmits, to the connection destination introduction server 35, a connection destination candidate request Sc for requesting a candidate for the node device 1 as a connection destination in order to view the broadcast of the selected channel (broadcast station device) ( Step S7). In step S5, when there is no upstream node device 1 (step S5; NO), the process proceeds to step S7 without passing through step S6.

[0136] Next !, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the power is off (step S8). If the power is not off! (Step S8; NO), the process returns to step S4.

[0137] In step S4, if the user does not give a channel selection instruction! (Step S4; NO), the CPU 11 sends the connection information from the connection destination introduction server 35 to the upstream node device 1 that is the connection destination. It is determined whether a candidate has been received (step S9). When the upstream node device 1 candidate is received from the connection destination introduction server 35 with respect to step S7 described above (step S9; YES), the CPU 11 selects the upstream node device 1 candidate from the acquired upstream node device 1 candidates. One node device 1 is selected (step S10). Next, the CPU 11 moves downstream of the selected upstream node device 1. The node device 1 is connected as the node device 1 (downstream node device 1) to be connected (step S11), and information indicating that broadcast content data distribution start is requested is transmitted to the selected upstream node device 1 (step S12). Next, the CPU 11 transmits a report on participation in the tree topology to the connection destination introduction server 35 (step S13), and returns to step S8.

[0138] In step S9, when the candidate for the upstream node device 1 has not been received from the connection destination introduction server 35 (step S9; NO), the CPU 11 has received the broadcast content data packet from the upstream node device 1. It is determined whether or not the power is strong (step S14). When the upstream node device 1 also receives the broadcast content data packet (step S14; YES), the CPU 11 sequentially transfers the packet to the downstream node device 1 (step S15). At this time, the received broadcast content data packets are sequentially stored in the ring buffer 121, and then the CPU 11 obtains the packets from the ring buffer 121 and reproduces the broadcast content data (step S16). Return to.

[0139] When the broadcast content data packet is not received from the upstream node device 1 in step S14 (step S14; NO), the CPU 11 starts transmission of the broadcast content data from the node device 1 serving as the downstream node device. It is determined whether the request or transmission stop request is received (step S17). If a broadcast content data transmission start request or transmission stop request is received (step S17; YES), the CPU 11 starts or stops transmission of broadcast content data in response to the request (step S18). Return to step S8.

[0140] If a broadcast content data transmission start request or transmission stop request has not been received in step S17 (step S17; NO), the flow proceeds to Fig. 17, and the CPU 11 receives the content disclosure message. It is determined whether or not (step S19). If a content disclosure message is received (step S19; YES), the CPU 11 registers the location information such as the content ID and IP address of the first content data as content index information (step S20). . Next, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the node device itself is a root node with respect to the content release message (step S21). If the node itself is not the root node (step S21; NO), the CPU 11 forwards the received message (in this case, the content disclosure message) to the next node device 1 (step S22). Return to 8. If the node itself is the root node (step S21; YES), the process returns to step S8 without transferring the received message (content disclosure message here).

[0141] If the content release message is not received in step S19 (step S19; NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not a content deletion message is received (step S23). When the content deletion message is received (step S23; YES;), the CPU 11 stores the content data information of the first content data corresponding to the content deletion message. The location information of the content node of the first content data is deleted from the index information (step S24), the process proceeds to step S21, and if the node itself is not the root node, the message is transferred to the next node device. (Steps S21, 22), return to Step 8.

[0142] If the content deletion message is not received in step S23 (step S23; NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the input content data is received from the content input server 26 (step S23). S25). When the input content data is received from the content input server 26 (step S25; YES), the CPU 11 performs input content reception processing (step S26) and returns to step S8. The input content reception process will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0143] In step S25, when the input content data is not received from the content input server 26 (step S25; NO), the CPU 11 as the request receiving means receives the first content from the other node device 1. It is determined whether or not the content transmission request information for the data has been received (step S27). When the content transmission request information is received (step S27; YES), the CPU 11 as the first content data transmission means distributes the corresponding first content data to the requested node device 1 (step S28), and the step Return to S8. At this time, it is assumed that the first content data includes rate control information, and the distribution rate at which the first content data is distributed as broadcast content data is determined according to the rate control information. Note that this rate control information differs for each content. Force control that may not be described in the steps to be described later includes rate control information in the transmitted second content data.

[0144] If the content transmission request information is not received in step S27, Step S27; NO), moving to FIG. 18, the node device 1 functions as the node device of the distribution source in the present invention and the broadcasting station device 31 in the present embodiment. The CPU 11 as the first content data acquisition means determines whether or not it has received a packet of the first content data for broadcast content data as a result of the broadcast content data acquisition process in step S61 described later (step S29). When the broadcast content data packet is received (step S29; YES), the CPU 11 as the storage determination means determines whether or not to save the broadcast content data on the HD (node disk) in the hard disk device 13. Judge (Step S30). With regard to the judgment of the power and power to save the broadcast content data and the power and power to convert the data described later, the conditions set by the user of the node device, etc. This depends on the broadcast station setting information (see Fig. 11) and information set for each broadcast content data. When node device 1 functions as a broadcasting station device with channel number “3” in FIG. 11, it is determined to store broadcast content data.

