JP4182434B2 - Information processing apparatus and method, recording medium, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus and method, a recording medium, and a program, and more particularly, to an information processing apparatus and method, a recording medium, and a program that can communicate with other information processing apparatuses via a network.

  In recent years, small and lightweight memory cards using flash memory have become widespread as storage media for portable electronic devices such as digital cameras, notebook computers, portable music players, portable information terminals, and mobile phones. Typical memory card standards include Memory Stick ™, CompactFlash ™, SmartMedia ™, SD Memory Card ™, Multimedia Card ™, xD-Picture Card ) (Trademark).

  A general configuration example of the memory card 102 used in the digital still camera 101 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The memory card 102 includes a memory card interface 121, a memory controller 122, and a storage 123.

  The digital still camera 101 individually distinguishes the storage command and the image data 131-1 to 131-n (hereinafter, image data 131-1 to 131-n) captured by the digital still camera 101 via the memory card interface 121. If there is no need to do this, it is simply referred to as image data 131). The memory controller 122 stores the image data 131 in the storage 123 according to the storage command.

  Also, the digital still camera 101 transmits a read command to the memory controller 122 via the memory card interface 121. In accordance with the read command, the memory controller 122 reads the image data 131 specified by the read command from the storage 123 and transmits it to the digital still camera 101 via the memory card interface 121.

  In addition, based on the stored algorithm, the image data written from the electronic camera is stored after being subjected to image processing such as compression, and when the image data is read out, the image data is decompressed, etc. There has been proposed a digital storage device for an electronic camera that performs the above image processing and supplies it to the electronic camera (for example, Patent Document 1).

  By the way, to transmit the image data 131 captured by the digital still camera 101 to an external information processing apparatus via the network, or conversely, to capture the image data 131 from the external information processing apparatus to the digital still camera 101, For example, there is a method described below.

  As a first method, as shown in FIG. 2, the user operates the digital still camera 101 to store the image data 131 in the memory card 102, and then removes the memory card 102 from the digital still camera 101. Attached to the personal computer 161. Then, the user operates the personal computer 161 to read the image data 131 stored in the memory card 102 to the personal computer 161, and transmits the read image data 131 to an external information processing apparatus via the network 151. To do.

  Further, the user operates the personal computer 161 to receive the image data 131 from the external information processing apparatus via the network 151. Then, the user attaches the memory card 102 to the personal computer 161 and operates the personal computer 161 to store the received image data 131 in the memory card 102. Further, the user removes the memory card 102 from the personal computer 161, attaches it to the digital still camera 101, operates the digital still camera 101, and reads the image data 131 stored in the memory card 102 into the digital still camera 101. Let it come out.

  As a second method, as shown in FIG. 3, the user connects the digital still camera 101 to the personal computer 161 via the cable 171 and operates the digital still camera 101 or the personal computer 161. After the image data 131 stored in the memory card 102 is read out to the personal computer 161, the personal computer 161 is operated and transmitted to an external information processing apparatus via the network 151.

  Further, the user operates the personal computer 161 to receive the image data 131 from the external information processing apparatus via the network 151. Then, the user operates the digital still camera 101 or the personal computer 161 to read the received image data 131 from the personal computer 161 to the digital still camera 101 via the cable 171.

As a third method, as shown in FIG. 4, when the digital still camera 101 can use the network interface 172 having a communication function with the network 151, the user connects the network interface 172 to the digital still camera 101. . Then, the user operates the digital still camera 101 to transmit the image data 131 stored in the memory card 102 to an external information processing apparatus or external information processing via the network interface 172 and the network 151. The image data 131 is received from the apparatus to the digital still camera 101.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 07-282238

  However, the image data 131 captured by the digital still camera 101 is transmitted to the external information processing apparatus via the network 151 or received from the external information processing apparatus via the network 151 by the first method described above. When capturing the image data 131 into the digital still camera 101, the user removes the memory card 102 from the digital still camera 101 and attaches it to the personal computer 161. In addition, there is a problem that the digital still camera 101 and the personal computer 161 have to be operated after being attached to the camera.

  In addition, the image data 131 captured by the digital still camera 101 is transmitted to the external information processing apparatus via the network 151 or received from the external information processing apparatus via the network 151 by the second method described above. When capturing the image data 131 into the digital still camera 101, the user must operate the digital still camera 101 or the personal computer 161 after connecting the digital still camera 101 and the personal computer 161 with the cable 171. There was a problem that it took.

  Further, the image data 131 captured by the digital still camera 101 is transmitted to the external information processing apparatus via the network 151 or received from the external information processing apparatus via the network 151 by the third method described above. When capturing the image data 131 into the digital still camera 101, the network interface 172 is required, and the digital still camera 101 needs to be configured to be able to use the network interface 172.

  In the invention described in Patent Document 1, the function of transmitting / receiving image data to / from an external information processing apparatus is the same as that of the memory card 102 described above, and an image is transmitted to an external information processing apparatus via a network. In order to transmit data or capture image data from an external information processing apparatus, the same work as in the case of the memory card 102 is required.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and stores data of an electronic device that can use a memory card, and can easily transmit the data to another information processing apparatus via a network. Or data can be easily received from another information processing apparatus.

The information processing apparatus according to the present invention includes a connection unit configured to store a shape of a part attached to an electronic device in a housing conforming to a standard of a storage medium attached to the electronic device, and to connect to the electronic device in accordance with the standard. The first content data transmitted from the electronic device to which the user is attached via the connection means , and the communication means for receiving information related to the first content data , and the use of the electronic device A sensor that detects at least one of the state and the usage environment, user information, information related to the first content data, and a first item that includes items set in the setting information based on the sensor data obtained by the sensor first content data and, storing hand the generated metadata and stores the separated received and generating means for generating, the meta data of the content data If, on the basis of the sending setting data that is set in advance, via the network, it transmits the first content data stored in another information processing apparatus, depending on the setting of the setting information, stored Transmission means for transmitting the existing metadata to another information processing apparatus .

  The image processing device may further include an image processing unit that performs image processing on the first content data that is image data.

The image processing means changes the dimension of the first content data , which is image data, to the dimension set in the setting information, and the transmitting means changes the first content data after the change of the dimension to another information processing apparatus. Can be sent to .

The image processing means further converts the internal information of the information processing apparatus including at least one of transmission setting data, user information and setting information into a method of image data corresponding to the electronic device , and the communication means The internal information after conversion into the system can be transmitted to the electronic device .

The image processing means may correct the first content data, which is image data, based on at least one of the movement and the installation state of the electronic device, which is a photographing apparatus, detected based on the sensor data. it can.

  A receiving unit that receives second content data from another information processing apparatus via a network may be further provided, and the storage unit may further store the second content data.

The transmission means further transmits the sensor data to another information processing apparatus via the network, and the reception means further receives and generates related information related to the sensor data from the other information processing apparatus via the network. The means may further generate metadata based on the related information.

In the information processing method of the present invention, the shape of the part attached to the electronic device is stored in a housing conforming to the standard of the storage medium attached to the electronic device, and connecting means for connecting to the electronic device conforming to the standard ; An information processing apparatus having a sensor is compliant with the standard, receives content data transmitted from an electronic device in which the information processing apparatus is mounted via a connection unit , and information about the content data. Content data including items set in the setting information is detected based on user information, information on content data, and sensor data obtained by detecting at least one of the usage state and usage environment of the electronic device. It generates metadata, and content data received, the generated metadata separated and stored, is set in advance Based on the signal setting data, via the network, and transmits the content data stored in another information processing apparatus, depending on the setting of the setting information, the metadata stored in the other information processing apparatus It is characterized by transmitting .

The program recorded on the recording medium of the present invention is stored in a casing that conforms to the standard of the storage medium that is mounted on the electronic device, and the shape of the portion that is mounted on the electronic device is connected to the electronic device based on the standard. and connection means for, in a computer of an information processing apparatus having a sensor for detecting at least one of use conditions and use environments of the electronic device, based on a standard, electronic information processing device is mounted through the connecting means Items that are set in the setting information based on user information, information on content data, and sensor data obtained by the sensor by controlling reception of content data transmitted from the device and information on the content data It generates metadata of content data including the content data received, the generated metadata to separate Controlled so as to store, on the basis of the sending setting data that is set in advance, via the network, and transmits the content data stored in another information processing apparatus, depending on the setting of the setting information, stored It is characterized in that a process including a step of controlling to transmit the metadata that has been processed to another information processing apparatus is executed .

Program of the present invention includes a connection means for the shape of the site to be attached to the electronic apparatus stored in the housing that compliant storage medium mounted to the electronic device, connected to the electronic apparatus conforming to the standard, the electronic device Content transmitted from an electronic device in which an information processing apparatus is mounted via a connection unit in accordance with a standard to a computer of an information processing apparatus having a sensor that detects at least one of the usage state and usage environment Content and metadata of content data including items set in the setting information based on user information, information on content data, and sensor data obtained by the sensor. generates a content data received, the generated metadata and controls to and stored separated, Based on the transmission setting data being fit set, via the network, and transmits the content data stored in another information processing apparatus, other metadata in accordance with the setting of the setting information, it is stored It is characterized by executing a process including a step of controlling to transmit to the information processing apparatus .

In the information processing apparatus, the information processing method, the recording medium, and the program according to the present invention, the content data and the content transmitted from the electronic device in which the information processing apparatus is mounted via the connection unit conforming to the standard Information related to the data is received, and at least one of the usage state and usage environment of the electronic device is detected by the sensor. Based on the user information, the information related to the content data, and the sensor data obtained by the sensor, the setting information is obtained. Metadata of content data including the set items is generated, the received content data and the generated metadata are stored separately, and are transmitted via the network based on the preset transmission setting data. The stored content data is transmitted to another information processing device Together, depending on the setting of the setting information, meta-data stored is transmitted to the other information processing apparatus.

As described above, according to the information processing apparatus, the information processing method, the program recorded on the recording medium, and the program of the present invention, the shape of the part to be attached to the electronic device of the casing in which the information processing apparatus is stored It is possible to store content data of an electronic device that can be loaded with a storage medium that conforms to a standard that conforms to Further, according to the information processing apparatus, the information processing method, the program recorded on the recording medium, and the program of the present invention, the content data of the electronic device can be easily transmitted to another information processing apparatus.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. The correspondence between the invention described in this specification and the embodiments is illustrated as follows. Although this description is described in this specification, there is an embodiment which is not described here as corresponding to the invention. It does not mean that it does not correspond to. Conversely, even if an embodiment is described herein as corresponding to an invention, that means that the embodiment does not correspond to an invention other than the invention. Absent.

  Further, this description does not mean that all the inventions described in this specification are claimed. In other words, this description is an invention described in the present specification and is not claimed in this application, that is, a future divisional application, appearing by amendment, or added. It does not deny the existence of the invention.

According to the present invention, an information processing apparatus is provided. In this information processing apparatus (for example, the information processing apparatus 201 in FIG. 6), the shape (for example, the shape of the connection portion 211 in FIG. 5) of a part attached to the electronic device (for example, the digital still camera 101 in FIG. 6) is the same. Connection means (for example, connection unit 211 in FIG. 5) that is stored in a housing that conforms to the standard of a storage medium (for example, a memory card) that is mounted on the electronic device, and that conforms to the standard and connects to the electronic device. And the first content data (for example, image data 231 in FIG. 6) transmitted from the electronic device to which the device is attached via the connection means in conformity with the standard , and the first Detecting at least one of communication means (for example, memory card interface 221 in FIG. 6) for receiving information related to content data, and the usage state and usage environment of the electronic device Sensor (for example, GPS sensor 521 to temperature sensor 524 in FIG. 36), user information (for example, user information 332 in FIG. 8), information on the first content data, and sensor data obtained by the sensor Based on the generation means (for example, metadata 351 in FIG. 8) for generating metadata of the first content data including items set in setting information (for example, operation setting information 333 in FIG. 8) for example, a metadata generating unit 305) of FIG. 7, with the first content data received, storage means and generated the metadata and storing separated (e.g., storage 223 in FIG. 6), previously sending setting data that is set (e.g., network configuration information 331 of FIG. 8) based on a network (e.g., networks in FIG. 6 Via the click 251), the first content data stored other information processing apparatus (e.g., mail server 271 in FIG. 6, the file server 272 or transmits the media channel server 273), the setting depending on the setting information, and a transmission means for the metadata stored transmitted to the other information processing apparatus (e.g., transmission control unit 302 of FIG. 7).

  The information processing apparatus may further include image processing means (for example, the image processing unit 304 in FIG. 7) that performs image processing on the first content data that is image data.

In this information processing apparatus, the electronic device further stores internal information (for example, internal information 322 in FIG. 8) of the information processing apparatus including at least one of the transmission setting data, the user information, and the setting information . The image data is converted into a corresponding image data format, and the communication unit can transmit the internal information after the conversion to the image data format to the electronic device .

  The information processing apparatus further includes receiving means (for example, the reception control unit 303 in FIG. 7) that receives second content data (for example, received data) from the other information processing apparatus via the network. The storage means can further store the second content data.

In this information processing apparatus, the transmission means further transmits the sensor data to the other information processing apparatus via the network, and the reception means transmits the other information processing apparatus via the network. Further, related information (for example, related information) related to the sensor data is further received, and the generation unit can further generate the metadata based on the related information.

