JP2009020791A - Information gathering system and method of network, and information processor - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an information gathering system and method capable of gathering information and controlling the gathered information without excessively increasing performance and resources of each node in a proper number of nodes, to which information gathering functions are allocated, or placing excessive loads to a network, and to provide an information processor as a node. <P>SOLUTION: When each of nodes constituting the network has a means for performing a change between an ON state and an OFF state of an information gathering function and a means for determining a change according to a predetermined change rule, a node having an information gathering function autonomously changes to another node according to the circumstances of the nodes constituting the network, and consequently, a proper number of nodes are maintained continuously. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an information collection system, an information collection method, and an information processing apparatus as a node constituting a network that transmit and receive information between a plurality of nodes.

  In recent years, a network having a communication form in which data is freely transmitted and received between arbitrary nodes constituting the network has been actively used.

  Conventionally, there is a server that plays the role of a host at the center, and each terminal as a client accesses the host server, and if it is necessary to exchange between terminals, the host server mediates A centralized network was the mainstream.

  In contrast, so-called distributed processing networks are gradually appearing. In order to realize a mechanism for distributing the information to be stored and for distributing the processing, data communication must be freely performed between the nodes constituting the network.

  A typical form is a form of a communication network called P2P (Peer to Peer). P2P is a network usage mode in which information is directly exchanged between an unspecified number of nodes.

  A technique for efficiently achieving such a distributed processing network form has been studied, and a system has been formed in which data is distributed and held among arbitrary nodes and data is transmitted and received between them. As a result, the degree of freedom as a form of use of the network system has improved, and the user has gained great convenience.

  However, on the other hand, there is a problem of how to manage information about each node. For example, there is management of physical information and status information of each node, and other information unique to each node that may need to be referred to by other nodes. Conventionally, a specific server or the like for centrally managing data is provided. However, if a small number of fixed nodes are responsible for collecting and holding such information, the freedom of the network is lost.

  For example, as the size of the network increases and the number of nodes increases, the amount of data handled increases, but the load is concentrated on the server, performance and resources are required, and if the server is not operating, There is no response to the inquiry.

  Considering the point of the distributed processing network, it is desirable that the nodes share the roles equally. In particular, in a network form such as P2P, connected nodes may change dynamically quite frequently, and it is difficult to provide an information collection function to a small number of fixed nodes.

  From this point of view, an information collection system in which all nodes hold information related to other nodes has been considered (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  Patent Document 1 proposes a technique in which all nodes collect and hold physical information such as CPU usage rates and memory usage rates of other nodes. The intention of collecting physical information is to calculate the reliability based on the physical information and to perform connection management so that transmission / reception between the nodes is most efficiently performed based on the reliability of each node.

However, in this case as well, in a situation where the nodes constituting the network frequently and dynamically change, the number of inquiries increases in proportion to the number of nodes, and the load on the network increases. Also, a resource that holds information about other nodes is required.
JP 2005-252596 A

  As described above, in a distributed processing network such as P2P, if the information collection function for each node is assigned to a small number of fixed nodes, an excessive load is concentrated on the nodes, and performance and resource requirements are reduced. growing. There is also a problem in terms of reliability. On the other hand, it is not realistic to make all nodes play equal roles. As the number of nodes increases, the communication load becomes enormous and the load on the network increases.

  Further, even if an information collection function is assigned to an appropriate number of nodes according to the scale of the network, it is possible that the nodes to be connected frequently change, so that it is difficult to fix the nodes. In addition, the change directly affects the number of nodes sharing the information collection function, and it is difficult to maintain an appropriate number of nodes.

  The object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an appropriate number of nodes to which an information collecting function is assigned are autonomously replaced with other nodes according to the situation of the nodes constituting the network. Information collection system and information collection that can collect and manage information without excessive performance and resources of each node and without overloading the network. A method and an information processing apparatus as a node are provided.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following features.

  1. An information collection system in a network composed of a plurality of nodes capable of transmitting / receiving information to / from each other, wherein at least some of the plurality of nodes respectively receive information on other nodes Information collecting means for collecting and holding collected information by communication with a node; and switching means for switching between an information collecting function ON state for bringing the information collecting means into an operating state and an information collecting function OFF state for bringing the information collecting means into an inoperative state Based on the communication with the other nodes, the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state is estimated, and it is determined whether or not the switching unit performs switching so that the number of nodes satisfies a predetermined condition. A network information collection system comprising: a determination unit;

  2. Each of the at least some of the plurality of nodes has an individual information response unit that receives an individual information inquiry from each of the other nodes and responds based on the collected information to be held, and the individual information response unit includes the information 2. The network information collection system according to 1, wherein the network information collection system operates when the collection function is ON and does not operate when the information collection function is OFF.

  3. The determination means is configured so that the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the collection information obtained by the information collection function ON state node transmitting the information collection inquiry and the response from other nodes is a predetermined upper limit. The first switching rule for determining switching by itself when the value is larger than the value and the information collection function estimated based on the number of information collection queries received from other nodes within a certain period by the information collection function ON state node When the number of nodes in the ON state is larger than the predetermined upper limit value, the second switching rule for determining switching by itself and the node in the information collection function OFF state make an information collection inquiry from other nodes within a certain period of time. The third switching rule for determining switching by itself when the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of received messages is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value And the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of received information inquiry and the response received from other nodes is smaller than the predetermined lower limit value. 3. The network information collection system according to 2, wherein the determination is executed in accordance with one or more switching rules of the fourth switching rule for determining switching by itself.

  4). Each of the plurality of nodes constituting the network has an information collection stop unit operable only when the information collection function is in an ON state, and the determination unit determines that a node in the information collection function is in an ON state. When a predetermined time elapses after the collection function is turned on, the determination is performed according to the fifth switching rule for determining switching by itself, and the information collection stopping unit determines according to the fifth switching rule. When the switching by the switching means is executed, the information collection stop notification is transmitted to another node satisfying a predetermined condition, and the determination means further includes the node in the information collection function OFF state. The network according to 2 or 3, wherein when the collection stop notification is received, the determination is performed according to a sixth switching rule for determining switching by itself. Information collection system.

  5). In the fifth switching rule, when a node in the information collection function ON state terminates connection to the network, or when it determines that it is inappropriate to maintain the information collection function ON state, 5. The network information collecting system according to 4, wherein the switching is determined.