[0145] When the broadcast content data is stored on the hard disk (step S30; YES), the CPU 11 sequentially stores the received broadcast content data packets on the hard disk (the recording medium in the present invention) (step S31). . Next, the CPU 11 determines whether or not all the packets for one broadcast content data are collected (step S 32). (Step S32; NO), the process proceeds to Step S37 described later. Until all broadcast content data is available, steps S32; NO, S37 to S40, S8; NO, S4; NO, S9; NO, S14; NO, S17; N0, S19; NO, S23; NO, S25 ; NO, S27; NO, S29; YES, S30; YES, S31 are repeated, and when the broadcast content data is prepared, a public message is transmitted as necessary, as will be described later.

[0146] If all the broadcast content data packets are prepared in step S32 (step S32; YES), the CPU 11 as the disclosure determination means determines whether the stored content data is disclosed as the first content data. Is determined (step S33). When the node device 1 functions as a broadcasting station device with the channel number “3” in FIG. 11, it is determined that the broadcast content data is disclosed because there is no disclosure condition. Saved storyboard When publishing the data as the first content data (step S33; YES), the CPU 11 uses the content ID of the stored first content data and its location information (such as the IP address of its own node device) as the content index. Information is registered (step S34). Next, the CPU 11 as the public information transmitting means determines whether or not the node device 1 itself is a root node when considering the content ID of the first content data (step S35). If the node device 1 itself is not the root node (step S35; N0), the CPU 11 as the public information transmitting means sends the content disclosure message for the stored first content data to the other node device 1 (root node (Step S36) and go to step S37. On the other hand, when the node device 1 itself is a root node in step S35 (step S35; YES), and when the stored content data is not disclosed as the first content data in step S33 described above (step S33). ; NO), proceed to step S37 without performing any processing.

The CPU 11 starts a broadcast content data packet generation process (step S37).

Next, the CPU 11 determines whether or not it has the power to convert the broadcast content data (step S38). When the broadcast content data is converted (step S38; YES), the CPU 11 as the conversion means broadcasts the data by a predetermined method. The content data is converted (step S39), and the CPU 11 as the second content data distribution means starts transmission of the broadcast content data packet converted to the downstream node device 1 (step S40). When the node device 1 functions as a broadcasting station device of channel number “3” in FIG. 11, the broadcast content data is converted into data for a predetermined one minute and transmitted. When the broadcast content data is not converted in step S38 (step S38; NO), the CPU 11 as the second content data distribution means uses the acquired first content data packet as it is. As a result, transmission (distribution) to the downstream node device 1 is started (step S40). In step S40, conversion is performed by adjusting the transmission speed, waiting for the broadcast content data to be broadcasted, starting broadcasting, or adding the additional information described above.

[0148] Also, in step S30! / Do not save broadcast content data to the hard disk! In this case (step S30; NO), the CPU 11 stores the first content data in the ring buffer 121. Is temporarily stored, and it is determined whether or not the broadcast content data can be converted (step S41). When converting the broadcast content data (step S41; YES), the CPU 11 as the conversion means converts the broadcast content data by a predetermined method (step S42), and the broadcast content converted to the downstream node device 1 is converted. Transmission of the data packet is started (step S43). When the broadcast content data is not converted in step S41 (step S41; NO), the CPU 11 as the second content data distribution means uses the acquired first content data as it is as the broadcast content data as a downstream node device. Send to 1 (step S43). Next, the process returns to step S8. Steps S41 and S43 are the same as steps S38 to S40 described above.

[0149] If the broadcast content data packet is not received in step S29 (step S29; NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not a content search message (query) has been received (step S44). When the query is received (step S44; YES), the CPU 11 performs content search processing (step S45), and returns to step S8. Note that the content search process in step S45 will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0150] In step S44, if a query has not been received (step S44; NO), the CPU 11 obtains content node information (location information such as the IP address of the content node) as a result of the content search processing in S45. It is determined whether or not the received cover is correct (step S46). When the content node information is received (step S46; YES), the CPU 11 as the request transmission means transmits the content transmission request information to the content node (step S47).

[0151] In step S46, if the content node information has not been received (step S46; NO), the process moves to FIG. 19, and whether or not the CPU 11 has received the participation message to the content distributed storage system S1. Is determined (step S48). When the participation message is received (step S48; YES), the participation message includes the location information of the node device (participating node device) that is the transmission source of the participation message and the information on the stage to be transmitted from the table information. Therefore, the CPU 11 transmits the information of the table corresponding to the possessed table information power to the participating caronode device (step S49). Next, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the node device 1 itself is the root node of the node ID of the participating node (step S50). If the node device 1 itself is not the root node (step S50; NO), the CPU 11 Transfer the participation message to the device (step S51), and return to step S8. If the node device 1 itself is the root node (step S50; YES), the process returns to step S8 without transferring the participation message.

[0152] If the participation message is received at Step S48! (Step S48; NO), it is determined whether the broadcast station start request message is received from the connection destination introduction server 35 or not. (Step S52). When the broadcast station start request message is received (step S5 2; YES), the CPU 11 obtains the broadcast program file indicating the content to be broadcast, its sequence, time zone, etc. from the content input server 26, and the broadcast program Broadcasting is started along the file (step S53). Next, the CPU 11 registers with the connection destination introduction server 35 to function as a broadcasting station device (step S54), and returns to step S8.

