JP2001084113A - Device and system for recording and reproducing information, and remote controller and method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily attain remote control from the outside part without making any large facility investment. SOLUTION: An electronic mail including a processing request for prescribed processing is transmitted from a remote side library controller 2R through a communication network to a main side library controller 2M. The main side library controller 2M receives the electronic mail including the processing request transmitted from the remote side library controller 2R, and operates processing based on the processing request included in the received electronic mail, and returns the electronic mail to the remote side library controller 2R.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an information recording / reproducing apparatus and an information recording / reproducing system which can be remotely controlled from the outside, and a remote control apparatus and method.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a plurality of recording media (for example, cassette tapes or disk-shaped recording media) which can be attached to and detached from a recording / reproducing apparatus are stored, and if necessary, the recording media are stored in the storage media. To record various information,
There is a system for reproducing recorded information. Such a system is called a library system or an autochanger or the like, but will be referred to as a library system in the following description.

[0003] Some library systems have a predetermined configuration, while others have a configuration that can be changed to some extent according to the user. As a library system whose configuration can be changed in this way, for example, a recording / reproducing console having a recording / reproducing device for recording and reproducing information on and from a recording medium, and a recording medium having a plurality of storage sections each capable of storing a recording medium are provided. There are a plurality of consoles, such as storage consoles, which are connected so that their positions can be changed, and a library system of various scales and arrangements can be constructed by arbitrarily combining these plurality of consoles. Some recording / playback consoles have a plurality of storage sections each capable of storing a recording medium. Further, such a library system includes a transport device that transports a recording medium between an arbitrary storage unit and a recording / reproducing device, and a control unit that controls the recording / reproducing device and the transport device.

In this library system, a transport device is controlled based on the control of a control unit, and a recording medium is transported between an arbitrary storage unit and a recording / reproducing device, and a recording medium transported to the recording / reproducing device. Various types of information are recorded on the medium, and the recorded information is reproduced.

[0005]

Incidentally, there is a case where it is desired to remotely control the above-mentioned library system from the outside. For example, there is a case where it is desired to externally monitor the use state of the library system or to control the operation progress information (log) of the system to be stored in the system.

It is conceivable to perform such remote control using general-purpose communication software. However, such communication software uses TCP / IP (Transmis- sion).
Sion Control Protocol / Int
control is performed using socket communication of the Internet Protocol (Ethernet Protocol), which limits the use of firewalls in terms of security, and can be controlled only within a limited network. There is a problem that it is insufficient.

[0007] Further, for example, a method of operating the library system from a remote place by directly communicating using a telephone line such as a modem line is also conceivable. In this case, using a normal modem line to remotely control the system
Since there are many security problems, it is desirable to construct a system using a dedicated modem line for connecting the device for remote control and the library system one-to-one. However, in order to construct a system using such a dedicated modem line, not only an initial investment but also a cost such as a line usage fee after the system construction is required, and a large capital investment is required. There is.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has as its object to provide an information recording / reproducing apparatus and an information recording / reproducing apparatus capable of easily performing remote control from the outside without making a large investment in equipment. An object of the present invention is to provide a recording and reproducing system, and a remote control device and method.

[0009]

An information recording / reproducing apparatus according to the present invention can use a detachable recording medium to record / reproduce information by at least one of information recording and reproduction, and to accommodate the recording medium. Recording medium storage means having a plurality of storage sections, a transport means for transporting a recording medium between any storage section and the recording / reproduction means in the recording medium storage means, and controlling the transport means and the recording / reproduction means. An information recording / reproducing apparatus comprising a control unit, the control unit having a function of receiving an e-mail including a processing request to the information recording / reproducing apparatus via a communication network and being included in the received e-mail. It is configured to have a function of performing processing based on a processing request.

In a remote control method for an information recording / reproducing apparatus according to the present invention, a recording / reproducing means for performing at least one of recording and reproducing of information by using a removable recording medium, and a recording medium respectively can be stored. Recording medium storage means having a plurality of storage sections, a transport means for transporting a recording medium between any storage section and the recording / reproduction means in the recording medium storage means, and controlling the transport means and the recording / reproduction means. A remote control method for an information recording / reproducing apparatus, comprising: a control unit, wherein an electronic mail including a processing request to the information recording / reproducing apparatus is transmitted to the control unit via a communication network. .

Further, the remote control device according to the present invention comprises a recording / reproducing means for performing at least one of recording and reproducing of information by using a removable recording medium, and a plurality of storage sections each capable of storing a recording medium. Recording medium storing means having: a conveying means for conveying a recording medium between an arbitrary storing section of the recording medium storing means and the recording / reproducing means; and a control means for controlling the conveying means and the recording / reproducing means. A remote control device for remotely controlling the information recording / reproducing device, the remote controlling device having a function of transmitting, via a communication network, an e-mail including a processing request for causing the information recording / reproducing device to perform a predetermined process. It is provided with control means.

An information recording / reproducing system according to the present invention is an information recording / reproducing system including an information recording / reproducing device and a remote control device for remotely controlling the information recording / reproducing device. Remote control means having a function of transmitting an e-mail including a processing request to the information recording / reproducing apparatus to a control means of the information recording / reproducing apparatus via a communication network, wherein the control means of the information recording / reproducing apparatus includes: The present invention has a function of receiving an e-mail including a processing request from a remote control device via a communication network and performing a process based on the processing request included in the received e-mail.

[0013] In the information recording / reproducing apparatus or the information recording / reproducing system according to the present invention, the control means of the information recording / reproducing apparatus receives and receives the e-mail including the processing request transmitted via the communication network. Processing is performed based on the processing request included in the e-mail.

Further, in the remote control device or method according to the present invention, an electronic mail including a processing request for causing the information recording / reproducing device to perform a predetermined process is transmitted by the remote control means via the communication network. You.

In the information recording / reproducing apparatus, the information recording / reproducing system, and the remote control apparatus and method according to the present invention, the processing request contained in the e-mail includes, for example, monitoring the operation state of the information recording / reproducing apparatus from a remote place. There is a request for collecting information on the information recording / reproducing device necessary for performing the operation.

In the information recording / reproducing apparatus, the information recording / reproducing system, and the remote control apparatus and method according to the present invention, the electronic mail is connected to a communication network between apparatuses connected to a communication network such as the Internet. This is the data exchanged via the mail server. The mail server is a device for managing transmission and reception of electronic mail.

[0017]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIGS. 2 and 3 are schematic diagrams showing the outline of a library system as an information recording / reproducing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 shows the basic configuration of the library system according to this embodiment. FIG. 3 is a front view showing the configuration,
FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the overall configuration of the cassette library 1 shown in FIG.

The library system according to the present embodiment accommodates a plurality of video tape cassettes (hereinafter simply referred to as cassettes) K as recording media, and uses an arbitrary cassette K accommodated as required. A cassette library 1 for recording and reproducing information, and a library controller 2 as control means for controlling the cassette library 1.

The library controller 2 comprises a controller body 21 which is a device for controlling the cassette library 1 and a mouse and a keyboard for inputting and giving instructions to the controller body 21 for information necessary for control. An input device 22 as an input device, and a display device 23 connected to the controller main body 21 and having a display screen for displaying information and the like accompanying the control.
And The controller body 21 is, for example, R
The cassette library 1 is connected to the S-232C standard transmission lines 24 and 25. The controller main body 21 is, for example, a SCSI (Small Compu).
A transmission path 31 of the ter System Interface (standard) can be connected to a host computer 3 as a client using the cassette library 1. Further, the controller body 21 is, for example,
It is also possible to connect to the host computer 3 via a communication network 32 of a predetermined standard such as Ethernet (Ethernet).

The cassette library 1 has a basic (Basi
c) Console 1B, drive console 1D, cassette console 1C and junction console 1J
And a cassette transporter 16 as transporting means for transporting the cassette K inside the cassette library 1. The four types of consoles are selectively connected so that their positions can be changed, and the cassette library 1 can be configured as a library using some or all of these four types of consoles. . The minimum configuration of the cassette library 1 for realizing the library system is as follows.
This is a configuration of a basic console 1B and a drive console 1D.

Here, in FIG. 2, the cassette library 1
Only the basic configuration is shown, and an example is shown in which one side of the drive console 1D is connected to one side of the basic console 1B and one side of the cassette console 1C is connected to the other side of the drive console 1D. I have. Further, in FIG. 3, on one side direction of the basic console 1B, in order from the basic console 1B side, the drive console _{1D (1D 11, 1D 12,} ..) and cassette consoles _{1C (1C 11, 1C 12,} ..) and to form the console lines L1 underlying connected alternately, the drive console _1D via the junction console 1 J ₁ · toward the front of the drive console _{1D 11 (1D 21, 1D 22} , ..) and cassette consoles 1C ( _{1C 21,} 1C 22, ..) to form a console column L2 that is extended by connecting alternately, furthermore, the drive console 1D (1D toward the front of the cassette console _{1C 12} via the junction console 1 J _2
31 , 1D ₃₂ ,. . ) And cassette console 1C
(1C ₃₁ , 1C ₃₂ ,...) Are connected alternately to form an extended console row L3. As shown in FIG. 3, when there are a plurality of console rows, the cassette transporter 16 is installed in each console row. The transfer of the cassette K between the console rows is performed at the junction port 1 of the junction console 1J.
8.

The connection relationship between the consoles is not limited to the one shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. For example, even if only the basic console 1B and the drive console 1D are connected, the library system As a basic function can be realized.

In the cassette library 1, the drive console 1D includes a plurality of (for example, four) drive devices 13 as recording / reproducing means for recording and reproducing information on / from the cassette K, and the cassette K And a cassette storage shelf 14 as a recording medium storage means capable of storing a plurality of. In addition, drive console 1D
Is provided with a drive control unit 70 (FIG. 3) for controlling the drive device 13. Cassette console 1C
Is provided with a cassette storage shelf 15 as a recording medium storage means having a plurality of storage sections and capable of storing a plurality of cassettes K. In the drive console 1D to which the junction console 1J is connected and the cassette console 1C, the cassette storage shelves 14 and 15 are partially provided so that the cassette K can be transferred to and from the junction console 1J when the junction console 1J is connected. Has been removed.

The basic console 1B has an input / output port 11 for taking in the cassette K into the library from the front and automatically discharging the cassette K in the library to the outside, and a cassette library 1 at the front of the basic console 1B. And a display section 12 for displaying various information such as control information on the display section. The input / output port unit 11 includes an upper port unit 11 provided on the upper stage of the basic console 1B.
a and a lower port portion 11b provided in the lower stage. The upper port portion 11a and the lower port portion 11b for inputting / outputting the cassette K each have a plurality (for example, four) of input / output ports. Display 1
2 is constituted by a liquid crystal display device, for example. The basic console 1B is further connected to the controller main body 21 of the library controller 2 by the transmission path 24 (FIG. 3), and connected to the controller main body 21 of the library controller 2 by the transmission path 25, A main drive control unit 61 (FIG. 3) connected to the drive control unit 70 of the console 1D.

