JP2008226137A - File management method and file management system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow a user to more easily access to a file in a file management method and a file management system virtually organizing a single directory tree based on a plurality of directory trees. <P>SOLUTION: A detection means (a CPU 141 or the like) detects a plurality of HDD 2 connected to a PC 1, the detection means (the CPU 141 or the like) reads the directory tree from each of the detected plurality of HDD 2. A creating means (the CPU 141 or the like) retrieves the same name folder in the same hierarchy from the highest order hierarchy in order in the directory tree, takes the same name folders in the retrieved same hierarchy as one folder, and creates a virtual directory tree by repeating the operation of writing a folder of a lower order hierarchy corresponding to the folder in the folder concerned. A management means (the CPU 141 or the like) manages access to a file based on the virtual directory tree. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a file management method and a file management system for connecting a plurality of recording media having different directory tree structures to an electronic device and virtually constructing a single directory tree.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a file management method and a file management apparatus have been disclosed that can virtually construct one directory tree based on a plurality of directory trees and facilitate user access to files.

For example, in Patent Document 1, a plurality of directory trees are overlapped like a layer to configure a virtual directory, and a plurality of directory trees are viewed as a single directory from an application and a file is updated. A file management apparatus and file management method that enables logical overwriting by writing to an update layer, prepares a file to be overwritten in another directory in advance, and deploys it to the top layer of the virtual directory. It is disclosed. According to this, it is possible to acquire a snapshot at a certain point in the past and hold a master file, and it is possible to atomically add a plurality of files simultaneously.
Further, for example, Patent Document 2 discloses a directory tree structure of an installed network storage even when a new network storage is added in a situation where the installed network storage is operated without using the virtual unification function. A virtual unification method is disclosed that can extend the capacity while inheriting.
Further, for example, in Patent Document 3, when the capacity of a recording medium is insufficient when storing a new file or editing a file, the same path as the directory on the original recording medium is placed under the root directory on the new recording medium. A file management apparatus and a file management method for adding subdirectories and storing files therein are disclosed. According to this, it is possible to increase the storage capacity by adding a recording medium without changing the tree structure of the directory seen by the user.
JP 2006-268456 A JP 2004-046661 A JP 2002-244901 A

  By the way, the same name folder with a common file name may exist in a plurality of recording media integrated into the virtual directory tree. However, the above Patent Documents 1 to 3 do not describe any handling of the folder with the same name at the time of creating the virtual directory tree. If the same name folder exists in a plurality of recording media, the constructed virtual directory A folder with the same name exists in the tree. Therefore, when the same name folder exists in a plurality of recording media to be integrated into the virtual directory tree, the file management techniques of Patent Documents 1 to 3 make the virtual directory tree viewed from the user complicated and desired. There was a problem that could not easily access the file.

  An object of the present invention is to make it easier for a user to access a file in a file management method and file management system that virtually constructs a single directory tree based on a plurality of directory trees.

In order to solve the above problems, the invention according to claim 1 is a file management system for managing files by connecting a plurality of recording devices having different directory trees with different root directories to an electronic device.
The plurality of recording devices includes one master hard disk drive and one or more external hard disk drives,
Detecting means for detecting the plurality of recording devices connected to the electronic device;
Reading means for reading out the directory tree from each of the plurality of recording devices detected by the detecting means;
In the directory tree read by the reading means, the same name folder in the same hierarchy is searched in order from the highest hierarchy, and the searched same name folder in the same hierarchy is set as one folder, and the folder is stored in the folder. Creating means for creating a virtual directory tree by repeating the operation of writing a lower-level folder associated with
Storage control means for storing the virtual directory tree created by the creating means in the master hard disk drive;
Management means for managing access to files stored in the plurality of recording devices based on the virtual directory tree stored in the master hard disk drive;
Connection detection means for detecting that a new recording device is connected to the electronic device;
When the connection detecting unit detects that the new recording device is connected, a directory tree of the new recording device is created by the creating unit based on a key operation in the key operation unit. Selection means for allowing the user to select whether to integrate into the virtual directory tree;
A discriminating unit for discriminating whether or not the new recording device is formatted when the selection unit selects to integrate the directory tree of the new recording device into the virtual directory tree;
When the determination unit determines that the new recording device is formatted, the file system of the new recording device is determined, and the file system of the new recording device is a file in the virtual directory tree. A determination means for determining whether or not the system is the same;
If the determination unit determines that the file system of the new recording device is not the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree, it is not possible to integrate the directory tree of the new recording device into the virtual directory tree. An informing means for informing that it is possible;
With
The creating means includes
It is executed when the determination unit determines that the file system of the new recording device is the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree.

The invention described in claim 2 is a file management system for managing a file by connecting a plurality of recording media having a directory tree with different root directories to an electronic device.
Detecting means for detecting the plurality of recording media connected to the electronic device;
Reading means for reading out the directory tree from each of the plurality of recording media detected by the detecting means;
In the directory tree read by the reading means, the same name folder in the same hierarchy is searched in order from the highest hierarchy, and the searched same name folder in the same hierarchy is set as one folder, and the folder is stored in the folder. Creating means for creating a virtual directory tree by repeating the operation of writing a lower-level folder associated with
Management means for managing access to files stored in the plurality of recording media based on the virtual directory tree created by the creation means;
It is characterized by providing.

A third aspect of the present invention provides the file management system according to the second aspect, wherein a connection detection means for detecting that a new recording medium is connected to the electronic device,
When the connection detection unit detects that the new recording medium is connected, a directory tree of the new recording medium is created by the creation unit based on a key operation in the key operation unit. Selecting means for allowing the user to select whether to integrate into the virtual directory tree,
The creating means includes
This is executed when the selection means selects that the directory tree of the new recording medium is integrated into the virtual directory tree.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the file management system according to the third aspect, when the selection unit selects to integrate the directory tree of the new recording medium into the virtual directory tree, the new Determining means for determining whether or not the recording medium is formatted;
When the determination unit determines that the new recording medium has been formatted, the file system of the new recording medium is determined, and the file system of the new recording medium is a file in the virtual directory tree. A determination means for determining whether or not the system is the same;
If the determination unit determines that the file system of the new recording medium is not the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree, it is not possible to integrate the directory tree of the new recording medium into the virtual directory tree. An informing means for informing that it is possible;
It is characterized by providing.

