JP2005293314A - Filing method, filing device and filing program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a filing method or the like allowing the easy distinction of the relevance of files based on a time or an attribute of each of the file at a glance. <P>SOLUTION: Present date information is acquired (S21), and a file wherein a generation date of the file included in a selected folder is within a prescribed period is extracted (S22). Next, a displayed period is calculated (S23), and a display position of a file mark corresponding to the date when the file is generated is calculated (S24). Thereafter, a display attribute of the file mark is determined on the basis of the file attribute such as, which of a static image, a moving image and a sound the file is related to, a compression method thereof, and a recording time length (S25). Data for displaying a time chart is generated on the basis of the information thereof (S26), and the time chart is displayed on the basis of the generated data (S27). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a filing method, a filing device, and a filing program for handling electronic files.

  In an information processing apparatus such as a computer, an operating system is generally operated and various application programs are executed on the operating system. This operating system performs task management, memory management, disk management, and the like, and for the disk management, for example, a data management method using a hierarchical structure using a directory or the like is widely known.

  However, when such a file management method is used, it is necessary to access a directory having a hierarchical structure a plurality of times to obtain necessary information, and it takes time to obtain data.

As an example of a proposal made by paying attention to such a point, there is a technique described in JP-A-10-187743 (Patent Document 1). The data display method described in Patent Document 1 includes a storage unit that stores a plurality of data having time information and classification information, a time coordinate on a wall surface in the depth direction of the screen, and a floor surface in the width direction of the screen. A coordinate space generating means for generating coordinates; and a graphic generating means for generating a graphic representing the contents of the data; and the time information and classification information of the data in a coordinate space composed of the wall surface and the floor surface. Based on the above, the figure is displayed. As a result, the operator can grasp each data file at a glance and at the same time intuitively grasp the temporal and categorical positioning of the data file. .
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-187743

  However, with the technique described in Patent Document 1, although the time-series order of data files can be grasped, the temporal positional relationship cannot be grasped intuitively at a glance. That is, for example, the second data file is generated almost simultaneously after the first data file, and the fourth data file is generated after several hours after the third data file. In the technique described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to grasp the generation order, but one is generated at the same time and the other is generated after a lapse of several hours. It cannot be said that it is easy to grasp intuitively that it is a thing. Also, if a large number of files were displayed at once, it was impossible to grasp the attributes of each file.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a filing method, a filing device, and a filing program that make it possible to easily determine the relationship between files based on time and the attributes of each file at a glance. The purpose is to provide.

  In order to achieve the above object, the filing method according to the first aspect of the present invention provides date and time information indicating the generation date and time of the file, date and time information indicating the modification date and time of the file, and date and time information included in the file. A date and time information extraction step for extracting at least one of the above and a file mark representing the file in a time series on a straight line or a curve corresponding to the date and time information extracted by the date and time information extraction step A time chart generating step for generating the time chart, and a time chart displaying step for displaying the time chart generated by the time chart generating step.

  The “date and time” includes a wide range of time concepts such as year, month, day, hour, minute, and second.

  Further, the filing method according to the second invention is the filing method according to the first invention, wherein the time chart generating step is such that the time relationship between the time-sequentially adjacent files is a file on the time chart. A time chart is generated so as to be maintained even at a position interval along the straight line or curve between the marks.

  Further, the filing method according to the third invention is the filing method according to the first invention, wherein the time chart generating step is performed when the time interval between the adjacent files in time series exceeds a predetermined time interval. The file mark corresponding to each of these files is narrowed in the position interval along the straight line or curve, and at least a part of the time interval is omitted. It arrange | positions in the position of between.

  In a filing method according to a fourth invention, in the filing method according to the third invention, the time chart generating step further generates the abbreviated mark as an abbreviated mark such that the length of the omitted time is displayed. It is characterized by that.

  The filing method according to a fifth invention is the filing method according to the first to fourth inventions, wherein the time chart display step can display at least a part of the time chart enlarged or reduced in the time direction. It is characterized by.

  A filing method according to a sixth invention is the filing method according to the first to fifth inventions, wherein the file is one of a still image data file, a moving image data file, and an audio data file.

  A filing method according to a seventh invention is the filing method according to the sixth invention, wherein the still image data file is generated by imaging by an imaging device, and date and time information indicating a generation date and time of the file, or The date / time information included in the file is an imaging date / time.

  A filing method according to an eighth invention is the filing method according to the sixth invention, wherein the moving image data file is generated by recording by an imaging device, and date and time information indicating a generation date and time of the file, or The date / time information included in the file substantially includes at least one of a recording start date / time and a recording end date / time or a recording start date / time and a recording time.

  A filing method according to a ninth invention is the filing method according to the sixth invention, wherein the audio data file is generated by recording by a recording device, and date and time information indicating a generation date and time of the file, or The date / time information included in the file substantially includes at least one of a recording start date / time and a recording end date / time or a recording start date / time and a recording time.

  A filing method according to a tenth invention is the filing method according to any one of the first to ninth inventions, wherein the file mark includes a time mark representing a temporal position of the file on the straight line or a curve, and an attribute of the file. And a file mark to be displayed.

  A filing method according to an eleventh invention is characterized in that, in the filing method according to the tenth invention, the file mark includes an icon corresponding to a file configured to have a predetermined size. To do.

  A filing method according to a twelfth invention is the filing method according to any one of the first to sixth inventions, wherein a selection step for selecting one or more of the file marks, and information relating to a file corresponding to the file mark selected in the selection step And an information display step of displaying at least one of the icon corresponding to the file configured to have a predetermined size in a predetermined information area.

  A filing method according to a thirteenth invention is the filing method according to the twelfth invention, wherein the file mark selected in the selection step corresponds to a still image data file or a moving image data file. The icon displayed in the information area is an icon configured by an index image related to a corresponding still image or moving image.

  A filing method according to a fourteenth aspect is the filing method according to the twelfth aspect, wherein the information area is set when the file mark selected in the selection step corresponds to an audio data file or a moving image data file. It further includes a preview playback step of preview playback of the audio data file or moving image data file by operating the pointer.

  A filing method according to a fifteenth invention is the filing method according to the first invention, wherein the time chart generating step arranges the file mark on a plurality of straight lines or curves corresponding to file types. The time chart display step is a step of displaying each of the plurality of time charts at different positions in a direction perpendicular to the time series direction so that the positions in the time series direction coincide with each other. Features.