The junction console 1J is used to extend the connection between consoles.
It is configured such that one side of itself can be connected to the front or rear surface of another console. Junction console 1J
As shown in FIG. 3, a junction port 18 having a mechanism for transferring a cassette K to and from another connected console is provided on one side of the upper console 11a of the basic console 1B. Is provided at a position corresponding to. An input / output port 17 having the same function as the input / output port 11 of the basic console 1B is provided on the front of the junction console 1J.
B is provided at a position corresponding to the lower port portion 11b. Further, the junction console 1J includes a basic control unit 8 for controlling a mechanism for transferring the cassette K at the junction port unit 18 and controlling the cassette transporter 16 and the like in an extended console row.
0 is provided. The basic control unit 80 controls the basic console 1
B is electrically connected to the basic control unit 60. In addition,
Other basic configurations of the junction console 1J are the same as those of the basic console 1B.

At the central portion inside the basic console 1B, the drive console 1D, the cassette console 1C and the junction console 1J, as shown in FIG. Is provided. In the transfer area 103, a guide rail 101 serving as a transfer path when the cassette transfer device 16 moves is provided along the transfer direction of the cassette transfer device 16. Further, on the side of the guide rail 101, an energizing rail 102 for supplying electric power to the cassette transporter 16 is provided.

The cassette transporter 16 has a transport area 103
Inside, the cassette K can be moved in the horizontal direction while holding the cassette K along the guide rail 101 by supplying electric power from the power supply rail 102, and the cassette K can be moved in each console by a vertical movement mechanism (not shown). Can be moved in the vertical direction (vertical direction) while maintaining the position. In addition, the cassette transporter 16
Although not shown, a mechanism for transferring the cassette K to each console is provided. For example, the cassette K taken in from the input / output port unit 11 of the basic console 1B is stored in a cassette storage shelf of the cassette console 1C. 1
5 can be performed. Further, the cassette transporter 16 has a cassette K
Has a barcode reader (not shown) for reading barcode information indicating an ID (identification information) added to the.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a network configuration in which a plurality of library systems shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 are connected by a communication network.

The communication network shown in FIG. 1 has a plurality of LANs (local information communication network: Local Area Ne).
work) 32-1, 32-2,..., 32-N (N =
An integer of 2 or more) and 32-R,
, 7-N and 7-R, a WAN (Wide Area Information Communication Network: Wide Ar) such as the Internet.
ea Network 6). Gateways 7-1, 7-2, ..., 7-N and 7
-R has a function of converting a communication protocol or the like between a plurality of communication networks so that the communication networks can be connected to each other.

In such a communication network, L
The library systems described above are connected to the ANs 32-1, 32-2,..., 32-N, respectively. LAN3
, 32-2,..., 32-N are cassette libraries 1-1, 1-2,
, 1-N and cassette libraries 1-1, 1-2,
, 1-N for directly controlling the main-side library controllers 2-1, 2-2, ..., 2-N (hereinafter, also simply referred to as "main-side controller 2M"). , 2-2, ..., 2-
N are connected to LANs 32-1, 32-2,..., 32-N. LAN 32-1, 32-2,
, 32-N further include a host computer 3-1.
3-2,..., 3-N and the mail servers 4-1, 4-2,
.., 4-N are connected. Host computer 3
-1, 3-2,..., 3-N and the main controller 2
, 2-N can be directly connected to each other by transmission lines 31-1, 31-2, ..., 31-N of the SCSI standard or the like.

The LAN 32-R has LANs 32-1 and 32-3.
2-2,..., 32-N, a remote-side library controller for remotely controlling a library system (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a “remote-side controller”).
2R and the mail server 4R are connected.

The main controller 2-1 and 2-
, 2-N and the remote controller 2R
.., 8-N and 8R via the modems 8-1, 8-2,..., 8-N and 8R.
, 9-N.

The remote controller 2R can remotely control the library system via a dedicated line using modem lines 9-1, 9-2,..., 9-N, and use electronic mail. And modem line 9-
It is possible to perform remote control via a general-purpose communication network other than 1, 9-2, ..., 9-N. The remote-side controller 2R is installed, for example, on the side that provides maintenance services for the library system, and is used to perform various services on the library system. The remote controller 2R is connected to the LAN 32
A plurality may be provided on -R. In addition, a plurality of LAs
The remote controller 2R may be installed on N.

.., 4-N
And 4-R are computers for managing transmission and reception of electronic mail. Mail server 4-1, 4-2,
.., 4-N and 4-R are POP3 (Post Office Protocol) for receiving e-mail when the e-mail is in the form of Internet mail.
ol 3) Server and SMTP (Si
mple MailTransfer Protocol
l) a server. The installation locations of the mail servers 4-1, 4-2,..., 4-N and 4-R are LANs 32-1, 32-2,.
Instead of 2-R, it may be on WAN6.

Here, in the network configuration shown in FIG. 1, the main controller 2M corresponds to a specific example of the "information recording / reproducing apparatus" of the present invention, and the remote controller 2R corresponds to the "remote controller" of the present invention. Control device ". The main controller 2M and the remote controller 2R correspond to a specific example of the “information recording / reproducing apparatus system” in the present invention.

In this embodiment, when the library controller 2 is described, unless otherwise specified.
The main controller 2M is shown instead of the remote controller 2R.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the library controller 2 (main controller 2M). The library controller 2 includes a screen control unit 41 for controlling the display device 23 and an input control unit 4 for controlling the input device 22 in the controller main body 21.
2, a SCSI controller 43 for controlling the connection between the host computer 3 and the library controller 2 according to the SCSI standard via the transmission path 31, and a control for connecting the communication network 32 and the library controller 2. And a network control unit 44. Each block element in the controller main body 21 is connected to each other by an internal bus 40.

The library controller 2 includes, for example, a serial line control unit 45 for controlling connection between the cassette library 1 and the library controller 2 via transmission lines 24 and 25 of the RS-232C standard,
A central processing control unit 46 configured to include a PU (Central Processing Unit) and the like, and performs overall control of the library controller 2 and substantial control of the cassette library 1, and performs basic operations of the library controller 2 itself. Read-only memory 47 storing basic programs and the like necessary for
And a temporary storage memory 4 serving as a work area used when the central processing control unit 46 executes a program.
8, a hard disk drive 49 for driving a built-in hard disk for storing various information such as a database relating to system information of the library system, and a floppy disk (in the figure, denoted as FD in the figure) for recording and reproducing information on the floppy disk. ) Drive 50
And A program for controlling the cassette library 1 is stored in a hard disk driven by the hard disk drive 49, and the central processing control unit 46 executes the program to realize a function of controlling the cassette library 1. It has become.

The controller main body 21 of the library controller 2 is further provided with a mail control unit 44b connected to the communication network 32 for performing control relating to transmission and reception of electronic mail. Mail control unit 44b
In the library controller 2, at least one of the error information (operation notification and error log, etc.) relating to the operation error of the library system and the usage information (operation history, system information, etc.) relating to the use of the library system are automatically transmitted by e-mail. It is provided to realize a function of transmitting data on the communication network 32. Further, the mail control unit 44b has a function of receiving an electronic mail including a processing request for the library system from the remote controller 2R transmitted via the communication network 32, and includes a processing request included in the received electronic mail. Has a function of transmitting, via the communication network 32, an e-mail including information on the library system based on the E-mail.

Here, the electronic mail transmitted from the library controller 2 is received by the remote controller 2R or the like, but the destination of the electronic mail can be set to a destination other than the remote controller 2R. . However, in the present embodiment, the destination of the e-mail including the information on the remote control is transmitted only to the remote controller 2R due to security. The remote control function using e-mail will be described later in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 10 shows a specific example of a control screen displayed on the display device 23 of the library controller 2. The library controller 2 is a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that allows a user to perform operations on a screen using a mouse or the like.
ce) The screen realizing the interface according to the environment is displayed on the display device 23 as a control screen.

The control screen shown in FIG.
This is displayed as a control main screen when the library controller 2 is activated. On this main screen,
A menu bar 93 or the like for instructing control of the library system is displayed in a predetermined area, and information on the basic configuration of the cassette library 1 is intuitively displayed in a predetermined area (area 92 in FIG. 10). The graphic is displayed in a form that can be understood from FIG. When the library controller 2 is activated, the library controller 2 acquires information indicating the current console configuration, such as the type of console and the connection relationship between the consoles, from the cassette library 1 and performs a diagram based on the acquired information. A graphic screen in a form as shown in the area 92 of 10 is displayed.

The main screen shown in FIG. 10 is a display example in a case where the cassette library 1 has a configuration as shown in FIG. That is, as shown in FIG. 9, the cassette library 1 is connected to the basic console B, a console row L1 in which the drive console D1 is connected to one side of the basic console B, and the front side of the drive console D1. This figure shows a case where a junction console J and a console row L2 in which a drive console D2 is connected to one side surface of the junction console J are provided.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a main part of a functional configuration of the library controller 2 (main controller 2M). The library controller 2 includes an input device 22, a display device 23, and a control function unit 55 having a function of controlling the cassette library 1. The control function unit 55 includes a main control unit 51 that functions to perform overall control of the library controller 2 and substantial control of the cassette library 1, and the main control unit 5.
1, a screen control unit 52 that functions to control the display device 23 and an input control unit 53 that is connected to the main control unit 51 and functions to control the input device 22.
A storage unit 54 that functions to store various information such as a database relating to system information of the library system.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the remote controller 2R (FIG. 1). The remote-side controller 2R includes a screen control unit 41R for controlling a display device 23R as a display unit and an input for controlling an input device 22R as an input unit in a controller main body 21R as a remote control unit. Control unit 42R
, The communication network 32 and the remote controller 2
Network control unit 4 for controlling connection to R
4R. In addition, each block element in the controller main body 21R is connected to each other by an internal bus 40R.

The remote controller 2R includes, for example, a CPU and the like, and includes a central processing controller 46R that controls the entire remote controller 2R.
A read-only memory 47R storing a basic program and the like necessary for performing basic operations of the remote controller 2R itself, and a temporary storage serving as a work area used when the central processing control unit 46R executes the program, for example. Memory 48R, a hard disk drive 49R for driving a built-in hard disk that stores various information such as system information of the library system acquired from the main controller 2M, and a floppy disk (not shown) for recording and reproducing information on the floppy disk. In the figure, it is described as FD.) A drive 50R is provided. A program for performing remote control of the main controller 2M is stored in a hard disk driven by the hard disk drive 49R.
The R realizes a function of controlling the main controller 2M by executing this program.

The controller body 21R of the remote-side controller 2R is further provided with a mail control unit 44Rb connected to the communication network 32 for performing basic control relating to transmission and reception of electronic mail. The mail control unit 44Rb has a function of receiving an e-mail attached with various information such as error information on an operation error of the library system and usage information on use of the library system transmitted from the main controller 2M. In addition, the mail control unit 44Rb has a function of transmitting an e-mail including a processing request for causing the library system to perform predetermined processing via the communication network 32, and has a function of transmitting the e-mail.
Has a function of receiving, via the communication network 32, an e-mail including various information on the library system based on the processing request of the remote-side controller 2R transmitted from the remote controller 2R.

As described above, the remote controller 2R
Has a function of transmitting and receiving an e-mail to and from the main controller 2M. However, the remote controller 2R can receive an e-mail by using a general-purpose e-mail transmission / reception software program. It is possible. However, in the present embodiment, the transmission and reception of e-mail including information related to remote control does not use a general-purpose e-mail transmission / reception software program for security reasons. It can be done only by a software program for

FIG. 24 shows a specific example of a control screen displayed on the display device 23R of the remote controller 2R. The remote-side controller 2R
Similar to the control screen of the main-side controller 2M shown in FIG. 10, a screen realizing an interface based on a GUI environment that allows a user to perform operations on the screen using a mouse or the like is displayed on the display device 23R. It is supposed to.

