JP5120903B2 - Information processing apparatus, storage apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention belongs to the technical field of an information processing device and storage device, an information processing method, and an information processing program. More specifically, the present invention distributes content (distribution information) such as a movie to be distributed via a network. Technical field of the storage device that stores the information, the information processing device that distributes the distribution information from the storage device, the information processing method in the storage device and the information processing device, and the programs for the information processing device.

  In recent years, so-called content distribution in which a terminal device accesses a server or the like storing the above content via a network such as the Internet, and distributes the content desired to be viewed on the terminal device to the terminal device. Research and development is thriving.

Here, the basic configuration of a conventional distribution system that distributes content is connected to a server or the like that stores the content via a network from a terminal device that desires distribution of the content, for example, as in Patent Document 1 below. The terminal device is configured to receive the desired content distribution, that is, the transmission of the content after establishing the connection.
At this time, in the conventional distribution system, the distribution state at that time in the server or the like storing the content desired to be distributed (that is, the server or the like is operating stably or from other terminal devices) There has been no way for the terminal device that should receive the content to know whether the content delivery request has been flooded and the content delivery is crowded.

JP 2004-185263 A

  Therefore, in the above-described conventional distribution system, for example, when trying to receive distribution by simply connecting to a server or the like having the shortest distance on the network, the server or the like is unstable in operation, If it is crowded due to the relationship, it may be connected, but it takes a very long time to get the important content (if the server etc. is crowded), or the distribution is forced on the way There is a problem that it may be terminated (when the server etc. stops operating).

  And if it fails to receive content for the reasons mentioned above after connecting once, it is necessary to search for a server or the like that newly stores the same content on the network and reconnect it. As a result, there is a problem that it takes more time to acquire the desired content.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to quickly and efficiently even when there is a difference in the ease of content distribution among the servers as described above. Storage device that stores the content so that the terminal device can receive the desired content, an information processing device that distributes the content from the storage device, and the storage in the storage device and the information processing device The present invention provides a method, an information processing method, and a program for the storage device and the information processing device.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 includes an information processing device as a plurality of node devices connected to each other via a network, and an overlay network generated by the plurality of information processing devices. Accordingly, in the information distribution system including the information processing apparatus that distributes and stores the plurality of distribution information distributed to the information processing apparatus, as any of the plurality of information processing apparatuses as a storage device that stores the distribution information. A plurality of pieces of distribution information stored in the information distribution system, wherein the distribution information is one of the plurality of information processing devices, stores location information indicating a location of the storage device that stores the distribution information in a network A root node as an information processing device determined for each, and the information processing device as the root node is First acquisition means for acquiring storage device information including distribution information identification information for identifying the distribution information to be distributed and storage device identification information for identifying the storage device for storing the distribution information for distribution; , Ease information indicating ease in delivering the delivery information identified by the delivery information identification information from the storage device identified by the storage device identification information, and ease of delivery by the ease information The storage device identification information indicating the storage device in which the distribution information shown is stored, second acquisition means for acquiring distribution ease information, and the storage device information acquired by the first acquisition means And recording means for associating with the ease of delivery information acquired by the second acquisition means and recording the information so that it can be referred to from another information processing apparatus via a network. .

  Accordingly, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are acquired and recorded so that they can be referred to from other information processing devices via the network. A storage device as a distribution source can be selected, and distribution information can be received efficiently and quickly.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention according to claim 2 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the updated ease of distribution information is acquired by the second acquisition unit. The apparatus further includes update means such as a control unit that updates the ease of delivery information recorded in the recording means with the ease of delivery information acquired by the second acquisition means.

  Therefore, when the updated delivery ease information is acquired, since the previous delivery ease information is updated with the obtained delivery ease information, it is always from other information processing apparatuses that receive the delivery information. The latest distribution ease information can be referred.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention according to claim 3 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the recorded ease of distribution is sent to the other information processing apparatus. Transmission means such as a communication unit for transmission.

  Therefore, it is possible to acquire distribution ease information itself in another information processing apparatus that receives distribution information and use it to select a storage device that is a distribution source.

In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention according to claim 4 is the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ease information includes the storage device. range information indicating a range on the network, the maximum transmission rate in the transmission path used for the delivery, the storage device the number of put that delivery destination in the case it is being distributed to the distribution information, the source power to said storage device Information based on at least one of the first frequency, which is the frequency at which supply stops, or the second frequency, which is the frequency at which distribution processing of the distribution information in the storage device is considered to be stopped Configured to be.

  Therefore, since the ease information is information based on at least one of range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency, other information processing apparatuses that receive distribution information distribution Therefore, it is possible to select the storage device that is most likely to receive the distribution in an accurate manner corresponding to the actual distribution situation.

  In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 5 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the ease information includes the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, It is comprised so that it may be the score information which scored at least any one value of said 1st frequency or said 2nd frequency.

  Therefore, since the ease information is point information obtained by scoring at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission rate, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency or the second frequency, In the information processing apparatus, it is possible to select each storage unit as an objective numerical value and select a storage apparatus that is most likely to receive distribution.

  In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 6 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the range information constituting the ease information included in the acquired delivery ease information, At least one value of the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency, or the second frequency is scored to generate scoring ease information, which is replaced with the original ease information And a scoring means such as a control section for recording in the recording means.

  Therefore, since the ease information is recorded in a state that can be referred to, the ease of distribution can be objectively determined from other information processing apparatuses that receive the distribution information.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention according to claim 7 is the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the information processing apparatus is set in advance from a plurality of the ease of distribution information. Search means for searching for the delivery ease information including the ease information indicating that delivery of the delivery information is easy with respect to the delivery ease criteria, and the recording means includes the searched delivery The ease information is recorded so that it can be referred to from the other information processing apparatus.

  Therefore, since the ease of distribution information including the ease of information that is determined to be easy to distribute according to the standard of ease of distribution is recorded so that it can be referred to, the determination in the other information processing apparatus that receives the distribution of the distribution information A storage device that can be easily distributed without being accompanied can be easily selected in the other information processing device.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 8 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the search unit is configured to perform the distribution according to the number of the storage devices that distribute the distribution information. The distribution ease criterion is changed, and the distribution ease information is searched using the changed distribution ease criterion.

Therefore, since the ease of distribution is changed according to the number of storage devices that distribute distribution information, for example, even when one piece of distribution information is distributed from a plurality of storage devices, the storage device that is easy to distribute is appropriately determined. Can receive the delivery.
In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 9 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus as the root node distributes with reference to the ease information. The distribution information is acquired preferentially from the storage device that is easily received.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, an invention according to claim 16 is the information distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the plurality of information processing apparatuses are operated by the overlay network. One of the plurality of information processing apparatuses and the information processing apparatus that distributes and stores a plurality of distribution information distributed to the information processing apparatus as a storage device that stores distribution information. Storing the location information indicating the location of the storage device in the network for storing the distribution information, and the root node as an information processing device determined for each of the plurality of distribution information distributed and stored in the information distribution system; The information processing device identifies the storage device that stores the distribution information to be distributed for distribution. Distribution ease information including product device identification information and ease information indicating ease in delivering the delivery information from the storage device identified by the storage device identification information is referenced from the root node. A reference unit, a selection unit that selects the storage information to be distributed based on the referred distribution ease information, a connection to the selected storage device via a network, Connecting means for receiving distribution information distribution.

  Therefore, the delivery information is referred to, and the storage information to be distributed is selected based on the referenced ease of delivery information. By selecting a storage device as a distribution source, distribution information can be distributed efficiently and quickly.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 17 is the information processing device according to claim 16, wherein the ease information indicates a range on the network where the storage device exists. The range information, the maximum transmission speed on the transmission path used for the distribution, the number of distribution destinations when the storage device is distributing the distribution information, and the frequency at which power supply to the storage device is stopped The information is based on at least one of the first frequency or the second frequency, which is the frequency at which the distribution processing of the distribution information in the storage device is considered to be stopped.

  Therefore, since the ease information is information based on at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency, or the second frequency, the most easily corresponding to the actual distribution situation. A storage device that is easy to receive distribution can be selected.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 18 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the ease information includes the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of the delivery destinations, It is comprised so that it may be the score information which scored at least any one value of said 1st frequency or said 2nd frequency.

  Therefore, since the ease information is point information obtained by scoring at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency or the second frequency, each information is set as an objective numerical value. It is possible to select and select the storage device that is most likely to receive distribution.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention according to claim 19 is the information processing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the range information constituting the ease information included in the referred ease of delivery information, Scoring means such as a control unit for scoring at least any one of the maximum transmission speed, the number of delivery destinations, the first frequency, or the second frequency to generate scoring information; The selection means is configured to select the storage device that is to receive the distribution information based on the scoring ease information.

  Therefore, since the ease information is scored and used for selecting the storage device, the ease of distribution can be objectively determined.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention according to claim 20 is the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the information processing apparatus is preset from among the plurality of delivery ease information. Search means for searching for the delivery ease information including the ease information indicating that delivery of the delivery information is easy with respect to the delivery ease criteria, wherein the selection means includes the searched delivery Based on the ease information, the storage information to be distributed is selected.

  Therefore, since the search for the distribution ease information including the ease information determined to be easy to distribute the distribution information in light of the distribution ease criteria, and select the storage device based on the searched distribution ease information, A storage device that can be easily distributed can be easily selected.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 21 is the information processing device according to claim 20, wherein the search means is in accordance with the number of the storage devices that are to receive the distribution information. The delivery ease criterion is changed, and the delivery ease information is searched using the changed delivery ease basis.

  Therefore, since the ease of distribution is changed according to the number of storage devices that receive distribution information, for example, even when one piece of distribution information is distributed from a plurality of storage devices, the storage device that is easy to distribute is appropriately determined. Can receive the delivery.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 22 is the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 21, wherein the selection unit receives the distribution information. When the connection state with the storage device becomes unstable, the storage device showing the storage device in which the connection state becomes unstable with respect to the same distribution information among the referred distribution ease information Indicated by the storage device identification information included in the ease of delivery information including the ease of delivery information indicating that the delivery is easy next to the ease of delivery indicated by the ease of delivery of information including the identification information. The storage device is newly selected, and the connection means is configured to connect to the newly selected storage device via the network and receive the distribution information.

  Therefore, when the connection state with the storage means that is currently connected and receiving distribution information becomes unstable, reconnect to the storage device indicated by the easy distribution ease information at the next point. Therefore, even if the network becomes partially unstable, the same distribution information can be continuously received.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 23 is the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 22, wherein the selection means receives distribution of the distribution information. When the connection with the storage device is disconnected, the distribution includes the storage device identification information indicating the storage device that is disconnected with respect to the same distribution information among the referred distribution ease information The storage device indicated by the storage device identification information included in the delivery ease information including the ease information indicating that delivery is easy next to the delivery ease indicated by the ease information is newly added. The connecting means is configured to connect to the newly selected storage device via the network and receive the distribution information.

