JP2005267150A - Information processing system, information processing method, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an excellent information processing system which can be virtually operated as one equipment, an information processing method, and a computer program. <P>SOLUTION: A plurality of CE equipments incorporated with a plurality of sub-processors are connected on the same network, and virtually operated as one CE equipment when the relation of a master and a slave is established between their equipments. When a user instructs processing to a certain CE equipment, an additional function to be performed simultaneously with the function is retrieved, and whether or not the CE equipment for processing each additional function exists on the network is judged, and the list of the additional functions is presented to the user. Also, the candidate of the storage destination of data prepared as the result of the processing of the additional functions are presented to the user. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing method, and a computer program for controlling operations of two or more devices connected to a network, and in particular, information for linking operations between two or more devices connected to a network. The present invention relates to a processing system, an information processing method, and a computer program.

  More specifically, the present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing method, and a computer program that virtually operate as a single device by a plurality of devices connected to a network performing distributed processing through cooperative operation. In particular, the present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing method, and a computer program that efficiently execute an additional function that can be performed in association with a commanded function on a single device.

  It is known that information resources can be shared, hardware resources can be shared, and collaboration among a plurality of users can be realized by interconnecting a plurality of computers via a network. As connection media between computers, there are various types such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), and the Internet.

  Recently, in particular, technologies such as computers and networks have deeply penetrated into ordinary homes. Information devices such as personal computers and PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) in the home, AV devices such as television receivers and video playback devices, various information appliances, and CE (Consumer Electronics) devices are mutually connected via the home network. It is connected. Such home networks are often interconnected to external wide area networks such as the Internet via routers.

  In this way, a usage form in which a plurality of AV devices are connected to the home network is assumed. However, until now, there is a problem that sufficient cooperation between AV devices has not been achieved.

  Recently, research and development related to grid computing technology that realizes high computing performance by cooperative operation of devices in order to link devices on a network in order to cooperate with each other (for example, patent documents) 1-5).

  According to this grid computing technology, a plurality of information processing devices on the network operate in a coordinated manner to perform distributed processing, and can virtually operate as one information processing device from the user.

  For example, when a plurality of information processing apparatuses having a recording reservation function are connected to a network, a recording reservation cooperation operation can be realized. In other words, when a plurality of information processing apparatuses link recording reservation operations via a home network, the information processing devices virtually operate as one recording device on the home network. Then, the user can make a recording reservation using any device connected to the home network using the user interface of any device.

  Furthermore, by cooperation of such a recording reservation function, it is possible to simultaneously record programs with overlapping reservation times (so-called back programs). Similarly, the playback operation of the recorded content can be linked between a plurality of devices, and simultaneous and synchronous content playback can be realized. By cooperating with the content reproduction function, the concept of channel switching can be introduced in content reproduction by simultaneously and synchronously reproducing the content recorded by different devices.

  According to such a single virtual device, even if the hardware resource and processing capability of the single device cannot meet the request from the user, they cooperate and operate on the network. By utilizing the surplus processing capacity of other devices, it is possible to meet the user's request and to realize a service that is not realistic with one normal device.

  In a system environment in which the system virtually operates as a single information processing apparatus, there is an additional function that can be performed simultaneously with the function of executing a command when a user commands a CE device to perform processing. There are things to do. In other words, if another function that uses data required for the instructed process is activated at the same time, the processes are efficiently executed. For example, when the video content playback function is activated, data processing such as encoding and scene recognition that can be performed using the read content corresponds to an additional function.

  Conventionally, when a process is commanded in a device that virtually operates as one device together with other devices connected to the network, it can be performed in association with the commanded function (for example, using the same data). Even if there is an additional function, the user must individually activate the function, and the operability is not good.

  In addition, although the commanded function and the additional function use the same data, sequential data processing is performed for each function, so that the operation as one virtual information processing apparatus is also efficient. Not right.

  In addition, even if there is an additional function that can be performed simultaneously or in parallel with the commanded function, is the equipment resource necessary to realize this additional function connected to the network? The user has to investigate whether or not the surplus processing capacity for executing the additional function can be secured as one virtual device, and the execution of the additional function is not realistic.

  For example, a plurality of peripheral devices that are connected to a network and perform predetermined image processing and an information processing device that can communicate with a server device that manages the peripheral devices have been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 6). ) In this case, it is possible to avoid a situation in which peripheral devices that do not include the function intended by the user are selected and displayed in a list, and to narrow down and clearly show the effective peripheral devices to be selected. However, a system in which a device having a fixed function is connected to a general-purpose device such as a PC is assumed, and can be used by a user in a system in which a plurality of devices that can execute a general-purpose function are connected on a network. It does not display only functions.

JP 2002-342165 A JP 2002-351850 A JP 2002-358289 A JP 2002-366533 A JP 2002-366534 A JP 2003-167711 A

  An object of the present invention is to provide an excellent information processing system, information processing method, and computer capable of operating virtually as a single device by performing distributed processing by a plurality of devices connected to a network through cooperative operation.・ To provide a program.

  A further object of the present invention is to provide an excellent information processing system and information processing capable of efficiently executing an additional function that can be performed in association with a commanded function on a certain device. It is to provide a method and a computer program.

The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and a first aspect of the present invention is an information processing system that operates as a single virtual information processing apparatus by a cooperative operation of a plurality of information processing apparatuses connected to a network. There,
Function management means for managing a correspondence relationship between functions executed in the virtual information processing apparatus and additional functions that can be executed in association with each function;
A function presenting means for presenting a function executable in the virtual information processing apparatus and accepting selection of a function by a user;
An additional function presenting means for searching for an additional function associated with the selected function in response to selection of the function in the function presenting means, presenting the function to the user, and accepting selection of the additional function by the user; ,
A function executing means for executing the function selected by the user and the additional function by any one of the information processing devices connected to the network;
It is an information processing system characterized by comprising. Here, the function management means manages the function by associating another function that uses data necessary for the process of executing the function as an additional function.

  However, “system” here refers to a logical collection of a plurality of devices (or functional modules that realize specific functions), and each device or functional module is in a single housing. It does not matter whether or not.

  Specifically, the information processing system according to the present invention operates as a single virtual information processing device by a cooperative operation of a plurality of information processing devices connected to a network.

  In such a system environment that virtually operates as a single information processing apparatus, when a user instructs a certain information processing apparatus on the network to execute a process, the function is executed simultaneously with the instruction. There are additional functions that can be performed, which may be possible to execute in other information processing apparatuses that cooperate on the network. In other words, if another function that uses data required for processing instructed by the user is activated at the same time, the system operation becomes efficient. For example, when the video content playback function is activated, data processing such as encoding and scene recognition that can be performed using the read content corresponds to an additional function.

  According to the present invention, whether or not there is an additional function that can be performed simultaneously with the function instructed to process the information processing apparatus by a user, and if there is, processing the additional function in the above system. It is possible to determine whether there is an information processing apparatus capable of processing and present it to the user as a list of additional functions that can be processed.

  Here, when a list of functions and additional functions is presented to the user, an information processing apparatus having a processing capability capable of executing these functions and additional functions is searched on the network. Then, a function or an additional function that has been found to be executable information processing apparatus may be presented to the user.

  Some functions or additional functions include a function for saving data generated when processing the function. In such a case, an information processing apparatus including a storage medium that can store data generated during processing of the additional function is searched on the network. Then, a function or an additional function that is known to have a data storage destination may be presented to the user.

A second aspect of the present invention provides a computer-readable format for executing processing on a computer system to link a plurality of information processing apparatuses connected to a network and operate as a single virtual information processing apparatus. A written computer program comprising:
A function management step for managing a correspondence relationship between a function executed in the virtual information processing apparatus and an additional function that can be executed in association with each function;
A function presenting step for presenting a function executable in the virtual information processing apparatus and accepting a function selection by a user;
In response to selection of a function in the function presentation step, an additional function presentation step for searching for an additional function associated with the selected function and presenting it to the user and accepting selection of the additional function by the user; ,
A function execution step of executing the function selected by the user and the additional function by any one of the information processing devices connected to the network;
A computer program characterized by comprising:

  The computer program according to the second aspect of the present invention defines a computer program described in a computer-readable format so as to realize predetermined processing on a computer system. In other words, by installing the computer program according to the second aspect of the present invention in the computer system, a cooperative action is exhibited on the computer system, and the information processing according to the first aspect of the present invention is performed. The same effect as the system can be obtained.

  Advantageous Effects of Invention According to the present invention, an excellent information processing system, information processing method, and computer capable of virtually operating as a single device by performing distributed processing through a cooperative operation among a plurality of devices connected to a network.・ Provide programs.

  In addition, according to the present invention, an excellent information processing system and information capable of efficiently executing an additional function that can be performed accompanying a commanded function on a certain device. A processing method and a computer program can be provided.

  According to the present invention, in a system in which a plurality of information processing apparatuses including a plurality of sub processors are connected on the same network and can be treated virtually as one information processing apparatus, Whether there is a function (additional function) that can be performed simultaneously with the function instructed to process, and if there is an information processing apparatus capable of processing the additional function in the above system By determining whether or not, it is possible to present only a list of additional functions that can be processed to the user.

  In addition, according to the present invention, only storage media that can be stored based on the system status at that time are shown to the user as to which storage media the data generated by executing the function requested by the user is stored. can do.

  In other words, according to the present invention, only the functions that can be processed by the system and the storage media that can be stored are presented to the user, so that the user can execute what is considered in the configuration of the system and can be stored anywhere. There is no need to be conscious of this.

  Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from more detailed description based on embodiments of the present invention described later and the accompanying drawings.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

A. System configuration The present invention makes it easy and efficient to perform a recording reservation operation in each device set in different places by suitably linking operations between two or more information processing apparatuses via a home network. is there. In order to link devices on the network, grid computing technology is used to achieve high computing performance through cooperative operation of devices.

  FIG. 1 schematically shows the configuration of a network system configured by applying grid computing.

  The network includes the Internet and other wide area networks, and private networks such as a LAN (Local Area Network) and a home network connected to the wide area network via a gateway or the like. The home network can be physically configured with a standard network interface such as 10BaseT, 100BaseTX, or Gigaether. Also, Upnp (Universal Plug and Play) can be used as a mechanism for finding other devices on the home network. According to Upnp, definition files described in XML (eXtended Markup Language) format are exchanged between devices connected to a network, and mutual authentication is performed through addressing processing, discovery processing, and service request processing. Alternatively, it can also be realized by broadcasting a packet describing prescribed device information in the same segment.