The control screen shown in FIG.
This is displayed as a control main screen when the remote controller 2R is activated. On the main screen, a menu bar 93R or the like for instructing control of the library system is displayed in a predetermined area. Further, information on the basic configuration of the cassette library 1 is as follows.
Graphically displayed in a predetermined area (the area 92R in FIG. 24) in an intuitive manner. The remote controller 2R is connected to the main controller 2M via a communication network or a dedicated modem line.
24, information indicating the current configuration of the console, such as the type of console in the cassette library 1 and the connection relationship between the consoles, is acquired. A graphic screen in a form based on the obtained information is displayed.

The screen display shown in FIG. 24 is a state before the information of the cassette library 1 is obtained from the main controller 2M, and the image 301 displayed in the area 92R is a specific image of the cassette library 1. It does not indicate the configuration.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the basic console 1B. The basic console 1B is connected to the controller main body 21 of the library controller 2 (main controller 2M) via the transmission line 24, and controls the basic console 1B itself, the transport control of the cassette transporter 16, and the like. , The controller body 2 of the library controller 2 through the transmission path 25
1 and a main drive control unit 61 that is connected to the drive control unit 70 of the drive console 1D and controls the drive control unit 70 to control the drive device 13. The main drive control unit 61
For example, it is realized by a microcomputer.

The basic control unit 60 is a communication line between the console control unit 62 for controlling each component block in the basic control unit 60 and the transfer control of the cassette transfer device 16 and the extended console rows L2 and L3. An inter-console-row communication unit 63 for performing communication via the base 72; a console-configuration collecting unit 64 for collecting information on the configuration of each console constituting the basic console row L1 including the basic console 1B; A display control unit 6 for controlling display of a display unit 12 (FIG. 2) provided on a front surface of the console 1B;
5, an input / output port control unit 66 for controlling a cassette K transfer mechanism in an input / output port unit 11 (FIG. 2) provided on the front of the basic console 1B, and an infrared A transfer device communication section 67 for performing control communication by 71. Basic control unit 6
0 are connected to each other by an internal bus 68. The console control unit 62 is realized by, for example, a microcomputer.

The console configuration collecting section 64 includes configuration information transmitting sections 10B, 10D ₁₁ , 10C ₁₁ , and 10 of each console constituting the basic console row L1.
D ₁₂ ,. . . , Information about the configuration of each console is collected.

The console control unit 62 receives information on the configuration of the consoles in the basic console row L 1 obtained by the console configuration collection unit 64 and the consoles in the other console rows received via the inter-console row communication unit 63. Information on the configuration is transmitted to the library controller 2. These pieces of information sent from the console control unit 62 are collected as system information when the library controller 2 performs a system information creation process, for example.

FIG. 8 shows a junction console 1J _j
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of (j = 1, 2). Junction console 1 J _j is the junction console 1 J _j own control and junction console 1
Console row Li (i = 2, extended by J _j)
In 3) the basic control unit 80 for controlling the conveyance or the like of the cassette conveying motor 16, carried out the control of the drive unit 13 relative to the drive control unit 70 in the console string extended by the junction console 1 J _j if necessary And a main drive control unit 81 for controlling the operation. The main drive control unit 81 includes a drive console 1D
Are used for interfacing with the main drive control unit 61 of the basic console 1B and the drive control units 70 in the plurality of drive consoles 1D.

The basic control unit 80 includes a console control unit 82
A console line communication unit 83, a console configuration collection unit 84, a display control unit 85, and an input / output port control unit 86
And a transporter communication section 87. The console configuration collection unit 84 includes configuration information transmission units 10J, 10D _i1 , 1 of the respective consoles constituting the extended console row Li.
0C _i1 , 10D _i2,. . . , Information about the configuration of each console is collected. Further, the basic control unit 80 has a junction port control unit 89 for controlling a mechanism for transferring the cassette K in the junction port unit 18 (FIG. 3) provided on the side surface of the junction console 1J. Each block element of the basic control unit 80 is connected to each other by an internal bus 88. The junction port control unit 8
Each block element of the basic control unit 80 except 9 has basically the same function as each block element of the basic control unit 60 of the basic console 1B.

[0059] Incidentally, the console control unit 82 (in the example of FIG. 3, the console column L1) junction console 1J other console _{column j} is connected from the console of the configuration information sending unit of the information about the configuration is sent Is coming. For example, in the case of a junction console 1 J _1, from the configuration information sending unit _{10D 11} drive console _{1D 11} in FIG. 7, the information 90 about the configuration, the console control unit in FIG 82
To be sent to This makes it possible to recognize the connection relationship between the console rows.

Next, the operation of the library system configured as described above will be described. First, the overall operation of the library system will be described.

When the library controller 2 (main controller 2M) is activated, the display device 23 of the library controller 2 displays G as shown in FIG.
A main screen for control by the UI environment is displayed. The user performs various settings for controlling the library system by performing an operation using a mouse or the like on the displayed main screen for control.

The library controller 2 responds to a request from the host computer 3 and
For the basic console 1B, the desired cassette K is
A command for moving the input / output port unit 11 of the basic console 1B, the cassette storage shelf 15 of the cassette console 1C, the drive device 13 of the drive console 1D, and the like using the cassette transporter 16 and the drive console 1D. The drive device 13 transmits a command for recording or reproducing information. Cassette K
Is transmitted to the basic control unit 60 of the basic console 1B via the transmission path 24. In the drive device 13, a command for recording or reproducing information is transmitted via the transmission line 25 to the main drive control unit 6 of the basic console 1 </ b> B.
1 is sent.

The basic control unit 60 controls the cassette transporter 16 based on a command received from the library controller 2 via the transmission path 24. The control from the basic control unit 60 to the cassette transporter 16 is performed by the transporter communication unit 67.
This is performed by infrared communication via (FIG. 7). Based on the control from the basic control unit 60, for example, the cassette transporter 16 can control the input / output port unit 11 of the basic console 1B.
The cassette K taken in from the cassette console 1
The transport operation is performed such that the transport is performed to and transferred to the cassette storage shelf 15 of C. In the console row extended by the junction console 1J, the basic control unit 80 of the junction console 1J receives a command from the library controller 2 from the basic control unit 60 of the basic console 1B, and transfers the cassette in the extended console row. The machine 16 is controlled in the same manner as the basic control unit 60.

The main drive control section 61 receives a command from the library controller 2 received via the transmission path 25 and sends a command to the drive control section 70 of the drive console 1D.
, And controls the drive device 13 to record and reproduce information. The drive control unit 70
Under the control of the main drive control section 61, the drive device 13 is caused to record and reproduce information.

Here, the contents displayed in the area 92 of the main screen shown in FIG. 10 will be briefly described. In the present embodiment, when the state of each part in the cassette library 1 (hereinafter referred to as status) can be displayed by characters such as characters and symbols, the status is displayed by characters as shown in FIG. I am trying to do it. For example, in the status display area 95 in the display part of the basic console B and the junction console J, the status of the entire cassette library 1 including the cassette transporter 16 or, when there are a plurality of console rows, the status of the entire console row L1. Among the statuses of the cassette transporter 16, the one with the highest priority is displayed. For example, "Ready"
Indicates that the cassette transporter 16 is operable, and “Not Ready” indicates that the cassette transporter 16 is not operable.

In the status display area 96 in the display portion of the drive consoles D1 and D2, the status of the drive consoles D1 and D2 having a higher priority is displayed. For example, "Fan 1 St
"op" indicates that the first cooling fan in the drive consoles D1 and D2 is stopped.

In the drive status display area 97 in the display portion of the drive consoles D1 and D2, the status of the drive device 13 having a higher priority is displayed. For example, "Tape In"
“No Tape” indicates that the cassette K is not contained in the drive device 13, and “Write” indicates that the cassette K is not contained in the drive device 13.
It indicates that the drive device 13 is writing, and “R
“head” indicates that the drive device 13 is reading, “No Use” indicates that the drive device 13 is not used, and “No Communication”.
“ion” indicates that the drive device 13 cannot communicate or power is not supplied.

In the cassette status display area 98 in the display portion of the drive console, the ID (identification information) of the cassette K contained in the drive device 13 is displayed.

Although not shown in the present embodiment, the status regarding the cassette console 1C is as follows.
The main statuses of the cassette console 1C, for example, the total number of storage units (“All”), the number of storage units used (“Used”), and the number of open storage units (“ Free ") is displayed.

Next, various functions using electronic mail, which are features of the library system according to the present embodiment, will be described. In the following, a case will be described in which POP3 is used as a protocol (communication protocol) for receiving an e-mail and SMTP is used as a protocol for sending. However, a protocol other than POP3 and SMTP may be used as a protocol used for sending and receiving e-mail.

In the present embodiment, the library controller 2 (main controller 2M) has two types of information notification functions using electronic mail. One is a function of periodically notifying the usage information of the system at a set time (hereinafter, also referred to as a “regular report function”).
The other is a function of notifying error information when any operation error occurs in the library system (hereinafter, also referred to as an “error report function”).
Further, the library controller 2 has a function of receiving a remote control from the remote controller 2R by transmitting and receiving an electronic mail with the remote controller 2R (FIG. 1). In the following, of the functions using the e-mail, a description will be given mainly of a part related to a remote control function (hereinafter, also referred to as a “remote maintenance function”) which is a feature of the library system of the present embodiment. Do. In order to use these functions using e-mail, it is necessary to first make basic settings for a mail server that manages transmission and reception of e-mail.

FIG. 12 shows a specific example of a basic setting screen (Set Mail Server dialog box) in the main controller 2M for using various functions by e-mail. The setting screen shown in FIG. 11 is a setting screen commonly used for the two types of information notification function using e-mail and the remote control function. As shown in FIG. ) On the control main screen displayed in [S] in the menu bar 91.
setup] menu and pull-down menu 9
3 is displayed, and [Ma] in the pull-down menu 93 is displayed.
The menu is displayed by selecting a [Server] menu 110S in the [il] menu 110. Each menu can be selected, for example, by moving the mouse pointer to a display portion of the menu to be selected on the screen and performing a left-click operation on the mouse. In addition, this setting screen is displayed in the "x" displayed at the top right of the screen.
The button 137 can be closed by left-clicking with the mouse.

The setting screen includes a plurality of boxes 121 to 133 in which setting information can be input in the form of text or the like.
And a plurality of setting buttons 134 to 136 for various settings. Of these, the check box 121
This part is used to make settings for selecting whether to use the e-mail function. When using the e-mail function, a check mark as shown in FIG. The display / non-display of the check mark can be selected by, for example, moving the mouse pointer to the check box 121 and left-clicking the mouse. Text boxes 122 to 129
Is a part for mainly inputting settings for the mail server.

The text box 122 is for setting the host name of the SMTP server used for sending e-mail, and the text box 123 is for setting the port number of the SMTP server. The text box 124 contains a PO used for receiving an e-mail.
The text box 125 is for setting the host name of the P3 server, and the text box 125 is for setting the port number of the POP3 server. Text boxes 125, 126
Are sections for setting a user name and a password for the library controller 2 to be used when connecting to the POP3 server.