  Therefore, when the connection between the storage means currently connected and receiving distribution information is disconnected, the distribution information is reconnected to the storage device indicated by the easy distribution ease information at the next point. Therefore, even if the connection with the previous storage device is disconnected, the same distribution information can be continuously received.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, an invention according to claim 10 is the information distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the plurality of information processing apparatuses are operated by the overlay network. One of the plurality of information processing apparatuses and the information processing apparatus that distributes and stores a plurality of distribution information distributed to the information processing apparatus as a storage device that stores distribution information. Storing the location information indicating the location of the storage device in the network for storing the distribution information, and the root node as an information processing device determined for each of the plurality of distribution information distributed and stored in the information distribution system; , The storage device includes distribution information identification information for identifying the distribution information, and storage for identifying the storage device. Distribution ease information including first generation means for generating storage device information including device identification information, ease information indicating ease in distributing the distribution information, and storage device identification information. Second generation means for generating, and transmission means for transmitting the generated storage device information and distribution ease information to the root node as an information processing apparatus determined for each of the plurality of distribution information.

  Therefore, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are generated and transmitted to the information processing device having the function of managing the distribution of the corresponding distribution information. By referring to the other information processing apparatus, it is possible to select the storage device that is the distribution information distribution source based on the ease of distribution information in the other information processing apparatus, and to distribute the distribution information efficiently and quickly. Can receive.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 11 is the storage device according to claim 10, wherein the first generation unit and the second generation unit are configured to add the distribution information new to the storage device. Is stored, and the transmission means generates the storage device information and the delivery ease information, respectively, and the transmission means stores the generated storage device information and the new storage information when the delivery information is stored in the storage device. Each of the distribution ease information is configured to be transmitted to the root node as the information processing apparatus.

Therefore, when new distribution information is stored in the storage device, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are generated, respectively, and the newly generated storage device information and the ease of distribution information are transmitted to the information processing device, respectively. Therefore, in the information processing apparatus for managing distribution information, the storage apparatus information and the distribution ease information corresponding to the latest distribution information can be referred to other information processing apparatuses.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 12 is the storage device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the second generation means stores the ease of delivery information for each preset time. The transmission means is configured to transmit the newly generated distribution ease information to the root node as the information processing device when the distribution ease information is generated every time. The

  Therefore, since the distribution ease information is generated every preset time and the newly generated ease of distribution information is transmitted to the information processing device for managing the distribution information every time, the information for the distribution information management In the processing apparatus, the latest distribution ease information can be referred to other information processing apparatuses for each piece of distribution information.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the invention according to claim 13 is the storage device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the second generation means responds when the content of the ease information changes. The distribution ease information is newly generated, and the transmission means transmits the generated distribution ease information to the root node as the information processing device when the distribution ease information is newly generated. Configured to do.

  Therefore, when the content of the ease information changes, corresponding distribution ease information is newly generated, and the newly generated distribution ease information is transmitted to the information processing apparatus. Therefore, information processing for distribution information management is performed. In the apparatus, the latest distribution ease information can be referred to other information processing apparatuses for each piece of distribution information.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 14 is the storage device according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the ease information includes the presence of the storage device. Range information indicating a range on the network, the maximum transmission speed on the transmission path used for the distribution, the number of distribution destinations when the storage device is distributing the distribution information, and the stop of power supply to the storage device The information is based on at least one of the first frequency, which is the frequency of occurrence, or the second frequency, which is the frequency at which the distribution processing of the distribution information in the storage device is considered to be stopped. Composed.

  Therefore, since the ease information is information based on at least one of range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency, other information processing apparatuses that receive distribution information distribution By referring to the ease of distribution information including the ease information, it is possible to cause the other information processing apparatus to select the storage device that is most likely to receive the distribution accurately corresponding to the actual distribution situation.

  In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 15 is the storage device according to claim 14, wherein the range information, the maximum transmission rate, the number of delivery destinations, the first frequency, or the It further includes scoring means such as a control unit that scores at least one value of the second frequency as the ease information.

  Therefore, since at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency or the second frequency is scored and transmitted, it is objective in other information processing apparatuses that receive distribution information. It is possible to refer to the ease of distribution information so that the ease of distribution can be determined.

  In order to solve the above problem, an invention according to claim 24 is provided with an information processing device as a plurality of node devices connected to each other via a network, and an overlay network generated by the plurality of information processing devices. Accordingly, in the information distribution system including the information processing apparatus that distributes and stores the plurality of distribution information distributed to the information processing apparatus, as any of the plurality of information processing apparatuses as a storage device that stores the distribution information. A plurality of pieces of distribution information stored in the information distribution system, wherein the distribution information is one of the plurality of information processing devices, stores location information indicating a location of the storage device that stores the distribution information in a network An information processing method in a root node as an information processing apparatus determined for each, wherein the distribution to be distributed A first acquisition step of acquiring storage device information including distribution information identification information for identifying information; and storage device identification information for identifying the storage device for storing the distribution information for distribution; and the storage device identification information The ease information indicating the ease of delivering the delivery information identified by the delivery information identification information from the storage device identified by the delivery information, and the delivery information indicating the ease of delivery by the ease information A second acquisition step of acquiring distribution ease information including the storage device identification information indicating the stored storage device; the storage device information acquired in the first acquisition step; and the second acquisition step. And a recording step of associating the acquired ease of distribution information with each other and recording the information so that it can be referred to from another information processing apparatus via a network.

  Accordingly, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are acquired and recorded so that they can be referred to from other information processing devices via the network. A storage device as a distribution source can be selected, and distribution information can be received efficiently and quickly.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the present invention provides storage device identification information for identifying a storage device such as a content holder for storing distribution information to be distributed for distribution, and the storage device identification information. A reference step for referring to the ease of delivery information including ease of delivery of the delivery information from the storage device, and delivery of the delivery information based on the referenced ease of delivery information. A selection step of selecting the storage information to be received, and a connection step of connecting to the selected storage device via a network and receiving distribution of the distribution information.

  Therefore, the delivery information is referred to, and the storage information to be distributed is selected based on the referenced ease of delivery information. By selecting a storage device as a distribution source, distribution information can be distributed efficiently and quickly.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a storage method for storing and distributing distribution information, including distribution information identification information for identifying the distribution information and storage device identification information for identifying the storage device. A first generation step of generating storage device information including, a second generation step of generating distribution ease information including ease information indicating ease in distributing the distribution information, and the storage device identification information And a transmission step of transmitting the generated storage device information and distribution ease information to an information processing device having a function of managing distribution of the distribution information.

  Therefore, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are generated and transmitted to the information processing device having the function of managing the distribution of the corresponding distribution information. By referring to the other information processing apparatus, it is possible to select the storage device that is the distribution information distribution source based on the ease of distribution information in the other information processing apparatus, and to distribute the distribution information efficiently and quickly. Can receive.

  In order to solve the above problem, an invention according to claim 25 includes an information processing device as a plurality of node devices connected to each other via a network, and an overlay network generated by the plurality of information processing devices. Accordingly, in the information distribution system including the information processing apparatus that distributes and stores the plurality of distribution information distributed to the information processing apparatus, as any of the plurality of information processing apparatuses as a storage device that stores the distribution information. A plurality of pieces of distribution information stored in the information distribution system, wherein the distribution information is one of the plurality of information processing devices, stores location information indicating a location of the storage device that stores the distribution information in a network Identify the distribution information to be distributed to the computer of the root node as the information processing device determined for each A first acquisition step of acquiring storage device information including the distribution information identification information, and the storage device identification information for identifying the storage device for storing the distribution information for distribution, and the storage device identification information. The ease information indicating the ease of delivering the delivery information identified by the delivery information identification information from the storage device and the delivery information indicating the ease of delivery by the ease information are accumulated. A second acquisition step of acquiring distribution device identification information including the storage device identification information indicating the storage device, the storage device information acquired by the first acquisition step, and the second acquisition step. A recording step of recording the information so as to be referable from another information processing apparatus via the network in association with the distribution ease information.

  Therefore, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are acquired, and the computer functions so that these can be recorded from other information processing devices via the network. The storage device that is the distribution source of the distribution information can be selected based on the distribution ease information, and the distribution information can be distributed efficiently and quickly.

  In addition, when the updated delivery ease information is acquired, the computer functions so that the previous delivery ease information is updated with the acquired delivery ease information. It is possible to always refer to the latest distribution ease information from other information processing apparatuses that receive distribution.

  Furthermore, the ease of distribution information itself can be acquired by another information processing apparatus that receives the distribution information and used to select the storage device that is the distribution source.

  Furthermore, since the ease information is information based on at least one of range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency, other information processing that receives distribution information distribution In the apparatus, it is possible to select a storage apparatus that is most easily received by corresponding to an actual distribution situation.

  In addition, since the ease information is point information obtained by scoring at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency or the second frequency, In the information processing apparatus, it is possible to select each storage unit as an objective numerical value and select a storage apparatus that is most likely to receive distribution.

  Further, since the computer functions so as to record the ease information in a state that can be referred to, it is easy to distribute objectively from other information processing apparatuses that receive the distribution information. Sex can be judged.

  Furthermore, since the computer functions to record the ease of delivery information including the ease of delivery information that is judged to be easy to deliver according to the ease of delivery standard, A storage device that can be easily distributed without being judged by another information processing device that receives the distribution can be easily selected by the other information processing device.

  In addition, since the computer functions so as to change the ease of distribution according to the number of storage devices that distribute distribution information, for example, even when one distribution information is distributed from a plurality of storage devices. It is possible to appropriately determine a storage device that can be easily distributed and receive the distribution.

  In order to solve the above problems, a computer is caused to function as an information processing apparatus.

  Therefore, the computer functions so as to receive the distribution information by referring to the distribution ease information and selecting the stored information to be distributed based on the referred distribution ease information. By selecting the storage device that is the distribution source of the distribution information based on the distribution ease information, it is possible to receive the distribution information efficiently and quickly.

  In addition, since the ease information is information based on at least one of range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency, the most easily corresponding to the actual distribution situation. A storage device that is easy to receive distribution can be selected.

  Furthermore, since the ease information is point information obtained by scoring at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency or the second frequency, each information is set as an objective numerical value. It is possible to select and select the storage device that is most likely to receive distribution.

  Furthermore, since the computer functions so that the ease information is scored and used for selecting the storage device, the ease of distribution can be objectively determined.

  Further, it is possible to search for delivery ease information including ease information that is judged to be easy to deliver the delivery information in accordance with the ease of delivery criteria, and to select a storage device based on the searched ease of delivery information. Since the computer functions, a storage device that can be easily distributed can be easily selected.

  Furthermore, since the computer functions to change the distribution ease criterion according to the number of storage devices that receive distribution information, for example, even when one distribution information is distributed from a plurality of storage devices. It is possible to appropriately determine a storage device that can be easily distributed and receive the distribution.

  Furthermore, when the connection state between the storage means currently connected and receiving distribution information becomes unstable, the next point is connected to the storage device indicated by the easy distribution ease information. Since the computer functions so as to receive the distribution information, the same distribution information can be continuously received even if the network becomes partially unstable.

  Also, when the connection with the storage means currently connected and receiving distribution information is disconnected, the distribution information is reconnected to the storage device indicated by the easy distribution ease information at the next point. Therefore, even if the connection with the previous storage device is disconnected, the same distribution information can be continuously received.

  In order to solve the above problems, a computer is caused to function as a storage device.

  Therefore, the computer functions to generate the storage device information and the distribution ease information and transmit them to the information processing device having the function of managing the distribution of the corresponding distribution information. In other information processing apparatuses, the storage apparatus that is the distribution information distribution source can be selected based on the distribution ease information in the other information processing apparatuses. It is possible to receive distribution information efficiently and quickly.