  6). An information collection method in a network composed of a plurality of nodes capable of transmitting / receiving information to / from each other, wherein at least some of the plurality of nodes, information on other nodes is An information collecting step for collecting and holding collected information by communication with a node; an information collecting function ON state for executing the information collecting step; and a switching step for switching an information collecting function OFF state not to be executed; and the other node And a determination step of determining whether or not to perform switching by the switching step so that the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state is estimated based on communication with the node and the number of nodes satisfies a predetermined condition. A network information collection method comprising:

  7. For each of the at least some of the plurality of nodes, an individual information inquiry step from each of the other nodes is received and responded based on the collected information to be held, and the individual information response step includes the information collection step 7. The network information collection method according to 6, wherein the network information collection method is executed when the function is on and is not executed when the information collection function is off.

  8). In the determination step, the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the collection information obtained by the information collection function ON state transmitting the information collection inquiry and the response from other nodes is a predetermined upper limit. The first switching rule for determining switching by itself when the value is larger than the value, and the information collection function estimated based on the number of information collection queries received from other nodes within a certain period by the information collection function ON state node When the number of nodes in the ON state is larger than a predetermined upper limit value, the second switching rule for determining switching by itself and the node in the information collection function OFF state make an information collection inquiry from other nodes within a certain period of time The third switching for determining switching by itself when the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of received signals is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value In principle, the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of information collection function OFF nodes that have transmitted individual information inquiries and received responses from other nodes is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value. 8. The network information collecting method according to 7, wherein the determination is executed according to one or more switching rules of the fourth switching rule for determining switching by itself.

  9. For each of the plurality of nodes constituting the network, an information collection stop step that functions only when the information collection function is in an ON state is provided, and in the determination step, a node in the information collection function ON state has its own information collection function When a predetermined time has elapsed since entering the ON state, the determination is executed according to the fifth switching rule for determining switching by itself, and the information collection stop step is based on the determination according to the fifth switching rule. When the switching in the switching step is executed, its own information collection stop notification is transmitted to another node that satisfies a predetermined condition, and in the determination step, a node in the information collection function OFF state further receives the information collection The determination is executed according to a sixth switching rule for determining switching by itself when a stop notification is received 7 or 8 Network method of information collection described.

  10. In the fifth switching rule, when a node in the information collection function ON state terminates connection to the network, or when it determines that it is inappropriate to maintain the information collection function ON state, 10. The network information collecting method according to 9, wherein switching is determined.

  11. An information processing device as a node in a network composed of a plurality of nodes capable of transmitting / receiving information to / from each other, and at least some of the plurality of information processing devices among the information processing devices as the plurality of nodes , Information about other nodes is collected by communication with each node, information collecting means for holding the collected information, information collecting function ON state for making the information collecting means into an operating state, and information for making it in an inoperative state Based on the communication with the switching means for switching the collection function OFF state and the other nodes, the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state is estimated, and the switching is performed so that the number of nodes satisfies a predetermined condition. And determining means for determining whether or not to perform switching by the means, information processing as a node of the network Apparatus.

  12 Each of the at least some of the plurality of information processing apparatuses has individual information response means for receiving an individual information inquiry from each of the other nodes and responding based on the collected information to be held, and the individual information response means, 12. The information processing apparatus according to 11, which operates in the information collection function ON state and does not operate in the information collection function OFF state.

  13. The determination means is configured so that the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the collection information obtained by the information collection function ON state node transmitting the information collection inquiry and the response from other nodes is a predetermined upper limit. The first switching rule for determining switching by itself when the value is larger than the value and the information collection function estimated based on the number of information collection queries received from other nodes within a certain period by the information collection function ON state node When the number of nodes in the ON state is larger than the predetermined upper limit value, the second switching rule for determining switching by itself and the node in the information collection function OFF state make an information collection inquiry from other nodes within a certain period of time. The third switching rule for determining switching by itself when the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of received messages is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value And the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of received information inquiry and the response received from other nodes is smaller than the predetermined lower limit value. 13. The information processing apparatus according to 12, wherein the determination is performed in accordance with one or more switching rules of the fourth switching rule for determining switching by itself.

  14 Each of the information processing devices as the plurality of nodes constituting the network has an information collection stop unit operable only when the information collection function is in an ON state, and the determination unit is a node in the information collection function ON state However, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the information collection function was turned on, the information collection stop means performs the determination according to the fifth switching rule for determining whether to switch the information collection function. When switching by the switching means is executed based on the determination according to the rule, the information collection stop notification is transmitted to other nodes that satisfy a predetermined condition, and the determination means further includes the information collection function OFF state. When the node receives the information collection stop notification, the node executes determination according to a sixth switching rule for determining switching by itself 12 or The information processing apparatus according to 3.

  15. In the fifth switching rule, when a node in the information collection function ON state terminates connection to the network, or when it determines that it is inappropriate to maintain the information collection function ON state, 14. The information processing apparatus according to 14, wherein the information processing apparatus determines switching.

  According to the information collection system, the information collection method, and the information processing apparatus as a node according to the present invention, each node configuring the network has means for switching between the information collection function ON state and the OFF state, and predetermined switching Means to determine switching according to the rules.

  As a result, the appropriate number of nodes in the information collection function ON state can be autonomously replaced with other nodes according to the status of the nodes constituting the network, and the appropriate number of nodes can be continuously maintained. It is possible to collect and manage information without excessive resources and without overburdening the network.

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

(Overall network configuration)
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an overall configuration of a network 1 configured by information processing apparatuses as an information collection system according to the present embodiment. The overall configuration of a network 1 as an information collection system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the network 1 includes a plurality of terminal devices 2 (21, 22,..., 2n), a switching hub 3, a router 4, and an authentication server 5 and other nodes (Local Area Network). ). These terminal devices 2 are connected to the switching hub 3 in a star shape by a twisted pair cable.

  A terminal device 2 as a node constituting a network is an information processing device according to the present invention, and executes data input / output processing with another device such as a personal computer, a workstation, or a printer. It is a device to do. Hereinafter, the term “node” simply refers to this terminal device, and a description will be given assuming that a personal computer as an information processing device is used.

  In the present embodiment, a communication network called P2P (Peer to Peer) is employed. P2P is a network usage mode in which information is directly exchanged between an unspecified number of nodes, and there are two types, technically requiring a central server, and carrying data in a bucket relay manner. Even when a central server is required, the central server only provides a file search database and manages connection of nodes, and exchange of data itself is performed by direct connection between nodes.

  In this embodiment, the central server is not used, and the connection topology of FIG. 3 will be described later. However, the nodes (information processing apparatuses) 2 associated in advance are directly connected and communicated. Other nodes are indirectly connected through directly connected nodes. The authentication server 5 is responsible only for management related to the certificate for authentication, and is not directly related to connection for communication. The router 4 is not directly involved in communication between nodes (information processing apparatuses).