According to the present invention, an information processing method is provided. In this information processing method, the shape of a part (for example, the shape of the connecting portion 211 in FIG. 5) attached to an electronic device (for example, the digital still camera 101 in FIG. 6) is a storage medium (for example, in the electronic device). , A memory card) that is stored in a housing that conforms to the standard, and that connects to the electronic device conforming to the standard (for example, the connection unit 211 in FIG. 5) and a sensor (for example, the GPS sensor 521 in FIG. 36 ) . To the temperature sensor 524) (for example, the information processing apparatus 201 in FIG. 6) is transmitted from the electronic apparatus in accordance with the standard and equipped with the information processing apparatus via the connection unit. The received content data (for example, image data 231 in FIG. 6) and information related to the content data (for example, step S1 in FIG. 9) are received, and the sensor Thus, at least one of the usage state and usage environment of the electronic device is detected (for example, step S603 in FIG. 37), user information (for example, user information 332 in FIG. 8), information on the content data, and Based on the sensor data obtained by the sensor, the content data metadata (for example, metadata 351 in FIG. 8) including the items set in the setting information (for example, operation setting information 333 in FIG. 8) is generated. (For example, step S610 in FIG. 37), the received content data and the generated metadata are separated and stored (for example, step S602 and step S611 in FIG. 37), and preset transmission is performed. Based on the setting data (for example, the network setting information 331 in FIG. 8), the network (for example, , Via the network 251) in FIG. 6, transmits to the content data stored other information processing apparatus (e.g., mail server 271 in FIG. 6, the file server 272 or the media channel server 273,), the In response to the setting information setting, the stored metadata is transmitted to the other information processing apparatus (for example, step S55 in FIG. 12).

According to the present invention, a program is provided. This program stores a storage medium (for example, a memory) in which the shape of a part (for example, the shape of the connecting portion 211 in FIG. 5) attached to an electronic device (for example, the digital still camera 101 in FIG. 6) is attached to the electronic device. A connection unit (for example, the connection unit 211 in FIG. 5) that is stored in a housing that conforms to the standard of the card and connects to the electronic device that conforms to the standard, and at least the usage state and the usage environment of the electronic device A computer of an information processing apparatus (for example, the information processing apparatus 201 in FIG. 6 ) having a sensor for detecting one (for example, the GPS sensor 521 to the temperature sensor 524 in FIG. 36 ) conforms to the standard and the connection means is connected to the computer. content data to which the information processing apparatus is transmitted from the electronic apparatus that is mounted over (e.g., image data 231 of FIG. 6), and the co Control of reception of information on content data (for example, step S1 in FIG. 9), based on user information (for example, user information 332 in FIG. 8), information on the content data, and sensor data obtained by the sensor. Then, the content data metadata (for example, metadata 351 in FIG. 8) including the items set in the setting information (for example, operation setting information 333 in FIG. 8) is generated (for example, step S610 in FIG. 37). ), The received content data and the generated metadata are controlled to be stored separately (for example, step S602 and step S611 in FIG. 37), and preset transmission setting data (for example, Based on the network setting information 331 in FIG. 8, the network (for example, the network in FIG. 6). 51) through, the content data stored other information processing apparatus (e.g., mail server 271 in FIG. 6, the file server 272 or transmits the media channel server 273), the setting of the setting information In response, control is performed to transmit the stored metadata to the other information processing apparatus (for example, step S55 in FIG. 12).

  This program can be recorded on a recording medium (for example, the magnetic disk 751, the optical disk 752, the magneto-optical disk 753, or the semiconductor memory 754 in FIG. 39).

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

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an external configuration example of the information processing apparatus 201 to which the present invention is applied. The shape of the connection portion 211 and the shape of a connection terminal (not shown) conform to the Memory Stick (trademark) standard, and the information processing apparatus 201 is provided in an electronic device that can use the Memory Stick (trademark). It can be installed by inserting it into the slot (connection terminal) of the Memory Stick (trademark) in the direction of the arrow in the figure. At the end of the information processing apparatus 201 opposite to the side that is inserted into the slot of the Memory Stick (trademark), a protruding portion 212 that protrudes in a rectangular parallelepiped shape above the connection portion 211 is provided. Inside the protrusion 212, an antenna for performing wireless communication with an external network or an information processing apparatus is incorporated. In addition, components such as a substrate are incorporated in the connection portion 211 and the projection portion 212.

  5 shows an example in which the shape of the connection portion 211 and the shape of the connection terminal (not shown) conform to the Memory Stick (trademark) standard. Of course, a compact flash (registered trademark) other than the Memory Stick (trademark) is shown. ), SmartMedia (trademark), SD (Secure Digital) memory card (trademark), Multimedia card (trademark), xD-Picture Card (trademark), etc. Then, these memory cards may be mounted in slots of usable electronic devices. In the following, the configuration and processing of the information processing apparatus 201 will be described assuming that the configuration and processing of a general memory card are not limited to the Memory Stick (trademark).

  6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an information processing apparatus 201 to which the present invention is applied, a digital still camera 101 to which the information processing apparatus 201 is attached, a network to which the information processing apparatus 201 is connected, and other information. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a processing apparatus.

  The information processing apparatus 201 includes a memory card interface 221, a processor 222, a storage 223, a network interface 224, and a working memory 225.

  The memory card interface 221 receives various commands for instructing processing of the information processing apparatus 201 from the electronic device such as the digital still camera 101 to which the information processing apparatus 201 is attached, and an image to be stored in the storage 223. Data 231-1 to 231-n (hereinafter referred to simply as image data 231 if the image data 231-1 to 231-n need not be individually distinguished) are received and supplied to the processor 222. . When the memory card interface 221 is instructed to read data by a command from an electronic device in which the information processing apparatus 201 is mounted, the memory card interface 221 acquires specified data from the storage 223 via the processor 222 and Send to electronic device.

  At this time, transmission / reception of commands and data to / from the electronic device in which the information processing apparatus 201 is mounted is a standard for the memory card 102 that is used by being mounted in a slot (connection terminal) of the electronic device in which the information processing apparatus 201 is mounted. The electronic device that is executed in conformity with the information processing apparatus 201 and can receive and transmit commands and data to and from the information processing apparatus 201 by the same processing as that of the memory card 102.

  In addition, the memory card interface 221 acquires power necessary for the information processing apparatus 201 to operate from an electronic device in which the information processing apparatus 201 is mounted, and supplies the power to each unit of the information processing apparatus 201.

  As will be described later with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, the processor 222 executes the program from the electronic device to which the information processing apparatus 201 is mounted via the memory card interface 221. A command or data for instructing processing is received, and the processing of each unit of the information processing apparatus 201 is controlled using the working memory 225 based on the command or data.

  In addition, the processor 222 receives data received from the electronic device in which the information processing apparatus 201 is mounted via the memory card interface 221, and data received from other information processing apparatuses via the network 251 and the network interface 224. Store in the storage 223. Further, the processor 222 reads out data stored in the storage 223 and supplies the data to each unit of the information processing apparatus 201.

  The storage 223 is composed of a non-volatile memory, for example, a flash memory. The storage 223 includes an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), MRAM (Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory), FeRAM (Ferroelectric Random Access Memory, ferroelectric memory), OUM (Ovonic Unified Memory) or the like. The storage 223 may be configured by a plurality of memory devices.

  The network interface 224 is connected to the network 251 by wireless communication, and a mail server 271, a file server 272, a media channel server 273, clients 274-1 to 274-x (hereinafter referred to as a client 274-) connected to the network 251. When it is not necessary to distinguish 1 to 274-x individually, communication is performed with another information processing apparatus such as a client 274).

  For communication of the network interface 224, wireless LAN (Local Area Network) standard defined by IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers) 802.11 (802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, etc.), W-CDMA (Wideband Code Division) Mobile phones such as Multiple Access), PIAFS (Personal Handyphone System Internet Access Forum Standard), communication standards for PHS (Personal Handyphone System), and standards such as Bluetooth (trademark) can be applied.

  In addition, the communication method of the network interface 224 is not limited to wireless communication, and the information processing apparatus 201 is provided with a connection terminal to which a connection cable such as a twisted pair cable, a coaxial cable, and an optical fiber cable can be connected. By applying a standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark), it may be connected to the network 251 by wired communication.

  Further, the network interface 224 may be connected to the network 251 by a plurality of communication methods so that an appropriate communication method can be selected according to the use environment. For example, when the connection cable is connected to the information processing apparatus 201 so that the network interface 224 can communicate with the network 251 via Ethernet (registered trademark) and wireless LAN, the communication cost is higher than the wireless LAN and the communication cost is low. When communication is performed using Ethernet (registered trademark) and the communication cable is not connected, communication can be performed using a wireless LAN.

  Further, the network interface 224 may directly communicate with another information processing apparatus without going through the network 251. For example, by applying wireless communication based on the Bluetooth (trademark) standard to the communication method, the information processing apparatus 201 can communicate with another information processing apparatus capable of communicating by wireless communication based on the Bluetooth (trademark) standard, It is possible to communicate directly without going through H.251.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of functions implemented by the processor 222 that executes a predetermined program. When the processor 222 executes the program, an IO (Input / Output) control unit 301, a transmission control unit 302, a reception control unit 303, an image processing unit 304, and a metadata generation unit 305 are realized.

  The IO control unit 301 is connected to the network 251 via the memory card interface 221, data received from the electronic device in which the information processing apparatus 201 is mounted, and the network interface 224 and the reception control unit 303. Received data received from another information processing apparatus is stored in the storage 223. The IO control unit 301 reads data stored in the storage 223 and supplies the data to each unit of the processor 222 and the memory card interface 221. Further, the IO control unit 301 deletes data stored in the storage 223 or moves it to another folder.

  The transmission control unit 302 acquires data to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus such as a server from the storage 223 via the IO control unit 301, generates transmission data to be transmitted to the information processing apparatus of the transmission destination, The network interface 224 is controlled to cause the generated transmission data to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251.

  The reception control unit 303 receives data from another information processing apparatus such as a server connected to the network 251 via the network 251 and the network interface 224 and stores the data in the storage 223 via the IO control unit 301. .

  The image processing unit 304 performs image processing such as image correction on the image data 231 stored in the storage 223, and stores the image data 231 subjected to the image processing in the storage 223 via the IO control unit 301. , Supplied to the transmission control unit 302. Further, the image processing unit 304 converts the internal information 322 of the information processing apparatus 201 stored in the storage 223, which will be described later with reference to FIG. 8, into the image data 231 format, and via the IO control unit 301, Store in the storage 223.

  The metadata generation unit 305 performs image processing described later with reference to FIG. 8 based on information related to the image data 231 included in the stored command, user information 332 and operation setting information 333 described later with reference to FIG. Metadata 351 of the data 231 is generated and stored in the storage 223 via the IO control unit 301.

  Each unit of the processor 222 excluding the IO control unit 301 can read and write the internal information 322 (FIG. 8) stored in the storage 223 without using the IO control unit 301.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of the configuration of data stored in the storage 223 when the information processing apparatus 201 is used by being attached to the digital still camera 101. In the storage 223, a program 321, internal information 322, image data 231-1 to 231-n, metadata 351-1 to metadata 351-n (hereinafter, metadata 351-1 to 351-n are individually distinguished. If it is not necessary, it is simply referred to as metadata 351).

  The program 321 is read by the processor 222 when the information processing apparatus 201 executes processing, and the processor 222 executes processing based on the program 321. That is, when the processor 222 loads the program 321 and executes the program 321, various functions shown in FIG. 7 are executed.

  The internal information 322 includes network setting information 331, user information 332, and operation setting information 333.

  The network setting information 331 includes information necessary for the information processing apparatus 201 to communicate with the network 251 such as an IP (Internet Protocol) address of the information processing apparatus 201, a gateway IP address, a subnet mask, and an IP address of a domain name server. Including. When the information processing apparatus 201 is in an environment where a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server can be used, the IP address of the information processing apparatus 201 is automatically allocated from the DHCP server.

  The network setting information 331 includes the IP address, FQDN (Fully Qualified Domain Name), URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of other information processing apparatuses that communicate via the network 251, the e-mail transmission destination address, and the like. Including user ID and password required for communication with other information processing devices.

  The user information 332 includes a profile of a user who uses the information processing apparatus 201, for example, a user name, a nickname, and an address.

  The operation setting information 333 includes, for example, a setting as to whether or not the image data 231 received from the digital still camera 101 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251 and an image transmitted to the other information processing apparatus. This includes setting information necessary when the information processing apparatus 201 executes processing, such as setting whether to delete the data 231 from the storage 223.

  The metadata 351-1 to 351-n is data in which information about each of the image data 231-1 to 231-n is recorded, and is generated by the metadata generation unit 305. For example, each of the metadata 351-1 to 351-n is set when each of the image data 231-1 to 231-n is shot by the digital still camera 101, such as the shooting date and time, the title of the image, and a keyword. And data set by user information 332 such as a photographer's name.

  The metadata 351 may be stored in the same file as the image data 231 or may be stored as a separate file. For example, when the image data 231 and the metadata 351 are stored in the same file, the metadata 351 is converted into the image data 231 by applying a method defined in Exif (Exchangeable Image File Format) (trademark) to the image data 231. Can be stored in the attached data area. In the following description, it is assumed that the metadata 351 is stored as a separate file from the image data 231.