  A filing device according to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention extracts at least one of date / time information indicating the generation date / time of the file, date / time information indicating the modification date / time of the file, and date / time information included in the file. Time to generate a time chart in which the file mark representing the file is arranged in a time series on a straight line or a curve corresponding to the date information extracted by the date information extraction means It comprises a chart generating means and a time chart display means for displaying the time chart generated by the time chart generating means.

  A filing program according to a seventeenth aspect of the invention provides a computer with at least one of date / time information indicating the generation date / time of the file, date / time information indicating the modification date / time of the file, and date / time information included in the file. And a time chart in which a file mark representing the file is arranged in a time series on a straight line or a curve corresponding to the date information extracted by the date information extraction step. It is a program for executing a time chart generation step to be generated and a time chart display step for displaying the time chart generated by the time chart generation step.

  According to the filing method, filing apparatus, and filing program of the present invention, it becomes possible to easily determine the relevance between files based on time and the attributes of each file at a glance.

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

  1 to 25 show a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a main part of the configuration of the information processing apparatus.

  The information processing apparatus 1 is configured almost in the same manner as a general information processing apparatus such as a personal computer, and functions as a filing apparatus by executing a filing program in the information processing apparatus 1 or filing. It can be said that the method is being implemented.

  The information processing apparatus 1 includes a display unit 3 as a time chart display unit, an information storage unit 4 as an information storage unit, an operation unit 5 as an operation unit, a program storage unit 6 as a program storage unit, and a communication unit as a communication unit. 7 and a processing unit 8 which is a processing unit and serves as a date and time information extraction unit and a time chart generation unit.

  The display unit 3 performs display related to the information processing apparatus 1. When the filing program is executed in the information processing apparatus 1, a program screen related to the filing program is displayed. As will be described later, various buttons and the like are arranged on the program screen so that operations can be performed.

  The information storage unit 4 stores the image information input from the communication unit 7 and also stores data and setting values when processing is performed by the filing program.

  The operation unit 5 is for an operator to perform various operation inputs while observing the display unit 3, and includes, for example, a keyboard and a mouse.

  The program storage unit 6 stores an operating system and a filing program executed on the operating system.

  The communication unit 7 inputs image data from a digital camera, inputs video data from a digital video, or audio data from a digital audio recorder via, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) or a wireless LAN. It is for inputting. Of course, the communication unit 7 can output not only the input but also the output.

  The processing unit 8 includes, for example, a CPU and the like, and controls the information processing apparatus 1 including the display unit 3, the information storage unit 4, the operation unit 5, the program storage unit 6, the communication unit 7, and the processing unit 8. It is a control means for controlling automatically, and is also a processing means for executing various processes.

  Next, the program screen displayed on the display unit 3 when the filing program is executed in the information processing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a program screen of a filing program when a folder, a time chart, and file information are displayed.

  This screen shows a screen displayed as one window on a multi-window type operating system having a graphic user interface, for example.

  The window 11 includes an operation button area 11 a in which various operation buttons are arranged, a folder area 11 b for displaying a folder storing files, a time chart area 11 c for displaying a time chart 21, An information display area 11d for displaying information related to the file selected in the time chart area 11c is displayed.

  In the operation button area 11a, an enlarge button 13 for enlarging and displaying the time chart 21 displayed in the time chart area 11c in the time direction, and for reducing and displaying the time chart 21 in the time direction. In this example, a reduction button 14 and a setting button 15 for calling a setting screen related to display in the time chart area 11c as shown in FIG.

  As described above, the folder 18 in which files are stored is displayed in the folder area 11b. For example, each folder 18 is displayed as a tree structure configured in the file system. When the folder cannot be displayed in the folder area 11b, the scroll bar 12b is automatically displayed. By operating the scroll bar 12b via the operation unit 5 or the like, the display target folder is scrolled so that a folder that is not displayed can be displayed. By clicking and selecting the target folder 18a among the displayed folders 18 with a mouse or the like, the files included in the folder 18a are displayed in the time chart area 11c. It has become.

  In the time chart area 11 c, a time chart 21 configured by time-sequentially arranging file marks 23 indicating the existence of files on the time axis 22 is displayed together with a time scale 25. Here, a vertical line segment is used as an example of the file mark 23, and a line segment having a different length or a different line type is used as the line segment according to the attribute of the file. The setting of these line types will be described in detail later.

  In addition, a superimposition index 24 is shown below some of the file marks 23. The superimposition index 24 indicates the number of image files that display only one file mark 23 and are superimposed immediately below when a plurality of image files are too close in time to be displayed separately. Is displayed to indicate its existence. Therefore, for example, a portion where “2” is displayed as the superimposition index 24 indicates that two image files exist at the temporal position of the file mark 23.

  The time chart 21 is proportional to time in this display example, and the display length on the time axis 22 is the same as the actual time length (more precisely, proportional). It is displayed. The time chart 21 is not limited to being displayed in proportion to the time, but a part of the time chart 21 can be omitted as will be described later, or the magnitude relationship between the time intervals is maintained although not proportional to the time. It is also possible to perform other displays as described above.

  The time chart area 11c further includes a chart start time display 26a indicating the time when the display of the time chart 21 is started, and a chart end time display 26b indicating the time when the display of the time chart 21 is ended. Are displayed below the time scale 25. In the example shown in FIG. 2, since the time scale 25 indicates what time in the day, the chart start time display 26a and the chart end time display 26b are displayed here only for the date. Is displayed, but when the time chart 21 is enlarged as will be described later and only the display is made in units of minutes, for example, the display until “hour” is performed in addition to the date. Yes. That is, the time can be accurately grasped by referring to both the time scale 25, the chart start time display 26a, and the chart end time display 26b.

  When the file type to be displayed on the time chart 21 is determined, a file type display 27 indicating the file type is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the displayed file type is displayed. Indicates that it is an image file. Note that the file type display 27 is not limited to being performed using characters, but may of course be performed using symbols, icons, and the like.

  In addition, when the files included in the selected folder 18a cannot be displayed on the time chart 21, the scroll bar 12c is automatically displayed. By operating the scroll bar 12c via the operation unit 5 or the like, the time chart can be scrolled to display files generated in different time zones.

  The information display area 11d is an area for displaying information related to the file. In the time chart area 11c, the pointer 39 is operated using a mouse or the like, and one of the file marks 23 arranged on the time chart 21 is pointed. Then, information about the file indicated by the pointed file mark 23 is displayed in the information display area 11d. Here, since the file mark 23 indicates an image file, an index image 31 and image information 32 relating to the image are displayed in the information display area 11d. Examples of the displayed image information 32 include file name, shooting date, shooting time, exposure, focal length, white balance (WB), strobe (on / off), and the like. Although a display example when one file is pointed and selected is shown here, a plurality of files can be selected, and a display example of the information display area 11d at this time will be described later. . Further, instead of displaying such information as the information display area 11d below the time chart area 11c, for example, a pop-up display may be performed when the file mark 23 is pointed with the pointer 39.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of display of the time chart 21 and the time scale 25.