[0153] If the broadcast station start request message is not received in step S52 (step S52; NO), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the broadcast station stop request message is received from the connection destination introduction server 35. Is determined (step S55). When the broadcast station stop request message is received (step S55; YES), the CPU 11 deletes the broadcast program file used for the current broadcast and stops the broadcast (step S56). Next, the CPU 11 functions as a broadcasting station device to the connection destination introduction server 35, performs registration for canceling the new one! (Step S57), and returns to step S8.

[0154] In step S55, if a broadcast station stop request message has not been received (step S55; NO), CPU 11 wishes to connect from another node device 1 downstream in the tree-type distribution system S2. It is then determined whether or not there is a request for disconnecting to establish a connection or disconnect the existing connection (step S58). If there is a request for connection establishment or connection disconnection from another node device 1 (step S58; YES), the CPU 11 establishes a connection with another node device 1 or disconnects the connection according to the request. (Step S59), return to Step S8. When a connection is established with another node device 1 in step S59, broadcasting is started subsequently, and preparations for transmitting broadcast content data are made.

[0155] In step S58, when there is no connection establishment or connection disconnection request from another node device 1 (step S58; NO), the CPU 11 saves the broadcast program file (see Fig. 10 (A)). Based on this, it is determined whether or not it is time to acquire broadcast content data (Step S60). When it is time to acquire broadcast content data (step S60; YES), the CPU 11 performs a broadcast content acquisition process (step S61) and returns to step S8. The broadcast content acquisition process in step S61 will be described later with reference to FIG.

Here, when the power is turned off in step S8, it is determined that the power is off (step S8; YES), and the processing in the node device 1 is ended (end). 16 to 19, the flowcharts are connected to each other, and connectors 1 to 6 are used for the portions to be connected.

[0157] Next, the participation process in the content distribution storage system S1 in step S3 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0158] When the process of participating in the distributed content storage system S1 starts (Start: Step S3), the CPU 11 of the node device 1 transmits a contact node introduction request message to the contact node introduction server 25 (Step S71). ). Next, the CPU 11 acquires contact node information from the contact node introduction server 25 (step S72), and transmits a participation message to the contact node (step S73). Next, the CPU 11 receives table information from the contact node and each node device 1 to which the participation message is transferred (step S74).

Next, the CPU 11 updates the routing table held by the CPU 11 based on the received table information (step S75), and requests the catalog list from the content input server 26 (step S76). Next, the CPU 11 receives the catalog list from the content input sano 26 (step S77), and returns to step S3 in FIG. 16 (return). When performing such participation processing, the node device 1 functions as a participating node.

Next, the input content reception process in step S26 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0161] When the input content reception process is started (start: step S26), the CPU 11 of the node device 1 stores the received first content data in the HD of the node disk device 13 (step S81). Next, the CPU 11 registers the content ID of the stored first content data and its location information (such as the IP address of its own node device) in the content index information. Record (step S82). Next, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the node device 1 itself can become a root node when considering the content ID of the first content data (step S83). If the node device 1 itself is not the root node (step S83; NO), the CPU 11 sends a content disclosure message for the stored first content data to the other node device 1 (toward the root node). (Step S84), the process returns to Step S26 in FIG. 17 (Return). On the other hand, if the node device 1 itself is the root node (step S83; YES), the process returns to step S26 in FIG. 17 without performing any processing (return). The node device 1 that has performed such input content reception processing functions as a content node.

Next, the content search process in step S45 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0163] When the content search process starts (start: step S45), the CPU 11 of the node device 1 acquires the content ID of the first content data for which the content search message (query) power is also searched (step S91). Next, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the content ID is present in the possessed content index information (step S92). If the content ID exists in the content index information (step S 92; YES), the CPU 11 obtains the content node information corresponding to the content ID from the content index blueprint (step S93). The content node information is transmitted to the node device that has transmitted the content search message (step S94). On the other hand, when the content ID does not exist in the content index blueprint at step S92 (step S92; NO), the content search message is transferred to another node device 1 (step S95). When these steps S94 and S95 are completed, the process returns to step S45 in FIG. 18 (return).

[0164] Next, the broadcast content data acquisition processing in step S61 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0165] When the broadcast content data acquisition process starts (Start: Step S61), the CPU 11 of the node device 1 acquires the content ID of the broadcast content data from the broadcast program file (Step S101), and the content corresponding to the content ID. It is determined whether or not data is stored (step S102). If the content data is not saved (Step S102; NO), it is determined whether or not the content ID exists in the content index † blueprint possessed (Step S103). If the content ID is present in the content index information possessed (step S103; YES), the content index information power also acquires the content node information (step S104), and the CPU 11 as the request transmission means sends the content node information to the content node. Content transmission request information is transmitted (step S 105). On the other hand, when the content ID does not exist in the content index information in step S103 (step S103; NO), the CPU 11 as the search means transmits a content search message with the content ID added to the other node device 1. (Step S1 06). When these steps S105 and S106 are completed, the process returns from step S61 in FIG. 19 to step S8 in FIG. 16 (return). In step S102, if the corresponding content data is saved (step S102; YES), it is not necessary to acquire content data, so the same processing as steps S41, S42, and S43 is performed without performing the above processing. To start transmission of the broadcast content packet to the downstream node device, and returns from step S61 in FIG. 19 to step S8 in FIG. 16 (return).