The text boxes 128 and 129 are for the remote-side controller 2R using electronic mail (FIG. 1).
This is a part for setting a time interval (POP3 Check Interval) for confirming the e-mail transmitted from the remote-side controller 2R to the POP3 server. The library controller 2 (main controller 2M) sends a remote controller 2R to the POP3 server connected on the communication network.
First operation mode (Normal), which is a normal operation mode for checking whether or not there is an e-mail from
And POP at a time interval shorter than the first operation mode.
There is a second operation mode (Maintenance) for checking whether or not there is an e-mail from the remote controller 2R for the three servers. The text box 128 can change the setting of the confirmation time interval in the first operation mode in minutes, and the text box 129 can change the setting of the confirmation time interval in the second operation mode in seconds. is there.

When the library controller 2 receives an electronic mail including a processing request related to remote control from the remote controller 2R while operating in the first operation mode set in the text box 128, The operation mode shifts to operation mode 2. When operating in the second operation mode set in the text box 129, if the presence of an electronic mail from the remote controller 2R cannot be confirmed within a predetermined period, the library controller 2 performs the first operation. Move to operation mode.

The text box 130 is a part for setting a port number (Mailif Port No.) of the library controller 2 used for sending and receiving electronic mail. Boxes 131 to 133 are sections for inputting and setting the model name (model name, etc.), system number (serial number), and site name (name of the installation location of the library system, etc.) of the library system, respectively. The information of the library system input to the boxes 131 to 133 is the so-called “From” of the transmitted e-mail.
Line "and the beginning of the text. Box 131 for inputting the model name of the library system
Although not shown, it is a so-called drop-down list format, in which a system corresponding to the library system currently used is selected from a list of a plurality of model names prepared in advance. Box 13
The drop-down list in 1 can be displayed, for example, by left-clicking the right end of the box with the mouse. In the setting screen shown in FIG. 12, setting items in boxes other than the box 131 can be input by, for example, direct input using a keyboard.

The OK button 134 is used for the boxes 121 to 1
The button is pressed when the setting for 33 is completed (left mouse click operation). A cancel (Cancel) button 135 is pressed to cancel the settings. Help
The button 136 is pressed to display a help screen for explanation as shown in FIG. 13 relating to this setting screen.

Next, a setting screen relating to the remote maintenance function in the main controller 2M will be described.

FIG. 15 shows a specific example of a setting screen (Remote Maintance window) for using the remote maintenance function in the main controller 2M. As shown in FIG. 14, this setting screen is displayed on the main screen for control displayed on the display device 23 (FIG. 2) by selecting [S
setup] menu and pull-down menu 9
3 is displayed, and [Re] in the pull-down menu 93 is displayed.
The menu is displayed by selecting a “Mote Maintance” menu 120. Selection of each menu,
For example, this can be performed by moving the mouse pointer to a display portion of a menu to be selected on the screen and performing a left-click operation on the mouse. Note that this setting screen can be closed by performing a left-click operation with a mouse on a button marked “x” displayed at the upper right of the screen.

This setting screen is a display area (Remote Access Control) for displaying registration information of the side (remote controller 2R) that controls the main controller 2M by the remote maintenance function.
List box) 361 and a plurality of setting buttons 361A, 361 for changing the registered contents of the remote controller 2R displayed in the display area 361.
B, 361C and a display area (Remote Connecting Use) for displaying information on the remote controller 2R accessing the main controller 2M.
rs list box) 362 and a disconnect (Disconnect) button 362 pressed to disconnect the access to the remote controller 2R being accessed.
A. Further, this setting screen has a close (Close) button 363 and a help (Help) button 364. Close button 363
Is pressed to close this setting screen (left mouse click operation). The help button 364 is pressed to display a help screen for explanation as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 relating to this setting screen.

The display area 361 displays registration information of the remote controller 2R using the remote maintenance function. The registration information displayed in the display area 361 includes, for example, the host name (Host) of the remote controller 2R and the operation mode (Mo) permitted for the remote controller 2R, as illustrated.
de) and an optional comment (Comment) for the remote-side controller 2R.

The operation modes permitted for the remote controller 2R include, for example, a user (Use
r) mode, service (Service) mode, and disable (Disable) mode. The user mode is an operation mode in which only the library system can be mainly monitored. The remote controller 2R can acquire various information such as the operation state of the library system and system information. Control of the main operation cannot be performed. In the service mode, not only monitoring of the library system, but also the same major operation control as the main controller 2M can be performed on the library system. The disable mode is registered in the display area 361, but has no access right to the main controller 2M, and cannot control the library system at all. In the present embodiment, in the remote maintenance function using e-mail, only control in the user mode is possible, and remote control in the service mode is not possible. Basically, the service mode can be used only when a dedicated modem line for remote control is used.

FIGS. 42 and 43 are help screens explaining examples of functions that can be executed in the remote controller 2R in each operation mode. As shown in this help screen, remote controller 2
In R, for example, in the user mode, [R] in the [Setup] menu on the main screen shown in FIG.
emote Maintance] or [Log]
[View Log], [Take Lo] in the menu
g], [Copy Log] and [System I]
nformation] can be executed in the same manner as the main controller 2M.

An add button 361A is pressed when performing a new registration. For new registration, by pressing the Add button 361A, a registration setting screen (not shown) is displayed, and on the displayed setting screen, the setting contents such as the host name of the remote controller 2R and the permitted operation mode are input. Can be performed. The change (Revise) button 361B is pressed to change the settings of the remote controller 2R that has already been registered. To change the setting, in a state where the registration list of the remote controller 2R is displayed in the display area 361, after specifying the list of the remote controller 2R to be changed on the display area 361 with the mouse, the Revise button 361B By pressing, a setting screen (not shown) in which information (host name, operation mode, and the like) about the registered remote controller 2R is described, and the setting content on the displayed setting screen is changed. be able to.

The delete (Delete) button 361C is
Pressed to delete the registered remote controller 2R from the registration list. To delete the registration list,
In a state where the registration list of the remote controller 2R is displayed in the display area 361, after specifying the list of the remote controller 2R to be deleted on the display area 361 with the mouse, the Delete button 361 is displayed.
Executed by pressing C.

The information of the remote controller 2R being accessed displayed in the display area 362 includes, for example, the host name (Host) of the remote controller 2R being accessed and the login on the remote controller 2R as shown in the figure. User name indicating the name (Use
r), the operation mode (Mode) permitted for the remote controller 2R being accessed, the access date and time (Date) of the remote controller 2R,
There is an arbitrary comment (Comment) input at the time of access in the remote controller 2R.

Forcibly disconnecting access using the disconnect button 362A, the list of the remote controller 2R to be disconnected is displayed on the display area 362 while the list of the remote controller 2R being accessed is displayed in the display area 362. After designation by the mouse, the process is executed by pressing the Disconnect button 362A.

Next, information on the library system that can be obtained by the remote controller 2R using the remote maintenance function will be described.

The remote controller 2R can acquire management system information created in the library controller 2. Further, the remote-side controller 2R can acquire various operation progress information (logs) created in the library controller 2. The log created in the library controller 2 includes, for example, a mail log. The mail log is a log relating to an internal control process in the library controller 2 for operating the e-mail transmission / reception function, and can check the status of e-mail transmission / reception, for example, whether or not the e-mail has been successfully transmitted.

First, a mail log created in the library controller 2 will be described.

FIG. 19 shows a mail log display screen (Mai).
1 Log window). As shown in FIG. 18, this display screen displays a pull-down menu by selecting the [Log] menu in the menu bar 91 on the main screen for control, and displays [View Log] in the pull-down menu. Menu 21
It is displayed by selecting the [Mail Log] menu 210M in the menu item 0. Selection of each menu,
For example, this can be performed by moving the mouse pointer to a display portion of a menu to be selected on the screen and performing a left-click operation on the mouse.

The display screen includes a log display area 181 for displaying a mail log and a plurality of buttons 18 for various settings.
2-188, a search (Search) text box 191 and a Search button 192, 193 for searching for a specific character string in the mail log, and a generation for designating the generation of the mail log to be displayed in the log display area 181. (Generation) setting box 194
And

The mail log displayed in the log display area 181 stores the mail control section 44b in the library controller 2 when the regular report function, the error report function, and the remote control function by electronic mail are used.
It is a record related to various commands and data transmitted and received in FIG. In the example of FIG. 19, information such as the date and time when the mail log was recorded and commands issued in accordance with the transmission and reception of the e-mail are displayed as the mail log.
As described above, this mail log can be acquired by the remote library controller 2R by the remote maintenance function.

The close (Close) button 182 is
Pressed to close this display screen (left mouse click operation). Tail / Tail stop (Tail / Ta
The il-Stop) button 183 is displayed in the log display area 18.
After the log is displayed on the log No. 1, the log is pressed for the purpose of adding a newly generated log to the log display area 181 in real time. This tail / tail stop (Tail /
The “Tail-Stop” button 183 is displayed as “Tail” or “Tail” in response to pressing of the button.
-Stop ". For example, when the button is pressed in the “Tail” display, the button display changes to “Tail-Stop” and a log is automatically added to the log display area 181 in real time. "Tail-Sto
When the button is pressed in the “p” display, the button display changes to “Tail” and the real-time log display function in the log display area 181 stops.

Reload button 184
Is pressed to update the log display state in the log display area 181 to the latest one. Road (Loa
d) A button 185 is pressed to display an existing log saved with a file name in advance. The save (Save) button 186 is displayed in the log display area 18.
Pressed when saving the log displayed in 1 with a file name. Generation (Generati
An on) button 187 is pressed to specify a mail log generation. Specify the generation of mail log
This is done in the ation setting box 194. A help (Help) button 188 is pressed to display a help screen for explanation as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 relating to this setting screen.

[0097] The Search text box 191 is
When searching for a specific character string in the mail log, this is the part where the character string to be searched is input. To actually search for a character string, use the Search text box 191.
After inputting a character string, the Search button 19
By pressing 2,193, the search direction is specified. Se
The arch button 192 is pressed when searching the mail log in the upward direction of the log display area 181. Searc
The h button 193 displays the mail log in the log display area 181.
Pressed to search downward.

Next, the system information created in the library controller 2 will be described.

In the present embodiment, the library controller 2 collects system information as a plurality of management information classified by the functions or components of the library system for each function and component block element, and collects the plurality of collected system information. It has a function of collecting information into a system information file as information that can be output integrally. When the system information file is required, the user selects the [Log] menu in the menu bar 91 on the control main screen to display a pull-down menu as shown in FIG. [System Information] is a menu for instructing creation of a system information file in the menu.
on] menu.

[0100] The library controller 2 [Syst
When the [em Information] menu is selected, the system information file is created. The library controller 2 collects, for each function and component block element, system information as a plurality of management information classified by the function or configuration part of the library system as a process of creating a system information file, and collects the plurality of collected system information. Are integrated into data that can be output integrally, and a process of recording this data as a single system information file on a hard disk, for example, is performed. By the system information file creation processing by the library controller 2, a plurality of pieces of system information are collected into one system information file. The user can display the data of the system information file recorded in the hard disk as necessary, for example, on the display device 23 and refer to the data for system management.

When recording the system information file in the hard disk, the library controller 2 assigns a predetermined file name (for example,
The file name is “Sysinfo.txt”, and the file creation date and time, the serial number of the file corresponding to the file version, and the like are added. If there is a system information file recorded in the past on the hard disk, the past system information file is also left as data. In this case, a system information file newly created may be overwritten on a past system information file.