  In P2P, since the nodes communicate directly with each other, the security of how to authenticate each other's validity and how to suppress the room for unauthorized entry is important. For this purpose, a digital certificate issued by the authentication server 5 is used.

  Hereinafter, from the above viewpoint, in the network according to the present embodiment, an information collecting method capable of collecting and holding information on each node at any node and stably providing information to the necessary node when necessary Describe the system. That is, among the nodes constituting the network, at least some of the plurality of nodes each have an information collection function, and by autonomously switching between the ON state and the OFF state of the function, the nodes constituting the network Depending on the situation, it is necessary to continuously maintain the appropriate number of collected information, so that the performance and resources of each node are not excessive and the network is not overburdened. A management system will be described.

(Configuration of information processing device as a node)
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the node (information processing apparatus) 2.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the information processing apparatus 2 includes a CPU 20a, a RAM 20b, a ROM 20c, a hard disk 20d, a communication interface 20e, an image interface 20f, an input / output interface 20g, and other various circuits or devices.

  The communication interface 20e is, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card), and is connected to one of the ports of the switching hub 3 via a twisted pair cable. The image interface 20f is connected to a monitor and sends a video signal for displaying a screen to the monitor.

  The input / output interface 20g is connected to an input device such as a keyboard or a mouse or an external storage device such as a CD-ROM drive. And the signal which shows the content of operation which the user performed with respect to the input device is input from an input device. Alternatively, data recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM is read by an external storage device and input. Alternatively, data to be written to the recording medium is output to the external storage device.

  The hard disk 20d will be described later with reference to a functional block diagram (FIG. 5). The data holding unit 201, the information collection function data holding unit 202, the information collection determination unit 204, the information collection operation unit 205, and the data operation unit 206 will be described later. A program and data for realizing functions such as a data reception unit 207, a data analysis unit 208, a data creation unit 209, a data transmission unit 210, other information holding unit 211, and other operation unit 212 are stored. These programs and data are read into the RAM 20b as necessary, and the programs are executed by the CPU 20a.

  Each node 2 is given a host name (machine name), an IP address, and a MAC address as identification information for identifying each other node 2. The host name can be freely assigned by the administrator of the network 1 or the like. The IP address is given according to the rules of the network 1. The MAC address is an address fixedly given to the communication interface 10e of the node 2. Note that another unique ID may be used instead of the MAC address.

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that host names such as “PC1”, “PC2”,... Are assigned to the nodes (information processing apparatuses) 21, 22,. Hereinafter, these nodes 2 may be described by host names.

(Node connection mode)
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a node connection form, that is, a logical topology of the information processing apparatus 2. A connection form of nodes (information processing apparatuses) will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the node 2 is assumed to be arranged in the virtual space. Then, as indicated by a dotted line, it is associated with at least one other node 2 in the vicinity in the virtual space. And, by these associations, all the nodes 2 are associated directly or indirectly with each other.

  Note that “directly related” means that they are connected by a single dotted line in FIG. 3 (for example, a relationship such as PC1 and PC2 or PC9 in FIG. 3), and “indirectly related”. Means that they are connected by two or more dotted lines and one or more nodes (for example, the relationship between PC1 and PC4 in FIG. 3). Node 2 sends data to other nodes 2 that are directly associated with it.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the connection table TL of the nodes 2 associated as shown in FIG. For each node 2, a list of information for connection with other nodes 2 capable of direct data transmission, that is, “directly related” is stored in a table.

  For example, connection tables TL1, TL2, TL6, TL7, TL8, and TL9 as shown in FIG. 4 are stored in PC1, PC2, PC6, PC7, PC8, and PC9 in FIG. 3, respectively.

(Processing functions of each part of the information processing device)
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the node (information processing apparatus) 2. The processing function of each unit of the node (information processing apparatus) 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, processing functions other than the processing related to the information collection function will be described.

  The data operation unit 206 stores various types of data in the data holding unit 201, refers to them, and performs writing, reading, various updating processes, and the like as required. It has a processing function related to the handling of data shared in the network.

  The data holding unit 201 holds data to be processed by the data operation unit 206, that is, data shared in the network.

  The other information holding unit 211 is attribute data indicating attributes of the node 2 or the user, digital certificate of the node 2 itself, data used by the operating system (OS) or application software, and the user created by the application software Data and other various data are stored as files.

  The digital certificate is issued by the authentication server 5 at the request of the node 2, held by the node 2, and used to authenticate each other during communication between the nodes 2.

  In addition, the other information holding unit 211 stores a connection table TL that shows a list of attributes such as the host name, IP address, and MAC address of another node 2 directly associated with the node 2 itself. . For example, FIG. 4 shows an example in which the connection tables TL1, TL2, TL6, TL7, TL8, and TL9 are stored in the connection table holding unit 201 of PC1, PC2, PC6, PC7, PC8, and PC9 in FIG. As stated above. The contents of these connection tables TL are created in advance by the administrator based on the association of each node 2.

  The other operation unit 212 manages the connection table TL held in the other information holding unit 211. In addition, processing such as storing data in the other information holding unit 211 or updating the stored data is performed. For example, the attribute data is updated every time the environment or setting content of the node 2 changes. Further, the authentication process of the other node 2 is performed based on the digital certificate transmitted from the other node 2.

  The data operation unit 206 and the other operation unit 212 perform data communication with the other nodes 2 of the network 1 via the data reception unit 207 and the data transmission unit 210 as necessary, and the data holding unit 201 and The data in the other information holding unit 211 is referred to or updated.

  The data receiving unit 207 performs control processing for performing data communication with other nodes 2. The data receiving unit 207 receives a packet necessary for the node 2 among the packets flowing through the network 1.

  The data analyzing unit 208 extracts necessary information from the received data received by the data receiving unit 207 and analyzes the contents thereof, thereby determining the type of the received data.

  The data creation unit 209 creates transmission data for transmission to another node 2 based on an instruction from the other operation unit 212.

  The data transmission unit 210 transmits the packetized transmission data generated by the transmission data creation unit 209 to the other nodes 2.

<Processing functions related to information collection function>
Next, information is collected and stored to collectively manage information on each node using FIG. 6 while autonomously switching the node having the function of collecting and holding the information and collecting the information upon request. The processing function for maintaining it appropriately will be described.

  Note that the processing functions described with reference to FIG. 6 may be provided in at least some of the plurality of nodes constituting the network. A node that does not have the processing function shown in FIG. 6 (always OFF state) may be connected to the network.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed internal configuration example of the information collection function data holding unit 202, the information collection determination unit 204, and the information collection operation unit 205 in FIG.

