JP2006065813A - Data synchronization system and data synchronization method for portable information device, and portable information device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a data synchronization system for portable information devices capable of easily performing each work of preparation, equipment configuration change and synchronous processing so that data synchronous processing can be easily executed between portable information devices. <P>SOLUTION: The portable information device includes a radio communication part, a storage part, a control part and a power source. The storage part stores a user identification number, an individual number which is set differently for every portable information device having the same user identification information, data that are an object of synchronous processing and update information showing an update time of the data. The control part confirms whether portable information device having the same user identification part is present in a radio communicable range or not, and compares, in a case that the portable information device having the same user identification number is present, the update information of this portable information device with the update information stored in the storage part. When the update information stored in the storage part is older than the update information of the other portable information device, the data stored in the storage part are updated with the data received from the other portable information device to synchronize the data. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a data synchronization system, a data synchronization method, and a portable information device for a portable information device that synchronizes data in the portable information device.

  In recent years, clock-type portable information devices that have a built-in schedule, address book, alarm information, etc. and are worn on the wrist have been sold. These portable information devices can also input, update, and delete data on individual electronic devices, but small portable information devices can be time consuming to input data and are stored on a personal computer (PC). Since consistency with data such as a table is required, data is usually received from a server such as a personal computer and information in the portable information device is updated.

However, the conventional data synchronization system requires a personal computer or the like as a server. For example, when a plurality of portable information devices are owned and data is synchronized between the portable information devices, the portable information in which the latest information is input. After performing the data synchronization work between the device and the server, the data synchronization work must be performed between the server and another portable information device.
By the way, a user who owns a plurality of wristwatch-type information devices having different designs may use the portable information device by exchanging it daily according to clothes. Conventionally, since the data synchronization work is troublesome, the synchronization work is not performed and there is a problem that the latest data cannot be referred to because a portable information device in which only old data is recorded is used.

For this reason, a system that performs data synchronization processing between portable information devices without using a server has been proposed (see Patent Document 1).
Patent Document 1 indicates that a user designates one of a plurality of portable information devices as a master device, designates another device as a slave device, and belongs to a group that performs data synchronization processing from the master device to each slave device. The certificate and the priority to be used when performing data synchronization processing are transmitted in advance and registered in each device. When data synchronization processing is performed, first, each device exchanges its own certificate data, and mutually confirms whether they belong to the same data synchronization group. Then, each data synchronization process is performed between devices belonging to the same data synchronization group. In this case, if a conflict occurs in data synchronization processing, that is, if multiple devices have data updated after the previous synchronization processing for a certain data field, the data of the device with the higher priority should be adopted. To resolve data conflicts.

JP 2001-147849 A

In Patent Document 1, it is necessary to set a master device in advance for each data synchronization group, register each slave device in each master, send a certificate and priority from the master device to the slave device, and register them. Prior preparation work is complicated.
In addition, when a master device is discarded or when a newly purchased information device is to be set as a new master device, a master takeover process for transferring the master right to another information device is required, which makes the work of changing the device configuration complicated. There was also a problem of being.
The priority is highest for the master device, and then the priority of each slave device is set in the order registered in the master device. For this reason, when the latest data is input to a portable information device with a low priority, a priority exchange process is required to increase the priority of the device, and the synchronization processing work becomes complicated. there were.

  It is an object of the present invention to easily perform preliminary preparation work, device configuration change work, and synchronization processing work, and to perform data synchronization processing between portable information devices even when there is no server machine or master machine. It is an object to provide a data synchronization system, a data synchronization method, and a portable information device for portable information devices that can easily execute the above.

  The present invention is a data synchronization system for a portable information device that performs data synchronization processing between a plurality of portable information devices, the portable information device having a wireless communication unit, a storage unit, a control unit, and a power source, In the storage unit, a user identification number that identifies a user who uses each portable information device, an individual number in which a different number is set for each portable information device in a plurality of portable information devices having the same user identification number, and synchronization Data to be processed and update information indicating the update time of the data are stored, and the control unit has the same user identification number within a range where wireless communication is possible by wireless communication via the wireless communication unit. If there is another portable information device having the same user identification number, update information of the portable information device and the storage information are stored in the storage unit. If the update information stored in the storage unit is older than the update information of another portable information device, the data stored in the storage unit is transferred from the other portable information device. It is characterized by updating the received data and synchronizing the data.

In the present invention, as a preliminary preparation, it is necessary to set a user identification number and an individual number for each portable information device, but the individual number is communicated with portable information devices having the same user identification number. Since different numbers can be automatically set, the user only needs to register the user identification number. For this reason, prior preparation work can be greatly reduced as compared to Patent Document 1 in which registration work of the master device and slave device and work for registering the certificate and priority from the master device to the slave device are required.
In addition, since there is no need to specify a master device or slave device, it is not necessary to change the device configuration. This makes it easy to process when some portable information devices are discarded or when new portable information devices are purchased. It can be carried out.
Furthermore, since the data synchronization process is determined based on the update information indicating the data update time, the priority exchange process as in Patent Document 1 can be made unnecessary, and the synchronization process work can be easily performed. .
In addition, since the data synchronization process can be executed based on the user identification number and update information of each portable information device, the data synchronization process can be executed without setting a special server machine or master machine, and the cost can be reduced.

  Here, one of the plurality of portable information devices is carried around every predetermined time and set to be in charge of data transmission, the other portable information device is set to be in charge of data reception, and the portable information device in charge of data transmission is A data profile having a user identification number, an individual number, and update information and not including the data is transmitted via the wireless communication unit, and the portable information device in charge of data reception receives the transmitted data profile, The update information in the portable information device in charge of data transmission included in the data profile is compared with the update information stored in the storage unit of the own device, and if the received update information is newer than the update information of the own device The mobile information device in charge of data transmission transmits a data transmission request signal for requesting transmission of data corresponding to the update information. When the data transmission request signal transmitted from is received, the requested data is transmitted. When the portable information device in charge of data reception receives the requested data from the portable information device in charge of data transmission, It is preferable to update the data and update information in the storage unit with the received data and update information to synchronize the data.

In such an invention, since each portable information device is in charge of data transmission around, each portable information device has newer information than its own when another portable information device is in charge of data transmission. In this case, it is possible to reliably synchronize with new data by making a data transmission request.
In addition, since each portable information device is in charge of data transmission around, the transmission processing that consumes power will be performed evenly between the portable information devices, and variation in power consumption for each portable information device can be reduced. . Therefore, it is possible to prevent only one portable information device from consuming significant power and shortening the battery life.
Furthermore, the portable information device in charge of each data transmission transmits a file having data only when there is a data transmission request, and usually only transmits a data profile having a small data capacity because it does not include data, Transmission and reception times can be shortened, and power can be saved.

  At this time, if the portable information device in charge of data transmission has a small power supply capacity or the power supply voltage drops below a predetermined voltage, it has a user identification number, an individual number and data and It is preferable to transmit a shortened data profile that does not include update information, or to stop transmission of the data profile and not perform data synchronization processing.

When a portable information device with a small power supply capacity or a portable information device with a reduced power supply voltage is in charge of data transmission, if a short data profile that does not include update information is transmitted, a data profile that includes update information is transmitted. Compared to the case, the transmission data capacity can be reduced, the transmission time can be shortened accordingly, power saving can be achieved, and the power supply life can be extended.
Similarly, if a portable information device with a small power supply capacity or a portable information device with a reduced power supply voltage is in charge of data transmission, if transmission of the data profile is canceled, transmission processing becomes unnecessary, thus saving power And can extend the life of the power supply.
Further, in any case, since update information is not transmitted to the portable information device in charge of data reception, no data transmission request is generated, and data synchronization processing for transmitting data is not performed, thereby further saving power. And the power supply life can be further extended.
If a mobile information device does not perform data synchronization processing when it is in charge of data transmission due to its small power supply capacity, it will not be able to input data on that mobile information device, and it will be input exclusively on other mobile information devices. What is necessary is just to utilize for the use which receives and browses the data which were performed.
In addition, a portable information device that does not perform data synchronization processing when the power supply voltage decreases and is in charge of data transmission can perform data synchronization processing when the power supply voltage exceeds a predetermined voltage. When data is input, the power supply voltage may be improved by charging or the like.

