CN1998198A - Publishing equipment, receiving equipment, tree-type publishing system, information processing method, etc. - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided are a processing device, a tree-type distribution system, a processing program, a recording medium, and the like, which are capable of reducing load concentration in a communication path in an upstream network while executing a request to a lower node device in the system. In a node apparatus arranged in a tree-type distribution system including a broadcast station apparatus for transmitting query information such as request reception start data for requesting transmission of response information such as selection node information to a plurality of node apparatuses, the query information is received from another node apparatus connected at a higher hierarchy level, and the query information is passed to still another node apparatus connected at a lower hierarchy level. The response result information is received from the other processing device, and response information of the node device itself is generated. Response result information generated from the response information and the generated response information contained in the response result information is returned to the other node apparatus connected to the higher hierarchy.

Description

Distribution apparatus, receiving equipment, tree-type distribution system and information processing method etc.

Technical field

[0001]

The present invention relates to equity (P2P) type delivery system, and more particularly, relate to tree-type distribution system and method thereof, wherein a plurality of levels are to form with a plurality of node devices that tree is connected to distribution apparatus by the distribution apparatus that is used to release news of highest level with via many communication paths, and wherein are published to the node of lower-level successively from the node of higher levels by releasing news of issuing of distribution apparatus.The present invention relates to treatment facility in equity (P2P) the type network system etc., be used for, return information is sent to highest equipment in response to inquiry from highest equipment.

Background technology

[0002]

This system is exactly so-called peer-type data content delivery system, and and the difference of client-server type data content delivery system be that sending the data content of (streaming) issue by stream is to send or receive between the node device as client computer.

[0003]

The example of a kind of flow data delivery system as this kind system disclosed in the patent documentation 1.And in this system, each node device has the topology information that is used for the recognition network annexation, and by using topology information, each node device can be connected to upstream (high-order level) node device of being discerned, the flow data that reception sends from upstream node equipment, and this flow data is transmitted (relaying) arrive downstream (low level level) node device.By doing like this, can prevent from visit is concentrated on certain computer such as server.

[patent documentation 1]

Japanese patent application 2003-169089.

Summary of the invention

The problem to be solved in the present invention

[0004]

But, in the two-way communication service of using such tree-type distribution system, when distribution apparatus was collected in response to the query messages that is published to each node device by distribution apparatus response message from each node device, it was feasible that these responses are delivered to this method of distribution apparatus that is positioned on the highest level successively.

[0005]

But, in the method, send simultaneously at great deal of nodes equipment under the situation of response message, exist these response messages in the short period, to be accumulated on the node device of higher levels or on the distribution apparatus.Particularly the uplink and downlink communication bandwidth at the communication line between each node device is under the situation of asynchronous ADSL (asynchronous digital subscriber line).The communication bandwidth of up direction (towards the node device of higher levels) is narrower than the communication bandwidth of down direction (towards the node device of lower-level).The possibility that therefore delay takes place in the transmission of response message is higher.Therefore, be used for when node device is collected response message, prescribing a time limit when being provided with, the response message that exists from the node device that has used the communication line with this transmission lag can not arrive the such problem of distribution apparatus on time, and therefore can't obtain the advantage of two-way communication service.

[0006]

In addition, as second problem to be solved, when such computer network system is applied to requestor, wherein broadcasting equipment will ask reception information to send to downstream node equipment, and downstream node equipment sends to broadcasting equipment together with all requests.IP (Internet Protocol) network and downstream node at broadcasting equipment and node device formation broad send to request under the situation of broadcasting equipment simultaneously, can be created in and have big traffic load on upstream (high-order level) communication path of IP network, and greatly (in other words offered load becomes, the upstream ip router of the network that uses and the frequency gets higher of communication path), and the processing load of upstream node equipment becomes big this problem.

[0007]

Consider the problems referred to above, the purpose of this invention is to provide a kind of distribution apparatus, receiving equipment, tree-type distribution system and information processing method in having the tree issue that to collect response message more efficiently.

[0008]

In addition, consider above-mentioned second problem, the purpose of this invention is to provide a kind of treatment facility, tree network system, handling procedure and recording method, it can carry out the request to high-order level equipment simultaneously, reduces in the communication path that is concentrated in the network upstream simultaneously and the load on the upstream node equipment.

The device that is used to deal with problems

[0009]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 1 what the present invention is directed to is to be used to issue release news and as the distribution apparatus of the part of tree-type distribution system, wherein this tree-type distribution system is received by described distribution apparatus and being used to that the described a plurality of receiving equipments that release news form, wherein said equipment via many communication paths with tree-like connection, and described distribution apparatus has formed highest level, and described a plurality of receiving equipment has formed a plurality of levels, so that be delivered to described receiving equipment in the lower-level from the release news described receiving equipment from higher levels successively of described distribution apparatus issue described, this distribution apparatus has: first distributing device that releases news, be used to issue first and release news, release news and be distributed to described receiving equipment on many communication paths so that include described first of query messages; The receiving equipment choice device, be used to select to be connected to the described receiving equipment that described distribution apparatus and following second releases news and will be published to, described second releases news include be used to collect by each described receiving equipment that generate with the collection message corresponding response message of described query messages; Second distributing device that releases news, being used for releasing news described second is published to a receiving equipment of described selection, releases news so that transmit described second successively via a communication path in described many communication paths; And acquisition of information receiving system, be used to receive following acquisition of information, described acquisition of information be from a transmission along the described second described receiving equipment that releases news successively on one of described communication path of transmitting and include described collection message, wherein the described response message that is adhered to by the described receiving equipment on this communication path is added to described collection message.

[0010]

The present invention according to claim 1, its structure for include query messages first release news be distributed to distribution apparatus on many communication paths after, issue includes second the releasing news of collection message of the response message that is used to collect this query messages, make it transmit successively via the communication path (route) in many communication paths, and will include the acquisition of information that has been added from the collection message of the response message of the receiving equipment on this communication path and transmit (returning) successively to this distribution apparatus via having transmitted this receiving equipment on this second this communication path that releases news successively, therefore response message can be collected more efficiently, and the traffic on the up direction of whole tree-type distribution system can be reduced.

[0011]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 2 what the present invention is directed to is the distribution apparatus of claim 1, wherein said receiving equipment choice device be arranged in each described receiving equipment under the probability that is directly proportional of the receiving equipment number of level, from a plurality of receiving equipments that are connected to described distribution apparatus, select in the described receiving equipment.

[0012]

According to the present invention of claim 2, be arranged in each described receiving equipment under the probability that is directly proportional of the receiving equipment number of level, select this second receiving equipment that releases news and will be distributed to, therefore can keep fair.

[0013]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 3 what the present invention is directed to is the distribution apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein said acquisition of information is that the described receiving equipment from the lowest hierarchical level that is arranged in a described communication path sends.

[0014]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 4 what the present invention is directed to is any one distribution apparatus of claim 1 to 3, it further has the message collection condition judgement device, is used for determining whether to satisfy the specify message collection condition according to described acquisition of information; Wherein when described message collection condition judgement device has determined also not satisfy described message collection condition, described receiving equipment choice device selects to be connected in the described receiving equipment of described distribution apparatus; And described second distributing device that releases news releases news described second and is published to a receiving equipment of described selection.

[0015]

According to the present invention of claim 4, second releases news is passed to the receiving equipment of this selection, until satisfied till the message collection condition, therefore can collect the response message of expectation reliably.

[0016]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 5 what the present invention is directed to is the distribution apparatus of claim 4, wherein said receiving equipment choice device be arranged in each described receiving equipment under the probability that is directly proportional of the described receiving equipment number of level, from a plurality of described receiving equipment that is connected to this distribution apparatus, select in the described receiving equipment.

[0017]

According to the present invention of claim 5, be arranged in each described receiving equipment under the probability that is directly proportional of the receiving equipment number of level, select this second receiving equipment that releases news and will be distributed to, therefore can keep fair.

[0018]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 6 what the present invention is directed to is the distribution apparatus of claim 4 or 5, a receiving equipment of selecteed receiving equipment before wherein said receiving equipment choice device is selected to be different from.

[0019]

According to the present invention of claim 6, the receiving equipment of selecteed receiving equipment before having selected to be different from, it is fair therefore can to keep.

[0020]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 7 what the present invention is directed to is the distribution apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein said second releases news comprises the information of expression specify message collection condition; And when satisfying this message collection condition, the described receiving equipment from described communication path sends described acquisition of information.

[0021]

According to the present invention of claim 7, when having satisfied this message collection condition, send this acquisition of information from this receiving equipment, therefore can collect response message more efficiently.

[0022]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 8 what the present invention is directed to is any one distribution apparatus of claim 4 to 7, wherein said message collection condition comprise the number that is used to specify the described response message that will be collected condition, be used to specify the effective answer that in described response message, comprises number condition and be used to specify described second at least one condition that releases news in the condition of the number of times that will be transmitted.

[0023]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 9 what the present invention is directed to is any one distribution apparatus of claim 1 to 8, wherein from the described response message of the described receiving equipment on the described communication path and the only id information of each described receiving equipment be associated and be attached to described collection message.

[0024]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 10 what the present invention is directed to is receiving equipment as the part of tree-type distribution system, wherein this tree-type distribution system is by being used to issue the described distribution apparatus that releases news and being used to receive that the described a plurality of described receiving equipment that releases news forms, wherein said equipment via many communication paths with tree-like connection, and described distribution apparatus has formed highest level, and described a plurality of receiving equipment has formed a plurality of levels, so that be delivered to described receiving equipment in the lower-level from the release news described receiving equipment from higher levels successively of described distribution apparatus issue described, this receiving equipment has: first receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive and include first of query messages and release news; The response message generating apparatus is used to generate the response message that is used for described query messages; Second receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive and include second of the collection message that is used to collect described response message and release news; The response message adding set is used for adding the response message of described generation to release news and comprise described second collection message; The lower-level judgment means is used for the described receiving equipment whether definite beneath level exists another connection; And the acquisition of information dispensing device, the acquisition of information that is used for including the described collection message that has been added described response message sends to described distribution apparatus.

[0025]

The present invention according to claim 10, in response at this first this query messages that comprises in releasing news, receive this first receiving equipment that releases news and generated response message, and the response message that generates is added to the collection message that in second of reception releases news, comprises, and when not connecting other receiving equipments in the level under this receiving equipment, this acquisition of information that includes this collection message is sent to this distribution apparatus, therefore this distribution apparatus can be more efficiently response message sent to, and the traffic on the up direction in whole tree-type distribution system can be reduced.