  Note that the information regarding each node is information that may need to be referred to by other nodes, such as physical information regarding the device and performance of each node, status information, and information regarding individually held data. Anything

  In the following explanation, a node having an information collection function acquires information on each of the above nodes is called information collection, and information collected and held by the node having an information collection function is called collection information. Information requested by other nodes for reference and provided based on the collected information is referred to as individual information.

  The information collection function data holding unit 202 holds data handled by the information collection operation unit 205 and the information collection determination unit 204. Specific examples of data to be held are collection information 241, switching rules 242, self-state information 243, and the like.

  The collection information 241 is held only by a node having an information collection function. That is, the information about each other node collected by collecting information is held.

  The switching rule 242 is a rule serving as a reference for making a determination for switching between the information collection function ON state and the OFF state by the determination unit 231 described later. It also includes set values that serve as criteria for determination.

  The self-state information 243 has an information collection function such as the current state of whether the information collection function is ON or OFF, the elapsed time after entering the state, the performance sufficient to bear the load in the ON state, and the resource state. Data related to the conditions for

  The information collection determination unit 204 performs processing for appropriately maintaining a node having an information collection function while autonomously switching the node. The information collection determination unit 204 includes a determination unit 231 and a switching unit 232.

  The determination unit 231 refers to the information collection function data holding unit 202 and determines whether to switch between the information collection function ON state and the OFF state according to the switching rule 242 and the self state information 243. That is, the determination unit 231 functions as a determination unit.

  The switching unit 232 switches between the information collection function ON state and the OFF state according to the determination by the determination unit 231. That is, the switching unit 232 functions as a switching unit.

  The information collection operation unit 205 is an information collection unit 221a that operates only when the information collection function is on, an information collection stop unit 222a, an individual information response unit 223a, and information that operates regardless of whether the information collection function is on or off. A collection response unit 221b, a stop acceptance unit 222b, and an individual information request unit 223b are included.

  The information collection unit 221a operates only when the information collection function is ON, and transmits an information collection inquiry to each node at regular intervals to collect the latest information regarding each node. The collected information is held as collected information 241 in the information collecting function data holding unit 202. That is, the information collection unit 221a functions as an information collection unit.

  The information collection response unit 221b receives the information collection inquiry and returns information about each node as a response within a certain time.

  The individual information request unit 223b transmits an individual information inquiry to all nodes in anticipation of a response from a node whose information collection function is ON when it is necessary to refer to information on another node.

  The individual information response unit 223a operates only when the information collection function is ON, receives an individual information inquiry, and, as a response, sends individual information based on the collection information 241 held in the information collection function data holding unit 202 within a certain period of time. Send back. That is, the individual information response unit 223a functions as an individual information response unit.

  The information collection stopping unit 222a operates only when the information collection function is in an ON state, and terminates connection to the network, cannot bear a load on the information collection function, or a predetermined time elapses after the ON state. When the information collection function ON state is stopped according to the switching rule, the information collection stop notification is transmitted to another node that satisfies a predetermined condition before that. That is, the information collection stop unit 222a functions as information collection stop means.

  The stop acceptance unit 222b receives the information collection stop notification, and does not respond (or rejects) when the information collection function is already ON. When the information collecting function is in the OFF state, it is determined to switch to the ON state according to the switching rule, and an acceptance response is returned. Also, switching is executed.

  The information collection operation unit 205 performs data communication with the other nodes 2 of the network 1 via the data reception unit 207 and the data transmission unit 210 as necessary, and data of the information collection function data holding unit 202 as necessary. Refer to or update

(Processing related to information collection function)
In the network 1 according to the present embodiment, as described above, mutual authentication is performed between “associated” nodes (information processing apparatuses) defined by the connection table TL, and data is transmitted / received to / from each other.

  Based on such communication, data can be shared among nodes, and data that is shared as needed can be retrieved and acquired, so that any node can use the necessary data. It becomes possible.

  However, when data is freely communicated between the nodes and used in this way, there is information about each node that frequently needs to be referred to by other nodes. For example, as described above, any information that may need to be referred to by other nodes such as physical information related to the device and performance of each node, status information, and information related to individually held data is applicable. .

  It is more efficient to manage such information collectively. In other words, the node responsible for the information collecting function collects, holds, and provides information upon request.

  However, the number of nodes responsible for the information collection function is inefficient if it is too much or too little from the viewpoint of the performance and resources of each node and the load on the network.

  If a small number of nodes are responsible for the information collection function, reliability is required for the nodes. For example, if a failure such as connection stop occurs in some nodes that happen to be in charge of the information collection function, there is a risk that necessary information cannot be acquired.

  In addition, when a large number of nodes are in charge of the information collection function, the frequency of information collection inquiries and the combination may increase enormously, and the load on the network may become excessive.

  Further, even if an information collection function is assigned to an appropriate number of nodes according to the scale of the network, it is possible that the nodes to be connected frequently change, so that it is difficult to fix the nodes. In addition, the change directly affects the number of nodes sharing the information collection function, and it is difficult to maintain an appropriate number of nodes.

  In the network 1 according to the present embodiment, in order to deal with such dangers, at least some of the plurality of nodes constituting the network each have an information collection function, and at the same time, the information The collection function ON state and OFF state can be switched independently. Each node autonomously performs switching determination according to the switching rule, so that an appropriate number of nodes in the information collection function ON state are maintained as a whole.

  First, communication between nodes related to the information collection function will be described, and then a switching rule serving as a reference for performing determination for switching between the information collection function ON state and the OFF state will be described.

<Inter-node communication related to information collection function>
FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating the state of inter-node communication related to the information collection function when the network is configured of four nodes A, B, C, and D. Each step of inter-node communication related to the information collection function will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the following description of FIG. 7, four nodes A, B, C, and D are set as nodes related to the information collecting function. However, the network has no other information collecting function. It does not matter if nodes are included.

(1) Information Collection Inquiry FIG. 7A is a diagram showing information collection inquiry transmission and its response.

  First, in the node A in the information collection function ON state, the information collection unit 221a of the information collection operation unit 205 transmits an information collection inquiry to all the other nodes at a predetermined fixed period. This is an operation that can be performed only on a node in which the information collection function is ON.

  In each node (B, C, D) that has received the information collection inquiry, each information collection response unit 221b returns information (collection information) on each node as a response within a certain time.

  The node A that receives the response from each node holds the collected information in the information collection function data holding unit 202 as the collection information 241. The above functions as an information collecting process for the node A.

(2) Individual Information Inquiry FIG. 7B is a diagram showing transmission of individual information inquiry and its response.

  First, the node A (which may be in the ON state or the OFF state of the information collection function) makes an individual information inquiry to all other nodes when the individual information request unit 223b of the information collection operation unit 205 becomes necessary. Send. This is because it is not known which node is in the information collection function ON state.