  In addition, one of the plurality of portable information devices is carried around every predetermined time and set to be in charge of data transmission, the other portable information device is set to be in charge of data reception, and the portable information device in charge of data transmission is A data file having a user identification number, an individual number, data, and update information is transmitted via the wireless communication unit, and the portable information device in charge of data reception receives the transmitted data file, and data included in the data file Compare the update information in the portable information device in charge of transmission with the update information stored in the storage unit of the device. If the received update information is newer than the update information of the device, it corresponds to the update information. The data and update information in the storage unit may be updated with the data to be updated and the update information to synchronize the data.

  In such an invention, the portable information device in charge of data reception can refer to the update information of the received data file, and if the update information is new, it can execute data synchronization processing using the received data. This eliminates the need for data transmission request processing and data transmission / reception processing according to the request.

In addition, the portable information device in charge of data reception, if the received update information is older than the update information of its own device, a data transmission charge change signal for changing the current portable information device in charge of data transmission to the data reception charge It is preferable to change to the person in charge of data transmission.
By performing such a data transmission charge changing process, update information can be transmitted quickly from a new portable information device, so that data synchronization in each portable information device can be executed in a short time.

Further, the predetermined time for carrying around one of the plurality of portable information devices and setting the person in charge of data transmission depends on the number of portable information devices having the same user identification number existing in a range where wireless communication is possible. It is preferably set.
Since the portable information device only needs to perform data synchronization while it is not in use, the data transmission staff of each portable information device needs to make a round within a certain amount of time (for example, within one hour). For example, in a case where the person in charge of data transmission makes a round in one hour, the sampling time may be 30 minutes if there are two portable information devices, and the sampling time may be 10 minutes if there are six portable information devices. If the predetermined time is set according to the number of portable information devices in this way, the predetermined time (sampling time) can be lengthened when the number is small, and power consumption can be reduced accordingly.

Further, the storage unit stores at least one of schedule data, alarm data, address book data, and memo pad data as data to be subjected to synchronization processing, and also stores data stored in the storage unit. It is preferable that update information for each type is stored.
If schedule data, alarm data, address book data, memo pad data, and the like can be stored as data, these pieces of information can be carried and convenience can be improved. Furthermore, if update information is stored for each data type, the portable information device in charge of receiving each data can determine whether data synchronization is necessary for each data type. Therefore, if a data transmission request can be made for each data type, the amount of data to be transmitted / received can be minimized, and power saving can be achieved accordingly.
Furthermore, a portable information device having only a part of information, such as a portable information device having only alarm data, can perform a data update operation only on data held by the device, and each device has it. Even if the data types are different, each device can be controlled using the same algorithm (program), and there is no need to perform special processing according to the data, so that variations of portable information devices can be easily increased.

  The present invention is a data synchronization method for a portable information device that performs data synchronization processing between a plurality of portable information devices, and the portable information device includes a wireless communication unit, a storage unit, a control unit, and a power source, In the storage unit, a user identification number that identifies a user who uses each portable information device, an individual number in which a different number is set for each portable information device in a plurality of portable information devices having the same user identification number, and synchronization Data to be processed and update information indicating the update time of the data are stored, and the portable information device has the same user identification number in a range where wireless communication is possible by wireless communication via the wireless communication unit If there is another portable information device having the same user identification number and the update information of the portable information device and the update stored in the storage unit And when the update information stored in the storage unit is older than the update information of another portable information device, the data stored in the storage unit is received from the other portable information device. And updating the data to synchronize the data.

Also in the present invention, as a preparatory work, it is necessary to set a user identification number and an individual number for each portable information device, but the individual number is between portable information devices having the same user identification number. By performing communication, different numbers can be automatically set, so that the user only has to register the user identification number. For this reason, prior preparation work can be greatly reduced as compared to Patent Document 1 in which registration work of the master device and slave device and work for registering the certificate and priority from the master device to the slave device are required.
In addition, since there is no need to specify a master device or slave device, it is not necessary to change the device configuration. This makes it easy to process when some portable information devices are discarded or when new portable information devices are purchased. It can be carried out.
Furthermore, since the data synchronization process is determined based on the update information indicating the data update time, the priority exchange process as in Patent Document 1 can be made unnecessary, and the synchronization process work can be easily performed. .
In addition, since the data synchronization process can be executed based on the user identification number and update information of each portable information device, the data synchronization process can be executed without setting a special server machine or master machine, and the cost can be reduced.

  The portable information device of the present invention is a portable information device that performs data synchronization processing with other portable information devices, and includes a wireless communication unit, a storage unit, a control unit, and a power source. A user identification number that identifies a user who uses each portable information device, an individual number in which a different number is set for each portable information device in a plurality of portable information devices having the same user identification number, and a target of synchronization processing And update information representing the update time of the data are stored, and the control unit has portable information having the same user identification number within a wireless communication range by wireless communication via the wireless communication unit. Check whether the device exists, and if there is another portable information device having the same user identification number, compare the update information of the portable information device with the update information stored in the storage unit Shi If the update information stored in the storage unit is older than the update information of another portable information device, the data stored in the storage unit is updated with the data received from the other portable information device, and the data is updated. It is characterized by being synchronized.

  If such a portable information device of the present invention is used, the same operational effects as the data synchronization system and the data synchronization method can be achieved when performing data synchronization.

  The portable information device is preferably configured so that data input or obtained from various PCs such as a desktop personal computer and a notebook personal computer can be downloaded from the PC and stored in the storage unit. . If the data can be downloaded from a PC or the like in this way, it is possible to input a large amount of information such as address book data on the PC and transfer it to each portable information device, improving input operability. it can.

  According to the present invention, preparatory work, equipment configuration change work, and synchronization processing work can be easily performed, and data synchronization processing can be performed between portable information devices even when there is no server machine or master machine. Can be executed easily.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[1. overall structure]
This embodiment demonstrates the case where a data synchronous process is performed between four portable information device AD.
As shown in FIG. 1, the portable information device A is a digital wristwatch having a PDA (information portable terminal) function, the portable information device B is an analog wristwatch, the portable information device C is a combination wristwatch having a digital display and a pointer, The portable information device D is a mobile phone. Each of the portable information devices A to D is configured to be able to record various information such as calendar information, schedule information, alarm information, address book information, and memo pad information. Further, the portable information devices A to D are configured to be able to communicate with each other as will be described later. For this reason, six data communication links between the respective portable information devices A to D are formed.

  Each portable information device A to D includes a system shown in FIG. That is, a system of portable information devices A to D includes a central processing unit (CPU) 11 that constitutes a control unit, an oscillation unit 12, a memory 13 that constitutes a storage unit, a display unit 14, a power source 15, and an antenna. 17 and a wireless communication unit 16 that transmits and receives information.

The central processing unit 11 is operated based on the incorporated program, and functions as a control unit that controls the operation of the portable information devices A to D. Specifically, the central processing unit 11 operates by a clock oscillation signal of the oscillation unit 12 and power supply from the power source 15 and executes and controls various operations by performing calculations using a predetermined program and data.
The oscillating unit 12 is configured by an oscillating circuit having a crystal resonator, and outputs a reference signal having a predetermined frequency, for example, 1 Hz, to the central processing unit 11.
The memory 13 is used for storing various information (data) and programs.