[0166] [6. 2. Operation of contact node introduction server]

Next, the operation of the contact node introduction server 25 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0167] When the CPU 251 of the contact node introduction server 25 recognizes that the contact node introduction service is to be started by an external force instruction via the network interface 257 or an input force input from the keyboard 2562, etc., the processing is performed. Start (Start).

[0168] When the process is started, the CPU 251 initializes various settings such as the program of the contact node introduction server 25 (step S111), and determines whether or not there is a contact node introduction request message from the node device 1. (Step S112). If there is a contact node introduction request message (step S112; YES), the CPU 251 sends node information (location information such as an IP address) of the candidate contact node to the node device 1 that is the source of the contact node introduction request message. ) (Step S113), and the process proceeds to step S114. If there is no contact node introduction request message in step S112, the process proceeds to step S114 without passing through step S113. Next, the CPU 251 Judgment is made based on whether or not to end the service, input from the keyboard 2562, etc., or an instruction via the network interface 257 (step S114). If the contact node introduction server service is not terminated (step S114; NO), return to step S112. If the contact node introduction server service is terminated (step S114; YES), the process is terminated. (End).

[0169] [6. 3. Operation of Connection Destination Introduction Server]

Next, the operation of the connection destination introduction server 35 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0170] When the CPU 351 of the connection destination introduction server 35 recognizes that the connection destination introduction service is started by an instruction from the outside via the network interface 357 or an input from the input unit such as the keyboard 3562, etc., Start the process (Start).

[0171] When the process is started, the CPU 351 initializes various settings such as the program of the connection destination introduction server 35 (step S121), and determines whether or not there is a participation notification from the node device 1 (step S121). S122). If there is a participation notification (step S122; YES), the CPU 351 registers the location information of the node device that sent the participation notification in the terminal management database (step S123), and terminates the connection destination introduction server service. Judgment is made based on input of power, keyboard 3562, etc., or instructions via the network interface 357 (step S124). If the contact node introduction server service is not terminated (step S124: NO), the process returns to step S122.

[0172] If there is no participation notification in step S122 (step S122; NO), the CPU 351 determines whether there is a registration request or a cancellation request for the broadcasting station apparatus power (step S125). When there is a broadcast station device registration request or cancellation request (step S125; YES), the CPU 351 registers or cancels the location information of the broadcast station device in the terminal management database according to the request. (Step S126). Next, the CPU 351 registers or cancels the channel information of the broadcast station apparatus in the topology database (step S127), and returns to step S124.

[0173] In step S125, when there is no broadcast station device registration request or cancellation request (step S125; NO), the CPU 351 determines whether there is a connection destination introduction request Sc from the node device 1. (Step S128). If there is a connection destination introduction request Sc (step S128; YES), the CPU 351 acquires the location information of the node device 1 that is the topology database power connection destination candidate (step S129) and connects to the requesting node device. The location information of the previous candidate node device 1 is transmitted as a connection destination candidate notification Nk {} (step SI 30), and step S124 is returned.

[0174] In step S128, when there is no connection destination introduction request Sc (step S128; NO;), the CPU 351 broadcasts from the broadcast manager's terminal device (not shown) or the input unit such as the keyboard 3562. It is determined whether there is a station opening request (step S131). If there is a broadcast station establishment request (step S131; YES), the CPU 351 selects the node device 1 whose terminal management database is also the broadcast station device 31 (step S132), and requests the selected node device 1 to start the broadcast station. The message is transmitted (step S133), and the process returns to step S124. Although not shown in FIG. 25, if there is a request from the broadcast manager to stop the broadcast station, the broadcast is similarly sent to the node device functioning as the broadcast station device 31. Send station stop request message.

[0175] If there is no broadcast station establishment request in step S131 (step S131; NO), the CPU 351 determines whether or not there is a topology participation report from the node device 1 (step S134). When there is a topology participation report from the node device 1 (step S134; YES), the CPU 351 registers information on the topology change caused by the node device 1 participating in the topology in the topology database (step S135). Return to step S124. In step S134, when there is no topology participation report from the node device 1 (step S134; NO), the process returns to step SI24.

Here, in step S124, when the contact node introduction server service is terminated (step S124; YES), the process is terminated (end).

[0177] [6. 4. Operations of Content Input Server]

Next, the operation of the content input server 26 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0178] The CPU 261 of the content input server 26 introduces the connection destination by an instruction from the outside via the network interface 267 or an input from the input unit such as the keyboard 2662. When it recognizes that the service is to be started, it starts its processing (Start).

[0179] When the process is started, the CPU 261 initializes various settings such as the program of the content input server 26 (Step S141), and the content input instruction is also given to the device of the administrator of the distributed content storage system S1. It is determined whether or not there is power (step S142). If there is a content input instruction (step S142; YES), the CPU 261 updates the content ID management table corresponding to the new first content data to be input (step S1 43), and in the catalog list. Information on the new first content data is updated (step S144), and the new first content data is distributed to one or a plurality of node devices 1 randomly determined in the content distributed storage system S1 (step S145). Next, the CPU 261 determines whether or not to end the content input server service, the input of the keyboard 2662 or the like, an instruction via the network interface 267, and the like (step S146). If the content input server service is not terminated (step S146; N0), the process returns to step S142.