[0026]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 11 what the present invention is directed to is receiving equipment as the part of tree-type distribution system, wherein this tree-type distribution system is by being used to issue the described distribution apparatus that releases news and being used to receive that the described a plurality of described receiving equipment that releases news forms, wherein said equipment via many communication paths with tree-like connection, and described distribution apparatus has formed highest level, and described a plurality of receiving equipment has formed a plurality of levels, so that be delivered to described receiving equipment in the lower-level from the release news described receiving equipment from higher levels successively of described distribution apparatus issue described, this receiving equipment has: first receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive and include first of query messages and release news; The response message generating apparatus is used to generate the response message that is used for described query messages; Second receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive and include second the releasing news of information that is used to collect the collection message of described response message and is used to represent the specify message collection condition; The response message adding set is used for adding the response message of described generation to release news and comprise described second collection message; The message collection condition judgement device is used for determining whether to satisfy the described specify message collection condition that releases news and comprise described second; And the acquisition of information dispensing device, be used for when described message collection condition judgement device determines to satisfy described message collection condition, the acquisition of information that includes the described collection message that has been added described response message directly being sent to described distribution apparatus.

[0027]

The present invention according to claim 11, in response at this first this query messages that comprises in releasing news, receive this first receiving equipment that releases news and generated response message, and add the response message of this generation in second of reception releases news, comprise collection message, and when satisfying the specify message collection condition that in second releases news, comprises, this acquisition of information that includes this collection message is directly sent to this distribution apparatus, therefore this distribution apparatus can be more efficiently response message sent to, and the traffic on the up direction in the whole tree-type distribution system can be reduced.

[0028]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 12 what the present invention is directed to is the receiving equipment of claim 11, it further has: the lower-level judgment means, be used for when described message collection condition judgement device determines not satisfy described message collection condition, determine whether to exist in the level beneath the described receiving equipment of another connection; And the acquisition of information dispensing device, be used for when described lower-level judgment means is determined not connect another described receiving equipment, the acquisition of information that includes the described collection message that has been added described response message being sent to described distribution apparatus.

[0029]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 13 what the present invention is directed to is the receiving equipment of claim 10 or 12, it further has: the receiving equipment choice device, be used for when described lower-level judgment means determines that beneath there is the receiving equipment of another connection in level, select to be connected a described receiving equipment in the level under the described receiving equipment that the acquisition of information that includes the described collection message of having added described response message is sent to; And the acquisition of information transfer device, be used for described acquisition of information is delivered to the receiving equipment of described selection.

[0030]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 14 what the present invention is directed to is the receiving equipment of claim 13, wherein said receiving equipment choice device be arranged in each described receiving equipment under the probability that is directly proportional of the described receiving equipment number of level, select a described receiving equipment in a plurality of described receiving equipment the level under being connected described receiving equipment.

[0031]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 15 what the present invention is directed to is the receiving equipment of claim 13 or 14, described receiving equipment choice device is selected another described receiving equipment, the receiving equipment that this another described receiving equipment is selected before not being.

[0032]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 16 what the present invention is directed to is any one receiving equipment of claim 11 to 15, wherein said message collection condition comprise the number that is used to specify the described response message that will be collected condition, be used to specify the effective answer that in described response message, comprises number condition and be used to specify described second at least one condition that releases news in the condition of the number of times that will be transmitted.

[0033]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 17 what the present invention is directed to is any one receiving equipment of claim 10 to 16, the only id information of the response message that wherein said response message adding set makes described generation and this receiving equipment is associated, and adds them to comprise described collection message in described second releases news.

[0034]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 18 what the present invention is directed to is to be used to issue release news and as the information processing method of the distribution apparatus of the part of tree-type distribution system, wherein this tree-type distribution system is received by described distribution apparatus and being used to that the described a plurality of receiving equipments that release news form, wherein said equipment via many communication paths with tree-like connection, and described distribution apparatus has formed highest level, and described a plurality of receiving equipment has formed a plurality of levels, so that be delivered to described receiving equipment in the lower-level from the release news described receiving equipment from higher levels successively of described distribution apparatus issue described, this information processing method has following steps: issue first releases news, and releases news and is distributed to described receiving equipment on many communication paths so that include described first of query messages; Selection is connected to the described receiving equipment that described distribution apparatus and following second releases news and will be published to, described second releases news include be used to collect by each described receiving equipment that generate with the collection message corresponding response message of described query messages; Releasing news described second is published to a receiving equipment of described selection, releases news so that transmit described second successively via a communication path in described many communication paths; Receive following acquisition of information, described acquisition of information be from a transmission along the described second described receiving equipment that releases news successively on one of described communication path of transmitting and include described collection message, wherein the described response message that is adhered to by the described receiving equipment on this communication path is added to described collection message.

[0035]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 19 what the present invention is directed to is the information processing method that is used for as the receiving equipment of the part of tree-type distribution system, wherein this tree-type distribution system is by being used to issue the described distribution apparatus that releases news and being used to receive that the described a plurality of described receiving equipment that releases news forms, wherein said equipment via many communication paths with tree-like connection, and described distribution apparatus has formed highest level, and described a plurality of receiving equipment has formed a plurality of levels, so that be delivered to described receiving equipment in the lower-level from the release news described receiving equipment from higher levels successively of described distribution apparatus issue described, this information processing method has following steps: the described receiving equipment of level receives and includes first of query messages and release news from described distribution apparatus or on being arranged in; Generation is used for the response message of described query messages; The described receiving equipment of level receives and includes second of the collection message that is used to collect described response message and release news from described distribution apparatus or on being arranged in; Add the response message of described generation in described second releases news, comprise collection message; The described receiving equipment that whether has another connection in definite beneath level; And the acquisition of information that will include the described collection message that has been added described response message sends to described distribution apparatus.

[0036]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 20 what the present invention is directed to is the information processing method that is used for as the receiving equipment of the part of tree-type distribution system, wherein this tree-type distribution system is by being used to issue the described distribution apparatus that releases news and being used to receive that the described a plurality of described receiving equipment that releases news forms, wherein said equipment via many communication paths with tree-like connection, and described distribution apparatus has formed highest level, and described a plurality of receiving equipment has formed a plurality of levels, so that be delivered to described receiving equipment in the lower-level from the release news described receiving equipment from higher levels successively of described distribution apparatus issue described, this information processing method has following steps: the described receiving equipment of level receives and includes first of query messages and release news from described distribution apparatus or on being arranged in; Generation is used for the response message of described query messages; The described receiving equipment of level receives and includes second the releasing news of information that is used to collect the collection message of described response message and is used to represent the specify message collection condition from described distribution apparatus or on being arranged in; Add the response message of described generation in described second releases news, comprise collection message; Determine whether to satisfy the described specify message collection condition that in described second releases news, comprises; And when described message collection condition judgement device determines to satisfy described message collection condition, the acquisition of information that includes the described collection message that has been added described response message is directly sent to described distribution apparatus.

[0037]

Being to use in issue of the present invention is directed to as claimed in claim 21 that is used for addressing these problems releases news and as the message handling program of the following effect of computer of the distribution apparatus of the part of tree-type distribution system, wherein this tree-type distribution system is received by described distribution apparatus and being used to that the described a plurality of receiving equipments that release news form, wherein said equipment via many communication paths with tree-like connection, and described distribution apparatus has formed highest level, and described a plurality of receiving equipment has formed a plurality of levels, so that be delivered to described receiving equipment in the lower-level from the release news described receiving equipment from higher levels successively of described distribution apparatus issue described, described effect is: first distributing device that releases news, be used to issue first and release news, release news and be distributed to described receiving equipment on many communication paths so that include described first of query messages; The receiving equipment choice device, be used to select to be connected to the described receiving equipment that described distribution apparatus and following second releases news and will be published to, described second releases news include be used to collect by each described receiving equipment that generate with the collection message corresponding response message of described query messages; Second distributing device that releases news, being used for releasing news described second is published to a receiving equipment of described selection, releases news so that transmit described second successively via a communication path in described many communication paths; And acquisition of information receiving system, be used to receive following acquisition of information, described acquisition of information be from a transmission along the described second described receiving equipment that releases news successively on one of described communication path of transmitting and include described collection message, wherein the described response message that is adhered to by the described receiving equipment on this communication path is added to described collection message.

[0038]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 22 what the present invention is directed to is to make the message handling program that plays following effect as the computer of the receiving equipment of the part of tree-type distribution system, wherein this tree-type distribution system is by being used to issue the described distribution apparatus that releases news and being used to receive that the described a plurality of described receiving equipment that releases news forms, wherein said equipment via many communication paths with tree-like connection, and described distribution apparatus has formed highest level, and described a plurality of receiving equipment has formed a plurality of levels, so that be delivered to described receiving equipment in the lower-level from the release news described receiving equipment from higher levels successively of described distribution apparatus issue described, described effect is: first receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive and include first of query messages and release news; The response message generating apparatus is used to generate the response message that is used for described query messages; Second receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive and include second of the collection message that is used to collect described response message and release news; The response message adding set is used for adding the response message of described generation to release news and comprise described second collection message; The lower-level judgment means is used for the described receiving equipment whether definite beneath level exists another connection; And the acquisition of information dispensing device, the acquisition of information that is used for including the described collection message that has been added described response message sends to described distribution apparatus.

[0039]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 23 what the present invention is directed to is to make the message handling program that plays following effect as the computer of the receiving equipment of the part of tree-type distribution system, wherein this tree-type distribution system is by being used to issue the described distribution apparatus that releases news and being used to receive that the described a plurality of described receiving equipment that releases news forms, wherein said equipment via many communication paths with tree-like connection, and described distribution apparatus has formed highest level, and described a plurality of receiving equipment has formed a plurality of levels, so that be delivered to described receiving equipment in the lower-level from the release news described receiving equipment from higher levels successively of described distribution apparatus issue described, described effect is: first receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive and include first of query messages and release news; The response message generating apparatus is used to generate the response message that is used for described query messages; Second receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive and include second the releasing news of information that is used to collect the collection message of described response message and is used to represent the specify message collection condition; The response message adding set is used for adding the response message of described generation to release news and comprise described second collection message; The message collection condition judgement device is used for determining whether to satisfy the described specify message collection condition that releases news and comprise described second; And the acquisition of information dispensing device, be used for when described message collection condition judgement device determines to satisfy described message collection condition, the acquisition of information that includes the described collection message that has been added described response message directly being sent to described distribution apparatus.

[0040]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 24 what the present invention is directed to is recording medium, write down any one described message handling program on it, so that can read by computer as claim 21 to 23.