The display unit 14 includes a display unit such as a liquid crystal panel and a driver that drives the display unit, and can display characters, numbers, and the like in a dot matrix display.
However, the display unit 14 is not limited to a liquid crystal panel. For example, in the portable information device B composed of an analog wristwatch that does not include a liquid crystal panel, the display unit 14 is configured by each pointer and a motor that drives the pointer. In the display unit 14 including such a pointer, for example, information such as an alarm setting time can be displayed by pointing the dial with the pointer. However, the provision of a liquid crystal panel capable of displaying characters and the like is preferable in that other types of information such as address information can be displayed.

The power source 15 may be a primary battery such as a dry battery or a rechargeable secondary battery. In addition, as a charging device in the case of using a secondary battery, it is preferable to provide a charging coil and charge an electromagnetic wave supplied from the outside by an electromagnetic induction method using data communication and power supply. A cable (power cord) may be used for charging, or a rotating weight and a generator that generates electricity by rotation of the rotating weight without using a commercial power supply, or a solar cell may be used.
In addition, when charging by an electromagnetic induction method using a charging coil, it is preferable to prepare a dedicated cradle and perform charging by installing portable information devices A to D on the cradle. If a dedicated cradle is used, the charging coil and the coil on the power supply side can be set in an optimal positional relationship, and charging efficiency can be improved.
In addition, the cradle may be connected to a personal computer, and data and programs may be communicated between the PC and the portable information devices A to D by electromagnetic induction communication using the charging coil.

  The wireless communication unit 16 communicates with other portable information devices via the antenna 17. Note that the communication means and protocol used in the wireless communication unit 16 are not particularly limited. However, since the data synchronization process can be performed in a state where the portable information devices A to D are brought close to each other, power saving and downsizing are easy. Various short-range wireless communication means may be used. For example, a communication means such as Bluetooth or NFC (Near Field Communication) may be used. In short, each portable information device A to D is provided with a common communication means and protocol, and may be configured to be able to communicate (synchronize) the various information by wireless communication.

  In addition to the above configuration, each portable information device A to D may be provided with, for example, a buzzer that informs that the alarm time is reached, a vibration motor that informs by vibration, or the like. Furthermore, each portable information device A to D naturally includes a mechanism for realizing the original function of each device, for example, a mechanism for measuring and displaying the time on a clock, and a call mechanism for a mobile phone.

Each data as shown in FIG. 3 is stored in the memory 13.
The user ID is a user identification number that identifies a user who owns each portable information device A to D. In the present invention, data synchronization processing is performed between the portable information devices A to D having the same user ID. It is used as data for determining whether or not it is a target.
This user ID may be set immediately after device purchase. As a method for creating a user ID, for example, a number (ID) unique to each user is created through a key generator or the like based on name, keyword, time, and the like. The created user ID is written and stored in the memory 13 of each portable information device AD. Each user stores the same user ID in the portable information devices A to D used by the user.
The user ID recording method for each portable information device A to D may be written from a PC or the like via a cradle, or may be written via the wireless communication unit 16.

Note that creation and recording of the user ID may be performed by a PC or the like owned by the user, or may be performed at the sales floor when purchasing the portable information devices A to D.
Further, since it is necessary to rewrite the ID when an incorrect ID is written or when another user's portable information device is transferred, the user ID recorded in the memory 13 can be overwritten.
Furthermore, the user ID writing process is normally performed for each device via a cradle or the like, but a plurality of portable information devices A to D are placed within a certain range where wireless communication by the wireless communication unit 16 is possible. In addition, the user IDs of a plurality of portable information devices A to D may be rewritten simultaneously by radio.

  As the individual number, a different number is set between the portable information devices A to D having the same user ID, and is used to discriminate the portable information devices A to D. This individual number transmits a signal for confirming whether there is a portable information device capable of data communication nearby to a certain portable information device. ”, The receiving side may be set as“ 2 ”. After that, if a portable information device newly joined to this network (link) is recognized, the individual number of that device is set to “3”, and this process is repeated each time a new portable information device joins. Are set sequentially. In this way, different personal numbers are automatically set in the portable information devices A to D having the same user ID existing in a range where data communication is possible.

  The network configuration includes the total number of links (networks) between the portable information devices A to D, the individual number list of each device in a state where data communication is possible, and conversely, information that can grasp the unused individual numbers. It is recorded.

  In the power save state, information indicating whether each portable information device A to D is in the power save state is recorded. For example, “ON” data is recorded when in the power saving state, and “OFF” data is recorded when not in the power saving state. Note that the power save state in the present embodiment means a portable information device having a small capacity of the power supply 15 or a portable information device in a state where the voltage of the power supply 15 is lowered to a predetermined voltage or less. In short, it means a portable information device in a state where power saving is necessary in order to extend the power supply life.

  In the schedule data, various data related to the schedule are recorded. As alarm data, time data for issuing an alarm by a buzzer or vibration is recorded. In the address book data, various data relating to addresses are recorded. Arbitrary memo data is recorded in the memo pad data.

In addition, schedule update information, alarm update information, address book update information, and memo pad update information indicate the last update time of schedule data, alarm data, address book data, and memo pad data in each portable information device A to D. Information that can be compared between the devices A to D is recorded.
Specifically, when each portable information device A to D has clock information, the last update time information (date and time) of each information may be recorded in the memory 13 as each update information. A predetermined signal of the oscillation unit 12 may be counted from the time of the last update and the count value may be recorded in the memory 13. If the last update time information is recorded in the memory 13, the latest information can be specified by comparing the time information. If the count value is recorded in the memory 13, the count value corresponds to the elapsed time from the update time. Therefore, the latest information can be specified by specifying the smallest count value.
When the user updates the data through the PC or by directly inputting to the portable information devices A to D, the information is recorded in the update information together with the latest data.

  Since update information is recorded for each data type, each data can be synchronized individually. For example, when the latest schedule data is recorded in the portable information device A and the latest address book data is recorded in the portable information device D, the schedule data is recorded in the portable information device A in the portable information devices A to D. The address book data is updated with the data recorded in the portable information device D.

  Each data recorded in the portable information devices A to D can be created, added, modified, and deleted by each portable information device A to D. The data input using may be downloaded to each portable information device AD. In particular, portable information devices B and C, which are wristwatches, are small in size and difficult to set input keys, making it difficult to input characters and numbers. Therefore, it is more efficient to input using a portable information device or a PC that can input characters to some extent, such as a mobile phone. Note that the portable information device A having the PDA function can input alphabets and numbers using a rotating bezel, and enables character input with a relatively simple operation.

Moreover, in order to write the data input with PC to each portable information device AD, a cradle may be used as mentioned above, the wireless communication part 16 may be used, and wired cables, such as a USB cable, may be used. You may connect.
Although not shown, the memory 13 also records a transmission counter and a reception counter.

Wireless communication between the portable information devices A to D is performed via the wireless communication unit 16. The type of wireless communication is peer-to-peer type communication in which individual portable information devices A to D communicate directly, and ad hoc type communication in which devices within a certain range spontaneously form a network (link). It is supposed to do.
In each portable information device A to D, the user ID, the data type, the communication means, and the protocol are set so that the data can be synchronized between devices of different brands and types. It is configured.