  The image data 231 and the metadata 351 are stored in either of two folders of folders 341-1 and 341-2 (hereinafter simply referred to as a folder 341 when the folders 341-1 and 341-2 need not be individually distinguished). It is remembered. Data other than the image data 231 and metadata 351 not shown is also stored in the folder 341. In the following description, two examples of the folders 341-1 and 341-2 are shown as the number of folders in the storage 223. Of course, the number can be arbitrary.

  The storage 223 is provided with a transmission queue 342. As will be described later with reference to FIGS. 10 and 12, for example, the transmission queue 342 has an image on standby for retransmission that has failed to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus and is waiting to be retransmitted. When the transmission standby time from the time when the image data 231 is stored in the storage 223 to the time when it is transmitted to another information processing apparatus is set in the data 231 or the operation setting information 333, until the transmission standby time elapses. If the file number of the image data 231 waiting for transmission is indexed 352-1 to 352-p (hereinafter, it is not necessary to individually distinguish the indexes 352-1 to 352-p) Simply referred to as an index 352). Therefore, the image data 231 waiting for retransmission or waiting for transmission is identified from the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 by the index 352.

  Hereinafter, the image data 231 is in a retransmission standby state or a transmission standby state, and the index 352 of the image data 231 is registered in the transmission queue 342. The image data 231 is simply registered in the transmission queue 342. On the other hand, the fact that the image data 231 waiting for retransmission or transmission waiting state is canceled and the index 352 of the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342 is deleted, simply to the transmission queue 342. It is expressed that the registration of the image data 231 is deleted.

  Returning to FIG. 6, another information processing apparatus connected to the network 251 to which the information processing apparatus 201 is connected will be described.

  Servers that provide various services, such as a mail server 271, a file server 272, and a media channel server 273, are connected to the network 251. Further, a client 274 that receives services from a server such as a mail server 271, a file server 272, and a media channel server 273 is connected to the network 251 via a network 251 such as a personal personal computer or a mobile phone. When viewed from the network 251, the information processing apparatus 201 is also one of clients connected to the network 251.

  The mail server 271 receives an e-mail transmitted from the information processing apparatus 201 or the client 274 via the network 251 based on an e-mail transmission protocol such as SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol), and receives the received e-mail. Accumulate or forward to another mail server. The information processing apparatus 201 and the client 274 in which a mail address designated as an electronic mail destination is set, based on an electronic mail reception protocol such as POP (Post Office Protocol), via the network 251, the mail server 271. Receive emails stored in

  The file server 272 receives a file transmitted from the information processing apparatus 201 or the client 274 via the network 251 based on a protocol such as FTP (File Transfer Protocol), HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol), or SMTP, accumulate. The information processing apparatus 201 and the client 274 receive files stored in the file server 272 via the network 251 based on protocols such as FTP (File Transfer Protocol), HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol), and POP. The file server 272 can be set so that the stored file can be received from an unspecified number of clients 274, or only the client 274 that satisfies a specific condition can be received.

  The media channel server 273 is a server that receives and accumulates the image data 231 transmitted from the information processing apparatus 201 and the client 274 via the network 251 and provides various services related to the image data 231. .

  For example, the media channel server 273 performs image data 231 satisfying specific conditions based on the shooting date / time, title, keyword, user information, and the like of the image data 231 recorded in the metadata 351 transmitted together with the image data 231. And the grouped image data 231 is handled as a media channel. The information processing apparatus 201 and the client 274 may regularly receive the image data 231 of the designated media channel from the media channel server 273, or may receive a notification notifying that the contents of the media channel have been updated. it can.

  Further, the media channel server 273 can process image data 231 derived from the same image data 231 in association with each other based on the metadata 351. For example, when the user can use only a low-speed communication method, the image data 231 compressed at a high compression rate is transmitted to the media channel server 273 and then the high-speed communication method can be used. Image data 231 or image data 231 compressed at a low compression rate (with a low compression rate) is transmitted to the media channel server 273, the media channel server 273 is configured to receive two pieces of image data 231 based on the metadata 351. Are image data 231 derived from the same image data 231.

  Then, the media channel server 273 may update the previously transmitted image data 231 with the image data 231 transmitted later or store the two image data 231 as they are, as specified by the user. it can. Further, when receiving the image data 231 from the media channel server 273, the user can specify which image data 231 is received.

  Further, the media channel server 273 can store the received image data 231 after converting it into dimensions designated by the user.

  The information processing apparatus 201 and the client 274 can record and instruct the processing instructions and settings of the media channel server 273 described above in the metadata 351 transmitted together with the image data 231.

  Further, the media channel server 273 extracts related information related to the information based on the information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 201 or the client 274, and sends the extracted related information to the information processing apparatus 201 or the client 274. Can be sent back. For example, when the information processing apparatus 201 or the client 274 transmits position information measured using a GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) sensor to the media channel server 273, the media channel server 273 includes the place name of the position, surrounding area information, and the like. The related information is extracted, and the related information is sent back to the client 274.

  The media channel server 273 transmits and receives data based on FTP (File Transfer Protocol), HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol), SMTP, POP, protocols dedicated to the media channel server 273, and the like.

  Next, processing executed by the information processing apparatus 201 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This processing is started when the information processing apparatus 201 is attached to an electronic device that can use the memory card 102 such as the digital still camera 101, and the processor 222 reads the program 321 from the storage 223 and starts the processing. When it is removed from the electronic device, it is terminated. In the following description, it is assumed that the information processing apparatus 201 is attached to the digital still camera 101 unless otherwise specified.

  In step S <b> 1, the memory card interface 221 of the information processing apparatus 201 determines whether a storage command has been received from the digital still camera 101. The storage command is an image captured from the digital still camera 101 when the user captures an image with the digital still camera 101 or when the user operates the digital still camera 101 to store the image data 231 in the information processing apparatus 201. The image data 231 is transmitted. The storage command is also transmitted when the user operates the digital still camera 101 to move the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 to another folder 341. If it is determined that a store command has been received, the process proceeds to step S2.

  In step S2, data storage processing is executed. Details of the data storage process will be described later with reference to FIG. 11, but by this process, the image data 231 transmitted from the digital still camera 101 is stored in the storage 223 or the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 is stored. Or moved to another folder 341.

  In step S <b> 3, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether the transmission setting is on based on the operation setting information 333. The transmission setting is a setting as to whether or not the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus. If it is determined that the transmission setting is on, the process proceeds to step S4.

  In step S <b> 4, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether or not a transmission standby time is set in the operation setting information 333. The transmission standby time is a standby time from when the image data 231 is stored in the storage 223 until it is transmitted to another information processing apparatus. When it is determined that the transmission standby time is not set, that is, the image If the data 231 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus as soon as the data 231 is stored in the storage 223, the process proceeds to step S5.

  In step S5, a data transmission process is executed. The details of the data transmission process will be described later with reference to FIG. 12. With this process, the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 in the process of step S2 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251. The Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S7.

  When it is determined in step S4 that the transmission standby time is set, that is, when the image data 231 is stored in the storage 223 and is transmitted to another information processing apparatus after the transmission standby time has elapsed, In step S6, the IO control unit 301 registers the image data 231 in the transmission queue 342. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S7.

  If it is determined in step S3 that the transmission setting is OFF, the processes in steps S4 to S6 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S7. That is, the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 is not transmitted to other information processing apparatuses.

  If it is determined in step S1 that the storage command has not been received, the processes in steps S2 to S6 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S7.

  In step S <b> 7, the memory card interface 221 determines whether a delete command has been received from the digital still camera 101. When the user operates the digital still camera 101 to delete the image data 231 stored in the information processing apparatus 201, a delete command for instructing the user to delete the image data 231 specified by the user is issued from the digital still camera 101. Sent. If it is determined that a delete command has been received, the process proceeds to step S8.

  In step S8, data deletion processing is executed. The details of the data deletion process will be described later with reference to FIG. 15. With this process, the image data 231 specified by the deletion command is deleted from the storage 223, or the image data 231 is registered in the transmission queue 342. Or deleted.

  If it is determined in step S7 that the delete command has not been received, the process of step S8 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S9.

  In step S <b> 9, the memory card interface 221 determines whether a read command has been received from the digital still camera 101. When the user operates the digital still camera 101 to cause the digital still camera 101 to read the image data 231 stored in the information processing apparatus 201, a read command is transmitted from the digital still camera 101. If it is determined that a read command has been received, the process proceeds to step S10.

  In step S10, data read processing is performed. Details of the data reading process will be described later with reference to FIG. 16, but by this process, image data 231 designated by the user is read from the storage 223 and transmitted to the digital still camera 101.

  If it is determined in step S9 that a read command has not been received, the process of step S10 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S11.

  In step S11, the memory card interface 221 determines whether a setting command has been received. For example, when the user attaches the information processing apparatus 201 to a personal computer in which software for setting the information processing apparatus 201 is installed and operates the personal computer to set the internal information 322 of the information processing apparatus 201 A setting command including the set internal information 322 is transmitted from the personal computer. If it is determined that a setting command has been received, the process proceeds to step S12.

  Note that the setting function of the information processing apparatus 201 may be mounted on the digital still camera 101 so that the user operates the digital still camera 101 to set the internal information 322 of the information processing apparatus 201.

  In step S12, a setting process is executed. Although details of the setting process will be described with reference to FIG. 17, the internal information 322 stored in the storage 223 is updated by this process.

  If it is determined in step S11 that a setting command has not been received, the process of step S12 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S13.

  In step S13, as in the process of step S3, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether or not the transmission setting is on. If it is determined that the transmission setting is ON, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S <b> 14, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the image data 231 is registered in the transmission queue 342. If it is determined that the image data 231 is registered in the transmission queue 342, that is, if there is image data 231 waiting for retransmission or waiting for transmission, the process proceeds to step S15.

  In step S15, as in the process of step S4, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether or not a transmission standby time is set. If it is determined that the transmission standby setting is not set, that is, if the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342 is only the image data 231 waiting for retransmission, the process proceeds to step S16.

  In step S16, a transmission queue data transmission process is executed. The details of the transmission queue data transmission processing will be described later with reference to FIG. 18, but by this processing, image data 231 waiting for retransmission registered in the transmission queue 342 is transmitted to the other information via the network 251. It is transmitted to the processing device. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S18.

  If it is determined in step S15 that the transmission standby time is set, the process proceeds to step S17, and a transmission standby data transmission process is executed. The details of the transmission standby data transmission process will be described later with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20, but the image data 231 in the transmission standby and retransmission standby registered in the transmission queue 342 is converted into the network 251 by this process. To other information processing apparatuses. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S18.

  In step S14, if the image data 231 is not registered in the transmission queue 342, that is, if there is no image data 231 waiting for retransmission and waiting for transmission, the processing in steps S15 to S17 is skipped, and the processing is performed in step S18. Proceed to

  If it is determined in step S13 that the transmission setting is OFF, the processes in steps S14 to S17 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S18.

  In step S <b> 18, the reception control unit 303 determines whether the reception setting is on based on the operation setting information 333. The reception setting is a setting as to whether or not data is automatically received from another information processing apparatus via the network 251. If it is determined that the reception setting is on, the process proceeds to step S19. .

  In step S19, data reception processing is performed. Details of the data reception process will be described later with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22, but data is received from another information processing apparatus via the network 251 by this process. Thereafter, the process returns to step S1, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  If it is determined in step S18 that the reception setting is OFF, the process in step S19 is skipped, the process returns to step S1, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  Next, the details of the data storage process in step S2 of FIG. 9 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S <b> 31, the IO control unit 301 acquires a storage command from the memory card interface 221, and determines whether the storage command is a command for storing the image data 231 in the storage 223. If it is determined that the command is to store the image data 231 in the storage 223, the process proceeds to step S32.

  In step S32, the IO control unit 301 acquires the image data 231 received from the digital still camera 101 from the memory card interface 221, and stores the image data 231 in the folder 341 in the storage 223 designated by the store command. . When the folder 341 for storing the image data 231 is not specified by the storage command, the IO control unit 301 stores the image data 231 in the default folder 341 set in the operation setting information 333.

  In step S <b> 33, the metadata generation unit 305 generates metadata 351 of the image data 231 based on the storage command, the user information 332, and the operation setting information 333. The operation setting information 333 includes settings related to items to be set in the metadata 351, and metadata 351 including a user name, an image title, a keyword for searching for image data, and the like based on these settings. Is generated.

  In step S34, the IO control unit 301 acquires the metadata 351 generated by the process of step S33 from the metadata generation unit 305, stores it in the storage 223, and the data storage process ends. At this time, the IO control unit 301 selects, based on the operation setting information 333, whether the metadata 351 is stored as a separate file from the image data 231 or stored in the same file. When storing the metadata 351 as another file, the IO control unit 301 stores the metadata 351 in the folder 341 in the storage 223 where the image data 231 is stored.

  When storing the metadata 351 in the same file as the image data 231, the IO control unit 301 reads the image data 231 from the storage 223, stores the metadata 351 in the image data 231, and then stores the metadata 351 in the folder 341. The original image data 231 is updated with the image data 231 storing the metadata 351.