If there is no content input instruction in step S142 (step S142; NO;), CPU 261 determines whether or not there is a catalog list transmission request from node device 1 (step S147). If there is a catalog list transmission request (step S147; YES), the CPU 261 transmits the catalog list information to the node device 1 that is the source of the catalog list transmission request (step S148), and step S146. Return to.

[0181] If there is no catalog list transmission request in step S147 (step S147; NO), the CPU 261 determines whether or not there is a broadcast program file transmission request from the node apparatus 1 functioning as the broadcast station apparatus 31. Is determined (step S149). If there is a broadcast program file transmission request (step S149; YES), the CPU 261 transmits the broadcast program file to the node device 1 that is the transmission source of the broadcast program file transmission request (step S150). Return to S146. In step S149, when there is no broadcast program file transmission request from the node device 1 (step S149; NO), the process returns to step SI46.

Here, in step S146, when the content input server service is terminated (step S146; YES), the processing is terminated (end). [0183] [7. Variations]

Although the above-described embodiment has been described as an example of the present invention, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the following modifications may be made.

[0184] [7. 1. First variant]

In the above-described embodiment, the node device 1 has been described as functioning as the broadcast station device 31, but the content distribution system S includes the broadcast station device 31 for the broadcast station separately from the normal node device 1. Also good. Such a broadcasting station device 31 must also participate in the content distribution storage system S1. The content distribution system S having the broadcasting station device 31 will be described below.

The configuration and function of the broadcast station apparatus 31 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of the broadcast station device 31. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 27, the broadcast station apparatus 31 includes a CPU 311 having a calculation function, a ring buffer memory 3121 for temporarily storing the received first content data, etc., an operating system 3122, and a stream “1” program. 3123, screen control program 3124, topology control program 3125, encoded audio data included in content data (decoding (decompressing data, decoding, etc.) encoded video data (video information) included in content data, etc. (Audio information) etc. (data expansion, decoding, etc.

A main storage device 312 comprising a working RAM, a ROM for storing various data and programs, the first content data, the content index information, and the DHT And HD to store and store programs, etc. Control the connection between the hard disk device 313 as a configured recording medium and the peripheral devices such as the hard disk device 313 and input unit, and transmit information Peripheral device control chip 314, a video chip 3151 that performs a predetermined drawing process on the decoded video data and outputs it as a video signal, a CRT that displays video based on the video signal output from the video chip 3151, a liquid crystal Display 3161 such as a display and the decoded audio data Sound and D (Digital) / A (Analog) sound source chip 3152 outputs this converts is amplified by an amplifier, an audio signal output from the sound source chip 3152 to No. A speaker 3162 that outputs as a wave, and a keyboard 3163 and a mouse 31 64 as an input unit that accepts an instruction from the user and gives an instruction signal corresponding to the instruction to the CPU 311 (for example, an operation remote controller, an operation panel, etc. ) And a network interface 317 for controlling communication of information with other node devices 1 etc. via the router 319 etc. through the network 8, a CPU 311, a main storage device 312, peripheral device control chip 314, video chip 3151, sound source chip 3152, and network interface 317 are connected to each other via system bus 318. The network interface 317 is connected to an external router 319 or the like via the network 8.

[0187] Then, the CPU 311 performs overall control of the broadcasting station device 31 by executing various programs stored in the main storage device 312 and the like, and also instructs the input unit force of the keyboard 3163 and the like. In response to the signal, content data registration processing is performed. Further, the CPU 311 of the broadcast station apparatus 31 includes a first content data acquisition unit, a second content data distribution unit, a storage determination unit, a public information transmission unit, a request reception unit (content request), and a first content data transmission unit according to the present invention. It functions as a means, a disclosure determination means, a search means (query), a request transmission means (content request), and a conversion means. It is assumed that the broadcast station device 31 has received a broadcast program file indicating the order, time, content ID, and the like of broadcast content data to be distributed from the content input server 26.

Next, the operation of the broadcast station apparatus 31 will be described with reference to FIG.

When the CPU 311 of the broadcasting station device 31 recognizes that the broadcasting station device 31 itself has been turned on by a power switch (not shown) or the like, the CPU 311 starts the processing (start).

[0189] When the process is started, the CPU 311 initializes various settings such as the program of the broadcasting station device 31 (step S161), and transmits a notification of participation in the tree-type distribution system S2 to the connection destination introduction server 35. (Step S162). Next, the CPU 311 performs a process for participating in the content distribution storage system S1 (step S163). Note that the participation process in the content distribution storage system S1 in step S163 is the same as the description in step S3 described above with reference to FIG.

[0190] Next, the CPU 311 starts broadcasting the keyboard 3163 equal force by the operation of the broadcast manager. It is determined whether or not there is a request to start or stop broadcasting (step S164). If there is a request to start broadcasting or stop broadcasting (step S164; YES), the CPU 311 starts or stops content packet generation processing according to the content of the request (step S165). Next, the CPU 311 determines whether or not to convert the broadcast content data (step S166), and when converting the broadcast content data (step S166; YES), the CPU311 as the conversion means Broadcast content data is converted by a predetermined method (step S167), and the process proceeds to step S168. If the broadcast content data is not converted in step S166, the process proceeds directly to step S168.

