JPH0728735A - Multimedia network system - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To enable even a computer that has no function to store the multimedia data to perform communication of the multimedia data. CONSTITUTION:A client that is not connected to a file device stores the access information in the table information of a server to show a fact that a network 230 is occupationally used. Thus the client occupies the network 30 and produces the multimedia data to send this data to a server 220. The server 220 stores the received data in a file device 216 connected to the server 220. Then the information that shows a reading instruction to be given to the client of the transmitted side is stored in the table information 224. When the information showing a reading instruction to its own client is stored in the information 224, the access information is stored in the information 224. So that the network 230 is occupied and multimedia data stored in a file device 223 are read out and reproduced. Then the information showing the end of reading of the multimedia data is stored in the information 224.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a multimedia network system for communicating multimedia data including moving image data, and more particularly to a multimedia network system suitable for being constructed by using a small computer.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as a network system for communicating multimedia data including moving image data,
For example, there is a technique described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 3-126393.

This technique includes a plurality of communication terminals capable of inputting / outputting and storing multimedia data,
It consists of a network and a communication center that controls the communication terminals.When transmitting the multimedia data stored in itself, the communication terminal first communicates without sending the multimedia data. Only send requests to the center. Then, when the communication center receives the call origination request, it controls the connection with the communication terminal that is the transmission destination, and when the connection is established, calls the communication terminal that is the transmission source. The communication terminal that is the source is
Only after being called from the communication center, the multimedia data is transmitted to the destination communication terminal.

As a result, the communication center does not need to have a function of storing multimedia data, and the burden on the communication Santa can be reduced.

Further, since the communication terminal has a function of storing multimedia data, it is possible to transmit multimedia data with a variable transfer rate, and to flexibly respond to network traffic congestion conditions. Can correspond to.

[0006]

In the above-mentioned conventional technology, the communication terminal makes maximum use of the function of storing multimedia data, and only the transmission request is stored at the communication center, and the multimedia data to be transmitted. Is stored in the source communication terminal, and when the destination communication terminal is connected, a call from the communication center causes the source communication terminal to change to the destination. Multimedia data is transmitted to a communication terminal.

Therefore, in the above-mentioned conventional technique, when a small computer is used as a communication terminal, it is necessary to store the multimedia data in the small computer. However, the moving image data has a large capacity and is stored in the small computer. Due to its small capacity, multimedia data cannot be stored on a small computer.

Further, when transmitting one multimedia data to a plurality of communication terminals, it is necessary to perform connection control and transmission of the multimedia data by the number of the plurality of communication terminals which are the destinations, and the network and The load on the destination communication terminal increases.

Further, a communication form in which multimedia data are multiplexed and communicated on a network is often adopted, and when such a communication form is adopted, when a small computer is used as a communication terminal. , It is necessary to let a small computer perform multitask processing for monitoring network traffic and transmitting multimedia data.

It is an object of the present invention to enable a multimedia network system to be constructed using a small computer, so that even a computer that does not have a function of storing multimedia data is multimedia. It is to provide a multimedia network system that enables data communication.

In the present specification, multimedia data includes moving image data, and this moving image data, character data, graphic data, voice data, etc. are all digitized so that they can be handled integrally by a computer. is there. The moving image data is continuous image information that can convey the movement of an object, such as a television image.

In particular, by compressing / decompressing moving image data (and audio data), at least one or more moving image data (and audio data) can be communicated in real time to the network.

[0013]

To achieve the above object, the present invention provides a multimedia including a network and a plurality of computers connected to the network for communicating multimedia data including moving image data. In the network system, one computer (hereinafter referred to as a server) of the plurality of computers.
Has a first storage means capable of storing multimedia data and a second storage means for storing information relating to communication of multimedia data, and is not a server of the plurality of computers. Computer (hereinafter referred to as a client), input means for inputting multimedia data, compression means for compressing the multimedia data input by the input means, and multimedia data compressed by the compression means. A transmitting means for transmitting, a receiving means for receiving the multimedia data, an expanding means for expanding the multimedia data received by the receiving means, and an output means for outputting the multimedia data expanded by the expanding means. I have it.

Then, the transmitting means stores the multimedia data to be transmitted in the first storage means, and the transmission destination client identification information indicating the client as the transmission destination of the multimedia data is stored in the second storage. The receiving means transmits the multimedia data, and the receiving means stores the destination client identification information indicating its own client in the second storage means. By reading the multimedia data stored in, the multimedia data is received.

Further, the client may access the access information indicating that the network is occupied and used before the transmission means and the reception means start operating.
When the transmitting means and the receiving means complete their operations, the access control means for clearing the access information stored in the second storing means is provided.

The access control means determines whether or not the access information is already stored in the second storage means, and if it is not stored, the access information is stored and stored. If so, the input means and the receiving means are not operated.

Further, when the receiving means finishes reading the multimedia data, it is possible to store the reading end information indicating that the reading of the multimedia data has ended in the second storage means.

In addition to the transmission destination client identification information, the transmission means may include transfer rate information indicating a transmission rate of the multimedia data, storage destination information indicating a storage destination of the multimedia data, and the multimedia. The transmission source client identification information indicating the transmission source client of the media data may be stored in the second storage means.

[0019]

In the client, when transmitting the multimedia data, the input means inputs the multimedia data, the compression means compresses the input multimedia data, and the transmitting means compresses the multimedia data. The multimedia data is stored in the first storage means. At this time, the access control means stores the access information in the second storage means to occupy and use the network. It is possible.

The access control means prevents the input means from operating when the access information is already stored in the second storage means.