  If it is determined in step S31 that the storage command is not an instruction to store the image data 231 in the storage 223, that is, if the instruction is to move the image data 231 specified by the storage command to the specified folder 341, processing is performed. Advances to step S35.

  In step S35, the IO control unit 301 moves the image data 231 and metadata 351 specified by the storage command to the specified folder 341, and the data storage process ends.

  Through the above data storage processing, the image data 231 transmitted from the digital still camera 101 can be stored in the storage 223 as with the memory card 102. Further, the metadata 351 of the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 can be generated, or the image data 231 can be moved to another folder 341.

  Next, the details of the data transmission process executed in step S5 of FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S51, the network interface 224 connects to the network 251 set in the network setting information 331 based on the network setting information 331. At this time, when the network interface 224 can be connected to the network 251 by a plurality of communication methods, the network interface 224 selects an appropriate communication method according to the use environment and connects to the network 251.

  In step S52, the network interface 224 determines whether or not the connection with the network 251 has been successful in the process of step S51. If it is determined that the connection with the network 251 is successful, the process proceeds to step S53.

  In step S53, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether or not all the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 has been processed by the processing in step S2 of FIG. If it is determined that all the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 has not been processed, the process proceeds to step S54.

  In step S54, transmission data generation processing is executed. The details of the transmission data generation processing will be described later with reference to FIG. 13. With this processing, the image data 231 is subjected to image processing, or the image data 231 is converted into a data system that is compatible with the other information processing apparatus of the transmission destination. Thus, transmission data to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus is generated.

  In step S55, the transmission control unit 302 controls the network interface 224 to transmit the transmission data generated in the process of step S54 to other information processing apparatuses via the network 251.

  For example, when transmitting the transmission data as an e-mail to the mail server 271, the transmission control unit 302 transmits the transmission data based on a transmission protocol for e-mail such as SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol). At this time, the mail address set in the network setting information 331 is set as the destination of the e-mail.

  For example, when transmitting transmission data to the file server 272 connected to the network 251, the transmission control unit 302 uses a protocol supported by the file server 272 such as FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol). The transmission data is transmitted based on the above.

  Further, for example, when transmitting transmission data to the media channel server 273 connected to the network 251, the transmission control unit 302 causes the transmission data to be transmitted based on a protocol supported by the media channel server 273.

  At this time, for example, a plurality of servers are set as transmission destinations in the network setting information 331, and the transmission control unit 302 transmits transmission data to a plurality of servers at once, or depending on the contents of the transmission data, A server may be selected. Further, the user may be able to operate the digital still camera 101 and specify a destination server by a command or the like.

  In step S56, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether transmission of transmission data is successful in the process of step S55. If it is determined that the transmission of the transmission data is successful, the process proceeds to step S57.

  In step S57, post-data transmission processing is executed. Details of the data transmission post-processing will be described later with reference to FIG. 14, but the image data 231 transmitted to another information processing apparatus is deleted by this processing.

  Thereafter, the process returns to step S53, until it is determined in step S53 that all image data 231 stored in the storage 223 has been processed, or until it is determined in step S56 that transmission of transmission data has failed. Steps S53 to S57 are repeated. That is, the transmission of the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 to the other information processing apparatus in the process of step S2 of FIG. 9 just before is repeated.

  If it is determined in step S53 that all the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 has been processed, that is, all the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 in step S2 of FIG. If the information has been transmitted to the information processing apparatus, the process proceeds to step S58.

  In step S58, the network interface 224 disconnects from the network 251 and the data transmission process ends.

  If it is determined in step S56 that transmission of the transmission data has failed, for example, if the connection with the network 251 is disconnected during transmission or a response from the server in communication is not returned, the transmission processing is performed. The process is stopped, and the process proceeds to step S59.

  In step S59, the network interface 224 disconnects the connection with the network 251 when the connection with the network 251 is continued.

  In step S <b> 60, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the retransmission setting is on based on the operation setting information 333. The retransmission setting is a setting as to whether or not to retransmit transmission data (image data 231) for which transmission to another information processing apparatus has failed. If it is determined that the retransmission setting is on, the process proceeds to step S61. move on.

  In step S61, the IO control unit 301 cancels the transmission process of the untransmitted image data 231, that is, the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 in the process of step S2 of FIG. The image data 231 that has not been transmitted to the information processing apparatus is registered in the transmission queue 342, and the data transmission process ends.

  If it is determined in step S60 that the retransmission setting is off, the process proceeds to step S62, the IO control unit 301 sets the untransmitted image data 231 to a transmission failure state, and the data transmission process ends. Specifically, the IO control unit 301 acquires the metadata 351 of the untransmitted image data 231 and records information indicating transmission failure in the metadata 351. That is, among the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 in the immediately preceding step S2 of FIG. 9, the image data 231 that has not been transmitted in the current data transmission process is not transmitted to other information processing apparatuses.

  If it is determined in step S52 that the connection with the network 251 has failed, the process proceeds to step S60, the processes in steps S60 to S62 described above are executed, and the data transmission process ends.

  Through the above data transmission process, the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 is automatically transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251.

  Next, the details of the transmission data generation process in step S54 of FIG. 12 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S <b> 81, the IO control unit 301 reads image data 231 to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus from the storage 223 to the working memory 225.

  In step S <b> 82, the image processing unit 304 determines whether the setting for image processing of the image data 231 to be transmitted is on based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the setting for image processing is ON, the process proceeds to step S83.

  In step S <b> 83, the image processing unit 304 performs image processing on the image data 231 read to the working memory 225. The operation setting information 333 includes settings relating to image processing such as the type of image processing to be performed such as color correction and noise removal, and the type of image processing algorithm to be applied. The image processing unit 304 includes the operation setting information 333. Based on this, the image data 231 is subjected to image processing for improving the image quality of the image data 231.

  As a result, image processing such as quality improvement is performed on the image data 231 photographed by the digital still camera 101 without performing any special measures on the digital still camera 101.

  In step S83, instead of image processing the image data 231 at the time of transmission, the image data 231 may be image processed when the image data 231 is stored in the storage 223 in step S32 of FIG. Good.

  If it is determined in step S82 that the setting for image processing is OFF, the process of step S83 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S84.

  In step S <b> 84, the image processing unit 304 determines whether the size of the image data 231 at the time of transmission to another information processing apparatus is set in the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the size of the image data 231 at the time of transmission is set, the process proceeds to step S85.

  In step S85, the image processing unit 304 changes the size of the image data 231 on the working memory 225 based on the operation setting information 333. For example, the image processing unit 304 enlarges or reduces the size of the image data 231 so that the size set in the operation setting information 333 is obtained, or an image having a size specified from the image data 231 is displayed. Cut it out. As a result, the size of the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 is changed to a size suitable for the destination server. When the dimensions of the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 are not uniform, the dimensions of the image data 231 transmitted to other information processing apparatuses are unified.

  If it is determined in step S84 that the size of the image data 231 at the time of transmission is not set, the process of step S85 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S86.

  In step S86, the image processing unit 304 determines whether or not the setting for changing the data size of the image data 231 at the time of transmission to another information processing apparatus is on based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the setting for changing the data size of the image data 231 is ON at the time of transmission, the process proceeds to step S87.

  In step S <b> 87, the image processing unit 304 changes the data size of the image data 231 on the working memory 225 based on the operation setting information 333. For example, when the upper limit value of the data size of the image data 231 is set in the operation setting information 333, the image processing unit 304 adjusts the compression rate so that the data size of the image data 231 falls within the upper limit value. Thus, the image data 231 is compressed or the size of the image is reduced. For example, when the compression rate of the image data 231 is set in the operation setting information 333, the image processing unit 304 compresses the image data 231 based on the set compression rate.

  Further, for example, when the network interface 224 can communicate with the network 251 by a plurality of communication methods, the upper limit value of the data size of the image data 231 is changed or the compression rate of the image data 231 is changed based on the selected communication method. Or may be changed. As a result, the data size of the image data 231 to be transmitted can be adjusted according to the communication speed and communication cost that differ depending on the respective communication methods.

  If it is determined in step S86 that the setting for changing the data size of the image data 231 is off at the time of transmission, the process of step S87 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S88.

  In step S88, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether the setting for transmitting the metadata 351 together with the image data 231 is ON based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the setting for transmitting the metadata 351 is ON, the process proceeds to step S89.

  In step S89, the transmission control unit 302 acquires the metadata 351 of the image data 231 via the IO control unit 301, and the image data 231 on the working memory 225 and the acquired metadata 351 are transmitted to other destinations. The transmission data converted into the data format supported by the information processing apparatus is generated, and the transmission data generation process ends.

  For example, when transmitting the image data 231 and the metadata 351 to the mail server 271, the transmission control unit 302 is based on specifications defined by RFC (Request For Comment) 822 or specifications such as MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extension). In the header part, necessary information such as From (source email address), To (destination email address), Subject (email title) is set, and image data 231 and metadata 351 are attached as an attached file. The generated e-mail message is generated as transmission data.

  Further, for example, when transmitting the image data 231 and the metadata 351 to the media channel server 273, the transmission control unit 302 performs meta information on information used in the media channel server 273, processing contents and settings of the media channel server 273, and the like. It adds to the data 351. Then, the transmission control unit 302 converts the image data 231 and the metadata 351 into a data method corresponding to the media channel server 273, and generates transmission data.

  If it is determined in step S88 that the setting for transmitting the metadata 351 is off, the process proceeds to step S90. In step S90, the transmission control unit 302 stores the metadata on the working memory 225 in the same manner as in step S89. The transmission data generated by converting the image data 231 into the data format supported by the other information processing apparatus of the transmission destination is generated, and the transmission data generation process ends.

  Next, details of the data transmission post-processing executed in step S57 of FIG. 12 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S <b> 101, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the image data 231 transmitted in step S <b> 55 of FIG. 12 is registered in the transmission queue 342. If it is determined that the transmitted image data 231 is registered in the transmission queue 342, the process proceeds to step S102.

  In step S <b> 102, the IO control unit 301 deletes the registration of the transmitted image data 231 from the transmission queue 342.

  If it is determined in step S101 that the transmitted image data 231 is not registered in the transmission queue 342, the process of step S102 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S103.

  In step S <b> 103, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the setting for deleting the transmitted image data 231 is on based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the setting for deleting the transmitted image data 231 is OFF, that is, if the setting is made to leave the transmitted image data 231 in the storage 223 as it is, the processing proceeds to step S104.

  In step S <b> 104, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the setting for image processing of the image data 231 is on based on the operation setting information 333. When it is determined that the setting for image processing is ON, that is, when image data 231 is image-processed in step S83 of FIG. 13 when image data 231 is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S105.

  In step S <b> 105, the IO control unit 301 stores the image processed image data 231 in the folder 341 in the storage 223 in which the image data 231 before image processing is stored.

  In step S106, based on the operation setting information 333, the IO control unit 301 determines whether or not the setting for deleting the image data 231 before image processing is on. If it is determined that the setting for deleting the image data 231 before the image processing is on, the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S107, the IO control unit 301 deletes the image data 231 before image processing stored in the storage 223, and the post-data transmission processing ends. That is, the storage 223 stores only the image data 231 after image processing at the time of transmission to another information processing apparatus, and as a result, the image data 231 before image processing is processed after image processing. Updated with image data 231.

  If it is determined in step S106 that the setting for deleting the image data 231 before image processing is off, the processing in step S107 is skipped, and the post-data transmission processing ends. That is, the storage 223 stores both image data 231 before image processing and after image processing.

  If it is determined in step S104 that the setting for image processing is OFF, the processing in steps S105 to S107 is skipped, and the post-data transmission processing ends.

  If it is determined in step S103 that the setting for deleting the transmitted image data 231 is ON, the process proceeds to step S108, and the IO control unit 301 determines that the image data 231 transmitted in the process of step S55 in FIG. The metadata 351 is deleted from the storage 223, and the post-data transmission processing ends. Thereby, the free capacity of the storage 223 increases, and the capacity of the storage 223 can be used effectively.

  Next, the details of the data deletion process executed in step S8 of FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S121, it is determined whether the image data 231 instructed to be deleted by the delete command is registered in the transmission queue 342. If it is determined that the image data 231 is registered in the transmission queue 342, that is, if the image data 231 instructed to be deleted is waiting for retransmission or waiting for transmission, the process proceeds to step S122.

  In step S122, the IO control unit 301 deletes the registration of the image data 231 instructed to be deleted by the delete command from the transmission queue 342.

  In step S123, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the setting for deleting the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342 is ON based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the setting for deleting the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342 is ON, the process proceeds to step S124.

  In step S124, the IO control unit 301 deletes the image data 231 instructed to be deleted by the delete command and its metadata 351 from the storage 223, and the data deletion process ends.

  If it is determined in step S123 that the setting for deleting the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342 is off, the process of step S124 is skipped, and the image data instructed to be deleted by the delete command. Data deletion processing ends without deleting 231. As a result, the delete command can be used as a transmission stop command. For example, when the transmission standby time is set in the operation setting information 333, the user uses the digital still camera 101 to store the image data before the transmission standby time elapses after the image data 231 is stored in the storage 223. By performing an operation to instruct deletion of the image data 231, transmission of the image data 231 to another information processing apparatus can be stopped without deleting the image data 231 from the storage 223.