[2. Data synchronization processing procedure]
(2-1. Processing flow of single machine)
First, processing when a portable information device exists alone will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS.
When the power is turned on, the central processing unit (control unit) 11 of each portable information device A to D first executes a processing flow of a single machine as shown in FIG.
When the process is started, the control unit 11 first initializes the transmission counter to a predetermined value (10 minutes in the present embodiment) (step 1, hereinafter, step is abbreviated as “S”). The transmission counter sets an interval for transmitting a signal in each of the portable information devices A to D.
Next, the control unit 11 operates the wireless communication unit 16 to open a reception channel at predetermined time intervals (every second in this embodiment) so that signals from other portable information devices A to D can be received. (S2). Note that the reception channel open duration may be about 1 ms.

The control unit 11 determines whether or not a single signal is received from the other portable information devices A to D having the same user ID during the reception channel opening process (S3). The single signal is a signal that is transmitted when communication with another portable information device is not possible.
When the control unit 11 does not receive a single signal in S3, the control unit 11 further determines whether or not link formation signals from other portable information devices A to D having the same user ID have been received (S4). The link formation signal is a signal transmitted to form a link when another portable information device is recognized.

When it is determined that the link formation signal has not been received in S4, the control unit 11 can determine that there are no portable information devices A to D having the same user ID to be exchanged in the surrounding area. The count value is decreased (S5). Specifically, the value of the transmission count is decreased by “1 second”.
Then, it is determined whether or not the transmission count has become “0” (S6). If the transmission count is not “0” in S6, the process returns to S2, and the processes in S2 to S6 are repeated. Therefore, every time the process of S5 is executed, the transmission count is decreased every second.

When the transmission count becomes “0” in S6, that is, when 10 minutes have elapsed after setting the transmission count in S1, the control unit 11 continues to transmit a transmission start signal for a predetermined time (for example, about 2 seconds) (S7). ). Thereafter, a single signal is transmitted (S8). The single signal includes data indicating a single state and user ID information of the portable information devices A to D, and the device that has received this information has the same user ID and is in a single state. It is comprised so that it can recognize that portable information device AD exists.
For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when portable information device A and portable information device B are each present as a single device, that is, when they are not arranged in an area where data communication is possible, each single device Each send a single signal. Here, since the transmission timing of the single signal is set by the timing at which the processing flow of the single device is started in each portable information device A, B, the transmission timing of the single signal is usually shifted from each other. Note that the timing of starting the processing flow of the single machine is the timing at which power is turned on in the portable information devices A and B, and the data synchronization network (link) when the portable information devices A and B are carried as will be described later. It is set at the timing of leaving.
After transmitting a single signal in S8, the control unit 11 returns to the process of S1, sets the transmission counter to 10 minutes, and repeats the processes after S2.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8, when two portable information devices A and B exist in the data communicable area, one portable information device A receives a single signal transmitted from the other portable information device B. Then, since determination of S3 becomes "Yes", the control part 11 of the portable information device A performs the link connection process of the single machines which establish the link for performing data synchronization with the portable information device B (S10). .

  FIG. 5 shows a processing flow for link connection between single machines. The portable information device A (control unit 11) that performs the link connection process between the single machines first sets the individual number to a predetermined value (S11). In this embodiment, “1” is set. Further, the portable information device A records the individual number of each portable information device A, B existing on the link in the network configuration of the memory 13 (S12). When a single machine is linked, the individual numbers are “1” and “2”.

Next, the portable information device A continuously transmits a transmission start signal for a predetermined time (for example, about 2 seconds) (S13). The transmission start signal notifies the mobile information device B on the receiving side that data transmission starts.
Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 9, the portable information device A transmits a link formation signal (S14). The link formation signal includes user ID and network configuration information.
Furthermore, the portable information device A sets the transmission counter to 1 minute (S15), and ends the processing flow in the single device. Next, the portable information device A executes the processing flow in charge of data transmission to be described later.

On the other hand, since the control unit 11 of the portable information device B that has received the link formation signal is executing the process flow of the single machine of FIG. 4, it is determined as “Yes” in S4, and the link join process S20 of the single machine is executed. Execute.
FIG. 6 shows a processing flow (S20) for link participation of a single machine. In S20, portable information device B (control unit 11) records the network configuration included in the received link formation signal, and determines that its own individual number is “2” from the information. It records in the individual number of the memory 13 (S21). Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 9, the individual number of the portable information device B that has received the link formation signal is set to “2”.

Next, the portable information device B sets the reception counter to 20 minutes (S22), and ends the processing flow in the single device. Then, the portable information device B next executes a processing flow for data reception, which will be described later.
Accordingly, when the link processing between the single machines is completed, as shown in FIG. 10, the data profile is transmitted from the portable information device A that is in charge of data transmission to the portable information device B that is in charge of data reception. Synchronous processing is executed.

In the above description, the case where a single machine establishes a link has been described. However, another portable information device D is arranged in a data communicable area where a plurality of portable information devices A to C are already linked. The same processing is performed also in the case of.
That is, as shown in FIG. 11, when a portable information device D that is a single device participates in a data synchronization network (link) composed of portable information devices A to C, as shown in FIG. A single signal is transmitted by the process of S8.
The data transmission person who received the single signal (portable information device A in FIG. 13) transmits a link formation signal as described later, and the individual number of the portable information device D is set to “4”. After that, as shown in FIG. 14, the data profile is transmitted from the portable information device A in charge of data transmission to each of the portable information devices B to D in charge of data reception as in the normal data synchronization processing, and the data synchronization processing described later Is executed.

(2-2. Processing flow for data transmission)
Next, a processing flow in the portable information devices A to D that are in charge of data transmission will be described with reference to FIGS. The person in charge of data transmission is responsible for carrying around one of a plurality of portable information devices A to D with a link capable of data communication.
As shown in FIG. 15, the portable information device (control unit 11) in charge of data transmission operates the wireless communication unit 16 to set the reception channel every predetermined time (for example, 1 second) for a predetermined time (for example, about 1 ms). It is continuously opened so that signals from other portable information devices A to D can be received (S31).
Next, it is determined whether or not a single signal has been received (S32). When a single signal is received, a transmission start signal is continuously transmitted for a predetermined time (about 2 seconds) (S33), and then a link formation signal is transmitted (S34). Therefore, since the single machine that has transmitted the single signal receives the link formation signal transmitted in S34, as described above, it executes the link participation process S20 and participates in the link as a data reception person.

The control part 11 judges whether the data transmission charge change signal was received, when a single signal was not received by S32 (S35).
When it is determined “No” in S35, the control unit 11 counts down the transmission counter (S36), and determines whether or not the transmission counter is “0” (S37).
When it is determined “No” in S37, the control unit 11 returns to S31 and repeats the processes of S31 to S37.

The transmission counter is set to 1 minute when the above-mentioned single machine is in charge of data transmission, or when it is in charge of data transmission by the data transmission person change process described later. If you are in charge of data transmission, it is set to 10 minutes. Then, when the processing flow in charge of data transmission is started and the set time (1 minute or 10 minutes) elapses, the transmission counter becomes “0”.
If the transmission counter becomes “0” and “Yes” is determined in S37, the portable information device in charge of data transmission continuously transmits a transmission start signal for a predetermined time (about 2 seconds) (S38).

  Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 16, the person in charge of data transmission refers to the memory 13 of the own device and determines whether or not the own device is in the power saving state (S39). The power saving state is turned “ON” when the capacity of the power supply 15 is small or when the voltage of the power supply 15 is lowered. However, in the data transmission mode described later, the power save state remains “off” even if the battery capacity or voltage is small.

If it is determined in S39 that the power saving state is not set (in the case of “No”), the data profile 101 is transmitted (S40).
As shown in FIG. 17, the data profile 101 includes a user ID, an individual number, a network configuration, a power save state, and each update information, and each data (schedule data, alarm data, address book data, memo pad data). The data is not provided.
The portable information device in charge of data transmission moves to a receiving operation after S40 (S41). Then, it is determined whether or not there is a reception (S42). If there is a reception, it is determined whether or not a data transmission request has been received (S43).