  Further, when new distribution information is stored in the storage device, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are respectively generated, and the newly generated storage device information and the ease of distribution information are respectively transmitted to the information processing device. Since the computer functions as described above, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information corresponding to the latest distribution information can be referred to other information processing devices in the information processing device for distribution information management.

  Furthermore, the computer functions so as to generate the ease of distribution information for each preset time and to transmit the newly generated information for ease of distribution to the information processing apparatus for managing the distribution information. Therefore, in the information processing apparatus for managing distribution information, the latest distribution ease information can be referred to other information processing apparatuses for each piece of distribution information.

  Furthermore, when the content of the ease information changes, the computer functions to newly generate the corresponding ease of delivery information and transmit the newly created ease of delivery information to the information processing apparatus. Therefore, in the information processing apparatus for managing distribution information, the latest distribution ease information can be referred to other information processing apparatuses for each piece of distribution information.

  In addition, since the ease information is information based on at least one of range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency, another information processing apparatus that receives distribution information distribution By referring to the ease of distribution information including the ease information, it is possible to cause the other information processing apparatus to select the storage device that is most likely to receive the distribution accurately corresponding to the actual distribution situation.

  Further, since at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency or the second frequency is scored and transmitted, it is objective in other information processing apparatuses that receive distribution information. It is possible to refer to the ease of distribution information so that the ease of distribution can be determined.

  As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are acquired and recorded so that they can be referred to from other information processing devices via the network. In other information processing apparatuses, a storage device that is a distribution information distribution source can be selected based on distribution ease information, and distribution information can be distributed efficiently and quickly.

  Therefore, even when there is a difference in the ease of distribution of distribution information among the storage devices, it is possible to select a storage device that is easy to distribute and distribute the distribution information quickly and efficiently.

  According to the invention described in claim 2, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 1, when the updated delivery ease information is acquired, the previous delivery is easy with the obtained delivery ease information. Since the sex information is updated, it is possible to always refer to the latest delivery ease information from another information processing apparatus that receives the delivery information.

  According to the invention described in claim 3, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 1 or 2, in another information processing apparatus that receives the distribution information, the distribution ease information itself is acquired and the distribution source Can be used to select the storage device.

  According to the invention described in claim 4, in addition to the effect of the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 3, ease information includes range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first Since the information is based on at least one of the frequency and the second frequency, the other information processing device that receives the distribution information selects the storage device that is most likely to receive the distribution in an accurate manner corresponding to the actual distribution status. can do.

  According to the invention described in claim 5, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 4, the ease information is at least one of range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency. Since this information is score information obtained by scoring a single value, in other information processing apparatuses that receive distribution information, it is possible to judge each information as an objective numerical value and select the storage apparatus that is most likely to receive distribution. it can.

  According to the invention described in claim 6, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 4, the ease information is recorded in a state that can be referred to in a state of being scored. It is possible to objectively determine the ease of distribution as viewed from the information processing apparatus.

  According to the invention described in claim 7, in addition to the effect of the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 6, the ease of determining that distribution of distribution information is easy in light of the standard of ease of distribution Since the ease-of-distribution information including the information is recorded so that it can be referred to, an easily-distributable storage device can be easily selected in the other information processing device without judgment in the other information processing device receiving the distribution information. Can do.

  According to the invention described in claim 8, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 7, the distribution ease criterion is changed according to the number of storage devices that distribute distribution information. Even when information is distributed from a plurality of storage devices, it is possible to appropriately determine a storage device that can be easily distributed and receive the distribution.

  According to the invention described in claim 16, since the distribution ease information is referred to, the stored information to be distributed based on the referred distribution ease information is selected and the distribution information is distributed. By selecting a storage device that is a distribution source of distribution information based on the distribution ease information, distribution information can be distributed efficiently and quickly.

  Therefore, even when there is a difference in the ease of distribution of distribution information among the storage devices, it is possible to select a storage device that is easy to distribute and receive distribution information quickly and efficiently.

  According to the invention described in claim 17, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 16, the ease information includes at least one of range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency. Since the information is based on any one of them, it is possible to select the storage device that is most likely to receive distribution in an appropriate manner corresponding to the actual distribution situation.

  According to the invention of claim 18, in addition to the effect of the invention of claim 17, the ease information is at least one of range information, maximum transmission rate, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency. Since this point information is obtained by converting one value into points, it is possible to determine each piece of information as an objective numerical value and select a storage device that is most susceptible to distribution.

  According to the invention described in claim 19, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 17, since the ease information is scored and used for selecting the storage device, it is possible to objectively determine the ease of distribution. Can do.

  According to the invention described in claim 20, in addition to the effect of the invention described in any one of claims 16-19, the ease of determining that distribution of distribution information is easy in light of the standard of ease of distribution Since searchability information including information is searched and a storage device is selected based on the searched distributionability information, it is possible to easily select a storage device that is easy to distribute.

  According to the invention described in claim 21, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 20, the distribution ease criterion is changed according to the number of storage devices that receive distribution information. Even when information is distributed from a plurality of storage devices, it is possible to appropriately determine a storage device that can be easily distributed and receive the distribution.

  According to the invention described in claim 22, in addition to the effect of the invention described in any one of claims 16-21, the connection between the storage means currently connected and receiving distribution information is provided. When the state becomes unstable, it is connected to the storage device indicated by the easy distribution ease information at the next point and receives distribution information distribution, so even if the network becomes partially unstable, the same The distribution information can be continuously received.

  According to the invention described in claim 23, in addition to the effect of the invention described in any one of claims 16 to 22, the connection with the storage means currently connected and receiving distribution information distribution Is disconnected, the distribution device is connected to the storage device indicated by the easy distribution ease information at the next point to receive the distribution information, so even if the connection with the previous storage device is disconnected The distribution of the same distribution information can be continuously received.

  According to the invention described in claim 10, since the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are generated and transmitted to the information processing device having a function of managing the distribution of the corresponding distribution information, By making the other information processing device refer to the storage device information and the ease of distribution, the other information processing device can select the storage device that is the distribution information distribution source based on the distribution ease information. Distribution information can be received efficiently and quickly.

  Therefore, even when there is a difference in the ease of distribution of distribution information among the storage devices, it is possible to select a storage device that is easy to distribute and distribute the distribution information quickly and efficiently.

  According to the invention described in claim 11, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 10, when new distribution information is stored in the storage device, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are respectively generated. Since the newly generated storage device information and ease of distribution information are transmitted to the information processing device, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information corresponding to the latest distribution information in the information processing device for distribution information management The information processing apparatus can be referred to.

  According to the invention of claim 12, in addition to the effect of the invention of claim 10 or 11, the delivery ease information is generated for each preset time and newly generated for each time. Since the delivery ease information is transmitted to the information processing device for managing delivery information, the latest delivery ease information can be referred to other information processing devices for each piece of delivery information in the information processing device for delivery information management.

  According to the invention described in claim 13, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 10 or 11, when the content of the ease information is changed, corresponding distribution ease information is newly generated, and the new Since the information on the ease of distribution is transmitted to the information processing apparatus, the latest information on the ease of distribution can be referred to other information processing apparatuses in the information processing apparatus for managing distribution information.

  According to the invention described in claim 14, in addition to the effect of the invention described in any one of claims 10 to 13, the ease information includes range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first Since the information is based on at least one of the frequency and the second frequency, it is possible to refer to the distribution ease information including the ease information by referring to the other information processing apparatus that receives the distribution information. Accordingly, the other information processing apparatus can select the storage apparatus that is most suitable for receiving the distribution.

  According to the invention described in claim 15, in addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 14, at least one value of range information, maximum transmission rate, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency. Therefore, it is possible to refer to the easiness of distribution so that the easiness of distribution can be objectively determined in another information processing apparatus that receives the distribution of the distribution information.

  According to the invention described in claim 24, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are acquired and recorded so that they can be referred from other information processing devices via the network. A storage device that is a distribution source of distribution information can be selected based on the ease of distribution information, and distribution of distribution information can be received efficiently and quickly.

  Therefore, even when there is a difference in the ease of distribution of distribution information among the storage devices, it is possible to select a storage device that is easy to distribute and distribute the distribution information quickly and efficiently.

  According to the present invention, the distribution ease information is referred to, and the distribution information is received by selecting the stored information to be distributed based on the referred distribution ease information. By selecting the storage device that is the distribution information distribution source based on the distribution information, the distribution information can be distributed efficiently and quickly.

  Therefore, even when there is a difference in the ease of distribution of distribution information among the storage devices, it is possible to select a storage device that is easy to distribute and receive distribution information quickly and efficiently.

  According to the present invention, since the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are generated and transmitted to the information processing device having the function of managing the distribution of the corresponding distribution information, the storage device information and By referencing the ease of distribution information to another information processing apparatus, it is possible to select a storage device as a distribution information distribution source based on the ease of distribution information in the other information processing apparatus, efficiently and quickly. Distribution information can be received.

  Therefore, even when there is a difference in the ease of distribution of distribution information among the storage devices, it is possible to select a storage device that is easy to distribute and distribute the distribution information quickly and efficiently.

  According to the invention described in claim 25, when the computer functions as the information processing apparatus described in claim 1, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are acquired, and these are obtained through the network as other information. Since the computer functions so as to be recorded so as to be referenced from the processing device, it is possible to select a storage device that is a distribution information distribution source based on the ease of distribution information in the other information processing device, Distribution information can be received efficiently and quickly.

  Therefore, even when there is a difference in the ease of distribution of distribution information among the storage devices, it is possible to select a storage device that is easy to distribute and distribute the distribution information quickly and efficiently.

  In addition, when the updated delivery ease information is acquired, the computer functions so that the previous delivery ease information is updated with the acquired delivery ease information. It is possible to always refer to the latest distribution ease information from other information processing apparatuses that receive distribution.

  Furthermore, the ease of distribution information itself can be acquired by another information processing apparatus that receives the distribution information and used to select the storage device that is the distribution source.

  Furthermore, since the ease information is information based on at least one of range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency, other information processing that receives distribution information distribution In the apparatus, it is possible to select a storage apparatus that is most easily received by corresponding to an actual distribution situation.

  In addition, since the ease information is point information obtained by scoring at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency or the second frequency, In the information processing apparatus, it is possible to select each storage unit as an objective numerical value and select a storage apparatus that is most likely to receive distribution.

  Further, since the computer functions so as to record the ease information in a state that can be referred to, it is easy to distribute objectively from other information processing apparatuses that receive the distribution information. Sex can be judged.

  Furthermore, since the computer functions to record the ease of delivery information including the ease of delivery information that is judged to be easy to deliver according to the ease of delivery standard, A storage device that can be easily distributed without being judged by another information processing device that receives the distribution can be easily selected by the other information processing device.

  In addition, since the computer functions so as to change the ease of distribution according to the number of storage devices that distribute distribution information, for example, even when one distribution information is distributed from a plurality of storage devices. It is possible to appropriately determine a storage device that can be easily distributed and receive the distribution.

  According to the present invention, the computer functions so as to receive the distribution information by selecting the stored information to be distributed based on the referenced distribution ease information. By selecting a storage device as a distribution information distribution source based on the above, distribution information distribution can be received efficiently and quickly.

  Therefore, even when there is a difference in the ease of distribution of distribution information among the storage devices, it is possible to select a storage device that is easy to distribute and receive distribution information quickly and efficiently.