The library controller 2 selects, for example, as shown in FIG. 18, a [Take Log] menu from a pull-down menu displayed by selecting a [Log] menu in the menu bar 91. Also, when an instruction to collect a log, which is information on the past operation progress of the system, is issued, the system information file is created. In this case, the library controller 2 collects the system log, creates a log file which is data in a format that can be output to a floppy disk or the like, and stores the log file in the created log file.
The system information file created by the process of creating the system information file is attached. Further, the library controller 2 performs the initial processing such as detecting the position accessed by the cassette transporter 16 with a position detection sensor (not shown) in the cassette library 1 according to a user's instruction. When updated, the system information file is created.

FIGS. 22 and 23 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the data structure of the system information file created by the library controller 2, and show a series of data contained in one system information file. The system information collected by the library controller 2 includes the date and time when the system information was collected, the OS (Operating Sy
The information about the version (stem) is included. In the system information file, such information is located at the head of the data as shown in FIG. The system information includes the console configuration of the cassette library 1, the version of the library controller 2, the version of the console control system, the version of the drive control system, the serial number of the drive device 13, the version of the firmware of the drive device 13, and the version of the transport system. The information includes a position correction value, a coordinate value of the console, a use time of the transport system, a use time of the drive device 13, information on setup of the library controller 2, and the like.

Here, the information on the console configuration includes type information of the cassette library 1 and information on the console configuration. Library controller 2
Includes information on the version of the entire library controller and the version of each program module of the library controller 2. The information on the version of the console control system includes the version of the console control unit 62 (FIG. 7) and its self-diagnosis result, and the information on the version of the control board for other console control systems and its self-diagnosis result. I have. The information on the version of the drive control system includes the version of the main drive control units 61 and 81 (FIGS. 7 and 8) and the information on the version of each drive control unit 70. The information on the use time of the transport system and the use time of the drive device 13 includes the use time information / access number of the cassette carrier 16 for each console row, the use time information of the input / output port, and the information about the use time of the junction port. include.

The information relating to the position correction values of the transport system and the coordinate values of the console is obtained by, for example, initial processing in the cassette library 1 in which the position accessed by the cassette transporter 16 is detected by a position detection sensor (not shown). Information.

In the present embodiment, the system information as described above can be acquired by the remote controller 2R by the remote maintenance function as described above.

Next, setting of the remote maintenance function in the remote controller 2R will be described.

FIG. 26 shows a specific example of a basic setting screen (Set Mail Server dialog box) in the remote controller 2R for using various functions by e-mail. As shown in FIG. 25, the setting screen shown in FIG. 25 is similar to the case where the basic setting screen (FIG. 12) in the main controller 2M is displayed. In the main screen of [], [Se
Select the [tup] menu and select the pull-down menu 93
Is displayed, and [Mai] in the pull-down menu 93 is displayed.
[1] Menu 110 is displayed by selecting [Server] menu 110S in menu 110. Each menu can be selected, for example, by moving the mouse pointer to a display portion of the menu to be selected on the screen and performing a left-click operation on the mouse. In addition, this setting screen is displayed in the "x" displayed at the top right of the screen.
The button 137 can be closed by left-clicking with the mouse.

This setting screen is basically the same as the basic setting screen (FIG. 12) in the main controller 2M, and has a plurality of boxes 121 to 133 and a plurality of setting buttons 134 to 136. are doing. However, since the boxes 131 to 133 for inputting the library system model name and the like are unnecessary in the remote-side controller 2R, the boxes 131 to 133 are grayed out (a state in which characters in the boxes are disappeared) and invalidated (input is impossible). It is in a state of being left.

FIG. 28 shows a specific example of a startup screen (Remote Maintenance dialog box) for using the remote maintenance function in the remote controller 2R. The screen in FIG. 28 shows an initial display state in which no setting items have been input. The display state in which the setting items have been input is as shown in FIG. This startup screen is shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, on the control main screen displayed on the display device 23R (FIG. 5), the user selects the [Setup] menu in the menu bar 91R to display a pull-down menu 93, and displays this pull-down menu. The menu is displayed by selecting a [Remote Maintenance] menu 310 in the menu 93. Each menu can be selected, for example, by moving the mouse pointer to a display portion of the menu to be selected on the screen and performing a left-click operation on the mouse. Note that this setting screen can be closed by left-clicking the “320” button 320 displayed at the upper right of the screen with the mouse.

The start screen is used when the remote controller 2R starts or ends access to the main controller 2M by using the remote maintenance function, and is used for inputting various setting items. Boxes 321 to 323 and a plurality of buttons 324 to 327 pressed for various settings are provided.

The box 321 is a part for inputting information of the main controller 2M to be accessed using the remote maintenance function. The remote control of the main controller 2M is performed by a TCP / IP using a modem line.
The host name of the main controller 2M is input when performing the direct communication by the socket communication, and the mail address of the main controller 2M is input when performing the remote control using the e-mail function. This box 32
Although not shown, 1 is in a so-called drop-down list format. From a list of a plurality of model names prepared in advance, it is possible to select and input a model corresponding to the library system currently used. It is a possible method. The drop-down list in the box 321 can be displayed, for example, by left-clicking the right end of the box with a mouse. The input of the setting items in the box 321 may be performed by direct input using a keyboard.

The box 322 is for inputting the password of the main controller 2M to be accessed. The password input here is a password for the system administrator in the main controller 2M. The box 323 is a part for inputting an arbitrary comment to the main controller 2M. Although not shown, this box 323 is in a so-called drop-down list format, and is a system in which a desired comment can be selected and input from a list of a plurality of comments prepared in advance. . The drop-down list in the box 323 can be displayed, for example, by left-clicking the right end of the box with a mouse. Note that the input of the comment in the box 323 may be performed by direct input using a keyboard. This box 3
The comment entered in the display area 362 on the setting screen of the main controller 2M shown in FIG.
Will be displayed in the comment field.

The connect button 324 is
Pressed when starting access to the main controller 2M. Disconnect button 325
Is pressed to disconnect the access to the main controller 2M. Close button 326
Is pressed to close this startup screen. Help (H
elp) button 327 is used in FIG.
Is pressed to display the help screen for explanation as shown in FIG.

It should be noted that the Connect button 32
4 is pressed, for example, as shown in FIGS.
The message screen shown by is displayed. FIG.
Is an error message (No Host Name) screen displayed when a host name or an e-mail address required for access to the main controller 2M is not entered in the box 321. FIG.
An error message (No Password) displayed when a password has not been entered in the box 322
d) The screen.

FIG. 33 shows a connection confirmation (Connect?) For confirming whether or not access is really performed by e-mail.
(By Mail Interface) screen, which is provided with an OK button 331 to be pressed when executing access by e-mail, and a cancel button 332 to be pressed when canceling access by e-mail. On this connection confirmation screen, OK button 3
When the button 31 is pressed, the remote-side controller 2R executes access by e-mail, and connects to the connection information (Mail Interface Info) as shown in FIG.
display) screen. On the connection information screen shown in FIG. 35, a stop (Stop) button 341 pressed when stopping access by e-mail and a help screen for explanation about this connection information screen as shown in FIG. 37 are displayed. Help (Hel
p) button 327 is provided. In addition, for example, the mail address (Main PSC :) of the main controller 2M that is accessing is displayed on the connection information screen.
And the content (Acti
on :) and the elapsed time (Time :) from the transmission of the control signal from the remote controller 2R are displayed.

If the access by electronic mail cannot be executed for some reason, the remote-side controller 2R displays an error message (Disable Mail Interface F) as shown in FIG.
(action) screen is displayed.

FIG. 38 shows a display state of the main screen displayed on the display device 23R (FIG. 5) of the remote controller 2R when the access by the electronic mail is executed. The remote controller 2R, based on the information contained in the e-mail from the main controller 2M, operates the basics of the cassette library 1 on the accessed side similarly to the main screen (FIG. 10) displayed by the accessed main controller 2M. The information about the general configuration is graphically displayed in a predetermined display area 92R. Thereby, the remote controller 2R
Also, the library system can be controlled by the same screen operation as that of the main controller 2M. However, access by e-mail in the remote-side controller 2R is basically not possible for those requiring real-time control.
Menus and icons on the screen are grayed out except for parts that can be remotely controlled. In addition,
The information transmitted by e-mail from the main controller 2M has a format in which necessary data is collected in one or a small number of files so that the number of e-mail transmissions and receptions does not become too large.

When access by electronic mail is executed, the remote-side controller 2R further executes FIG.
A data update screen (Data Update dialog box) as shown in FIG. 39 is displayed on the display device 23R (FIG. 5) together with the main screen as shown in FIG. FIG.
The data update screen shown in FIG.
1, 352 and a plurality of buttons 353 to 355 are provided.

In the data update screen shown in FIG.
The check box 351 is a setting for selecting whether to use an automatic update function (Auto Update function) for automatically (periodically) updating the display state of the status screen displayed in the area 92 </ b> R of FIG. 38. Is the part that performs When the user uses the automatic update function,
The check box 351 is checked as shown in FIG. The display / non-display of the check mark can be selected by, for example, moving the mouse pointer to the check box 351 and left-clicking the mouse. A box 352 is a part for setting an update cycle when using the automatic update function.
The update cycle can be changed in minutes.

An update (Update) button 353 is pressed when the user manually updates the display state of the status screen displayed in the area 92R of FIG. When the Update button 353 is pressed, the remote-side controller 2R transmits an e-mail including a message requesting information necessary for updating the status screen to the main-side controller 2M. The Apply (Apply) button 354
This button is pressed when the contents set in 2 are validated as formal contents in the remote controller 2R. A help (Help) button 355 is pressed to display a help screen for explanation as shown in FIG. 41 regarding the automatic update screen.

Next, the operation of the remote maintenance function according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart.

First, the operation of the main controller 2M will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

As an operation of the main controller 2M,
First, an overall flow of a setting process for using various functions using electronic mail will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG. When the library system including the cassette library 1 and the main controller 2M is started (step S1), the main controller 2M sets the console configuration collection unit 64 of the basic console 1B (FIG. 7).
And the information collected by the console configuration collection unit 84 (FIG. 8) of the junction console 1J as library configuration information, and displays a main screen as shown in FIG.
(Step S2). Note that the main screen shown in FIG. 10 is a display example when the cassette library 1 has the configuration shown in FIG. 9, and information on the basic configuration of the cassette library 1 is displayed in a predetermined area 92.
It is graphically displayed in an intuitive manner.

On the main screen as shown in FIG. 10, the main controller 2M selects the [Setup] menu in the menu bar 91 as shown in FIG.
[1] When the [Server] menu 110S in the menu 110 is selected (step S3: Y), the process proceeds to a basic setting process for using the e-mail function.
The selection of each menu on the main screen is performed, for example, by moving the mouse pointer to a display portion of the menu to be selected on the screen and performing a left-click operation on the mouse.

The main controller 2M displays a basic setting screen (Set Mail Server dialog box) for using the e-mail function as shown in FIG. 12 (step S4). Next, the main controller 2M monitors whether any of the setting buttons 134 to 136 is pressed on this basic setting screen until any of the buttons is pressed (step S5: N). In addition,
The main controller 2M includes, for example, a setting button 1
When the mouse pointer is moved to the display area of 34 to 136 and a left click operation of the mouse is performed, it is determined that the button at the position of the pointer is pressed.

If the cancel (Cancel) button 135 on the basic setting screen or the “x” mark button 137 on the upper right of the screen is pressed, the main controller 2M closes the basic setting screen (step S5: Y, step S9) Then, it is determined whether or not an instruction to stop the system has been issued (step S10). The main controller 2M receives an instruction to stop the system (step S10:
In Y), a system stop process (step S11) is performed, and the process ends. Also, the main controller 2
M returns to the processing of step S2 when the instruction to stop the system is not given (step S10: N).