  As the line segment indicating the file mark 23, two types of a short line segment and a long line segment are used in this example according to the first attribute relating to the file. Furthermore, as a line segment indicating the file mark 23, two types of line types, a solid line and a dotted line, are used according to the second attribute relating to the file. Examples of the first attribute and the second attribute relating to the file will be described later.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a display in which part of the time chart 21 and the time scale 25 is omitted.

  When the time chart 21 is displayed, a file group generated with a long time interval may be displayed. For example, some files are created in a relatively short time interval around noon on one day, and the next file is created again on the next day.

  In such a case, when trying to display the time chart along the real time, the portion where the file mark 23 does not exist occupies a lot on the time axis 22, but locally concentrates where the file mark 23 exists. Therefore, the display is not so easy to see. At this time, an abbreviated display as shown in FIG. 4 can be performed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 4, the omission mark 28 is displayed on the time axis 22 to indicate that omission is performed in the omission mark 28 portion. As shown in the figure, the omission mark 28 indicates the omitted time interval by a number. For example, the portion described as “18H” indicates that the 18 hour time interval is omitted. In this example, the unit is represented by the letter “H” in units of one hour, but is represented by the letter “M” when the unit is one minute, and the letter “D” when the unit is one day. It is possible. Of course, the same applies when other units are omitted.

  As described above, the time chart 21 is not necessarily displayed along the real time, and the display time can be set by omitting the time scale or compressing it functionally. For example, the display time interval may be displayed as a half power of the real time interval, or may be displayed using a logarithm, etc., but not limited to this, and other flexible time display may be performed. Is also possible. If such a display is made such that the short time interval is longer than the actual time and the long time interval is shorter than the actual time, the file mark 23 is further separated within the limited time axis length. It can be displayed, and it becomes easier to grasp how the images are distributed and exist. In this case, it is desirable to change the time scale so that the relationship between the distances between the adjacent file marks 23 is maintained, and the above-described correspondence such as 1/2 power satisfies this.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating another example of the display of the time chart 21 and the time scale 25.

  In the example shown in FIG. 5, the file mark 23 is divided into a time mark 23a and a file icon 23b as an attribute mark for display.

  The time mark 23a is displayed on the time axis 22 as a line segment orthogonal to the time axis 22. Unlike the file mark 23 as described above, the length and line type of the line segment are single. Yes. This is because the time mark 23a is for indicating only the temporal position where the file is generated.

  The file icon 23b is displayed at a position away from the top or bottom of the time mark 23a via a leader line or the like. If the file is an image file related to a still image, for example, a thumbnail image of the image is displayed. An index image, which is a reduced image corresponding to, is displayed as an icon. If the file is a video file related to a moving image, an icon representing the moving image may be displayed. On the other hand, if a plurality of time marks 23a should be displayed originally, but it is difficult to display them separately because they are close to each other in time, a plurality of file icons 23b are provided via a lead line or the like. Is displayed to indicate that there are a plurality of images.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of display of the time chart 21 and the time scale 25 related to a plurality of types of files.

  In the example shown in FIG. 6, an image file (still image data file), a video file (moving image data file), and an audio file (audio data file) are displayed on different time charts for each file type. In correspondence with these file types, file type displays 27, 27v, and 27s are performed by characters.

  The still image data file is generated by imaging with, for example, a digital camera as an imaging device, and the date / time information indicating the generation date / time of the file or the date / time information included in the file is an imaging date / time.

  The moving image data file is generated by recording with, for example, a digital video camera as an imaging device. The date / time information indicating the generation date / time of the file, or the date / time information included in the file includes the recording start date / time and It substantially includes at least one of the recording end date and time or the recording start date and time and the recording time.

  The audio data file is generated by recording with, for example, a digital recording device as a recording device. The date / time information indicating the generation date / time of the file, or the date / time information included in the file includes the recording start date / time and the recording date / time. It substantially includes at least one of an end date and time or a recording start date and time and a recording time.

  First, the time chart relating to the image file is the same as that described with reference to FIG.

  A time chart relating to a video file is configured by arranging a file mark 41 formed of a belt-like box on a time axis 22v (here, shown by a two-dot chain line as an example). The length along the time axis 22v indicates the time from the start of recording to the end of recording. Each file mark 41 can change the pattern pattern, the color, and the width of the band in the direction perpendicular to the time axis 22v according to the attribute of the file. This will be described with reference to FIG.

  The time chart related to the audio file is also almost the same as the time chart related to the video file described above, and a file mark made up of a band-shaped box on the time axis 22s (here, shown by a one-dot chain line as an example). The length of the file mark 42 along the time axis 22s indicates the time from the start of recording to the end of recording. Similarly to the above, each file mark 42 can change the pattern, color, and width of the band in the direction perpendicular to the time axis 22s according to the file attributes.

  In addition, only one time scale 25 is provided in common for all image files, video files, and audio files. That is, even if a plurality of time charts are displayed, the same coordinates correspond to the same time. It has become a thing. As with the time scale 25, only one chart start time display 26a and one chart end time display 26b are displayed in common with a plurality of time charts.

  When the number of time charts to be displayed is large and cannot be displayed in the time chart area 11c, the scroll bar 12c ′ is automatically displayed on the right side of the time chart area 11c. ing. By operating the scroll bar 12c 'via the operation unit 5 or the like, the display in the time chart area 11c is scrolled in the vertical direction, and different time charts can be displayed.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating another example of the display of the time chart 21 and the time scale 25 related to a plurality of types of files.

  In the example shown in FIG. 6, a time chart is provided independently for each file type, but in the example shown in FIG. 7, different types of files are displayed on one time chart. Is.

  An image file is displayed by a file mark 23 consisting of line segments, and a video file and an audio file are displayed by file marks 41 and 42 consisting of boxes, respectively. And audio files may overlap and remain indistinguishable. Therefore, the presence of the file marks 41 and 42 with the overlapping portions is indicated by shifting the display position in the vertical direction. The image file and the video file or the image file and the audio file are displayed so as to be superimposed as they are. At this time, superimposition is performed such that the file mark 23 indicating the image file whose time length is basically 0 is on the upper side. Note that when the file marks 23 relating to the image file overlap each other, the superimposition index 24 is displayed in the same manner as described above.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a state of the screen when the setting button 15 is pressed in the window 11 shown in FIG.