  A plurality of information processing apparatuses are connected on the network. Examples of information processing devices include AV devices equipped with recording media and having a recording reservation function, such as DVD recorders and HD recorders, or playback-only AV devices that do not have a recording function, such as compact discs, and other information A processing apparatus is mentioned. Another example of the information processing apparatus is a computer processing system such as a PDA or a personal computer. In the example illustrated in FIG. 1, a plurality of information processing apparatuses 1, 2, 3, and 4 are connected via a network 9.

A-1. Information processing apparatus and information processing controller Information processing apparatuses 1, 2, 3, and 4 are, for example, various AV (Audio and Visual) devices and portable devices (described later).

  As illustrated, the information processing apparatus 1 includes an information processing controller 11 as a computer function unit. The information processing controller 11 includes a main processor 21-1, sub processors 23-1, 23-2, and 23-3, a DMAC (direct memory access controller) 25-1, and a DC (disk controller) 27-1. . The information processing controller 11 is preferably configured as a one-chip IC (integrated circuit).

  The main processor 21-1 performs schedule management of program execution (data processing) by the sub processors 23-1, 23-2, and 23-3, and general management of the information processing controller 11 (information processing apparatus 1). . However, a program other than the program for performing management in the main processor 21-1 can be configured to operate. In this case, the main processor 21-1 also functions as a sub processor. The main processor 21-1 includes an LS (local storage) 22-1.

  One information processor may have one sub-processor, but preferably a plurality of sub-processors. In the illustrated example, there are a plurality of cases. Each sub-processor 23-1, 23-2, 23-3 executes a program in parallel and independently under the control of the main processor 21-1, and processes data. Further, in some cases, the program in the main processor 21-1 can operate in cooperation with the programs in the sub processors 23-1, 23-2, and 23-3. The sub-processors 23-1, 23-2, and 23-3 also include LS (local storage) 24-1, 24-2, and 24-3, respectively.

  The DMAC (direct memory access controller) 25-1 accesses a program and data stored in a main memory 26-1 including a DRAM (dynamic RAM) connected to the information processing controller 11 without the intervention of a processor. It is. The DC (disk controller) 27-1 controls access operations to the external recording units 28-1 and 28-2 connected to the information processing controller 11.

  The external recording units 28-1 and 28-2 may be either a fixed disk (hard disk) or a removable disk. As the removable disk, various recording media such as MO (magnetic disk), CD ± RW, DVD ± RW and other optical disks, memory disks, SRAM (static RAM), ROM and the like can be used. The DC 27-1 is called a disk controller, but in short, is an external recording unit controller. As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing controller 11 can be configured so that a plurality of external recording units 28 can be connected.

  The main processor 21-1, the sub processors 23-1, 23-2, 23-3, the DMAC 25-1, and the DC 27-1 are interconnected by a bus 29-1.

  An identifier capable of uniquely identifying the information processing apparatus 1 on which the information processing controller 11 is mounted is assigned as an information processing apparatus ID to the information processing controller 11. Similarly, identifiers that can specify the main processor 21-1 and the sub processors 23-1, 23-2, and 23-3 are assigned as the main processor ID and the sub processor ID.

  Since the other information processing apparatuses 2, 3, and 4 are configured in the same manner, description thereof is omitted here. Here, even if the unit having the same parent number has a different branch number, the same function is assumed unless otherwise noted. In the following description, when the branch number is omitted, it is assumed that no difference due to the difference in the branch number occurs.

A-2. Access to Main Memory from Each Sub-Processor As described above, each sub-processor 23 in one information processing controller independently executes a program and processes data, but different sub-processors are the same in main memory 26. If data is read from or written to the area at the same time, data mismatch may occur. Therefore, the access from the sub processor 23 to the main memory 26 is performed according to the following procedure.

  FIG. 2A shows a location in the main memory 26. As shown in the figure, the main memory 26 is composed of memory locations that can specify a plurality of addresses, and an additional segment for storing information indicating the state of data is allocated to each memory location. The additional segment includes an F / E bit, a sub processor ID, and an LS address (local storage address). Each memory location is also assigned an access key to be described later. The F / E bit is defined as follows.

  The F / E bit = 0 indicates that the data being processed being read by the sub-processor 23 or invalid data that is not the latest data because it is empty, and cannot be read. The F / E bit = 0 indicates that data can be written to the memory location, and is set to 1 after writing.

  The F / E bit = 1 indicates that the data at the memory location has not been read by the sub-processor 23 and is the latest unprocessed data. The data in the memory location can be read and set to 0 after being read by the sub-processor 23. Further, the F / E bit = 1 indicates that the memory location cannot write data.

  Furthermore, it is possible to set a read reservation for the memory location in the state where the F / E bit = 0 (read disabled / write enabled). When a read reservation is made for a memory location with the F / E bit = 0, the sub-processor 23 adds the sub-processor ID and LS of the sub-processor 23 as read reservation information to an additional segment of the memory location where the read reservation is made. Write the address.

  Thereafter, when data is written to the memory location reserved for reading by the sub-processor 23 on the data writing side and the F / E bit is set to 1 (readable / not writable), an additional segment is set in advance as read reservation information. Is read into the sub processor ID and LS address written in.

  When it is necessary to process data in multiple stages by a plurality of sub-processors, the sub-processor 23 that performs the process in the previous stage controls the processed data by controlling the reading / writing of data in each memory location in this way. Immediately after writing to a predetermined address on the main memory 26, it becomes possible for another sub-processor 23, which performs the subsequent processing, to read the pre-processed data.

  FIG. 2B shows the memory location in the LS 24 in each sub processor 23. As shown in the figure, the LS 24 in each sub-processor 23 is also composed of memory locations that can specify a plurality of addresses. An additional segment is similarly allocated for each memory location. The additional segment includes a busy bit.

  When the sub-processor 23 reads the data in the main memory 26 to the memory location of its own LS 24, it reserves by setting the corresponding busy bit to 1. No other data can be stored in the memory location where the busy bit is 1. After reading to the memory location of the LS 24, the busy bit becomes 0 and can be used for any purpose.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the main memory 26 connected to each information processing controller further includes a plurality of sandboxes that define areas in the main memory 26. The main memory 26 is composed of a plurality of memory locations, and the sandbox is a set of these memory locations. Each sandbox is assigned to each sub-processor 23 and can be used exclusively by the corresponding sub-processor. That is, each sub-processor 23 can use the sandbox assigned to itself, but cannot access data beyond this area.

  Further, in order to realize exclusive control of the main memory 26, a key management table as shown in FIG. The key management table is stored in a relatively high-speed memory such as SRAM in the information processing controller, and is associated with the DMAC 25. Each entry in the key management table includes a sub processor ID, a sub processor key, and a key mask.

  The process when the sub processor 23 uses the main memory 26 is as follows. First, the sub processor 23 outputs a read or write command to the DMAC 25. This command includes its own sub-processor ID and the address of the main memory 26 that is the use request destination.

  Before executing this command, the DMAC 25 refers to the key management table and checks the sub processor key of the sub processor of the use request source. Next, the DMAC 25 compares the checked sub-processor key of the use request source with the access key allocated to the memory location shown in FIG. Execute the above command only when two keys match.

  In the key mask on the key management table shown in FIG. 2C, when the arbitrary bit becomes 1, the corresponding bit of the sub-processor key associated with the key mask may become 0 or 1. it can.

  For example, assume that the sub-processor key is 1010. Normally, this sub-processor key only allows access to a sandbox with 1010 access keys. However, if the key mask associated with this sub-processor key is set to 0001, the match determination between the sub-processor key and the access key is masked only for the digit whose key mask bit is set to 1. The sub processor key 1010 enables access to a sandbox having an access key whose access key is either 1010 or 1011.

  As described above, the sandbox exclusivity of the main memory 26 is realized. That is, when it is necessary to process data in multiple stages by a plurality of sub-processors arranged in one information processing controller, only the sub-processor that performs the previous stage process and the sub-processor that performs the subsequent stage process, It becomes possible to access a predetermined address of the main memory 26, and data can be protected.

  Such exclusive memory control can be used as follows, for example. First, immediately after the information processing apparatus is activated, the key mask values are all zero. It is assumed that a program in the main processor is executed and operates in cooperation with a program in the sub processor. When the processing result data output by the first sub-processor is temporarily stored in the main memory and desired to be input to the second sub-processor, the corresponding main memory area must naturally be accessible from either sub-processor. is there. In such a case, the program in the main processor appropriately changes the value of the key mask and provides a main memory area that can be accessed from a plurality of sub processors, thereby enabling multi-stage processing by the sub processors. .

  More specifically, it is a multi-step process in the order of data from another information processing apparatus → processing by the first sub processor → first main memory area → processing by the second sub processor → second main memory area. When processing is performed, the second sub-processor cannot access the first main memory area with the following settings.

Sub-processor key of the first sub-processor: 0100
First main memory area access key: 0100,
Sub-processor key of the second sub-processor: 0101,
Second main memory area access key: 0101

  Therefore, by setting the key mask of the second sub processor to 0001, it is possible to allow the second sub processor to access the first main memory area.

A-3. 1. Generation and configuration of software cell In the network system of FIG. 1, a software cell is transmitted between information processing apparatuses 1, 2, 3, and 4 for distributed processing between information processing apparatuses 1, 2, 3, and 4. . That is, the main processor 21 included in the information processing controller in a certain information processing apparatus generates a software cell including a command, a program, and data, and transmits it to another information processing apparatus via the network 9 to perform processing. Can be dispersed.

  FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of the software cell. The illustrated software cell includes a transmission source ID, a transmission destination ID, a response destination ID, a cell interface, a DMA command, a program, and data.

  The transmission source ID includes the network address of the information processing apparatus that is the transmission source of the software cell, the information processing apparatus ID of the information processing controller in the information processing apparatus, and the main processor included in the information processing controller in the information processing apparatus 21 and the identifiers (main processor ID and sub processor ID) of each sub processor 23 are included.

  The transmission destination ID and the response destination ID respectively include the same information about the information processing apparatus that is the transmission destination of the software cell and the information processing apparatus that is the response destination of the execution result of the software cell.