  Among the nodes (B, C, D) that have received the individual information inquiry, the individual information response unit 223a of the information collection operation unit 205 collects information as a response within a certain time for the node D in the information collection function ON state. Individual information based on the collected information 241 held in the function data holding unit 202 is returned. The other nodes B and C in the information collection function OFF state do not respond.

  The node A that receives the response from the node D acquires the individual information. The above functions for the node D as an individual information response process.

(3) Information Collection Stop Notification FIG. 7 (c) is a diagram showing the transmission of the information collection stop notification and its response.

  First, when the node A in the information collection function ON state determines the stop of the ON state according to a predetermined switching rule, the information collection stop unit 222a of the information collection operation unit 205 performs the first operation that satisfies the predetermined condition. The node B in the information collection function OFF state is selected, and an information collection stop notification is transmitted. Naturally, this is an operation that can only be performed on a node in which the information collection function is ON.

  This corresponds to the node B receiving the information collection stop notification being requested to switch to the ON state. The stop acceptance unit 222b of the information collection operation unit 205 determines whether switching to the ON state is possible and returns a response within a certain time. In FIG. 7C, a rejection response is performed.

  Upon receiving the rejection response from the node B, the node A selects the node D in the second information collection function OFF state that satisfies the predetermined condition, and transmits an information collection stop notification again.

  Upon receiving the information collection stop notification, the node D determines whether the stop accepting unit 222b can be switched to the ON state, and returns an acceptance response in FIG. 7C. Node D performs switching to the ON state.

  The node A that has received the acceptance response from the node D performs switching to the OFF state. The above functions as an information collection stop process for the node A.

<Judgment according to switching rules, switching processing>
A switching rule is set for the inter-node communication related to the information collection function described above, and switching is determined and executed based on the switching rule. That is, the determination unit 231 of the information collection unit 204 determines whether to switch from the information collection function ON state or the OFF state according to the switching rule 242 held in the information collection function data holding unit 202, and the information collection unit 204 The switching unit 232 performs switching.

  An example of the switching rule and determination processing based on it will be described below. FIGS. 14 to 16 to be referred to are diagrams schematically showing the state of determination processing when the network is composed of four nodes A, B, C, and D related to the information collection function. .

  In the figure, it is assumed that all four nodes A, B, C, and D are related to the information collection function, that is, the determination and switching processing functions are provided. Of course, the node does not have such a function in the network. May be included in the following switching rules and their execution.

(1) First switching rule The first switching rule is that an information collection function ON state is estimated based on collected information acquired by a response from another node when an information collection function ON state node transmits an information collection inquiry. When the number of nodes in the state is larger than a predetermined upper limit value, the switching is determined by itself.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of determination processing based on the first switching rule. FIG. 14A is a diagram for explaining the state of inter-node communication to which the first switching rule is applied. An example of determination processing based on the first switching rule will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 14A.

  The first switching rule is applied to a node in which the information collection function is ON. First, in step S11, an information collection inquiry for each predetermined period is transmitted to each node. In response to this, a response from each node is received in step S12. Step S12 is repeated until a predetermined time elapses in step S13, because the responses are received from all nodes.

  In FIG. 14A, the node A in the information collection function ON state transmits an information collection inquiry to the nodes B, C, and D, and obtains a response from each node.

  When a predetermined time has elapsed and a response from each node is received (step S13: YES), the number N of nodes in the information collection function ON state is estimated from the collected information in step S14. This may include ON / OFF state information of the information collection function of each node in the collected information, or may be attached at the time of response. The ON / OFF state information of the information collection function of each node is totaled to calculate the number N of nodes in the ON state.

  In FIG. 14A, since none of the nodes B, C, and D is in the ON state and only the node A is in the ON state, the determination unit 231 of the information collection determination unit 204 of the node A is in the information collection function ON state. The number of nodes N is estimated to be 1.

  Next, in step S15, the estimated number of nodes N is compared with Nu, which is a predetermined set upper limit value, and it is determined whether or not it exceeds Nu. When the estimated number of nodes N exceeds the set upper limit value Nu (step S15: YES), the next step S16 is executed. Otherwise (step S15: NO), the determination ends without switching.

  In step S16, since the estimated number of nodes N exceeds the set upper limit value Nu, the determination unit 231 of the information collection determination unit 204 determines the information according to the first switching rule held as the switching rule 242 in the information collection function data holding unit 202. The switch to the collection function OFF state is determined. That is, the above steps S14 to S16 function as a determination process.

  In the next step S17, the switching unit 232 of the information collection determination unit 204 performs switching to the information collection function OFF state in accordance with the switching determination to the information collection function OFF state in step S16. The self-status information 243 and the like of the information collection function data holding unit 202 are updated. That is, step S17 functions as a switching process.

  In FIG. 14A, the estimated number of nodes N = 1 in the information collection function ON state does not exceed the set upper limit (Nu = 1), so the first switching rule does not apply. It is determined that there is no switching.

  Above, description of the example of a determination process based on a 1st switching rule is complete | finished.

(2) Second switching rule The second switching rule is to set the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of information collection queries received from other nodes within a certain period of time. When the number of nodes is larger than a predetermined upper limit value, the switching is determined by itself.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of determination processing based on the second switching rule. FIG. 14B is a diagram for explaining a state of inter-node communication to which the second switching rule is applied. An example of determination processing based on the second switching rule will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 14B.

  The second switching rule is also applied to the node in which the information collection function is ON. First, in step S22, an information collection inquiry for each predetermined period is received from any node. On the other hand, step S22 is repeated until a predetermined period elapses in step S23.

  The predetermined period is an interval at which the information collection inquiry is transmitted. The reason for waiting for the elapse of this period is to receive the information collection inquiry from all the nodes in the information collection function ON state. The number of nodes in the information collection function ON state can be estimated from the number of information collection inquiries received during this period.

  In FIG. 14B, the node A in the information collection function ON state receives the information collection inquiry from the node D that is also in the information collection function ON state, and transmits a response. Next, even if a period until the information collection inquiry is received from the same node D has passed, the information collection inquiry is not received from the other nodes B and C, and they may be in the information collection function OFF state. Presumed.

  If all transmitted information collection queries are received during a predetermined period (step S23: YES), then in step S24, the number N of nodes in the information collection function ON state is estimated from the number of received information collection queries.

  In FIG. 14B, node D is in the ON state, nodes B and C are not in the ON state, and the number of information collection queries received is 1. Therefore, the determination unit 231 of the information collection determination unit 204 of the node A combines the reception number 1 (number of nodes 1 in the ON state) with the ON state of the node A itself, and the number N of nodes in the information collection function ON state is 2 is estimated.