  In addition, since the ease information is information based on at least one of range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency, the most easily corresponding to the actual distribution situation. A storage device that is easy to receive distribution can be selected.

  Furthermore, since the ease information is point information obtained by scoring at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency or the second frequency, each information is set as an objective numerical value. It is possible to select and select the storage device that is most likely to receive distribution.

  Furthermore, since the computer functions so that the ease information is scored and used for selecting the storage device, the ease of distribution can be objectively determined.

  Further, it is possible to search for delivery ease information including ease information that is judged to be easy to deliver the delivery information in accordance with the ease of delivery criteria, and to select a storage device based on the searched ease of delivery information. Since the computer functions, a storage device that can be easily distributed can be easily selected.

  Furthermore, since the computer functions to change the distribution ease criterion according to the number of storage devices that receive distribution information, for example, even when one distribution information is distributed from a plurality of storage devices. It is possible to appropriately determine a storage device that can be easily distributed and receive the distribution.

Furthermore, when the connection state between the storage means currently connected and receiving distribution information becomes unstable, the next point is connected to the storage device indicated by the easy distribution ease information. Since the computer will function to receive the distribution information,
Even if the network becomes partially unstable, it is possible to continuously receive the same distribution information.

  Also, when the connection with the storage means currently connected and receiving distribution information is disconnected, the distribution information is reconnected to the storage device indicated by the easy distribution ease information at the next point. Therefore, even if the connection with the previous storage device is disconnected, the same distribution information can be continuously received.

  According to the present invention, the computer functions to generate storage device information and distribution ease information and transmit them to an information processing device having a function of managing distribution of corresponding distribution information. Selecting the storage device that is the distribution information distribution source based on the distribution ease information in the other information processing apparatus by referring the storage apparatus information and distribution ease information to the other information processing apparatus in the information processing apparatus It is possible to receive distribution information efficiently and quickly.

  Therefore, even when there is a difference in the ease of distribution of distribution information among the storage devices, it is possible to select a storage device that is easy to distribute and distribute the distribution information quickly and efficiently.

  Further, when new distribution information is stored in the storage device, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information are respectively generated, and the newly generated storage device information and the ease of distribution information are respectively transmitted to the information processing device. Since the computer functions as described above, the storage device information and the ease of distribution information corresponding to the latest distribution information can be referred to other information processing devices in the information processing device for distribution information management.

  Furthermore, the computer functions so as to generate the ease of distribution information for each preset time and to transmit the newly generated information for ease of distribution to the information processing apparatus for managing the distribution information. Therefore, in the information processing apparatus for managing distribution information, the latest distribution ease information can be referred to other information processing apparatuses for each piece of distribution information.

  Furthermore, when the content of the ease information changes, the computer functions to newly generate the corresponding ease of delivery information and transmit the newly created ease of delivery information to the information processing apparatus. Therefore, in the information processing apparatus for managing distribution information, the latest distribution ease information can be referred to other information processing apparatuses for each piece of distribution information.

In addition, since the ease information is information based on at least one of range information, maximum transmission speed, number of distribution destinations, first frequency or second frequency, another information processing apparatus that receives distribution information distribution By referring to the ease of distribution information including the ease information, it is possible to cause the other information processing apparatus to select the storage device that is most likely to receive the distribution accurately corresponding to the actual distribution situation.
Further, since at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency or the second frequency is scored and transmitted, it is objective in other information processing apparatuses that receive distribution information. It is possible to refer to the ease of distribution information so that the ease of distribution can be determined.

It is a schematic diagram (I) which shows the outline | summary of the delivery system which concerns on embodiment, (a) is a schematic diagram which shows ID space in the said delivery system, (b) is a figure which illustrates index information. It is a schematic diagram (II) which shows the outline | summary of the delivery system which concerns on embodiment, (a) is a schematic diagram which shows the transmission state of the message in the said delivery system, (b) is transmission of the said message represented as a spanning tree. It is a figure which shows a state. It is a figure which shows the principle of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the outline structure of the node which concerns on embodiment common about a content holder etc. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement in the content holder which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the specific example of each parameter which comprises the ease information which concerns on embodiment, (a) is a figure which shows the specific example of the line | wire type information which concerns on embodiment, (b) is the congestion degree which concerns on embodiment It is a figure which shows the specific example of information, (c) And (d) is a figure which respectively shows the specific example of the frequency information which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the whole operation | movement in the root node and cache node which concern on embodiment. 5 is a flowchart (I) showing detailed operations in the root node and the cache node according to the embodiment, (a) is a flowchart showing an operation corresponding to a distribution source inquiry message in the cache node, and (b) is a distribution in the root node. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement corresponding to a former inquiry message. It is flowchart (II) which shows the whole operation | movement in the root node which concerns on embodiment, and a cache node, (a) And (b) is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement corresponding to the registration message in a root node, (c) and (d ) Is a flowchart showing the operation corresponding to the registration message in the cache node. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement in the requester which concerns on embodiment.

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below is a distribution system that distributes the content using a network such as the Internet, and the content is directly exchanged between terminal devices belonging to the network (in other words, In this embodiment, the present invention is applied to a distribution system in which content is shared among a plurality of terminal devices, that is, a so-called P2P (Pear to Pear) distribution system. In the following description, the terminal device is generally referred to as a “node”.

(I) Principle of the Present Invention First, before specifically describing the embodiment of the present invention, the principle of the present invention will be described together with an outline of a P2P type distribution system (hereinafter simply referred to as a distribution system) according to the embodiment. explain.

(A) Overview of Distribution System First, an overview of a distribution system according to an embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. 1 and 2 are schematic diagrams showing an outline of the distribution system.

  In general, when a specific node connected to the network acquires content stored in another node from the other node, it is necessary to know information about which node stores which content. There is. For example, when the network is the Internet, it recognizes a set of index information (for example, a title name of a movie) that can identify content and an IP (Internet Protocol) address of a node that stores the index information, and uses that IP address as a clue. It is necessary to exchange the desired content. Therefore, in a distribution system in which an unspecified number of nodes share content such as the distribution system according to the embodiment, each node recognizes index information of all the contents and the IP address of the node storing the contents. It is necessary to keep it.

  However, when the number of nodes connected to the network increases, the index information of all contents and the nodes storing the contents are stored because of the limitation of the physical recordable amount in each node. It is not realistic for each node to record the IP address of each node (for example, when 1 million nodes are connected to the network, the IP addresses for 1 million nodes are all connected to each other). It's not realistic to record it).

  Also, when each node records the index of all contents and the IP address of the node storing it, the power switch at each node in the network is frequently turned on / off (for example, the node is set by a personal computer). In this case, the power switch can be frequently operated). However, the IP address and the like recorded in each node are frequently updated, and it is practically difficult to operate the entire network.

  Therefore, in order to deal with the problems as described above, only the IP address of the minimum necessary node is recorded, and for other nodes that do not recognize the IP address, content to be distributed to that node A distribution system having a mechanism for transferring and delivering a message via another node has been studied, and one of them is a distribution system using a so-called DHT (Distributed Hash Table).

  Next, an outline of the distribution system using the DHT will be described.

  In the distribution system using the DHT, a node ID (Identification) for identifying each node is assigned to each node. At this time, the node ID is assigned a unique number for each node, that is, a number different from other nodes. This number has a number of bits (bit length) that can accommodate the maximum number of nodes in the network. More specifically, for example, when a 128-bit node ID is used, a maximum of 2128 = 340 × 1036 nodes can be connected in one network. The node ID is generally a hash value for a unique value for each node, such as an IP address assigned to the node itself, a so-called MAC (Media Access Control) address, or a serial number of the node itself. Use the value obtained by applying the function.

  Next, in the distribution system using the DHT, a unique content ID different from other contents is assigned to the content itself distributed by the distribution system. The bit length of the content ID is also the same as the bit length of the node ID. In general, the content ID includes title data indicating the title of the content, attribute data indicating the attributes of the data constituting the content, data for several bytes from the top of the data configuring the content, and the like. A value obtained by applying a hash function is used.

  Here, in relation to the fact that corresponding node IDs and content IDs are expressed with the same bit length, the nodes and content are assumed to be scattered in the same ring-shaped virtual ID space. Can think. That is, as shown in FIG. 1A in which one node is displayed with ● and one content is displayed with ○, the ring Rc to which the content belongs and the ring Rn to which the node belongs are virtually concentrically assumed. Further, if it is defined that the value of each ID increases counterclockwise in each ring Rc and Rn, it can be assumed that each node or each content exists without overlapping on each ring Rc and Rn. If each ID is expressed in 128-bit length as in the above example, the number of digits becomes too large. In FIG. 1A, for simplicity of explanation, the bit length of each ID is set to 32 bits. Expressed (the same applies hereinafter). Then, as described above, due to the use of the hash function in determining the value of each ID, each node and each content exist in a substantially distributed manner on each of the above rings Rc and Rn. Become.

  On the other hand, in the distribution system using the DHT, “a node that manages content to which a certain content ID is assigned is a node to which a node ID having a value closest to the value of the content ID is assigned”. ing.

  Here, “near” may be any definition as long as it is consistent in various provisions related to the distribution system. Specifically, for example, “a value that does not exceed the value of the content ID”. And having the smallest difference between values as IDs ”.

  More specifically, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, a node having a node ID value “A0334055” and a node having a node ID value “A03340FF” are adjacent to each other on the ring Rn. If it exists, the content ID value “A0334080” is managed by the node whose node ID value is “A0334055”. In FIG. 1A, the terminal information for managing the content of “◯” is indicated by an arrow extending from each “◯”. In this way, various contents can be managed by being distributed among a large number of nodes.

  At this time, “management” does not mean that the content assigned with the content ID is recorded therein, but recognizes the location of the node where the content is recorded (for example, an IP address). It means that The node where the content is actually recorded may be different from the managed node, or the content to be managed may be recorded in the managed node.

  The above-described content management node is referred to as a “root node”. The root node records index information consisting of a pair of a content ID indicating the content that is to be managed and the IP address of the node in which the content indicated by the content ID is recorded. Record so that it can be referred to by other nodes in the distribution system. In some cases, the index information includes the title of the content, the attribute (genre), and the like.

  In addition, when the content IDs indicating different contents are close to coincidence, and there is no other node having a node ID close to that value, a plurality of indexes corresponding to a plurality of contents by one root node Information will be recorded. Furthermore, when the same content is recorded in a plurality of different nodes and the node recording the same content is close to one root node by chance, The index information of a plurality of nodes each recording content is recorded. An example of the index information EX in the root node described above is shown in FIG.

  Further, a node that actually records each content itself is referred to as a “content holder”. At this time, since the content holder itself is a node, the node ID exists on the ring Rn in FIG.

  Next, in the distribution system using the DHT, the DHT (routing table) itself, which is one of the devices for eliminating the necessity for each node to record the IP addresses of all the nodes as described above, will be described. To do.

  In the DHT according to the embodiment, the ID space illustrated in FIG. 1 is subdivided while increasing the number of levels for each stepped level (for example, in the case of level 1, the ID space is divided into four). Routing information that describes a pair of a node ID of an arbitrary node and its IP address is described for each area (for each area subdivided in stages). For example, when the distribution source inquiry information for requesting the content distribution source information is transferred to the root node in which the index information is recorded, the inquiry information is transferred to the target root node while referring to the routing information. To do. That is, each time the level in DHT increases, the node ID of the routing destination matches the node ID of the root node to be reached one digit at a time, and the request information finally reaches the root node to be reached. Will do.