  The cell interface is information necessary for using the software cell, and includes a global ID, necessary sub-processor information, a sandbox size, and a previous software cell ID.

  The global ID uniquely identifies the software cell throughout the network, and is created based on the transmission source ID and the date and time (date and time) of creation or transmission of the software cell.

  In the necessary sub-processor information, the number of sub-processors necessary for executing the software cell is set. As the sandbox size, the amount of memory in the main memory 26 and the LS 24 of the sub processor 23 necessary for executing the software cell is set.

  The previous software cell ID is an identifier of the previous software cell in a group of software cells that request sequential execution of streaming data or the like.

  The execution section of the software cell is composed of DMA commands, programs, and data. The DMA command includes a series of DMA commands necessary for starting the program, and the program includes a sub processor program executed by the sub processor 23. The data here is data processed by a program including the sub processor program.

  Further, the DMA command includes a load command, a kick command, a function program execution command, a status request command, and a status return command.

  The load command is a command for loading information in the main memory 26 into the LS 24 in the sub processor 23, and includes a main memory address, a sub processor ID, and an LS address in addition to the load command itself. The main memory address indicates an address of a predetermined area in the main memory 26 from which information is loaded. The sub processor ID and the LS address indicate the identifier of the sub processor 23 to which the information is loaded and the address of the LS 24.

  The kick command is a command for starting execution of the program, and includes a sub processor ID and a program counter in addition to the kick command itself. The sub processor ID identifies the sub processor 23 to be kicked, and the program counter gives an address for the program execution program counter.

  The function program execution command is a command for requesting execution of a function program from another information processing apparatus to another information processing apparatus (described later). The information processing controller in the information processing apparatus that has received the function program execution command identifies a function program to be activated by a function program ID (described later).

  The status request command is a command for requesting transmission of device information related to the current operation state (situation) of the information processing device indicated by the transmission destination ID to the information processing device indicated by the response destination ID. Although the function program will be described later, it is a program categorized into the function program in the software configuration diagram stored in the main memory 26 of the information processing controller shown in FIG. The function program is loaded into the main memory 26 and executed by the main processor 21.

  The status reply command is a command in which the information processing apparatus that has received the status request command responds to the information processing apparatus indicated by the response destination ID included in the status request command with its own apparatus information. The status reply command stores device information in the data area of the execution section.

  FIG. 4 shows the structure of the data area of the software cell when the DMA command is a status return command.

  The information processing device ID is an identifier for identifying the information processing device including the information processing controller, and indicates the ID of the information processing device that transmits the status reply command. The information processing apparatus ID is included in the information processing controller in the information processing apparatus by the main processor 21 included in the information processing controller in the information processing apparatus when the power is turned on. It is generated based on the number of sub processors 23 to be processed.

  The information processing device type ID includes a value representing the characteristics of the information processing device. The features of the information processing apparatus mentioned here include, for example, a hard disk recorder (described later), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistants), a portable CD (Compact Disc) player, and the like. The information processing device type ID may represent a function of the information processing device such as video / audio recording or video / audio reproduction. Values representing the characteristics and functions of the information processing device are predetermined. By calling the information processing device type ID, it is possible to grasp the characteristics and functions of the information processing device.

  The MS (master / slave) status indicates whether the information processing apparatus is operating as a master apparatus or a slave apparatus, as will be described later. When this is set to 0, it operates as a master apparatus. If it is set to 1, it indicates that it is operating as a slave device.

  The main processor operating frequency represents the operating frequency of the main processor 21 in the information processing controller. The main processor usage rate represents the usage rate in the main processor 21 for all programs currently running on the main processor 21. The main processor usage rate is a value representing the ratio of the processing capacity in use to the total processing capacity of the target main processor. For example, MIPS [Million Instructions Per Second], which is a unit for evaluating the processor processing capacity, is calculated as a unit. Or based on the processor usage time per unit time. The same applies to the sub-processor usage rate described later.

  The number of sub-processors represents the number of sub-processors 23 included in the information processing controller. The sub processor ID is an identifier for identifying each sub processor 23 in the information processing controller.

  The sub processor status represents the state of each sub processor 23, and there are states such as “unused”, “reserved”, and “busy”. “unused” indicates that the sub-processor is not currently used and is not reserved for use. “reserved” indicates a reserved state that is not currently used. Busy indicates that it is currently in use.

  The sub-processor usage rate represents the usage rate in the sub-processor for a program that is currently being executed in the sub-processor or that is reserved for execution in the sub-processor. That is, the sub processor usage rate indicates the current usage rate when the sub processor status is busy, and indicates the estimated usage rate that is to be used later when the sub processor status is reserved.

  One set of sub processor ID, sub processor status, and sub processor usage rate is set for one sub processor 23, and the number of sets corresponding to the sub processor 23 in one information processing controller is set.

  The total main memory capacity and the main memory usage represent the total capacity and the currently used capacity of the main memory 26 connected to the information processing controller, respectively.

  The number of external recording units represents the number of external recording units 28 connected to the information processing controller. The external recording unit ID is information that uniquely identifies the external recording unit 28 connected to the information processing controller. The external recording unit type ID represents the type of the external recording unit (for example, hard disk, CD ± RW, DVD ± RW, memory disk, SRAM, ROM, etc.).

  The external recording unit total capacity and the external recording unit usage amount represent the total capacity and the currently used capacity of the external recording unit 28 identified by the external recording unit ID, respectively.

  The external recording unit ID, the external recording unit type ID, the external recording unit total capacity, and the external recording unit usage amount are set for one external recording unit 28 and connected to the information processing controller. The number of sets is equal to the number of external recording units 28. That is, when a plurality of external recording units are connected to one information processing controller, different external recording unit IDs are assigned to the respective external recording units, the external recording unit type ID, the external recording unit total capacity, and the external recording unit. Department usage is also managed separately.

A-4 The main processor 21 included in the information processing controller in the information processing apparatus that executes the software cell generates the software cell having the above-described configuration, and the other information processing apparatus and the inside of the apparatus via the network 9 To the information processing controller. The transmission source information processing device, the transmission destination information processing device, the response destination information processing device, and the information processing controller in each device are identified by the transmission source ID, the transmission destination ID, and the response destination ID, respectively. .

  The main processor 21 included in the information processing controller in the information processing apparatus that has received the software cell stores the software cell in the main memory 26. Furthermore, the transmission destination main processor 21 reads the software cell and processes the DMA command included therein.

  Specifically, the transmission destination main processor 21 first executes a load command. As a result, information is loaded from the main memory address instructed by the load command into a predetermined area of the LS 24 in the sub processor identified by the sub processor ID and LS address included in the load command. The information loaded here is a sub-processor program or data included in the received software cell, or other designated data.

  Next, the main processor 21 outputs the kick command together with the program counter included in the kick command to the sub processor indicated by the sub processor ID included therein.

  The instructed sub processor executes the sub processor program according to the kick command and the program counter. After the execution result is stored in the main memory 26, the main processor 21 is notified that the execution has been completed.

  Note that the processor that executes the software cell in the information processing controller in the information processing apparatus of the transmission destination is not limited to the sub-processor 23, but the main processor 21 executes a program for main memory such as a function program included in the software cell. It can also be specified to execute.

  In this case, the transmission source information processing apparatus includes a main memory program and data processed by the main memory program instead of the sub processor program, and the DMA command is sent to the transmission destination information processing apparatus. A software cell as a load command is transmitted, and the main memory 26 stores the main memory program and data processed thereby.

  Next, the transmission source information processing apparatus identifies the main processor ID, the main memory address, and the main memory program for the information processing controller in the transmission destination information processing apparatus to the transmission destination information processing apparatus. And a software cell in which the DMA command is a kick command or a function program execution command, and causes the main processor 21 to execute the main memory program.

  As described above, in the network system according to the present embodiment, the transmission source information processing apparatus transmits the sub processor program or the main memory program to the transmission destination information processing apparatus using software cells, and the sub processor program is The sub processor 23 included in the information processing controller in the information processing apparatus of the transmission destination can be loaded, and the information processing apparatus of the transmission destination can execute the sub processor program or the main memory program.

  When the program included in the received software cell is a sub processor program, the information processing controller in the transmission destination information processing apparatus loads the sub processor program to the designated sub processor. Then, the sub processor program or the main memory program included in the software cell is executed.

  Therefore, even if the user does not operate the transmission destination information processing apparatus, the sub processor program or the main memory program can be automatically executed by the information processing controller in the transmission destination information processing apparatus.

  In this way, when the information processing controller in its own device does not have a main memory program such as a sub processor program or a function program, the information processing device receives them from another information processing device connected to the network. Can be acquired. Furthermore, data transfer is performed between each sub-processor using the DMA method, and the above-described sandbox is used, so that even when it is necessary to process data in multiple stages within one information processing controller, high speed and high security are achieved. The process can be executed.

A-5. Distributed Processing as Network System FIG. 5 shows a state in which a plurality of information processing apparatuses operate as one virtual information processing apparatus. As a result of distributed processing using software cells, as shown in the upper part of the figure, a plurality of information processing devices 1, 2, 3, and 4 connected to the network 9 It operates as one typical information processing apparatus 7. However, in order to realize such a virtual operation, the following processing needs to be executed with the following configuration.

A-6. System Software Configuration and Program Loading FIG. 6 shows the software configuration stored in the main memory 26 of each information processing controller. These software (programs) are recorded in the external recording unit 28 connected to the information processing controller before the information processing apparatus is turned on. Each program is classified into a control program, a function program, and a device driver according to functions or features.

  The control program is the same for each information processing controller, and is executed by the main processor 21 of each information processing controller, and includes an MS (master / slave) manager and a capacity exchange program described later.

  The function program is executed by the main processor 21, and a function program corresponding to the information processing apparatus is provided for each information processing controller such as recording, reproduction, and material search.

  The device driver is for input / output (transmission / reception) of the information processing controller (information processing apparatus), such as broadcast reception, monitor output, bit stream input / output, network input / output, etc. Provided.

  When the information processing apparatus is physically connected to the network 9 by plugging in a cable or the like, the main power supply is turned on and the information processing apparatus is electrically and functionally connected to the network 9. The main processor 21 of the information processing controller of the information processing apparatus loads each program belonging to the control program and each program belonging to the device driver into the main memory 26.