  In step S121, if the image data 231 instructed to be deleted by the delete command is not registered in the transmission queue 342, the process proceeds to step S124.

  In step S124, the IO control unit 301 deletes the image data 231 instructed to be deleted by the delete command and its metadata 351 from the storage 223, and the data deletion process ends.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 16, the details of the data reading process in step S10 of FIG. 9 will be described.

  In step S <b> 141, the IO control unit 301 determines whether reading of the internal information 322 of the information processing apparatus 201 is instructed by a read command. As will be described later with reference to FIG. 17, the information processing apparatus 201 can convert the internal information 322 into the format of the image data 231 and store it in the storage 223. Accordingly, the digital still camera 101 can read the image data 231 of the internal information 322 in the same manner as the other image data 231.

  If it is determined in step S141 that reading of internal information 322 is not instructed, that is, if reading of normal image data 231 is instructed, the process proceeds to step S142.

  In step S142, the IO control unit 301 acquires the image data 231 and its metadata 351 instructed by the read command from the storage 223, transmits them to the digital still camera 101 via the memory card interface 221, and reads the data. The process ends. Accordingly, the user can read the image data 231 from the information processing apparatus 201 by operating the digital still camera 101 as in the case of the memory card 102.

  If it is determined in step S141 that reading of the internal information 322 has been instructed, the process proceeds to step S143.

  In step S143, the image processing unit 304 acquires the internal information 322 from the storage 223. In step S144, the image processing unit 304 converts the internal information 322 into the image data 231 format. That is, the latest internal information 322 is converted into the image data 231 format.

  In step S145, the IO control unit 301 acquires the image data 231 of the internal information 322 from the image processing unit 304, transmits the image data 231 to the digital still camera 101 via the memory card interface 221, and the data reading process ends. For example, the user displays the image data 231 of the read internal information 322 on the display screen of the digital still camera 101, so that the internal information 322 of the information processing apparatus 201 can be obtained without giving a special response to the digital still camera 101. Can be easily confirmed.

  Next, details of the setting process in step S12 of FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S161, the IO control unit 301 acquires internal information 322 included in the setting command acquired in the process of step S11 in FIG.

  In step S162, the IO control unit 301 updates the internal information 322 stored in the storage 223 with the internal information 322 acquired in the process of step S161.

  In step S163, the image processing unit 304 determines whether the setting for converting the internal information 322 into the method of the image data 231 is ON based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the setting for converting the internal information 322 to the image data 231 is ON, the process proceeds to step S164.

  In step S164, the image processing unit 304 acquires the internal information 322 from the storage 223, converts the internal information 322 into the format of the image data 231, and, like the other image data 231, via the IO control unit 301. , The setting process is completed. Thereby, as described above, the image data 231 of the internal information 322 can be read out to the digital still camera 101 in the same manner as the other image data 231.

  If it is determined in step S163 that the setting for converting the internal information 322 into the image data 231 is OFF, the process in step S164 is skipped, and the setting process ends.

  In addition to the setting process described above, the information processing apparatus 201 creates a file based on the format of the internal information 322 by using a personal computer or the like, and stores the file in the storage 223 to set the internal information 322. It is also possible. The information processing apparatus 201 can also set the internal information 322 by receiving a file of the internal information 322 from another information processing apparatus via the network 251 and storing the file in the storage 223. In these cases, special software for setting the internal information 322 becomes unnecessary.

  Next, details of the transmission queue data transmission processing in step S16 of FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S181, the network interface 224 is connected to the network 251 as in the process of step S51 of FIG.

  In step S182, the network interface 224 determines whether or not the connection with the network 251 has been successful in the process of step S181. If it is determined that the connection with the network 251 is successful, the process proceeds to step S183.

  In step S183, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether registration of the image data 231 remains in the transmission queue 342. If it is determined that the registration of the image data 231 remains in the transmission queue 342, that is, if the image data 231 on standby for retransmission remains, the process proceeds to step S184.

  In step S184, among the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342, the transmission data generation processing described above with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Transmission data to be transmitted to the processing device is generated. In step S185, the transmission data generated in step S184 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251 in the same manner as in step S55 in FIG.

  In step S186, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether transmission of transmission data is successful in the process of step S185. If it is determined that the transmission of the transmission data is successful, the process proceeds to step S187.

  In step S187, the post-data transmission processing described above with reference to FIG. 14 is executed. With this processing, the registration of the image data 231 that has been successfully transmitted is deleted from the transmission queue 342.

  Thereafter, the process returns to step S183, and it is determined in step S183 that there is no registration of the image data 231 in the transmission queue 342 or until it is determined in step S186 that the transmission has failed. The process of S187 is repeated. That is, the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342 in the process of step 61 in FIG. 12 is transmitted to other information processing apparatuses via the network 251 in the order registered in the transmission queue 342.

  If it is determined in step S183 that no registration of the image data 231 remains in the transmission queue 342, that is, if all the image data 231 that is waiting for retransmission has been transmitted to another information processing apparatus, the process proceeds to step S188. Proceed to

  In step S188, the network interface 224 disconnects from the network 251 and the transmission queue data transmission process ends.

  If it is determined in step S186 that transmission of transmission data has failed, the transmission process is stopped, and the process proceeds to step S188. In step S188, the network interface 224 continues to be connected to the network 251. Then, the connection with the network 251 is disconnected, and the transmission queue data transmission process ends.

  If it is determined in step S182 that the connection to the network 251 has failed, the processing of steps S183 to S188 is skipped, the transmission processing of the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342 is not performed, and transmission is awaited. The matrix data transmission process ends.

  Next, the details of the transmission standby data transmission process in step S17 of FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In step S <b> 201, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether registration of the image data 231 remains in the transmission queue 342. If it is determined that the registration of the image data 231 remains in the transmission queue 342, that is, if the image data 231 that is waiting for retransmission or waiting for transmission remains, the process proceeds to step S202.

  In step S <b> 202, the transmission control unit 302 transmits the transmission standby time set in the operation setting information 333 after the first registered image data 231 among the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342. It is determined whether or not elapses. If it is determined that the transmission waiting time has elapsed since the image data 231 registered first in the transmission queue 342 is registered, the process proceeds to step S203.

  In step S <b> 203, the network interface 224 determines whether or not it is connected to the network 251. If it is determined that the network 251 is not connected, the process proceeds to step S204.

  In step S204, the network interface 224 is connected to the network 251 as in the process of step S51 of FIG.

  In step S205, the network interface 224 determines whether or not the connection with the network 251 has been successful in the process of step S204. If it is determined that the connection with the network 251 is successful, the process proceeds to step S206.

  If it is determined in step S203 that the network 251 is already connected, the processes in steps S204 and S205 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S206.

  In step S206, among the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342, the transmission data generation processing described above with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Transmission data to be transmitted to the processing device is generated. In step S207, the transmission data generated in step S206 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251 in the same manner as in step S55 in FIG.

  In step S208, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether transmission of transmission data is successful in the process of step S207. If it is determined that transmission of transmission data has been successful, the process proceeds to step S209.

  In step S209, the data transmission post-process described above with reference to FIG. 14 is executed. With this processing, the registration of the image data 231 that has been successfully transmitted is deleted from the transmission queue 342.

  Thereafter, the process returns to step S201, and it is determined in step S201 that there is no registration of the image data 231 in the transmission queue 342, or the image data 231 that is first registered in the transmission queue 342 in step S202. The processing of steps S201 to S209 is repeated until it is determined that the transmission standby time has not elapsed since the registration of the image, or until it is determined in step S208 that the transmission has failed. That is, other information processing apparatuses are connected via the network 251 in the order in which the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342 in the process of step S6 in FIG. 9 or step S61 in FIG. 12 is registered in the transmission queue 342. Sent to.

  In step S201, when it is determined that the registration of the image data 231 does not remain in the transmission queue 342, that is, when the image data 231 waiting for retransmission and waiting for transmission are all transmitted to another information processing apparatus, The process proceeds to step S210.

  In step S210, the network interface 224 disconnects from the network 251 and the transmission standby data transmission process ends.

  In step S202, when it is determined that the transmission waiting time has not elapsed since the image data 231 registered first in the transmission queue 342 is registered, that is, registered in the transmission queue 342 (in the storage 223). All of the image data 231 that has passed the transmission standby time since it has been stored is transmitted to the other information processing apparatus, and only the registration of the image data 231 that has not been transmitted since the time it was registered in the transmission queue 342 is transmitted. If it remains in the queue 342, the process proceeds to step S210, the network interface 224 disconnects from the network 251, and the transmission standby data transmission process ends.

  If it is determined in step S208 that transmission of transmission data has failed, the transmission process is stopped, and the process proceeds to step S211.

  In step S211, the network interface 224 disconnects the connection with the network 251 when the connection with the network 251 is continued.

  In step S212, the IO control unit 301 determines whether or not the retransmission setting is ON based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the retransmission setting is off, the process proceeds to step S213.

  In step S213, the IO control unit 301 waits for registration of the image data 231 that has been registered in the transmission queue 342 and for which the transmission waiting time has elapsed among the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342. Delete from matrix 342. That is, the registration of the image data 231 that has not been transmitted in the current transmission standby data transmission process is deleted from the transmission queue 342 even though the transmission standby time has elapsed since it was stored in the storage 223. The image data 231 is not transmitted to other information processing apparatuses.

  In step S214, similar to the process of step S62 of FIG. 12, the IO control unit 301 sets the image data 231 whose registration has been deleted from the transmission queue 342 in the process of step S213 to a transmission failure state, and transmits transmission standby data transmission. The process ends.

  If it is determined in step S212 that the retransmission setting is on, the processes in steps S213 and S214 are skipped, and the transmission standby data transmission process ends. That is, the registration of the image data 231 in the transmission queue 342 remains as it is, and the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342 becomes another information process via the network 251 by the transmission standby data transmission processing from the next time. Sent to the device.

  If it is determined in step S205 that the connection with the network 251 has failed, the process proceeds to step S212, the processes in steps S212 to S214 described above are executed, and the transmission standby data transmission process ends.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 21 and FIG. 22, the details of the data reception process in step S19 of FIG. 10 will be described.

  In step S231, the reception control unit 303 determines whether or not a reception timer (not shown) inside the reception control unit 303 has passed the reception interval time set in the operation setting information 333. The reception timer is activated when processing of the information processing apparatus 201 is started, and normal data reception processing is periodically executed every time the reception timer elapses the reception interval time. If it is determined that the reception timer has passed the reception interval time, that is, if it is determined that it is time to execute normal data reception processing, the processing proceeds to step S232.

  In step S232, the reception control unit 303 resets the reception timer. That is, the timer value of the reception timer is returned to 0 and the reception timer is restarted. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S235.

  If it is determined in step S231 that the reception timer has not passed the reception interval time, the process proceeds to step S233, and the reception control unit 303 determines whether reception retry processing is in progress. The reception retry process means that, when the reception retry setting of the operation setting information 333 is ON, if the normal data reception process that is periodically executed every reception interval time fails, the data reception process is successful, This is a process of repeating the data reception process for each reception retry interval time shorter than the reception interval time set in the operation setting information 333 until the maximum number of reception retries set in the operation setting information 333 is exceeded. If it is determined in step S233 that the reception retry process is being performed, the process proceeds to step S234.

  In step S234, the reception control unit 303 determines whether or not a reception retry timer (not shown) inside the reception control unit 303 has passed the reception retry interval time set in the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the reception retry timer has passed the reception retry interval time, that is, if it is determined that it is time to execute the reception retry process, the process proceeds to step S235.

  In step S235, the network interface 224 is connected to the network 251 as in the process of step S51 of FIG.

  In step S236, the network interface 224 determines whether or not the connection with the network 251 has been successful in the process of step S235. If it is determined that the connection with the network 251 is successful, the process proceeds to step S237.

  In step S237, the reception control unit 303 receives data from another information processing apparatus connected to the network 251 via the network 251 and the network interface 224.

  For example, when receiving an e-mail from the mail server 271 connected to the network 251, the reception control unit 303 receives the e-mail based on an e-mail reception protocol such as POP (Post Office Protocol). For example, when receiving data from the file server 272 connected to the network 251, the reception control unit 303 receives data based on a protocol such as FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol). To do. Further, for example, when receiving data from the media channel server 273 connected to the network 251, the reception control unit 303 receives data based on a protocol supported by the media channel server 273. At this time, the reception control unit 303 can receive data from a plurality of servers based on the network setting information 331.

  In step S238, the network interface 224 disconnects from the network 251.

  In step S239, the reception control unit 303 determines whether reception retry processing is being performed. If it is determined that reception retry processing is in progress, that is, it is determined in step S234 that the reception retry timer has passed the reception retry interval time, and data reception by reception retry processing is performed in steps S235 to S238. When is performed, the process proceeds to step S240.

  The reception control unit 303 stops the reception retry timer in step S240, and resets the number of reception retries in step S241.

  If it is determined in step S239 that the reception retry process is not in progress, that is, it is determined in step S231 that the reception timer has passed the reception interval time, and in steps S235 to S238, normal reception processing is performed. If data reception has been performed, the processes in steps S240 and S241 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S242.

  In step S <b> 242, the IO control unit 301 determines whether or not the folder 341 that stores the received image data 231 is set in the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the folder 341 for storing the image data 231 is set, the process proceeds to step S243.