  In the distribution system using DHT, the inquiry information (query) as described above, distribution request information for requesting distribution of the content itself, a registration message described later, and the like are referred to as “message”. When the DHT having the above-described mechanism is used, the message can be efficiently transferred to the target node in the ID space as illustrated in FIG. In the following description, when a new content is recorded in the content holder, a message generated in the content holder is referred to as a registration message so that it can be discovered (published) from other nodes. A message transmitted from a requester described later to a root node or a cache node described later is referred to as a distribution source inquiry message.

  Here, as described above, since the value of the node ID of the root node is closest to the value of the node ID of the content holder that manages the content by the root node, the distribution source inquiry message is the distribution request. Immediately before the content holder requested by the message is reached, the root node that manages the content to be distributed is reached. Then, the root node that has received the distribution source inquiry message returns the IP address of the content holder storing the content requested by the distribution source inquiry message to the transmission source of the distribution source inquiry message. That is, from the index information (see FIG. 1B) recorded in the root node, the title indicating the content requested by the distribution source inquiry message, the attribute information, and the IP of the node as its content holder The address or the like is returned to the node that is the source of the distribution source inquiry message. By utilizing such DHT, the location of the desired content can be efficiently recognized at the distribution request source, for example. The node that is the content distribution request source described above is hereinafter referred to as a “requester”.

  Next, a description will be given of content registration processing when new content is accumulated in a certain node.

  When new content is stored in a node, that is, the content holder for that content, the content holder will publish that the content has been stored to other nodes in the distribution system.

  That is, when new content is stored in a certain node, the node that is a content holder for the stored content calculates a content ID corresponding to the content based on the title of the stored content.

  Next, the content holder transmits a registration message with a node having a node ID having the same value as the calculated content ID as a destination (regardless of whether or not the node having the node ID actually exists). This registration message includes the title indicating the content, the attribute information, the IP address of the node as the content holder, and the like, and is sent to the node as the destination of each level via each routing destination according to the description of the DHT. Sequentially transferred.

  When the node having the closest node ID is reached, the node recognizes that the node to which the registration message is to be transferred thereafter does not exist in the ID space. Recognizing that the node to be transferred is itself), the node to which the registration message arrives at this point becomes the root node for managing new content. Then, the node that becomes the root node records the content ID included in the registration message, the IP address indicating the content holder, the attribute information, and the like as index information EX illustrated in FIG. 1B.

  Next, the concept of “cache node” in the distribution system according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 to be described later, the root node is indicated by a double circle, the content holder is indicated by a circle marked with “X”, and the requester is indicated by a circle marked with “|” inside, which will be described later. A cache node is indicated by a circle with + in the inside, and other general nodes are indicated by a circle.

  When the distribution source inquiry message Qr from the requesters RQ1 to RQ3 is transferred to the root node RN (or content holder CH) by the routing using the DHT described above, the transfer route (in FIGS. 2A and 2B) 2 (a) is similar to the path followed by the registration message Qp (shown by the solid line in FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (b)) as shown in FIG. If the index information EX exemplified in FIG. 1B is also recorded in each node on the path (indicated by reference numeral CN in FIG. 2A), it corresponds to the distribution source inquiry message Qr passing through the path. Before the delivery source inquiry message Qr reaches the destination route node RN or the content holder CH. The response corresponding to the message Qr can be returned to the requesters RQ1 to RQ3.

  That is, the requesters RQ1 to RQ3 that request distribution of the content published in the distribution system transmit the distribution source inquiry message Qr that requests the IP address of the node (that is, the content holder CH) in which the content is recorded. Then, the distribution source inquiry message Qr is transferred to the routing destination described in the DHT in each node and approaches the root node RN. Finally, the route merges with the route of the registration message Qp from the content holder CH and reaches the root node RN.

  Here, when the path on the ring Rc shown in FIG. 2A is replaced with a tree structure, the result is as shown in FIG. 2B, which is referred to as “spanning tree” in the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the route of the distribution source inquiry message Qr transmitted from each requester RQ and the route of the registration message Qp transmitted from the content holder CH are in any node on these routes. It will eventually cross. Accordingly, the index information EX included in the registration message Qp is recorded in a temporarily recordable temporary recording area at each node on the route for reaching the root registration message Qp to the root node RN ( That is, the registration message Qp is transferred (temporarily cached). Then, a reply to the distribution source inquiry message Qr from the requester RQ is made before the distribution source inquiry message Qr reaches the root node RN from the node where the distribution source inquiry message Qr on the route to the root node RN has arrived. It can be done. A node that is a node other than the root node RN and temporarily stores the index information EX in this manner is hereinafter referred to as a “cache node” CN.

(B) Principle of the present invention Next, the principle of the present invention based on the above-described distribution system will be described with reference to FIG.

  The index information EX in the above-described distribution system is as illustrated in FIG. 1B, which includes information indicating the content itself corresponding to each index information EX (for example, FIG. 1B). Other than the title, genre, or director name, etc.), only the corresponding content ID and the IP address of the content holder CH as the storage device in which the content is recorded, and the like in the corresponding content holder CH itself Information on ease of content distribution was not included.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3, in the present invention, for each index information EX, the ease of distribution of content from the content holder CH in which the content corresponding to the index information EX is recorded. Information HP is added respectively. Then, when the requester RQ as another information processing apparatus refers to the index information EX together with the ease information HP, the requester RQ refers to the ease information HP and connects with priority from the content holder CH that is easily received. The distribution will be received. In the following embodiment, the index information according to the present invention to which the ease information HP is added is referred to as index information EXX. Further, in FIG. 3, index information EXX corresponding to a plurality of contents is recorded in a root node RN as one information processing apparatus, and a plurality of content holders CH that record the same contents are added to one content. The state where the index information EXX shown is recorded is illustrated.

  Further, as the parameters included as the contents of the ease information HP, specifically, range information 100 indicating the range on the network where the content holder CH in which the content requested to be distributed by the requester RQ is recorded exists. And congestion degree information 101 indicating the degree of congestion in each content holder CH (that is, the number of other nodes currently connected to the content holder CH), and the transmission path used to distribute the content from the content holder CH Line type information 102 indicating the type (in other words, the maximum transmission speed), frequency information 103 indicating the frequency of stoppage of power supply to each content holder CH, and content distribution for each content holder CH Processing has stopped (ie, the content holder CH Frequency information 104 that is considered to be a so-called time-out), and values of the above-described range information 100, congestion degree information 101, line type information 102, frequency information 103, and frequency information 104 will be described later. And score information 105 indicating the total score of values obtained by scoring by the method.

  Further, the index information EXX is recorded not only in the root node RN shown in FIG. 3 but also in the cache node CN as the information processing apparatus described above, and by referring to this, the requester RQ The return information RT corresponding to the distribution source inquiry message Qr can be returned to the requester RQ without the distribution source inquiry message Qr as the request information reaching the root node RN.

  In the case of the distribution system according to the present invention in which the same content is recorded in a plurality of content holders CH, the content is recorded in the distribution source inquiry message Qr together with the content ID indicating the content desired to be distributed. Information indicating the number of index information EXX corresponding to the content holder CH that is being requested and that is desired to be referred to from the requester RQ is included. In the requester RQ that has transmitted the distribution source inquiry message Qr, the content holder indicated by the index information EXX corresponding to the easiest distribution of the content among the plurality of referenced index information EXX Select CH to connect and receive distribution of the content.

  As described above, the index information EXX including the ease information HP according to the present invention is recorded by the root node RN and the cache node CN, respectively, so that a desired content can be quickly and easily prepared from the content holder CH that can be easily received. You can receive content distribution.

(II) Embodiment Next, an embodiment according to the present invention based on the above-described principle will be specifically described with reference to FIGS.

  First, a schematic configuration of a node according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the node according to the embodiment. In the present embodiment, the content holder CH, the requester RQ, the root node RN, the cache node CN, and other nodes basically have the same hardware configuration. The outline of the configuration of a general node N will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the node N included in the distribution system according to the embodiment includes a CPU having a calculation function, a working RAM (Random Access Memory), and a ROM (Read Only Memory) for recording various data and programs. And a recording unit 12 including an HDD or the like for recording and storing (storing) content data as the content itself, the index information EXX, the DHT, and other necessary programs. (The content data is recorded only in the recording unit 12 in the node N as the content holder CH before the distribution), the buffer memory 13 for temporarily storing the received content data, and the content data Encoded video data (video information) and audio data (audio information) From the decoder unit 14 that decodes (decompresses data, decodes, etc.), the video processing unit 15 that performs a predetermined drawing process on the decoded video data and outputs the video signal, and the video processing unit 15 A display unit 16 such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or a liquid crystal display for displaying an image based on the output video signal, and the decoded audio data after D / A (Digital / Analog) conversion into an analog audio signal Communication between the other node apparatus 1 through the network 8, the audio processing unit 17 that amplifies the signal by an amplifier or the like, the speaker 18 that outputs the audio signal output from the audio processing unit 17 as a sound wave, and the network 8 A communication unit 20 for performing control, and an instruction signal according to the instruction received from each user and an instruction signal according to the instruction. 1, an input unit (for example, a keyboard, a mouse, or an operation panel) 21 that outputs to the control unit 11. Are connected so that data can be exchanged between them.

  Then, when the CPU in the control unit 11 executes various programs recorded in the recording unit 12 or the like, the control unit 11 performs a requester RQ, a cache node CN, a root node RN, a content holder CH, or other general nodes. The overall operation as N is comprehensively controlled.

  When the node N is the content holder CH as the storage device according to the present invention, the control unit 11 functions as the first generation unit, the second generation unit, and the scoring unit according to the present invention, and the communication unit 20 Functions as transmission means according to the present invention. When the node N is the root node RN or the cache node CN as the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the control unit 11 performs the first acquisition unit, the second acquisition unit, the update unit, and the scoring according to the present invention. The recording unit 12 functions as a recording unit according to the present invention, and the communication unit 20 functions as a transmission unit. Further, when the node N is a requester RQ as another information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the control unit 11 functions as a reference unit, a selection unit, a search unit, and a scoring unit according to the present invention. 20 functions as a connection means according to the present invention.

  Next, the operation of each node N according to the embodiment will be described separately for the content holder CH, the root node RN, the cache node CN, and the requester RQ.

(A) Operation in Content Holder First, the operation in the content holder CH according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation in the content holder CH according to the embodiment, and FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a specific example of each parameter constituting the ease information HP according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the content holder CH according to the embodiment, first, when a new content for distribution (or a copy (replica) thereof) is recorded in the recording unit 12 in the content holder CH (step S1). ), The ease information HP at the time when the content is recorded in the recording unit 12 is generated (step S2), and a registration message Qp (see FIG. 3) including index information EXX including the ease information HP is generated as a root node. It is transmitted toward the node N to be RN (step S3).

  Here, FIG. 6 is specifically used for each parameter (range information 100, congestion degree information 101, line type information 102, frequency information 103 and 104, see FIG. 3) constituting the ease information HP according to the embodiment. I will explain.

  First, the range information 100 is specifically an ISP (Internet Service Provider) to which the content holder CH belongs, in other words, a range on the network where the content holder CH exists (illustrated in FIG. 1). This is an AS (Autonomous System) number indicating an area on the physical space, not an area on the ID space or a geographical area.