  As a program loading procedure, the main processor 21 first reads the program from the external recording unit 28 by causing the DC 27 to execute a read command, and then causes the DMAC 25 to execute the write command to Write to memory 26.

  As for each program belonging to the function program, it may be configured to load only the necessary program into the memory when necessary, or, like programs belonging to other categories, each program is loaded immediately after the main power is turned on. You may comprise.

  Here, each program belonging to the function program does not need to be recorded in the external recording unit 28 of all information processing apparatuses connected to the network, but is recorded in the external recording unit 28 of any one information processing apparatus. If so, it can be loaded from another information processing apparatus by the above-described method. As a result, the function program is executed as one virtual information processing apparatus 7 as shown in the lower part of FIG. Can do.

Here, as described above, the function program processed by the main processor 21 may operate in cooperation with the sub processor program processed by the sub processor 23. Therefore, when there is a sub processor program that operates in cooperation with the target function program when the main processor 21 reads the function program from the external recording unit 28 and writes it to the main memory 26, the sub processor program is also the same. It is assumed that data is written in the main memory 26. In this case, there may be one or more sub-processor programs that operate in cooperation with each other. If there are a plurality of sub-processor programs, all sub-processor programs that operate in cooperation are written in the main memory 26. The sub processor program written in the main memory 26 is then written in the LS 24 in the sub processor 23 and operates in cooperation with the function program processed by the main processor 21.

  As shown in the software cell of FIG. 3, an identifier that can uniquely identify a program is assigned to each function program as a function program ID. The function program ID is determined from the creation date and time, the information processing apparatus ID, and the like at the stage of creating the function program.

A sub processor program ID is also assigned to the sub processor program, whereby the sub processor program can be uniquely identified. The assigned sub-processor program ID is an identifier related to the function program ID of the function program that is the partner of the cooperative operation, for example, the function program ID as a parent number and a branch number added at the end. There may be an identifier that is not related to the function program ID of the function program that is the partner of the cooperative operation. In any case, when the function program and the sub processor program operate in cooperation, it is necessary to store the program ID which is the identifier of the other party in the own program. Even when the function program operates in cooperation with a plurality of sub-processor programs, the function program stores the sub-processor program IDs of all the sub-processor programs.

  The main processor 21 secures an area for storing device information (information regarding the operation state) of the information processing device on which the main processor 21 operates in the main memory 26, and records the information as a device information table of the own device. The device information referred to here is each information below the information processing device ID in the data area of the status reply command shown in FIG.

A-7. Determination of Master / Slave in the System In the above-described network system, when the main power supply to a certain information processing apparatus is turned on, the main processor 21 of the information processing controller of the information processing apparatus mains the master / slave manager (hereinafter referred to as MS manager). It is loaded into the memory 26 and executed.

  When the MS manager detects that the information processing apparatus on which it operates is connected to the network 9, it confirms the existence of another information processing apparatus connected to the same network 9. As used herein, “connection” or “presence” means that the information processing apparatus is not only physically connected to the network 9 but also electrically and functionally connected to the network 9. Indicates.

  In addition, an information processing apparatus in which the device operates is referred to as a self device, and another information processing device is referred to as another device. The apparatus also indicates the information processing apparatus.

  A method in which the MS manager confirms the presence of another information processing apparatus connected to the same network 9 will be described below.

  The MS manager generates a software cell in which the DMA command is a status request command, the transmission source ID and the response destination ID are the information processing apparatus, and the transmission destination ID is not specified, and the information processing apparatus is connected to the network. Send and set a timer for network connection confirmation. The timeout time of the timer is, for example, 10 minutes.

  When another information processing apparatus is connected to the network system, the other apparatus receives the software cell of the status request command, and sends it to the information processing apparatus that has issued the status request command specified by the response destination ID. On the other hand, the DMA command is a status return command, and a software cell including device information of itself (other device) is transmitted as data. The software cell of this status reply command includes at least information for identifying the other device (information processing device ID, information on the main processor, information on the sub processor, etc.) and the MS status of the other device.

  The MS manager of the information processing apparatus that has issued the status request command monitors the reception of the software cell of the status reply command transmitted from another apparatus on the network until the timer for network connection confirmation times out. As a result, when the status reply command indicating the MS status = 0 (master device) is received, the MS status in the device information table of the own device is set to 1. As a result, the device becomes a slave device.

  On the other hand, when no status reply command is received before the network connection confirmation timer times out, or when no status reply command indicating MS status = 0 (master device) is received, The MS status in the device information table of the own device is set to 0. This makes the device a master device.

  That is, if no information processing apparatus is connected to the network 9 in a state in which no apparatus is connected to the network 9 or a master apparatus does not exist on the network 9, the apparatus automatically becomes the master apparatus. Set as On the other hand, when a new information processing apparatus is connected to the network 9 in a state where a master apparatus already exists on the network 9, the apparatus is automatically set as a slave apparatus.

  For both the master device and the slave device, the MS manager periodically monitors the status of the other device by sending a status request command to the other device on the network 9 and inquiring status information. As a result, the main power source of the information processing apparatus connected to the network 9 is cut off or the information processing apparatus is disconnected from the network 9, so that the status from a specific other apparatus is determined within a predetermined period set in advance for determination. When there is a change in the connection state of the network 9, such as when a reply command is not returned or when a new information processing apparatus is connected to the network 9, the information is notified to the ability exchange program described later. .

A-8. Acquisition of device information in the master device and slave device When the main processor 21 receives an inquiry from another MS information processing device connected to the network 9 and a notification of completion of setting of the MS status of its own device, the capability exchange program Execute.

  When the own device is the master device, the capability exchange program acquires device information about all other information processing devices connected to the network 9, that is, device information of each slave device.

  As described above, the device information of the other device is obtained by generating a software cell in which the DMA command is a status request command and transmitting it to the other device, and then the DMA command is a status return command and as data. This is possible by receiving a software cell containing device information from another device.

  The capability exchange program sets an area for storing device information about all other devices (each slave device) connected to the network 9 in the same manner as the device information table of the device that is the master device. This information is secured in the main memory 26 and recorded as a device information table of another device (slave device). That is, the device information of all information processing devices connected to the network 9 including the device itself is recorded in the main memory 26 of the master device as a device information table.

  On the other hand, when the own device is a slave device, the capability exchange program obtains device information about all other devices connected to the network 9, that is, device information of each slave device other than the master device and the own device. The information processing apparatus ID and the MS status included in the apparatus information are acquired and recorded in the main memory 26 of the own apparatus. That is, the device information of the own device is recorded as a device information table in the main memory 26 of the slave device, and the master device connected to the network 9 other than the own device and the information processing device ID for each slave device. And the MS status are recorded as another device information table.

  Further, in both the master device and the slave device, when the capability exchange program is notified from the MS manager that the information processing device is newly connected to the network 9 as described above, the device of the information processing device Information is acquired and recorded in the main memory 26 as described above.

  Note that the MS manager and the capability exchange program are not limited to being executed by the main processor 21, but may be executed by any of the sub processors 23. The MS manager and the capability exchange program are preferably resident programs that always operate while the main power supply of the information processing apparatus is turned on.

A-9. When the information processing device is disconnected from the network , for both the master device and the slave device, the mains power of the information processing device connected to the network 9 is shut off from the MS manager as described above. Alternatively, when it is notified from the network 9 that the information processing apparatus has been disconnected, the apparatus information table of the information processing apparatus is deleted from the main memory 26 of the own apparatus.

  Further, when the information processing apparatus disconnected from the network 9 is a master apparatus, a new master apparatus is determined by the following method.

  For example, each of the information processing devices that are not disconnected from the network 9 replaces the information processing device ID of the own device and the other device with a numerical value, compares the information processing device ID of the own device with the information processing device ID of the other device, and When the information processing device ID of the own device is the smallest among the information processing devices that are not disconnected from the network 9, the slave device moves to the master device, sets the MS status to 0, and is described above as the master device. As described above, device information is acquired from all other information processing devices (each slave device) connected to the network 9 and recorded in the main memory 26.

A-10. Distributed processing based on device information To operate a plurality of information processing devices 1, 2, 3, 4 connected to the network 9 as a single virtual information processing device 7 as shown in the lower part of FIG. The master device needs to grasp the user operation and the operation state of the slave device.

  FIG. 7 shows a state in which four information processing apparatuses operate as one virtual information processing apparatus 7. In the illustrated example, it is assumed that the information processing apparatus 1 operates as a master apparatus, and the information processing apparatuses 2, 3, and 4 operate as slave apparatuses A, B, and C, respectively.

  When a user operates an information processing apparatus connected to the network 9, if the operation target is the master apparatus 1, the operation information is directly grasped by the master apparatus 1. If the operation target is a slave device, the operation information is transmitted from the operated slave device to the master device 1. That is, regardless of whether the user's operation target is the master device 1 or the slave device, the operation information is always grasped by the master device 1. The operation information is transmitted, for example, by a software cell whose DMA command is an operation information transmission command.

  Then, the main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the master device 1 selects a function program to be executed according to the operation information. At that time, if necessary, the main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the master device 1 may transfer the main memory 26-1 from the external recording units 28-1 and 28-2 of the own device by the above method. However, another information processing device (slave device) may transmit the function program to the master device 1.

  In the function program, required specifications related to the device such as information processing device type ID, main processor or sub-processor processing capacity, main memory usage, and conditions related to the external recording unit required for each execution unit (see FIG. 4) Is defined).

  The main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the master device 1 reads out the above required specifications necessary for each function program. Also, the device information table of each information processing device is read by referring to the device information table recorded in the main memory 26-1 by the capability exchange program in advance. The device information here is information related to the main processor, sub-processor, main memory, and external recording unit.

  The main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the master device 1 sequentially compares the device information of each information processing device connected on the network 9 with the required specifications necessary for executing the function program. To do.

  For example, when the function program requires a recording function, only the information processing apparatus having the recording function is specified and extracted based on the information processing apparatus type ID. Furthermore, a slave device that can ensure the conditions regarding the processing capability of the main processor or sub processor, the amount of main memory used, and the external recording unit necessary for executing the function program is specified as an execution request candidate device. Here, when a plurality of execution request candidate devices are specified, one execution request candidate device is specified and selected from the candidate devices.

  When the slave device to be executed is specified, the main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the master device 1 sets the main memory included in the information processing controller 11 in the own device for the specified slave device. The device information table of the slave device recorded in 26-1 is updated.