When the help (Help) button 136 on the basic setting screen is pressed, the main controller 2
M displays a help screen for explanation as shown in FIG. 13 relating to the basic setting screen (step S5: Y, step S8), and returns to the processing of step S5.

Further, an OK button 134 on the basic setting screen is displayed.
Is pressed, the main controller 2M determines whether or not the setting contents of the setting boxes 121 to 133 on the screen have changed (step S5: Y, step S6). When there is no change in the setting contents (step S6: N), the main-side controller 2M closes the basic setting screen (step S9) and performs the processing from step S10. On the other hand, when there is a change in the setting contents (step S6: Y), the main-side controller 2M stores the data of the changed setting contents in a hard disk or the like (step S7), and then closes the basic setting screen ( Step S
9), perform the processing after step S10.

Next, the flow of processing relating to the remote maintenance function using electronic mail in the main controller 2M will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 45, when the library system including the cassette library 1 and the main controller 2M is started (step S401), the main controller 2M is set to use the e-mail function. Is determined (step S40).
2). The main controller 2M determines that the setting is to use the e-mail function when a check mark is added to the check box 121 on the basic setting screen shown in FIG. When the setting to use the e-mail function is not made (step S402: N), the main-side controller 2M next determines whether or not an instruction to stop the system has been issued (step S408). The main controller 2M is
When an instruction to stop the system is issued (step S40)
8: Y) includes a system stop process (step S40).
9) is performed, and the process ends. When the system stop instruction has not been given (step S409: N), the main controller 2M returns to the process of step S402.

On the other hand, if the setting has been made to use the e-mail function (step S402: Y), the main controller 2M then proceeds to the text boxes 128, 129 on the basic setting screen shown in FIG. E-mail confirmation cycle (POP3 Check I
(step S403), and if the time has not reached the set time (N), the process proceeds to step S408. The initial value of the confirmation cycle is set in the text box 128.
Is the value of the first operation mode (Normal) set in the above. When the set time has come (step S403: Y), the main-side controller 2M
A process for accessing the mail server and receiving an e-mail addressed to the user is performed (step S404). If the e-mail addressed to the user cannot be received (step S40)
5: N), the processing shifts to the processing shown in FIG. If the main controller 2M can receive the e-mail addressed to itself (step S405: Y), then the main controller 2M determines whether the received e-mail is valid (command specified by the e-mail). Is correct or not) (step S406), and when the mail is valid (Y), the processing shifts to the processing shown in FIG. On the other hand, if the received e-mail is not valid (step S406: N), the received e-mail is deleted (step S407), and the processing shifts to the processing shown in FIG.

When the main controller 2M cannot receive the electronic mail addressed to itself (step S405:
N) or when a valid e-mail has not been received (step S406: N), as shown in FIG. 46, the current e-mail confirmation cycle (POP3 C
Hack Interval) is the second operation mode (M
(step S411). The e-mail confirmation cycle is "Maint
If it is not “enance” (step S411: N), the main controller 2M proceeds to the process of step S408 shown in FIG. On the other hand, when the confirmation cycle of the e-mail is “Maintenance” (step S411: Y), the main controller 2M
Next, it is determined whether or not the check counter value indicating the number of times the e-mail has been checked with the mail server is 1 or more and less than 10 (step S412). Here, when the check counter value is 1 or more and less than 10 (step S412: Y), the main controller 2M adds 1 to the check counter value (step S413), and proceeds to step S408 shown in FIG. Move to the processing of. On the other hand, if the check counter value is not less than 1 and less than 10 (step S412: N), the main controller 2M sets the e-mail confirmation cycle to the first operation mode (Normal) (step S414).
The process moves to the process in step S408 shown in FIG. When the mode of the e-mail confirmation cycle is changed, the main-side controller 2M resets the check counter value indicating the number of times of e-mail confirmation to return to the initial value.

If the received e-mail is a valid e-mail in step S406 in FIG. 45 (N), as shown in the flowchart of FIG. It is determined whether the host name of the mail sender is permitted (step S421). The main controller 2M
Indicates the display area (Re) on the setting screen shown in FIG.
If the host name is registered in the “mote Access Control list box” 361, it is determined that the host name of the e-mail is permitted.

If the host name of the received e-mail is not permitted (step S421: N), the main-side controller 2M deletes the received e-mail (step S422), and as shown in FIG. The process moves to the process in step S408. On the other hand, if the host name of the received e-mail is a permitted one (step S421: Y), the main-side controller 2M transmits data (command) corresponding to the processing request (command) indicated by the received e-mail. The system acquires the system information of the library system, etc.) and deletes the received e-mail (step S423). Next, the main controller 2M returns to the remote controller 2R an e-mail attached with the data on the library system acquired based on the command included in the received e-mail (step S424). Next, the main-side controller 2M changes the e-mail confirmation cycle to "Maintenance" which is the second operation mode (step S2).
425), and sets the check counter value indicating the number of times the e-mail has been confirmed to the mail server to "1" (step S426), and proceeds to the process of step S408 shown in FIG.

Next, the operation of the remote controller 2R related to the remote maintenance function will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. Note that the flow of the basic setting process for using the e-mail using the basic setting screen of FIG. 26 in the remote controller 2R is almost the same as the flow of the setting process in the main controller 2M shown in FIG. The description is omitted because it is the same.

As shown in FIG. 48, when the remote controller 2R is activated (step S501), the remote controller 2R displays the main screen as shown in FIG. 24 on the display device 23R (FIG. 5). (Step S502). The screen display shown in FIG. 24 is a state before the information of the cassette library 1 is obtained from the main controller 2M, and the image 301 displayed in the area 92R is a display related to a specific configuration of the cassette library 1. It is not.

Next, the remote-side controller 2R selects the [Setup] menu in the menu bar 91R and the [Remote] in the pull-down menu 93 as shown in FIG.
When the [Maintenance] menu 310 is selected (step S503: Y), the process proceeds to a process related to the remote maintenance function. In addition, the remote-side controller 2 </ b> R selects [Remote
If the [Maintenance] menu 310 is not selected (step S503: N), it is determined whether or not an instruction to stop the system has been issued (step S5).
08). When an instruction to stop the system is given (step S508: Y), the remote-side controller 2R
A system stop process (step S509) is performed, and the process ends. If the instruction to stop the system has not been issued (step S508: N), the process returns to the main screen display process in step S502. The selection of each menu on the main screen is performed, for example, by moving the mouse pointer to a display portion of the menu to be selected on the screen and performing a left-click operation on the mouse.

[Remot] in the pull-down menu 93
When the “e Maintance” menu 310 is selected (step S503: Y), the remote controller 2R displays on the display device 23R a start screen (Remote Maintance dialog box) as shown in FIG. 28 for using the remote maintenance function. ) Is displayed.

The remote controller 2R monitors whether any of the setting buttons 324 to 327 has been pressed on this startup screen until any of the buttons is pressed (step S505: N). The remote controller 2
For example, R determines that the button at the position of the pointer is pressed when the mouse pointer is moved to the display portion of the setting buttons 324 to 327 and a left click operation of the mouse is performed.

When the close (Close) button 326 on the start screen or the "x" mark button 320 at the upper right of the screen is pressed, the remote controller 2R closes the start screen (step S505: Y, step S50).
7) Next, it is determined whether an instruction to stop the system has been issued (step S508). When an instruction to stop the system is given (step S508: Y), the remote-side controller 2R performs the system stop processing (step S508).
509) to end the processing. On the other hand, if the instruction to stop the system has not been issued (step S508: N), the remote-side controller 2R proceeds to step S5.
It returns to the process of 02.

A help (Help) button 3 on the startup screen
If 27 is pressed, the remote controller 2R
Displays a help screen for explanation as shown in FIG. 30 relating to this startup screen (step S505: Y, step S506), and returns to the processing of step S505.

When the Connect button 324 on the startup screen is pressed, the remote controller 2R, as shown in the flow chart of FIG. 49, displays “Main PSC” in the box 321 on this startup screen. It is determined whether or not the information of the main controller 2M to be accessed is input in the item (step S51).
1). If the item of “Main PSC” in the box 321 has not been input (step S511: N),
The remote controller 2R displays an error message (No Host Name) screen as shown in FIG. 31 (step S521), and monitors whether the OK button on the error message screen has been pressed until the button is pressed. (Step S522: N). When the OK button on the error message screen is pressed (step S52)
2: Y), the error message screen is closed (step S523), and the flow shifts to the processing of step S508 in FIG.

In the box 321 on the startup screen, "M
If the information of the main controller 2M to be accessed is input in the item of “ain PSC” (step S511: Y), the remote controller 2R
Next, “Pas” in box 322 on this startup screen
It is determined whether or not the password of the main controller 2M to be accessed has been input in the item of “sword” (step S512). "P" in box 322
In the case where the item “password” has not been input (step S512: N), the remote-side controller 2R
Is an error message (No P
password) screen (step S524),
It is monitored whether or not the OK button on the error message screen is pressed until the button is pressed (step S52).
5: N). When the OK button on the error message screen is pressed (step S525: Y), the error message screen is closed (step S526), and the flow shifts to the processing of step S508 in FIG.

In the box 322 on the startup screen, “P
If the password has been entered in the item of “password” (step S512: Y), the remote-side controller 2R then proceeds to “Main” in the box 321
It is determined whether or not the item entered in the item “PSC” is the e-mail address of the e-mail (step S513).
If the input content is not the email address of the email (step S513: N), the remote-side controller 2R performs a connection process with the main-side controller 2M by TCP / IP socket communication using a modem line.

If the input content is the e-mail address of the e-mail (step S513: N), the remote controller 2R then proceeds to FIG. 33 as shown in the flow chart of FIG. Connection confirmation (Conn
ect? A (by MailInterface) screen is displayed (step S531). Next, the remote controller 2R monitors whether or not the setting button has been pressed on this connection confirmation screen until any of the buttons is pressed (step S532: N).

A cancel button 332 on the connection confirmation screen
Or, if the “x” button at the top right of the screen is pressed,
The remote-side controller 2R closes this connection confirmation screen (step S532: Y, step S535), and FIG.
The process moves to the process of step S508 in FIG.

When the OK button 331 on the connection confirmation screen is pressed, the remote controller 2R determines whether or not the setting for using the e-mail function is made (step S532: Y, step S533). ). The remote controller 2R determines that the setting is to use the e-mail function when a check mark is added to the check box 121 on the basic setting screen shown in FIG.

If the setting for using the e-mail function is not made (step S533: N), the remote-side controller 2R sends an error message (Disable Mail Interface) as shown in FIG.
e Function screen is displayed (step S5).
34). Next, the remote-side controller 2R monitors whether or not the OK button is pressed on this error message screen until the OK button is pressed (Step S).
535: N). In this error message screen,
If the K button has been pressed (step S535: Y), the remote-side controller 2R closes this error message screen (step S536), and proceeds to the process of step S508 in FIG.