  Next, the line type information 102 is, as shown in FIG. 6A, specifically information indicating the type of line used when connecting the content holder CH to the network in the distribution system. The content is either an optical line, an ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), or a CATV (Cable Television) line. The number of points as the line type information 102 can be set as the number of distributions that can be simultaneously connected through the line. For example, when the line type is an optical line, the score as the line type information 102 is “15 points”, and when the line type is ADSL, the score as the line type information 102 is “6 points”. When the type is a CATV line, the score as the line type information 102 is “9 points”.

Next, with regard to the congestion level information 101, the number of contents that are currently being distributed at the same time in parallel is divided by the maximum number that can be simultaneously distributed on the line indicated by the line type information 102. The number obtained by multiplying the obtained value by “100” is the degree of congestion, and the degree of congestion is obtained by scoring it according to the range of the degree of congestion. More specifically, for example, in the case where the line is an optical line (the maximum number of simultaneous deliverables is “15”), assuming that currently five contents are actually being delivered simultaneously, The congestion level of
5 (current number of distributions) / 15 (maximum number of simultaneous distributions) x 100 = 33 (%)
It becomes.

  Then, the degree of congestion is scored according to the range, for example, as shown in FIG. In the case shown in FIG. 6 (b), the score is set higher because content distribution is easier as the degree of congestion is smaller.

  Furthermore, with respect to the frequency information 103, in the distribution system using the DHT, the contents are distributed and stored in each node N, and one or more contents are recorded in the recording unit 12 of almost all the nodes N. It becomes. As a result, there are many cases where a content in the content holder CH as another node N is accessed from a certain requester RQ. For this access, power is supplied to the content holder CH. In other words, the more content holders CH that are always supplied with power, the faster and more stable the content can be found from the requester RQ. However, the content holder CH is owned by another user, and the requester RQ (or the user who owns it) cannot manage the supply state of the power supply. Therefore, for example, the number of times the supply of power to the content holder CH is stopped within the past month is added to the ease information HP as the frequency information 103 corresponding to the content holder CH. More specifically, the frequency information 103 is obtained by scoring as shown in FIG. 6C, for example, according to the number of times the supply of the power supply has been stopped within the past month. In the case shown in FIG. 6 (c), the smaller the number of times the supply of power is stopped, the easier the content is distributed, and the higher the score is set.

  In addition, regarding the frequency information 104, the above-described timeout is generally necessary for the delivery processing from the content holder CH for some reason (there may be the reason on the content holder CH side or the reason on the requester RQ side). When the above time is required, if the distribution process is not completed even after a predetermined time has elapsed, the distribution process is forcibly terminated in the content holder CH as the timeout. In this case, the timeout may occur when the content data cannot be downloaded even if the predetermined time elapses in the requester RQ. On the other hand, the content data to be distributed from the content holder CH to the requester RQ may be changed. There is a case where a time-out occurs when a reply from the requester RQ to the transmission has not been passed for a certain period of time or longer, although the transmission has been performed. Since the number of times of the timeout can also be a parameter indicating the ease of distribution from the content holder CH, for example, the number of times that occurred within the past month (due to at least one of the content holder CH or the requester RQ) is scored. The converted information is included as the frequency information 104 in the ease information HP. More specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 6D, the frequency information 104 is obtained according to the number of times that a timeout has occurred in the corresponding content holder CH within the past month. In the case shown in FIG. 6D, the smaller the number of timeouts, the easier it is to distribute the content, and the score is set higher.

  Finally, the score information 105 is obtained by summing the scores of the range information 100, the congestion information 101, the line type information 102, and the frequency information 103 and 104 described above. As the score information 105, a score obtained by simply adding the scores of the range information 100 or the like may be used as the score information 105, or each parameter such as the range information 100 is weighted in advance. It is good also as a value as the score information 105 by adding above and normalizing the score so that the maximum score as the score information 105 becomes 100 points, for example. As an example of weighting at this time, for example, the weight of the range information 100 is 20/100, the weight of the congestion degree information 101 is 50/100, the weight of the line type information 102, and the frequency information 103 and 104 is 10/100, respectively. 100 is preferable.

  As described above, when the registration message Qp including the index information EXX to which the ease information HP including the parameters illustrated in FIG. 6 is added is transmitted to the node N to be the root node RN (step S3). Next, the timer in the timer (not shown) in the control unit 11 of the content holder CH that has transmitted the registration message Qp is started (step S4).

  Next, the content of any parameter (for example, the congestion degree information 101 that is most likely to change) that constitutes the ease information HP in the content holder CH while continuing the time measurement in the timer. Is changed by a predetermined threshold value (± 20% in the case of FIG. 5) or more (step S5), and if it has changed (step S5; Y), the content holder CH in the root node RN Is updated to the root note RN (step S8), and then the content recorded in the content holder CH (or its content) is updated. It is confirmed whether or not (duplicate) has been deleted from the recording unit 12 (step S9). Then, when it is erased (step S9; Y), the processing as the embodiment in the content holder CH is completed. On the other hand, when it is not erased yet (step S9; N), after the ease information HP is updated. The process returns to step S4 in order to start the time measurement in the new timer (step S8).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S5 that the content of any parameter constituting the ease information HP has not changed more than the corresponding threshold value (step S5; N), the process waits for another minute (step S6). Next, it is confirmed whether or not 15 minutes have elapsed since the start of time measurement in the immediately preceding step S4 (step S7).

  When 15 minutes have elapsed (step S7; Y), the root node is powered off regardless of whether or not the content of any parameter included in the ease information HP has actually changed. In order to cope with the possibility that the node has been changed to another node, the update registration message Qp is transmitted to the root node RN (step S8), and then the process proceeds to the determination of step S9. In step S7, if it is within 15 minutes from the start of timing (step S7; N), the above-described step S5 is performed again to confirm whether there is a change in the content of any parameter included in the ease information HP. Return to.

  By the operation as the content holder CH described above, new generation and update of the ease information HP accompanying the initial registration of the content are executed, and the index information EXX including it is recorded in the root node RN (and the cache node CN). Is done.

(B) Operations in Root Node and Cache Node Next, operations in the root node RN and the cache node CN according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 is a flowchart showing the overall operation in the root node RN and the cache node CN according to the embodiment, and FIGS. 8 and 9 are flowcharts showing detailed operations in the root node RN and the cache node CN, respectively.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the root node RN and the cache node CN according to the embodiment, first, some message (either a registration message Qp or a distribution source inquiry message Qr) is sent from any node N in the distribution system. When received (step S10), it is determined whether the message is a registration message Qp from the content holder CH or a distribution source inquiry message Qr from the requester RQ based on the node ID of the transmission source (step S10). S11).

  When the received message is the distribution source inquiry message Qr from the requester RQ (step S11; from the requester), the node N itself that received the distribution source inquiry message Qr (that is, the flowchart of FIG. 7). It is confirmed whether the node N) on which the operation indicated by is performed is the root node RN or the cache node CN (step S12).

  As a result, when the node N is the root node RN (step S12; route node), a reply process to the distribution source inquiry message Qr is performed as the root node RN (step S13), and the operation as the root node RN is performed. Exit. Details of the operation in step S13 will be described later.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S12 that the node N is the cache node CN (step S12; cache node), the cache node CN performs a reply process to the distribution source inquiry message Qr (step S14), and the cache The operation as the node CN is terminated. Details of the operation in step S14 will be described later in detail.

  On the other hand, when the received message is the registration message Qp from the content holder CH in the determination in step S11 (step S11; from the content holder), next, as in the determination in step S12, the registration message Qp. It is confirmed whether the node N itself that received the message is the root node RN or the cache node CN (step S15).

  Thereby, when the node N is the root node RN (step S15; root node), the received registration message Qp is the registration message Qp transmitted from the content holder CH at the time of new registration of content, or registered. Whether the registration message Qp is for updating the index information EXX corresponding to the completed content is confirmed based on the content or the like (step S16). When the received registration message Qp is a registration message Qp for new registration (step S16; registration), a registration process using the registration message Qp as the root node RN is performed (step S17), and the root node The operation as the RN is terminated. Details of the operation in step S17 will be described later in detail.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S16 that the received registration message Qp is an update registration message Qp (step S16; update), an update process using the registration message Qp as the root node RN is performed (step S18). ), The operation as the root node RN ends. Details of the operation in step S18 will be described later in detail.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S15 that the node N is the cache node CN (step S15; cache node), the received registration message Qp is the registration message Qp for new registration as in step S16. Or the registration message Qp for updating the index information EXX is checked based on the contents thereof (step S19). When the received registration message Qp is a registration message Qp for new registration (step S19; registration), a registration process using the registration message Qp as the cache node CN is performed (step S20), and the cache node The operation as CN ends. Details of the operation in step S20 will be described later in detail.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S19 that the received registration message Qp is an update registration message Qp (step S19; update), an update process using the registration message Qp as the cache node CN is performed (step S21). ), The operation as the cache node CN is terminated. Details of the operation in step S21 will be described later.

  Next, details of a reply process to the distribution source inquiry message Qr in the cache node CN as the step S14 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When a distribution source inquiry message Qr is received in a cache node CN (see FIG. 3) that records the same index information EXX as that of the root node RN, as shown in FIG. 8A, first, from the distribution source inquiry message Qr, The information indicating the index information EXX indicating the desired content in the requester RQ that transmitted it and the number of the index information EXX are extracted (step S30), and the index information EXX extracted from the distribution source inquiry message Qr is identified. It is confirmed whether or not the index information EXX having the same identification information as that to be recorded is actually recorded in the cache node CN (step S31). If the index information EXX corresponding to the desired content is not in the cache node CN (step S31; N), the necessary index information EXX is searched in the other root node RN or the cache node CN. Accordingly, the distribution source inquiry message Qr is transferred to the other root node RN or cache node CN (step S36), and the processing as the cache node CN according to the embodiment is ended.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S31 that the index information EXX corresponding to the desired content in the distribution source inquiry message Qr is found in the cache node CN (step S31; Y), then the distribution is performed. The range information indicating the range on the network where the requester RQ that transmitted the original inquiry message Qr is present is compared with the range information 100 included in the found index information EXX (step S32), and based on the comparison result Then, the score as the range information 100 is determined depending on whether or not the requester RQ and the content holder CH are in the same ISP, and the score as the score information 105 including the score of the determined range information 100 is determined. (Step S33).

  Then, the value of the score information 105 determined for each index information EXX and a threshold value (the distribution source corresponding to the score information 105 to be included in the index information EXX desired in the requester RQ by the distribution source inquiry message Qr) Whether or not there is a desired number of index information EXX including the score information 105 having a score equal to or higher than the threshold value as indicated by the distribution source query message Qr. Is confirmed (step S34).

  Accordingly, when the desired number of index information EXX including the score information 105 having a score equal to or higher than the threshold value does not exist in the cache node CN (Step S34; N), it is necessary in the other root node RN or the cache node CN. In order to search for the correct index information EXX, the distribution source inquiry message Qr is transferred to the other root node RN or cache node CN (step S36), and the processing as the cache node CN according to the embodiment is terminated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S34 that the desired number of index information EXX including the score information 105 having a score equal to or higher than the threshold exists in the cache node CN (step S34; Y), The index information EXX is returned to the requester RQ that has transmitted the distribution source inquiry message Qr (step S35), and the processing as the cache node CN according to the embodiment is terminated.