  Further, the main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the master device 1 generates a software cell whose DMA command is a function program execution command, and the cell interface of the software cell needs a function program related to the function program. Sub-processor information and sandbox size (see FIG. 3) are set and transmitted to the slave device requested to execute.

  The slave device requested to execute the function program executes the function program and updates the device information table of the own device. At that time, if necessary, the main processor 21 included in the information processing controller in the slave device, from the external recording unit 28 of the own device to the main memory 26 by the above method, the function program and the sub-operation that operates in cooperation with the function program Load the processor program.

  When the necessary function program or the sub processor program that operates in cooperation with the function program is not recorded in the external recording unit 28 of the slave device requested to execute the function program, the other information processing apparatus The system may be configured to transmit the sub-processor program to the functional program execution request destination slave device.

The sub-processor program can be executed by another information processing apparatus using the aforementioned load command and kick command.

  After the execution of the function program, the main processor 21 included in the information processing controller in the slave device that has executed the function program transmits an end notification to the main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the master device 1. At the same time, the device information table of the own device is updated. The main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the master device 1 receives the end notification and updates the device information table of the slave device that has executed the function program.

  The main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the master device 1 identifies itself as an information processing device that can execute the function program from the reference result of the device information table of the own device and the other device. There is also a case of selecting. In that case, the master device 1 executes the function program.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 7, distributed processing when the user operates slave device A (information processing device 2) and another slave device B (information processing device 3) executes a function program corresponding to the operation. This will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 8, when the user operates the slave device A, distributed processing of the entire network system including the slave device A starts. First, the slave device A transmits the operation information to the master device 1. (Step 81).

  The master device 1 receives the operation information (step 72), and further checks the operation state of each information processing device from the device information table of the own device and other devices recorded in the main memory 26-1 of the own device. An information processing apparatus capable of executing a function program corresponding to the received operation information is selected (step 73). In the illustrated example, the case where the slave device B is selected is shown.

  Next, the master device 1 requests the selected slave device B to execute the function program (step 74).

  The slave device B receives the execution request (step 95), and further executes the function program requested to be executed (step 96).

  As described above, by operating only one information processing apparatus, the user operates a plurality of information processing apparatuses 1, 2, 3, and 4 without operating other information processing apparatuses. The information processing apparatus 7 can be operated.

A-11. Specific examples of information processing apparatuses and systems Information processing apparatuses 1, 2, 3, 4 connected to each other via a network 9 perform information processing by the information processing controllers 11, 12, 13, 14 as described above. So long as it is basically any configuration. FIG. 9 shows a configuration example of the information processing apparatus.

  An example of the information processing apparatus 1 including the information processing controller 11 is a hard disk recorder. 10 and 11 show the hardware configuration and software configuration of the hard disk recorder shown in FIG. As a hardware configuration of the hard disk recorder, a hard disk is built in as the external recording unit 28-1 shown in FIG. 1, and DVD ± R / RW, CD ± R / RW, and the external recording unit 28-2 shown in FIG. The optical disc such as Bluray-Disc (registered trademark) is configured to be mounted, and the broadcast receiving unit 32-1 and the video input unit 33 are connected to the bus 31-1 connected to the bus 29-1 of the information processing controller 11. -1, an audio input unit 34-1, a video output unit 35-1, an audio output unit 36-1, an operation panel unit 37-1, a remote control light receiving unit 38-1, and a network connection unit 39-1.

  The broadcast receiving unit 32-1, the video input unit 33-1 and the audio input unit 34-1 receive a broadcast signal or input a video signal and an audio signal from the outside of the information processing apparatus 1, and each has a digital format of a predetermined format. Data is converted and sent to the bus 31-1 for processing by the information processing controller 11. The video output unit 35-1 and the audio output unit 36-1 process the video data and audio data sent from the information processing controller 11 to the bus 31-1, and convert them into digital data or analog signals. The remote control light receiving unit 38-1 receives a remote control (remote operation) infrared signal from the remote control transmitter 43-1.

  As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, a monitor display device 41 and a speaker device 42 are connected to the video output unit 35-1 and the audio output unit 36-1 of the information processing apparatus (hard disk recorder) 1.

  The information processing apparatus 2 including the information processing controller 12 illustrated in FIG. 9 is also a hard disk recorder, and is configured in the same manner as the information processing apparatus 1 as indicated by reference numerals in parentheses in FIG. However, as shown in FIG. 9, the monitor display device and the speaker device are not connected to the information processing device (hard disk recorder) 2.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the software configuration of the information processing apparatuses (hard disk recorders) 1 and 2, that is, the information processing controllers 11 and 12, includes an MS manager and a capability exchange program as control programs, and video and audio as function programs. A program for recording, video / audio reproduction, material search and program recording reservation is provided, and a program for broadcast reception, video output, audio output, external recording unit input / output and network input / output is provided as a device driver.

  Another example of the information processing apparatus 3 including the information processing controller 13 is a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). FIG. 12 shows a hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus 3 configured as a PDA. In the example shown in the figure, the external recording unit 28-5 shown in FIG. 1 is configured so that a memory card disk can be mounted, and a liquid crystal display is provided on a bus 51 connected to the bus 29-3 of the information processing controller 13. The unit 52, the audio output unit 53, the camera unit 54, the audio input unit 55, the keyboard unit 56, and the network connection unit 57 are connected.

  Note that the information processing controller 13 omitted in FIG. 1 includes a main processor 21-3, sub processors 23-7, 23-8, 23-9, a DMAC (direct memory access controller) 25-3, and a DC (disk controller). 27-3 and the bus 29-3, the main processor 21-3 has an LS (local storage) 22-3, and the sub processors 23-7, 23-8, 23-9 are LS (Local storage) 24-7, 24-8, 24-9 are provided.

  FIG. 13 shows a software configuration of the information processing apparatus (PDA) 3, that is, the information processing controller 13. As shown in the figure, the control program includes an MS manager and a capability exchange program, and the function program includes a video / audio recording, video / audio reproduction, a phone book, a word processor, a spreadsheet program, and a web browser, As device drivers, programs for video output, audio output, camera video input, microphone audio input, and network input / output are provided.

  The information processing apparatus 4 including the information processing controller 14 is a portable CD player. FIG. 14 shows a hardware configuration of the portable CD player. In the illustrated example, the portable CD player is configured such that a CD (Compact Disc) can be mounted as the external recording unit 28-6 shown in FIG. 1 and is connected to the bus 29-4 of the information processing controller 14. 61, a liquid crystal display unit 62, an audio output unit 63, an operation button unit 64, and a network connection unit 65 are connected.

  Note that the information processing controller 14 omitted in FIG. 1 includes a main processor 21-4, sub processors 23-10, 23-11, 23-12, DMAC 25-4, DC 27-4, and a bus 29-4. The main processor 21-4 has an LS 22-4, and each of the sub processors 23-10, 23-11, 23-12 has an LS 24-10, 24-11, 24-12.

  FIG. 15 shows a software configuration of the information processing apparatus (portable CD player) 4, that is, the information processing controller 14. As shown in the figure, the control program includes an MS manager and a capability exchange program, the function program includes a program for music playback, and the device driver includes a program for audio output, CD control, and network input / output. .

  In the network system illustrated in FIG. 9, the information processing apparatuses 1, 3, and 4 are connected to the network 9, the information processing apparatus 1 is a master device (MS status = 0), and the information processing apparatuses 3 and 4 are slaves. Assume that the device (MS status = 1) is set.

  In this state, when the information processing apparatus 2 is newly connected to the network 9, the MS manager executed by the main processor 21-2 included in the information processing controller 12 in the information processing apparatus 2 is The other information processing devices 1, 3 and 4 are inquired about the MS status, recognizes that the information processing device 1 already exists as a master device, and sets its own device (information processing device 2) as a slave device (MS status = Set to 1). Further, the information processing device 1 set as the master device collects device information of each device including the newly added information processing device 2 and updates the device information table in the main memory 26-1.

  In this state, a case where an operation for making a recording reservation for a 2-hour broadcast program is performed by the information processing apparatus (PDA) 3 as a slave apparatus by the user will be described below.

  In this case, the information processing apparatus (PDA) 3 which is a slave apparatus receives input of recording reservation information including information such as a recording start time, a recording end time, a recording target broadcast channel, and recording quality from the user, and the recording reservation information A software cell including a recording reservation command as a DMA command is generated and transmitted to the information processing apparatus 1 which is a master apparatus.

  The main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the information processing apparatus 1 that has received the software cell whose DMA command is the recording reservation command reads out the recording reservation command and also stores the apparatus information table in the main memory 26-1. The information processing apparatus that can execute the recording reservation command is specified.

  First, the main processor 21-1 reads information processing device type IDs of the information processing devices 1, 2, 3, and 4 included in the device information table and can execute a function program corresponding to the recording reservation command. Extract the device. Here, the information processing apparatuses 1 and 2 having the information processing apparatus type ID indicating the recording function are identified as candidate apparatuses, and the information processing apparatuses 3 and 4 are excluded from the candidate apparatuses.

  Next, the main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the information processing apparatus 1 that is the master apparatus refers to the apparatus information table, and the processing capability of the main processor or sub-processor of the information processing apparatuses 1 and 2. Then, information related to the apparatus such as information related to the main memory is read, and it is determined whether or not the information processing apparatuses 1 and 2 satisfy the required specifications necessary for executing the function program corresponding to the recording reservation command. Here, it is assumed that the information processing apparatuses 1 and 2 satisfy the required specifications necessary for executing the function program corresponding to the recording reservation command.

  Further, the main processor 21-1 refers to the device information table, reads out information related to the external recording unit of the information processing devices 1 and 2, and determines that the free capacity of the external recording unit is sufficient for executing the recording reservation command. Determine if you are satisfied. Since the information processing apparatuses 1 and 2 are hard disk recorders, the difference between the total capacity and the usage amount of the hard disks 28-1 and 28-3 corresponds to the respective free capacity.

  In this case, the free capacity of the hard disk 28-1 of the information processing apparatus 1 is 10 minutes in terms of recording time, and the free capacity of the hard disk 28-3 of the information processing apparatus 2 is 20 hours in terms of recording time. Suppose that

  At this time, the main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the information processing apparatus 1 that is the master apparatus is an information processing apparatus that can secure a free space for two hours necessary for execution of the recording reservation command. Identifies as an execution request destination slave device.