  The subsequent step S15 and subsequent steps are the same as in the case of the determination processing example based on the first switching rule, and a description thereof will be omitted. That is, step S24 and steps S15 to S16 function as a determination process for applying the second switching rule, and step S17 functions as a switching process.

  In FIG. 14B, since the estimated number N of nodes in the information collection function ON state exceeds the set upper limit (Nu = 1), node A is determined to be switched by the second switching rule. Switching to the information collection function OFF state is executed.

  This is the end of the description of the determination processing example based on the second switching rule.

(3) Third switching rule The third switching rule is that the information collection function OFF state is set to the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of information collection queries received from other nodes within a certain period. When the number of nodes is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value, the switching is determined by itself.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of determination processing based on the third switching rule. FIG. 15A is a diagram for explaining a state of inter-node communication to which the third switching rule is applied. An example of determination processing based on the third switching rule will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 15A.

  The third switching rule is applied to a node in the information collection function OFF state. First, in step S22, as in the example of determination processing based on the second switching rule, an information collection inquiry for each predetermined period is received from any node, and is repeated until the predetermined period elapses in step S23. Similarly, the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state is estimated from the number of receptions.

  In FIG. 15A, the node A in the information collection function OFF state receives the information collection inquiry from the node D in the information collection function ON state, and transmits a response. Next, even if a period until the information collection inquiry is received from the same node D has passed, the information collection inquiry is not received from the other nodes B and C, and they may be in the information collection function OFF state. Presumed.

  If all transmitted information collection inquiries are received in a predetermined period (step S23: YES), then in step S24, the number N of nodes in the information collection function ON state is estimated from the number of information collection inquiries received. This is the same as the case of the determination processing example based on the second switching rule.

  In FIG. 15A, node D is in the ON state, nodes B and C are not in the ON state, and the number of received information collection queries is 1. Therefore, the determination unit 231 of the information collection determination unit 204 of the node A estimates that the number N of nodes in the information collection function ON state is 1 based on the reception number 1.

  Next, in step S35, the estimated number of nodes N is compared with Nd, which is a predetermined setting lower limit value, and it is determined whether it is below Nd. When the estimated number of nodes N is less than the set lower limit value Nd (step S35: YES), the next step S36 is executed. Otherwise (step S35: NO), the determination ends without switching.

  In step S36, since the estimated number of nodes N is less than the set lower limit value Nd, the determination unit 231 of the information collection determination unit 204 determines the information according to the third switching rule held as the switching rule 242 in the information collection function data holding unit 202. It is determined whether or not the collection function is turned on. That is, step S24 and steps S35 to S36 function as a determination process.

  In the next step S17, according to the switching determination to the information collection function ON state in step S36, the switching unit 232 of the information collection determination unit 204 executes switching to the information collection function ON state. The self-status information 243 and the like of the information collection function data holding unit 202 are updated. That is, step S17 functions as a switching process.

  In FIG. 15A, the estimated number of ON-state nodes N = 1 does not fall below the set lower limit value (Nd = 1), so the third switching rule does not apply and it is determined that there is no switching. .

  Above, description of the example of a determination process based on a 3rd switching rule is complete | finished.

(4) Fourth switching rule The fourth switching rule is based on the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of times that a node in the information collection function OFF state transmits an individual information inquiry and receives a response from another node. When the number of nodes in the node is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value, the switching is determined by itself.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of determination processing based on the fourth switching rule. FIG. 15B is a diagram illustrating the state of inter-node communication to which the fourth switching rule is applied. An example of determination processing based on the fourth switching rule will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 15B.

  The fourth switching rule is applied to a node in the information collection function OFF state. First, in step S41, an individual information inquiry is transmitted to each node when necessary. In response to this, a response from each node is received in step S42. Step S42 is repeated until a predetermined time elapses in step S13, because this is to receive responses from all nodes that should be responding (in the information collection function ON state).

  In FIG. 15B, the node A in the information collection function OFF state transmits an individual information inquiry to the nodes B, C, and D, and receives a response from the node D in the information collection function ON state. No response is received from the other nodes B and C, and it is estimated that they are in the information collection function OFF state.

  When the predetermined time has elapsed and all responses from each node are received (step S13: YES), the number N of nodes in the information collection function ON state is estimated from the number of received responses to the individual information inquiry in step S44.

  In FIG. 15B, since the nodes B and C are not in the ON state and only the node D that has responded is in the ON state, the determination unit 231 of the information collection determination unit 204 of the node A is in the information collection function ON state. The number of nodes N is estimated to be 1.

  The subsequent step S35 and subsequent steps are the same as in the case of the determination processing example based on the third switching rule, and the description thereof is omitted. That is, step S44 and steps S35 to S36 function as a determination process for applying the fourth switching rule, and step S17 functions as a switching process.

  In FIG. 15B, the estimated number of nodes N = 1 in the information collection function ON state does not fall below the set lower limit value (Nd = 1), so the fourth switching rule does not apply. It is determined that there is no switching.

  This is the end of the description of the determination processing example based on the fourth switching rule.

(5) Fifth switching rule The fifth switching rule determines switching by itself when a predetermined time elapses after a node in the information collection function ON state is turned on.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of determination processing based on the fifth switching rule. FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining a state of inter-node communication to which the fifth and sixth switching rules are applied. An example of determination processing based on the fifth switching rule will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 16.

  The fifth switching rule is applied to the node in which the information collection function is ON. First, in step S51, the self-status information 243 held in the information collecting function data holding unit 202 is referred to and the time when the information collecting function is turned on is referred to.

  Subsequently, in step S52, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the ON state was set. This is to avoid the bias of reliability by avoiding the information collecting function ON state for a long period of time and rotating it at an appropriate time.

  When the set time has elapsed (step S52: YES), the next step S16 is executed. Otherwise (step S52: NO), it does not correspond to the fifth switching rule, and therefore the determination is completed without switching. The rotation does not start until the predetermined time has elapsed.

  Next, in step S <b> 16, since a predetermined time for rotation has elapsed, the determination unit 231 of the information collection determination unit 204 follows the fifth switching rule held as the switching rule 242 in the information collection function data holding unit 202. The switch to the information collection function OFF state is determined. That is, step S51 to step S52 and step S16 function as a determination step.

  Next, in step S53, the information collection stop unit 222a of the information collection operation unit 205 selects a transmission destination node for the information collection stop notification. This is the selection of a node that takes over the ON state by rotation when stopping the information collection function ON state. Therefore, it is selected from the nodes that are OFF at that time.