  At this time, a display attribute setting area 11e is displayed instead of the information display area 11d. In the operation button area 11a, an information display button 16 for returning to the display as shown in FIG. 2 is displayed instead of the setting button 15 in FIG.

  The display attribute setting area 11e is an area for setting the display of file attributes. The example shown in FIG. 8 is an example in which display attributes are set when the file is an image file.

  In the upper part of the display attribute setting area 11e, there are a selection box 51 for setting the number of timelines (time axis), a selection box 52 for setting the display form, and a line for setting attributes. A selection box 53 for designating and a selection box 54 for setting a file type to be displayed as a file mark on the setting target line are displayed.

  The selection box 51 is used to set the number of time axes 22 in the time chart 21 displayed in the time chart area 11c, and one or more lines can be selected.

  In the case of displaying a plurality of types of files, the selection box 52 is shown as “separated” as independent time charts as shown in FIG. 6 or one time as shown in FIG. The display form is to select whether it is “superimposed” with a slight shift on the chart. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the display form shown separately is selected.

  The selection box 53 is used to select which time chart the display attribute is set when the display of the plurality of time charts 21 is selected by the selection box 51. FIG. In the example shown, the line number is 1, and the first time chart 21 is selected.

  The selection box 54 is used to set what type of file is allocated to the time chart selected by the selection box 53. In the example shown in FIG. Is selected.

  In the display attribute setting area 11e, a selection box for setting how to associate the line segment attribute that is the file mark and the attribute of the image related to the image file is displayed.

  First, the selection box 55 is a selection box for selecting an image attribute with respect to a line length that is an attribute of a file mark. In FIG. 8, an image type is selected.

  There are three types of line lengths: long line, medium line, and short line. RAW data is selected in the selection box 55a for selecting a long line, and Exif and JPEG are selected in a selection box 55b for selecting a medium line. In the selection box 55c for selecting a short line, other image types are assigned.

  Next, the selection box 56 is a selection box for selecting an image attribute for the line type that is the file mark attribute. In FIG. 8, the image size is selected.

  There are two types of line types, a solid line and a dotted line. A large image size is selected in the selection box 56a for selecting a solid line, and a small image size is selected in a selection box 56b for selecting a dotted line.

  Further, the selection box 57 is a selection box for selecting an image attribute with respect to the line width as the file mark attribute. In FIG. 8, a strobe is selected.

  There are three types of line widths: thick line, medium line, and thin line. The selection box 57a for selecting a thick line is not set, and the selection box 57b for selecting a medium line is selected to be strobe off. In the selection box 57c for making a selection, strobe on is selected.

  In addition to these, for example, color can be given as an visually distinguishable attribute related to the line segment used as the file mark, and the attribute of the image file may be assigned to the color. good.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display attribute setting area 11e corresponding to a video file.

  Video files and audio files are set as shown in FIG. 9 because the file mark is displayed as a box instead of a line segment.

  The selection boxes 51 to 54 are displayed in the upper part in the display attribute setting area 11e as in the example shown in FIG. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the timeline is “2” by the selection box 51, the display form is “superimpose” by the selection box 52, the line number is “2” by the selection box 53, and the file type is the selection box 54. Are selected as “video files”.

  Here, since the file type is a video file, the display shown in FIG. 9 is displayed. However, by selecting an image file as the file type, the display returns to the display shown in FIG.

  That is, since a box is used as a file mark when a video file is selected, the display attribute setting area 11e has a selection box 61 for selecting a pattern pattern of the box and a time scale 25 of the box. A selection box 62 for selecting the width in the direction perpendicular to the line and a selection box 63 for selecting the color of the box are displayed.

  The selection box 61 is a selection box for selecting the attribute of the video file with respect to the pattern that is the attribute of the box. In FIG. 9, the shooting mode is selected.

  For example, there are three types of patterns: hatched hatching, cross hatching, and horizontal hatching. High quality is selected in the selection box 61a that performs selection related to diagonal hatching, and standard image quality is selected in the selection box 61b that performs selection related to cross hatching. Is selected, and a long play is assigned in the selection box 61c for performing selection related to horizontal line hatching.

  Next, the selection box 62 is a selection box for selecting the attribute of the video file with respect to the width that is the attribute of the box. In FIG. 9, the frame rate is selected.

  There are two types of frame rates, “wide” and “narrow”. In a selection box 62a for selecting “wide”, a frame rate of 30 frames per second is selected, and a selection box 62b for selecting “narrow”. The frame rate of 24 frames per second is selected.

  Furthermore, the selection box 63 is a selection box for selecting the attribute of the video file for the color that is the attribute of the box, and is not used in FIG.

  There are three types of colors, black, blue, and green, and selection boxes 63a to 63c are provided corresponding to the respective colors. However, since the colors are not used here, the attributes of the video file are as follows. Nothing is selected.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a time chart area 11c when the time axis for display is enlarged / reduced.

  On the time chart 21 as shown in FIG. 10A, when the selection area 65 is set with a mouse or the like, the selection area 65 is enlarged and displayed so as to become a new display range in the time chart area 11c. As shown in FIG. As a result, in FIG. 10 (A), the file indicated by the superimposition index 34 as being overlapped is separated into two separate files and three overlapping files in FIG. 10 (B). Is displayed.

  Similarly, when the selection area 65 is set again with a mouse or the like on the time chart 21 as shown in FIG. 10B, the selection area 65 is enlarged so that it becomes a new display range in the time chart area 11c. Are displayed as shown in FIG. At this time, also in FIG. 10B, the files indicated by the superposition index 34 as being overlapped are displayed separately as separate files.

  In such a display example, transition from the state of FIG. 10B to the state of FIG. 10A corresponds to reduction of the time axis, and from the state of FIG. 10B to the state of FIG. 10C. The transition to is equivalent to the expansion of the time axis.

  The time axis can be enlarged by operating the enlargement button 13 as shown in FIG. 2 and the like. Similarly, the time axis can be reduced by operating the reduction button 14. it can.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating another example of the time chart area 11c when the display time axis is enlarged / reduced.

  The time scale shown in FIG. 11 is a time stretch scale 25A that can be expanded and contracted, and is configured to be slightly wider so that a drag operation using a mouse or the like is possible. In addition, shrink buttons 66 for reducing the time stretch scale 25A are provided on the left and right of the time stretch scale 25A.