[0041]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 25 what the present invention is directed to is tree-type distribution system, it comprises and is used to issue the distribution apparatus that releases news and is used to receive the described a plurality of receiving equipments that release news, wherein said equipment via many communication paths with tree-like connection, and described distribution apparatus has formed highest level, and described a plurality of receiving equipment has formed a plurality of levels, so that be delivered to described receiving equipment in the lower-level from the release news described receiving equipment from higher levels successively of described distribution apparatus issue described, wherein said distribution apparatus has: first distributing device that releases news, be used to issue first and release news, release news and be distributed to described receiving equipment on many communication paths so that include described first of query messages; The receiving equipment choice device, be used to select to be connected to the described receiving equipment that described distribution apparatus and following second releases news and will be published to, described second releases news includes the collection message that is used to collect with the corresponding response message of described query messages; And second distributing device that releases news, being used for releasing news described second is published to a receiving equipment of described selection; And described receiving equipment has: first receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive first and release news; The response message generating apparatus is used to generate the response message that is used for described query messages; Second receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive second and release news; The response message adding set is used for adding the response message of described generation to release news and comprise described second collection message; The lower-level judgment means is used for the described receiving equipment whether definite beneath level exists another connection; And acquisition of information transmission/transfer device, be used for when described lower-level judgment means has determined not connect described other receiving equipments, the acquisition of information that includes the described collection message that has been added described response message is sent to described distribution apparatus, and the described acquisition of information that will include the described collection message that has been added described response message be delivered to be connected under in the described receiving equipment in the level one.

[0042]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 26 what the present invention is directed to is tree-type distribution system, it has and is used to issue the distribution apparatus that releases news and is used to receive the described a plurality of receiving equipments that release news, wherein said equipment via many communication paths with tree-like connection, and described distribution apparatus has formed highest level, and described a plurality of receiving equipment has formed a plurality of levels, so that be delivered to described receiving equipment in the lower-level from the release news described receiving equipment from higher levels successively of described distribution apparatus issue described, wherein said distribution apparatus has: first distributing device that releases news, be used to issue first and release news, release news and be distributed to described receiving equipment on many communication paths so that include described first of query messages; The receiving equipment choice device, be used to select to be connected to the described receiving equipment that described distribution apparatus and following second releases news and will be published to, described second releases news includes and is used to collect with the collection message of the corresponding response message of described query messages and is used to represent the information of specify message collection condition; And second distributing device that releases news, being used for releasing news described second is published to a receiving equipment of described selection; And described receiving equipment has: first receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive first and release news; The response message generating apparatus is used to generate the response message that is used for described query messages; Second receiving system that releases news, be used for from described distribution apparatus or on being positioned at the described receiving equipment of level receive described second and release news; The response message adding set is used for adding the response message of described generation to release news and comprise described second collection message; The message collection condition judgement device is used for determining whether to satisfy the described specify message collection condition that releases news and comprise described second; And acquisition of information transmission/transfer device, be used for when described message collection condition judgement device determines to satisfy described message collection condition, the acquisition of information that includes the described collection message that has been added described response message is sent to described distribution apparatus, and when described message collection condition judgement device determines not satisfy described message collection condition, with the described acquisition of information that includes the described collection message that has been added described response message be delivered to be connected under in the described receiving equipment in the level one.

[0043]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 27 what the present invention is directed to is the treatment facility of tree network system, this tree network system comprises: query facility is used to send the Query Information that is used to ask to send a reply object information; And a plurality of treatment facilities, be used to receive described Query Information, wherein said query facility connects into tree-like via communication path and described a plurality of treatment facility, so that described query facility is the highest, and described a plurality of treatment facility has formed a plurality of levels, and the described Query Information that sends from the described query facility described treatment facility from high-order level continuously is delivered to described treatment facility in the low level level, one of wherein said treatment facility has: the Query Information receiving system is used for receiving from another described treatment facility of the high-order level that is connected a described treatment facility or the described Query Information that sends from described query facility; The Query Information transfer device is used for one or more in described other treatment facilities that Query Information with described reception is delivered to the low level level that is connected a described treatment facility; Reply the object information receiving system, be used for receiving and include the return information that is used for described Query Information and from least one of described other treatment facilities of being connected described low level level or the described answer object information of a plurality of transmissions; The return information creation apparatus is used to make a described treatment facility to create its oneself the described answer object information that is used for described Query Information; Reply the object information creation apparatus, be used to make a described treatment facility to create its oneself answer object information according to the answer object information that receives by described answer object information receiving system with by the return information that described return information creation apparatus is created; And reply the object information return mechanism, be used for answer object information with described establishment and send to as by the transmission source of the Query Information of described Query Information receiving system reception and be connected other the described treatment facilities or the described query facility of described high-order level.

[0044]

Therefore, structure makes that the new object information of replying is to create according to the answer object information that treatment facility sent from be connected positive lower floor, and send to high-order level then, therefore load centralization can be reduced in the upstream communication path of network (for example certain ip router etc.), thereby the operational efficiency of system can be improved.

[0045]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 28 what the present invention is directed to is the treatment facility of claim 27, it further has: choice device, select to specify the described return information of number item the return information that is used for creating from the return information that comprises at the described answer object information that is received by described answer object information receiving system and by described return information creation apparatus, wherein said answer object information creation apparatus is created the described answer object information of the described return information of the appointment number item that includes described selection.

[0046]

Therefore, send Query Information from query facility, and when this query facility is selected to specify the return information of number item from return information that is comprising the answer object information and the every return information created for Query Information that sends from downstream equipment, structure makes the return information of selecting to specify the number item in from the answer object information that is connected the treatment facility the positive lower floor among return information that each upstream device is created from the return information that comprises with by the creation apparatus of this treatment facility itself every, and they are included in send to treatment facility or be connected in the answer object information of the query facility in the positive upper strata, therefore query facility only needs the return information of respectively replying selection appointment number item in each return information that comprises in the object information in each treatment facility transmission from be connected positive lower floor, thereby can carry out the selection of return information more efficiently.

[0047]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 29 what the present invention is directed to is the treatment facility of claim 28, it further has: that total number information acquisition device, the total number that is used for obtaining described other treatment facilities that are connected described low level level add " 1 " and be used as total number information; And total number information transmitting apparatus, be used for described total number information is sent to as by the transmission source of the Query Information of described Query Information receiving system reception and be connected other the described treatment facilities or the described query facility of described high-order level; Described total number information that wherein said choice device sends according to described other treatment facilities from be connected described low level level is selected the return information of described appointment number item.

[0048]

Therefore, when treatment facility from from the return information of selecting to specify the number item among return information that is connected each treatment facility the positive lower floor and the return information created by this treatment facility itself every, and when these return information is sent to the treatment facility that is connected in the positive upper strata, structure makes to be used for representing what return informations to have selected total number information of described return information to be sent out from, therefore when selecting to specify the return information of number item in every return information that each treatment facility from be connected positive lower floor sends, can when selecting the return information of appointment number item, consider the weight of each, thereby can be selected structure equably by every return information of all treatment facility establishments.

[0049]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 30 what the present invention is directed to is the treatment facility of claim 29, wherein when described answer object information return mechanism sent described answer object information, described total number information transmitting apparatus sent described total number information.

[0050]

Therefore, when sending to the treatment facility that is connected in the positive upper strata when the return information of treatment facility selection appointment number item and with these, structure makes these with being used for representing what return informations to have selected total number information of described options to be sent out from.Therefore when selecting to specify the return information of number item, can select to specify the return information of number item fast by the weight of considering each.

[0051]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 31 what the present invention is directed to is any one treatment facility of claim 27 to 30, it further has: the ending message receiving system is used for receiving from other described processing unit of being connected described high-order level or described inquiry unit and provides the ending message that is used to finish receive at the input of the answer information of described Query Information instruction; And answer the information input receiver, be used for from when described Query Information receiving system receives described Query Information till described ending message receiving system receives described ending message, receive the input of described answer information; Wherein said return information creation apparatus is created described return information according to the input of the described answer information that is received by described answer information input receiver.

[0052]

Therefore, structure makes to call request and receives end data and be separated to receive with Query Information from query facility, so all upstream devices can be under the situation of the influence of not receiving communication delay etc., input answer information in the identical time period.

[0053]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 32 what the present invention is directed to is any one treatment facility of claim 27 to 31, it further has: the stand-by period setting device is used for being provided for receiving from described other treatment facilities that are connected described low level level reception stand-by period of described answer object information; Wherein said answer object information creation apparatus is created the answer object information that is used for a described treatment facility itself according to the described answer object information that is received by described answer object information receiving system in the described reception stand-by period.

[0054]

Therefore, reception can be separated by the random time amount, send a reply object information and needn't wait as long for all treatment facilities that are connected in the positive lower floor, and even when certain fault taking place in the treatment facility in being connected the low level level or in communication network, also can prevent from whole system is produced negative effect.

[0055]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 33 what the present invention is directed to is any one treatment facility of claim 28 to 32, it further has: judgment means is used for determining whether the return information of being created by described return information creation apparatus is corresponding with the Query Information that is received by described Query Information receiving system; Wherein when determining that this return information and described Query Information be not at once, described choice device is removed the return information by described return information creation apparatus establishment as alternative, and only selects the return information of described appointment number item from the return information that comprises the answer object information that is received by described answer object information receiving system.

[0056]

Therefore, under the situation that the Query Information that sends from query facility is used to test, structure makes Query Information be sent out with correct answer, when this return information of creating with box lunch is not complementary with the correct answer of test, this return information is got rid of as alternative.Like this, can carry out the test that beholder/listener participates in type.

[0057]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 34 what the present invention is directed to is the tree network system, this tree network system has: query facility is used to send the Query Information that is used to ask to send a reply object information; And a plurality of treatment facilities, be used to receive described Query Information, wherein said query facility connects into tree-like via many communication paths and described a plurality of treatment facility, so that described query facility is the highest, and described a plurality of treatment facility forms a plurality of levels, and the described Query Information that sends from the described query facility described treatment facility from high-order level continuously is delivered to described treatment facility in the low level level, one of wherein said treatment facility has: the Query Information receiving system is used for receiving from another described treatment facility of the high-order level that is connected a described treatment facility or the described Query Information that sends from described query facility; The Query Information transfer device is used for the Query Information of described reception is delivered to described other treatment facilities of the low level level that is connected a described treatment facility; Reply the object information receiving system, be used for receiving and include return information that is used for described Query Information and the described answer object information that sends from described other treatment facilities that are connected described low level level; The return information creation apparatus is used to make a described treatment facility to create its oneself the described answer object information that is used for described Query Information; Reply the object information creation apparatus, be used to make a described treatment facility to create its oneself answer object information according to the answer object information that receives by described answer object information receiving system with by the return information that described return information creation apparatus is created; And reply the object information return mechanism, be used for answer object information with described establishment and send to as by the transmission source of the Query Information of described Query Information receiving system reception and be connected other the described treatment facilities or the described query facility of described high-order level; Wherein said query facility has: the Query Information dispensing device, be used for described Query Information send in the described treatment facility of the low level level that is connected under the described query facility at least one or a plurality of; And reply the object information device, be used for receiving at least one or the described answer object information of a plurality of transmissions from the described treatment facility that is connected the low level level.