  When there is a data transmission request from the other portable information devices A to D, data for which a transmission request is made, for example, schedule data is transmitted (S44). As a result, the process as the person in charge of data transmission is completed. Therefore, after setting the reception counter to 20 minutes (S45), the process flow of the person in charge of data transmission is terminated. After the completion, the process in charge of data reception is executed.

  Also, when there is no reception at S42 or when there is no data transmission request at S43, after setting the reception counter to 20 minutes (S45), the processing flow for data transmission ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S39 that it is in the power saving state, the portable information devices A to D in charge of data transmission transmit the shortened data profile 102 (S46).
As shown in FIG. 18, the shortened data profile 102 is data including only a user ID, an individual number, and a power save state.
After transmission of the shortened data profile 102, the reception counter is set to 20 minutes (S45), and the processing flow in charge of data transmission ends. Therefore, in the power save state, the data transmission process (S44) is not executed, and only the shortened data profile 102 is transmitted, and the power consumption required for the process can be reduced.

  When the data transmission charge change signal is received in S35, the data transmission charge is changed to another portable information device A to D. Therefore, after the reception counter is set to 20 minutes (S45), the data transmission charge is set. The processing flow of is terminated.

(2-3. Processing flow for data reception)
Next, a processing flow in the control unit 11 of the portable information devices A to D that are in charge of data reception will be described with reference to FIGS. The person in charge of data reception is the person in charge of each portable information device other than the person in charge of data transmission among the plurality of portable information devices A to D provided with a link capable of data communication.
As shown in FIG. 19, the portable information device (control unit 11) in charge of data reception operates the wireless communication unit 16 and sets a reception channel every predetermined time (for example, 1 second) for a predetermined time (for example, about 1 ms). It is continuously opened so that signals from other portable information devices A to D can be received (S51).

  Next, the portable information device in charge of data reception determines whether a transmission start signal has been received from another portable information device (S52). If it is determined in S52 that the transmission start signal has been received, the data reception person receives only the data profile 101 (S53). If other data such as the data profile 102 is received, the data reception person discards the received data.

  Next, the portable information device in charge of data comparison compares each update information of the received data profile 101 with the update information recorded in its own memory 13 (S54). Then, it is determined whether or not the received update information of the data profile 101 matches the update information recorded in the memory 13 (S55). If the pieces of update information do not match, it is determined whether or not the update information in charge of data transmission, that is, the received update information of the data profile 101 is newer (S56).

If it is determined in S56 that the update information in charge of data transmission is new, the portable information device in charge of data transmission transmits a data transmission request signal (S57). When there is a data transmission request, the portable information device in charge of data transmission transmits the requested data in S44 described above.
The portable information device in charge of data reception receives the data transmitted from this data transmission person (S58). At this time, data transmitted from the portable information device in charge of data transmission is a user ID, an individual number, a network configuration, requested data, and update information thereof.
The portable information device in charge of data reception updates the corresponding data in the memory 13 with the received data (S59), and further updates the corresponding update information in the memory 13 with the received update information (S60).

(Next data transmission person confirmation process)
When the data synchronization process is completed in this way, the portable information device in charge of data execution executes the next data transmission person confirmation process S70 for confirming the next data transmission person.
Further, if the update information of the received data is the same as the update information stored in the memory 13 in S55, the data has the same data as the portable information device in charge of data transmission, and the data is synchronized. There is no need to execute the update process or the data transmission charge change process S80. Therefore, the next data transmission charge confirmation process S70 is immediately executed.

  In the next data transmission charge confirmation process S70, as shown in FIG. 20, the portable information device in charge of data reception next time judges whether or not its own device is in charge of data transmission (S71). This determination may be made by comparing the individual number included in the data profile 101 from the data transmission person received in S58 with the individual number of the own device. In this embodiment, since it is set to carry the data transmission staff in ascending order of the individual number, even if the individual number of the own device is the number next to the individual number of the transmission data, or even if it is not the next number If the individual number of each portable information device A to D existing in the link is the smallest number among the individual numbers larger than the individual number of the transmission data, it will be determined that the device is in charge of data transmission next time it can.

If “Yes” is determined in S71, the transmission counter is set to a predetermined time (in this embodiment, 10 minutes) (S72), and the data reception processing is terminated (S73). Next time, a process in charge of data transmission is executed.
On the other hand, if “No” is determined in S71, the reception counter is set to a predetermined time (20 minutes in the present embodiment) (S74), and the data reception processing is terminated (S75). In this case, the data reception processing is executed again next time.

(Data transmission change processing)
On the other hand, in the flow shown in FIG. 19, if “No” is determined in S56, the data of the own device is newer, and the data transmission person changing process for changing the own device to the data transmission person is executed. (S80).
In the data transmission charge changing process S80, the portable information terminal in charge of data reception recording the latest data first sets the data transmission mode (S81), and sets the transmission counter to 1 minute (S82). Next, a countdown process of the transmission counter is performed (S83), and it is determined whether the transmission counter has become “0”, that is, one minute has passed (S84).

If “Yes” is determined in S84, the portable information terminal in charge of data reception continuously transmits a transmission start signal for a predetermined time (about 2 seconds in this embodiment) (S85), and then the data transmission charge change signal. Is transmitted (S86). Next, the transmission counter is set to 1 minute (S87), and the data reception processing is terminated (S88). Then, next time, a process in charge of data transmission is executed, and the latest data is transmitted to another portable information device to perform the data synchronization process.
The portable information device in charge of data transmission that has received the data transmission charge change signal ends the data transmission charge processing and is changed to the data reception charge in accordance with the determination in S35 of the processing flow of FIG. 15, as described above. Will be.

(Data transmission person presence confirmation process)
In the processing flow shown in FIG. 19, if “No” is determined in S52, a data transmission person presence confirmation process is executed (S90).
In the data transmission person presence confirmation process S90, as shown in FIG. 22, the data reception person first counts down the reception count (S91), and determines whether or not the reception counter has become “0” (S92). If “No” is determined in S92, the process returns to S51 to repeat the above-described data reception processing.

On the other hand, if “Yes” is determined in S92, it is determined whether or not the person in charge of data transmission has left the link (S93). That is, when the reception counter becomes “0” in S92, it means that the transmission start signal is never received for the set time of the reception counter (in this embodiment, 20 minutes).
In this embodiment, since the data transmission staff transmits a transmission start signal 10 minutes after the start of the data transmission processing at the maximum, if the data transmission staff is within the range where data communication is possible, The portable information device in charge of reception should receive the transmission start signal before the reception count set to 20 minutes becomes zero.
Therefore, when the reception counter reaches 0 without receiving a transmission start signal (in the case of “Yes” in S92), the portable information device in charge of data transmission has left the network, or the own device has left the network. It will have left. Accordingly, if it is determined whether or not the person in charge of data transmission has left (S93), the current state of the own device can be grasped.

For example, the following method can be used to confirm whether the portable information device in charge of data transmission has left the network or whether the mobile device has left the network.
First, it is set so that the portable information device that is in charge of transmission after the current data transmission in charge performs communication for confirmation.
And if your device is in charge of sending confirmation communication, if you receive a reply to the confirmation, it is determined that your device is still on the network and that the mobile information device in charge of data transmission has left the network. If no reply is received, it may be determined that the aircraft has left.
In addition, when the other party is in charge of sending the confirmation communication, if the confirmation communication comes within a certain time (for example, within 5 minutes), the own machine remains on the network, and the portable information for the data transmission this time If it is determined that the device has left the network and the confirmation communication does not come within a certain time, it may be determined that the device has left.
In short, it is only necessary to determine whether there is another portable information device around the own device through communication to determine whether the own device remains on the network or has left.