The invention according to claim 5 is a file management method for managing a file by connecting a plurality of recording media having directory trees with different root directories to an electronic device.
Detecting the plurality of recording media connected to the electronic device;
Next, the directory tree is read from each of the detected recording media,
Next, in order from the top layer, the same name folder in the same layer is searched from the read directory tree, and the searched same name folder in the same layer is set as one folder, and the folder is associated with the folder. Create a virtual directory tree by repeating the operation of writing the lower level folder,
Next, access to the files stored in the plurality of recording media is managed based on the created virtual directory tree.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the plurality of recording devices are constituted by one master hard disk drive and one or a plurality of external hard disk drives, and the plurality of recording devices connected to the electronic device by the detecting means are provided. The directory tree is read from each of the plurality of recording devices detected and detected by the reading unit by the reading unit, and the directory tree read by the reading unit by the creating unit is the same in order from the highest hierarchy. The folder with the same name in the hierarchy is searched, the folder with the same name in the searched same hierarchy is made one folder, and the operation of writing the folder of the lower hierarchy associated with the folder in the folder is repeated, and the virtual directory tree Created by the storage control means and created by the creation means. Irekutoritsuri are stored in the master hard disk drive, by the management unit, based on the virtual directory tree stored on the master hard disk drive, access to the files stored in a plurality of recording devices are managed.
Therefore, even when a folder with the same name exists in the same hierarchy in the directory tree of a plurality of recording devices, the folder with the same name in the virtual directory tree is integrated into one folder. It is possible to provide a file management system that can be easily accessed by the user without complicating the tree structure.
In addition, when the connection detection unit detects that a new recording device is connected to the electronic device, and the selection unit detects that the new recording device is connected by the connection detection unit, the key is displayed. Based on the key operation in the operation unit, the user selects whether or not to merge the directory tree of the new recording device into the virtual directory tree created by the creation unit, and the discrimination unit creates a new recording by the selection unit. When it is selected that the directory tree of the device is integrated into the virtual directory tree, it is determined whether or not the new recording device has been formatted, and the determining device has already formatted the new recording device. The file system of the new recording device is determined, and the file of the new recording device is determined. Is determined to be the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree, and the notification means determines that the file system of the new recording device is not the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree. In this case, it is notified that it is impossible to integrate the directory tree of the new recording device into the virtual directory tree, and the creation unit determines that the file system of the new recording device is the file system of the virtual directory tree. It is executed when it is determined that they are the same.
Therefore, even after the virtual directory tree is created, the directory tree of the new recording device can be integrated into the virtual directory tree with a simple operation, and the directory tree of the new recording device cannot be integrated into the virtual directory tree. In this case, the user can surely grasp that fact.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the detection unit detects a plurality of recording media connected to the electronic device, and the reading unit detects a directory tree from each of the plurality of recording media detected by the detection unit. The same name folder in the same hierarchy is searched in order from the highest hierarchy in the directory tree read out and read out by the creation means by the creation means, and the same name folder in the searched same hierarchy is regarded as one folder. The virtual directory tree is created by repeating the operation of writing the lower-level folder associated with the folder in the folder, and a plurality of records are created by the management unit based on the virtual directory tree created by the creation unit. Access to files stored on the medium is managed.
Therefore, even when a folder with the same name exists in the same hierarchy in a directory tree of a plurality of recording media, the folder with the same name in the virtual directory tree is integrated into one folder. It is possible to provide a file management system that can be easily accessed by the user without complicating the tree structure.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to obtain the same effect as the second aspect of the invention, and that a new recording medium is connected to the electronic device by the connection detecting means. When the selection means detects that the new recording medium is connected by the connection detecting means, the directory tree of the new recording medium is created based on the key operation in the key operation unit. The user selects whether or not to integrate into the virtual directory tree created by the above, and the creation means is executed when the selection means selects to integrate the directory tree of the new recording medium into the virtual directory tree. .
Therefore, even after the virtual directory tree is created, the directory tree of the new recording medium can be integrated into the virtual directory tree with a simple operation.

According to the invention described in claim 4, the same effect as that of the invention described in claim 3 can be obtained. The directory tree of the new recording medium is converted into the virtual directory tree by the selecting means by the determining means. If it is selected that the new recording medium has been formatted, it is determined whether or not the new recording medium has been formatted, and when the determining means determines that the new recording medium has been formatted, The file system of the new recording medium is determined, and it is determined whether or not the file system of the new recording medium is the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree. If it is determined that the file system is not the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree, the new recording medium That Rekutoritsuri it is impossible to be integrated in the virtual directory tree is notified.
Therefore, when the directory tree of the new recording medium cannot be integrated into the virtual directory tree, the user can surely grasp that fact.

In the invention according to claim 5, a plurality of recording media connected to the electronic device are detected, then a directory tree is read from each of the detected recording media, and then sequentially from the highest hierarchy. A folder with the same name in the same hierarchy is searched from the read directory tree, and the folder with the same name in the searched same hierarchy is regarded as one folder, and a folder in a lower hierarchy associated with the folder in the folder. Is repeated to create a virtual directory tree, and then, based on the created virtual directory tree, access to files stored in a plurality of recording media is managed.
Therefore, even when a folder with the same name exists in the same hierarchy in a directory tree of a plurality of recording media, the folder with the same name in the virtual directory tree is integrated into one folder. It is possible to provide a file management method that can be easily accessed by the user without complicating the directory tree structure.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
In the present embodiment, a mode in which the file management system of the present invention is applied to a personal computer (PC) system will be described.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a file management system 100 in the present embodiment.
In the file management system 100 of this embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of recording devices (recording media) are connected to a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as “PC”) 1 as an electronic device. The recording device is, for example, a hard disk drive (hereinafter referred to as “HDD”) 2 that reads / writes data from / to a magnetic disk.
Specifically, the PC 1 includes, for example, one master hard disk drive (hereinafter referred to as “master HDD”) 21 and one or a plurality of (for example, one in this embodiment) removable external devices. A hard disk drive (hereinafter referred to as “external HDD”) 22 is connected, and each of the master HDD 21 and the external HDD 22 stores a file group having a directory tree structure with different root directories.
The master HDD 21 may be built in the casing of the PC 1 or may be externally attached to the casing of the PC 1 with a hard disk case or the like. Further, the number of external HDDs 22 is not limited and may be two or more. Further, the types of the master HDD 21 and the external HDD 22 may not be distinguished.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the main configuration of the file management system 100 in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2, the PC 1 includes a key operation unit 11 for a user to input various instructions, a display unit 12 for displaying various display data, a master HDD 21 and an external HDD 22. And an I / F unit 13 that transmits and receives data between the devices, and a control unit 14 that performs overall control of the entire PC 1.