[0058]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 35 what the present invention is directed to is the tree network system of claim 34, wherein said treatment facility further has: choice device is used for from return information that comprises at the described answer object information that is received by described answer object information receiving system and the described return information of being specified the number item by selection the return information of described return information creation apparatus establishment; And wherein said answer object information creation apparatus is created the described answer object information of the described return information of the appointment number item that includes described selection.

[0059]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 36 what the present invention is directed to is the tree network system of claim 35, wherein said treatment facility further has: that total number information acquisition device, the total number that is used for obtaining described other treatment facilities that are connected described low level level add " 1 " and be used as total number information; And total number information transmitting apparatus, be used for described total number information is sent to as by the transmission source of the Query Information of described Query Information receiving system reception and be connected other the described treatment facilities or the described query facility of described high-order level; And described total number information that wherein said choice device sends according to described other treatment facilities from be connected described low level level is selected the return information of described appointment number item.

[0060]

Be used for addressing these problems as claimed in claim 37 what the present invention is directed to is the handling procedure that is used for the computer that the treatment facility of tree network system comprises, this tree network system has: query facility is used to send the Query Information that is used to ask to send a reply object information; And a plurality of treatment facilities, be used to receive described Query Information, wherein said query facility is connected to tree-like via many communication paths and described a plurality of treatment facility, so that described query facility is the highest, and described a plurality of treatment facility forms a plurality of levels, and the described Query Information that sends from the described query facility described treatment facility from high-order level continuously is delivered to described treatment facility in the low level level, wherein said program makes the described computer of described treatment facility play following effect: the Query Information receiving system is used for receiving from another described treatment facility of the high-order level that is connected a described treatment facility or the described Query Information that sends from described query facility; The Query Information transfer device is used for one or more in described other treatment facilities that Query Information with described reception is delivered to the low level level that is connected a described treatment facility; Reply the object information receiving system, be used for receiving and include the return information that is used for described Query Information and from least one of described other treatment facilities of being connected described low level level or the described answer object information of a plurality of transmissions; The return information creation apparatus is used to make a described treatment facility to create its oneself the described answer object information that is used for described Query Information; Reply the object information creation apparatus, be used to make a described treatment facility to create its oneself answer object information according to the answer object information that receives by described answer object information receiving system with by the return information that described return information creation apparatus is created; And reply the object information return mechanism, be used for answer object information with described establishment and send to as by the transmission source of the Query Information of described Query Information receiving system reception and be connected other the described treatment facilities or the described query facility of described high-order level.

[0061]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 38 what the present invention is directed to is the handling procedure of claim 37, it further makes described computer play the effect of choice device, and this choice device is used for selecting to specify the described return information of number item from return information that comprises at the described answer object information that is received by described answer object information receiving system and the return information by described answer object information creation apparatus establishment; And make described answer object information creation apparatus create the described answer object information of the described return information of the appointment number item that includes described selection.

[0062]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 39 what the present invention is directed to is the handling procedure of claim 38, it further makes described computer function as follows: that total number information acquisition device, the total number that is used for obtaining described other treatment facilities that are connected described low level level add " 1 " and be used as total number information; And total number information transmitting apparatus, be used for described total number information is sent to as by the transmission source of the Query Information of described Query Information receiving system reception and be connected other the described treatment facilities or the described query facility of described high-order level; And described total number information that described choice device is sent according to described other treatment facilities from be connected described low level level is selected the return information of described appointment number item.

[0063]

Be used to address these problems as claimed in claim 40 what the present invention is directed to is a kind of recording medium, record on it as in the claim 37 to 39 any one as described in handling procedure so that it can be read by described computer.

Effect of the present invention

[0064]

By the present invention, issue includes to be used to collect at second of the collection message of the response message of apply for information and releases news, so that via a communication path in many communication paths successively with its transmission, and send to distribution apparatus from second receiving equipment that releases news on the communication path that is passed to successively with including the acquisition of information that has added the collection message of response message by the receiving equipment on this communication path, therefore response message can be collected more efficiently, and the traffic on the up direction in the whole tree-type distribution system can be reduced.

[0065]

By this invention, structure makes after treatment facility is created and gathered the answer object information of the inquiry message that sends at the equipment from top, every answer object information according to each treatment facility transmission from be connected the low level level, this information is sent to the treatment facility that is connected in the high-order level, therefore concentrating of load in the upstream communication path of network and the upstream process equipment can be reduced, the operational efficiency of system can be improved thus.

Description of drawings

[0066]

Fig. 1 shows the example of the connection status of each equipment in the tree-type distribution system of embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 2 shows the example of structure of broadcasting station equipment.

Fig. 3 shows the example of structure of node device.

Fig. 4 A is a flow chart, shows the processing of being carried out by the control unit 11 of broadcasting station equipment 1 that is used to issue the apply for information data.

Fig. 4 B is a flow chart, shows the processing of being carried out by the control unit 21 of node device 2 that is used to receive the apply for information data.

Fig. 5 is a flow chart, shows the processing of being carried out by the control unit 11 of broadcasting station equipment 1 that is used to issue collection message data.

Fig. 6 is a flow chart, shows the processing of being carried out by the control unit 11 of broadcasting station equipment 1 that is used to receive collection message data.

Fig. 7 is a flow chart, shows the processing of being carried out by the control unit 21 of node device 2 that is used to receive and transmit collection message data.

Fig. 8 shows the example that sends the state of collecting message data when satisfying the message collection condition in communication path K3.

Fig. 9 shows the example that sends the state of collecting message data when not satisfying the message collection condition in communication path K3.

Figure 10 shows issue again and collects the example of message data with the state that satisfies the message collection condition.

Figure 11 is a block diagram, shows the structure of the S of tree network system among second embodiment.

Figure 12 has explained the structure of broadcasting equipment 201.

Figure 13 has explained the structure of node device 202.

Figure 14 shows and sends and receive request reception data between broadcasting equipment 201 and the node device 202 and reply object information Ans.

Figure 15 is a flow chart, shows the request of being carried out by the control unit 211 of broadcasting equipment 201 and receives data sending processing.

Figure 16 is a flow chart, shows the answer object information of being carried out by the control unit 221 of node device 202 and sends processing.

Figure 17 has explained total number information of storage in the memory cell 222 of node device 202 and has selected nodal information.

Figure 18 is a flow chart, shows the answer object information of being carried out by the control unit 221 of node 202 and generates processing.

Figure 19 shows and is used for sending to the transmission processing that tree network is the broadcasting equipment 201 of S with replying object information Ans.

Label and letter explanation

[0067]

1 broadcasting station equipment

2 node devices

3 system management server equipment

10 networks

11 control units

12 memory cell

13 coding units

14 communication units

15 buses

16 decoding units

21 control units

22 memory cell

23 buffer storage

24 decoding units

25 video processing units

26 display units

27 audio treatment units

28 loud speakers

29 communication units

The 29a input unit

30 buses

31 coding units

32 video processing units

33 cameras

34 audio treatment units

35 microphones

The K communication path

The S tree-type distribution system

201 broadcasting equipments

202 (202a, 202b, 202c, 202d, 202e, 202f, 202g, 202h, 202i, 202j, 202k, 202l, 202m, 202n, 202o, 202p) node device

203 (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d, 203e, 203f, 203g, 203h, 203i, 203j, 203k, 203l, 203m, 203n, 203o, 203p) communication path

211 control units

212 memory cell

213 operation input units

214 coding units

215 communication units

216 buses

221 control units

222 memory cell

223 buffer storage

224 decoding units

225 video processing units

226 audio treatment units

227 operation input units

228 communication units

229 buses

The M display unit

The U loud speaker

The Rb request receives the beginning data

The Re request receives end data

X selects nodal information

The total number information of N

Ans replys object information

The Tr request may the period

The To time-out time

Total number of M equipment

Su is connected the number of the node device 202 in the positive lower floor

Embodiment

[0068] first embodiment

Tell about the preferred embodiments of the present invention below with reference to the accompanying drawings.Following examples are for being applied to the present invention the embodiment in the tree-type distribution system.

[0069]

[the 1. structure of tree-type distribution system]

At first tell about the structure of tree-type distribution system with reference to Fig. 1.

[0070]

Fig. 1 shows the example of the connection status of the equipment in the tree-type distribution system of the present invention.In example shown in Figure 1, the state that is electrically connected that last square frame 100 shows the equipment among the tree-type distribution system S (for example, set up the annexation between the equipment of communication), and square frame 101 shows physical connection state between the equipment of each equipment of including tree-type distribution system S down.

[0071]

As shown in Figure 1, this tree-type distribution system S is equity (P2P) type network system, it comprises: broadcasting equipment 1, as being used to issue as the content-data (being also referred to as flow data) that releases news and as the example of the distribution apparatus of the various message datas that release news that include all kinds message that release news; And a plurality of node devices (peer device) 2a, 2b, 2c...2l, as the example of a plurality of receiving equipments that are used to receive foregoing data and message data.

[0072]

The node device 2a to 2l of such tree-type distribution system is called as the adding node device of tree-type distribution system S.In addition, in Fig. 1, can from tree-type distribution system S, get rid of the node device 2a to 2l that adds among the tree-type distribution system S.

[0073]

Shown in the following square frame 101 of Fig. 1, to such as the networks such as internet that are made of IX (internet exchange) 5, ISP (Internet service provider) 6, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) line feed merchant (equipment) 7, FTTH (optical fiber is registered one's residence) line feed merchant (equipment) and communication line (for example telephone wire, optical cable etc.) 9, and broadcasting station equipment 1 and each node device 2 are assigned with only device id and IP (Internet Protocol) address by physical connection for broadcasting station equipment 1 and a plurality of node device 2.In the following square frame 101 of Fig. 1, represent the bandwidth (for example transfer of data ratio) of communication line with the thickness of communication line 9 corresponding solid lines.

[0074]

Suppose that these equipment carry out physical connection in the mode shown in the following square frame 101, then shown in the last square frame 100 of Fig. 1, tree-type distribution system S forms a plurality of levels, wherein broadcasting station equipment 1 forms highest level, and a plurality of node device 2a to 2l form a plurality of levels, and, have tree-shaped overlay network and create via many communication path K1, K2, K3... according to each IP address.In addition, be delivered to node device by the content-data of broadcasting station equipment 1 issue and message data successively from node device such as lower-level such as 2g such as higher levels such as 2a.Like this, the node device 2 that adds tree-type distribution system S can receive issue or content transmitted data, and but, when getting rid of node device 2 from tree-type distribution system S, they no longer can the received content data.

[0075]

Here, formed a communication path by communication line from broadcasting station equipment 1 to the node device that is arranged in lowest hierarchical level etc.For example, the communication path K1 shown in the frame 100 is formed by communication line 4a, node device 2a, communication line 4c, node device 2c, communication line 4g and node device 2g up.In addition, the communication path K2 shown in the frame 100 is formed by communication line 4a, node device 2a, communication line 4c, node device 2c, communication line 4h and node device 2h up.In addition, for example, communication line 4a is formed by many communication lines 9 in the various bandwidth shown in the following square frame 101 of Fig. 1.