  As a result, only the information processing device 2 is selected as the execution request destination slave device, and the main processor 21-1 included in the information processing controller 11 in the information processing device 1 that is the master device receives the information processing device operated by the user. The recording reservation command including the recording reservation information transmitted from 3 is transmitted to the information processing device 2 to request execution of the recording reservation of the broadcast program for 2 hours.

  Then, the main processor 21-2 included in the information processing controller 12 in the information processing apparatus 2 analyzes the recording reservation command and sends a function program necessary for recording from the hard disk 28-3 as an external recording unit to the main memory. 26-2, and recording is performed according to the recording reservation information. As a result, the video / audio data of the 2-hour broadcast program reserved for recording is recorded in the hard disk 28-3 of the information processing apparatus 2.

  As described above, also in the network system of the example of FIG. 9, the user operates only one information processing apparatus, and operates a plurality of information processing apparatuses 1, 2, 2 without operating other information processing apparatuses. 3 and 4 can be operated as one virtual information processing apparatus 7.

B. Execution of Additional Function According to the present invention, a plurality of information processing apparatuses incorporating a plurality of sub processors are connected on the same network, and a user can be treated virtually as one information processing apparatus. Further, as a further embodiment of the present invention, whether or not there is a function (additional function) that can be performed simultaneously with a function instructed to be processed by a user to an information processing apparatus. It is determined whether there is an information processing apparatus capable of processing the additional function, and the user is presented as a list of additional functions that can be processed.

B-1. System Configuration FIG. 16 schematically shows the configuration of a network system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  A communication medium that connects devices is configured by a combination of a wide-band and broadband network such as the Internet, a home network, and other LANs (Local Area Network).

  Upnp (Universal Plug and Play) can be used as a mechanism for discovering other devices on the network. According to Upnp, definition files described in XML (eXtended Markup Language) format are exchanged between devices connected to a network, and mutual authentication is performed through addressing processing, discovery processing, and service request processing. Alternatively, it can also be realized by broadcasting a packet describing prescribed device information in the same segment.

  The grid computing technology described above is applied to the network, and commands and data are exchanged in the form of software cells between information processing apparatuses. When a user performs an operation on a certain information processing device, the user can load and execute a desired program in another information processing as a transmission destination by transmitting a software cell. There is no need to operate. That is, the cooperation operation between the devices is realized by the traffic of the software cell, and a plurality of information processing devices can virtually operate as one device.

  A myriad of host devices such as an information providing server, a database server, and an application server are arranged on the Internet, including a WWW (World Wide Web) server.

  The home network is installed in each home and is interconnected with an external network such as the Internet via a gateway, for example. On the home network, devices A to C capable of recording AV content such as HD recorders, devices D such as PDA (Personal Digital Assistance) and mobile AV devices, display devices, and other CE devices are connected. Yes. The home network can be physically configured with a standard network interface such as 10BaseT, 100BaseTX, or Gigaether.

  The device A is a hard disk recorder, which is a network AV device device that has a BS / CS / terrestrial digital broadcast reception function and a function of storing content in the hard disk and is always connected to the network.

  Device B and device C are hard disk recorders, and in addition to the BS / CS / terrestrial digital broadcast reception function and the function of storing content in the hard disk, the content in the hard disk is stored in various media such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc). This is a network AV equipment device that has a function of dubbing the network and is always connected to the network.

  The software configurations of the devices A to C are as shown in FIG. That is, the control program includes an MS manager and a capability exchange program, the function program includes a program for video / audio recording, video / audio reproduction, material search and program recording reservation, and the device driver receives broadcast, video output, Programs for audio output, external recording unit input / output, and network input / output are provided.

  The device D is a mobile AV device that has a function of moving and reproducing content from a hard disk, such as a PDA, and can be connected to a network. The software configuration of Listen D is as shown in FIG. That is, the control program includes an MS manager and a capability exchange program, the function program includes a video / audio recording, video / audio reproduction, a phone book, a word processor and a spreadsheet program, and a Web browser, and a device driver includes a video Programs for output, audio output, camera video input, microphone audio input, and network input / output are provided.

  The display device is a display device that displays information acquired from each device via a network, and all the devices can be operated through this display operation.

B-2. The function program and the additional function program function programs provide functions that can be executed in the information processing apparatus. When a process is instructed to an information processing apparatus, there may be an additional function that can be performed simultaneously with the function of executing the instruction. That is, since it is efficient if another function that uses data required for the instructed processing is activated at the same time, it is defined as an additional function in this embodiment.

  The devices A to C are configured as a hard disk recorder having a BS / CS / terrestrial digital broadcast reception function and a function of storing content in the hard disk, and functions such as editing, playback, and recording of video / audio content are function programs. (See FIG. 11). Additional functions can be defined for each of these functions. For example, when the video content playback function is activated, data processing such as encoding and scene recognition that can be performed using the read content corresponds to an additional function.

  In the present embodiment, functions and additional functions are handled in a hierarchical manner. FIG. 17 shows a hierarchical structure of functions and additional functions. A “function ID” for specifying the function is added in advance to both the function and the additional function.

  There are additional function programs corresponding to the additional functions. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, additional functions such as “scene recognition” and “re-encoding” are conceivable for the function of “playing” video, and there are additional function programs for executing the functions. .

  The function program and the additional function program are recorded in an external recording device connected to the information processing apparatus before the information processing apparatus is turned on. After power-on, the main processor loads each program belonging to the device driver category and each program belonging to the control program category into the main memory. As a procedure for loading into the main memory, the main processor reads out from the external recording device by executing a read command to the DC. The main memory is loaded by executing a write command to the DMAC. About each program and additional function program which belong to the category of a function program, it may be made to load only what is needed when needed, and it may be loaded after power-on like each program which belongs to other categories. It may be.

B-3. Execution of Function Program When a plurality of information processing devices connected to the network operate as one virtual information processing device, the user operates the user interface on one of the information processing devices to execute the function. Can be operated.

  The main processor in the master device selects a function program to be executed according to the operation information. At that time, if necessary, the function program is loaded from the external recording device to the main memory according to the method described above. At the time of execution, the function program notifies the main processor of information relating to the main processor, sub-processor, main memory, and external recording device that are necessary when it is executed. Then, the main processor selects a slave device that can execute the function program based on the device information table of the own device or another device recorded in the main memory, and sends the function program to the selected slave device. Request execution. At that time, the master device updates the device information table related to the selected slave device recorded in its own main memory based on the information necessary for executing the function program.

  The main processor of the slave device requested to execute the function program executes the function program. At this time, if necessary, the main processor of the slave device loads the function program from the external recording device to the main memory according to the above-described method. Here, if the necessary function program is not recorded in the external recording device connected to the slave device that is requested to execute the function program, the other information processing device may use the function program as the main memory program. May be transmitted to the slave device requested to execute the function program. Further, as with the main memory program, if necessary, the sub processor program is transmitted to another information processing device by using a software cell, and is loaded to the sub processor in the other information processing device. It can be executed by another information processing apparatus.

  Then, after the processing of the function program ends, the slave device transmits an end notification to the master device. The master device updates the device information table related to the slave device that has executed the function program by receiving the end notification.

  In addition, the main processor of the master device may select itself as an information processing device capable of executing the function program based on the device information table of the own device or another device. In that case, the master device executes the function program. At that time, the device information table related to the master device recorded in the main memory of the slave device is updated according to the operation status of the master device.

B-4. Selection of Function by User and Notification to Master Device The user selects a desired function from an input device such as a remote control or a touch panel through a GUI screen as shown in FIG. 19, for example. In the illustrated example, functions such as editing, playback, and recording are listed as available functions. The playback function is selected by the user from among them, and the corresponding menu item is highlighted. In this embodiment, it is assumed that an information processing apparatus that operates in cooperation on a network is operated. Regardless of whether the operated information processing apparatus is a master apparatus or a slave apparatus, the operation information is transmitted to the master apparatus. The

  The information processing apparatus that has received the user's function operation generates a software cell having a format as shown in FIG. In the DMA command part of the execution section, two pieces of information, that is, a function selection notification command and a function ID for specifying the function selected by the user are stored, and the software cell is transmitted to the master device.

  Upon receiving this software cell, the master device recognizes that the software cell is a “function selection notification command” by analyzing the DMA command. Further, it is recognized from the source ID and the function ID which function is selected by the user in which slave device.

B-5. Retrieval destination search by the master device When the master device is notified of the function selected by the user from the slave device, is the function that the function selected by the user stores the data generated in processing the function? Judge whether.

  When the function selected by the user is a function for storing data, a storage destination presentation process is performed. In this process, it is first determined whether or not there is a storage medium having a capacity sufficient to store the amount of data to be stored. The storage medium here is assumed to be an external storage medium such as a hard disk drive, a memory card, or an optical disk.

  If there is a storage medium capable of storing data, the master device generates a software cell for notifying the storage destination and transmits it to the slave device. As shown in FIG. 22, this software cell stores a storable destination notification command and the number of storable storage media as the number of storable destinations in the DMA command section. In the data portion, as many storage medium IDs as the number of storable destinations are stored.

  On the other hand, when there is no storage medium capable of storing data, the master device generates a software cell for notifying that there is no storage medium capable of storing data, and transmits this to the slave device. As shown in FIG. 23, the software cell stores a storable destination notification command and 0 as the number of storable storage media in the DMA command section.

B-6. When the slave device receives a software cell whose DMA command portion is a “save destination notification command” from the master device, the slave device analyzes the content and recognizes the number of storable storage media.

  When the number of storable destinations described in the DMA portion of the received storage location notification command is 1 or more, that is, when the software cell shown in FIG. 22 is received, the slave device stores data from the data portion of the software cell. A list of medium IDs is acquired, and a list of selectable storage destination lists of storage media is presented to the user. The list of storable destinations is also presented with an option “do not save” so that the user can select not to perform the saving process. The user selects a storage medium to be saved from the save destination list, and selects “do not save” if he / she does not want to save it.

  FIG. 26 shows a screen configuration example of the storable destination list. In the illustrated example, re-encoding is selected by the user as an additional function of the playback function, and the storable destination list appears because the additional function includes a function of storing data. In the illustrated saveable destination list, HDDs, external storage media, and the like are presented as selectable saveable destinations. Among these, the external storage media is selected by the user, and the corresponding menu items are highlighted. Yes.