On the other hand, if the setting is to use the e-mail function (step S533: Y), the remote controller 2R realizes the e-mail transmission / reception function as shown in the flowchart of FIG. Then, a program for an internal process (Mail interface process) is started (step S541), and an e-mail including a predetermined processing request is transmitted to the main controller 2M (step S542). Next, the remote-side controller 2R sends an e-mail confirmation cycle (POP3C
Hack Interval) to “Maintenance”, which is the second operation mode (step S54)
3) Then, the check counter value indicating the number of times the e-mail has been checked with the mail server is set to "1" (step S544). In addition, the value of the e-mail confirmation cycle is
This is set in the text boxes 128 and 129 on the basic setting screen shown in FIG. Next, the remote-side controller 2R sends the connection information (M
aile Interface Information
n) Display or update the screen (step S54)
5) It is monitored whether a button on this connection information screen has been pressed (step S546).

When the stop button 341 on the connection information screen is pressed, the remote controller 2
R closes this connection information screen (step S546:
Y, step S547), and proceeds to the process of step S508 in FIG. Also, the help (He
If the (lp) button 342 is pressed, the remote-side controller 2R displays a help screen for explanation as shown in FIG. 37 relating to this startup screen (step S54).
6: Y, step S548), and return to the process of step S545.

If the button on the connection information screen has not been pressed (step S546: N) and the time of the e-mail confirmation cycle in the "Maintenance" mode set in the text box 129 has not come (step S549) : N), the remote-side controller 2R
The process returns to step S545.

On the other hand, when the time of the e-mail confirmation cycle has come (step S549: Y), the remote controller 2R accesses the mail server and sends the mail to its own address as shown in the flowchart of FIG. A process for receiving an e-mail is performed (step S551). Here, when an e-mail addressed to the user cannot be received (step S552:
N), the remote-side controller 2R then sends the current e-mail confirmation cycle (POP3 Check In).
terval) is in the second operation mode (Maintena).
nce) (step S56).
2). If the e-mail confirmation cycle is "Maintenanc
e ”(step S562: N), the remote-side controller 2R proceeds to step S5 shown in FIG.
It returns to the process of 45. On the other hand, if the e-mail confirmation cycle is "M
(in step S56)
2: Y), the remote-side controller 2R then:
It is determined whether or not the check counter value indicating the number of times the e-mail has been checked with the mail server is 1 or more and less than 10 (step S563). Here, if the check counter value is 1 or more and less than 10 (step S563: Y), the remote-side controller 2R
One is added to the check counter value (step S56)
4), the process returns to step S545 shown in FIG.
On the other hand, if the check counter value is not less than 1 and less than 10 (step S563: N), the remote controller 2R sets the e-mail confirmation cycle to the first operation mode (Normal) (step S565), and FIG.
The process returns to step S545 shown in FIG. When the mode of the e-mail confirmation cycle is changed, the remote-side controller 2R resets the check counter value indicating the number of times of e-mail confirmation to return to the initial value.

If the remote controller 2R can receive the e-mail addressed to itself (step S55)
2: Y), it is next determined whether the received e-mail is valid (whether the command specified by the e-mail is correct) (step S553). If the received e-mail is not valid (N), the received e-mail is deleted (step S561).
The process proceeds to 562. On the other hand, if the email is valid (step S553: Y), the remote controller 2R then sends the email received from the main controller 2M in response to a connection request (login (Login) command). It is determined whether or not there is (step S554).

When the received e-mail is a reply e-mail to the login command (step S554:
Next, the remote controller 2R issues a command (Load Ini) requesting the main controller 2M for system information of the library system.
Then, an e-mail including a “tear Data command” is transmitted (step S555). Next, the remote-side controller 2R sends the e-mail confirmation cycle (POP3 Che
ck Interval) is changed to “Maintenance” which is the second operation mode (step S55)
6) Then, the check counter value indicating the number of times that the e-mail has been checked with the mail server is set to "1" (step S557), and the process returns to step S545 shown in FIG.

On the other hand, when the received e-mail is not a reply mail to the login command (step S55)
4: N), the remote-side controller 2R
As shown in the flow chart of FIG.
The interface process closes (step S571) and an internal process (Mail inter) for realizing an e-mail transmission / reception function.
The program for the “face process” is stopped (step S572). Next, the remote-side controller 2R
A main screen as shown in FIG. 38 is displayed or updated based on data (Initial Data) such as system information of the library system acquired by the electronic mail (step S573). Thereby, the remote controller 2R changes the main screen displayed on the display device 23R (FIG. 5) to the accessed main controller 2R.
A display state similar to that of the main screen (FIG. 10) displayed by M can be set.

Next, the remote controller 2R transmits a data update screen (Data Upd) as shown in FIG.
ate dialog box) is displayed or updated (step S574), and it is monitored whether or not a button on the data update screen is pressed (step S575).

If the button on the data update screen is not pressed (step S575: N) and the operation on the main screen is performed (step S577: Y), the processing corresponding to the operation on the main screen is performed. (Step S578)
The flow shifts to the process in step S508 in FIG. The button on the data update screen is not pressed (step S575:
N), when no operation is performed on the main screen (step S577: N), the processing shifts to the processing of FIG. 54 described later.

On the other hand, if the button on the data update screen is pressed (step S575: Y), and the pressed button is the help (Help) button 355, the remote controller 2R performs the operation on this data update screen. A help screen for explanation as shown in FIG. 41 is displayed (step S576), and the flow shifts to the process of step S577.

When a button on the data update screen is pressed (step S575: Y) and the pressed button is the update button (Update) 353, the remote-side controller 2R transmits the data to the later-described FIG. Step S
The process proceeds to 583.

Further, the pressed button is applied (App
In the case of the “p.ply.” button 354, the remote controller 2R sets the setting on the data update screen to the automatic update function (Auto Upd) as shown in the flowchart of FIG.
ate function) is determined (step S581). Note that, as shown in FIG. 40, when a check mark is added to the check box 351 on the data update screen as shown in FIG. 40, the remote controller 2R determines that the setting is to use the automatic update function.

If it is not set to use the automatic update function (step S581: N), the remote controller 2R returns to the process of step S575 in FIG. On the other hand, if the setting is to use the automatic update function (step S581: Y), the remote controller 2R next determines whether or not the set update cycle has been reached (step S582). . Note that the set update cycle is the box 35 on the data update screen.
This is the cycle set to 2.

If the set update cycle has not been reached (step S582: N), the remote controller 2R returns to the process of step S575 in FIG.
On the other hand, when the set update cycle has been reached (step S582: Y), the remote-side controller 2R
Next, a command for an internal process (Mail interface process) for realizing the e-mail transmission / reception function is started (step S583), and a command for requesting system information of the library system to the main controller 2M (step S583). Load Initia
An e-mail including the “1 Data command” is transmitted (step S584). Next, the remote-side controller 2R sends the e-mail confirmation cycle (POP3 Check).
Interval) to the second operation mode “Ma
"intensity" (step S585),
The check counter value indicating the number of times the e-mail has been checked with the mail server is set to "1" (step S5).
86), and proceeds to the process of step S545 in FIG.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, an electronic mail including a processing request for causing the main library controller 2M to perform predetermined processing is transmitted from the remote library controller 2R to the communication network. The main library controller 2M receives the electronic mail including the processing request transmitted from the remote library controller 2R, and performs the processing based on the processing request included in the received electronic mail. Therefore, the remote-side library controller 2R can be used without a large capital investment.
Remote control from the user can be easily performed. That is, since the e-mail system has become very popular in recent years, the remote maintenance function according to the present embodiment can be implemented immediately by simply setting up the software without making a new initial investment. Can be used. Further, according to the present embodiment, an initial investment using a modem line or the like is unnecessary, and the subsequent telephone line usage fee can be reduced.

For example, 24 hours a day using a modem line
If the library system is monitored by always-on connection, a high line usage fee will be incurred, but according to the present embodiment, 24-hour monitoring can be economically and easily realized by using electronic mail. be able to. These effects make it possible to improve the quality of system maintenance services.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the remote library controller 2R and the main library controller 2M confirm with the mail server connected on the communication network whether or not an electronic mail exists. A first operation mode (Normal) which is a normal operation mode to be performed, and whether or not there is an e-mail from the remote controller 2R to the mail server at a time interval shorter than the first operation mode. And a second operation mode (Maintenance) for confirming the operation. When an e-mail is received during the operation in the first operation mode, the operation is shifted to the second operation mode and the second operation is performed. If the presence of an e-mail cannot be confirmed within a predetermined period during operation in the mode, the mode shifts to the first operation mode. Since the way in both the remote side library controller 2R and the main-side library controller 2M, it is possible to send and receive e-mail efficiently.

Further, according to the present embodiment, various settings of functions using e-mail can be made on the setting screen by GUI, so that function settings can be made easily and flexibly.

Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible. For example, the present invention can also be applied to a library system that uses various recording media such as a cassette-shaped recording medium other than a video tape cassette and a disk-shaped recording medium as the recording medium.

In the above-described embodiment, the library controller 2 may perform a process of creating a system information file in response to an instruction from the host computer 3.

[0170]

As described above, claims 1 to 8 can be used.
According to the information recording / reproducing apparatus according to any one of the above, or the information recording / reproducing system according to claim 18, the control means of the information recording / reproducing apparatus includes an electronic device including a processing request transmitted via a communication network. Since the mail is received and the processing is performed based on the processing request included in the received e-mail, it is possible to easily perform remote control from the outside without making a large capital investment. It works.

According to the remote control method described in claim 9 or the remote control device described in any one of claims 10 to 17, processing for causing the information recording / reproducing apparatus to perform predetermined processing is performed. Since the electronic mail including the request is transmitted via the communication network, it is possible to easily perform remote control from the outside without making a large capital investment.

In particular, according to the information recording / reproducing device according to the third aspect or the remote control device according to the seventeenth aspect, a display means capable of graphically displaying a setting screen for performing an operation setting regarding transmission and reception of an e-mail, Since there is provided input means for inputting setting information relating to transmission / reception of e-mail on the setting screen displayed on the display means, there is an effect that operation settings relating to transmission / reception of e-mail can be easily performed.

According to the information recording / reproducing apparatus of the eighth aspect, the control means checks whether the e-mail exists in the mail server for managing the e-mail connected to the communication network. A first operation mode, which is a normal operation mode for confirming whether or not there is an e-mail, and a mail server confirming whether or not an e-mail is present at a time interval shorter than the first operation mode. A second operation mode, and when an e-mail including a processing request is received during operation in the first operation mode, the process shifts to the second operation mode, and in the second operation mode, During operation, if the presence of an e-mail cannot be confirmed within a predetermined period, the mode shifts to the first operation mode, so that the e-mail including the processing request can be efficiently received. Possible There is an effect that that.

According to the remote control device of the thirteenth aspect, the remote control means sends the electronic mail from the recording / reproducing means to the mail server for managing the electronic mail connected on the communication network. A first operation mode, which is a normal operation mode in which it is checked whether or not there is, is provided. A second operation mode for confirming whether or not there is an e-mail. If an e-mail is received from the recording / reproducing means during operation in the first operation mode, the mode shifts to the second operation mode In addition, during the operation in the second operation mode, if the presence of an e-mail from the recording / reproducing means cannot be confirmed within a predetermined period, the process shifts to the first operation mode. An effect that it is possible to perform the e-mail received which is transmitted from the raw device efficiently.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of a network connection of a library system as an information recording / reproducing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view showing a basic configuration of a library system as an information recording / reproducing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an example of the overall configuration of the cassette library shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of a library controller (main-side controller) illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of a library controller on the remote side illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a library controller illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a basic console shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the junction console shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a plan view showing another example of the overall configuration of the cassette library shown in FIG. 2;

10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a control main screen (initial screen) displayed on the library controller shown in FIG. 2 when the cassette library has the configuration shown in FIG. 9;

11 is a setting screen (Set Mail Se) for using various functions by e-mail in the library controller (main controller) shown in FIG. 2;
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a screen operation for displaying an (ver. dialog box).