  If “Yes” is determined in S93, the next data transmission charge confirmation process S70 may be executed. If “No” is determined in S93, the data reception process is terminated (S94), and the process of the single machine is executed next.

The data synchronization process associated with the above flow is summarized as follows.
As shown in FIG. 23, when a data synchronization network is configured by portable information devices A to D, first, a data profile is transmitted from portable information device A in charge of data transmission (S40). Here, if the update information of the respective portable information devices A to D coincides and it is not necessary to execute the data synchronization process (S59, S60) or the data transmission person change process (S80), the next data transmission person confirmation process (S70), the person in charge of data transmission is changed to the portable information device B.

  Since the transmission counter is set to 10 minutes at the time of this change, the data profile is transmitted from the portable information device B in charge of data transmission after about 10 minutes (S40). Again, if it is not necessary to execute the data synchronization process (S59, S60) or the data transmission person change process (S80), the data transmission person is changed to the portable information device C by the next data transmission person confirmation process (S70). The

  The portable information device C in charge of data transmission transmits the data profile after about 10 minutes. As shown in FIG. 25, when the portable information device C is in the power saving state, a shortened data profile is transmitted (S46), and the next data transmission charge confirmation process (S70) causes the data transmission charge to be assigned to the portable information device. Is changed to D.

  The portable information device D in charge of data transmission transmits a data profile after about 10 minutes (S40). Thereafter, by performing the same processing, each portable information device A to D participating in the data synchronization network is in charge of data transmission every 10 minutes, and performs transmission operations in order. For this reason, since the transmission operation with large power consumption is distributed and processed in each portable information device A to D, the bias of the power consumption for each device can be reduced.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, when the data profile is received from the portable information device A in charge of data transmission, if the update information is newer than the update information stored in the portable information device C. The portable information device C makes a data transmission request. For example, when the alarm update information received from the portable information device A is newer than the alarm update information stored in the memory 13 of the portable information device C, the portable information device C performs communication requesting transmission of alarm data. .
Then, the portable information device A in charge of data transmission transmits the requested alarm data and alarm update information as shown in FIG. Receiving this transmission data, portable information device C overwrites the alarm data and alarm update information in memory 13 with the received data, and synchronizes the data.
When the data synchronization processing is completed, as shown in FIG. 30, the data transmission person is changed to the portable information device B, and thereafter, the data transmission person carrying-in process is repeated.

On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, when a data profile is received from the portable information device A in charge of data transmission, the update information stored in another portable information device D is newer than the update information. The portable information device D transmits a data transmission charge change signal.
Since the portable information device D is in charge of data transmission, the data profile is transmitted from the portable information device D as shown in FIG.
Since the portable information device A has update information older than that of the portable information device D, the portable information device A makes a data transmission request, and the portable information device D transmits the requested data and update information correspondingly, and the portable information device A The memory 13 is updated with the received data. In addition, when the portable information devices B and C also have update information older than the portable information device D, the data transmission request signal is transmitted to update the data.
If different types of data update requests are generated, the update process may be performed sequentially.

  Further, when performing some transmission (data transmission request, etc.) in response to the received data, it is preferable to perform transmission processing at different intervals in each portable information device in order to avoid duplication of transmission. As a method of shifting the timing of transmission processing, for example, based on the individual number of each portable information device, if the individual number is “2”, it is transmitted 2 seconds after reception, and if it is “3”, it is transmitted 3 seconds later What is necessary is just to make it process.

The memory 13 of each portable information device only needs to store data necessary for each portable information device, and does not have to store the same type of data in all the portable information devices A to D. For example, the portable information device B, which is an analog quartz wristwatch, does not include the display unit 14 such as a liquid crystal panel for displaying the address book data and the memo pad data even if it has the address book data and memo pad data. Therefore, the portable information device B may store only the schedule data and the alarm data in the memory 13, and notify the user by a buzzer or alarm vibration at the time when the alarm time or schedule is set.
On the other hand, in portable information devices A, C, and D having a liquid crystal panel, address book data and memo pad data may be displayed on the liquid crystal panel.

  Furthermore, each portable information device A to D may not include a data input unit. For example, in the case of the same structure as a normal analog quartz wristwatch such as the portable information device B, it is difficult to input characters efficiently. In such a case, data input may be performed by another portable information device or PC, and the data may be downloaded and used.

[3. Effects of the embodiment]
According to the present embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.
(1) Each piece of data can be automatically synchronized by simply placing a plurality of portable information devices A to D in the data communicable area. Therefore, since data synchronization work can be easily performed, a user having a plurality of portable information devices A to D can always carry the latest information regardless of which portable information device A to D is carried, which is convenient. Rise.
In addition, since the user can freely select and wear a plurality of portable information devices A to D in which data such as a schedule is stored, the user can wear a portable information device suitable for clothes while maintaining the convenience of data reference. The user's taste can also be satisfied.

(2) In the present embodiment, individual numbers can be automatically set to different numbers by communicating with portable information devices A to D having the same user identification number. For this reason, as a user's preliminary preparation work, it is only necessary to register a user identification number in each portable information device A to D, and the preliminary preparation work can be greatly reduced.
In addition, since there is no need to specify a master device or slave device, it is not necessary to change the device configuration. When disposing some portable information devices, simply dispose of the portable information device. Since no special processing is required for the remaining portable information device, the device configuration can be easily changed.
Also, even when a new portable information device is purchased, it is only necessary to register the same user identification number on the portable information device and bring it close to another portable information device, so it is very easy to add a new portable information device. it can. Therefore, it is easy to perform data synchronization processing by joining a portable information device additionally purchased later to the link, and this system can be easily incorporated even in portable information devices of different manufacturers. For this reason, the user can select and use from various portable information devices, and can greatly increase variations of portable information devices.
Furthermore, since the data synchronization process is determined based on the update information indicating the data update time, the priority exchange process as in Patent Document 1 can be made unnecessary, and the synchronization process work can be easily performed. .

(3) Data synchronization can be performed between the portable information devices A to D even if there is no server PC or a master device set by the user. For this reason, the data synchronization operation is further simplified, the convenience can be further enhanced, and the cost can be reduced.

(4) Since the portable information devices A to D confirm the portable information device belonging to the link by transmitting a data profile or the like at regular intervals, they were carried when, for example, returning home By simply placing the portable information device D near a plurality of portable information devices A to C at home, the portable information device D can be automatically joined to the link.
Further, if the portable information device D is taken out when the user goes out, the other portable information devices A to C can automatically recognize that the portable information device D has left the link, and can automatically execute subsequent data synchronization processing. . Further, the portable information device D itself can recognize that it has left the link, and thereafter, it can automatically shift to the processing of a single device.
Therefore, when the portable information device is taken out or taken home, the user does not need to perform any special operation, and can simply be placed near another portable information device or carried, and the convenience can be improved in this respect.

(5) The portable information device in charge of data transmission first transmits a data profile that does not include actual data, and transmits actual data only when a data transmission request is received from the data reception staff. For this reason, update data with a large data capacity is transmitted only when there is a data transmission request, and when data synchronization processing is not required, only a data profile with a small data capacity needs to be transmitted. It can be shortened and power saving can be achieved.
In addition, even when there is a data transmission request, only the requested data, for example, alarm data is transmitted when alarm data is requested, so only the minimum necessary data is transmitted and received even during data synchronization processing. This also makes it possible to save power.

(6) Since the portable information device in the power saving state transmits the shortened data profile and does not execute the data synchronization processing, the power consumption can be extremely reduced. For this reason, even in a portable information device having a small battery capacity or a portable information device having a small remaining battery capacity, the battery life can be extended and the battery can be used for a long time.