  When the user selects any storage medium, the selected storage medium is notified to the master apparatus by transmitting the software cell in the format shown in FIG. 27 to the master apparatus. This software cell stores a storage destination selection notification command indicating selection of a storage destination and a storage medium ID for designating the storage destination in the DMA command portion.

  Further, when the storable number described in the DMA portion of the received save destination notification command is 0, that is, when the software cell shown in FIG. 23 is received, the slave device has a storable storage medium. Present to the user that they will not.

B-7. Search for additional functions by the master device The master device checks the storage location selected by the user, or if the function selected by the user is not a function for saving data, the function selected by the user is displayed in a hierarchical list of function programs. With reference to (see FIG. 17), it is determined whether or not the additional function exists.

  When the function selected by the user has an additional function, it is further determined whether or not there is a slave device capable of processing the additional function in one virtual information processing apparatus. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a slave device that can secure resources (main processor, sub-processor, main memory, and external recording device) necessary for executing the additional function program is connected to the network.

  Here, when a resource for processing the additional function program can be secured, the master device generates a software cell for notifying the additional function and transmits it to the slave device. As shown in FIG. 21, this software cell stores an additional function notification command and the number of additional functions determined to be processable as the number of additional functions in the DMA command section. Further, the function IDs of the additional functions are stored in the data portion for the number of additional functions.

  On the other hand, if resources sufficient to process the additional function program cannot be secured, the master device generates a software cell for notifying this and transmits it to the slave device. As shown in FIG. 24, this software cell stores an additional function notification command and 0 as the number of additional functions in the DMA command section.

  Further, in the case of a function that does not have an additional function in the function selected by the user, the master device converts the software cell shown in FIG. 24 into the slave device, as in the case where the resource for processing the additional function program cannot be secured. Send to notify user.

B-8. Presentation of additional function by slave device When a slave device receives a software cell whose DMA command part is an “additional function notification command” from the master device, the slave device analyzes the content and processes it on the current system with the function selected by the user. Recognize the number of possible additional functions.

  When the number of additional functions described in the DMA section of the received additional function notification command is 1 or more, that is, when the software cell shown in FIG. 21 is received, the slave device adds the additional function from the data section of the software cell. A list of IDs is acquired, and a list of additional function lists that can be selected is presented to the user. The additional function list also presents an option “do not process” so that the user can select not to process the additional function.

  From the additional function list, the user selects an additional function to be processed together with the previously instructed function, and selects “do not process” if the additional function is not to be processed. When the user selects any additional function, the function selection by the user and notification processing to the master device are performed as described in the section B-4, and the selected function is notified to the master device. Is done.

  FIG. 25 shows a configuration example of a list screen of the additional function list. In the illustrated example, functions such as editing, playback, and recording are listed as available functions. The playback function is selected by the user from among them, and the corresponding menu item is highlighted.

  Further, additional functions such as scene recognition, person recognition, and re-encoding are listed as additional functions associated with the playback function. The list of additional functions also includes an option of “do not process” so that the user can select not to process the additional functions. In the illustrated example, re-encoding is selected by the user as an additional function, and the corresponding menu item is highlighted. The selected function and the additional function are transmitted to the master apparatus regardless of whether the information processing apparatus being operated is the master apparatus or the slave apparatus.

  In addition, when the number of additional functions described in the DMA section of the received additional function notification command is 0, that is, when the software cell shown in FIG. 24 is received, the slave device has an additional function that can be processed. Present to the user that they will not.

B-8. System Operation for Executing Function Program and Additional Function Program Finally, a system operation for executing the function program and the additional function program on the virtual information processing system will be described.

  FIG. 28 shows an operation procedure for the user to select a function and a data storage destination in the form of a flowchart.

  When the user requests a list of functions that can be processed (step S1), the information processing apparatus serving as the server (or master apparatus) searches for functions that can be processed on the network (step S2).

  FIG. 29 shows a format example of a software cell for requesting a list of functions that can be processed. This software cell stores a processable function list request command in the DMA command section.

  Here, when there is a function that can be processed (step S3), the master apparatus transmits a software cell including a processable function list to the slave apparatus operated by the user (step S4).

  FIG. 30 shows a format example of a software cell including a processable function list. This software cell stores a function notification command and the number of functions determined to be processable as the number of functions in the DMA command section. In the data portion, function IDs of functions corresponding to the number of functions that can be processed are stored.

  Then, the slave device that has received the software cell presents a list of functions that can be processed (see FIG. 19) to the user (step S5), and executes a function and storage destination presentation and selection process (step S6). ).

  On the other hand, when there is no function that can be processed (step S3), the master device transmits a software cell notifying that there is no function that can be processed to the slave device operated by the user (step S7). ). The software cell in this case uses the format shown in FIG. 30, and stores the function notification command and the number of functions 0 determined to be processable as the number of functions in the DMA command section.

  And the slave apparatus which received this software cell presents that there is no function which can be processed to a user (step S8).

  FIG. 31 shows a procedure of the function and storage destination presentation and selection processing in the form of a flowchart.

  When the user selects a function to be processed (step S11), the function selected by the user is added to the simultaneous processing list (step S12).

  Here, it is checked whether or not the function selected by the user includes a function for saving data (step S13).

  If the function selected by the user does not include a function for storing data, a process for presenting a separately defined additional function is performed.

  If the function selected by the user includes a function for storing data, it is further searched whether there is a storage medium on the network capable of storing the amount of data to be stored (step S14).

  Here, when a storage medium capable of storing the amount of data to be stored exists on the network, the master device displays a software cell including a list of storage media that can be stored (see FIG. 22) by the user. It transmits to the slave apparatus which is operating (step S15).

  Then, the slave device that has received the software cell presents a storable destination to the user (step S16). When the user selects a storage destination, this is notified to the master device (step S17). In the master device, the storage destination selected by the user is described in the simultaneous processing list (step S18), and then a separately defined additional function presentation process is performed.

  On the other hand, if there is no storage medium on the network that can store the amount of data to be stored (step S14), the master device notifies the software cell that there is no storage medium that can be stored (see FIG. 23). ) Is transmitted to the slave device operated by the user (step S19). The slave device that has received the software cell presents to the user that there is no storage destination (step S20), and then performs a separately defined additional function presentation process.

  FIG. 32 shows a procedure of additional function presentation processing in the form of a flowchart.

  First, it is checked whether an additional function exists in the function selected by the user (step S21).

  If there is an additional function in the function selected by the user, it is further searched whether there is a slave device on the network that can process the additional function (step S22).

  When a slave device capable of processing the additional function exists on the network, the master device transmits a software cell (FIG. 21) including the additional function list that can be processed to the slave device operated by the user ( Step S23).

  Then, the slave device that has received the software cell presents a list of additional functions that can be processed (see FIG. 25) to the user (step S24), and then presents and selects the function and storage destination (described above). To do.

  On the other hand, when there is no additional function in the function selected by the user (step S21), or when there is no slave device that can process the additional function on the network (step S22), the master device can process it. A software cell (see FIG. 24) notifying that there is no additional function is transmitted to the slave device operated by the user (step S25).

  Then, the slave device that has received the software cell notifies the user that there is no additional function (step S26).

  FIG. 33 shows, in the form of a flowchart, a processing procedure performed in the information processing apparatus serving as the master apparatus when a plurality of functions are simultaneously executed by a plurality of information processing apparatuses that cooperate on the network.

  First, the number N of functions to be processed simultaneously is extracted from the simultaneous processing list (step S31).

  Then, in loop 1, functions are extracted one by one from the simultaneous processable list (step S32), an information processing apparatus that executes this function is selected (step S33), and the selected information processing apparatus executes the function. The process of requesting loading of a program (step S34) is sequentially performed.

  FIG. 34 shows a format example of a software cell for remotely requesting the information processing apparatus to load an execution program. A remote load command is stored in the DMA section of the software cell. In the data portion, a load source information processing apparatus ID for designating the load source of the program, a load source storage / recording unit ID, a load source memory address, a load size, and a load destination storage / record for designating the load destination of the program The part ID and the load destination address are stored.

  After requesting each information processing device to load the execution program in this way, if load completion notifications are received from all the information processing devices that are the request destinations (step S35), all the information requested to load the execution program The processor is instructed to execute the program (step S36).

  FIG. 35 shows a processing procedure for loading and executing the requested program by the information processing apparatus serving as the slave apparatus in accordance with a load command from the master apparatus in the form of a flowchart.

  When the slave device receives a function program load command (see FIG. 34) from the master device (step S41), the slave device loads the designated function program (step S42), and the function program is completely loaded on the master device. A notification is transmitted (step S43).

  FIG. 36 shows a format example of the software cell for the slave device to notify the master device of the completion of loading of the function program. The DMA part of this software cell stores a function program load completion notification command.

  When the slave device receives a program execution command from the master device (step S44), the slave device executes the program (step S45).

  FIG. 37 shows an operation sequence when the “replay” function and the “re-encode” function are selected and the result of “re-encode” is stored in the “external storage medium”.

  The user requests a function list that can be processed from the information processing apparatus b that is currently operated. The information processing apparatus b inquires of the information processing apparatus a serving as a master apparatus about a processable function.

  The information processing apparatus a searches for a processable function and returns it to the information processing apparatus b. Then, the information processing apparatus b presents a processable function list to the user.

  When the user selects “play” from the function list, the information processing apparatus b notifies the information processing apparatus a serving as a master apparatus.

  The information processing apparatus a adds the selected “playback” function ID to the simultaneous processing list, searches for additional functions that can be processed, and returns the result to the information processing apparatus b. Then, the information processing apparatus b presents a list of additional functions that can be processed to the user.

  When the user selects “re-encode” from the additional function list, the information processing apparatus b notifies the information processing apparatus a serving as a master apparatus.

  In the information processing apparatus a, the selected “re-encode” function ID is added to the simultaneous processing list. Since “re-encoding” is a function for storing data, a search is made for a storage destination, and the result is returned to the information processing apparatus b. Then, the information processing apparatus b presents a list of storage destinations to the user.

  When the user selects “external storage medium” from the storable destination list, the information processing apparatus b notifies the information processing apparatus a serving as a master apparatus.

  In the information processing apparatus a, the storage destination ID of the selected “external storage medium” is written in the storage destination ID of “Reencode” in the simultaneous processing list. Then, simultaneous processing of multiple functions (see FIG. 33) is executed.