12 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a basic setting screen (Set Mail Server dialog box) for using various functions by e-mail in the library controller shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a help screen for explaining the setting screen shown in FIG. 12;

14 is a setting screen (Remote Maintena) for using a remote maintenance function by e-mail in the library controller shown in FIG. 2;
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a screen operation for displaying an (.ice window).

FIG. 15 shows a setting screen (Remote Maintena) for using the remote maintenance function by e-mail in the library controller shown in FIG.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example (an ance window).

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a help screen for explaining the setting screen shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing a help screen following FIG. 16;

18 is an explanatory diagram showing a screen operation for displaying a mail log display screen in the library controller shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a display screen of a mail log collected by the library controller shown in FIG. 2;

20 is an explanatory diagram showing a help screen for explaining the display screen of the mail log shown in FIG. 19;

21 is an explanatory diagram showing a help screen for explaining a mail log displayed on the display screen shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a data structure of a system information file created in the library controller shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing a data structure following the system information file shown in FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a control main screen (initial screen) displayed on the remote-side library controller shown in FIG. 1;

25 shows a basic setting screen (Set Mail Serv) for using a remote maintenance function by e-mail in the remote controller shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a screen operation for displaying an (er dialog box).

FIG. 26 shows a basic setting screen (Set Mail Serv) for using the remote maintenance function by e-mail in the remote controller shown in FIG.
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an (er dialog box).

FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing a screen operation for displaying a startup screen (Remote Maintenance dialog box) for using the remote maintenance function in the remote controller shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 28 is a startup screen (Remote Maintena) for using a remote maintenance function by e-mail in the remote controller shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a dialog box.

FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing a display state after setting items have been input on the startup screen shown in FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing a help screen for explaining the startup screen shown in FIG. 28;

31 shows an error message (No Host) displayed when using the remote maintenance function by e-mail in the remote-side controller shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a (Name) screen.

32 shows another error message (No Pa) displayed when using the remote maintenance function by e-mail in the remote controller shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a screen.

FIG. 33 shows a connection confirmation (Connect? (By) displayed when using the remote maintenance function by e-mail in the remote controller shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a (Mail Interface) screen.

34 shows still another error message (Dis) displayed when using the remote maintenance function by e-mail in the remote controller shown in FIG. 1.
Able Mail Interface Function
(ion) It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a screen.

FIG. 35 shows connection information (Mail Interface Information) displayed during connection with the main controller by the remote maintenance function using an e-mail in the remote controller shown in FIG.
(on) It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a screen.

FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram showing another display state of the message screen shown in FIG. 35.

FIG. 37 is an explanatory diagram showing a help screen for explaining the message screen shown in FIG. 35;

38 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a control main screen displayed after acquiring information of the main controller using a remote maintenance function in the remote controller shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a data update screen (Data Update dialog box) displayed when the remote maintenance function is used in the remote controller shown in FIG. 1;

40 is an explanatory diagram showing a display state after setting items are input on the data update screen shown in FIG. 39.

FIG. 41 is an explanatory diagram showing a help screen for explaining the update screen shown in FIG. 39;

FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram showing a help screen for explaining a remote maintenance function in the remote controller shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram showing a help screen following FIG. 42;

FIG. 44 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a basic setting process for using the e-mail function in the main controller illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 45 is a flowchart for explaining a processing flow of a remote maintenance function in the main-side controller shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 46 is a flowchart continued from FIG. 45.

FIG. 47 is a flowchart following FIG. 46;

FIG. 48 is a flowchart for explaining a processing flow of a remote maintenance function in the remote controller shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 49 is a flowchart following FIG. 48.

FIG. 50 is a flowchart following FIG. 49;

FIG. 51 is a flowchart following FIG. 50;

FIG. 52 is a flowchart following FIG. 51;

FIG. 53 is a flowchart following FIG. 52;

FIG. 54 is a flowchart following FIG. 53.

[Explanation of symbols]

1: cassette library, 1B: basic console, 1C
... cassette console, 1D ... drive console, 1
J: Junction console, 2: Library controller, 2M: Main side library controller, 2R
... Remote library controller, 3 ... Host computer, 4 ... Mail server, 6 ... WAN, 7 ... Gateway, 11, 17 ... I / O port unit, 13 ... Drive device, 14, 15 ... Cassette storage shelf, 16 ... Cassette transport Machine, 18 junction port, 21 controller body, 22 input device, 23 display device, 32 LA
N, 49: Hard disk drive, 60: Basic control unit, 61, 81: Main drive control unit, 62, 82: Console control unit, 63, 83: Console row communication unit, 6
4, 84: console configuration sampling unit; 70: drive control unit.

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 5B065 CA15 5B089 JA31 JA35 JB10 KE02 KE03 5D044 BC01 CC03 CC04 DE45 DE48 HL11

Claims (18)

[Claims] 1. A recording / reproducing means for performing at least one of recording and reproduction of information by using a removable recording medium, and a recording medium accommodating means having a plurality of accommodating portions each capable of accommodating the recording medium. An information recording apparatus comprising: a transport unit that transports the recording medium between any storage unit of the recording medium storage unit and the recording / reproducing unit; and a control unit that controls the transport unit and the recording / reproducing unit. A playback device, wherein the control unit has a function of receiving an email including a processing request to the information recording / reproducing device via a communication network, and performs a process based on a processing request included in the received email. An information recording / reproducing apparatus having a function of performing the operation. 2. The control unit further has a function of transmitting an electronic mail including information on the information recording / reproducing apparatus via a communication network based on a processing request included in the received electronic mail. The information recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: 3. The control means includes: a display means capable of graphically displaying a setting screen for performing an operation setting relating to transmission and reception of the e-mail; and a setting screen displayed on the display means, 3. The information recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising an input unit capable of inputting setting information regarding transmission and reception. 4. The information recording and reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the electronic mail is transmitted from a remote control device for remotely controlling the information recording and reproducing apparatus via a communication network. 5. The processing request includes a request for obtaining information for monitoring an operation state of the information recording / reproducing device in a remote control device for remotely controlling the information recording / reproducing device; Collects information on the information recording / reproducing device necessary for monitoring the operation state of the information recording / reproducing device in the remote control device, and transmits the collected information by e-mail via a communication network. 3. The information recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 2, having a function. 6. The processing request includes a request for acquiring operation progress information of the information recording / reproducing device, and the control unit collects operation progress information of the information recording / reproducing device and electronically collects the collected information. 2. The information recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information recording / reproducing apparatus has a function of transmitting the electronic mail via a communication network. 7. The information recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit can change a time interval for receiving the electronic mail. 8. A normal operation mode in which the control means checks with a mail server for managing e-mails connected to the communication network whether or not the e-mails exist. A first mode of operation,
A second operation mode for checking whether or not the e-mail exists with respect to the mail server at a time interval shorter than the first operation mode, and operating in the first operation mode. If the e-mail including the processing request is received, the process proceeds to the second operation mode, and the presence of the e-mail within a predetermined period during the operation in the second operation mode 2. The information recording / reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the confirmation is not performed, the mode shifts to the first operation mode. 9. A recording / reproducing means for performing at least one of recording and reproduction of information by using a removable recording medium, and a recording medium accommodating means having a plurality of accommodating portions each capable of accommodating the recording medium. An information recording apparatus comprising: transport means for transporting the recording medium between any storage section of the recording medium storage means and the recording / reproducing means; and control means for controlling the transport means and the recording / reproducing means. A remote control method for an information recording / reproducing apparatus, comprising: transmitting an e-mail including a processing request to the information recording / reproducing apparatus to the control means via a communication network. . 10. A recording / reproducing means for performing at least one of recording and reproduction of information using a removable recording medium, and a recording medium accommodating means having a plurality of accommodating portions each capable of accommodating the recording medium. An information recording apparatus comprising: transport means for transporting the recording medium between any storage section of the recording medium storage means and the recording / reproducing means; and control means for controlling the transport means and the recording / reproducing means. A remote control device for remotely controlling a reproduction device, the remote control device having a function of transmitting, via a communication network, an e-mail including a processing request for causing the information recording / reproduction device to perform a predetermined process. A remote control device comprising: 11. The remote control means further transmits an electronic mail including information on the information recording / reproducing apparatus based on a processing request of the remote control means transmitted from the control means of the recording / reproducing means, to a communication network. The remote control device according to claim 10, further comprising a function of receiving data via a remote controller. 12. The remote control device according to claim 11, wherein said remote control means can change a time interval for receiving said e-mail. 13. The remote control means checks with a mail server for managing e-mails connected on the communication network whether an e-mail from the recording / reproducing means exists. A first operation mode, which is a normal operation mode to be performed, and checking with the mail server at a time interval shorter than the first operation mode whether there is an e-mail from the recording / reproducing means. A second operation mode for performing the following. When an e-mail is received from the recording / reproducing means during operation in the first operation mode, the operation mode shifts to the second operation mode. While operating in the second operation mode, if the presence of an e-mail from the recording / reproducing means cannot be confirmed within a predetermined period, the operation shifts to the first operation mode. The remote control device Motomeko 11 wherein. 14. The processing request includes a request for obtaining information for monitoring an operation state of the information recording / reproducing device, wherein the remote control unit transmits the information request from the control unit of the recording / reproducing unit. A function of receiving, via a communication network, an e-mail including information on the information recording / reproducing device based on a processing request of a remote control unit,
The remote control device according to claim 10, further comprising a function of outputting an operation state of the information recording / reproducing device in a form capable of displaying an image based on information included in the received e-mail. 15. A display unit for displaying an image indicating an operation state of the information recording / reproducing apparatus based on information output from the remote control unit, wherein the remote control unit is displayed on the display unit. A function of automatically updating an image display indicating an operation state of the information recording / reproducing apparatus based on information included in an e-mail transmitted from the control means of the recording / reproducing means. Item 15. The remote control device according to Item 14. 16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein said remote control means is capable of changing a cycle of updating an image display indicating an operation state of said information recording / reproducing apparatus displayed on said display means. Remote control device. 17. A display means capable of graphically displaying a setting screen for performing an operation setting relating to the transmission / reception of the e-mail, and a setting screen relating to the transmission / reception of the e-mail on a setting screen displayed on the display means. 12. The remote control device according to claim 11, further comprising: input means capable of inputting information. 18. A recording / reproducing means for performing at least one of recording and reproducing of information by using a removable recording medium, and a recording medium accommodating means having a plurality of accommodating portions each capable of accommodating the recording medium. An information recording apparatus comprising: transport means for transporting the recording medium between any storage section of the recording medium storage means and the recording / reproducing means; and control means for controlling the transport means and the recording / reproducing means. An information recording / reproducing system comprising: a reproducing device; and a remote control device for remotely controlling the information recording / reproducing device, wherein the remote control device establishes a communication network with control means of the information recording / reproducing device. Remote control means having a function of transmitting an e-mail including a processing request to the information recording / reproducing apparatus via the remote control apparatus; An information recording / reproducing system having a function of receiving an e-mail including a processing request from a control device via a communication network and performing a process based on a processing request included in the received e-mail.