Next, the CPU 311 determines whether or not the power is turned off (step S168). If the power is turned off (step S168; NO), the process returns to step S164.

[0192] In step S164, if there is no broadcast start or broadcast stop request (step S164; NO), the CPU 311 establishes a connection to the downstream in the tree-type distribution system S2 from the node device 1 or has already been established. It is determined whether or not there is a request for disconnection to disconnect a certain connection (step S169). When there is a request for connection establishment or connection disconnection from another node device 1 (step S169; YES), the CPU 311 establishes a connection with another node device 1 or disconnects the connection according to the request. (Step S 170) Then, the distribution of the broadcast content to the node device is started or stopped (Step S 171), and the process returns to Step S 168.

[0193] In step S169, when there is no connection establishment or connection disconnection request from node device 1 (step S169; NO), it is time to obtain broadcast content data based on the broadcast program file. It is determined whether or not the power is correct (step S172). When it is time to acquire broadcast content data (step S172; YES;), the CPU 311 performs broadcast content acquisition processing (step S173), and returns to step S168. Note that the broadcast content acquisition process in step S 173 is the same as that in step S 61 described above with reference to FIG.

[0194] Here, if the power is turned off in step S168, it is determined that the power is off (step S168; YES), and the processing in the broadcast station apparatus 31 is ended (END).

[0195] In this embodiment, the acquired first content data is saved and saved on the hard disk. In the above description, the content disclosure message for the first content data is not transmitted.

[0196] Since the broadcasting station apparatus 31 mainly distributes the second content data in the tree-type distribution system S2, it also participates in the distributed content storage system S1, but the system S1! / The data is stored in the DHT routing table of the other node device 1, or the first content data stored in the content distribution storage system S1 is input from the content input server 26 and stored. It can be set so that there is no. In the distributed content storage system S1, when the broadcast station device 31 receives each message and information such as a query, a content disclosure message, and a participation message, it performs processing such as transfer in the same way as a normal node device.

[0197] Here, in the content distribution system S, there are as many broadcasting station devices 31 as the number of broadcasting channels, and the broadcasting station device 31 of the present embodiment and the normal node device 1 are broadcasting. You can mix things that function as the station equipment 31!

[0198] [7. 2. Second variant]

In the above embodiment, when the content packet in the content distributed storage system S 1 is received in step S29 in the operation of the node device 1, the broadcast content is distributed (broadcast) to the tree-type distribution system S2. However, it is not limited to this.

[0199] In the second modification, when the node device 1 receives the packet of the first content data, the content data acquired for broadcasting the content data acquired by the first content data based on its own request. If the content data is acquired based on its own request, the content data is stored in the HD of the hard disk device 13 and the content data is acquired for playback and broadcasting. In this case, it is broadcast as broadcast content data in the tree-type distribution system S2.

[0200] The operation of the node device 1 working on this modification will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 29 is a modification of the flowchart of FIG. 18, and step S similar to FIG. 18 is omitted.

[0201] If the content transmission request information has not been received in step S27 of FIG. 17 (step S27; NO), the process moves to FIG. 29, and whether the CPU 11 has received the content packet. It is determined whether or not (step S181). If no content packet has been received (step S181; NO), the process proceeds to step S44 (omitted in FIG. 29).

[0202] On the other hand, when the content packet is received (step S181; YES), the CPU 11 as the content judging means obtains the first content data obtained by the CPU 11 as the first content data obtaining means, that is, the above content. It is determined whether or not the packet corresponds to the content data distributed in the tree distribution system S2 (step S182). Specifically, the CPU 11 may determine whether the received content packet is a content packet received as a result of the broadcast content data acquisition process in step S61, or the received content packet is included in the broadcast program file. If it is a content packet for broadcasting (step S182; YES), the process proceeds to step S30 described above to perform processing for broadcasting the content packet (in FIG. 29). Is omitted). At this time, the node device 1 functions as a distribution source node device in the present invention, the broadcast station device 31 in the embodiment, and the CPU 11 functions as a second content data distribution means.

[0203] In step S182, the received content packet is not included in the broadcast program file as a result of the content packet received as a result of the broadcast content data acquisition process in step S61, and the content packet is not included in the broadcast program file. The tree-type distribution system S2 does not support content data distributed! In this case (step S182; NO), the CPU 11 determines that the received content data is content data acquired based on its own request, and stores the first content data in the HD of the node disc device 13. (Step S183).

[0204] Next, the CPU 11 reproduces the content data for viewing by the user (step S184), and stores the content ID of the stored first content data and its location information (such as the IP address of the own node device). ) Is registered in the content index information (step S185). Next, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the node device 1 itself has power to become a root node when considering the content ID of the first content data (step S186). If the node device 1 itself is not the root node (step S186; NO), the CPU 11 sends a content disclosure message for the stored first content data to another node device. Transmit to 1 (toward the root node) (step S187), and return to step S8 in FIG. On the other hand, if the node device 1 itself is the root node in step S186 (step S186; YES), the process returns to step S8 in FIG. 16 without performing any processing (connector 4).