When it becomes possible to occupy and use the network, the transmission means stores the multimedia data to be transmitted in the first storage means, and the client identification information indicating the client as the transmission destination is stored in the first storage means. Stored in the second storage means.

The transmitting means, in addition to the client identification information, transfer rate information indicating a transfer rate of the multimedia data, storage destination information indicating a storage destination of the multimedia data, and the multimedia data. The transmission source client identification information indicating the transmission source client may be stored in the second storage means.

Then, the access control means clears the access information stored in the second storage means when the transmitting means finishes its operation.

On the other hand, when the client receives the multimedia data, the receiving means sets the destination client identification information indicating the own client to the second client.
Read the multimedia data stored in the first storage means when the multimedia data is stored in the storage means;
The decompression means operates to decompress the read multimedia data, and the output means operates to output the decompressed multimedia data. At this time, the access control means outputs the access information to the second information. It is possible to store the data in the storage means and occupy the network for use.

When it becomes possible to occupy and use the network, the receiving means reads the multimedia data stored in the first storage means.

When the receiving means finishes reading the multimedia data, the receiving means outputs the reading end information indicating that the reading of the multimedia data is completed so that the client as the sender can confirm the reading. It may be stored in the second storage means.

The access control means clears the access information stored in the second storage means when the operation of the receiving means is completed.

As described above, according to the present invention, even a client which does not have a function of storing multimedia data can perform communication of multimedia data.

Further, even when one multimedia data is transmitted to a plurality of clients, the operation of storing the multimedia data in the first storage means only needs to be performed once. The load can be reduced.

Further, by storing the access information in the second storage means, it becomes possible to grasp the occupancy status of the network. Therefore, in order to monitor the traffic, it is necessary for the client to perform multitask processing. Disappears.

When there are some clients that have the function of storing multimedia data as well as those that do not have the function of storing multimedia data, the latter client is
Since compressed multimedia data and read multimedia data can be stored, the access information stored by the former client is distinguished by distinguishing the access information stored by the former client from the access information stored by the latter client. If the priority is given to the information, the latter client interrupts the multimedia data communication when the former client starts the multimedia data communication while the former client is communicating the multimedia data. It becomes possible to construct a more flexible system.

[0032]

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

First, the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a multimedia network system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 1, 101 is a server for controlling communication of multimedia data, 102 to 105 are clients for communicating multimedia data, 106 is a file device connected to the server 101, and 107, 10.
8 is a file device connected to the clients 102 and 105 respectively, 109 is a network, 110 is the network 109, the server 101, and the client 102.
To 105 are connected to each other.

FIG. 2 shows a server 101 and a client 102.
10 is a configuration diagram of 105. FIG.

In FIG. 2, reference numeral 200 denotes a client that operates as an apparatus for creating and transmitting multimedia data, and corresponds to the clients 103 and 104 to which no file is connected in FIG. Two
Reference numeral 10 denotes a client that operates as a device that reads and reproduces multimedia data, and corresponds to the clients 102 and 105 to which the file devices 107 and 108 in FIG. 1 are connected.

Further, 220 is the server 101 in FIG.
1 is a server, 230 is a network corresponding to the network 109 in FIG. 1, and 231 is a network corresponding to FIG.
Is a transceiver corresponding to 110 in.

The server 220 includes a communication device 221 for communicating with the network 230, a file device 223 corresponding to the file device 106 in FIG. 1, a communication device 221, and a control device 222 for controlling the file device 223. It consists of and.

The file device 223 can store table information described later and multimedia data, and is realized by using a hard disk device or the like. Further, the control device 222 is realized by using a small computer including an operation input device such as a keyboard and a mouse. The file devices 223 and 236 are realized by using a hard disk device or the like. In addition, the network 230 includes a coaxial cable, a twisted pair cable,
It is realized by using an optical fiber, a wireless LAN, or the like.

The client 200 includes an input device 201 for inputting multimedia data, a compression device 202 for compressing multimedia data, a communication device 203 for communicating with the network 230, and access control for the server 220. It is composed of a table control device 205 that controls table information described later, an input device 201, a compression device 202, a communication device 203, and a control device 204 that controls the table control device 205.

The input device 201 is realized by using a video camera, a microphone, a scanner and the like. The compression device 202 is mainly realized by using software or a processor that compresses full-color still image data, digital moving image data, and the like. The control device 204 is realized by using a small computer including an operation input device such as a keyboard and a mouse.

The client 210 includes an output device 211 for outputting multimedia data, a decompressing device 212 for decompressing multimedia data, a communication device 213 for communicating with the network 230, and access control for the server 220. A table control device 215 for controlling table information, which will be described later, and a file device 216 corresponding to the file devices 107 and 108 in FIG.
The output device 211, the expansion device 212, the communication device 213, the table control device 215, and the control device 214 for controlling the file device 216 are included.

The file device 216 can store multimedia data and is realized by using a hard disk device or the like. Also, the output device 211 is
It is realized using a display, a speaker, a printer, and the like. The decompression device 212 is mainly realized by using software or a processor that decompresses full-color still image data, digital moving image data, and the like. Also,
The control device 214 is realized by using a small computer including an operation input device such as a keyboard and a mouse.

Next, the table information 22 in this embodiment.
4 will be described.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the table information 224.

In FIG. 3, table information 224 includes an area for storing access information 301, a client processing instruction 302, a multimedia data amount / transfer rate 303, a multimedia data storage destination / file name 3
04, multimedia data recording date and time 305, and an area for storing the multimedia data transmission source client 306.