  Next, details of a reply process to the distribution source inquiry message Qr in the root node RN as the step S13 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the distribution source inquiry message Qr is received in the root node RN (see FIG. 3) that records the index information EXX similar to that of the cache node CN, as shown in FIG. 8B, first, it is recorded in the root node RN. For each index information EXX, the same processing as steps S30 to S33 shown in FIG. 8A is performed, finally the score as the range information 100 in each index information EXX is determined, and the determined range The score as the score information 105 including the score of the information 100 is determined for each index information EXX (step S33).

  Similarly, the same confirmation process as in step S34 shown in FIG. 8A is performed on the index information EXX recorded in the root node RN, and a score equal to or higher than the threshold included in the distribution source inquiry message Qr is obtained. When the desired number of index information EXX including the score information 105 is not present in the root node RN indicated by the distribution source inquiry message Qr (step S34; N), the distribution source inquiry message Qr exceeds the requested threshold value. Since the desired number of index information EXX including the score information 105 of the value cannot be found, it is returned to the requester RQ that has transmitted the distribution source inquiry message Qr that it should wait for a while (step S37), and the route according to the embodiment The process as the node RN ends.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S34 that the desired number of index information EXX including the score information 105 having a score equal to or higher than the threshold exists in the root node RN (step S34; Y), the desired number The index information EXX is returned to the requester RQ that has transmitted the distribution source inquiry message Qr (step S38), and the processing as the root node RN according to the embodiment is terminated.

  Next, details of the processing corresponding to the registration message Qp in the root node RN as the step S17 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 9A, when the registration message Qp for new registration is received at the root node RN (step S50), the index information EXX is recorded in the recording unit 12 together with the ease information HP included therein. (Steps S51 and S52), the process as the root node RN according to the embodiment is terminated.

  Next, details of the processing corresponding to the registration message Qp in the root node RN as step S18 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 9B, when the root node RN receives the registration message Qp for updating the ease information HP (step S55), the existing index information EXX indicating the same content as the index information EXX is transferred to the root node. The search is performed in the RN (step S56), the contents of the searched index information EXX are rewritten with the contents of the new index information EXX (step S57), and the process as the root node RN according to the embodiment is finished.

  Next, details of the processing corresponding to the registration message Qp in the cache node CN as step S20 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 9C, when the registration message Qp for new registration is received in the cache node CN (step S60), the index information EXX is recorded in the recording unit 12 together with the ease information HP included in the registration message Qp ( Further, the registration message Qp for new registration is transferred to the next cache node CN (step S63), and the process as the cache node CN according to the embodiment is finished.

  Finally, details of the processing corresponding to the registration message Qp in the cache node CN as step S21 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 9D, when the cache node CN receives the registration message Qp for updating the ease information HP (step S65), the existing index information EXX indicating the same content as the index information EXX is transferred to the cache node CN. The search is performed in the CN (step S66), the contents of the searched index information EXX are rewritten with the contents of the new index information EXX (step S67), and the update registration message Qp is transferred to the next cache node CN. (Step S68), the process as the cache node CN according to the embodiment is terminated.

(C) Operation in Requester Finally, the operation in the requester RQ according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the requester RQ according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in the requester RQ according to the embodiment, first, when an operation for requesting delivery of desired content by the user is executed in the input unit 21 in the requester RQ (step S70). Then, the control unit 11 in the requester RQ calculates a content ID indicating the content requested to be distributed (step S71), and further the number of index information EXX requesting reference (= content holder to be a distribution source of the content) The threshold value to be included in the distribution source inquiry message Qr is specifically determined by the number of CHs (step S72).

  Here, specifically regarding the relationship between the number of reference requests for the index information EXX and the threshold, for example, when the number of reference requests is only one, a content holder that is easier to distribute to improve redundancy. Since it is necessary to select a CH, the threshold is set to “90 points”, and when the number of reference requests is two or three, the distribution threshold may be somewhat low for one content holder CH. When “80 points” is set and the number of reference requests is four or five, the ease of distribution for one content holder CH may be even lower, so the threshold is set to “70 points” and the number of reference requests When the number is 6 to 9, the ease of distribution for one content holder CH may be lower, so the threshold is set to “60 points”, and similarly, the number of reference requests is ten or more. Huang threshold may be a "40-point" (step S72).

  When the threshold value as the distribution source inquiry message Qr is determined, next, the distribution source inquiry message Qr is transmitted to the root node RN on the spanning tree in the network in the distribution system according to the embodiment (step S73). Whether the desired index information EXX has been acquired as the transmission result (see step S35 in FIG. 8A or step S38 in FIG. 8B), or a message to wait for a while has been sent (FIG. 8 ( b) Confirm step S37) (step S74).

  When a desired number of pieces of index information EXX having a value of the score information 105 higher than the threshold included in the distribution source inquiry message Qr is obtained (step S74; list), the index information EXX in the obtained index information EXX Index information EXX having the highest value of the score information 105 is searched (step S77), connected to the content holder CH indicated by the searched index information EXX (step S78), and desired content is received (step S79). ).

  Then, during the distribution, whether or not all the data of the content to be distributed has been prepared is constantly monitored (step S80), and when all the data has been prepared (step S80; Y) according to the embodiment. The processing as the requester RQ is completed.

  On the other hand, in the determination of step S80, during the delivery of the desired content (step S80; N), next, the unit data constituting the content data (the transmission interval for each unit data is fixed). ) Is always monitored to see if it has deviated 10% or more from the predetermined interval for the content (step S81), and the interval deviation is maintained below 10%. (Step S81; N), the process returns to step S77 to continue distribution.

  On the other hand, in the determination of step S81, when the deviation of the delivery interval of the unit data has deviated by 10% or more from the reference (step S81; Y), the operation of the content holder CH itself that is the delivery source becomes unstable. It is determined that it is coming, the connection with the currently connected content holder CH is disconnected from the requester RQ side (step S82), and then from the acquired index information EXX (see steps S73 and S74), Next, index information EXX having a high score indicated by the score information 105 is searched (step S83) and connected to the content holder CH indicated by the newly searched index information EXX (step S84). The distribution is received (step S79).

  On the other hand, in the determination in step S74, if a message indicating that the distribution source inquiry message Qr should wait for a while is sent (step S74; please wait), a new time is passed after a certain amount of time has passed. Since there is a possibility that the index information EXX can be obtained, it is confirmed whether or not the distribution source inquiry message Qr is transmitted again (step S75). When the distribution source inquiry message Qr is transmitted again (step S75; Y), after waiting for a preset standby time (for example, 15 minutes) to elapse (step S76), the process proceeds to step S73. The distribution source inquiry message Qr having the same content as the previous time is transmitted to the root node RN on the spanning tree according to the embodiment (step S73). On the other hand, when it is determined in step S75 that the distribution source inquiry message Qr is not automatically retransmitted (that is, retransmitted by a user operation using the requester RQ) (step S75; N), The processing as the requester RQ according to the embodiment is completed as it is.

  As described above, according to the operations of the content holder CH, the root node RN, the cache node CN, and the requester RQ as the node N according to the embodiment, the index information EXX including the ease information HP is the network in the distribution system. Is recorded in the root node RN and the cache node CN so that they can be referenced from the requester RQ via the requester RQ, the content holder CH that is the content distribution source can be selected in the requester RQ based on the ease information HP, and the efficiency Content can be received efficiently and quickly.

  Therefore, even when there is a difference in the ease of distribution of content among the content holders CH, the content holder CH that can be easily distributed can be selected in the requester RQ, so that the content can be distributed quickly and efficiently.

  Further, when the ease information HP in the content holder CH is updated, the index information EXX stored in the root node RN and the cache node CN is updated with the index information EXX including the updated ease information HP. The latest ease information HP can always be referred to from the requester RQ that receives the content distribution.

  Furthermore, the requester RQ that receives the content distribution can acquire the index information EXX including the ease information HP and use it for selecting the content holder CH as the distribution source.

  Furthermore, since the ease information HP includes the range information 100, the congestion degree information 101, the line type information 102, and the frequency information 103 and 104 as parameters, the requester RQ that receives the content distribution has an actual distribution status. It is possible to select the content holder CH that is most likely to receive distribution in an appropriate manner.

  Further, since the ease information HP includes score information 105 obtained by scoring each of the range information 100, the congestion degree information 101, the line type information 102, and the frequency information 103 and 104, by referring to this, the requester RQ Therefore, it is possible to select the content holder CH that is most easily received by judging the ease of distribution as an objective numerical value.

  Further, since the index information EXX is selected in the requester RQ with reference to a preset threshold, the content holder CH that is easy to distribute without the complicated determination process in the requester RQ that receives the content is easily selected. be able to.

  Furthermore, since the threshold value is changed according to the number of content holders CH that are desired to be distributed, for example, even when one content is distributed from a plurality of content holders CH, a content holder CH that is easy to distribute It is possible to receive the distribution by appropriately judging a plurality of the items.

  Further, the ease information HP is updated every preset time (15 minutes in the embodiment) in the content holder CH, and the ease information HP newly generated every time is updated to the root node RN (and the cache). Node CN), it is possible to make the requester RQ refer to the latest ease information HP for each content.

  In the embodiment, as described above, the ease information HP is updated at a preset time, for example, after 15 minutes. However, besides this, the ease information HP is updated at a preset time. Also good.

  Further, in the requester RQ, when the connection state with the content holder CH that is currently connected to receive the content becomes unstable, the index information EXX including the easy information HP at the next point is easy. Since the content holder CH indicated by (2) is reconnected to receive the content distribution, even if the network becomes partially unstable, the same content distribution can be continuously received.

  In the above-described embodiment, the range information 100, the congestion degree information 101, the line type information 102, and the frequency information 103 and 104 are given as parameters constituting the ease information HP. If any one of the parameters is included, the effect of the present invention can be achieved. Here, the importance as the parameter is preferably, for example, range information 100> congestion level information 101> line type information 102 = frequency information 103 and 104.

  In the above-described embodiment, when a certain amount of deviation occurs in the reception interval of the unit data constituting the content data, it is determined that the connection with the content holder CH connected at that time has become unstable. In this case, the content holder CH to be distributed is switched. However, the content holder CH may be switched in the same manner when the connection is completely disconnected.

  Even in this case, even if the connection with the previous content holder CH is disconnected, the same content can be continuously received.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the content holder CH scores the congestion degree information 101, the line type information 102, and the frequency information 103 and 104 among the parameters constituting the ease information HP, but the requester RQ, The ease information HP can be scored at either the root node RN or the cache node CN. Further, although the root node RN or the cache node CN scores the range information 100 among the parameters constituting the ease information HP, the requester RQ may score it.

  At this time, if the entire ease information HP is transmitted to the requester RQ, the amount of data exchanged in the requester RQ increases. Therefore, only the score information 105 after scoring may be transmitted to the requester RQ. it can.

  In the embodiment described above, scoring in the ease information HP is performed by defining that the higher the score, the higher the ease of distribution. On the contrary, the lower the score, the higher the score. The scoring may be performed based on the definition that delivery is easy, and any scoring method may be used for the scoring as long as it is unified and meaningful in the distribution system. .