  In step S243, the IO control unit 301 acquires the reception data received in the process of step S237 from the reception control unit 303, extracts the image data 231 from the reception data, and uses the extracted image data 231 as the operation setting information 333. Is stored in the folder 341 in the storage 223 set to “. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S245.

  If it is determined in step S242 that the folder 341 for storing the image data 231 is not set, the process proceeds to step S244. In step S244, the IO control unit 301 performs the process from the reception control unit 303 to step S237. Received received data is acquired, image data 231 is extracted from the received data, and the extracted image data 231 is stored in a default folder 341 set in the operation setting information 333. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S245.

  In step S245, the metadata generation unit 305 generates the metadata 351 of the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 in the process of step S242, similarly to the process of step S33 of FIG.

  In step S246, the IO control unit 301 acquires the metadata 351 generated by the process of step S245 from the metadata generation unit 305 and stores it in the storage 223 in the same manner as the process of step S34 of FIG.

  In step S247, the image processing unit 304 determines whether the setting for changing the size of the received image data 231 is ON based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the setting for changing the size of the received image data 231 is ON, the process proceeds to step S248.

  In step S248, the image processing unit 304 acquires the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 in the process of step S243 or S244 via the IO control unit 301, and similarly to the process of step S85 in FIG. The size of the image data 231 is changed to the size set in the operation setting information 333.

  In step S249, the IO control unit 301 acquires the image data 231 whose size has been changed by the process of step S248 from the image processing unit 304, and the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 by the process of step S243 or S244. Then, the image data 231 whose dimensions have been changed is updated, and the data reception process ends. Thereby, the dimension of the image data 231 received from another information processing apparatus is changed to a dimension suitable for browsing on the display screen of the digital still camera 101, for example. When the dimensions of the image data 231 received from other information processing apparatuses are not uniform, the dimensions of the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 are unified.

  If it is determined in step S247 that the setting for changing the size of the received image data is OFF, the processes in steps S248 and S249 are skipped, and the data reception process ends.

  If it is determined in step S236 that the connection with the network 251 has failed, the process proceeds to step S250, and the reception control unit 303 determines whether the reception retry setting is on based on the operation setting information 333. judge. When it is determined that the reception retry setting is off, that is, when the connection with the network 251 fails and the reception retry process is not executed, the process of step S251 is skipped and the data reception process ends.

  If it is determined in step S250 that the reception retry setting is on, the process proceeds to step S251. In step S251, the reception retry setting process is executed, and the data reception process ends. The details of the reception retry setting process will be described later with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S233 that reception retry processing is not in progress, and if it is determined in step S234 that the reception retry timer has not passed the reception retry interval time, that is, normal reception processing and reception retry processing. If it is not time to execute, the data reception process ends.

  Through the above data reception process, data is automatically received from the other information processing apparatus connected to the network 251 via the network 251.

  Next, details of the reception retry setting process executed in step S251 of FIG. 21 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S261, the reception control unit 303 adds one value to the number of reception retries. The reception retry count is a counter indicating the total number of reception retry processes to be executed next.

  In step S262, the reception control unit 303 determines whether or not the number of reception retries exceeds the maximum number of reception retries set in the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the number of reception retries does not exceed the maximum number of reception retries, that is, if the number of times the reception retry process has been executed is less than the maximum number of reception retries, the process proceeds to step S263.

  In step S263, the reception control unit 303 determines whether reception retry processing is being performed. If it is determined that the reception retry process is not in progress, that is, if it is determined in step S236 in FIG. 21 that the connection with the network 251 has failed during the normal reception process, the process proceeds to step S264.

  In step S264, the reception control unit 303 activates the reception retry timer, and the reception retry setting process ends.

  If it is determined in step S263 that the reception retry process is being performed, that is, if it is determined in step S236 in FIG. 21 that the connection with the network 251 has failed during the reception retry process, the process proceeds to step S263. The process proceeds to S265.

  In step S265, the reception control unit 303 resets the reception retry timer, that is, returns the timer value of the reception retry timer to 0, restarts the reception retry timer, and the reception retry setting process ends.

  If it is determined in step S262 that the number of reception retries exceeds the maximum number of reception retries, that is, if the number of times that the reception retry process has been executed is equal to or greater than the maximum number of reception retries, the process proceeds to step S266 and reception control is performed. The unit 303 stops the reception retry timer in step S266, resets the number of reception retries in step S266, and the reception retry setting process ends. That is, the reception retry process is terminated.

  As described above, similarly to the memory card 102, the image data 231 transmitted from the digital still camera 101 is stored in the information processing apparatus 201, or the image data 231 stored in the information processing apparatus 201 is stored in the digital still camera. 101. Furthermore, the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 is automatically transmitted from the information processing apparatus 201 to another information processing apparatus via the network 251, or automatically from another information processing apparatus to the information processing apparatus 201. Data is received.

  In the information processing apparatus 201 to which the present invention is applied, the image data 231 stored in a predetermined folder of the storage 223 can be transmitted to another information processing apparatus. With reference to FIGS. 24 to 28, an embodiment in which the image data 231 stored in a predetermined folder in the storage 223 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus will be described.

  The functional configuration example of the information processing apparatus 201 is the same as the functional configuration example shown in FIG. 6 described above, and a description thereof will be omitted. Further, the configuration example of the functions realized by the processor 222 is the same as the configuration example shown in FIG.

  First, a configuration example of data stored in the storage 223 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 24, portions corresponding to those in FIG. 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

  In the data configuration example shown in FIG. 24, compared to the data configuration example shown in FIG. 8, in addition to the folders 341-1 and 341-2, there are two folders, a transmission folder 361 and a transmitted folder 362. Is provided. The image data 231 and metadata 351 stored in the transmission folder 361 are transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251 by the data transmission process described later with reference to FIG. Data 231 and metadata 351 are moved to the transmitted folder 362. Further, the transmission queue 342 in the data configuration example of FIG. 8 is not provided in the data configuration example of FIG.

  Next, referring to the flowchart of FIG. 25, processing executed by the information processing apparatus 201 when the image data 231 stored in the transmission folder 361 of the storage 223 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus. Will be described.

  In step S301, the memory card interface 221 determines whether or not a storage command has been received from the digital still camera 101, as in the process of step S1 of FIG. If it is determined that a storage command has been received, the process proceeds to step S302, where the data storage process described above with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 11 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S303. If it is determined in step S301 that a storage command has not been received, the process of step S302 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S303.

  The processing in steps S303 to S308 is the same as the processing in steps S7 to S12 in FIGS. 9 and 10 described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  In step S309, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether the transmission setting is ON based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the transmission setting is on, the process proceeds to step S310.

  In step S <b> 310, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the image data 231 is stored in the transmission folder 361. If it is determined that the image data 231 is stored in the transmission folder 361, the process proceeds to step S311.

  In step S311, data transmission processing is executed. Details of the data transmission process will be described later with reference to FIG. 27, but the image data 231 stored in the transmission folder 361 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251 by this process. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S312.

  If it is determined in step S310 that the image data 231 is not stored in the transmission folder 361, the process of step S311 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S312.

  If it is determined in step S309 that the transmission setting is OFF, the processes in steps S310 and S311 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S312.

  The processing in steps S312 and S313 is the same as the processing in steps S18 and S19 in FIG. 10 described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  After the process of step S313 or when it is determined in step S312 that the reception setting is OFF, the process returns to step S301, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  Next, details of the data transmission process executed in step S311 of FIG. 26 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S331, the network interface 224 is connected to the network 251 as in the process of step S51 of FIG.

  In step S332, the network interface 224 determines whether or not the connection with the network 251 has been successful in the process of step S331. If it is determined that the connection with the network 251 is successful, the process proceeds to step S333.

  In step S <b> 333, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the image data 231 is stored in the transmission folder 361. If it is determined that the image data 231 is stored in the transmission folder 361, the process proceeds to step S334.

  In step S334, among the image data 231 stored in the transmission folder 361, the transmission data generation processing described above with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Transmission data to be transmitted to the processing device is generated. In step S335, the transmission data generated in step S334 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251 in the same manner as in step S55 in FIG.

  In step S336, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether transmission of transmission data is successful in the process of step S335. If it is determined that the transmission of the transmission data is successful, the process proceeds to step S337.

  In step S337, post-data transmission processing is executed. The details of the post-data transmission processing will be described later with reference to FIG. 28. With this processing, the image data 231 transmitted to another information processing apparatus is moved from the transmission folder 361 to the transmitted folder 362.

  Thereafter, the process returns to step S333, and until it is determined in step S333 that the image data 231 is not stored in the transmission folder 361 or until it is determined in step S336 that the transmission has failed, steps S333 to S337 are performed. The process is repeated. That is, the image data 231 registered in the transmission folder 361 in step S310 of FIG. 26 is transmitted to other information processing apparatuses via the network 251 in the order registered in the transmission folder.

  If it is determined in step S333 that the image data 231 is not stored in the transmission folder 361, that is, all the image data 231 stored in the transmission folder 361 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus. The process proceeds to step S338.

  In step S338, the network interface 224 disconnects from the network 251 and the data transmission process ends.

  If it is determined in step S336 that transmission of transmission data has failed, the transmission process is stopped, and the process proceeds to step S339.

  In step S339, the network interface 224 disconnects the connection with the network 251 when the connection with the network 251 is continued.

  In step S340, the IO control unit 301 determines whether or not the retransmission setting is on based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the retransmission setting is off, the process proceeds to step S341.

  In step S341, the IO control unit 301 moves the image data 231 stored in the transmission folder 361 to a predetermined folder, and the data transmission process ends. That is, the image data 231 that has not been transmitted in the current data transmission process is not transmitted to other information processing apparatuses. The destination folder may be set in the operation setting information 333, or may be a folder stored before the image data 231 is moved to the transmission folder 361.

  If it is determined in step S340 that the retransmission setting is on, the process of step S341 is skipped, and the data transmission process ends. That is, the image data 231 stored in the transmission folder 361 remains as it is, and is transmitted to another information processing apparatus in the next data transmission process.

  If it is determined in step S332 that the connection with the network 251 has failed, the process proceeds to step S340, the processes of steps S340 and S341 described above are performed, and the data transmission process ends.

  In this manner, the image data 231 and the metadata 351 stored in the transmission folder 361 are transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 28, details of the data transmission post-processing executed in step S337 of FIG. 27 will be described.

  In step S351, the IO control unit 301 moves the image data 231 and metadata 351 transmitted in step S335 of FIG. 27 from the transmission folder 361 to the transmitted folder 362.

  In step S <b> 352, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the setting for image processing of the image data 231 is on based on the operation setting information 333. When it is determined that the setting for image processing is ON, that is, when image data 231 is image-processed in step S83 of FIG. 13 when image data 231 is transmitted, the process proceeds to step S353.

  In step S <b> 353, the IO control unit 301 stores the image data 231 subjected to image processing in the transmitted folder 362.

  In step S354, based on the operation setting information 333, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the setting for deleting the image data 231 before image processing is on. If it is determined that the setting for deleting the image data 231 before the image processing is on, the process proceeds to step S355.

  In step S355, the IO control unit 301 deletes the image data 231 before image processing stored in the transmitted folder 362 in the processing of step S351, and the post-data transmission processing ends. That is, the transmitted folder 362 stores only the image data 231 after image processing transmitted to another information processing apparatus, and as a result, the image data 231 before image processing is subjected to image processing. The image data 231 is updated later.

  If it is determined in step S354 that the setting for deleting the image data 231 before image processing is off, the processing in step S355 is skipped, and the post-data transmission processing ends. In other words, the transmitted folder 362 stores both image data 231 before image processing and after image processing.

  If it is determined in step S352 that the setting for image processing is OFF, the processing in steps S353 to S355 is skipped, and the post-data transmission processing ends.

  Further, in the information processing apparatus 201 to which the present invention is applied, the image data 231 to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus can be designated by the user. For example, the digital still camera 101 transmits a file designating image data 231 to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus (hereinafter referred to as a transmission designation file) to the information processing apparatus 201, and the information processing apparatus 201 transmits the transmission designation file. Thus, the image data 231 to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus can be designated.

  For example, DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) (trademark) can be applied to the transmission designation file method. DPOF (trademark) is a method for recording information specifying image data to be printed out, the number of sheets to be printed out, and the like for image data stored in a storage device such as a memory card. A file created based on this method is stored in a storage device. For example, when printing out image data with a printer, a DPOF file is read from the storage device to the printer, and the storage device The image data stored in is printed out.

  When the digital still camera 101 is compatible with the DPOF (trademark) system, the image data 231 designated to be printed out by the information processing apparatus 201 using the DPOF (trademark) file is stored in another information processing apparatus. Thus, even if no special correspondence is applied to the digital still camera 101, the user operates the digital still camera 101 to select from the image data 231 stored in the information processing apparatus 201. The image data 231 to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus can be designated.

  With reference to FIG. 29 and FIG. 30, an embodiment in which image data 231 to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus is designated using a transmission designation file will be described.

  The functional configuration example of the information processing apparatus 201 is the same as the functional configuration example shown in FIG. 6 described above, and a description thereof will be omitted. Further, the configuration example of the functions realized by the processor 222 is the same as the configuration example shown in FIG. Furthermore, the configuration example of the data stored in the storage 223 is the same as the configuration example shown in FIG. 8 described above, and the description thereof is omitted.