(7) In the present embodiment, since each portable information device A to D is in charge of data transmission around, each portable information device is more than the own device when another portable information device is in charge of data transmission. It is possible to determine whether or not new information is included. In that case, it is possible to reliably synchronize with new data by making a data transmission request.
In addition, since each portable information device A to D is in charge of data transmission around, the transmission processing that consumes power is performed evenly between the portable information devices, and variation in power consumption for each portable information device. Can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to prevent only one portable information device from consuming significant power and shortening the battery life.

(8) When the received update information is older than the update information of the own device, the portable information device in charge of data reception is changed to the data transmission person by executing the data transmission person changing process S80. Update information can be transmitted quickly from a new portable information device, and data synchronization in each portable information device can be executed in a short time.

(9) Since update information is stored for each data type, the portable information device in charge of receiving each data can determine whether data synchronization is necessary for each data type. Therefore, if a data transmission request can be made for each data type, the amount of data to be transmitted / received can be minimized, and power saving can be achieved accordingly.
Furthermore, a portable information device having only a part of information, such as a portable information device having only alarm data, can perform a data update operation only on data held by the device, and each device has it. Even if the data types are different, each device can be controlled using the same algorithm (program), and there is no need to perform special processing according to the data, so that variations of portable information devices can be easily increased.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and modifications, improvements, and the like within the scope that can achieve the object of the present invention are included in the present invention.
For example, in the above embodiment, the portable information device in charge of data transmission transmits only the data profile at first, and transmits the recorded data only when data synchronization is necessary. You may send a file containing In this way, when the data reception person needs to update the data, a data transmission request is made, the data transmission person sends the data in response to the request, and the process of receiving the data by the data reception person is eliminated. Can do. However, the embodiment is preferable in that the transmission data capacity when data synchronization is unnecessary can be reduced, the average transmission data capacity can be reduced, and the power consumption can be reduced.

In the above-described embodiment, the person in charge of data transmission is carried around between a plurality of portable information devices. However, each portable information device may perform data transmission and reception independently. For example, each portable information device independently transmits a data profile, the portable information device that receives the data profile makes a data transmission request, and the portable information device that has received the data transmission request requests the requested data and update information. The portable information device that has received the data and the update information may update the data in the memory with the received data if it is newer than its own update information. At this time, by including the individual number of the portable information device in the data profile or data transmission request signal, each portable information device can be distinguished, and each portable information device processes only the data transmission request to its own device. it can.
In this case, if the transmission timings coincide between the portable information devices, data that cannot be received may be generated. Therefore, the transmission intervals may be varied among the portable information devices based on the individual number or the like.

  In the embodiment, the portable information device in charge of data transmission transmits a shortened data profile when the power supply capacity is small or when the power supply voltage is lowered and the power saving state is entered. Alternatively, control may be performed so that the frequency of transmitting the data profile is reduced, and the shortened data profile is not transmitted. In short, the power consumption of the portable information device in the power saving state can be reduced, and the power source life can be extended.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, data synchronization is automatically executed. However, for example, a forced synchronization function for forcibly executing data synchronization processing by performing a button operation in a portable information device is incorporated and used. A person may be synchronized at an arbitrary timing. If such a forced synchronization function is provided, data synchronization processing can be executed in response to a user's request, such as when urgent synchronization is desired, and convenience can be further enhanced.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, each portable information device is in charge of data transmission at intervals of about 10 minutes, but this sampling time is used for the number of portable information devices participating in the link, that is, data synchronization. It may be set according to the total number of links to be performed. Specifically, when the number of portable information devices, that is, the number of links is small, the sampling time may be increased to, for example, 20 minutes or 30 minutes. Thus, if the sampling time is lengthened, power saving can be achieved.

  Further, the sampling time may be set not by the number of portable information devices but by the presence / absence of a data transmission request. That is, when there is no data transmission request from the portable information device in charge of receiving each data, the sampling time may be lengthened sequentially. For example, data synchronization processing hardly occurs between portable information devices left by users at home. If the sampling time is lengthened in a state where such data synchronization processing is not required, further power saving can be achieved.

Furthermore, the data synchronization is necessary in normal use until the user inputs data at a place where he / she goes out, etc., and returns after going home. Therefore, by grasping the usage status of the user, the time from going out to returning home, where data synchronization is almost unnecessary, should be set to a very long sampling time or data synchronization processing should not be performed. A learning function for executing data synchronization processing before going out again may be provided.
As a learning function, for example, at the beginning of use, a normal sampling time such as an interval of 10 minutes is used, the time and day of the week when the data synchronization processing is performed are stored, and the day of the week and the time zone where the frequency of the data synchronization processing is high are learned. What should I do?

Moreover, in the said embodiment, although each portable information device was regularly in charge of data transmission, you may set so that it may be in charge of data transmission on other conditions. For example, each portable information device may be provided with a portable state detection unit that determines whether or not the portable information device is being carried, and may be set to be in charge of data transmission when the portable information device changes from being carried to a non-portable state. In this way, when the user returns the information device that was carried when going out to the house and removed it, the data profile can be transmitted to perform data synchronization processing with other portable information devices, The updated data can be quickly synchronized.
The portable state detection means may be any means that can detect that the portable information device is being carried. For example, an acceleration sensor is built in the portable information device, and the portable information device is moved from the state in which the portable information device is moved by the acceleration sensor. A device that detects a change from being carried to a placement state by grasping that it has been stationary for more than an hour can be used.

The data to be synchronized is not limited to that of the above embodiment, and may be set according to various portable information devices. For example, in a portable personal computer that can be connected to the Internet, a PDA, a mobile phone, and the like, various settings for information such as Internet connection and data such as information (for example, an e-mail address and a password) may be synchronized.
Further, information for identifying an individual such as an ID card may be stored, and the portable information device of the present invention may be used for various purposes such as authentication and entrance / exit keys.
In short, since the portable information device of the present invention can communicate with other devices by the wireless communication unit 16, it can exchange information with other devices and can be widely used for applications carried by users.

In the embodiment, when the update information stored in the portable information device in charge of data reception is newer than the update information transmitted from the data transmission person, the data transmission person change signal is transmitted and the data transmission person is immediately Although it has been changed, such processing does not have to be performed.
That is, when the transmitted update information is old, the portable information device in charge of data reception does not execute the data update process, so that the old information is not updated. In addition, since the data transmission person is set around, the data of the portable information device having the old update information is updated to a new one as each portable information device sequentially becomes the data transmission person. Therefore, even if the data transmission charge changing process is not performed, the data can be synchronized with each portable information device after a certain amount of time has elapsed. However, there is an advantage that data can be synchronized at an early stage by performing the data transmission charge changing process as in the embodiment.

Furthermore, in the embodiment, a computer including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory (storage device), and the like is provided in the portable information device, and a predetermined program and data (data stored in each storage unit) are stored in the computer. Although the control is executed by being incorporated, various controls may be executed by hardware such as various logic elements.
Here, the program and data may be stored in advance in a memory such as a RAM or a ROM of the portable information device. Further, for example, a predetermined control program or data may be installed in a memory of the portable information device via a communication means such as the Internet or a recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a memory card. In order to install a predetermined program or the like in the portable information device, a storage medium such as a memory card may be directly inserted into the portable information device, or may be installed from a PC or the like via a cradle. Furthermore, the program and the like may be supplied and installed wirelessly via the wireless communication unit 16.

  The portable information device of the present invention is not limited to an analog type or digital type wristwatch or mobile phone. That is, the portable information device may use a non-contact IC card, a personal computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a camera, or the like. Furthermore, a portable information device may be incorporated in glasses or clothes and used for wearable computer applications.