  FIG. 38 shows an operation sequence when the “playback” function and the “re-encode” function are processed simultaneously.

  In the information processing apparatus a as the master apparatus, functions to be simultaneously processed are extracted from the simultaneous processing list. Then, the information processing apparatus for executing the “reproduction” function is selected, and the information processing apparatus for executing the “re-encoding” function is selected.

  In the illustrated example, the information processing apparatus a requests the information processing apparatus c as a slave apparatus to load an execution program for the “replay” function and also loads the execution program for the “re-encode” function to the information processing apparatus d. Request.

  When the information processing apparatus c receives a request for loading the execution program for the “playback” function from the information processing apparatus a as the master apparatus, the information processing apparatus c loads the function program for “playback” and then loads the function program for “playback”. A completion notification is returned to the information processing apparatus a.

  When the information processing apparatus d receives a load request for the execution program for the “re-encoding” function from the information processing apparatus a as the master apparatus, the information processing apparatus d loads the function program for “re-encoding” and then performs “re-encoding”. The function program load completion notification is returned to the information processing apparatus a.

  When the information processing device a receives a function program load completion notification from each slave device, the information processing device a instructs the information processing device c to execute the “playback” function and also executes the “re-encode” function to the information processing device d. Order.

  The information processing apparatus c executes a “playback” function in response to the execution command from the information processing apparatus a. In addition, the information processing apparatus d executes a “re-encode” function in response to an execution command from the information processing apparatus a.

  FIG. 39 shows an operation sequence when the “reproduction” function and the “scene recognition” function are selected and the result of “scene recognition” is stored in the “hard disk drive”.

  The user requests a function list that can be processed from the information processing apparatus b that is currently operated. The information processing apparatus b inquires of the information processing apparatus a serving as a master apparatus about a processable function.

  The information processing apparatus a searches for a processable function and returns it to the information processing apparatus b. Then, the information processing apparatus b presents a processable function list to the user.

  When the user selects “play” from the function list, the information processing apparatus b notifies the information processing apparatus a serving as a master apparatus.

  The information processing apparatus a adds the selected “playback” function ID to the simultaneous processing list, searches for additional functions that can be processed, and returns the result to the information processing apparatus b. Then, the information processing apparatus b presents a list of additional functions that can be processed to the user.

  When the user selects “scene recognition” from the additional function list, the information processing apparatus b notifies the information processing apparatus a serving as a master apparatus.

  In the information processing apparatus a, the selected function ID of “scene recognition” is added to the simultaneous processing list. Since “scene recognition” is a function for storing data, a search is made for a storage destination, and the result is returned to the information processing apparatus b. Then, the information processing apparatus b presents a list of storage destinations to the user.

  When the user selects “Hard Disk Drive” from the storable destination list, the information processing apparatus b notifies the information processing apparatus a as the master apparatus.

  In the information processing apparatus a, the storage destination ID of the selected “hard disk drive” is written in the storage destination ID of “scene recognition” in the simultaneous processing list. Then, simultaneous processing of multiple functions (see FIG. 33) is executed.

  FIG. 40 shows an operation sequence when the “playback” function and the “scene recognition” function are processed simultaneously.

  In the information processing apparatus a as the master apparatus, functions to be simultaneously processed are extracted from the simultaneous processing list. Then, an information processing apparatus for executing the “reproduction” function is selected, and an information processing apparatus for executing the “scene recognition” function is selected.

  In the illustrated example, the information processing apparatus a requests the information processing apparatus c as a slave apparatus to load the execution program for the “reproduction” function and also loads the execution program for the “scene recognition” function to the information processing apparatus d. Request.

  When the information processing apparatus c receives a request for loading the execution program for the “playback” function from the information processing apparatus a as the master apparatus, the information processing apparatus c loads the function program for “playback” and then loads the function program for “playback”. A completion notification is returned to the information processing apparatus a.

  When the information processing apparatus d receives a load request for the execution program for the “scene recognition” function from the information processing apparatus a as the master apparatus, the information processing apparatus d loads the function program for “scene recognition” and then performs “scene recognition”. The function program load completion notification is returned to the information processing apparatus a.

  When the information processing device a receives a function program load completion notification from each slave device, the information processing device a instructs the information processing device c to execute the “playback” function and also executes the “scene recognition” function to the information processing device d. Order.

  The information processing apparatus c executes a “playback” function in response to the execution command from the information processing apparatus a. In addition, the information processing apparatus d executes a “scene recognition” function in response to an execution command from the information processing apparatus a.

  The present invention has been described in detail above with reference to specific embodiments. However, it is obvious that those skilled in the art can make modifications and substitutions of the embodiment without departing from the gist of the present invention. That is, the present invention has been disclosed in the form of exemplification, and the contents described in the present specification should not be interpreted in a limited manner. In order to determine the gist of the present invention, the claims section described at the beginning should be considered.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a network system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an access procedure from the sub processor 23 to the main memory 24. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the software cell. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a data area of the software cell when the DMA command is a status return command. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a plurality of information processing apparatuses operate as one virtual information processing apparatus. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a software configuration of the information processing controller. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a state in which four information processing apparatuses operate as one virtual information processing apparatus. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of distributed processing in the system shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of each information processing apparatus and system. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of the hard disk recorder in FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a software configuration of the hard disk recorder in FIG. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of the PDA in FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a software configuration of the PDA in FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of the portable CD player in FIG. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a software configuration of the portable CD player in FIG. FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of a network system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a hierarchical structure of functions and additional functions. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the configuration of the additional function program. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a GUI screen on which a user selects a function. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a format example of a software cell for performing a function selection notification. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a format example of the software cell for notifying the additional function. FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a format example of a software cell for notifying a storable destination. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a format example of a software cell for notifying that there is no storable storage medium. FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating a format example of a software cell for notifying that there is no additional function that can be processed. FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a list screen of the additional function list. FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating a screen configuration example of the storable destination list. FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a format example of a software cell for notifying designation of a storage destination. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure for the user to select a function and a data storage destination. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a format example of software cells for requesting a list of processable functions. FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating a format example of a software cell including a processable function list. FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the function and storage destination presentation and selection processing. FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of additional function presentation processing. FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure performed in the information processing apparatus serving as the master apparatus when a plurality of functions are executed simultaneously by cooperation of a plurality of information processing apparatuses on the network. FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating a format example of a software cell for remotely requesting the information processing apparatus to load an execution program. FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for loading and executing the requested program by the information processing apparatus serving as the slave apparatus in response to a load command from the master apparatus. FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating a format example of a software cell for the slave device to notify the master device of completion of loading of the function program. FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an operation sequence when the “replay” function and the “re-encode” function are selected and the result of “re-encode” is stored in the “external storage medium”. FIG. 38 is a diagram showing an operation sequence when the “playback” function and the “re-encode” function are processed simultaneously. FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an operation sequence when the “reproduction” function and the “scene recognition” function are selected and the result of “scene recognition” is stored in the “hard disk drive”. FIG. 40 is a diagram showing an operation sequence when the “playback” function and the “scene recognition” function are processed simultaneously.

Claims (9)

An information processing system that operates as a single virtual information processing device by a cooperative operation of a plurality of information processing devices connected to a network,
Function management means for managing a correspondence relationship between functions executed in the virtual information processing apparatus and additional functions that can be executed in association with each function;
A function presenting means for presenting a function executable in the virtual information processing apparatus and accepting selection of a function by a user;
An additional function presenting means for searching for an additional function associated with the selected function in response to selection of the function in the function presenting means, presenting the function to the user, and accepting selection of the additional function by the user; ,
A function executing means for executing the function selected by the user and the additional function by any one of the information processing devices connected to the network;
An information processing system comprising: The function management means associates, as an additional function, another function that uses data necessary for processing to execute the function.
The information processing system according to claim 1. A device search means for searching the network for an information processing device having a processing capability capable of executing the function and the additional function;
The function presenting means or the additional function presenting means presents to the user a function or an additional function that is known to exist as an information processing apparatus that can be executed by the device searching means.
The information processing system according to claim 1. Some of the functions or additional functions include a function for storing data generated when processing the function.
A storage medium searching means for searching the network for an information processing apparatus including a storage medium capable of storing data generated during processing of the additional function;
The function presenting means or the additional function presenting means presents to the user a function or an additional function that is known by the storage medium searching means to have a data storage destination.
The information processing system according to claim 1. An information processing method for operating a plurality of information processing devices connected to a network as a single virtual information processing device,
A function management step for managing a correspondence relationship between a function executed in the virtual information processing apparatus and an additional function that can be executed in association with each function;
A function presenting step for presenting a function executable in the virtual information processing apparatus and accepting a function selection by a user;
In response to selection of a function in the function presentation step, an additional function presentation step for searching for an additional function associated with the selected function and presenting it to the user and accepting selection of the additional function by the user; ,
A function execution step of executing the function selected by the user and the additional function by any one of the information processing devices connected to the network;
An information processing method comprising: In the function management step, another function that uses data necessary for processing to execute the function is associated as an additional function.
The information processing method according to claim 5. A device search step of searching the network for an information processing device having a processing capability capable of executing the function and the additional function;
In the function presenting step or the additional function presenting step, a function or an additional function that has been found to exist that can be executed by the device search step is presented to the user.
The information processing method according to claim 5. Some of the functions or additional functions include a function for storing data generated when processing the function.
A storage medium search step of searching on the network for an information processing apparatus including a storage medium capable of storing data generated during processing of the additional function;
In the function presenting step or the additional function presenting step, a function or an additional function that is known to have a data storage destination by the storage medium searching step is presented to the user.
The information processing method according to claim 5. A computer program described in a computer-readable format so that a plurality of information processing devices connected to a network are linked to operate as a single virtual information processing device on a computer system,
A function management step for managing a correspondence relationship between a function executed in the virtual information processing apparatus and an additional function that can be executed in association with each function;
A function presenting step for presenting a function executable in the virtual information processing apparatus and accepting a function selection by a user;
In response to selection of a function in the function presentation step, an additional function presentation step for searching for an additional function associated with the selected function and presenting it to the user and accepting selection of the additional function by the user; ,
A function execution step of executing the function selected by the user and the additional function by any one of the information processing devices connected to the network;
A computer program comprising:

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