  First, in the display state as shown in FIG. 11B, by operating the shrink button 66, the time stretch scale 25A and the time axis 22 of the time chart 21 are reduced so as to maintain the center position. Then, the state shifts to a state as shown in FIG.

  Further, in the display state as shown in FIG. 11B, a desired position on the time stretch scale 25A is pointed with the pointer 39 and clicked with the mouse or the like, for example, on the right side while maintaining the pressed state. By moving the mouse button and releasing the mouse button at the right end, the time stretch scale 25A and the time axis 22 of the time chart 21 are enlarged, and a state as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the relationship of the time axis before and after the operation when the time stretch scale is expanded by dragging in the right direction, and FIG. 13 is the time axis before and after the operation when the time stretch scale is expanded by dragging in the left direction. It is a figure which shows the relationship.

  12 and 13, Ts is the display start date and time in the time chart before the operation, Te is the display end date and time in the time chart before the operation, Tf is the display end date and time in the time chart after the operation according to FIG. 12, and Tt is the figure. 13 is the display start date and time in the time chart after the operation of 13, Tx is the generation date and time of the attention file, O is the display start coordinate, E is the display end coordinate, A is the drag start coordinate, B is the drag end coordinate, and X is the operation of the attention file. Display coordinates on the previous time axis, and Y indicate display coordinates on the time axis after the operation of the file of interest.

First, in the example shown in FIG. 12, the time chart is enlarged with O as a base point by a drag operation in the right direction, and the enlargement ratio R is as shown in the following Equation 1.
[Equation 1]
R = B / A

From this enlargement ratio R, the relationship between the display coordinates X and Y on the time axis before and after the operation of the file of interest is as shown in the following Equation 2.
[Equation 2]
Y = X ・ R

The display end date and time Tf in the time chart after the operation can be calculated as shown in the following Equation 3.
[Equation 3]
Tf = {(R−1) · Ts + Te} / R

Next, in the example shown in FIG. 13, the time chart is enlarged with E as a base point by the drag operation in the left direction, and the enlargement ratio R is as shown in the following Expression 4.
[Equation 4]
R = (EB) / (EA)

From this enlargement ratio R, the relationship between the display coordinates X, Y on the time axis before and after the operation of the file of interest is as shown in the following Equation 5.
[Equation 5]
Y = E- (EX) * R

Then, the display end date and time Tf in the time chart after the operation can be calculated as shown in the following Expression 6.
[Equation 6]
Tf = {(R−1) · Te + Ts} / R

  Next, FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example in which range selection is performed in the time chart and an index image related to an image file in the selected range is displayed.

  In the window 11, the operation button area 11a, the time chart area 11c, and the information indication area 11d are displayed.

  Here, the reduction button 14 and the setting button 15 are displayed in the operation button area 11a.

  When the selection area 65 is set by a drag operation with the mouse or the like in the time chart area 11c, an index image 69 of a file included in the selection area 65 (here, an image file is taken as an example) An index is displayed by arranging in each marking area 68 of the information marking area 11d. The index image 69 is a so-called thumbnail image.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example in which range selection is performed in the time chart and information related to the audio file in the selected range is displayed.

  As in FIG. 14, the window 11 displays an operation button area 11a, a time chart area 11c, and an information indication area 11d.

  In the time chart area 11c, a file mark 42 relating to an audio file is displayed, and a selection area 65 is set by a drag operation with a mouse or the like.

  Information related to the audio file included in the selection area 65 is arranged and displayed in the information indicating area 11d. Here, audio icons 71 representing the audio file are displayed and accompanied by an extension indicating the file format. The file name, recording time, sampling rate, and number of channels are displayed as audio information 32s related to each audio file.

  When the pointer is moved on the voice icon 71 by operating a mouse or the like, the voice file is automatically preview-played. Of course, the preview reproduction is stopped by removing the point from the audio icon 71.

  Although FIG. 15 shows an example of displaying an audio file, the same applies to a video file. In the case of a video file, information about the video file is displayed in the information display area 11d together with the index image, and the video file is automatically previewed by moving the pointer over the index image and pointing. Played.

  Next, FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a time chart area in which file marks are arranged on a curved time axis.

  In the time chart area 11c, a time scale 25, a chart start time display 26a and a chart end time display 26b are displayed, and a time formed by placing a file mark 23 on a curved time axis 22 '. A chart is displayed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 16, the time scale 25 is configured in a straight line in the vertical direction with “day” as a unit.

  In addition, the portion where the density of the file marks 23 on the time axis 22 ′ is a curve that increases the angle with respect to the time scale 25 can reduce the overlap of the file marks 23. . For example, an image taken by a general user as a hobby is often taken in a time zone from daytime to evening, so the cycle is two days, such as a mountain or valley from midnight to early morning. A time axis 22 ′ having a substantially sine curve shape may be employed.

  Next, FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an operation corresponding to each operation when a filing program is executed on the information processing apparatus 1.

  When the filing program is executed on the operating system, after performing various initial settings, a predetermined display is displayed in the window 11 and the user enters a state of waiting for an operation of a button or the like.

  If it is detected that a folder has been selected (step S1), a time chart display process as described later is performed (step S2), and the process returns to a state of waiting for an operation again after the process.

  If it is detected that a file mark has been selected (step S3), a file information display process as described later is performed (step S4), and the process returns to a state of waiting for an operation again after the process.

  Further, when it is detected that the time chart range is selected (step S5), a file information list display process of files corresponding to the file marks included in the selected range as described later is performed (step S5). S6) After processing, it returns to the state of waiting for the operation again.

  When it is detected that the enlarge button 13 has been pressed (step S7), an enlargement process of a selected range on the time chart as described later is performed (step S8), and the operation is performed again after the process. Return to the waiting state.

  On the other hand, when it is detected that the reduction button 14 or the shrink button 66 is pressed (step S9), a time chart reduction process as described later is performed (step S10), and the operation is again waited after the process. Return to the state to do.

  If it is detected that the mouse is dragged on the time stretch scale 25A (step S11), a time chart enlargement / reduction process as described later is performed (step S12), and the operation is performed again after the process. Return to the waiting state.

  Further, when it is detected that the setting button 15 has been pressed (step S13), the display setting process as described later is performed (step S14), and the process returns to the state of waiting for the operation again after the process.

  If it is detected that the pointer is placed on the voice icon 71 in the information marking area 11d (step S15), the voice file corresponding to the voice icon 71 on which the mouse pointer is placed is reproduced (step S16). ). When it is detected that the mouse pointer has moved away from the audio icon 71 (step S17), the audio reproduction is stopped (step S18), and then the operation is returned to the state of waiting for the operation again.