[0205] In this variation, the node device 1 corresponds to the content data that the first content data acquired by the CPU 11 as the first content data acquisition means is distributed to the all-in-one distribution system S2. Content determination means (CPU11) for determining whether or not to perform the operation, and the first content data acquired by the content determination means by the first content data acquisition means is sent to the all-in-one distribution system S2. When it is determined that it corresponds to the content data to be distributed, the CPU 11 as the second content data distribution means uses the acquired first content data as the second content data. Distribution to other node devices 32 in the network. The determination in the content determination means may refer to the broadcast program file as described above for the operation, and confirm whether the content data received as a result of the broadcast content data acquisition process in step S61 is power. There is no particular limitation.

[0206] [7. 3. Other variants]

In the above-described embodiment, the content distribution system S is not limited to this configuration including the contact node introduction server 25, the connection destination introduction server 35, and the content input server 26, and these server devices are included in the system S. Even if it does not, the node device 1 that participates in the distributed content storage system S1 and participates in the tree distribution system S2 as the distribution source node device 31 is the first in the distributed content storage system S1. First content data acquisition means (CPU 11) for storing the content data and acquiring the first content data from the node device 1, and the tree-type distribution system S2 using the acquired first content data as the second content data And the second content data distribution means (CPU 11) for distributing to other node devices 32. Therefore, the operations and roles of the devices constituting the system S such as the node device 1 in the content distribution system S may differ due to the absence of the above-described servers.

[0207] With such a content distribution system of the present invention, the burden of content storage and the like in the content distribution source node device of the tree distribution system S2 is reduced. for that reason, Even if the broadcast administrator does not separately provide the broadcasting station device 31 as in the first variation, the node device 1 of a normal user performs the role of a broadcasting station, so that the broadcasting station can be operated with less equipment. It is possible to reduce the cost for operating the broadcasting station.

[0208] In the above-described embodiment, the node device 1 stores the DHT routing table, and the first content data is distributed and stored based on this DHT routing table. The present invention is not limited to this embodiment. The content distributed storage system S 1 is formed by the participation of a plurality of node devices 1, and a plurality of first content data are distributed and stored in the plurality of node devices 1, and one node device 1 (the content node described above) However, the first content data stored by itself may be transmitted via the communication means in response to a request from another node device 1.

[0209] In the above-described embodiment, the node device 1 and the broadcast station device 31 perform the participation process (steps S3, S163, FIG. 20 and the like) in the content distributed storage system S1 when the device starts to be activated. Force being performed It is not limited to this form. For example, the node device 1 participates in the content distributed storage system S1 at a necessary stage such as the stage where the node apparatus 1 starts to function as the broadcast station apparatus 31 or the stage where the broadcast station apparatus 31 starts distributing the second content data, After obtaining the required first content data, you may have withdrawn to the required stage.

[0210] In the above-described embodiment, in the description of step S28 and the like, the power that rate control information is included in any content data (first content data, _second (broadcast) content data). Without limitation, rate control information may be included only in the second (broadcast) content data.

[0211] In the embodiment described above, in the description of steps S20, S34, S82, etc., the content node information of the content data is used as a cache node regardless of whether or not the own node device 1 is a root node. If it is registered in the content index information, but its own node device 1 is not the root node (step S21; NO, S35; NO, S83; NO), the content node information of the content data is registered in the content index information. You may proceed to the next step without doing so.

[0212] In the above embodiment, as shown in Figs. 5 and 9, the root node is a content node. The node device 1 that sends the location information of the query to the node device 1 that sent the query, and the node device requests the first content data from the content node and obtains the first content data. It is not limited. For example, if the territory sent by node device 1 arrives at the root node, the root node should notify the content node that “the corresponding first content data should be sent to node device 1 that sent the query”. The content node power that has received this notification transmits the corresponding first content data to the node device 1 that is the transmission source of the query.

[0213] In the above-described embodiment, the node device 1 can store the first content data acquired for broadcasting in the recording medium (hard disk), and can select whether or not to store it. However, the present invention is not limited to this form, and it may be a form in which the first content data acquired for broadcasting cannot be saved, a form that is determined to be saved without selecting whether or not to save, and a form that has not been saved. Also good.

[0214] In the above embodiment, when the first content data is newly stored in the recording medium, the node device 1 stores the first content data in another node device! Public information (content disclosure message) indicating that the content is distributed to the managing node device 1 (root node) that manages the location of the first content data in the distributed content storage system S1 as a content node It is possible to function and select whether or not to publish in this way. It may be in a form that is determined to be disclosed or not necessarily disclosed.

[0215] In the above-described embodiment, the acquired first content data is converted into a format for distribution in the tree-type distribution system S2 to be converted into the second content data (broadcast content data), or is it converted? However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the content data may not be converted. The conversion may be performed in a predetermined manner without selecting whether or not conversion is performed. It may be in the form decided.

[0216] Also, in the above-described content distribution system S, the length of the tree in the tree-type distribution system S2 is increased (the node device power of the distribution source is also the node to the most downstream node device). In this case, the tree can be divided by increasing the number of distribution source node devices so that they can broadcast the same channel (second content data). Thus, the second content data can be distributed more stably as long as the tree is not longer than a predetermined value. For this purpose, the connection destination introduction server 35 can send a message to each node device 1 to adjust the topology of the tree.