Schematic which shows the portable information device which concerns on embodiment of this invention. The block diagram which shows the internal structure of a portable information device. The figure which shows the data structure memorize | stored in memory. The flowchart explaining the processing method in case a portable information device is a single machine. The flowchart explaining the link connection processing method of single machines in the flowchart of FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining a link participation processing method for a single machine in the flowchart of FIG. 4. The figure explaining the link connection process of single machines. The figure explaining the state which has transmitted the single signal in the link connection process of single machines. The figure explaining the state which has transmitted the link formation signal in the link connection process of single machines. The figure explaining the state which is transmitting the data profile after the link connection process of single machines. The figure explaining the link participation process of a single machine. The figure explaining the state which has transmitted the single signal in the link participation process of a single machine. The figure explaining the state which has transmitted the link formation signal in the link participation process of a single machine. The figure explaining the state which is transmitting the data profile after the link participation process of a single machine. The flowchart explaining the processing method in the portable information device in charge of data transmission. The flowchart explaining the continuation of the flowchart of FIG. The figure explaining the data structure of a data profile. The figure explaining the data structure of an abbreviated data profile. The flowchart explaining the processing method in the portable information device in charge of data reception. 20 is a flowchart for explaining a next data transmission charge confirmation processing method in the flowchart of FIG. 19. 20 is a flowchart for explaining a data transmission person change processing method in the flowchart of FIG. 19. The flowchart explaining the data transmission person presence confirmation processing method in the flowchart of FIG. The figure explaining the process in case portable information equipment A is a data transmission charge. The figure explaining the process in case the portable information device B is in charge of data transmission. The figure explaining the process in case the portable information device C is in charge of data transmission. The figure explaining the process in case the portable information device D is a data transmission charge. The figure explaining the state in which the portable information device A is transmitting the data profile. The figure explaining the state in which the portable information device C is transmitting the data transmission request signal. The figure explaining the state in which the portable information device A is transmitting data and update information. The figure explaining the state in which the portable information device B is transmitting the data profile. The figure explaining the state in which the portable information device A is transmitting the data profile. The figure explaining the state in which the portable information device D is transmitting the data transmission charge change signal. The figure explaining the state in which the portable information device D is in charge of data transmission and is transmitting the data profile. The figure explaining the state in which the data synchronization process is performed between the portable information devices A and D.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 ... Central processing part (control part), 12 ... Oscillation part, 13 ... Memory, 14 ... Display part, 15 ... Power supply, 16 ... Wireless communication part, 17 ... Antenna, 101 ... Data profile, 102 ... Short data profile, A ~ D ... Portable information device.

Claims (9)

A data synchronization system for a portable information device that performs data synchronization processing between a plurality of portable information devices,
The portable information device has a wireless communication unit, a storage unit, a control unit, and a power source,
In the storage unit, a user identification number that identifies a user who uses each portable information device, an individual number in which a different number is set for each portable information device in a plurality of portable information devices having the same user identification number, The data to be synchronized and the update information indicating the update time of this data are stored,
The control unit confirms whether there is a portable information device having the same user identification number in a range where wireless communication is possible by wireless communication via the wireless communication unit,
If there is another portable information device having the same user identification number, the update information of the portable information device is compared with the update information stored in the storage unit,
If the update information stored in the storage unit is older than the update information of another portable information device, the data stored in the storage unit is updated with the data received from the other portable information device, and the data is updated. A data synchronization system for portable information equipment, characterized by synchronization. The data synchronization system of the portable information device according to claim 1,
One of the plurality of portable information devices is set to be in charge of data transmission around every predetermined time, the other portable information device is set to be in charge of data reception,
The portable information device in charge of data transmission transmits a data profile having a user identification number, an individual number, update information and not including the data via the wireless communication unit,
The portable information device in charge of data reception receives the transmitted data profile, and compares the update information in the portable information device in charge of data transmission included in the data profile with the update information stored in the storage unit of the own device If the received update information is newer than the own update information, a data transmission request signal for requesting transmission of data corresponding to the update information is transmitted,
When the portable information device in charge of data transmission receives the data transmission request signal transmitted from the portable information device in charge of data reception, it transmits the requested data,
When the portable information device in charge of data reception receives the requested data from the portable information device in charge of data transmission, the data and update information in the storage unit are updated with the received data and update information to synchronize the data. A data synchronization system for portable information devices. In the data synchronization system of the portable information device according to claim 2,
When the portable information device in charge of data transmission has a small power supply capacity or when the power supply voltage drops below a predetermined voltage, it has a user identification number and an individual number via the wireless communication unit, and the data and update information are A data synchronization system for a portable information device, characterized in that a shortened data profile not included is transmitted or transmission of the data profile is stopped and data synchronization processing is not performed. The data synchronization system of the portable information device according to claim 1,
One of the plurality of portable information devices is set to be in charge of data transmission around every predetermined time, the other portable information device is set to be in charge of data reception,
The portable information device in charge of data transmission transmits a data file having a user identification number, an individual number, data, and update information via the wireless communication unit,
The portable information device in charge of data reception receives the transmitted data file, and compares the update information in the portable information device in charge of data transmission included in the data file with the update information stored in the storage unit of the own device When the received update information is newer than the own update information, the data and update information in the storage unit are updated with the data and update information corresponding to the update information, and the data is synchronized. Data synchronization system for portable information devices. In the data synchronization system of the portable information device according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
If the received update information is older than the update information of its own device, the portable information device in charge of data transmission sends a data transmission charge change signal to change the current portable information device in charge of data transmission to the data reception charge And a data synchronization system for a portable information device, wherein the device is changed to a person in charge of data transmission. In the data synchronization system of the portable information device according to any one of claims 2 to 5,
The predetermined time for carrying around one of the plurality of portable information devices and setting the person in charge of data transmission is set according to the number of portable information devices having the same user identification number existing in a range where wireless communication is possible. A data synchronization system for portable information equipment. In the data synchronization system of the portable information device according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The storage unit stores at least one of schedule data, alarm data, address book data, and memo pad data as data to be synchronized, and for each type of data stored in the storage unit A data synchronization system for portable information equipment, characterized in that update information is stored. A data synchronization method of a portable information device that performs data synchronization processing between a plurality of portable information devices,
The portable information device has a wireless communication unit, a storage unit, a control unit, and a power source,
In the storage unit, a user identification number that identifies a user who uses each portable information device, an individual number in which a different number is set for each portable information device in a plurality of portable information devices having the same user identification number, The data to be synchronized and the update information indicating the update time of this data are stored,
A step of confirming whether there is a portable information device having the same user identification number in a range where wireless communication is possible by wireless communication via the wireless communication unit;
If there is another portable information device having the same user identification number, the step of comparing the update information of the portable information device and the update information stored in the storage unit,
If the update information stored in the storage unit is older than the update information of another portable information device, the data stored in the storage unit is updated with the data received from the other portable information device, and the data is updated. A data synchronization method for a portable information device. A portable information device that performs data synchronization processing with other portable information devices,
A wireless communication unit, a storage unit, a control unit and a power source;
In the storage unit, a user identification number that identifies a user who uses each portable information device, an individual number in which a different number is set for each portable information device in a plurality of portable information devices having the same user identification number, The data to be synchronized and the update information indicating the update time of this data are stored,
The control unit confirms whether there is a portable information device having the same user identification number in a range where wireless communication is possible by wireless communication via the wireless communication unit,
If there is another portable information device having the same user identification number, the update information of the portable information device is compared with the update information stored in the storage unit,
If the update information stored in the storage unit is older than the update information of another portable information device, the data stored in the storage unit is updated with the data received from the other portable information device, and the data is updated. A portable information device characterized by being synchronized.

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