  The key operation unit 11 includes a keyboard having a cursor key, numeric keys, various function keys, a mouse, and the like, and outputs an input operation signal based on a key pressed on the keyboard and the mouse to the control unit 14.

  The display unit 12 includes a display (not shown) such as an LCD (Liquid Display Panel), and displays various display data on the display according to control by the CPU 141.

The I / F unit 13 is an interface that adopts, for example, the ATA (AT Attachment) standard, and transmits and receives various types of information between the master HDD 21 and the external HDD 22 connected to the PC 1.
Specifically, the I / F unit 13 transmits / receives file management information 211 and 221 described below, various files, and the like from the HDD 2 connected to the PC 1 under the control of the control unit 14, for example.

  The control unit 14 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 141, a memory unit 142, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 143, and the like.

  The CPU 141 executes various programs stored in the ROM 143 in accordance with input signals input from each unit of the PC 1, input operation signals input by pressing various keys in the key operation unit 11, and the like. Based on such a program, the overall operation of the file management system 100 is comprehensively controlled by outputting an output signal to each part of the PC 1.

  The memory unit 142 includes, for example, a work area 1421 formed of a volatile memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), and processing results generated when various programs are executed by the CPU 141, input data, and the like. Store in work area 1421.

  The memory unit 142 includes a data area 1422 made of a nonvolatile memory such as an EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM). The data area 1422 includes, for example, a connection information management table 1422a and an area management table 1422b.

  The connection information management table 1422a is information for managing the HDD 2 connected to the PC 1, for example. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the connection information management table 1422a includes, for each HDD 2 connected to the PC 1, a device ID, type information indicating whether the HDD is a master HDD or an external HDD, Member registration information and the like indicating whether or not the HDD 2 is integrated into the virtual directory tree are stored in association with each other.

  The area management table 1422b stores, for example, a recorded area, an unrecorded area, a free capacity, and the like in each HDD 2 connected to the PC 1, and this area is recorded when new data is recorded in any HDD 2. The management table 1422b is referred to, and the recording destination HDD 2 and the recording destination address are determined.

  The ROM 143 has a program storage area composed of, for example, a nonvolatile memory. Specifically, the ROM 143 includes a detection program 143a, a read program 143b, a creation program 143c, a storage control program 143d, a management program 143e, a connection detection program 143f, A selection program 143g, a determination program 143h, a determination program 143i, a notification program 143j, and the like are stored.

The detection program 143a is a program for causing the CPU 141 to realize a function of detecting a plurality of HDDs 2 connected to the PC 1, for example.
Specifically, the CPU 141 starts virtual directory tree creation processing at a predetermined timing such as when an instruction to create a virtual directory tree is given by a key operation in the key operation unit 11.
When the CPU 141 starts the virtual directory tree creation process, first, the I / F unit 13 detects the HDD 2 connected to the PC 1 and acquires the device ID, type information, and the like of the detected HDD 2. 4, the virtual directory tree setting screen is displayed on the display of the display unit 12. On the virtual directory setting screen, it is possible to select whether or not to integrate each of the connected HDDs 2 (for example, the master HDD 21 and the external HDD 22) connected to the PC 1 into the virtual directory tree. 11, when the user selects integration / non-integration by the key operation, the CPU 141 stores the ID information of the HDD 2 and the master for each of the HDDs 2 recognized as being connected to the PC 1 in the connection information management table 1422a. Type information indicating whether the HDD is an HDD or an external HDD and member registration information indicating whether the HDD 2 is integrated into the virtual directory tree are registered.
The CPU 141 functions as a detection unit by executing the detection program 143a.

The read program 143b is a program for causing the CPU 141 to realize a function of reading a directory tree from each of the plurality of HDDs 2 detected by the execution of the detection program 143a, for example.
Specifically, when the HDD 2 connected to the PC 1 is detected in the execution of the detection program 143a and the HDD 2 to be integrated into the virtual directory tree is selected by the user, the CPU 141 selects the HDD 2 ( For example, the file management information 211 and 221 as a directory tree recorded in the HDD 2 is read from each of the master HDD 21 and the external HDD 22).
The CPU 141 functions as a reading unit by executing the reading program 143b.

Here, the files stored in the master HDD 21 and the external HDD 22 and their hierarchical structure will be described with reference to FIGS.
5A shows the file management information 211 stored in the master HDD 21, and FIG. 5B shows the file management information 221 stored in the external HDD 22. 6A shows a hierarchical structure of files stored in the master HDD 21, and FIG. 6B shows a hierarchical structure of files stored in the external HDD 22.

The file management information 211 and 221 stored in each HDD 21 and 22 stores information related to each file stored in the HDD 21 and 22 and information related to the directory tree that is the data structure of the file.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the file management information 211, 221 includes, for each file stored in the HDD 2, a file name, a head logical block address of the area where the file is stored on the magnetic disk, a file A size, a path indicating a file storage location (absolute path), a file creation date and time, a file update date and time, and the like are stored in association with each other.
The path indicates the position of each file in the directory tree of the HDD 2. In the following description, the path is referred to as “real path” in order to distinguish it from a virtual path described later. The actual path is expressed in the form of “root directory / folder name /.. ./File name”. For example, in order to access the file “file 101” stored in the master HDD 21, “C: (root directory) → “fold.a → fold.d → file101” is traced.