  Furthermore, the program corresponding to the flowcharts shown in FIG. 5 and FIGS. 7 to 10 described above is recorded in an information recording medium such as a flexible disk or a hard disk, or acquired and recorded via the Internet, etc. By reading and executing these with a general-purpose computer, it is also possible to cause the computer to function as the control unit 11 according to the embodiment.

  As described above, the present invention can be used in the field of content distribution via a network, and particularly when applied to the field of content distribution in a download format, a particularly remarkable effect can be obtained.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Control part 12 Recording part 13 Buffer memory 14 Decoder part 15 Image | video processing part 16 Display part 17 Audio | voice processing part 18 Speaker 20 Communication part 20
21 Input unit 22 Bus 100 Range information 101 Congestion level information 102 Line type information 103, 104 Frequency information 105 Score information Rc, RN Ring EX, EXX Index information CH Content holder RQ, RQ1, RQ2, RQ3 Requester RN Route node CN Cache node Qp registration message Qr distribution source inquiry message N node HP ease information RT reply information

Claims (25)

Storage that includes information processing devices as a plurality of node devices connected to each other via a network, and stores distribution information in any of the plurality of information processing devices by an overlay network generated by the plurality of information processing devices An information distribution system comprising the information processing apparatus that distributes and stores a plurality of pieces of distribution information distributed to the information processing apparatus as a device, and is one of the plurality of information processing apparatuses, the distribution information A storage node storing location information indicating the location of the storage device in the network, and a root node as an information processing device determined for each of the plurality of distribution information distributed and stored in the information distribution system,
The information processing apparatus as the root node is:
First acquisition means for acquiring storage device information including distribution information identification information for identifying the distribution information to be distributed and storage device identification information for identifying the storage device for storing the distribution information for distribution; ,
The ease information indicating the ease of distributing the distribution information identified by the distribution information identification information from the storage device identified by the storage device identification information, and the ease of distribution is indicated by the ease information. Second acquisition means for acquiring distribution ease information including the storage device identification information indicating the storage device in which the distribution information is stored;
The storage device information acquired by the first acquisition unit and the delivery ease information acquired by the second acquisition unit are associated with each other and recorded so as to be referred to from another information processing device via a network. Recording means;
An information processing apparatus comprising: The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
When the updated ease of distribution information is acquired by the second acquisition means, the ease of distribution information recorded in the recording means is updated with the ease of distribution information acquired by the second acquisition means. An information processing apparatus further comprising update means. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2,
An information processing apparatus, further comprising: transmission means for transmitting the recorded distribution ease information to the other information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The ease information includes range information indicating a range on the network where the storage device exists, a maximum transmission speed on a transmission path used for the distribution, and when the storage device is distributing the distribution information. The number of distribution destinations, the first frequency that is the frequency at which the supply of power to the storage device is stopped, or the second frequency that is considered that the distribution processing of the distribution information in the storage device is stopped An information processing apparatus that is information based on at least one of frequencies. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4,
The ease information is score information obtained by scoring at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission rate, the number of delivery destinations, the first frequency, or the second frequency. Information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4,
At least one value of the range information, the maximum transmission rate, the number of delivery destinations, the first frequency, or the second frequency constituting the ease information included in the obtained ease of delivery information The information processing apparatus further comprises scoring means for generating scoring information by scoring and recording on the recording means instead of the original ease information. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
Retrieval means for retrieving the ease of distribution information including the ease information indicating that the distribution information can be easily distributed with respect to a predetermined ease of distribution among a plurality of the ease of distribution information Further comprising
The information processing apparatus, wherein the recording unit records the retrieved distribution ease information so that the information processing apparatus can refer to the other information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7,
The search means changes the delivery ease criterion according to the number of the storage devices that deliver the delivery information, and searches the delivery ease information using the changed delivery ease criteria. Information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The information processing apparatus as the root node acquires the distribution information preferentially from the storage device that is easily received with reference to the ease information. In the information delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The information processing apparatus that distributes and stores the plurality of distribution information distributed to the information processing apparatus as a storage apparatus that stores the distribution information by using any one of the plurality of information processing apparatuses by the overlay network;
The plurality of pieces of distribution information stored in the information distribution system, each of which is one of the plurality of information processing devices, stores location information indicating the location of the storage device that stores the distribution information in the network The root node as the information processing apparatus determined by
In an information distribution system comprising:
The storage device
First generation means for generating storage device information including distribution information identification information for identifying the distribution information and storage device identification information for identifying the storage device;
Second generation means for generating easiness distribution information including easiness information indicating easiness in distributing the distribution information and the storage device identification information;
Transmitting means for transmitting the generated storage device information and distribution ease information to the root node as an information processing device determined for each of the plurality of distribution information;
A storage device comprising: The storage device according to claim 10, wherein
The first generation unit and the second generation unit generate the storage device information and the ease of distribution information, respectively, when new distribution information is stored in the storage device,
The transmission means transmits the generated storage device information and the ease of distribution information to the root node as the information processing device, respectively, when new distribution information is stored in the storage device. Storage device. The storage device according to claim 10 or 11,
The second generation means generates the delivery ease information every preset time,
The transmission unit transmits the newly generated ease of distribution information to the root node as the information processing device when the ease of distribution is generated every time. . The storage device according to claim 10 or 11,
The second generation means newly generates the corresponding delivery ease information when the content of the ease information changes,
The transmission device transmits the generated ease of distribution to the root node as the information processing device when the ease of distribution is newly generated. The storage device according to any one of claims 10 to 13,
The ease information includes range information indicating a range on the network where the storage device exists, a maximum transmission speed on a transmission path used for the distribution, and when the storage device is distributing the distribution information. The number of the distribution destinations, the first frequency that is the frequency at which the power supply to the storage device is stopped, or the frequency at which the distribution information distribution processing in the storage device is considered to be stopped. A storage device characterized by being information based on at least one of two frequencies. The storage device according to claim 14, wherein
It further comprises scoring means for scoring at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission speed, the number of distribution destinations, the first frequency, or the second frequency to obtain the ease information. A storage device characterized by. In the information delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The information processing apparatus that distributes and stores the plurality of distribution information distributed to the information processing apparatus as a storage apparatus that stores the distribution information by using any one of the plurality of information processing apparatuses by the overlay network;
The plurality of pieces of distribution information stored in the information distribution system, each of which is one of the plurality of information processing devices, stores location information indicating the location of the storage device that stores the distribution information in the network In an information distribution system comprising: the root node as an information processing device determined by
The information processing apparatus includes:
The storage device identification information for identifying the storage device that stores the distribution information to be distributed for distribution, and the ease of distributing the distribution information from the storage device identified by the storage device identification information Reference means for referring to the ease of distribution information including the ease information from the root node;
Selection means for selecting the stored information to be distributed based on the referred distribution ease information;
Connection means for connecting to the selected storage device via a network and receiving distribution of the distribution information;
An information processing apparatus comprising: The information processing apparatus according to claim 16,
The ease information includes range information indicating a range on the network where the storage device exists, a maximum transmission speed on a transmission path used for the distribution, and when the storage device is distributing the distribution information. The number of distribution destinations, the first frequency that is the frequency at which the supply of power to the storage device is stopped, or the second frequency that is considered that the distribution processing of the distribution information in the storage device is stopped An information processing apparatus that is information based on at least one of frequencies. The information processing apparatus according to claim 17,
The ease information is score information obtained by scoring at least one of the range information, the maximum transmission rate, the number of delivery destinations, the first frequency, or the second frequency. Information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to claim 17,
At least one value of the range information, the maximum transmission rate, the number of delivery destinations, the first frequency, or the second frequency constituting the ease information included in the referenced ease of delivery information Is further provided with scoring means for generating scoring information by scoring
The information processing apparatus, wherein the selection unit selects the storage apparatus that is to receive the distribution information based on the scoring ease information. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 19,
Retrieval means for retrieving the ease of distribution information including the ease information indicating that the distribution information can be easily distributed with respect to a predetermined ease of distribution among a plurality of the ease of distribution information Further comprising
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the selection unit selects the stored information to be distributed based on the searched distribution ease information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 20,
The search means changes the distribution ease criterion according to the number of the storage devices that should receive the distribution information, and searches the distribution ease information using the changed distribution ease criterion. Information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 21,
When the connection state with the storage device receiving distribution of the distribution information becomes unstable, the selection unit selects the connection state for the same distribution information out of the referred distribution ease information. The easiness of distribution including the easiness information indicating that distribution is easy next to the easiness of distribution indicated by the easiness of distribution indicated by the easiness of distribution including the storage device identification information indicating the storage device that has become unstable. The storage device indicated by the storage device identification information included in the information is newly selected,
The information processing apparatus, wherein the connection unit is connected to the newly selected storage device via the network and receives the distribution information. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 22,
When the connection with the storage device receiving distribution of the distribution information is disconnected, the selection unit disconnects the connection for the same distribution information among the referenced distribution ease information. Included in the ease of delivery information including the ease of delivery information indicating that delivery is easy following the ease of delivery indicated by the ease of delivery of information including the storage device identification information indicating the storage device. Newly selecting the storage device indicated by the storage device identification information,
The information processing apparatus, wherein the connection unit is connected to the newly selected storage device via the network and receives the distribution information. Storage that includes information processing devices as a plurality of node devices connected to each other via a network, and stores distribution information in any of the plurality of information processing devices by an overlay network generated by the plurality of information processing devices An information distribution system comprising the information processing apparatus that distributes and stores a plurality of pieces of distribution information distributed to the information processing apparatus as a device, and is one of the plurality of information processing apparatuses, the distribution information An information processing method in a root node as an information processing device that stores location information indicating the location of the storage device in the network for storing information and is determined for each of the plurality of distribution information distributed and stored in the information distribution system. And
A first acquisition step of acquiring storage device information including distribution information identification information for identifying the distribution information to be distributed, and storage device identification information for identifying the storage device for storing the distribution information for distribution; ,
The ease information indicating the ease of distributing the distribution information identified by the distribution information identification information from the storage device identified by the storage device identification information, and the ease of distribution is indicated by the ease information. A second acquisition step of acquiring distribution ease information including the storage device identification information indicating the storage device in which the distribution information is stored;
A record in which the storage device information acquired in the first acquisition step and the distribution ease information acquired in the second acquisition step are associated with each other and recorded so as to be referred to from another information processing device via a network. Process,
An information processing method comprising: Storage that includes information processing devices as a plurality of node devices connected to each other via a network, and stores distribution information in any of the plurality of information processing devices by an overlay network generated by the plurality of information processing devices An information distribution system comprising the information processing apparatus that distributes and stores a plurality of pieces of distribution information distributed to the information processing apparatus as a device, and is one of the plurality of information processing apparatuses, the distribution information Storing the location information indicating the location of the storage device in the network and storing the information in a computer of a root node as an information processing device determined for each of the plurality of distribution information distributed and stored in the information distribution system,
A first acquisition step of acquiring storage device information including distribution information identification information for identifying the distribution information to be distributed, and storage device identification information for identifying the storage device for storing the distribution information for distribution; ,
The ease information indicating the ease of distributing the distribution information identified by the distribution information identification information from the storage device identified by the storage device identification information, and the ease of distribution is indicated by the ease information. A second acquisition step of acquiring distribution ease information including the storage device identification information indicating the storage device in which the distribution information is stored;
A recording step of associating the storage device information acquired in the first acquisition step with the delivery ease information acquired in the second acquisition step so that the information can be referred to from another information processing device via a network. When,
A program characterized by having executed.

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