[0076]

In following telling about, when node device among expression node device 2a, the 2b..., this node device can be abbreviated as node device 2 for convenience.In addition, when communication path among expression communication path K1, K2, the K3..., this communication path can be abbreviated as communication path K for convenience.

[0077]

And, in the present embodiment, come setting, control and the management of the connection status (connecting topology) between each equipment among the tree-type distribution system S shown in the last square frame 100 of execution graph 1 by system management server equipment 3.For example, system management server equipment 3 is according to the connection status between each equipment that the tree-type distribution system S shown in the last square frame 100 of Fig. 1 is set from joining request of each node device 2, afterwards according to this connection status, establishment is used for the connection status table of each node device 2, and this table is sent to each node device 2 of request adding.And tree-type distribution system S creates by each node device that according to the connection status table connection request is sent to broadcasting station equipment 1 or higher levels node device 2 and connect.The connection status table that is sent to each node device 2 comprises the broadcasting station device id (the perhaps IP address of broadcasting station equipment 1) of the only id information of the broadcasting station equipment 1 that will be connected to as node device 2 or at least as the node device ID (the perhaps IP address of node device) of the only id information of higher levels node device 2.In addition, system management server equipment 3 sends to broadcasting station equipment 1 with the connection status table, and this connection status table includes the node device ID (the perhaps IP address of node device 2) of the node device 2 that content-data or various types of message data is published to by broadcasting station equipment 1.

[0078]

In addition, node device 2 that no longer can the received content data owing to get rid of the node device 2 that is arranged in higher levels from tree-type distribution system S etc. can send to system management server equipment 3 with joining request, to obtain new connection status table, and by carrying out the request that is connected to broadcasting station equipment 1 or higher levels node device 2 according to this connection status table, tree-type distribution system S obtains rebuilding.

[0079]

Broadcasting station equipment 1 can also replace system management server equipment 3 and be provided with, controls and manage connection status between each equipment.

[0080]

[the 2. structure of broadcasting station equipment]

Next tell about the 26S Proteasome Structure and Function of broadcasting station equipment 1 with reference to Fig. 2.

[0081]

Fig. 2 shows the structure of broadcasting station equipment 1.

[0082]

As shown in Figure 2, broadcasting station equipment 1 comprises: control unit 11, by the CPU with computing function (CPU), be used for the RAM (random access storage device) of working region and be used for store various kinds of data and the ROM of program (read-only memory) constitutes; Memory cell 12 is made of the HDD that is used for store various kinds of data and program and content-data and message data (hard disk drive); Coding unit 13 is used for the video data (video information) that comprises at content-data and voice data (audio-frequency information) encode (data compression or encryption); Decoding unit 16 is used for video data (video information) and voice data (audio-frequency information) decode (expansion or decoding); And communication unit 14, be used to control via the communicating by letter of network 10 and node device 2, wherein all these assemblies link together via bus 15.

[0083]

In addition, CPU by control unit 11 carries out the program that is stored in the memory cell 12, control unit 11 reads the content-data that is stored in the memory 12, and encode by 13 pairs of video datas that in content-data, comprise of coding unit and voice data, and the result is published to node device 2 (node device 2a and 2b in the example shown in the last square frame 100 of Fig. 1) via communication unit 14.

[0084]

In addition, carry out the message handling program be stored in the memory cell 12 by the CPU in the control unit 11, control unit 11 plays first the release news effect of distributing device, acquisition of information receiving system and message collection condition judgement device of distributing device, receiving equipment choice device, second that releases news.For example, message handling program can be downloaded from the particular server on the network 10, perhaps can be recorded in such as reading on the recording mediums such as CD-ROM and by recording medium drive.

[0085]

Come to tell about in detail first release news distributing device, receiving equipment choice device, second release news distributing device, acquisition of information receiving system and the message collection condition judgement device of carrying out by control unit 11 below.

[0086]

Control unit 11 plays first effect that releases news distributing device with communication unit 14, and in the present embodiment, be published to all node devices 2 according to the query message data that their IP address separately will include as first query messages that releases news along many communication paths.For example, be formed tree-shaped overlay network by use, query message data at first is distributed to node device 2a and the 2b shown in the square frame 100 on Fig. 1 from broadcasting station equipment 1, afterwards, successively it is delivered to lower-level equipment 2 from node device 2a and 2b.In addition, except query messages, this query message data also comprises as the broadcasting station device id of the message id of the only id information of this query messages and broadcasting station equipment 1 (the perhaps IP address of broadcasting station equipment 1).

[0087]

Here, query messages for can comprise survey, exam questions, from the message that waits individual inquiry etc. such as DJ (the music program host in radio station), the broadcasting station uses this message to come some users of requirement node device 2 to reply.

[0088]

When node device 2 received this query message data, in response to this query messages, node device 2 generated and preserves response message.This response message comprises the response to query messages, for example, (for example, select one inquiry from 5 options) when query messages comprises questionnaire or exam questions, response message comprises investigating a matter or the answer of exam questions (for example the 3rd option in 5 options).In addition, when query messages comprises inquiry from DJ etc. (for example, about the inquiry of wanting to converse with DJ), response message comprises the request relevant with this inquiry (for example, call request).

[0089]

Can also construct control unit 11, so that it is published to all node devices according to the IP address of node device 2 with query message data.

[0090]

In addition, as the receiving equipment choice device, control unit 11 select to be connected to broadcasting station equipment 1, collect a node device in the node device 2 that message data will be distributed to, wherein collect message data as second releasing news of including the collection message that is used to collect the above-mentioned response message that generates by at least one node device 2.This selection is not particularly limited, and can carry out at random by producing random number, perhaps can carry out by considering the weight of giving communication path K.

[0091]

For example, when the weight of considering to give communication path K is carried out when selecting, according to be arranged in each node device 2 under the probability that is directly proportional of the number of all node devices 2 of lower-level, control unit 11 is selected a node device 2 from a plurality of node devices 2 that are connected to broadcasting station equipment 1.For example, the number that is arranged in the node device 2 of the lower-level under the node device 2a shown in the last square frame 100 of Fig. 1 is 6, perhaps in other words is node device 2c, 2d, 2g, 2h, 2i and 2j.But, the number that is arranged in the node device 2 of the lower-level under the node device 2b shown in the last square frame 100 of Fig. 1 is 4, perhaps in other words is node device 2e, 2f, 2k and 2l.In addition, select a node device 2 to mean for example to suppose from two node device 2a being connected to broadcasting station equipment 1 and 2b, to select a node device 10 times with the probability that is directly proportional with the number of node device, the selecteed probability of node device 2a is 6/10, and the selecteed probability of node device 2b is 4/10.Therefore, even it is different with node device 2b side for node device 2a side to be arranged in the number of node device 2 of lower-level, select to be arranged in the fairness of the node device 2 of these lower-level after also can keeping.The number that is arranged in all node devices 2 of the lower-level under each node device 2 is to obtain by the system management server equipment 3 with reference to the connection topology that is used to manage whole system S.

[0092]

Except collecting message, above-mentioned collection message data also comprises as the message id of the query messages of intelligence-collecting object and broadcasting station device id (the perhaps IP address of broadcasting station equipment 1).

[0093]

In addition, control unit 11 plays second effect that releases news distributing device with communication unit 14, and issue above-mentioned collection message data, so that it is delivered to the node device 2 (for example node device 2a shown in the frame 100 of Fig. 1) of selection successively via a communication path K among many communication path K (for example communication path K1 shown in the frame 100 of Fig. 1).

[0094]

Transmit this collection message data successively, comprise following collection message so that collect message data, wherein response message is attached to this collection message by being positioned at a node device 2 (being node device 2a, 2c and 2g under the situation of the communication path K1 shown in the frame 100 of Fig. 1) on the communication path.

[0095]

To collect message data and send to broadcasting station equipment 1 as including the acquisition of information of collecting message from being positioned at a node device 2 on the communication path K, wherein response message is attached to this collection message by all node devices 2 of this communication path K.Tell about below from node device 2 and collect message data.

[0096]

Control unit 11 plays the effect of acquisition of information receiving system with communication unit 14, and receives the above-mentioned collection message data that sends from node device 2.In this process, broadcasting station equipment 1 is collected response messages for example to the response of questionnaire from being positioned at all node devices 2 on the communication path K.

[0097]

At this moment, as the message collection judgment means, control unit 11 can also determine whether to satisfy specify message collection connection according to collecting message data.The message collection condition can be used to specify collection response message number condition, be used to specify the number of the effective answer that in response message, comprises condition, be used to specify the conditions such as condition of collecting the number of times that message data will be transmitted.

[0098]

In addition, when control unit 11 is determined also not satisfy the message collection condition, for example when the number of the response message of collecting less than by the number of the response of the collection of the condition appointment of the number of the response message that is used to specify collection the time, select to be connected to broadcasting station equipment 1 once more and the node device 2 of message data is collected in the supposition issue.In other words, owing to do not satisfy the message collection condition, therefore collect message data and be published to node device 2 (be essentially once more and transmit) once more.In addition in this case, identical with above-mentioned mode, can carry out selection at random by generating random number, perhaps can carry out selection by the weight of considering communication path.

[0099]

In addition, control unit 11 can be selected another node device 2, rather than the former node device of selecting 2 (this means in issue with during issuing a series of processing of collection message data till satisfying the message collection condition again and select node device).For example, when from node device 2a shown in the last square frame 100 of Fig. 1 and 2b, selecting node device 2a before, select node device 2b this moment.By doing like this, can keep selecting more liberally.

[0100]

By control unit 11 for example content-data and various message data are formed bag, and add the IP address of issue destination to each bag separately, and from communication unit 14 with its transmission.

[0101]

When broadcasting station equipment 1 receives when including with the corresponding request responding message of query messages, the user of broadcasting station equipment 1 (for example DJ) can use following program, this program uses random number to specify the IP address of the node device of selecting 2 automatically from the node device 2 that has sent request, and is directly connected to this node device 2.In this case, control unit 11 can be decoded by 16 pairs of video data (video information) and voice datas (audio-frequency information) (for example user of the node device 2 of Xuan Zeing and the conversation between the DJ) through coding that send from the node device of selecting 2 of decoding unit, and sends it to node device (node device 2a and 2b in the example shown in the last square frame 100 of Fig. 1) via communication path 14.

[0102]

[the 3. structure of node device]

Next tell about the 26S Proteasome Structure and Function of node device 2 with reference to Fig. 3.

[0103]

Fig. 3 shows the example of structure of node device 2.