For example, the creation program 143c searches the directory tree read out by the execution of the read program 143b by the CPU 141 for the same name folder in the same hierarchy in order from the highest hierarchy, and searches for the same name in the searched same hierarchy. This is a program for realizing a function of creating a virtual directory tree by repeating the operation of sequentially writing a folder in a lower hierarchy associated with the folder into the folder.
Specifically, when the CPU 141 reads out file management information 211 and 221 for managing a file group having a directory tree structure from each of the HDDs 2 (for example, the master HDD 21 and the external HDD 22) connected to the PC 1, the CPU 141 reads the file management information 211 and 221 from each HDD 2. Based on the actual path of each file stored in the read file management information 211 and 221, a file in each hierarchy of each directory tree is scanned to construct a virtual directory tree. Further, the CPU 141 determines a virtual path indicating the position of each file in the constructed virtual directory tree, and creates virtual directory tree information 212 based on the determined virtual path of each file, thereby creating a virtual directory tree. .

Here, a specific example of a process for integrating a plurality of directory trees in the execution of the creation program 143c will be described with reference to FIGS.
7 shows a virtual directory tree based on the directory tree of the master HDD 21 shown in FIGS. 5 (a) and 6 (a) and the directory tree of the external HDD 22 shown in FIGS. 5 (b) and 6 (b). It is a figure which illustrates the virtual directory tree information 212 produced when a creation process is performed. 8 is based on the directory tree of the master HDD 21 shown in FIGS. 5 (a) and 6 (a) and the directory tree of the external HDD 22 shown in FIGS. 5 (a) and 6 (b). It is a figure which illustrates the hierarchical structure of the virtual directory tree created when a directory tree creation process is performed.

Specifically, when the directory tree of the master HDD 21 and the directory tree of the external HDD 22 illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6 are integrated to create a virtual directory tree, the CPU 141 firstly has the root directory of the master HDD 21 (that is, For example, “C:”) is determined as the root directory of the virtual directory tree.
Next, scan the hierarchy immediately below the root directory in each directory tree (note that the hierarchy immediately below the root directory is the “highest hierarchy” or “first hierarchy” and the root directory is “the 0th hierarchy”), In the first hierarchy of a plurality of directory trees, the same name folder having the same folder name is searched. When folders with the same name exist in the first hierarchy of a plurality of directory trees, the CPU 141 integrates these folders with the same name into one folder in the first hierarchy of the virtual directory tree, and other than the folder with the same name. Each of the folders is a folder in the first hierarchy of the virtual directory tree.

  For example, “fold.a”, “fold.b”, and “fold.c” exist in the first hierarchy of the directory tree of the master HDD 21, and “fold.a”, “fold.c” exist in the first hierarchy of the directory tree of the external HDD 22. When “c” and “fold.d” exist, the CPU 141 replaces “fold.a” and “fold.c” that exist in common in the first hierarchy of each directory tree with each of the virtual directory tree. Each folder of “fold.d” existing only in the first hierarchy of the master HDD 21 and “fold.d” existing only in the first hierarchy of the external HDD 22 is set as one folder in the first hierarchy. A folder in the first hierarchy of the tree.

When the folder of the first hierarchy of the virtual directory tree is determined, the CPU 141 then selects a folder that is not the lowest hierarchy among folders existing in the first hierarchy of the virtual directory tree (ie, “fold.a”, “fold”). .C ”and“ fold.d ”, a folder in which no folder exists in the lower hierarchy) is searched in one folder.
Specifically, the CPU 141 searches for one of the unsearched folders that is not the lowest hierarchy in the first hierarchy and searches for a hierarchy (the first hierarchy) lower in the folder being searched in a plurality of directory trees. The next lower layer of the first layer is set as the “second layer”), and a folder having the same name with the same folder name is searched. That is, the CPU 141 refers to the directory tree in which the folder being searched actually exists, and scans the second hierarchy in the folder being searched in those directory trees. When the folder being searched exists in a plurality of directory trees, and the same name folder having the same folder name exists in the second hierarchy in the folder being searched in the plurality of directory trees, the CPU 141 determines the same name. The folders are integrated into one folder to be a second-level folder in the folder being searched in the virtual directory tree, and each folder other than the same-name folder is set to the second hierarchy in the folder being searched in the virtual directory tree. Folder.

  For example, when searching for “fold.a” in the first hierarchy of the virtual directory tree, the CPU 141 searches the directory tree of the master HDD 21 and the directory tree of the external HDD 22 in which “fold.a” exists in the first hierarchy. Referring to each, the second hierarchy that is one level lower than “fold.a” existing in the first hierarchy of each directory tree is scanned, and is common to the directory tree of the master HDD 21 and the directory tree of the external HDD 22. Search for a folder with the same name. “Fold.d” and “fold.f” exist in the second hierarchy in “fold.a” of the directory tree of the master HDD 21, and in the second hierarchy in “fold.a” of the directory tree of the external HDD 22. When “fold.f” exists, the CPU 141 replaces “fold.f” existing in the second hierarchy in “fold.a” of each directory tree with “fold.f” of the virtual directory tree. “fold.d” existing only in the second hierarchy of the master HDD 21 as a folder in the second hierarchy in “fold.a” of the virtual directory tree. .

  The CPU 141 repeats the above processing in the order from the upper layer to the lower layer until the search in the folder in the lowest layer is completed, and when the search in the folder in the lowest layer is completed, Returning to the hierarchy, the process is repeated, and this process is repeated until the search of all hierarchies in each directory tree is completed. That is, the CPU 141 scans in order from one side in each directory tree (for example, from left to right).