  The selection method is arbitrary. For example, referring to the collection information 241 of each node held in the information collection function data holding unit 202, the node that has been in the OFF state and has the longest time may be selected. If there is condition data for more appropriate selection, it may be freely used.

  An information collection stop notification is transmitted to the notification destination node thus selected.

  In FIG. 16, since all of the nodes B, C, and D are in the OFF state, the node A selects the node B as the first notification destination by the selection method and transmits the information collection stop notification. .

  In the next step S54, it is determined whether or not there is an acceptance response from the notification destination node that has received the information collection stop notification. If there is an acceptance response (step S54: YES), the next step S17 is executed.

  In step S17, according to the switching determination to the information collection function OFF state in step S16, the switching unit 232 of the information collection determination unit 204 performs switching to the OFF state. In addition, the self-state information 243 of the information collection function data holding unit 202 is updated. That is, step S17 functions as a switching process.

  If there is no acceptance response (step S54: NO), the process returns to step S53 to reselect the notification destination node.

  In FIG. 16, node A has received a rejection response from node B, which is the first selected notification destination, selects node D as the second notification destination from nodes C and D, and sends an information collection stop notification. Sending again. In addition, an acceptance response is received from the node D.

  As described above, in the repetition of step S53 and step S54, when there is an acceptance response, the rotation by the information collection stop notification is established and the switching step of step S17 is executed.

  In FIG. 16, the acceptance response is received from the second notification destination node D, and the node A switches to its own OFF state.

  This is the end of the description of the determination processing example based on the fifth switching rule.

(6) Sixth switching rule The sixth switching rule is to determine switching by itself when a node in the information collection function OFF state receives an information collection stop notification.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of determination processing based on the sixth switching rule. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the state of inter-node communication to which the fifth and sixth switching rules are applied as described above. An example of determination processing based on the sixth switching rule will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 16.

  The sixth switching rule is applied to a node in the information collection function OFF state. First, in step S61, the stop acceptance unit 222b of the information collection operation unit 205 receives an information collection stop notification. This corresponds to a takeover request for turning on the information collection function by rotation.

  In step S62, it is determined whether or not the information collecting function can be turned on. This is to avoid the case where it is inappropriate to maintain the information collection function ON state due to insufficient performance and resources, or due to a plan to stop the connection.

  When an acceptance response can be made to the information collection stop notification (step S62: YES), the next step S63 is executed. When that is not right (step S62: NO), it does not correspond to a 6th switching rule, Therefore Therefore, it is complete | finished determination without switching. Rotation is left to other nodes.

  In FIG. 16, in response to the information collection stop notification transmitted by the node A in the information collection function ON state, the node B returns a rejection response and the node D returns an acceptance response.

  In step S63, an acceptance response is transmitted to the transmission source of the information collection stop notification, that is, the rotation is accepted.

  Next, in step S <b> 36, the determination unit 231 of the information collection determination unit 204 determines switching to the information collection function ON state according to the sixth switching rule held as the switching rule 242 in the information collection function data holding unit 202. That is, step S62 to step S63 and step S36 function as a determination step.

  In the next step S17, the switching unit 232 of the information collection determination unit 204 executes switching to the OFF state in accordance with the switching determination to the information collection function OFF state in step S16. In addition, the self-state information 243 of the information collection function data holding unit 202 is updated. That is, step S17 functions as a switching process.

  In FIG. 16, the node D that has received the information collection stop notification returns an acceptance response and switches itself to the information collection function ON state.

  This is the end of the description of the determination processing example based on the sixth switching rule.

  In the above-described embodiment, the fifth switching rule and the sixth switching rule are assumed to be rotated, but may be modified to more extended rules.

  For example, the fifth rule for determining whether to switch itself when a node in the information collection function ON state has passed a predetermined time after it has entered the information collection function ON state is expanded as follows: You can also.

  In the fifth switching rule, when a node in the information collection function ON state terminates the connection to the network or determines that it is inappropriate to maintain the information collection function ON state, It is to determine the switching by itself.

  As described above, the fifth switching rule and the corresponding sixth switching rule are generally used for stopping the ON state for local reasons, not for maintaining the number of nodes in the information collecting function ON state. Can also be applied.

  As described above, according to the information collection system, the information collection method, and the information processing apparatus as a node according to the present embodiment, each node configuring the network has means for switching between the information collection function ON state and the OFF state. And has means for determining switching according to a predetermined switching rule. As a result, the appropriate number of nodes in the information collection function ON state can be autonomously replaced with other nodes according to the status of the nodes constituting the network, and the appropriate number of nodes can be continuously maintained. It is possible to collect and manage information without excessive resources and without overburdening the network.

  The scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. Unless it deviates from the meaning of this invention, those changed forms are also included in the range.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of a network 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of a node (information processing apparatus) 2 configuring a network 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of the connection form of each node 2 which comprises the network 1, ie, the logical topology of a node. It is a figure which shows the connection table TL example of the node 2 linked | related like FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of a node (information processing apparatus) 2. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a more detailed functional configuration example of a node (information processing apparatus) 2; FIG. It is a figure which shows typically the mode of the communication between nodes in connection with an information collection function in case a network is comprised with four nodes. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the determination process based on a 1st switching rule. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the determination process based on a 2nd switching rule. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the determination process based on a 3rd switching rule. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the determination process based on a 4th switching rule. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the determination process based on a 5th switching rule. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the determination process based on a 6th switching rule. It is a figure explaining the mode of the communication between nodes to which (a) 1st switching rule and (b) 2nd switching rule are applied. It is a figure explaining the mode of the communication between nodes to which (a) 3rd switching rule and (b) 4th switching rule are applied. It is a figure explaining the mode of the communication between nodes to which a 5th switching rule and a 6th switching rule are applied.