[0104]

As shown in Figure 3, each node device 2 all comprises: control unit 21, as by CPU with computing function, be used for the RAM of service area and be used for store various kinds of data and computer that the ROM of program etc. constitutes; Buffer storage 23 is used for the content-data that temporary transient storage receives; Decoding unit 24 is used for video data and the voice data through the coding that comprise at content-data are decoded; Video processing unit 25 is used for handling and outputting video signal carrying out specify image through the video data of decoding; Display 26 such as CRT or LCD etc., is used for according to coming display video from the vision signal of video processing unit 25 outputs; Audio treatment unit 27 is used for and will becomes simulated audio signal (D/A conversion) and afterwards with its amplification and export the result from digital translation through the voice data of decoding; Loud speaker 28 is used for and will exports as sound wave from the audio signal of audio treatment unit 27 outputs; Camera 33 when the user (for example DJ of radio program) of broadcasting station equipment 1 allows to send video data (video information) and voice data (audio-frequency information), is used by the user of node device 2; Video processing unit 32 during the recording of video that is used for preparing when the video that need be taken by camera 33 or by the user of node device 2, is carried out A/D conversion (analog-to-digital conversion); Microphone 35 is by user's use of node device 2; Audio treatment unit 34 is used for using the audio frequency (sound) of microphone 35 records or during the record audio (sound) prepared by the user of node device 2, carrying out A/D conversion (analog-to-digital conversion) when needs; Coding unit 31 is used for video data (video information) and voice data (audio-frequency information) that the user by node device 2 sends are encoded; Communication unit 29 is used to control communicating by letter via network 10 and broadcasting station equipment 1 or other node devices 2; And input unit 29a, be used for receiving instruction and will instructing corresponding command signal to issue control unit 21 with this from the user; Wherein control unit 21, memory cell 22, buffer storage 23, decoding unit 24, coding unit 31 and communication unit 29 interconnect via bus 30.

[0105]

In addition, CPU by control unit 21 carries out program stored in memory cell 22, control unit 21 receives from the content-data of broadcasting station equipment 1 issue, perhaps via communication unit 29 on being connected the node device the level 2 (for example on Fig. 1 in the example shown in the square frame 100, the node device that is connected in the level on the node device 2c is node device 2a) the next content-data of transmission, and this content-data is stored in the buffer storage 23, from buffering memory 23, read this content-data then, and decode by 24 pairs of video datas that in these data, comprise of decoding unit and voice data, and video data is outputed to video processing unit 25, voice data is outputed to audio treatment unit 27.

[0106]

And, control unit 21 (the node device 2g to 2l in lowest hierarchical level) by communication unit 29 with the content-data that receives be delivered to be connected under in the level node device 2 (for example, in the example shown in the square frame 100, the node device that is connected in the level under the node device 2b is node device 2e and 2f on Fig. 1).By doing like this, content-data is delivered to the node device 2g to 2l of lowest hierarchical level successively always.

[0107]

In addition, CPU by control unit 21 carries out canned data handling procedure in memory cell 22, and control unit 21 plays first the release news effect of receiving system, response message adding set and lower-level judgment means, receiving equipment choice device, acquisition of information transfer device, acquisition of information dispensing device and message collection condition judgement device of receiving system, response message generating apparatus, second that releases news.Message handling program can be downloaded from the particular server on the network 10, perhaps can be recorded in such as reading on the recording mediums such as CD-ROM and by recording medium drive.

[0108]

Come to tell about in more detail first release news receiving system, response message generating apparatus, second release news receiving system, response message adding set and lower-level judgment means, receiving equipment choice device, acquisition of information transfer device, acquisition of information dispensing device and the message collection condition judgement device below.

[0109]

Control unit 21 plays first effect that releases news receiving system with communication unit 29, and receive query message data from broadcasting station equipment or the node device 2 that is connected the higher levels, message creating apparatus in response then, generate response message according to input in response to query messages from input unit 29a, and this response message is associated with message id that comprises in query message data and broadcasting station ID, and this response message is stored in the memory cell 22.For example, control according to control unit 21, the query messages that will comprise in the query message data that receives by video processing unit 25 is presented in the display unit 26, and in response to the query messages that shows, the user operates input unit 29a and input response (answers) instruction (for example the user selects an option from 5 options of questionnaire), and generation and this are imported corresponding response message.

[0110]

In addition, control unit 21 is delivered to above-mentioned query message data the lower-level node device that is connected to this node device 2.

[0111]

And control unit 21 plays second effect that releases news receiving system with communication unit 29, be used for from broadcasting station equipment 1 or on being connected to the node device 2 of level receive above-mentioned collection message data; And play the effect of response message adding set, be used for and add in the collection message that in collection message data, comprises at the response message and the node device ID of oneself thereof of the generation that memory cell 22 is preserved.

[0112]

In addition, as the lower-level judgment means, in the level under whether control unit 21 definite another node devices 2 are connected, and when determining to have connected node device 2, control unit 21 is as the receiving equipment choice device, and a node device 2 under selecting to be connected in the level is used as collecting the node device 2 that message data will be passed to.In this case, the same with the situation of above-mentioned broadcasting station equipment 1, can carry out this selection at random by generating random number, perhaps can carry out selection by the weight of considering communication path K.For example, when the weight of considering communication path K is carried out when selecting, control unit 21 be arranged in each node device 2 that is connected to this node device 2 under the probability that is directly proportional of total number of node device 2 of level, select a node device 2.The total number that is arranged in the node device 2 of the level under each node device 2 is to obtain by the system management server equipment 3 with reference to the connection topology that is used to manage whole system S.

[0113]

In addition, control unit 21 can be selected another node device 2, rather than the node device of selecting in the past 2.

[0114]

In addition, control unit 21 plays the effect of acquisition of information transfer device with communication unit 29, and above-mentioned collection message data is delivered to the node device 2 of selection according to the IP address.Like this, as mentioned above, transmit successively and include the collection message data that has been added from the collection message of the response message that is positioned at a node device on the communication path K.

[0115]

On the other hand, when control unit 21 is determined not have in the level of other node devices under being connected, perhaps in other words, when this node device 2 is positioned on the lowest hierarchical level, control unit 21 plays the effect of acquisition of information dispensing device with communication unit 29, and obtain IP address (for example the broadcasting station device id is sent to system management server equipment 3 and obtain and its corresponding IP address) from the broadcasting station device id that during collecting message data, comprises, and will collect message data according to this IP address and send to broadcasting station equipment 1.By doing like this, as mentioned above, all accumulate in broadcasting station equipment 1 from the response message that is arranged in all node devices 2 on the communication path K.

[0116]

And as the message collection condition judgement device, control unit 21 can also determine whether to satisfy the specify message collection condition.The message collection condition can be identical with the condition that is used for broadcasting station equipment 1, for example, it can be used to specify collection response message number condition, be used to specify the number of the effective answer that in response message, comprises condition, be used to specify the conditions such as condition of collecting the number of times that message data will be transmitted.This message collection condition can be included in and collects in the message data and be published with collecting message.

[0117]

In addition, when control unit 21 is determined to have satisfied the message collection condition, for example arrive when being used to specify the predetermined number of times of the condition appointment of collecting the number of times that message data will be transmitted when collecting number of times that message data transmitted, even this node device 2 not on lowest hierarchical level, also will be collected message data and send to broadcasting station equipment 1.But, when control unit 21 was determined also not satisfy the message collection condition, a node device 2 under its selection is connected in the level was used as collecting the node device 2 that message data will be passed to.

[0118]

Control unit breaks into bag with content-data and various message data, and the IP address of issue destination is added in the head of each bag, and sends each bag by communication unit 29.

[0119]

In addition, node device 2 does not need to comprise such as all or some assembly in the assemblies such as decoding unit 24, video processing unit 25, display unit 26, audio treatment unit 27 and loud speaker 28, and for example, wherein in another equipment (television receiver, personal computer etc.) that is connected to node device via coaxial cable or LAN (local area network (LAN)) cable, comprise that the structure of these assemblies also is fine.

[0120]

[the 4. operation of tree type issue]

Next tell about the operation of tree-type distribution system S with reference to Fig. 4 to 7.

[0121]

Fig. 4 A is a flow chart, shows the query message data release processing of being carried out by the control unit 11 of broadcasting station equipment 1; Fig. 4 B is a flow chart, shows the query message data of being carried out by the control unit 21 of node device 2 and receives processing.In addition, Fig. 5 is a flow chart, shows the collection message data release processing of being carried out by the control unit 11 of broadcasting station equipment 1; Fig. 6 is a flow chart, shows the collection message sink of being carried out by the control unit 11 of broadcasting station equipment 1 and handles.And Fig. 7 is a flow chart, shows the collection message data of being carried out by the control unit 21 of node device 2 and receives and transmit and handle.

[0122]

Fig. 4 to Fig. 7 shows the example of the processing of carrying out by the control unit 21 of the control unit 11 of broadcasting station equipment 1 or node device 2.

[0123]

[issue and reception query message data]

At first, tell about operation when query message data receives from broadcasting station equipment 1 issue and by node device with reference to Fig. 4.

[0124]

At first, when the processing that begins by broadcasting station equipment 1 shown in Fig. 4 A, obtain include predetermined questionnaire, exam questions, from such as the query messages of individual's inquiry of DJ etc., the message id and the broadcasting station ID (for example from memory cell 12, obtain and it is stored in the appointed area of ROM) (step S1) of this message.Next, generate the query message data (step S2) that includes the query messages, message id and the broadcasting station device id that obtain.

[0125]

Next, according to the node device 2 of all connections that are arranged in the level under the broadcasting station equipment 1 (for example, be node device 2a and 2b in the example shown in the square frame 100 on Fig. 1) the IP address, via the query messages (step S3) of network 10 issue (transmissions) generation, end process afterwards.

[0126]

Next, in node device 2, the processing of beginning shown in Fig. 4 B, and receive from query message data (step S11) 1 issue of broadcasting station equipment or that transmit from node device 2.

[0127]

Next, generate and the corresponding response message of query messages (step S12) that in this query message data, comprises via the instruction input of input unit 29a input according to the user.As mentioned above, response message comprises the answer at query messages, and but, this always is not limited to effective answer, can comprise invalid answer yet.For example, when in the problem of answering questionnaire or test when 5 options are selected an option, this response message can comprise effective answer, the 3rd option of promptly from 5 options, selecting, be used as also can comprising the invalid answer of not selecting any option simultaneously to the questions answer in questionnaire or the test.Under the situation of this invalid answer, do not need to generate response message itself.

[0128]

Next, the response message of generation is associated with message id that comprises in query messages and broadcasting station device id, and it is stored in (step S13) in the memory cell 22.

[0129]

Next, according to the node device 2 of all connections that are arranged in the level under this node device (at the node device 2a of the example shown in the square frame on Fig. 1 100) (for example, be node device 2c and 2d in the example shown in the square frame 100 on Fig. 1) the IP address, transmit query message data (step S14), end process then via network 10.