When the CPU 141 completes scanning of all layers in each directory tree and one virtual directory tree is constructed by the above processing, the CPU 141 determines a virtual path indicating the position of each file in the constructed virtual directory tree. . The virtual path indicates the position of the file in the virtually constructed virtual directory tree, unlike the actual path that indicates the actual position of the file in the directory tree of the HDD 2.
When the virtual path of each file is determined, the CPU 141 stores them in the virtual directory tree information 212.
For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the virtual directory tree information 212 includes a file name, a virtual path of the determined file, and an HDD 2 storing the file in each of the files in the plurality of directory trees integrated into the virtual directory tree. A device ID for identifying the file, an actual path indicating the actual position of the file, a head logical block address where the file is stored on the magnetic disk, a file size, and the like are stored.
The CPU 141 functions as a creation unit by executing the creation program 143c.

The storage control program 143d is a program for causing the CPU 141 to realize a function of storing the virtual directory tree created by executing the creation program 143c in the master HDD 21, for example.
Specifically, when executing the creation program 143c, the CPU 141 constructs a virtual directory tree and creates virtual directory tree information 212 that stores the file name, virtual path, real path, and the like of each file in the virtual directory tree. The created virtual directory tree information 212 is stored in the master HDD 21 connected to the PC 1 via the I / F unit 13.
The CPU 141 functions as a storage control unit by executing the storage control program 143d.

The management program 143 e is a program for causing the CPU 141 to realize a function of managing access to files stored in the plurality of HDDs 2 based on the virtual directory tree stored in the master HDD 21, for example.
When a display request for file information relating to a file integrated in the virtual directory tree is made by a key operation in the key operation unit 11, the CPU 141 reads out the virtual directory tree information 212 stored in the master HDD 21, and reads out the read virtual directory tree Based on the information 212, file information is displayed on the display unit 12.
Further, when a read request is made for one of the files integrated in the virtual directory tree by a key operation in the key operation unit 11, the CPU 141 displays the virtual directory tree information 212 stored in the master HDD 21. From the read and read virtual directory tree information 212, the identification ID and actual path of the HDD 2 in which the file requested to be read is stored are acquired, and the file requested to be read based on the acquired identification ID and actual path Is accessed, the file is read and displayed on the display unit 12.
Further, when a delete request or a change request is made for one file among the files integrated in the virtual directory tree by a key operation in the key operation unit 11, the CPU 141 stores the virtual directory stored in the master HDD 21. The tree information 212 is read, and from the read virtual directory tree information 212, the identification ID and real path of the HDD 2 storing the file for which the deletion / change request is made are acquired, and based on the acquired identification ID and real path, The HDD 2 in which the file for which the deletion / change request has been made is actually stored is accessed to perform deletion or change. Further, when the file is deleted / changed, the CPU 141 updates the file management information (for example, 211, 221) of the HDD 2 in which the file is actually stored and adapts to this. As described above, the virtual directory tree information 212 stored in the master HDD 21 is updated.
The CPU 141 functions as a management unit by executing the management program 143e.

In the execution of the management program 143e described above, the files stored in the plurality of HDDs 2 are displayed in a single virtual directory tree structure.
That is, when a user accesses a file, folders that are actually distributed and stored in the plurality of HDDs 21 and 22 appear to the user to be integrated into one directory tree. Then, for example, when the user wants to read the file “file19-1110” stored in the external HDD 22, if the user makes an access request to “file19-1110” in the single virtual directory tree, the user Even if it is not recognized in which HDD 2 the actual data is stored, based on the actual path “E: /fold.a/fold.f/fold.19-1110” of the file, The file is read from the external HDD 22 that actually stores the file, and the file can be easily accessed.
In addition, even if a folder with the same name exists in the same hierarchy, since the folder with the same name is integrated into one folder in the virtual directory tree, the structure of the virtual directory tree viewed from the user becomes complicated. And more easily access the file. That is, for example, “fold.d” and “fold.f” exist in the second hierarchy in “fold.a” of the directory tree of the master HDD 21, and “fold.a” in the directory tree of the external HDD 22 exists. Even if “fold.f” exists in the second hierarchy, the user is notified that “fold.f” and “fold.f” are displayed in the second hierarchy in “fold.a” of the first hierarchy of the virtual directory tree. Only two folders “d” appear to exist, and the tree structure is easy to see for the user.

The connection detection program 143f is a program for causing the CPU 141 to realize a function of detecting that a new HDD 2 is connected to the PC 1, for example.
The CPU 141 functions as a connection detection unit by executing the connection detection program 143f.

For example, when the selection program 143g detects that the new HDD 2 is connected to the CPU 141 by executing the above-described connection detection program 143f, the selection program 143g is based on the key operation in the key operation unit 11, for example. This is a program for realizing the function of allowing the user to select whether or not to integrate the directory tree into the virtual directory tree created by executing the creation program 143c.
Specifically, when the CPU 141 detects that a new HDD 2 is connected to the PC 1, the CPU 141 reads data for a new HDD setting screen stored in a predetermined area such as the memory unit 142 and the like on the display unit 12. Display on the display.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a new HDD setting screen displayed on the display of the display unit 12. As shown in FIG. 9, on the new HDD setting screen, whether or not to integrate the directory tree structure file stored in the new HDD 2 connected to the PC 1 into the virtual directory tree created by executing the creation program 143c. Let the user select
The CPU 141 functions as a selection unit by executing the selection program 143g.

For example, when the CPU 141 selects that the directory tree of the new HDD 2 is to be integrated into the virtual directory tree by executing the selection program 143g, the determination program 143h determines whether or not the new HDD 2 has been formatted. This is a program for realizing a function for discriminating between.
Specifically, when the user selects to integrate the directory tree in the new HDD 2 into the virtual directory tree on the new HDD setting screen displayed on the display unit 12 in the execution of the selection program 143g described above, the CPU 141. Determines whether or not the new HDD 2 has been formatted. If the new HDD 2 has not been formatted, the HDD 2 is subjected to a formatting process for writing initialization data.
The CPU 141 functions as a determination unit by executing the determination program 143h.