  With reference to FIG. 29 and FIG. 30, processing executed by the information processing apparatus 201 when the image data 231 to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus is designated using a transmission designation file will be described.

  The processing in steps S401 through S408 is the same as the processing in steps S301 through S308 in FIG. 25 described above, and a description thereof will be omitted. The transmission designation file is obtained when the user operates the digital still camera 101 to designate image data 231 to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus from the image data 231 stored in the information processing apparatus 201. In step S401, it is transmitted from the digital still camera 101 to the information processing apparatus 201 together with the storage command, and stored in the storage 223 in step S402.

  In step S409, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the transmission designation file is stored in the storage 223. If it is determined that the transmission designation file is stored in the storage 223, the process proceeds to step S410.

  In step S410, the IO control unit 301 reads the transmission designation file from the storage 223, and registers the image data 231 designated to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus in the transmission queue 342 based on the transmission designation file. .

  If it is determined in step S409 that the transmission designation file is not stored in the storage 223, the process of step S410 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S411.

  In step S411, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether the transmission setting is ON based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the transmission setting is on, the process proceeds to step S412.

  In step S <b> 412, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the image data 231 is registered in the transmission queue 342. If it is determined that the image data 231 is registered in the transmission queue 342, the process proceeds to step S413.

  In step S413, the transmission queue data transmission process described above with reference to FIG. 18 is executed. With this process, the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342 is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251 based on the transmission designation file in the process of step S410.

  In step S414, the IO control unit 301 updates the contents of the transmission designation file. Specifically, the IO control unit 301 reads the transmission designation file from the storage 223, and deletes the transmission designation of the image data 231 transmitted to the other information processing apparatus from the transmission designation file in the process of step S413. As a result, the information of the transmission designation file is updated to information designating transmission of only the image data 231 that has failed to be transmitted and remains registered in the transmission queue 342 in step S413.

  If it is determined in step S412 that the image data 231 is not registered in the transmission queue 342, that is, if there is no image data 231 designated to be transmitted to another information processing apparatus by the transmission designation file, The processes of S413 and S414 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S415.

  If it is determined in step S411 that the transmission setting is OFF, the processes in steps S412 to S414 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S415.

  The processing in steps S415 and S416 is the same as the processing in steps S18 and S19 in FIG. 10 described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  After the process of step S416 or when it is determined in step S415 that the reception setting is OFF, the process returns to step S401, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  In the above, the configuration example of the data stored in the storage 223 has been shown as the configuration example shown in FIG. 8, but the configuration example shown in FIG. The image data 231 designated to be transmitted to the processing device may be stored in the transmission folder 361 and transmitted to another information processing device.

  Moreover, although the example which designates the image data 231 transmitted to another information processing apparatus by the transmission designation file has been shown, the image data 231 transmitted from the digital still camera 101 when the user operates the digital still camera 101. May be output, and a command for canceling transmission may be output, and the image data 231 to be transmitted may be specified by the command.

  Further, like the information processing apparatus 401 shown in FIG. 31, the information processing apparatus 201 shown in FIG. 6 is further provided with a user interface 411, and the user operates the buttons 421-1 to 421-3 of the user interface 411. Thus, it is possible to perform data transmission processing to another information processing apparatus and data reception processing from another information processing apparatus. In the information processing apparatus 401 shown in FIG. 31, portions corresponding to those of the information processing apparatus 201 shown in FIG.

  The user interface 411 is provided with three buttons 421-1 to 421-3. When the user presses the button 421-1, a batch transmission command is output from the user interface 411 to the processor 222 and registered in the transmission queue 342 as described later with reference to FIGS. 32 and 33. Transmission processing of the image data 231 is executed. When the user presses the button 421-2, a batch transmission stop command is output from the user interface 411 to the processor 222, and is registered in the transmission queue 342 as will be described later with reference to FIGS. 32 and 33. The registered image data 231 is deleted, and the transmission of the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342 is stopped. Further, when the user presses the button 421-3, a reception command is output from the user interface 411 to the processor 222, and data from other information processing apparatuses will be described later with reference to FIGS. 34 and 35. Reception processing is executed.

  Note that a configuration example of functions realized by the processor 222 of the information processing apparatus 401 is the same as the configuration example shown in FIG. 7 described above, and a description thereof will be omitted. Further, the data configuration example stored in the storage 223 of the information processing apparatus 401 is the same as the data configuration example shown in FIG. 8 described above, and the description thereof is omitted.

  Next, processing executed by the information processing apparatus 401 will be described with reference to FIGS. 32 and 33. FIG.

  In step S501, the memory card interface 221 determines whether or not a storage command has been received from the digital still camera 101, as in the process of step S1 of FIG. If it is determined that a storage command has been received, the process proceeds to step S502, where the data storage process described above with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 11 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S503.

  In step S503, the IO control unit 301 registers the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 in the process of step S502 in the transmission queue 342. That is, the image data 231 stored in the storage 223 is in a transmission standby state.

  If it is determined in step S501 that the storage command has not been received, the processes in steps S502 and S503 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S504.

  The processing in steps S504 to S509 is the same as the processing in steps S7 to S12 in FIGS. 9 and 10 described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  In step S510, the IO control unit 301 determines whether a batch transmission command has been input. If it is determined that the batch transmission command has been input, that is, if the user has pressed the button 421-1 of the user interface 411, the process proceeds to step S511.

  In step S511, the transmission control unit 302 determines whether or not the transmission setting is ON based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the transmission setting is on, the process proceeds to step S512.

  In step S <b> 512, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the image data 231 is registered in the transmission queue 342. If it is determined that the image data 231 is registered in the transmission queue 342, that is, if there is image data 231 waiting for transmission registered in the transmission queue 342 in step S503, the process proceeds to step S513. .

  In step S513, the transmission queue data transmission process described above with reference to FIG. 18 is performed. As a result of this processing, the image data 231 waiting for transmission is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251.

  If it is determined in step S512 that the image data 231 is not registered in the transmission queue 342, the process of step S513 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S514.

  If it is determined in step S511 that the transmission setting is OFF, the processes in steps S512 and S513 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S514.

  If it is determined in step S510 that the batch transmission command has not been input, the processes in steps S511 to S513 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S514.

  In step S514, the IO control unit 301 determines whether a batch transmission stop command has been input. If it is determined that the batch transmission stop command is input, that is, if the user presses the button 421-2 of the user interface 411, the process proceeds to step S515.

  In step S515, the IO control unit 301 deletes all registrations of the image data 231 registered in the transmission queue 342. That is, in step S503, transmission of the image data 231 in the transmission standby registered in the transmission queue 342 is stopped.

  If it is determined in step S514 that the batch transmission stop command has not been input, the process of step S515 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S516.

  In step S516, the reception control unit 303 determines whether or not the reception setting is ON based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the reception setting is ON, the process proceeds to step S517, a data reception process described later with reference to FIGS. 34 and 35 is executed, the process returns to step S501, and the subsequent processes are repeated. It is. If it is determined in step S516 that the reception setting is OFF, the process in step S517 is skipped, the process returns to step S501, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  Next, details of the data reception process executed in step S517 of FIG. 33 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  In step S531, the IO control unit 301 determines whether a reception command has been input. If it is determined that a reception command has been input, that is, if the user has pressed button 421-3 of user interface 411, the process proceeds to step S534. If it is determined that a reception command has not been input, the process proceeds to step S532.

  The subsequent steps S532 to S550 of the flowcharts of FIGS. 34 and 35 are clearly compared with steps S233 to S251 of the flowcharts of FIGS. 21 and 22 in the data reception process of the information processing apparatus 201. The description is omitted because it is similar. That is, the difference from the data reception process in the information processing apparatus 201 described above with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22 is that the normal reception process is performed when the user presses the button 421-3 and the reception command is input. Is the point where is executed.

  In the information processing apparatus 401, as described above with reference to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the transmission standby time is set after the transmission standby time is set in the operation setting information 333 and the image data 231 is stored in the storage 223. Alternatively, the image data 231 may be transmitted to another information processing apparatus. As a result, the transmission of the image data 231 that is waiting for transmission can be stopped by the user pressing the button 421-2 before the transmission standby time elapses, and the user must press the button 421-2. For example, after the transmission standby time has elapsed, the image data 231 is automatically transmitted to another information processing apparatus via the network 251.

  Further, like the information processing device 501 shown in FIG. 36, the information processing device 201 shown in FIG. 6 is further provided with a sensor unit 511, which is stored in the storage 223 based on sensor data output from the sensor unit 511. The image data 231 can be subjected to image processing or metadata 351 of the image data 231 can be generated. In the information processing apparatus 501 shown in FIG. 36, the same reference numerals are given to portions corresponding to those of the information processing apparatus 201 shown in FIG.

  The sensor unit 511 includes a GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) sensor 521, an acceleration sensor 522, an orientation sensor 523, and a temperature sensor 524.

  The GPS sensor 521 receives radio waves from a geodetic satellite and outputs sensor data based on the measured current position. The acceleration sensor 522 detects acceleration in three axial directions that are substantially orthogonal to each other, and outputs sensor data based on the detected acceleration. The azimuth sensor 523 outputs sensor data based on the azimuth measured by the magnetism at the geomagnetic level detected by the magnetoresistive element provided inside. The temperature sensor 524 outputs sensor data based on the temperature detected by the resistance value of a temperature sensitive resistor (thermistor) whose resistance changes with temperature.

  The sensor unit 511 supplies the sensor data output from the GPS sensor 521, the acceleration sensor 522, the direction sensor 523, and the temperature sensor 524 to the processor 222.

  Note that the configuration example of the functions realized by the processor 222 of the information processing apparatus 501 is the same as the configuration example shown in FIG. 7 described above, and a description thereof will be omitted. Further, the data configuration example stored in the storage 223 of the information processing apparatus 501 is the same as the data configuration example shown in FIG. 8 described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Furthermore, the processing executed by the information processing device 501 shown in FIG. 35 is compared with the processing executed by the information processing device 201 described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. The processing is the same except for the data storage processing shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  With reference to FIGS. 37 and 38, details of the data storage process executed by the information processing apparatus 501 in step S2 of FIG. 9 will be described.

  In step S601, the IO control unit 301 determines whether the storage command is a command to store the image data 231 in the storage 223, as in the process of step S31 of FIG. If it is determined that the command is to store the image data 231 in the storage 223, the process proceeds to step S602.

  In step S602, similar to the processing in step S32 in FIG. 11, the IO control unit 301 stores the image data 231 in the storage 223 based on the storage command.

  In step S603, the transmission control unit 302, the image processing unit 304, and the metadata generation unit 305 acquire the sensor data output from the GPS sensor 521, the acceleration sensor 522, the direction sensor 523, and the temperature sensor 524 of the sensor unit 511. To do.

  In step S604, the metadata generation unit 305 determines whether or not the setting for receiving related information related to sensor data from the media channel server 273 connected to the network 251 is ON based on the operation setting information 333. judge. If it is determined that the setting for receiving related information is ON, the process proceeds to step S605.

  In step S605, the network interface 224 is connected to the network 251 as in the process of step S51 of FIG.

  In step S606, the network interface 224 determines whether or not the connection with the network 251 has been successful in the process of step S605. If it is determined that the connection with the network 251 has been successful, the process proceeds to step S607.

  In step S607, the transmission control unit 302 controls the network interface 224 to process the sensor data output from the GPS sensor 521 via the network 251 and the media channel server 273 through the same processing as in step S55 of FIG. To send to.

  In step S608, the reception control unit 303 performs the same process as in step S237 of FIG. 21, so that the reception control unit 303 associates with the sensor data transmitted in the process of step S607 from the media channel server 273 via the network 251 and the network interface 224. Information is received and supplied to the metadata generation unit 305.

  For example, the media channel server 273 extracts the location name of the location and the surrounding area information as related information based on the sensor data received in the process of step S607, that is, the location information measured by the GPS sensor 521, and the related information Information is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 501. In step S608, the related information transmitted from the media channel server 273 is received. Thus, when the user takes an image with the digital still camera 101 and the image data 231 is stored in the storage 223 of the information processing apparatus 501, related information related to the shooting location is automatically transmitted from the media channel server 273. To be acquired.

  In step S609, the network interface 224 disconnects from the network 251.

  If it is determined in step S606 that the connection with the network 251 has failed, the processes in steps S607 to S609 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S610.

  If it is determined in step S604 that the setting for receiving related information is OFF, the processes in steps S605 to S609 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S610.

  In step S610, the metadata generation unit 305 generates metadata 351 of the image data 231. If the setting for receiving the sensor data acquired in step S603 and the related information in addition to the operation setting information 333 and the user information 332 is ON, the metadata generation unit 305 performs processing in step S608. Based on the acquired related information, metadata 351 is generated.

  For example, when the user takes an image with the digital still camera 101 and the image data 231 of the image is stored in the storage 223, the orientation of the image taken by the orientation sensor 523 and the temperature sensor 524 measure the orientation. The temperature at the time of shooting is recorded in the metadata 351. In addition, related information received from the server in the process of step S608, for example, the name of the place where the image was taken, its peripheral information, and the like are recorded in the metadata 351.