[0130]

Similarly, node device 2 processing of execution shown in Fig. 4 B of the query message data of such transmission have been received, and this query message data node device in lowest hierarchical level successively 2 is transmitted, till its last arrival adds all node devices 2 of in-tree type communication system S.

[0131]

[message data is collected in issue and reception]

Next, tell about when receiving operation when collecting message datas with reference to Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 from 1 issue of broadcasting station equipment and by each node device 2.

[0132]

At first, when as shown in Figure 5 processing of beginning, in broadcasting station equipment 1, obtain and predeterminedly collect message, as the ID of the message id of the query messages of intelligence-collecting object, broadcasting station equipment 1 and also have message collection condition (step S21) if desired.Then, generate the collection message data (step S22) that includes the collection message, message id and the broadcasting station device id that obtain.

[0133]

Next, determine whether to exist management server reference marker (step S23), and (step S23: not), processing proceeding to step S24 when not having mark.But, when having mark (step S23: be), handle proceeding to step S25.For example, carry out the setting of management server reference marker by the operator of broadcasting station equipment 1.

[0134]

In step S24, generate random number, and the node device of all connections of the level under being arranged in broadcasting station equipment 1 (example shown in the square frame 100 is node device 2a and 2b on Fig. 1) is selected a node device 2 at random.

[0135]

On the other hand, in step S25, broadcasting station equipment is connected to system management server equipment 3 and reference is used for the connection topology of whole system S, and for example obtain the number of all node devices 2 that are arranged in the level under each node device 2 that is connected to broadcasting station equipment 1.

[0136]

Next, consider the weight of each bar communication path, the node device 2 of all connections of the level under being arranged in broadcasting station equipment 1 is selected a node device 2.For example, as mentioned above, be arranged in each node device that obtains 2 under the probability that is directly proportional of total number of node device of level select a node device 2 (step S26).

[0137]

In addition, arrive the node device of selecting 2 (step S27) according to the IP address via the collection message data issue (transmission) that network 10 will generate.

[0138]

Next, in node device 2, as shown in Figure 6 processing of beginning, and receive from broadcasting station equipment 1 or node device 2 issues of level or the collection message data of transmitting (step S31) on being arranged in.

[0139]

Next, from memory cell 22, obtain (reading) and the corresponding response message of message id (response message of in step S13, in memory, storing) that in this collection message data, comprises, and this response message is added in the collection message that comprises in collecting message data (step S32).

[0140]

Next, the node device ID of this node device 2 is attached to this collection message (step S33).

[0141]

Next, determine in this collection message data, whether to include message collection condition (step S34), when including the message collection condition (step S34: be), handle proceeding to step S35.On the other hand, (step S34: not), handle proceeding to step S36 when not comprising the message collection condition.

[0142]

In step S35, collect message data according to this, determine whether to satisfy the message collection condition, and (step S35: not), processing proceeds to step S36, and when having satisfied this condition, handles proceeding to step S37 when also not satisfying this condition.For example, the message collection condition be used to specify collect message data under the situation of condition of the number of times that transmitted, the current number of times that is transmitted of information representation that adds is (up to node device 2, collect the number of times that message data has been transmitted), and when the number of times when front transfer has reached number of times by this condition appointment, handle proceeding to step S37.In addition, for example, in the message collection condition is to be used to specify under the situation of condition of number of response message of collection, with the number of response message of the current collection of expression (up to this node device 2, the number of the response message of collecting) information is attached on this condition, and when the response number of current collection has reached response number by the collection of this condition appointment, handle proceeding to step S37.Can also determine whether to satisfy the condition of the number that is used to specify the effective answer that in response message, comprises.

[0143]

In step S36, determine whether to exist in the level of other node devices 2 under being connected, and when not having node device 2 to be connected (step S36: not), handle proceeding to step S37, and when existing node device 2 to be connected (step S36: be), handle proceeding to step S38.

[0144]

In step S37, from the broadcasting station device id that during collecting message data, comprises, obtain the IP address, and according to this IP address, the collection message data that will include the collection message of having adhered to response message etc. via network 10 sends to broadcasting station equipment 1.

[0145]

In step S38, determine whether to exist the management server reference marker, and (step S38: not), processing proceeding to step S39 when not having mark.But, when having mark (step S38: be), handle proceeding to step S40.The management server reference marker can be included in the collection message data that is provided with on broadcasting station equipment 1 side and be published, and perhaps can be provided with by the user of node device 2.

[0146]

In step S39, generate random number, and the node device (example shown in the square frame 100 is node device 2c and 2d on Fig. 1) of all connections of the level under being arranged in node device 2 (is node device 2a at the example shown in the square frame on Fig. 1 100) is selected a node device 2 at random.

[0147]

On the other hand, in step S40, this node device 2 is connected to system management server equipment 3 and with reference to the connection topology of whole system S, and for example obtains total number of the node device 2 that is arranged in the level under each node device 2 that is connected to this node device 2.

[0148]

Next, consider the weight of each bar communication path, the node device 2 of all connections of the level under being arranged in node device 2 is selected a node device 2, and for example, as mentioned above, with be arranged in each node device that obtains 2 under the probability that is directly proportional of total number of node device 2 of level, select a node device 2.

[0149]

In addition, will collect the node device 2 (step S42) that message data is delivered to this selection via network 10 according to the IP address, and end process.

[0150]

Similarly, node device 2 execution processing have as shown in Figure 6 been received as the collection message data of above-mentioned transmission, and will collect message data 2 transmission of the node device on the lowest hierarchical level that is positioned at a communication path K successively, till in step S35, satisfying the message collection condition, perhaps till in step S36, determining not have other node devices to be connected in the lower-level.

[0151]

Fig. 8 shows when satisfying the message collection condition and sends the example of collecting message data along communication path K3, and Fig. 9 shows the example that sends collection message data when not satisfying the message collection condition along communication path K3.In example shown in Figure 8, be delivered to node device 2a, 2d and the 2i that is positioned on the communication path K3 successively with collecting message data, and on node device 2m, satisfy the message collection condition and for example be used to specify the condition of collecting the number of times (being 4 times) that message data will be transmitted in example, send to broadcasting station equipment 1 thereby will collect message data from node device 2m.On the other hand, in example as shown in Figure 9, be delivered to node device 2a, 2d, 2i, 2m and the 2n that is positioned on the communication path K3 successively with collecting message data, and owing to do not satisfy the message collection condition, therefore be positioned at node device on the lowest hierarchical level and will collect message data and send to broadcasting station equipment 1 at any node device along this path.

[0152]

In this collection message data, comprised under the situation that is used to specify the condition of collecting the number of times that message data will be transmitted, the each transmission when collecting message data, the current number of times that is transmitted that is attached on this condition increases progressively with " 1 ".In addition, in this collection message data, comprised under the situation of condition of the number that is used to specify the response message that will be collected, (be added to and collect in the message) when collecting response message at every turn, the current number that is attached to the response message on this condition increases progressively with " 1 ".

[0153]

[receive and issue again and collect message data]

Next tell about when sending from node device 2 and receiving with reference to Fig. 7 and collect message data and the operation when broadcasting station equipment 1 issue collection message data more then by broadcasting station equipment 1.

[0154]

At first, in broadcasting station equipment 1, beginning processing as shown in Figure 7, and receive the collection message data (step S51) that sends from node device 2.

[0155]

Next, collect message data, determine whether to satisfy the message collection condition, and (step S52: not), processing proceeds to step S53, and when satisfying condition (step S52: be), handles proceeding to step S58 when not satisfying condition according to this.

[0156]

For example, in the message collection condition is to be used to specify under the situation of condition of number of the effective answer that comprises in response message, the answer number that comprises in the response message (adding the response message of collecting message to) as the collection of effectively answering is counted, and when effective answer number of counting is equal to or greater than number by effective answer of condition appointment, handle proceeding to step S58.In addition, for example, message collection condition therein is to be used to specify under the situation of condition of number of the response message that will be collected, and when the number of the response message of collecting is equal to or greater than number by the response message that will be collected of this condition appointment, handles proceeding to step S58.And, be to be used to specify under the situation of the condition of collecting the number of times that message data will be transmitted in the message collection condition, when collecting actual frequency that message data transmitted when arriving number of times by this condition appointment, handle proceeding to step S58.

[0157]

In step S53, determine whether to exist the management server reference marker, and (step S53: not), processing proceeding to step S54 when not having mark.On the other hand, when having mark (step S53: be), handle proceeding to step S55.Being provided with of management server reference marker can be carried out by the operator who is positioned on broadcasting station equipment 1 side.

[0158]

In step S54, generate random number, and from the node device of all connections that are arranged in the level under the broadcasting station equipment 1 except selecteed node device 2 before select at random a node device 2 (but, under the situation of having selected all node devices 2 under the situation that does not proceed to step S58, the node device 2 that has also comprised this selection, and following also be identical).Can also increase in the past non-selected node device 2 selecteed probability in the future.

[0159]

On the other hand, in step S55, broadcasting station equipment 1 is connected to system management server equipment 3 and with reference to the connection topology that is used for whole system S, for example, obtains total number of the node device 2 that is arranged in the level under each node device 2 that is connected to broadcasting station equipment.

[0160]

Next, consider the weight of each bar communication path K, select a node device 2 from the node device 2 of all connections that are arranged in the level under the broadcasting station equipment 1 except selecteed node device 2 before, for example, as mentioned above, except selecteed node device before, be arranged in each node device that obtains 2 under the probability that is directly proportional of total number of node device 2 of level, select a node device 2 (step S56).

[0161]

To collect the node device 2 (for example, being distributed on the collection message data that receives among the step S51) (step S57) that message data is published to selection again according to the IP address via network 10, and end process.

[0162]

The processing of carrying out as shown in Figure 6 by this node device 2 like this, similarly.Under the situation that collection message data is issued again, in step as shown in Figure 6, generate random number, and select a node device 2 at random from the node device of all connections that are arranged in the level under the node device 2 except the node device of selecting before.But, in step S41, consider the weight of each bar communication path K, the node device 2 of all connections of the level under being arranged in this node device 2 is selected a node device 2.Can also increase in the past never the node device 2 of selected mistake selecteed probability in the future.

[0163]

Figure 10 shows issue again and collects message data to satisfy the example of message collection condition.In example shown in Figure 10, be delivered to the node device 2a that is positioned on the communication path K3 successively with collecting message data, 2d, 2i, 2m and 2n, but, owing on the node device 2 in this path, do not satisfying the message collection condition, therefore this collection message data sends to broadcasting station equipment 1 from the node device 2 that is arranged in lowest hierarchical level, to collect message data issue more successively (transmission again) afterwards to the node device 2b that is positioned on the K4 of different communication path, 2e and 2l, and when satisfying the message collection condition on node device 2p, this collection message data sends to broadcasting station equipment 1 from this node device 2.