  In FIG. 17, the automatic reproduction of the video file when the pointer is placed on the icon corresponding to the video file is not shown, but in this case, the above steps S15 to S18 are omitted. What is necessary is just to perform the process similar to.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing details of the time chart display process in step S2 of FIG.

  When this process is started, first, current date / time information is acquired (step S21), and files within a predetermined period included in the selected folder are extracted (step S22).

  Next, the display period is calculated (step S23), the display position on the time axis of the file mark corresponding to the date and time when the file was generated is calculated (step S24), and the file mark to be displayed from the file information of each file Display attributes are determined (step S25).

  Then, a time chart is generated (step S26), the generated time chart is displayed (step S27), and the process is completed.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing details of the file information display process in step S4 of FIG.

  When this process is started, the selected file is specified (step S31), and it is determined whether the selected file is a still image, a moving image, or another type of file (step S32).

  If it is a still image or a moving image, an index image of the selected still image or moving image is generated (step S33), and the index image is displayed (step S34).

  If it is determined in step S32 that the image is neither a still image nor a moving image, an icon corresponding to the file type is generated (step S35), and the generated icon is displayed (step S36).

  When the process of step S34 or step S36 is completed, the file information of the selected file is extracted (step S37), the extracted file information is displayed (step S38), and the process is completed.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing details of the file information list display process in step S6 of FIG.

  When this process is started, a selection period is calculated from the selection range (step S41), and a file included in the selection period is extracted (step S42).

  The most recently generated file is selected from the extracted files (step S43), and the first column of the list is selected (step S44).

  Here, it is determined whether or not the selected file is a still image or a moving image (step S45). If the selected file is a still image or a moving image, an index image of the selected still image or moving image is generated. The index image is displayed (step S47).

  If it is determined in step S45 that the image is neither a still image nor a moving image, an icon corresponding to the file type is generated (step S48), and the generated icon is displayed (step S49).

  When the process of step S47 or step S49 is completed, the file information of the selected file is extracted (step S50), and the extracted file information is displayed (step S51).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the processing of all the files included in the selection period has been completed (step S52). If not yet completed, the next old file is selected (step S53), and the list After selecting the next field (step S54), the process proceeds to step S45, and the above-described process is repeated.

  Thus, when it is confirmed in step S52 that all files have been processed, this processing is completed.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing details of the time chart enlargement process in step S8 of FIG.

  When this process is started, it is determined whether or not a range is selected in the time chart (step S61). If the range is selected, a selection period is calculated from the selected range (step S62), and the calculated selection is performed. A file included in the period is extracted (step S63).

  If it is determined in step S61 that the range has not been selected, a new display period is calculated from the current display period of the time chart (step S64), and the files included in the calculated new display period are stored. Extract (step S65).

  When the processing of step S63 or step S65 is completed, the display position of the file mark corresponding to the date and time when the file was generated is calculated (step S66), and the file mark display attribute to be displayed is determined from the file information of each file ( Step S67).

  Then, a time chart is generated (step S68), the generated time chart is displayed (step S69), and this process is completed.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing details of the time chart reduction processing in step S10 of FIG.

  When this process is started, a new display period is calculated from the current display period of the time chart (step S71), and files included in the calculated new display period are extracted (step S72).

  Then, the display position of the file mark corresponding to the date and time when the file was generated is calculated (step S73), and the file mark display attribute to be displayed is determined from the file information of each file (step S74).

  Thereafter, a time chart is generated (step S75), the generated time chart is displayed (step S76), and this process is completed.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing details of the time chart enlargement / reduction processing in step S12 of FIG.

  When this process is started, whether or not the date and time on the time chart when the mouse button is released in response to the mouse drag on the time stretch scale 25A is newer than the date and time on the time chart when the mouse button is pressed. Judgment is made (step S81). That is, when the time chart increases time in the right direction, for example, it is determined whether or not the mouse is dragged in the right direction on the time stretch scale 25A.

  Here, when the date and time on the time chart when the mouse button is released is newer than the date and time on the time chart when the mouse button is pressed, the display coordinates where the mouse button was pressed by the mouse drag and the display coordinates released. Based on the above, the enlargement ratio R is calculated as shown in Equation 1 above (Step S82), and the display coordinates of the file mark within the display period are calculated based on Equation 2 above (Step S83).

  Furthermore, the display end date and time of the time chart is calculated based on Equation 3 (step S84).

  On the other hand, in step S81, when the date and time when the mouse button is released on the time stretch scale 25A is not newer than the date and time when the mouse button is pressed, it is released from the display coordinates where the mouse button was pressed by mouse dragging. Based on the display coordinates, the enlargement ratio R is calculated as shown in Equation 4 (Step S85), and the display coordinates of the file mark within the display period are calculated based on Equation 5 (Step S86).

  Further, the display start date and time of the time chart is calculated based on the above formula 6 (step S87).

  When the process of step S84 or step S87 is completed, a time chart is calculated and generated (step S88), the generated time chart is displayed (step S89), and this process is completed.

  Here, when a drag operation is performed on the time stretch scale 25A, the time chart is enlarged by the processing described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13. It is not limited. That is, in this process, when dragging in the right direction is performed, the time chart is enlarged with the left end O as a base point as shown in FIG. 12, and when dragging in the left direction is performed, it is shown in FIG. Thus, since the time chart is enlarged with the right end E as a base point, the time chart is enlarged even if a drag operation is performed in either the left or right direction.

  On the other hand, even if the drag operation is performed in either the left or right direction, for example, if the calculation process shown in FIG. 12 and Formulas 1 to 3 is performed, the left end O is set when the drag operation is performed in the right direction. The time chart is enlarged from the base point, and when the drag operation is performed in the left direction, the time chart is reduced from the left end O as the base point.

  Similarly, even if the drag operation is performed in either the left or right direction, if the calculation process as shown in FIG. 13 and Formulas 4 to 6 is performed, the right end E is set as the base point when the drag operation is performed in the right direction. When the time chart is reduced and dragged in the left direction, the time chart is enlarged with the right end E as a base point.

  In the above description, the enlargement / reduction processing is performed by the drag operation on the time stretch scale 25A as the time scale. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the time chart 21 itself (for example, the portion of the time axis 22) is dragged with the mouse. By doing so, the enlargement / reduction process may be performed.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing details of the display setting process in step S14 of FIG.