  In step S <b> 611, the IO control unit 301 acquires the metadata 351 generated in step S <b> 610 and stores it in the storage 223, similar to the processing in step S <b> 34 in FIG. 11.

  In step S612, the image processing unit 304 determines whether the setting for converting the related information into the method of the image data 231 is ON based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the setting for converting the related information into the method of the image data 231 is ON, the process proceeds to step S613.

  In step S613, the image processing unit 304 converts the related information into the method of the image data 231, and stores the converted image data 231 of the related information in the storage 223. As a result, the related information can be read by the digital still camera 101 in the same manner as the other image data 231. For example, the content of the related information can be confirmed on the display screen of the digital still camera 101.

  If it is determined in step S612 that the setting for converting the related information into the method of the image data 231 is OFF, the process of step S613 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S614.

  In step S614, the image processing unit 304 determines, based on the operation setting information 333, whether the setting for image processing of the image data 231 is on based on the sensor data. If it is determined that the image processing setting is on based on the sensor data, the process proceeds to step S615.

  In step S615, the image processing unit 304 performs image processing on the image data 231 based on the sensor data. Specifically, for example, the image processing unit 304 detects the tilt or vibration of the digital still camera 101 to which the information processing apparatus 501 is attached based on the sensor data output from the acceleration sensor 522, and the digital still camera The image data 231 is corrected so that the image photographed by 101 is horizontal with respect to the ground at the photographing location.

  In step S616, the IO control unit 301 acquires the image data 231 subjected to image processing from the image processing unit 304, and stores the image data 231 in the storage 223 in the folder 341 in which the image data 231 before image processing is stored.

  In step S617, the IO control unit 301 determines whether or not the setting for deleting the image data 231 before image processing is ON based on the operation setting information 333. If it is determined that the setting for deleting the image data 231 before image processing is on, the process proceeds to step S618.

  In step S618, the IO control unit 301 deletes the image data 231 before image processing stored in the storage 223, and the data storage processing ends. That is, only the image data 231 after image processing is stored in the storage 223, and as a result, the image data 231 before image processing is updated with the image data 231 after image processing.

  If it is determined in step S617 that the setting for deleting the image data 231 before image processing is off, the process of step S618 is skipped, and the data storage process ends. That is, the storage 223 stores both image data 231 before image processing and after image processing.

  If it is determined in step S614 that the setting for image processing based on the sensor data is OFF, the processes in steps S615 to S618 are skipped, and the data storage process ends.

  If it is determined in step S601 that the storage command is not an instruction to store the image data 231 in the storage 223, that is, if the instruction is to move the image data 231 specified by the storage command to the specified folder 341, processing is performed. Advances to step S619.

  In step S619, the IO control unit 301 moves the image data 231 specified by the storage command and the metadata 351 thereof to the specified folder 341, and the data storage process ends.

  As described above, the shape of the part connected to the electronic device of the housing in which the information processing apparatus is stored conforms to the standard of the storage medium, and is transmitted from the electronic device to which the user is attached via the connection means. Control the reception of the received content data, control the storage of the received content data, and send the stored content data to other information processing devices via the network based on the stored transmission setting data. When transmission is controlled, content data of an electronic device that can be attached to a storage medium that conforms to a standard that conforms to the shape of the part that is attached to the electronic device of the casing in which the information processing device is stored may be stored. it can. In addition, the content data of the electronic device can be easily transmitted to another information processing apparatus.

  In addition, in accordance with the standard of the storage medium to which the shape of the part connected to the electronic device of the housing in which the information processing apparatus is stored conforms to the standard transmitted from the electronic device to which the user is attached via the connection means. In the case of controlling the reception of the first content data and controlling the reception of the second content data transmitted from another information processing device via the network, the housing of the information processing device is stored. It is possible to store content data of an electronic device that can be attached to a storage medium that conforms to a standard that conforms to the shape of the part that is attached to the electronic device. In addition, content data can be easily received from another information processing apparatus.

  In the above description, the information processing apparatuses 201, 401, and 501 to which the present invention is applied are mounted on the digital still camera 101 and the image data 231 is mainly handled. It is also possible to handle other content data such as music data and document data by attaching it to a portable electronic device such as a portable information terminal or a mobile phone.

  In addition, as described above, the information processing apparatuses 201, 401, and 501 to which the present invention is applied communicate directly with other information processing apparatuses without passing through the network 251 to transmit and receive data. Is also possible.

  Note that the present invention can be applied to a storage device of a portable electronic device such as a digital camera, a notebook computer, a portable music player, a portable information terminal, or a cellular phone.

  A program (firmware) that executes the above-described series of processes configured by the program 321 and the like can be updated as appropriate. For example, the information processing apparatus 201, 401, or 501 is installed in a slot of a memory card 102 provided in a general-purpose personal computer, and the personal computer acquires from another information processing apparatus via a network or a program Is installed in the information processing apparatus 201, 401, or 501 from the personal computer, the program of the information processing apparatus 201, 401, or 501 is updated. In addition, the information processing apparatuses 201, 401, and 501 may directly acquire a program from another information processing apparatus via a network and install the program.

  FIG. 39 is a diagram illustrating an internal configuration example of a general-purpose personal computer 700. A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 701 executes various processes according to a program stored in a ROM (Read Only Memory) 702 or a program loaded from a recording unit 708 to a RAM (Random Access Memory) 703. The RAM 703 also appropriately stores data necessary for the CPU 701 to execute various processes.

  The CPU 701, ROM 702, and RAM 703 are connected to each other via a bus 704. An input / output interface 705 is also connected to the bus 704.

  The input / output interface 705 includes an input unit 706 composed of buttons, switches, a keyboard or a mouse, an output unit 707 composed of a display such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and a speaker. Further, a recording unit 708 composed of a hard disk or the like and a communication unit 709 composed of a modem or a terminal adapter are connected. The communication unit 709 performs communication processing via a network including the Internet.

  A drive 710 is connected to the input / output interface 705 as necessary, and a removable medium including a magnetic disk 751, an optical disk 752, a magneto-optical disk 753, or a semiconductor memory 754 is appropriately attached to the personal computer 700. The read program is installed in the information processing apparatuses 201, 401, and 501.

  As shown in FIG. 39, a recording medium that records a program that is installed in the information processing apparatuses 201, 401, and 501 and can be executed by the information processing apparatuses 201, 401, and 501, A magnetic disk 751 (including a flexible disk), an optical disk 752 (including a compact disc-read only memory (CD-ROM) and a DVD (digital versatile disc)) on which a program is recorded distributed for provision. The magnetic disk 753 (including MD (Mini-Disc) (registered trademark)) or a removable medium including a semiconductor memory 754 or the like is used.

  In the present specification, the step of describing the program stored in the program storage medium is not limited to the processing performed in chronological order according to the described order, but is not necessarily performed in chronological order. Or the process performed separately is also included.

It is a figure which shows the structural example of a memory card. It is a figure explaining the method a digital still camera transmits / receives image data with an external information processing apparatus via a network. It is a figure explaining the method a digital still camera transmits / receives image data with an external information processing apparatus via a network. It is a figure explaining the method a digital still camera transmits / receives image data with an external information processing apparatus via a network. It is a perspective view which shows the example of an external appearance structure of the information processing apparatus to which this invention is applied. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of an information processing device to which the present invention is applied, and a configuration example of a device and a network to which the information processing device is connected. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the function implement | achieved by a processor. It is a figure which shows the example of a data structure stored in storage. It is a flowchart explaining the process of the information processing apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a flowchart explaining the process of the information processing apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the data storage process of step S2 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the data transmission process of FIG.9 S5. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the transmission data generation process of step S54 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the data transmission post-process of step S57 of FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining details of data deletion processing in step S8 of FIG. 9. 10 is a flowchart for explaining details of a data read process in step S10 of FIG. 9. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the setting process of step S12 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the transmission queue data transmission process of step S16 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the transmission standby data transmission process of step S17 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the transmission standby data transmission process of step S17 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the data reception process of step S19 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the data reception process of step S19 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the reception retry setting process of step S251 of FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a data structure memorize | stored in a storage. It is a flowchart explaining the process of the information processing apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a flowchart explaining the process of the information processing apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the data transmission process of step S311 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the data transmission post-process of step S337 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the process of the information processing apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a flowchart explaining the process of the information processing apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a figure which shows the block diagram which shows the function structural example of the information processing apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a flowchart explaining the process of the information processing apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a flowchart explaining the process of the information processing apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the data reception process of step S517 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the data reception process of step S517 of FIG. It is a figure which shows the block diagram which shows the function structural example of the information processing apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the data storage process of step S2 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the data storage process of step S2 of FIG. And FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a personal computer.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 Digital still camera, 102 Memory card, 151 Network, 201 Information processing apparatus, 211 Connection part, 212 Protrusion part, 221 Memory card interface, 222 Processor, 223 Storage, 224 Network interface, 225 Working memory, 251 Network, 301 IO control Unit, 302 transmission control unit, 303 reception control unit, 304 image processing unit, 305 metadata generation unit, 322 internal information, 341 folder, 342 transmission queue, 351 metadata, 361 transmission folder, 362 transmitted folder, 401 Information processing device, 411 User interface, 501 Information processing device, 511 Sensor unit, 521 GPS sensor, 522 Accelerometer, 523 Direction sensor, 524 Temperature sensor

Claims (10)

The shape of the part to be attached to the electronic device is stored in a housing conforming to the standard of the storage medium to be attached to the electronic device ,
In accordance with the standard, connection means for connecting to the electronic device,
Communication means for receiving the first content data transmitted from the electronic device to which the user is attached via the connection means , and information related to the first content data , in compliance with the standard;
A sensor for detecting at least one of a use state and a use environment of the electronic device;
Generating means for generating metadata of the first content data including items set in setting information based on user information, information on the first content data, and sensor data obtained by the sensor When,
Storage means for storing the received first content data and the generated metadata separately ;
Based on transmission setting data set in advance , the stored first content data is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via a network, and is stored according to the setting of the setting information. the information processing apparatus characterized by comprising a transmitting means for transmitting the meta data are in the other information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an image processing unit that performs image processing on the first content data that is image data. The image processing means changes the dimension of the first content data which is the image data to a dimension set in the setting information ,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the transmission unit transmits the first content data after changing the dimensions to the other information processing apparatus. The image processing means further converts internal information of the information processing apparatus including at least one of the transmission setting data, the user information, and the setting information into a method of image data corresponding to the electronic device ,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the communication unit transmits the internal information after the conversion to the image data method to the electronic device. The image processing unit corrects the first content data, which is the image data, based on at least one of the movement and the installation state of the electronic device, which is a photographing apparatus, detected based on the sensor data. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 . Receiving means for receiving second content data from the other information processing apparatus via the network;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit further stores the second content data. The transmission means further transmits the sensor data to the other information processing apparatus via the network,
The receiving means further receives related information related to the sensor data from the other information processing apparatus via the network,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the generation unit further generates the metadata based on the related information. The shape of the part to be attached to the electronic device is stored in a housing conforming to the standard of the storage medium to be attached to the electronic device,
Connection means for connecting to the electronic device in conformity with the standard ;
The information processing apparatus having a sensor,
In accordance with the standard, the content data transmitted from the electronic device to which the information processing apparatus is mounted via the connection means , and information related to the content data are received,
The sensor detects at least one of the usage state and usage environment of the electronic device,
Based on user information, information on the content data, and sensor data obtained by the sensor, generate metadata of the content data including items set in setting information,
Storing the received content data and the generated metadata separately;
Based on the preset transmission setting data, the stored content data is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via a network, and the stored meta data is set according to the setting information setting. An information processing method comprising transmitting data to the other information processing apparatus . The shape of the part to be attached to the electronic device is stored in a housing conforming to the standard of the storage medium to be attached to the electronic device,
Connection means for connecting to the electronic device in conformity with the standard ;
In a computer of an information processing apparatus having a sensor that detects at least one of a use state and a use environment of the electronic device ,
Controls reception of content data transmitted from the electronic device to which the information processing apparatus is mounted via the connection means , and information related to the content data , according to the standard ,
Based on user information, information on the content data, and sensor data obtained by the sensor, generate metadata of the content data including items set in setting information,
Control the received content data and the generated metadata to be stored separately ,
Based on the preset transmission setting data, the stored content data is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via a network, and the stored meta data is set according to the setting information setting. Control to transmit data to the other information processing apparatus
A recording medium on which a program for executing processing including steps is recorded. The shape of the part to be attached to the electronic device is stored in a housing conforming to the standard of the storage medium to be attached to the electronic device,
And connection means for connecting with the electronic device compliant with the standard,
In a computer of an information processing apparatus having a sensor that detects at least one of a use state and a use environment of the electronic device ,
Controls reception of content data transmitted from the electronic device to which the information processing apparatus is mounted via the connection means , and information related to the content data , according to the standard ,
Based on user information, information on the content data, and sensor data obtained by the sensor, generate metadata of the content data including items set in setting information,
Control the received content data and the generated metadata to be stored separately ,
Based on the preset transmission setting data, the stored content data is transmitted to another information processing apparatus via a network, and the stored meta data is set according to the setting information setting. Control to transmit data to the other information processing apparatus
A program that executes processing including steps .

Images