For example, when the CPU 141 determines that the new HDD 2 has been formatted by executing the determination program 143h, the determination program 143i determines the file system of the new HDD 2, and determines the new HDD 2's file system. This is a program for realizing the function of determining whether or not the file system is the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree.
Specifically, when the CPU 141 determines that the new HDD 2 has been formatted in the execution of the determination program 143h, or the CPU 141 determines that the new HDD 2 has not been formatted, the CPU 141 performs the formatting process. The file system of the new HDD 2 (for example, Windows (registered trademark) FAT (File Allocation System), NTFS (NT File System), etc.) is determined to be the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree, Determine whether it can be integrated into a virtual directory tree. If the CPU 141 determines that the file system of the new HDD 2 is different from the file system of the virtual directory tree, and if these file systems are not compatible, the CPU 141 changes the directory tree of the new HDD 2 to the virtual directory tree. Judge that it cannot be integrated into the directory tree.
The CPU 141 functions as a determination unit by executing the determination program 143i.

For example, when the CPU 141 determines that the file system of the new HDD 2 is not the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree by executing the above-described determination program 143 i, the notification program 143 j displays the directory tree of the new HDD 2. This is a program for realizing a function of notifying that it is impossible to integrate the virtual directory tree.
Specifically, the file system of the new HDD 2 is not the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree, the file systems are not compatible with each other, and the directory tree of the new HDD 2 cannot be integrated into the virtual directory tree. When the determination is made, the CPU 141 reads the data for the notification screen stored in a predetermined area such as the memory unit 142, and places the new HDD 2 directory tree on the display of the display unit 12 as shown in FIG. A notification screen indicating that it cannot be integrated is displayed to notify the user.
The CPU 141 functions as a notification unit by executing the notification program 143j.

  Further, the CPU 141 identifies, for the new HDD 2 connected to the PC 1, identification ID, type information indicating whether the HDD is a master HDD or an external HDD, and member registration information indicating whether to integrate the virtual HDD into the virtual directory tree. Are stored in the connection information management table 1422a stored in the data area 1422.

  Further, the execution of the above-described determination program 143i indicates that the file system of the new HDD 2 is the same as or compatible with the file system of the virtual directory tree by executing the above-described determination program 143i. If it is determined that they can be integrated, the creation program 143c described above is executed. That is, the CPU 141 reads the file management information for managing the file of the directory tree structure from the new HDD 2, and based on the read file management information, the directory tree of the new HDD 2 is stored in the virtual directory tree stored in the master HDD 21. Perform the integration process.

Next, a virtual directory tree creation process for virtually constructing a single directory tree based on a plurality of directory trees will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
First, in step S1, the CPU 141 determines whether or not there is an input for instructing creation of a virtual directory tree by a key operation or the like in the key operation unit 11, and determines that there is an input for instructing creation of a virtual directory tree. Then (step S1; Yes), the virtual directory tree creation process is started. In step S2, the CPU 141 detects the HDD 2 connected to the PC 1. In step S3, the virtual directory tree setting screen is displayed on the display of the display unit 12, and the virtual directory tree for each HDD 2 connected to the PC 1 is displayed. Let the user select whether to integrate with. In step S4, the CPU 141 stores, in the connection information management table 1422a, the HDD 2 ID information and type information indicating whether the HDD 2 is a master HDD or an external HDD for each HDD 2 detected as being connected to the PC 1. And member registration information indicating whether or not the HDD 2 is integrated into the virtual directory tree.

Next, in step S5, the CPU 141 reads out file management information (for example, 211, 221) as a directory tree from each of the HDDs 2 selected to be integrated into the virtual directory tree among the HDDs 2 connected to the PC 1. When the directory tree is read from each HDD 2, the CPU 141 first sets the root directory of the master HDD 21 as the root directory of the virtual directory tree in step S6. Further, in step S7, the CPU 141 sets N to 1, and in step S8, in the (N-1) th hierarchy of each directory tree read from each HDD 2, it is not the lowest hierarchy and has not been searched (or (( N-1) If the hierarchy is the root directory, the Nth hierarchy existing under one of the folders of the search incomplete) is searched.
In step S <b> 9, the CPU 141 determines whether or not a folder with the same name exists in common in a plurality of directory trees in the Nth hierarchy in the folder being searched in the (N−1) th hierarchy. If the CPU 141 determines that a folder with the same name exists in the Nth layer in the folder being searched (step S9; Yes), in step S10, the folder having the same name is set as one folder, and each folder in the Nth layer being searched is displayed. A folder in the Nth layer in the virtual directory tree. If the CPU 141 determines that there is no folder with the same name in the Nth hierarchy in the folder being searched (step S9; No), the Nth hierarchy in the folder being searched in the plurality of directory trees in step S11. Are the folders of the Nth hierarchy in the virtual directory tree.

Further, in step S12, the CPU 141 determines whether or not there is an unsearched folder that is not the lowest layer in the Nth layer in the folder being searched. If the CPU 141 determines in step S12 that there is an unsearched folder that is not the lowest hierarchy in the N-th hierarchy being searched (step S12; Yes), the CPU 141 increments N in step S13, and proceeds to step S8. Return and repeat the above process. On the other hand, if the CPU 141 determines in step S12 that there is no unsearched folder that is not the lowest hierarchy in the Nth hierarchy in the folder being searched (step S12; No), the process proceeds to step S14.
Here, for example, a case where a virtual directory tree is created based on the directory tree of FIG. 6A and the directory tree of FIG. 6B will be described as an example.
For example, if N = 1, in step S12, the folder that is not the lowest hierarchy in “fold.a”, “fold.b”, “fold.c”, and “fold.d” existing in the first hierarchy (that is, , “Fold.a”, “fold.c”, and “fold.d”), at the stage where scanning of all the folders has not been completed, there is an unsearched folder that is not the lowest hierarchy (step S12). ; Yes).
On the other hand, among folders “fold.a”, “fold.b”, “fold.c”, and “fold.d” in the first hierarchy, folders that are not the lowest hierarchy (that is, “fold.a”, “fold.c”, “fold”). .D ”) has already been searched, it is determined that there is no unsearched folder that is not at the lowest level (step S12; No).