The access information 301 indicates the client 20.
0 or 210 is information indicating whether or not the server 220 is being accessed, and is information indicating that the server is being accessed (for example, “1”) or information that is not being accessed (for example, “ 0 ”) is stored.

The multimedia data amount / transfer rate 303 is information indicating the data amount and transfer rate of multimedia data to be transmitted to the server 220, and the multimedia data storage destination / file name 304 is transmitted to the server 220. Server 2 for multimedia data
20 is information indicating the storage location and file name in the file device 223, and the multimedia data recording date and time 305 is information indicating the date and time when the multimedia data was transmitted to the server 220.

The multimedia data transmission source client 306 is information for identifying the client 200 which has transmitted the multimedia data to the server 220.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the client processing instruction 302.

In FIG. 4, the client processing instruction 30
2 is a multimedia data transmission destination client 40
1, multimedia data read instruction 402, multimedia data read end confirmation 403, comment 40
4 is composed of an area for storing 4.

The multimedia data transmission destination client 401 is information for identifying the client 210 from which multimedia should be read from the server 220.

Further, the multimedia data read instruction 402 indicates that the multimedia data transmission destination client 4
For the client 210 indicated by 01, the server 220
Information indicating that there is a read instruction (for example, “1”) or information indicating that there is no read instruction (for example, “0”). Is stored.

The multimedia data read end confirmation 403 is information for confirming that the client 210 indicated by the multimedia data transmission destination client 401 has read the multimedia data from the file device 223 of the server 220. Yes, information indicating that reading has been performed (for example, “1”) or information indicating that reading has not been performed (for example, “0”) is stored.

In the present embodiment having the above-described structure, the operation when the client 200 creates / transmits multimedia data and the client 210 reads / plays multimedia data will be described.

First, the operation when the client 200 creates / transmits multimedia data will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

The client 200 reads the table information 224 stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 by the table control device 205, and creates / transmits multimedia data according to the read table information 224.

That is, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5, first, it is confirmed whether or not the file device of the client 200 can be used for creating / recording multimedia data (step 501). In this embodiment, the client 200 does not connect a file device, so the process proceeds to step 510, and the table information 224 is checked in order to occupy the network 230 and send the multimedia data to the server 220 (step 509). ).

The contents of the check are table information 2
24 access information 301 is read, and the network 2
Check if 30 can be occupied. Access information 30
If 1 is “1”, it is impossible to occupy the network 230, and the process ends. If the access information 301 is “0”, it is possible to occupy the network 230. Therefore, the table control device 205 occupies the network 230 so that the access information 30 can be used.
1 is rewritten to "1" (step 510).

Subsequently, the client 200 inputs multimedia data from the input device 201 (step 5).
11) Until the operation input for ending the creation of multimedia data is received (step 513), the input multimedia data is compressed by the compression device 202, and the communication device 20
3, the data is transmitted to the file device 223 of the server 220 via the transceiver 231, the network 230 (step 512).

When there is an operation input for ending the creation of multimedia data (step 513), the table controller 20
5, the table information 224 of the server 220 is rewritten (step 514), and the process ends.

As the contents of rewriting the table information 224, in the client processing instruction 302, the multimedia data transmission destination client 401 stores the identification information of the client (here, the client 210) which is the transmission destination of the multimedia data. Then, “1” is stored in the multimedia data read instruction 402. Information indicating the amount of multimedia data and the transfer rate is stored in the amount of multimedia data / transfer rate 303, and the multimedia data storage destination / file name 304 is stored.
The information indicating the storage destination and the file name of the multimedia data is stored in, the information indicating the date and time when the multimedia data is transmitted is stored in the data recording date and time 305, and the multimedia data transmission source client 306 is stored in the client 200. Stores identification information. Then, finally, the access information 301 is rewritten to "0".

In the present embodiment, the client 200 to which the file device is not connected is the client for creating and transmitting the multimedia data, but the client 210 to which the file device 216 is connected also has the input device and the compression unit. If the device is provided, it can be a client that creates and transmits multimedia data.

The operation in this case is performed by the client 210.
Can confirm that the file device 216 of the client 210 can be used for creating / recording the multimedia data in step 501, the process proceeds to step 502 and until there is an operation input for ending the creation of the multimedia data (step 503), Input multimedia data from the input device, and input multimedia data
The data is compressed by the compression device and stored in the file device 216 (step 502). Then, when there is an operation input for ending the creation of the multimedia data (step 503), the table information 224 is checked to occupy the network 230 and send the multimedia data to the server 220 (step 504). In this case, the access information 301 of the table information 224 is read and it is confirmed whether the network 230 can be occupied. If the access information 301 is "1", it is impossible to occupy the network 230, and the process ends. If the access information 301 is “0”, the network 230 can be occupied. Therefore, the access information 301 is set to “1” so that the table control device 215 can occupy and use the network 230.
(Step 505).

Subsequently, the client 210 transmits the multimedia data stored in the file device 216 to the communication device 213 and the transceiver until the transmission of all the multimedia data stored in the file device 216 is completed (step 507). 231, via the network 230, to the file device 223 of the server 220 (step 506).

When the transmission of all the multimedia data stored in the file device 216 is completed (step 50)
7) The table control device 215 rewrites the table information 224 of the server 220 (step 508) and ends the process.