Explanation of symbols

1 Network (P2P)
2 Information processing device (node)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 3 Switching hub 4 Router 5 Authentication server 201 Data holding part 202 Information collection function data holding part 204 Information collection determination part 205 Information collection operation part 206 Data operation part 207 Data reception part 208 Data analysis part 209 Data creation part 210 Data transmission part 211 Other information holding unit 212 Other operation unit 221a Information collection unit 221b Information collection response unit 222a Information collection stop unit 222b Stop acceptance unit 223a Individual information response unit 223b Individual information request unit 231 determination unit 232 Switching unit 241 Collected information 242 Switching rule 243 Self Status information TL connection table

Claims (15)

An information collection system in a network composed of a plurality of nodes capable of transmitting / receiving information to / from each other,
At least some of the plurality of nodes are each
Information collecting means for collecting information about other nodes through communication with each node and holding the collected information;
Switching means for switching between an information collecting function ON state for bringing the information collecting means into an operating state and an information collecting function OFF state for bringing the information collecting means into an inoperative state;
Judgment that estimates the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state based on communication with the other nodes, and determines whether to perform switching by the switching means so that the number of nodes satisfies a predetermined condition And a network information collecting system. Each of the at least some of the plurality of nodes is
Receiving individual information inquiries from each of the other nodes, and having individual information response means for responding based on the collected information to be held,
2. The network information collection system according to claim 1, wherein the individual information response means operates in the information collection function ON state and does not operate in the information collection function OFF state. The determination means includes
When a node in the information collection function ON state transmits an information collection inquiry, and the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the collection information acquired by a response from another node is larger than a predetermined upper limit value. A first switching rule for determining switching by itself;
If the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of information collection queries received from other nodes within a certain period of time is greater than a predetermined upper limit, A second switching rule for determining switching;
When the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of information collection queries received from other nodes within a certain period of time is smaller than the predetermined lower limit value A third switching rule for determining switching;
When the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of nodes in which the information collection function is OFF transmits individual information inquiries and receives responses from other nodes is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value, A fourth switching rule for determining switching by itself;
The network information collection system according to claim 2, wherein the determination is performed in accordance with one or more switching rules. Each of the plurality of nodes constituting the network is
Having information collection stop means operable only when the information collection function is ON;
The determination means includes
When a predetermined time elapses after the node in which the information collection function is turned on, the node executes the determination according to the fifth switching rule for determining switching by itself.
The information collection stop means includes
Based on the determination according to the fifth switching rule, when performing switching by the switching means, it transmits its own information collection stop notification to other nodes that satisfy a predetermined condition,
The determination means further includes
4. The network according to claim 2, wherein a node in an information collection function OFF state executes determination according to a sixth switching rule for determining switching by itself when receiving the information collection stop notification. 5. Information collection system. The fifth switching rule is:
When a node in the information collection function ON state terminates connection to the network, or when it determines that it is inappropriate to maintain the information collection function ON state, it shall determine switching. The network information collection system according to claim 4, wherein: An information collection method in a network composed of a plurality of nodes capable of transmitting / receiving information to / from each other,
For each of at least some of the plurality of nodes,
An information collecting process for collecting information about other nodes by communication with each node and holding the collected information;
A switching step for switching between an information collecting function ON state for executing the information collecting step and an information collecting function OFF state for not executing;
Judgment that estimates the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state based on communication with the other nodes, and determines whether to perform switching by the switching step so that the number of nodes satisfies a predetermined condition And a network information collecting method comprising: a step. For each of the at least some of the plurality of nodes,
An individual information response step of receiving an individual information inquiry from each of the other nodes and responding based on the collected information to be held;
The network information collecting method according to claim 6, wherein the individual information response step is executed when the information collecting function is ON, and is not executed when the information collecting function is OFF. In the determination step,
When a node in the information collection function ON state transmits an information collection inquiry, and the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the collection information acquired by a response from another node is larger than a predetermined upper limit value. A first switching rule for determining switching by itself;
If the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of information collection queries received from other nodes within a certain period of time is greater than a predetermined upper limit, A second switching rule for determining switching;
When the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of information collection queries received from other nodes within a certain period of time is smaller than the predetermined lower limit value A third switching rule for determining switching;
When the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of nodes in which the information collection function is OFF transmits individual information inquiries and receives responses from other nodes is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value, A fourth switching rule for determining switching by itself;
The network information collection method according to claim 7, wherein the determination is performed in accordance with one or more switching rules. For each of the plurality of nodes constituting the network,
Comprising an information collection stop process that functions only when the information collection function is ON;
In the determination step,
The determination is executed in accordance with the fifth switching rule for determining switching when a predetermined time elapses after the node in which the information collection function is ON has entered the information collection function ON state,
In the information collection stop step,
Based on the determination according to the fifth switching rule, when switching in the switching step is executed, its own information collection stop notification is transmitted to another node that satisfies a predetermined condition,
In the determination step,
The network according to claim 7 or 8, wherein when a node in the information collection function OFF state receives the information collection stop notification, the determination is performed according to a sixth switching rule for determining switching by itself. Information collection method. The fifth switching rule is:
When a node in the information collection function ON state terminates connection to the network, or when it determines that it is inappropriate to maintain the information collection function ON state, it shall determine switching. The network information collection method according to claim 9. An information processing apparatus as a node in a network composed of a plurality of nodes capable of transmitting / receiving information to / from each other,
Among the information processing devices as the plurality of nodes, at least some of the plurality of information processing devices,
Information collecting means for collecting information about other nodes through communication with each node and holding the collected information;
Switching means for switching between an information collecting function ON state for bringing the information collecting means into an operating state and an information collecting function OFF state for bringing the information collecting means into an inoperative state;
Judgment that estimates the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state based on communication with the other nodes, and determines whether to perform switching by the switching means so that the number of nodes satisfies a predetermined condition And an information processing device as a node of the network. Each of the at least some of the plurality of information processing devices
Receiving individual information inquiries from each of the other nodes, and having individual information response means for responding based on the collected information to be held,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the individual information response unit operates in the information collection function ON state and does not operate in the information collection function OFF state. The determination means includes
When a node in the information collection function ON state transmits an information collection inquiry, and the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the collection information acquired by a response from another node is larger than a predetermined upper limit value. A first switching rule for determining switching by itself;
If the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of information collection queries received from other nodes within a certain period of time is greater than a predetermined upper limit, A second switching rule for determining switching;
When the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of information collection queries received from other nodes within a certain period of time is smaller than the predetermined lower limit value A third switching rule for determining switching;
When the number of nodes in the information collection function ON state estimated based on the number of nodes in which the information collection function is OFF transmits individual information inquiries and receives responses from other nodes is smaller than a predetermined lower limit value, A fourth switching rule for determining switching by itself;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the determination is performed in accordance with one or more switching rules. Each of the information processing devices as the plurality of nodes constituting the network
Having information collection stop means operable only when the information collection function is ON;
The determination means includes
When a predetermined time elapses after the node in which the information collection function is turned on, the node executes the determination according to the fifth switching rule for determining switching by itself.
The information collection stop means includes
Based on the determination according to the fifth switching rule, when performing switching by the switching means, it transmits its own information collection stop notification to other nodes that satisfy a predetermined condition,
The determination means further includes
14. The information processing according to claim 12, wherein a node in an information collection function OFF state executes determination according to a sixth switching rule for determining switching by itself when receiving the information collection stop notification. apparatus. The fifth switching rule is:
When a node in the information collection function ON state terminates connection to the network, or when it determines that it is inappropriate to maintain the information collection function ON state, it shall determine switching. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14.

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