  In step S14, the CPU 141 decrements N. In step S15, the CPU 141 determines whether N = 0 (that is, the root directory). If the CPU 141 determines that N = 0 is not satisfied in step S15 (step S15; No), the CPU 141 returns to step S12 and repeats the above processing. On the other hand, if the CPU 141 determines that N = 0 is satisfied in step S15 (step S15; Yes) Assuming that the creation of the virtual directory tree is completed, the virtual path of each file is determined and the virtual directory tree information 212 is created. In step S16, the created virtual directory tree information 212 is stored in the master HDD 21. This process ends.

Next, processing executed when a new HDD 2 is connected to the PC 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
First, in step S21, the CPU 141 determines whether or not a new HDD 2 is connected to the PC 1, and determines that the new HDD 2 is connected (step S21; Yes). In step S22, the key operation unit 11 by the user is displayed. Based on the key operation, it is determined whether to integrate the new HDD 2 into the virtual directory tree. If the CPU 141 determines in step S22 that the new HDD 2 is not integrated into the virtual directory tree (step S22; No), the CPU 141 proceeds to step S29, and determines that the new HDD 2 is integrated into the virtual directory tree (step S22; Yes). In subsequent step S23, it is determined whether or not the new HDD 2 has been formatted. If the CPU 141 determines in step S23 that the new HDD 2 has not been formatted (step S23; Yes), in step S24, the CPU 141 performs a format process for writing initialization data to the new HDD 2, while the new HDD 2 has been formatted. If it judges (step S23; Yes), it will progress to step S25.

In step S25, the CPU 141 determines whether the file system of the new HDD 2 is a file system that can be integrated into the virtual directory tree. If the CPU 141 determines in step S25 that the file system of the new HDD 2 is different from the file system of the virtual directory tree and cannot be compatible with the file system of the virtual directory tree, it cannot be integrated into the virtual directory tree ( In step S25; No), in step S26, the display unit 12 is notified that the directory tree of the new HDD 2 cannot be integrated into the virtual directory tree, and the process proceeds to step S29. On the other hand, in step S25, when the file system of the new HDD 2 is the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree or when the file system is compatible with the file system of the new directory tree, the CPU 141 If it is determined that the file system can be integrated into the directory tree (step S25; Yes), in step S27, it is determined whether data such as a folder / file is stored in the new HDD 2. If the CPU 141 determines in step S27 that data is stored in the new HDD 2 (step S27; Yes), the folder / file stored in the HDD 2 is stored in the master HDD 21 in step S28. The virtual directory tree 212 is updated by updating the virtual directory tree information 212, and the process proceeds to step S29.
In step S29, the CPU 141 stores in the connection information management table 1422a stored in the data area 1422 of the memory unit 142, the identification ID of the new HDD 2, the type information indicating whether it is a master HDD or an external HDD, virtual Member registration information or the like indicating whether or not the HDD 2 is integrated in the directory tree is registered, the connection information management table 1422a is updated, and this processing is terminated.

According to the file management system 100 in the present embodiment described above, a plurality of HDDs 2 connected to the PC 1 are detected by the execution of the detection program 143a by the CPU 141, and detected by the execution of the detection program 143a by the execution of the read program 143b. A directory tree is read from each of the plurality of HDDs 2, and by executing the creation program 143 c, in the directory tree read by execution of the read program 143 b, folders with the same name in the same hierarchy are sequentially arranged from the highest hierarchy. The folder having the same name in the same hierarchy searched is made one folder, and a virtual directory tree is created and stored by repeating the operation of writing a folder in a lower hierarchy associated with the folder in the folder. By executing the control program 143d, the virtual directory tree created by executing the creation program 143c is stored in the master HDD 21, and by executing the management program 143e, the virtual directory tree is stored in the plurality of HDDs 2 based on the virtual directory tree stored in the master HDD 21. Access to stored files is managed.
Therefore, even when a folder with the same name exists in the same hierarchy in a directory tree of a plurality of HDDs 2, the folder with the same name is integrated into one folder in the virtual directory tree. A file management system 100 that can be easily accessed by a user without complicating the structure can be provided.

In addition, it is detected that the new HDD 2 is connected to the PC 1 by executing the connection detection program 143f by the CPU 141, and the new HDD 2 is connected by executing the connection detection program 143f by executing the selection program 143g. Is detected based on the key operation in the key operation unit 11, the user selects whether or not to merge the directory tree of the new HDD 2 into the virtual directory tree created by executing the creation program 143c, When the directory program of the new HDD 2 is selected to be integrated into the virtual directory tree by executing the selection program 143g by the execution of the determination program 143h, it is determined whether or not the new HDD 2 has been formatted. 143i fruit Thus, when it is determined that the new HDD 2 has been formatted by executing the determination program 143h, the file system of the new HDD 2 is determined, and the file system of the new HDD 2 is determined as the file system of the virtual directory tree. If the file system of the new HDD 2 is determined not to be the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree by execution of the notification program 143j and execution of the determination program 143i. It is notified that it is impossible to integrate the directory tree of HDD2 into the virtual directory tree, and execution of the judgment program 143i determines that the file system of the new HDD2 is the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree. If it is, creating program 143c is executed.
Therefore, even after the virtual directory tree is created, the new HDD 2 directory tree can be integrated into the virtual directory tree with a simple operation, and the new HDD 2 directory tree cannot be integrated into the virtual directory tree. Therefore, the user can surely grasp that fact.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various improvements and design changes may be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

For example, the recording medium and the recording device are not limited to hard disks and hard disk drives, but are optical disks such as DVD-RAM and CD-RW, magneto-optical disks (MO), FD (Floppy (registered trademark) Disks). ) Etc., or a memory card such as a PC card.
In addition, a program (for example, the creation program 143c) for realizing the file management system 100 of the present invention may be provided on the HDD 2 side instead of the PC 1.
Further, the created virtual directory tree does not necessarily have to be stored in the master HDD 21, and may be stored in the PC 1 or another HDD 2. Further, the storage location may be selected by the user.
Further, the method for storing the virtual directory tree is not limited to the method exemplified in the above embodiment.