As the contents of rewriting the table information 224, in the client processing instruction 302, the identification information of the client to which the multimedia data is transmitted is stored in the multimedia data transmission destination client 401, and the multimedia data read instruction is issued. At 402,
Stores "1". Information indicating the multimedia data amount and the transfer rate is stored in the multimedia data amount / transfer rate 303, and information indicating the multimedia data storage destination and the file name is stored in the multimedia data storage destination / file name 304. The multimedia data recording date / time 305 stores information indicating the date / time when the multimedia data was transmitted, and the multimedia data transmission source client 306 stores the identification information of the client 210. And finally, access information 3
Rewrite 01 into "0".

Even if the file device 216 is connected to the client 210, the file device 216 may not have sufficient capacity or performance to store multimedia data. In such a case, the file device 216 is not available. You may perform the same process as the case of the client 200 which is not connected.

Next, the operation when the client 210 reads / reproduces multimedia data will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

The client 210 reads the table information 224 stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 by the table control device 215, and reads the multimedia data according to the read table information 224.

That is, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6, the client 210 causes the timer to periodically perform the subsequent processing (step 601). First, in order to confirm whether or not there is multimedia data to be read, the table information 224 is read, and in the client processing instruction 302 of the table information 224, the multimedia data transmission destination client 401
The identification information of its own client 210 is stored in the multimedia data read instruction 402.
It is determined whether "1" is stored (step 6).
02). Multimedia data destination client 40
If the identification information of the own client 210 is not stored in 1, the process ends, the identification information of the own client 210 is stored in the multimedia data destination client 401, and the multimedia data read instruction 402 If “1” is stored, the network 230 is occupied and multimedia data is stored in the server 220.
The table information 224 is checked in order to read from (step 603).

The contents of the check are table information 2
24 access information 301 is read, and the network 2
Check if 30 can be occupied. Access information 30
If 1 is “1”, it is impossible to occupy the network 230, and the process ends. If the access information 301 is “0”, it is possible to occupy the network 230.
It is determined whether 16 can be used for reading and recording multimedia data (step 604). In the present embodiment, since the client 210 is connected to the file device 216, the process proceeds to step 605 and the table control device 215 writes the access information 301 to “1” so that the network 230 can be occupied and used. Replace (step 605).

Subsequently, the client 210 is the server 2
20 until all the multimedia data stored in the file device 223 has been read and recorded (step 608).
1, the multimedia data stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 is read via the communication device 213 (step 606) and stored in the file device 216 (step 607).

When the reading / recording of all the multimedia data stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 is completed (step 608), the table control device 21.
5, the table information 224 of the server 220 is rewritten (step 609).

As the contents of rewriting the table information 224, in the client processing instruction 302, the multimedia data read instruction 402 corresponding to the multimedia data transmission destination client 401 in which the identification information of the own client 210 is stored is “0”. ",
In the confirmation 403 of completion of reading multimedia data,
Stores "1". And finally, the access information 30
Rewrite 1 into "0".

Then, the multimedia data stored in the file device 216 is expanded by the expansion device 212,
When the output from the output device 211 is completed (step 610) and the output of all the multimedia data stored in the file device 216 is completed (step 611), the process is completed.

In this embodiment, the file device 216
The client 210 connected to the client is a client for reading / playing multimedia data, but the client 200 not connected to the file device.
Also in this case, if the output device and the decompression device are provided, the client can read and reproduce the multimedia data.

The operation in this case is performed by the client 200
In step 604, since it can be confirmed that the file device of the client 200 cannot be used for creating / recording multimedia data, the process proceeds to step 612, and the table control device 215 causes the network 23
The access information 301 is rewritten to "1" so that 0 can be occupied and used (step 612).

Subsequently, the client 200 is the server 2
Until all the multimedia data stored in the file device 223 of 20 is read / recorded (step 615), the network 230, the transceiver 23
1, the multimedia data stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 is read via the communication device 203 (step 613), the read multimedia data is expanded by the expansion device, and output from the output device (step). 614).

When the reading / output of all the multimedia data stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 is completed (step 615), the table control device 20 is executed.
5, the table information 224 of the server 220 is rewritten (step 616), and the process ends.

As the contents of rewriting the table information 224, in the client processing instruction 302, the multimedia data read instruction 402 corresponding to the multimedia data transmission destination client 401 in which the identification information of the own client 200 is stored is “0”. ",
In the confirmation 403 of completion of reading multimedia data,
Stores "1". And finally, the access information 30
Rewrite 1 into "0".

Even if the file device 216 is connected to the client 210, depending on the contents of the table information 224, such as the amount of data / transfer rate 303, the file device 216 may have a sufficient capacity for storing multimedia data. In some cases, there is no performance, and in such cases,
The same process as in the case of the client 200 to which the file device is not connected may be performed.

Also, the clients 200 and 210 periodically read the table information 224, and when “1” is stored in the multimedia data read end confirmation 403 corresponding to the multimedia data transmission source client 306, the multimedia information is read. The multimedia data corresponding to the media data transmission source client 306 and the table information 224 regarding the multimedia data are cleared, or the server 220
Clears the table information 224 in which "1" is stored in the multimedia data read end confirmation 403 and the multimedia data related to the table information 224.

Since the client 200 to which the file device is not connected cannot store the created multimedia data in the file device, it must simultaneously create and transmit the multimedia data. "1" in access information 301
By storing, the network 230 can be occupied and the created multimedia data can be transmitted to the server 220. Further, since the multimedia data read from the server 220 cannot be stored in the file device, it is necessary to read and reproduce the multimedia data at the same time, but "1" is stored in the access information 301 of the table information 224. By doing so, the network 230 can be occupied and the multimedia data read from the server 220 can be reproduced.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, even the client 200 to which the file device is not connected can create / send multimedia data and read / play multimedia data. .