  When this process is started, the display attribute setting area is displayed (step S91). When it is detected that the information display button is pressed (step S92), the attribute value set in the display attribute setting area is stored (step S92). S93). That is, when the user changes the setting of the attribute value in the display attribute setting area 11e between step S91 and step S92, the stored attribute value is reflected.

  Then, a file mark display attribute to be displayed is determined from the file information of each file (step S94), and a time chart is generated (step S95).

  Thereafter, the generated time chart is displayed (step S96), the information area is displayed (step S97), and this process is completed.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing details of another example of the time chart display process in step S2 of FIG. The time chart display process shown in FIG. 25 is different from the time chart display process shown in FIG. 18 and corresponds to the omission of the period as shown in FIG.

  When this process is started, the generation date and time of the oldest file and the generation date and time of the newest file are extracted within a predetermined period, and the period is set as a display target period (step S101).

  The display target period is multiplied by a predetermined magnification of less than 1 to calculate an omission target reference period (step S102). This omission target reference period is a threshold period for determining omission when the time interval is larger than this.

  Next, the second oldest file is set as a noticed file (step S103), and the time interval between this noticed file and the previous file generated is calculated (step S104). It is determined whether it is longer than the omission target reference period (step S105).

  Here, if it is longer than the omission target reference period, the target file and the calculated time interval are registered as omission targets (step S106).

  When the time interval is equal to or shorter than the omission target reference period in step S105 or when the process in step S106 is completed, it is determined whether or not the determination process has been performed for all the files generated in the predetermined period. (Step S107).

  If the determination process has not been completed for all the files, the next generated file is set as the file of interest (step S108), the process proceeds to step S104, and the process as described above is repeated. .

  Thus, when it is determined in step S107 that the determination process for all files has been completed, the correspondence between the unit length on the time chart screen and time is calculated based on the registered omission target information. (Step S109).

  The calculation in step S109 is performed as follows. First, when the display target period is A and the total of the omitted periods is B, the time displayed as the time chart 21 is AB. On the other hand, when the length of the time axis 22 on the screen of the time chart 21 is a, the length of the omission mark 38 on the screen is s, and the number of omission sections is n, the length on the screen used for displaying the time chart. Is a−n × s. Therefore, the time corresponding to the unit length on the screen is calculated as (A−B) / (a−n × s).

  The omission is performed in a predetermined time unit (for example, 1 hour unit). When a fraction appears in the omission section, the fractional time is displayed as the length of the time axis 22 of the time chart. For example, when the omitted section is 3 hours and 10 minutes, the omitted mark 38 displays that the omitted time is 3 hours. The interval between the file marks sandwiching the ellipsis 38 on the screen is the sum of the length of the ellipsis 38 and the length of the time axis 22 corresponding to 10 minutes.

  Next, it corresponds to the generation date and time based on the correspondence relationship between the unit length and time calculated in this way, the length s of the ellipsis mark on the screen, the number of omitted sections, and the fractional time of the omitted section. The display position of the file mark of each file is calculated (step S110).

  Next, based on the file information of each file, the display attribute of the file mark (file mark) (for example, when the file mark is a line segment, as described above, its line length, line type, line width, etc.) ) Is determined (step S111).

  Then, a time chart is generated (step S112), the generated time chart is displayed (step S113), and this process is completed.

  In the above description, when a range is specified on the time chart, there are cases where information on files within the specified range is displayed and cases where the specified range is enlarged. It can be set by mode setting or the like.

  In the above description, line segments and boxes are used as file marks. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and for example, symbols and other figures can be used, and various other displays can be used. Is also possible.

  Furthermore, in the above description, an image file, a video file, and an audio file are given as specific examples of files. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and is widely applied to general files handled in information processing apparatuses. Is possible.

  According to the first embodiment, since the file mark corresponding to the file is arranged and displayed on the time chart, the creation and update status of the file can be easily grasped along the flow of time. It becomes possible.

  At this time, since the display attribute of the file mark is made different according to the attribute of the file, the attribute of the file can be easily distinguished at a glance.

  When the file is an image file related to a still image, since a line segment is used as a file mark, a large number of file marks can be arranged in a small space.

  In addition, when a file is a video file related to a moving image or an audio file related to sound, a band-shaped box is used as a file mark, so it is easy to shoot and record video and sound with time continuity. Can grasp. Then, when there are a plurality of video files and audio files at the same time, the positions are slightly shifted, so that they are not completely superimposed and the existence of the files can always be grasped.

  Furthermore, since information on the selected file is displayed when the file is selected on the time chart, details regarding the file can be easily grasped. Since the selection can be performed at the point by the pointer, the operation can be facilitated and many files can be easily confirmed as compared with the case of selecting by the click operation.

  In addition, when a range is designated on the time chart, information on files included in the designated range is displayed in a list, so that details of a plurality of files can be easily confirmed.

  In addition, since the time chart can be enlarged or reduced as desired, the temporal distribution of the file can be grasped on an appropriate time scale. In addition, part of the time chart can be omitted or a time chart that is not linearly dependent on real time can be generated, so the file marks are clearly separated and displayed in a limited display space. It becomes possible to do.

  Thus, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to easily determine the relevance between files based on time at a glance, and an excellent human interface can be provided.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the Example mentioned above, Of course, a various deformation | transformation and application are possible within the range which does not deviate from the main point of invention.