It is a figure which shows the whole structure of the file management system in this embodiment. It is a block diagram which illustrates the principal part structure of the file management system in this embodiment. It is an example of a connection information management table. It is an example of the virtual directory setting screen displayed on the display of a display part. FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating file management information stored in the master HDD, and FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating file management information stored in the external HDD. FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating the hierarchical structure of files stored in the master HDD, and FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating the hierarchical structure of files stored in the external HDD. . Based on the directory tree of the master HDD in FIGS. 5A and 6A and the directory tree of the external HDD in FIGS. 5B and 6B, a virtual directory tree creation process has been performed. It is a figure which illustrates the virtual directory tree information produced in the case. Based on the directory tree of the master HDD in FIGS. 5 (a) and 6 (a) and the directory tree of the file on the external HDD in FIGS. 5 (a) and 6 (b), a virtual directory tree creation process is performed. It is a figure which illustrates the hierarchical structure of the virtual directory tree produced in the case of being broken. It is a figure which illustrates the new HDD setting screen displayed on the display of a display part. It is a figure which illustrates the alerting | reporting screen to the effect that it is impossible to integrate the directory tree of the new HDD displayed on the display of a display part with a virtual directory tree. It is a flowchart which shows a virtual directory tree creation process. 6 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed when a new HDD is connected to a PC.

Explanation of symbols

100 File management system 1 Personal computer (electronic equipment)
2 Hard disk drive (recording medium, recording device)
21 Master hard disk drive 11 Key operation unit 141 CPU (detection means, reading means, creation means, recording control means, management means, connection detection means, selection means, determination means, determination means, notification means)
143a Detection program (detection means)
143b Reading program (reading means)
143c Creation program (creation means)
143d Storage control program (recording control means)
143e management program (management means)
143f Connection detection program (connection detection means)
143g Selection program (selection means)
143h Discrimination program (discrimination means)
143i Judgment program (judgment means)
143j Notification program (notification means)

Claims (5)

In a file management system for managing a file by connecting a plurality of recording devices having directory trees with different root directories to an electronic device,
The plurality of recording devices are composed of one master hard disk drive and one or more external hard disk drives,
Detecting means for detecting the plurality of recording devices connected to the electronic device;
Reading means for reading out the directory tree from each of the plurality of recording devices detected by the detecting means;
In the directory tree read by the reading means, the same name folder in the same hierarchy is searched in order from the highest hierarchy, and the searched same name folder in the same hierarchy is set as one folder, and the folder is stored in the folder. Creating means for creating a virtual directory tree by repeating the operation of writing a lower-level folder associated with
Storage control means for storing the virtual directory tree created by the creating means in the master hard disk drive;
Management means for managing access to files stored in the plurality of recording devices based on the virtual directory tree stored in the master hard disk drive;
Connection detection means for detecting that a new recording device is connected to the electronic device;
When the connection detecting unit detects that the new recording device is connected, a directory tree of the new recording device is created by the creating unit based on a key operation in the key operation unit. Selection means for allowing the user to select whether to integrate into the virtual directory tree;
A discriminating unit for discriminating whether or not the new recording device is formatted when the selection unit selects to integrate the directory tree of the new recording device into the virtual directory tree;
When the determination unit determines that the new recording device is formatted, the file system of the new recording device is determined, and the file system of the new recording device is a file in the virtual directory tree. A determination means for determining whether or not the system is the same;
If the determination unit determines that the file system of the new recording device is not the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree, it is not possible to integrate the directory tree of the new recording device into the virtual directory tree. An informing means for informing that it is possible;
With
The creating means includes
The file management system is executed when the determination unit determines that the file system of the new recording device is the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree. In a file management system for managing a file by connecting a plurality of recording media having different directory trees with different root directories to an electronic device,
Detecting means for detecting the plurality of recording media connected to the electronic device;
Reading means for reading out the directory tree from each of the plurality of recording media detected by the detecting means;
In the directory tree read by the reading means, the same name folder in the same hierarchy is searched in order from the highest hierarchy, and the searched same name folder in the same hierarchy is set as one folder, and the folder is stored in the folder. Creating means for creating a virtual directory tree by repeating the operation of writing a lower-level folder associated with
Management means for managing access to files stored in the plurality of recording media based on the virtual directory tree created by the creation means;
A file management system comprising: Connection detection means for detecting that a new recording medium is connected to the electronic device;
When the connection detection unit detects that the new recording medium is connected, a directory tree of the new recording medium is created by the creation unit based on a key operation in the key operation unit. Selecting means for allowing the user to select whether to integrate into the virtual directory tree,
The creating means includes
3. The file management system according to claim 2, wherein the file management system is executed when the selection unit selects that the directory tree of the new recording medium is integrated into the virtual directory tree. A discriminating unit for discriminating whether or not the new recording medium has been formatted when the selection unit selects to integrate the directory tree of the new recording medium into the virtual directory tree;
When the determination unit determines that the new recording medium has been formatted, the file system of the new recording medium is determined, and the file system of the new recording medium is a file in the virtual directory tree. A determination means for determining whether or not the system is the same;
If the determination unit determines that the file system of the new recording medium is not the same as the file system of the virtual directory tree, it is not possible to integrate the directory tree of the new recording medium into the virtual directory tree. An informing means for informing that it is possible;
The file management system according to claim 3, further comprising: In a file management method for managing a file by connecting a plurality of recording media having different directory trees with different root directories to an electronic device,
Detecting the plurality of recording media connected to the electronic device;
Next, the directory tree is read from each of the detected recording media,
Next, in order from the top layer, the same name folder in the same layer is searched from the read directory tree, and the searched same name folder in the same layer is set as one folder, and the folder is associated with the folder. Create a virtual directory tree by repeating the operation of writing the lower level folder,
Next, based on the created virtual directory tree, access to the files stored in the plurality of recording media is managed.

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