By storing the access information 301 in the table information 224, each client 200,
Since the occupancy of the network 230 of 210 can be grasped, it is not necessary to cause the clients 200 and 210 to perform multitask processing in order to monitor the traffic.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The configuration of the multimedia network system of this embodiment and the configurations of the server and the client are the same as those of the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

The structure of the table information of this embodiment is also
This is the same as the first embodiment shown in FIG. 3, but only the information stored in the access information 301 is different. That is, in this embodiment, the access information 301 is information indicating the priority of access from the clients 200 and 210 to the server 220, and between the client 200 and the server 220 to which no file device is connected. When performing communication of multimedia data, information indicating that priority is high (for example, “A”) is stored, and multimedia is transmitted between the client 210 and the server 220 to which the file device 216 is connected. When media data is communicated, information indicating that the priority is low (for example, “B”) is stored, and the client 20 is stored.
It is cleared when multimedia data communication is not performed between 0, 210 and the server 220.

In the present embodiment having the above-described structure, the operation when the client 200 creates / transmits multimedia data and the client 210 reads / plays multimedia data will be described.

First, the operation when the client 200 creates / transmits multimedia data will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

The client 200 reads out the table information 224 stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 by the table control device 205, and creates / transmits multimedia data according to the read table information 224.

That is, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7, first, it is confirmed whether the file device of the client 200 can be used for creating / recording multimedia data (step 701). In this embodiment, the client 200 does not connect a file device, so the process proceeds to step 712, and the table information 224 is checked to occupy the network 230 and send the multimedia data to the server 220 (step 710). ).

The contents of the check are table information 2
24 access information 301 is read, and the network 2
Check if 30 can be occupied. Access information 30
If 1 is “A”, it is impossible to occupy the network 230, and the process ends. If the access information 301 is “B” or cleared, the network 23
Since 0 can be occupied, the table control device 205 rewrites the access information 301 to "A" so that the network 230 can be occupied and used (step 711).

Subsequently, the client 200 inputs multimedia data from the input device 201 (step 7).
12) Until the operation input for ending the creation of multimedia data is received (step 714), the input multimedia data is compressed by the compression device 202, and the communication device 20
3, the data is transmitted to the file device 223 of the server 220 via the transceiver 231 and the network 230 (step 713).

When there is an operation input for ending the creation of multimedia data (step 714), the table control device 20
5, the table information 224 of the server 220 is rewritten (step 715), and the process ends.

As the contents of the rewriting of the table information 224, in the client processing instruction 302, the multimedia data transmission destination client 401 stores the identification information of the client (here, the client 210) which is the transmission destination of the multimedia data. Then, “1” is stored in the multimedia data read instruction 402. Information indicating the amount of multimedia data and the transfer rate is stored in the amount of multimedia data / transfer rate 303, and the multimedia data storage destination / file name 304 is stored.
The information indicating the storage destination and the file name of the multimedia data is stored in, the information indicating the date and time when the multimedia data is transmitted is stored in the data recording date and time 305, and the multimedia data transmission source client 306 is stored in the client 200. Stores identification information. And finally, the access information 301 is cleared.

In the present embodiment, the client 200 to which the file device is not connected is the client that creates and transmits the multimedia data. However, even in the client 210 to which the file device 216 is connected, the input device and compression are performed. If the device is provided, it can be a client that creates and transmits multimedia data.

The operation in this case is performed by the client 210.
Can confirm that the file device 216 of the client 210 can be used for creating / recording the multimedia data in step 701, the process proceeds to step 702 and until there is an operation input for ending the creation of the multimedia data (step 703). Input multimedia data from the input device, and input multimedia data
The data is compressed by the compression device and stored in the file device 216 (step 702). Then, when there is an operation input for ending the creation of the multimedia data (step 703), the table information 224 is checked to send the multimedia data to the server 220 using the network 230 (step 704). In this case, the access information 301 of the table information 224 is read and it is confirmed whether the network 230 can be used. If the access information 301 is “A”, it is impossible to use the network 230, and the process ends. If the access information 301 is “B” or cleared, the network 230 can be used. Therefore, the table control device 215 allows the table 230 to use the access information 30.
1 is rewritten to "B" (step 705).

The client 210 to which the file device 216 is connected temporarily stores the created multimedia data in the file device 216, and then
The multimedia data stored in the server 16 to the server 220.
Therefore, it is not always necessary to secure the transfer rate when transmitting multimedia data. Therefore, the client 2 to which the plurality of file devices 216 are connected
10 can transmit multimedia data in parallel by transmitting multimedia data more slowly than the transfer rate.

Subsequently, the client 210 transmits the multimedia data stored in the file device 216 to the communication device 213 and the transceiver until the transmission of all the multimedia data stored in the file device 216 is completed (step 710). 231, via the network 230, to the file device 223 of the server 220 (step 706).

At this time, the table information 224 is checked to determine whether or not the client 200 to which the file device is not connected is communicating multimedia data (step 707).

The contents of the check are table information 2
24 access information 301 is read, and the network 2
Check if 30 can still be used. If the access information 301 is “A”, the network 23
Since 0 cannot be used, the transmission of multimedia data is suspended until the access information 301 becomes "B" or cleared, and when the access information 301 becomes "B" or cleared, the step Proceeding to 708, the transmission of multimedia data is restarted. Also, access information 3
If 01 remains “B” or is cleared, it is possible to continue using the network 230, and the process proceeds to step 708 to continue the transmission of multimedia data.

When the transmission of all the multimedia data stored in the file device 216 is completed (step 70)
8), the table control device 215 rewrites the table information 224 of the server 220 (step 709), and the process is terminated.

The contents of the rewriting of the table information 224 are as follows: in the client processing instruction 302, the multimedia data transmission destination client 401 stores the identification information of the client which is the transmission destination of the multimedia data, and the multimedia data reading instruction. At 402,
Stores "1". Information indicating the multimedia data amount and the transfer rate is stored in the multimedia data amount / transfer rate 303, and information indicating the multimedia data storage destination and the file name is stored in the multimedia data storage destination / file name 304. The data recording date and time 305 stores information indicating the date and time when the multimedia data was transmitted, and the multimedia data transmission source client 306 stores the identification information of the client 200. And finally, the access information 301 is cleared.

Even when the file device 216 is connected to the client 210, the file device 216 may not have sufficient capacity or performance for storing multimedia data. In such a case, the file device 216 is not available. You may perform the same process as the case of the client 200 which is not connected.

Next, the operation when the client 210 reads / reproduces multimedia data will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

The client 210 reads the table information 224 stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 by the table control device 215, and reads the multimedia data according to the read table information 224.

That is, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8, the client 210 causes the timer to periodically perform the subsequent processing (step 701). First, in order to confirm whether or not there is multimedia data to be read, the table information 224 is read, and in the client processing instruction 302 of the table information 224, the multimedia data transmission destination client 401
The identification information of its own client 210 is stored in the multimedia data read instruction 402.
It is determined whether "1" is stored (step 8).
02). Multimedia data destination client 40
If the identification information of the own client 210 is not stored in 1, the process ends, the identification information of the own client 210 is stored in the multimedia data destination client 401, and the multimedia data read instruction 402 If "1" is stored, it is determined whether the file device 216 of the client 210 can be used for reading / recording multimedia data (step 803). In the present embodiment, the client 210 is connected to the file device 216, so step 804
Proceed to step 804 to check table information 224 for reading multimedia data from server 220 using network 230.

The contents of the check are table information 2
24 access information 301 is read, and the network 2
Check if 30 can be used. Access information 30
If 1 is “A”, the network 230 cannot be used, and the process ends. If the access information 301 is “B” or cleared, the network 23
Since 0 can be used, the table control device 215 rewrites the access information 301 to “B” so that the network 230 can be used (step 80).
5).

The client 210 to which the file device 216 is connected stores the multimedia data read from the server 220 once in the file device 216 and then reproduces the multimedia data stored in the file device 216. It is not always necessary to secure the transfer rate when reading the media data. Therefore, the client 210 to which the plurality of file devices 216 are connected can read the multimedia data in parallel by reading the multimedia data slower than the transfer rate.

Subsequently, the client 210 is the server 2
Until all multimedia data stored in 20 file devices 223 have been read and recorded (step 809), network 230, transceiver 23
1, the multimedia data stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 is read via the communication device 213 (step 806) and stored in the file device 216 (step 807).

At this time, the table information 224 is checked to determine whether or not the client 200 to which the file device is not connected is communicating multimedia data (step 808).

The contents of the check are table information 2
24 access information 301 is read, and the network 2
Check if 30 can still be used. If the access information 301 is “A”, the network 230
Since it is impossible to use, the reading / recording of multimedia data is suspended until the access information 301 becomes “B” or cleared, and the access information 301 becomes “B” or cleared, In step 809, reading / recording of multimedia data is restarted. Further, if the access information 301 remains “B” or is cleared, the network 230 can be continuously used. Therefore, the process proceeds to step 809, and the reading / recording of the multimedia data is continued.

When reading / recording of all the multimedia data stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 is completed (step 809), the table control device 21
5, the table information 224 of the server 220 is rewritten (step 810).

As the content of rewriting the table information 224, in the client processing instruction 302, the multimedia data read instruction 402 corresponding to the multimedia data transmission destination client 401 in which the identification information of the own client 210 is stored is “0”. ",
In the confirmation 403 of completion of reading multimedia data,
Stores "1". And finally, the access information 30
Clear 1.

Then, the multimedia data stored in the file device 216 is expanded by the expansion device 212,
When the output from the output device 211 is completed (step 811) and the output of all the multimedia data stored in the file device 216 is completed (step 812), the process is completed.

In the present embodiment, the file device 216
The client 210 connected to the client is a client for reading / playing multimedia data, but the client 200 not connected to the file device.
Also in this case, if the output device and the decompression device are provided, the client can read and reproduce the multimedia data.

The operation in this case is performed by the client 200.
Can confirm that the file device of the client 200 cannot be used for creating / recording the multimedia data in step 803, the process proceeds to step 813 to occupy the network 230 and read the multimedia data from the server 220. Table information 2
Check 24 (step 814).

The contents of the check are table information 2
24 access information 301 is read, and the network 2
Check if 30 can be occupied. Access information 30
If 1 is “A”, it is impossible to occupy the network 230, and the process ends. If the access information 301 is “B” or cleared, the network 23
Since 0 can be occupied, the table control device 215 rewrites the access information 301 to "A" so that the network 230 can be occupied and used (step 814).

Subsequently, the client 200 is the server 2
Until all the multimedia data stored in the file device 223 of 20 are read / output (step 817).
1, the multimedia data stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 is read via the communication device 203 (step 815), the read multimedia data is expanded by the expansion device, and output from the output device (step 815). 816).

When reading / outputting of all the multimedia data stored in the file device 223 of the server 220 is completed (step 817), the table control device 20 is executed.
5, the table information 224 of the server 220 is rewritten (step 818), and the process ends.

As the contents of rewriting the table information 224, in the client processing instruction 302, the multimedia data read instruction 402 corresponding to the multimedia data transmission destination client 401 in which the identification information of the own client 200 is stored is “0”. ",
In the confirmation 403 of completion of reading multimedia data,
Stores "1". And finally, the access information 30
Clear 1.

Even if the file device 216 is connected to the client 210, depending on the contents such as the multimedia data amount / transfer rate 303 of the table information 224, the file device 216 is sufficient for storing the multimedia data. In some cases, there is no capacity or performance, and in such a case, the same processing as in the case of the client 200 to which no file device is connected may be performed.

Also, the clients 200 and 210 periodically read the table information 224, and when the multimedia data read end confirmation 403 corresponding to the multimedia data transmission source client 306 stores “1”, the multi-media is read. The multimedia data corresponding to the media data transmission source client 306 and the table information 224 regarding the multimedia data are cleared, or the server 220
Clears the table information 224 in which "1" is stored in the multimedia data read end confirmation 403 and the multimedia data related to the table information 224.

Since the client 200 to which the file device is not connected cannot store the created multimedia data in the file device, it is necessary to create and transmit the multimedia data at the same time. "A" in access information 301
By storing, the network 230 can be occupied and the created multimedia data can be transmitted to the server 220. Further, since the multimedia data read from the server 220 cannot be stored in the file device, it is necessary to read and reproduce the multimedia data at the same time. However, “A” is stored in the access information 301 of the table information 224. By doing so, the network 230 can be occupied and the multimedia data read from the server 220 can be reproduced.

The client 210 to which the file device 216 is connected temporarily stores the created multimedia data and the multimedia data read from the server 220 in the file device 216 and then stores the multimedia data stored in the file device 216. Data to server 2
Table information 2 as it will be sent to and played back.
By storing “B” in the access information 301 of 24, the client 20 to which the file device is not connected
When 0 communicates multimedia data, the transmission and reading of multimedia data can be interrupted.

As described above, according to this embodiment, even the client 200 to which the file device is not connected can create / transmit multimedia data and read / play multimedia data. .

By storing the access information 301 in the table information 224, the network occupation status of each client 200 and the network usage status of the client 210 can be grasped. Therefore, in order to monitor the traffic, Client 20
It is not necessary to cause 0, 210 to perform multitask processing.

In the embodiment described above, the client processing instruction 302, multimedia data amount / transfer rate 30 in the table information 224 shown in FIG.
3, multimedia data storage destination / file name 304,
Although only one area for storing the multimedia data recording date / time 305 and the multimedia data transmission source client 306 is described, when a plurality of multimedia data is transmitted from one or a plurality of clients, The above area is described by the number of multimedia data.

Further, although only one client processing instruction 302 is described in FIG. 3, when one multimedia data is transmitted to a plurality of clients, the number of clients to be transmitted is equal to the number of clients to be transmitted. The processing instruction 302 may be described,
Further, there may be only one client processing instruction 302, and when one multimedia data is transmitted to a plurality of clients, the above areas may be described by the number of clients that are transmission destinations.

FIG. 9 shows an example in which one or more client processing instructions 302 are described, and FIG. 10 shows an example in which only one client processing instruction 302 is described.

Both FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 show the file name x sent by the client a to the clients b and c.
And the multimedia data of the file name y transmitted from the client d to the client b indicate the contents of the above area stored in the server.

[0135]

As described above, according to the present invention,
Even a client to which a file device is not connected can create / send multimedia data and read / play multimedia data.

Therefore, it is not necessary to connect a large capacity file device to all the clients, and the clients can be realized by using a small computer. Also, when sending multimedia data to multiple clients, the number of clients
Since it is not necessary to perform connection processing and data transfer processing with each client, data transfer efficiency is improved.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a multimedia network system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a server and a client.

FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of table information.

FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of a client processing instruction.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a multimedia data creation / transmission operation in the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a read / playback operation of multimedia data according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an operation of creating / transmitting multimedia data according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a read / playback operation of multimedia data in the second embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of table information when one or more client processing instructions are described.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of table information when only one client processing instruction is described.

[Explanation of symbols]

101, 220 ... server, 102, 104, 108, 2
23, 236 ... File device, 103, 105, 10
6, 107, 200, 230 ... Client, 109,
210 ... Network, 110, 211 ... Transceiver, 201 ... Input device, 202 ... Compressor, 203, 2
22, 233 ... Communication device, 205, 235 ... Table control device, 204, 222, 234 ... Control device, 224 ...
Table information, 301 ... Access information, 302 ... Client processing instruction, 303 ... Multimedia data amount / transfer rate, 304 ... Multimedia data storage destination / file name, 305 ... Multimedia data recording date and time, 30
6 ... Client for sending multimedia data, 401
... Multimedia data destination client, 402 ...
Multimedia data read instruction, 403 ... Confirmation of completion of multimedia data read, 404 ... Comment.

 ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page (72) Hiroyuki Sakai, Hiroyuki Sakai, 292 Yoshida-cho, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture Hitachi Ltd. Microelectronics Equipment Development Laboratory (72) Inventor Masataka, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 292 Yoshidacho, Hitachi, Ltd., Microelectronics Equipment Development Laboratory (72) Inventor Tetsuya Kawahara, 292, Yoshidacho, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Hitachi, Ltd. Microelectronics Equipment Development Laboratory (72) Inventor Takehiro Yamada 292 Yoshida-cho, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture Hitachi, Ltd. Microelectronics Equipment Development Laboratory

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. A multimedia network system, comprising: a network; and a plurality of computers connected to the network for communicating multimedia data including moving image data, comprising: , A server) has a first storage means capable of storing multimedia data and a second storage means for storing information relating to communication of multimedia data. A computer (hereinafter referred to as a client) other than the server among the input means for inputting multimedia data, a compression means for compressing the multimedia data input by the input means, and a compression means for compressing the compression means. Means for transmitting the stored multimedia data, And a receiving unit for receiving media data, a decompressing unit for decompressing the multimedia data received by the receiving unit, and an output unit for outputting the multimedia data decompressed by the decompressing unit. The means stores the multimedia data to be transmitted in the first storage means, and stores destination client identification information indicating a client to which the multimedia data is transmitted, in the second storage means. The multimedia data is transmitted, and the receiving means stores the multimedia stored in the first storage means when the destination client identification information indicating the own client is stored in the second storage means. Multimedia characterized by receiving multimedia data by reading data Tsu network system. 2. The multimedia network system according to claim 1, wherein the client, before the transmitting means and the receiving means start operating, access information indicating that the network is occupied and used. A multi-processor, characterized in that it has access control means for clearing the access information stored in the second storage means when stored in the second storage means, and when the transmitting means and the receiving means have completed their operations. Media network system. 3. The multimedia network system according to claim 2, wherein the access control means determines whether or not the access information is already stored in the second storage means, and if it is not stored. A multimedia network system, wherein the access information is stored, and when stored, the input means and the receiving means are not operated. 4. The multimedia network system according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein said receiving means, when the reading of the multimedia data is completed, said read completion information indicating that the reading of the multimedia data is completed. A multimedia network system characterized by storing in a second storage means. 5. The multimedia network system according to claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, wherein said transmitting means, in addition to said destination client identification information, transfer rate information indicating a transfer rate of said multimedia data, A multimedia network system, wherein storage destination information indicating a storage destination of the multimedia data and transmission source client identification information indicating a transmission source client of the multimedia data are stored in the second storage means. . 6. A multimedia network system comprising a network and a plurality of computers connected to the network for communicating multimedia data including moving image data, wherein one computer of the plurality of computers (hereinafter , A server) has a first storage means capable of storing multimedia data and a second storage means for storing information relating to communication of multimedia data. At least one of the computers (hereinafter, referred to as clients) other than the above-mentioned server is a third computer that can store multimedia data.
A client (hereinafter, referred to as a first client) that has the storage unit of No. 3 and does not have the third storage unit is an input unit for inputting multimedia data, and an input unit for inputting the multimedia data. Means for compressing the compressed multimedia data,
Transmission means for transmitting the multimedia data compressed by the compression means, reception means for receiving the multimedia data, decompression means for decompressing the multimedia data received by the reception means, and decompression by the decompression means. Output means for outputting multimedia data, and a client having the third storage means (hereinafter,
It is called a second client. ) Is an input means for inputting multimedia data, a compression means for compressing the multimedia data input by the input means, and storing the compressed multimedia data in the third storage means, and a storage means stored in the third storage means. Transmitting means for transmitting multimedia data, receiving means for receiving the multimedia data and storing it in the third storage means, decompressing means for decompressing the multimedia data stored in the third storage means, Output means for outputting the multimedia data decompressed by the decompression means, wherein the transmitting means of the first client and the transmitting means of the second client transmit the multimedia data to be transmitted to the first multimedia data. Stored in the storage means of the multimedia data, and stores the destination client identification information indicating the client to which the multimedia data is transmitted, The multimedia data is transmitted by storing it in the second storage means, and the receiving means of the first client and the receiving means of the second client have the destination client identification information indicating their own client as the second destination. A multimedia network system, wherein the multimedia data is received by reading the multimedia data stored in the first storage means when the multimedia data is stored in the storage means. 7. The multimedia network system according to claim 6, wherein the first client indicates that the network is occupied and used before the transmitting means and the receiving means start operating. Access information of No. 1 is stored in the second storage means, and when the transmitting means and the receiving means complete their operations, the first storage information is stored in the second storage means.
First access control means for clearing the access information of the second client, the second client, before the transmitting means and the receiving means start operating, and while the transmitting means and the receiving means are operating. Every predetermined period of
Second access information indicating that the network is to be used is stored in the second storage means, and when the transmitting means and the receiving means complete their operations, the second access stored in the second storage means. A multimedia network system having a second access control means for clearing information. 8. The multimedia network system according to claim 7, wherein the first access control means determines whether or not the first access information is already stored in the second storage means, If it is not stored, the first access information is stored. If it is stored, the input means and the receiving means are not operated, and the second access control means is the first access information. It is determined whether or not the information is already stored in the second storage means, and if it is not stored, the second access information is stored. If it is stored, the transmission means and the reception are performed. It is determined whether or not the first access information is stored in the second storage means while the means is not operating and the transmitting means and the receiving means are operating, and the first access information is not stored. In this case, the operation of the transmitting means and the receiving means is continued, and if stored, the operation of the transmitting means and the receiving means is suspended until the stored first access information is cleared. Characteristic multimedia network system. 9. A multimedia network system according to claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein said receiving means, when the reading of the multimedia data is completed, said read completion information indicating that the reading of the multimedia data is completed. A multimedia network system characterized by storing in a second storage means. 10. The multimedia network system according to claim 6, 7, 8 or 9, wherein said transmitting means, in addition to said destination client identification information, transfer rate information indicating a transfer rate of said multimedia data, A multimedia network system, wherein storage destination information indicating a storage destination of the multimedia data and transmission source client identification information indicating a transmission source client of the multimedia data are stored in the second storage means. .