  The present invention can be suitably used for a method, apparatus, program, etc. for handling electronic files.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a main part of a configuration of an information processing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention. The figure which shows the example of the program screen of a filing program when the folder, the time chart, and file information are displayed in the said Example 1. FIG. In the said Example 1, the figure which shows an example of a display of a time chart and a time scale. The figure which shows an example of the display which abbreviate | omits a part of time chart and time scale in the said Example 1. FIG. In the said Example 1, the figure which shows the other example of a display of a time chart and a time scale. In the said Example 1, the figure which shows an example of the display of the time chart and time scale which concern on multiple types of file. In the said Example 1, the figure which shows the other example of the display of the time chart which concerns on multiple types of file, and a time scale. The figure which shows the mode of a screen when the setting button is pushed in the window shown in the said FIG. In the said Example 1, the figure which shows the example of the display attribute setting area corresponding to a video file. In the said Example 1, the figure which shows an example of the time chart area when enlarging / reducing the time axis which performs a display. In the said Example 1, the figure which shows the other example of the time chart area when enlarging / reducing the time axis which performs a display. In the said Example 1, the figure which shows the relationship of the time axis before and behind operation when dragging a time stretch scale to the right direction, and expanding. In the said Example 1, the figure which shows the relationship of the time axis before and behind operation when dragging and expanding a time stretch scale to the left direction. The figure which shows the example which performs the range selection in the time chart of the said Example 1, and displays the index image which concerns on the image file of the selected range. The figure which shows the example which performs the range selection in the time chart of the said Example 1, and displays the information which concerns on the audio | voice file of the selected range. In the said Example 1, the figure which shows the example of the time chart area which has arrange | positioned the file mark on the curved time axis. 7 is a flowchart illustrating operations according to operations when a filing program is executed on the information processing apparatus in the first embodiment. The flowchart which shows the detail of the time chart display process in step S2 of the said FIG. The flowchart which shows the detail of the file information display process in step S4 of the said FIG. The flowchart which shows the detail of the file information list display process in step S6 of the said FIG. The flowchart which shows the detail of the time chart expansion process in step S8 of the said FIG. The flowchart which shows the detail of the time chart reduction process in step S10 of the said FIG. The flowchart which shows the detail of the time chart expansion / contraction process in step S12 of the said FIG. The flowchart which shows the detail of the display setting process in step S14 of the said FIG. The flowchart which shows the detail of the other example of the time chart display process in step S2 of the said FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Information processing apparatus 3 ... Display part (time chart display means)
4. Information storage unit (storage means, information storage means)
5. Operation unit (operation means)
6 ... Program storage section (storage means, program storage means)
7. Communication unit (communication means)
8: Processing unit (processing means, date and time information extracting means, time chart generating means)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 ... Window 11a ... Operation button area 11b ... Folder area 11c ... Time chart area 11d ... Information display area 11e ... Display attribute setting area 12b, 12c, 12c '... Scroll bar 13 ... Enlarge button 14 ... Reduce button 15 ... Setting button 16 ... Information display button 18 ... Folder 21 ... Time chart 22,22s, 22v, 22 '... Time axis 23,41,42 ... File mark 23a ... Time mark 23b ... File icon (attribute mark)
24 ... Superimposition index 25 ... Time scale 25A ... Time stretch scale 26a ... Chart start time display 26b ... Chart end time display 27, 27s, 27v ... File type display 28 ... Omission mark 31 ... Index image 32 ... Image information 32s ... Audio information DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 39 ... Pointer 51-57, 61-63 ... Selection box 65 ... Selection area 66 ... Shrink button 68 ... Marking area 69 ... Index image 71 ... Sound icon
Agent Patent Attorney Susumu Ito

Claims (17)

Date and time information extraction step for extracting at least one of date and time information indicating the generation date and time of the file, date and time information indicating the modification date and time of the file, and date and time information included in the file with respect to an electronic file When,
A time chart generating step for generating a time chart in which file marks representing the file are arranged in a time series on a straight line or on a curve corresponding to the date information extracted by the date information extraction step; ,
A time chart display step for displaying the time chart generated by the time chart generation step;
Including a filing method.   In the time chart generation step, the magnitude relationship of the time intervals between the adjacent files in the time series is maintained even at the position intervals along the straight line or curve between the file marks on the time chart. The filing method according to claim 1, wherein a time chart is generated.   When the time interval between the time-series adjacent files exceeds a predetermined time interval, the time chart generation step includes a position interval along the straight line or curve between the file marks corresponding to these files. 2. The filing method according to claim 1, wherein an omission mark for indicating that at least part of the display of the time interval is omitted is arranged at a position between the file marks.   4. The filing method according to claim 3, wherein the time chart generating step further generates the abbreviated mark as an abbreviated mark that displays the length of the omitted time.   5. The filing method according to claim 1, wherein in the time chart display step, at least a part of the time chart can be displayed by being enlarged or reduced in a time direction.   The filing method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the file is any one of a still image data file, a moving image data file, and an audio data file. The still image data file is generated by imaging by the imaging device,
The filing method according to claim 6, wherein the date information indicating the generation date of the file or the date information included in the file is an imaging date. The moving image data file is generated by recording by the imaging device,
The date / time information indicating the generation date / time of the file or the date / time information included in the file substantially includes at least one of a recording start date / time and a recording end date / time or a recording start date / time and a recording time. The filing method according to claim 6. The audio data file is generated by recording by a recording device,
The date / time information indicating the generation date / time of the file, or the date / time information included in the file substantially includes at least one of a recording start date / time and a recording end date / time, or a recording start date / time and a recording time. The filing method according to claim 6.   The said file mark is comprised including the time mark showing the temporal position of the file on the said straight line or a curve, and the attribute mark showing the attribute of this file, It is characterized by the above-mentioned. Item 14. The filing method according to any one of Items9.   11. The filing method according to claim 10, wherein the attribute mark includes an icon corresponding to a file configured to have a predetermined size. A selection step of selecting one or more of the above file marks;
An information display step for displaying at least one of information related to the file corresponding to the file mark selected in the selection step and an icon corresponding to the file configured to have a predetermined size in a predetermined information area. When,
The filing method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising:   When the file mark selected in the selection step corresponds to a still image data file or a moving image data file, the icon displayed in the information area is an index related to the corresponding still image or moving image. The filing method according to claim 12, wherein the filing method is an icon configured by an image.   When the file mark selected in the selection step corresponds to an audio data file or a moving image data file, the audio data file or moving image data file is preview-played by operating the pointer in the information area. The filing method according to claim 12, further comprising a preview reproduction step. The time chart generation step is a step of generating a time chart in which the file mark is arranged on a plurality of straight lines or curves corresponding to file types,
The time chart display step is a step of displaying each of the plurality of time charts at different positions in a direction perpendicular to the time series direction so that the positions in the time series direction coincide with each other. The filing method according to 1. Date and time information extracting means for extracting at least one of date and time information indicating the generation date and time of the file, date and time information indicating the modification date and time of the file, and date and time information included in the file with respect to an electronic file When,
A time chart generating means for generating a time chart in which file marks representing the file are arranged in a time series on a straight line or on a curve corresponding to the date and time information extracted by the date and time information extracting means; ,
Time chart display means for displaying the time chart generated by the time chart generation means;
A filing apparatus comprising: On the computer,
Date and time information extraction step for extracting at least one of date and time information indicating the generation date and time of the file, date and time information indicating the modification date and time of the file, and date and time information included in the file with respect to an electronic file When,
A time chart generating step for generating a time chart in which file marks representing the file are arranged in a time series on a straight line or on a curve corresponding to the date information extracted by the date information extraction step; ,
A time chart display step for displaying the time chart generated by the time chart generation step;
A filing program for running.

Images