A program corresponding to each operation of the node device 1 or the broadcasting station device 31 is recorded on an information recording medium such as a flexible disk or a hard disk, or is acquired and recorded via a network such as the Internet. It is also possible to cause the microcomputer to function as the CPU 11 or the CPU 311 according to each embodiment by reading and executing this with a microcomputer or the like.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] A content distributed storage system formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein a plurality of first content data are distributed and stored in a plurality of the node devices, and one of the node devices is another The node device participating in the distributed content storage system configured to transmit the first content data stored by itself in response to a request from the node device via a communication means; and

A tree-type distribution system formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein the plurality of node devices are connected in a tree shape via communication means while forming a plurality of hierarchies. The distribution source node participating in the tree-type distribution system in which the second content data distributed from the upper layer node device is sequentially transferred to the lower layer node device. A device,

First content data acquisition means for acquiring the first content data from the node device storing the first content data in the content distributed storage system;

Second content data distribution means for distributing the acquired first content data as the second content data to the other node devices in the tree-type distribution system;

A node device comprising:

[2] The node device according to claim 1,

The first content data acquisition means acquires the first content data transmitted by a streaming method,

The node device, wherein the second content data distribution means distributes the second content data to the other node devices in a streaming manner.

[3] The node device according to claim 1 or 2,

The node device further comprises a recording medium for storing the received first content data.

[4] The node device according to claim 3,

The node device further acquires the first content data when the first content data is acquired. A storage determining unit that determines whether or not the content data is stored in the recording medium; and the recording medium is newly added when the storage determining unit determines that the content data is stored.

1. A node device that stores content data.

[5] The node device according to claim 3 or 4,

When the first content data is newly stored in the recording medium, the node device further distributes public information indicating that the first content data is stored in another node device. Public information transmitting means for transmitting to the managing node device managing the location of the first content data in the storage system, and transmission request information for requesting transmission of the first content data from the other node devices. A request receiving means for receiving;

When the request receiving unit receives the transmission request information from another node device, the first content data transmitting unit transmits the first content data stored in the recording medium according to the transmission request information. When,

A node device comprising:

[6] The node device according to claim 5,

The node device further includes a public determination unit that determines whether or not to transmit the public information when the first content data is newly stored in the recording medium, the public information transmission unit A node device that transmits the public information when the public determination unit determines to transmit the public information.

[7] The node device according to any one of claims 1 to 6,

The node device further stores the first content data corresponding to the second content data to be distributed by the second content data distribution means and stores the location of the node device. Search means for transmitting search information for search to a node device that manages the location of the first content data in the distributed content storage system;

When node information indicating the location of the first content data is received from the managing node device, the first content data is sent to the node device corresponding to the node information. Request transmission means for transmitting transmission request information for requesting transmission of data;

Have

The node device characterized in that the first content data acquisition means acquires the first content data of the node device that is the transmission destination of the transmission request information.

[8] The node device according to any one of claims 1 to 7,

The node device further includes conversion means for converting the acquired first content data into a format for distribution in a tree-type distribution system to form the second content data,

The second content data distribution unit distributes the second content data after being converted by the conversion unit to another node device.

[9] The node device according to claim 8,

The node device, wherein the conversion means degrades at least one of a video, an image, and a sound included in the first content data to form the second content data.

[10] The node device according to claim 8 or 9,

The conversion means selects a part of the video included in the first content data, where the video included in the first content data is partially thinned out. The video or image included in the first content data At least one of reducing the size of the video, degrading the image quality of the video or image included in the first content data, or degrading the sound quality of the audio included in the first content data. A node device characterized by that.

[11] The node device according to any one of claims 1 to 10,

A content half-cut-off means for judging whether or not the first content data acquired by the first content data acquisition means corresponds to the content data to be distributed in the all-in-one distribution system;

When the content determination unit determines that the first content data acquired by the first content data acquisition unit corresponds to content data distributed in the tree distribution system, the second content data distribution unit First A node device, wherein one content data is distributed as the second content data to the other node devices in the all-in-one distribution system.

[12] A recording medium in which an information processing program for causing a computer to function as the node device according to any one of claims 1 to 11 is recorded so as to be readable by the computer.

[13] A content distributed storage system formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein a plurality of first content data is distributed and stored in a plurality of the node devices, and one of the node devices is the other of the above-mentioned The node device participating in the distributed content storage system configured to transmit the first content data stored by itself in response to a request from the node device via a communication means; and

A tree-type distribution system formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein the plurality of node devices are connected in a tree shape via communication means while forming a plurality of hierarchies. The distribution source node participating in the tree-type distribution system in which the second content data distributed from the upper layer node device is sequentially transferred to the lower layer node device. A content distribution method in a device, the step of obtaining the first content data from the node device storing the first content data in the content distributed storage system;

Distributing the acquired first content data as the second content data to the other node devices in the tree-type distribution system;

A content distribution method characterized by comprising:

[14] A content distributed storage system formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein a plurality of first content data is distributed and stored in a plurality of node devices, and one of the node devices is the other of the above-mentioned A content distributed storage system configured to transmit the first content data stored by itself in response to a request from a node device via a communication means; and

A tree-type distribution system formed by participation of a plurality of node devices, wherein the plurality of node devices are connected in a tree shape via communication means while forming a plurality of hierarchies. The second content data distributed by the A content distribution system comprising a tree-type distribution system that is sequentially transferred from a device to the node device in a lower hierarchy,

The node device participating in the content distributed storage system and the distribution source node device participating in the tree-type distribution system are:

A content communication system characterized by comprising: