JP2009099203A - Auxiliary storage device, information processing device, information processing system, and information processing method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To distribute a processing load of a host equipment side by enabling a removable medium to apply prescribed data processing to data sent from the host equipment by cooperation between the removable media provided with a control part such as a CPU and the host equipment. <P>SOLUTION: In the information processing system, a removable media 2 includes a storage part 24 and a control part 21 provided with a data processing function 23; host equipment 1 includes: a storage part 15 holding a content file 16; and a control part 11 having a data processing function 14 applying data processing same as that of the data processing function 23 to the content file by executing a control program 25 held by the storage part 24; and a processing selection control function 12 selecting and controlling processing so as to apply data processing to the content file by either or both data processing functions 14, 23. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an auxiliary storage device having a data processing function, for example, and particularly to a technical field for selecting an optimum processing destination.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, various standards have been promoted for removable media that are auxiliary storage devices that can be attached to and detached from host devices and the like. For example, in one standard of this removable medium, studies are proceeding in a direction in which a high-performance CPU (Central Processing Unit) is mounted on the removable medium. With regard to such a technique, for example, in Patent Document 1, a central processing unit that compresses data into an image form in conjunction with an EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), and backs up and stores the compressed data, and a plurality of flash memories. A portable storage device having a flash memory unit for storing data compressed in an image form by a central processing unit is disclosed.

Special table 2003-529150

  However, in the above prior art, the main work of the CPU mounted on the removable medium is limited to the abstraction of the physical configuration of the flash memory in the medium and the data transfer work. In other words, the range of work by the CPU is currently limited.

  Further, in the above-described prior art, when a file is stored on a removable medium, it is necessary to perform a file management operation in accordance with the handling standard of the medium on the host device side using the medium. That is, for example, all operations such as embedding thumbnails when saving a still image file using a predetermined file name must be performed on the host device side.

  The present invention enables a removable medium to perform predetermined data processing on data sent from the host device by cooperation of the removable medium having a control unit such as a CPU and the host device. It is an object to increase compatibility with a host device, distribute processing load, and add value to merchandise.

  An auxiliary storage device according to a first aspect of the present invention is an auxiliary storage device that is detachable from an information processing device, and at least a storage unit that holds a control program, and reads and executes the control program to perform data processing. And a control unit that executes data processing of content files held in the information processing apparatus based on a command related to processing destination selection control from the information processing apparatus.

  Therefore, data processing is executed on the auxiliary storage device side based on processing destination selection control.

  An information processing apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention is an information processing apparatus in which an auxiliary storage device is detachable, and includes at least a storage unit that holds a content file and a control program that is held by the auxiliary storage device. When executed, the second data processing function for performing data processing equivalent to the first data processing function by the auxiliary storage device on the content file in the storage unit, the second data processing function, and the above A control unit having a processing destination selection control function for selecting and controlling a processing destination so as to perform data processing on the content file by one or both of the first data processing functions on the auxiliary storage device side.

  Accordingly, the processing destination is suitably selected and controlled by the auxiliary storage device and the information processing device.

  In the second aspect, the control unit selects and controls the processing destination based on the measurement value obtained by processing the sample data by the first and second data processing functions by the processing destination selection control function. You may do it. Or in this 2nd viewpoint, the said control part selects and controls a processing destination based on the class data which show the processing speed of the said 1st and 2nd data processing function by the said processing destination selection control function. It may be.

  In the second aspect, the data processing may include at least compression and expansion of the content file, encryption of the content file, and calculation of the hash value of the content file. Or in this 2nd viewpoint, the said control part may divide | segment the said content file, and you may make it select-control so that it may distribute and process a data by the said 1st and 2nd data processing function. Alternatively, in the second aspect, the control unit performs data processing of the same content file in parallel by the first and second data processing functions, and among the first and second data processing functions, The selection control may be performed so as to adopt the processing result of the function that has been processed first.

  An information processing system according to a third aspect of the present invention is an information processing system including an auxiliary storage device and an information processing device to which the auxiliary storage device is detachable. The auxiliary storage device has at least a control program. And a first control unit having a first data processing function for performing first data processing by reading and executing the control program, and the information processing apparatus includes: , By executing at least a second storage unit holding the content file and a control program held by the first storage unit with respect to the content file of the second storage unit A second data processing function that performs data processing equivalent to the data processing function, and the content file is processed by one or both of the second data processing function and the first data processing function. Comprising a processing destination selection control function which selects and controls the processing target to perform data processing for the Le, and a second control unit having a.

  Accordingly, the processing destination is suitably selected and controlled by the auxiliary storage device and the information processing device.

  In the third aspect, the second control unit performs processing based on the measurement value obtained by processing the sample data by the first and second data processing functions by the processing destination selection control function. You may make it select-control. Alternatively, in the third aspect, the second control unit selects a processing destination based on class data indicating processing speeds of the first and second data processing functions by the processing destination selection control function. You may make it control.

  In the third aspect, the data processing may include at least compression and decompression of the content file, encryption of the content file, and calculation of the hash value of the content file. Alternatively, in the third aspect, the second control unit may divide the content file and perform selective control so as to distribute and process data by the first and second data processing functions. Good. In the third aspect, the second control unit causes the first and second data processing functions to perform data processing of the same content file in parallel, and the first and second data processing. Of the functions, the selection control may be performed so as to adopt the processing result of the function that has been processed first.

  An information processing method according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is an information processing method by an information processing system including an auxiliary storage device and an information processing device to which the auxiliary storage device is detachable. At least a control program is held, and the control program is read and executed to perform first data processing. The information processing apparatus holds at least a content file, and executes the first data processing and the control program. A processing destination is selected and controlled so that data processing is performed on the content file by either or both of the second data processing equivalent to the first data processing performed by reading and executing.

  Accordingly, the data processing destination is selected and controlled by the auxiliary storage device and the information processing device.

  According to the present invention, it is possible for a removable medium to perform predetermined data processing on data sent from the host device by cooperation of the removable medium having a control unit such as a CPU and the host device. Thus, it is possible to provide an auxiliary storage device, an information processing device, an information processing system, and an information processing method that increase compatibility with a host device, distribute processing load, and thus add value to merchandise. .

  DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a best mode for carrying out the invention (hereinafter simply referred to as an embodiment) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  The first to seventh embodiments to be described later of the present invention are an auxiliary storage device that is a removable medium in which a control unit such as a CPU is mounted, an information processing device as a host device, and an information processing constituted by them. The present invention relates to a system and an information processing method that is an operation thereof.

  In each embodiment, when various data files (hereinafter simply abbreviated as files) are stored in an auxiliary storage device that is a removable medium, the control unit on the auxiliary storage device side stores the data file in the storage unit in the auxiliary storage device By executing the control program, a data processing function that conceptually includes file management and file format interpretation / conversion functions, etc., and automatically generates data processing results including format interpretation / conversion results, etc. One of them.

  Although details will be described later, the storage source file is processed as follows by the data processing function of the control unit on the removable media side.

  -Create thumbnail images for still image files and moving image files.

  ・ Video files are automatically converted to a highly compatible format.

  -Automatically create hash values and change history for document files.

  ・ Create PDF files automatically for document files.

  By the way, a host device using a conventional removable medium performs all data processing such as interpretation and conversion of each file format on the host device side.

  On the other hand, the information processing apparatus as a host device that uses the auxiliary storage device that is a removable medium according to the present embodiment performs data processing such as interpretation and conversion of the file format on the removable medium side after file transfer. be able to.

  At this time, data processing for the file such as interpretation and conversion of the file format may be performed based on an instruction from the information processing apparatus as the host device, or automatically performed on the removable media side as the file is added and updated. May be.

  Based on the above features, each of the first to seventh embodiments will be described in detail.

<First Embodiment>
First, FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a removable medium as an auxiliary storage device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, a host device as an information processing device, and an information processing system using them. The configuration of FIG. 1 is common to the first to sixth embodiments.

  Note that the information processing apparatus is not limited to a general personal computer, and conceptually includes various electronic devices such as an imaging apparatus and home appliances having an information processing function.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the host device 1 includes a control unit 11 and a storage unit 15. The control unit 11 performs the processing destination selection control function 12 by reading and executing a memory program conceptually included in the storage unit 15. The control unit 11 performs the data processing function 14 by reading and executing a control program 25 (indicated by reference numeral 13 on the control unit 21 side) stored in the storage unit 24 of the removable medium 2. Of course, when the host device 1 and the removable medium 2 are compatible, the storage unit 15 on the host device 1 side may hold the control program 25 in advance. In this example, a content file 16 and a host-side database (DB) 17 are stored in the storage unit 15 on the host device 1 side.

  The content file 16 is a kind of stored data such as a still image file or a moving image file. The host-side DB 17 stores attribute information about the content file 16 and the like. The storage unit 15 conceptually includes a hard disk drive (HDD), a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a flash memory, and the like.

  On the other hand, the removable medium 2 includes a control unit 21 and a storage unit 24. The control unit 21 performs the data processing function 23 by reading and executing the control program 25 (indicated by reference numeral 22 on the control unit 21 side) of the storage unit 24. The storage unit 24 stores a control program 25, a content file 26, and a media side DB 27. When the removable medium 2 is connected to a port (not shown) of the host device 1, each part on the host device 1 side and each part on the removable medium 2 side are connected to each other via the control bus 3 so as to be communicable.

  In such a configuration, when the control unit 11 of the host device 1 detects that the removable medium 2 is connected, the control unit 25 reads and executes the control program 25 stored in the storage unit 24 of the removable medium 2. The data processing function 14 can be performed. The data processing function includes various processes such as data compression / decompression, data encryption, and data hash (Hash) value calculation. Based on the processing destination selection control function 12, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side controls whether data processing is performed by either or both of the removable medium 2 and the host device 1.

  For example, with regard to data compression / decompression, files (data) are compressed and / or compressed on the optimal side of the host device 1 or the removable medium 2 or both under the control of the control unit 11 based on the processing destination selection control function 12. Stretched. For encryption, a combination of passwords and user authentication by biometric authentication can also be used. The calculation of the hash value of the data is performed on the optimal side or both of the host device 1 and the removable medium 2 under the control of the control unit 11 based on the processing destination selection control function 12.

  Here, the Hash value is a very short (for example, 20 bytes) value unique to each data content / length of the content file, and is stored in the media side DB 27 of the storage unit 24 of the removable medium 2. If the Hash value of the content file 16 in the storage unit 15 on the host device 1 side and the Hash value of the removable media 2 side content file 26 are the same, it can be confirmed that they are the same content file. That is, by using this Hash value, it is possible to search for content files and confirm identity.

  Here, the processing destination selection control function 12 of the control unit 11 will be further described.

  The control unit 11 on the host device 1 side performs data processing based on the processing destination selection control function 12 and how the control units 11 and 21 of the host device 1 and the removable medium 2 perform data processing based on the data processing functions 14 and 23. Are to be selected and controlled.

More specifically, for example, the processing destination is selected and controlled as follows.
-Divide the data and process both in parallel.

That is, the data may be divided finely and processed from the first half head to the host device 1 side and from the second half tail to the removable media 2 side. It is effective for data processing that can be divided, but cannot be applied to data processing functions that are premised on batch processing.
・ Compare sample data processing speed and use the high speed side.

That is, the control units 11 and 21 of both the host device 1 and the removable medium 2 may be made to process small sample data based on the data processing functions 14 and 23 and compare the processing speeds of the two. For example, actual data processing is performed by calling a function on the side that can process sample data at high speed. In this case, it is preferable to use sample data that is not easily affected by the algorithm or hardware configuration.
・ Compare class data and adopt the fast side.

That is, the host device 1 inquires class data (for example, numerical data) related to the processing speed of the removable medium 2 and compares it with class data related to its own processing speed. Thereafter, the function of larger class data (for example, numerical data) is called to execute actual data processing. Since the class data is prepared in advance, the sample data processing time can be omitted.
-Adopt on a first-come-first-served basis for actual processing

  That is, both the host device 1 and the removable medium 2 always process the actual data at the same time, and the previously completed result is adopted. If the completion is late, the process is canceled and the progress (processed data) is discarded. In this case, in the case of data processing that needs to be performed in a batch, when the processing speeds are competing with each other, it is possible to use the implementation that can process the fastest.

  The flow of data processing by the information processing system using the host device 1 as the information processing device and the removable medium 2 as the auxiliary storage device according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Will be explained. Note that all or part of the following processing corresponds to the information processing method according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  When the removable medium 2 is connected to the host device 1, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side detects it. When a desired file is selected by operating an operation unit (not shown) or the like, the control unit 11 of the host device 1 reads out the corresponding file from the storage unit 15 (step S1). Subsequently, the control unit 11 selects a processing destination of the read file based on the processing destination selection control function 12 (step S2). If the processing unit selection control function 12 determines that the control unit 11 does not have the function of executing the data processing, the control unit 11 requests the control unit 21 on the removable media 2 side to perform file processing (step S3). .

  Upon receiving this request, the control unit 21 on the removable media 2 side executes file processing based on the data processing function 23 and sends the processed file to be stored in the storage unit 24 (step S4). The storage unit 24 stores the processed file (step S5). In this way, a series of processing is completed.

  According to the first embodiment described above, it is possible to perform appropriate data processing on the removable media 2 side even when the host device 1 side does not have a data processing function. For example, this is effective when the host device 1 does not have a data processing function for compressing / decompressing still image files and moving image files.

<Second Embodiment>
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The configuration of the information processing system using the host device as the information processing device and the removable medium as the auxiliary storage device according to the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment (see FIG. 1). Therefore, here, the same components will be described using the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted. In the second embodiment, one file is divided into n (n = 1, 2, 3...) Packets, and the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side and the control unit 21 on the removable media 2 side are used. It is characterized in that data processing is performed in a shared manner.

  The flow of data processing by the information processing system using the host device 1 as the information processing apparatus and the removable medium 2 as the auxiliary storage device according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Will be explained. Note that all or part of the following processing corresponds to the information processing method according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  When the removable medium 2 is connected to the host device 1, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side detects it. When a desired file is selected by operating an operation unit (not shown) or the like, the control unit 11 of the host device 1 reads the corresponding file from the storage unit 15 (step S11). Subsequently, the control unit 11 divides the file into n (n = 1, 2, 3,...) Packets (data) based on the processing destination selection control function 12, and sets the processing destination of the data of each packet. Select (step S12). Then, the control unit 11 performs data processing on the predetermined number of packets 1, 2, 3,... From the head of the divided packets based on the data processing function 14 and stores the processed data in the storage unit 24. Send out (step S14). The storage unit 24 stores the processed data (step S15).

  In parallel with the data processing on the host device 1 side, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side sends a predetermined number of packets n, n−1 from the end of the divided packets to the control unit 21 of the removable medium 2. ,... Are requested to be sequentially processed by the data processing function 23 (step S16). Upon receiving this request, the control unit 21 on the removable media 2 side executes data processing based on the data processing function 23, and sends the processed data to be stored in the storage unit 24 (step S17). The storage unit 24 stores the processed data (step S18). In this way, a series of processing is completed.

  According to the second embodiment described above, it is possible to improve processing efficiency and processing speed by dividing a file and suitably performing distributed processing on the host device 1 side and the removable media 2 side. For example, it is effective when a moving image file or the like is divided in units of 1 GOP (Group Of Pictures) and distributedly processed on the host device 1 side and the removable media side.

<Third Embodiment>
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The configuration of the information processing system using the host device as the information processing apparatus and the removable medium as the auxiliary storage device according to the third embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment (see FIG. 1). Therefore, here, the same components will be described using the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

  In the third embodiment, the control units 11 and 21 of the host device 1 and the removable medium 2 process the sample data based on the data processing functions 14 and 23, and based on the measurement value that is the result. After selecting a suitable processing destination, one file is divided into n (n = 1, 2, 3...) Packets, and allocation to both data processing functions is determined based on the above measured values. The control unit 11 on the host device 1 side and the control unit 21 on the removable media 2 side share the processing based on the data processing functions 14 and 23.

  The flow of data processing by the information processing system using the host device 1 as the information processing device and the removable medium 2 as the auxiliary storage device according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Will be explained. Note that all or part of the following processing corresponds to the information processing method according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  When the removable medium 2 is connected to the host device 1, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side detects it. Then, the control unit 11 requests the data processing functions 14 and 23 to process sample data based on the processing destination selection control function 12 (step S21). For example, data stored in the storage unit 24 of the removable medium 2 can be used as the sample data, but it is needless to say that the sample data is not limited thereto.

  Upon receiving this request, each control unit 11, 21 performs sample data processing based on each data processing function 14, 23 (steps S 22, S 23). The data is sent to the function 12 (steps S24 and S25).

  When a desired file is selected by operating an operation unit (not shown) or the like, the control unit 11 of the host device 1 reads the file from the storage unit 15 (step S26). Subsequently, the control unit 11 divides the file into n (n = 1, 2, 3,...) Packets (data) based on the processing destination selection control function 12, and sets the processing destination of the data of each packet. It will be selected (step S27). At this time, based on the measured values of the data processing functions 14 and 23 previously obtained by the sample data processing, the packets divided so as to increase the processing efficiency are appropriately distributed to the data processing functions 14 and 23. .

  Then, the control unit 11 requests the data processing function 14 to process a predetermined number of packets 1, 2, 3,... From the head of the divided packets (step S28). 11 executes data processing based on the data processing function 14, and sends the processed data to be stored in the storage unit 24 (step S29). The storage unit 24 stores the processed data (step S30).

  In parallel with the data processing on the host device 1 side, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side sends a predetermined number of packets n, n− to the control unit 21 of the removable media 2 from the end of the divided packets. ,... Are sequentially processed by the data processing function 23 (step S31). Upon receiving this request, the control unit 21 on the removable media 2 side executes data processing based on the data processing function 23, and sends the processed data to be stored in the storage unit 24 (step S32). The storage unit 24 stores the processed data (step S33). In this way, a series of processing is completed.

  According to the third embodiment described above, the processing speeds of the data processing functions 14 and 23 of the control units 11 and 21 on the host device 1 side and the removable media 2 side based on the measured values when the sample data is processed. Etc., and based on the result, the file to be processed is appropriately divided and distributed, thereby improving the processing efficiency.

<Fourth embodiment>
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The configuration of the information processing system using the host device as the information processing device and the removable medium as the auxiliary storage device according to the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment (see FIG. 1). Therefore, here, the same components will be described using the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

  In the fourth embodiment, the control unit 11 of the host device 1 reads out the class data related to the processing speed and the like stored in advance in the removable medium 2 based on the processing destination selection control function 12, and stores it by itself. And a suitable processing destination is selected based on the comparison result, and then one file is divided into n (n = 1, 2, 3,...) Packets, and the above measured values are obtained. Based on this, the division to both data processing functions 14 and 23 is determined, and the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side and the control unit 21 on the removable media 2 side share the data processing.

  The flow of data processing by the information processing system using the host device 1 as the information processing device and the removable medium 2 as the auxiliary storage device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Will be explained. Note that all or part of the following processing corresponds to the information processing method according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  When the removable medium 2 is connected to the host device 1, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side detects it. Then, the control unit 11 requests the data processing function 23 of the removable medium 2 to transmit class data based on the processing destination selection control function 12 (step S41). Upon receiving this request, the control unit 21 on the removable media 2 side reads out the class data from the storage unit 24 by the data processing function 23 (steps S42 and S43), and the class data is processed in the processing destination selection control function on the host device 1 side. 12 (step S44).

  Based on the processing destination selection control function 12, the control unit 11 reads out the class data in the storage unit 15 in parallel (step S45).

  When a desired file is selected by operating an operation unit (not shown) or the like, the control unit 11 of the host device 1 reads the file from the storage unit 15 (step S46).

  Subsequently, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side divides the file into n (n = 1, 2, 3...) Packets (data) based on the processing destination selection control function 12 and also transmits each packet. A data processing destination is selected (step S47). At this time, based on the comparison result of the class data obtained earlier, the packet divided so as to increase the processing efficiency is appropriately distributed to the data processing functions 14 and 23. Then, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side requests the data processing function 14 to process a predetermined number of packets 1, 2, 3,... From the head of the divided packets (step S48). In response, the data processing function 14 executes data processing and sends the processed data to be stored in the storage unit 24 (step S49). The storage unit 24 stores the processed data (step S50).

  In parallel with the data processing on the host device 1 side, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side sends a predetermined number of packets n, n− to the control unit 21 of the removable media 2 from the end of the divided packets. 1 are sequentially processed by the data processing function 23 (step S51). Upon receiving this request, the control unit 21 on the removable media 2 side executes data processing based on the data processing function 23, and sends the processed data to be stored in the storage unit 24 (step S52). The storage unit 24 stores the processed data (step S53). In this way, a series of processing is completed.

  According to the fourth embodiment described above, the processing speeds of the data processing functions 14 and 23 of the control units 11 and 21 on the host device 1 side and the removable media 2 side are compared based on the class data, and the result Based on the above, it is possible to improve the processing efficiency by suitably dividing the file to be processed and performing the distributed processing.

<Fifth embodiment>
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The configuration of the information processing system using the host device as the information processing device and the removable medium as the auxiliary storage device according to the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment (see FIG. 1). Therefore, here, the same components will be described using the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

  The fifth embodiment is characterized in that the calculation of the Hash value is controlled to be performed by a suitable data processing function based on the processing load.

  The flow of data processing by the information processing system using the host device 1 as the information processing apparatus and the removable medium 2 as the auxiliary storage device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Will be explained. Note that all or part of the following processing corresponds to the information processing method according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  When the removable medium 2 is connected to the host device 1, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side detects it. Then, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side requests the data processing functions 14 and 23 to process sample data based on the processing destination selection control function 12 (step S61). As this sample data, for example, data stored in advance in the storage unit 24 of the removable medium 2 can be used, but it is not limited to this.

  When this request is received, the data processing functions 14 and 23 of the control units 11 and 21 perform sample data processing (steps S62 and S63), and the measurement values obtained as a result of this processing are processed by the control unit 11. The data is sent to the selection control function 12 (steps S64 and S65).

  Subsequently, the control unit 11 of the host device 1 specifies the calculation destination of the Hash value based on the processing destination selection control function 12 (step S66). Note that, as in the above-described fourth embodiment, the hash value calculation destination may be specified based on the comparison result of the class data.

  When a desired file is selected by operating an operation unit (not shown) or the like, the control unit 11 of the host device 1 reads the file from the storage unit 15 (step S66). Based on the processing destination selection control function 12, the control unit 11 requests the Hash value calculation destination to request calculation and storage (step S68). In this example, it is assumed that the data processing function 23 of the removable medium 2 is selected as the processing destination. Upon receiving this request, the control unit 21 calculates the Hash value based on the data processing function 23, and sends the Hash value and the file to be stored in the storage unit 24 (Step S69). The storage unit 24 stores the hash value and the file (step S70). In this way, a series of processing is completed.

  According to the fifth embodiment described above, the processing speeds of the data processing functions 14 and 23 of the control units 11 and 21 on the host device 1 side and the removable media 2 side based on the measured values when processing the sample data. It is possible to improve the processing efficiency by suitably determining the calculation destination of the Hash value based on the result.

<Sixth Embodiment>
Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The configuration of the information processing system using the host device as the information processing device and the removable medium as the auxiliary storage device according to the sixth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment (see FIG. 1). Therefore, here, the same components will be described using the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

  In the sixth embodiment, the control units 11 and 21 perform the processing based on the data processing functions 14 and 23 in parallel, and adopt the processing result of the data processing function 14 or 23 that has been processed first. The present invention is characterized in that it instructs the other data processing function to stop processing and instructs to discard the result (processed data) being processed.

  Hereinafter, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 7, the flow of data processing by the information processing system using the host device 1 as the information processing apparatus and the removable medium 2 as the auxiliary storage apparatus according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. Will be explained. Note that all or part of the following processing corresponds to the information processing method according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

  When the removable medium 2 is connected to the host device 1, the control unit 11 on the host device 1 side detects it. When a desired file is selected by operating an operation unit (not shown) or the like, the control unit 11 of the host device 1 reads the file from the storage unit 15 (step S71). Subsequently, the control unit 11 requests both of the data processing functions 14 and 23 for file processing based on the processing destination selection control function 12 (step S72).

  Upon receiving this request, the data processing functions 14 and 23 execute data processing (steps S73 and S74), and when the processing is completed, a processing completion notification is sent to the processing destination selection control function 12 (steps S75 and S76). In this example, it is assumed that the processing completion notification from the data processing function 14 is received first. Based on the processing destination selection control function 12, the control unit 11 requests the data processing function 14 that has received the processing completion notification to save the processed data (step S77). Upon receiving this request, the data processing function 14 sends the processed file to the storage unit 24 (step S78). The storage unit 24 stores the processed data (step S79). In this way, a series of processing is completed.

  Although not shown, at the timing when the processing completion notification is received, other data processing functions are instructed to stop the processing and discard the data being processed.

  According to the sixth embodiment described above, file processing is performed at the same time by the data processing functions 14 and 23 of the control units 11 and 21 on the host device 1 side and the removable media 2 side. Can be completed.

  As described above in detail, according to the first to sixth embodiments of the present invention, by proposing a new standard for removable media equipped with a high-performance CPU to be developed in the future, It is possible to add value to the merchantability of removable media by utilizing the capabilities of the CPU. Furthermore, an appropriate function based on each file format can be used without performing special care on the host device side.

  More specifically, the following added value can be provided.

  That is, for example, when a still image or a moving image is taken with an imaging device such as a digital camera and stored in a removable medium, a thumbnail image can be automatically created on the removable medium side. A format conversion result optimal for creating a DVD video can be obtained for the stored moving image. A database such as a hash value and a change history is created for the document file, and comparison with a past document or a document stored in another removable medium becomes easy. It is possible to automatically create a keyword list from a plurality of files such as documents and images by the function of the removable media, thereby facilitating the search. Then, a PDF file can be created for the document file, and a thumbnail / preview image can be created for the content file.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but the present invention is not limited to this, and it is needless to say that various improvements and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where data processing is performed on a file read from a storage unit such as an HDD has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the improved configuration shown in FIG. It is possible to perform the same processing on the data received via the communication control unit 18 and the data read via the driver 19 from the recording medium 20 such as a CD-R or DVD. Of course.

The block diagram of the information processing system using the host apparatus as an information processing apparatus which concerns on the 1st thru | or 6th embodiment of this invention, and the removable medium as an auxiliary storage device. 3 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of data processing by the information processing system using the host device as the information processing apparatus and the removable medium as the auxiliary storage device according to the first embodiment of the invention. 9 is a flowchart for explaining a data processing flow by an information processing system using a host device as an information processing apparatus and a removable medium as an auxiliary storage device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of data processing by an information processing system using a host device as an information processing apparatus and a removable medium as an auxiliary storage device according to a third embodiment of the invention. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of data processing by an information processing system using a host device as an information processing apparatus and a removable medium as an auxiliary storage device according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a data processing flow by an information processing system using a host device as an information processing apparatus and a removable medium as an auxiliary storage device according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of data processing by an information processing system using a host device as an information processing apparatus and a removable medium as an auxiliary storage device according to a sixth embodiment of the invention. The block diagram of the example of an improvement of the information processing system of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Host device, 2 ... Removable medium, 3 ... Control bus, 11 ... Control part, 12 ... Processing destination selection control function, 13 ... Control program, 14 ... Data processing function, 15 ... Storage part, 16 ... Content file, 17 ... host side DB, 21 ... control unit, 22 ... control program, 23 ... data processing function, 24 ... storage unit, 25 ... control program, 26 ... content file, 27 ... media side DB

Claims (14)

An auxiliary storage device that is detachable from the information processing device,
A storage unit for holding at least a control program;
A data processing function for performing data processing by reading and executing the control program is provided, and content files held in the information processing device are stored based on a command related to processing destination selection control from the information processing device. An auxiliary storage device comprising: a control unit that executes data processing. An auxiliary storage device is a detachable information processing device,
A storage unit for holding at least a content file;
Second data processing for performing data processing equivalent to the first data processing function by the auxiliary storage device on the content file of the storage unit by executing the control program held by the auxiliary storage device A processing destination selection that controls the processing so that data processing is performed on the content file by one or both of the function and the second data processing function and the first data processing function on the auxiliary storage device side An information processing apparatus comprising a control unit having a control function. The control unit selects and controls a processing destination based on a measurement value obtained by processing the sample data by the first and second data processing functions by the processing destination selection control function. Item 3. The information processing device according to Item 2. The said control part selects and controls a processing destination based on the class data which shows the processing speed of the said 1st and 2nd data processing function by the said processing destination selection control function. Information processing device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the data processing includes at least compression and expansion of a content file, encryption of the content file, and calculation of a hash value of the content file. 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit performs selection control so that the content file is divided and data processing is performed in a distributed manner by the first and second data processing functions. The control unit causes data processing of the same content file to be performed in parallel by the first and second data processing functions, and is based on a function that has been completed first among the first and second data processing functions. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein selection control is performed so as to adopt a processing result. An information processing system comprising an auxiliary storage device and an information processing device to which the auxiliary storage device is detachable,
The auxiliary storage device
A first storage unit holding at least a control program;
A first control unit having a first data processing function for performing first data processing by reading and executing the control program;
The information processing apparatus
A second storage unit for holding at least a content file;
Second data for performing data processing equivalent to the first data processing function on the content file in the second storage unit by executing the control program held by the first storage unit A processing function, a processing destination selection control function for selecting and controlling a processing destination so as to perform data processing on the content file by one or both of the second data processing function and the first data processing function, An information processing system comprising: a second control unit including: The second controller is
9. The processing destination is selected and controlled by the processing destination selection control function based on a measurement value obtained by processing the sample data by the first and second data processing functions. Information processing system. The said 2nd control part selects and controls a processing destination based on the class data which show the processing speed of the said 1st and 2nd data processing function by the said processing destination selection control function. 9. The information processing system according to 8. 9. The information processing system according to claim 8, wherein the data processing includes at least content file compression / decompression, content file encryption, and content file hash value calculation. 9. The information processing according to claim 8, wherein the second control unit performs selection control so as to divide the content file and distribute and process data by the first and second data processing functions. system. The second control unit causes data processing of the same content file to be performed in parallel by the first and second data processing functions, and the processing is completed first among the first and second data processing functions. 9. The information processing system according to claim 8, wherein selection control is performed so as to adopt a processing result obtained by the function. An information processing method by an information processing system comprising an auxiliary storage device and an information processing device to which the auxiliary storage device is detachable,
The auxiliary storage device
Hold at least the control program,
The first data processing is performed by reading and executing the control program,
The information processing apparatus
Hold at least content files,
Data processing is performed on the content file by either or both of the first data processing and the second data processing equivalent to the first data processing performed by reading and executing the control program. An information processing method characterized by selectively controlling a processing destination.

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