[0164]

In addition, in step S58, carry out such as designated treatment such as countings according to the response message of collecting.For example, in response message, comprised under the situation of answer of questionnaire, answer to this questionnaire is counted, and selects certain response message at random or arbitrarily from response message, will be defined as award-winner's node device ID with the corresponding node device ID of this message then.In addition, for example, when in response message, including the answer of test, to counting as the answer of the correct answer of testting, and from the response message that comprises correct answer, select certain response message at random or arbitrarily, then the individual's of the correct answer that will be defined as testting with the corresponding node device ID of this message node device.And, for example when in response message, having comprised DJ, answering under the situation that requires conversation, from response message, select certain response message at random or arbitrarily, the user's who converses with DJ that will be defined as selecting with the corresponding node device ID of this message then node device ID.In addition, broadcasting station equipment 1 is connected to and the corresponding node device of determining 2 of node device ID, and transmission represents that this user is award-winner or the correct individual's who answers a information, perhaps begins the conversation between DJ and the user.

[0165]

As mentioned above, pass through present embodiment, collect message data from 1 issue of broadcasting station equipment successively via a communication path K among many communication path K, it comprises the collection message that is used to collect with the corresponding response message of query messages, and send (returning) following collection message data to broadcasting station equipment 1 from a node device 2 that is positioned on the communication path K that has transmitted this collection message data successively, wherein said collection message data comprises by being positioned at the collection message that all node devices 2 on this communication path K are added with response message, therefore response message can be collected more efficiently, and the whole traffic on the up direction in the tree-type distribution system can be reduced.

[0166]

In addition, the communication path K that determines to transmit this collection message data by the weight of considering this communication path K (for example, with the probability that is directly proportional with the total number that is arranged in the node device 2 of wanting the level under the selecteed node device 2), therefore can when selecting communication path K, keep fairness.

[0167]

In addition, issue (transmitting again) again from broadcasting station equipment 1 and collect message data, till the message collection condition that has satisfied appointment, therefore can collect the response message of expectation reliably.

[0168] second embodiment

Tell about the second embodiment of the present invention below with reference to the accompanying drawings.Below Shuo Ming embodiment is for being applied to the present invention the embodiment in the computer network system.

[0169]

[the 1. structure of tree network system]

At first, Figure 11 is used to tell about the structure of the tree network system of preferred embodiment.

[0170]

Figure 11 shows the example of the connection status of each equipment in the tree network system of second embodiment.Example shown in Figure 11 shows the state that is electrically connected (for example, such as the annexation between the equipment of having set up communication therein) between each equipment among the S of tree network system.

[0171]

As shown in figure 11, the S of this tree network system is equity (P2P) type network system, and it comprises: broadcasting equipment 201, as being used to send the example that receives the query facility of beginning data Rb as the request of Query Information; And a plurality of node devices (peer device) 202a, 202b, 202c ..., 202p, as being used to receive the example that above-mentioned request receives a plurality of treatment facilities of beginning data Rb.

[0172]

As shown in figure 11, in the S of tree network system, there is multilayer, it has as top broadcasting equipment 201 and a plurality of node device 202a to 202p, their according to separately IP address via many communication path 203a, 203b, 203c ..., 203p connects with tree structure.

[0173]

In addition, by the various data of broadcasting equipment 201 issue from being passed to such as low level level node devices such as 202g to 202p successively such as high-order level node devices such as 202a and 202b.In following telling about, for simplicity, when among the expression node device 202a to 202p any, this node device can be abbreviated as node device 202.

[0174]

Broadcasting equipment 201 and a plurality of node device 202a to 202p by physical connection to such as including the equipment that is positioned at such as IX (internet exchange), ISP (Internet service provider), DSL suppliers such as (Digital Subscriber Line); Be positioned at FTTH (optical fiber is registered one's residence) line feed merchant's equipment; And such as the networks such as internet of communication lines such as telephone wire and optical cable, and broadcasting equipment 201 and each node device 202a to 202p are assigned with its oneself only device id and IP (Internet Protocol) address.

[0175]

[26S Proteasome Structure and Function of broadcasting equipment]

Next, Figure 12 is used to tell about the 26S Proteasome Structure and Function of broadcasting equipment 201.

[0176]

Figure 12 shows the structure of broadcasting equipment 201.

[0177]

As shown in figure 12, broadcasting equipment 201 comprises: the control unit 211 of computer, and it comprises CPU (CPU), the RAM (random access storage device) that is used for work with computing function and is used for store various kinds of data and the ROM of program (read-only memory); Memory cell 212 includes the HDD (hard disk drive) that is used for store various kinds of data, form and program; Operation input unit 213 is used to provide the instruction that is used to send request reception data; Coding unit 214 is used for receive video data (video information) that data comprise and voice data (audio-frequency information) encode (data compression, coding etc.) in request; And communication unit 215, be used to control communicating by letter via network 10 and node device 202; Wherein each of these assemblies interconnects via bus 216.In addition, be stored in program among the ROM etc. by execution, control unit 211 plays Query Information dispensing device of the present invention and replys the effect of object information receiving system.

[0178]

Request receives data and receives end data Re for asking reception beginning data Rb or request, and for example creates by the operators such as music program host such as the radio station, and described operator operates broadcasting equipment 201 by operating input unit 213.More particularly, the operator creates such as requests such as " beholders (or listener) that request is arranged; please press a call button " and receives beginning data Rb, be used as video data or also include the multi-medium data of voice data, and after adhering to the ID code that expression begins to receive the request input, save the data in the memory cell 212.The operator creates such as " request of reception finishes, and thanks in addition! " wait request to receive end data Re, be used as video data or voice data, and after the ID code that adheres to expression end reception request input, save the data in the memory cell 212.

[0179]

As long as the ID code can be discerned by node device, the method that then is used to adhere to above-mentioned ID code can be any method; For example, under the situation of carrying out the coding that uses MPEG (dynamic image expert group) form, the ID code can enter in the user data part of sequence layer (sequence layer).

[0180]

In addition, when the operator operates and provides when being used to send request and receiving beginning data Rb or request and receive the instruction of end data Re operation input unit 213, CPU in the control unit 211 carries out program stored in memory cell 212, and in this process, the request that control unit 211 reads in storage in the memory cell 212 receives beginning data Rb or request reception end data Re, 214 pairs of video datas that comprise in these data of coding unit and/or voice data are encoded then, and via communication unit 215 these data are sent to node device 202 ( node device 202a and 202b in example shown in Figure 11).Node device 202 determines that according to the ID data that are attached to these data these data are that request receives beginning data Rb or request receives end data Re.

[0181]

In addition, communication unit 215 has such as various communication functions such as bag processing, UDP processing, data link processing, physical layer process, and after request receives that data have been broken into bag and has been attached to each packet header as the IP address of the node device 202 that sends the destination, from communication unit 215 with its transmission.

[0182]

Can be as the IP address of the node device 202 that sends the destination (in the example of the S of tree network system shown in Figure 11, these are to be connected node device 202a in the positive lower floor and the IP address of 202b) by obtaining with reference to the connection status table of storage in memory cell 212 and according to the control of control unit 211.

[0183]

Come below to tell about in more detail and be used for sending the processing that (transmission) request receives data.

[0184]

And control unit 211 plays the effect of replying the object information receiving system with communication unit 215, is used for receiving and replying object information Ans from the node device (being node device 202a and 202b example shown in Figure 11) that is connected positive lower floor.

[0185]

Reply object information Ans and comprise and select nodal information X and total number information N, the selection nodal information X that its expression is selected from this selection nodal information X is used as the example of return information of the present invention.Here, selecting nodal information X is the information that is used for representing one of the node device of selection from the node device in node device 202 downstreams that are connected positive lower floor and node device 202 itself, and it comprises the ID information that gives each node device 202, is used to discern these equipment.

[0186]

When each of each node device 202 of communication unit 215 from be connected positive lower floor receive to be replied object information Ans, it came to select one to select nodal information X from each of the selection nodal information X that comprises among the answer object information Ans that receives according to the control of control unit 211.When doing like this, it selects one to select nodal information X according to each the total number information N that comprises in the answer object information Ans that receives.

[0187]

In other words, in example shown in Figure 11, broadcasting equipment 201 from be connected positive lower floor node device 202a and each among the 202b receive to reply object information Ans, and the answer object information Ans that sends from node device 202a comprises the selection nodal information X that is used for representing the node device selected from node device 202c, 202d, 202g, 202h, 202i and the 202j in node device 202a itself and node device 202a downstream and total number information N (N=6) therein.

[0188]

In addition, the answer object information Ans that sends from node device 202b comprises selection nodal information X and the total number information N (N=9) that is used for representing the node device selected from node device 202e, 202f, 202k, 202l, 202m, 202n, 202o and the 202p in node device 202b itself and node device 202b downstream therein.

[0189]

Therefore, broadcasting equipment 201 selects one to select nodal information X according to the total number information N that comprises among the answer object information Ans from the two from selection nodal information X that comprises among the answer object information Ans that sends from node device 202a and the selection nodal information X that comprises among the answer object information Ans that sends from node device 202b.

[0190]

By this structure, when from the selection nodal information X that in from answer object information Ans, comprises, selecting one to select nodal information X as node device 202a that is connected the node device the positive lower floor and node device 202b, when selecting, can consider to be connected total number information N of node device 202 in the downstream of node device 202a and 202b, therefore can select the selection nodal information X that generates by all node devices 202 equably.Be used to select the detailed method of the processing of nodal information X to select the method handled identical, therefore when the return information of telling about node device 202 is selected processing, it told about with carry out return information by node device 202.

[0191]

[26S Proteasome Structure and Function of node device]

Next, Figure 13 is used to tell about the 26S Proteasome Structure and Function of node device 202.

[0192]

Figure 13 has explained the example of structure of node device 202.

[0193]

As shown in figure 13, each node device 202 all comprises: control unit 221, as the computer of each assembly that is used for Control Node equipment 202; Memory cell 222 comprises disk that is used for store various kinds of data, form and program etc.; Buffer storage 223 is used for the request reception data that temporary transient storage receives; Decoding unit 224 is used for video data and the voice data through the coding that comprise in request reception data are decoded; Video processing unit 225 is used for handling and these data being exported as vision signal carrying out specify image through the video data of decoding; Display unit M such as CRT or LCD etc., is used for according to coming display video image from the vision signal of video processing unit 225 outputs; Audio treatment unit 226 is used for converting the digital audio-frequency data through decoding to simulated audio signal (D/A conversion), this signal is amplified and the output result by amplifier afterwards; Operation input unit 227 is operated by the user who files a request; And communication unit 228, be used for controlling via the network executive communication between node device 202 and broadcasting equipment 201 or another node device 202; Wherein control unit 221, memory cell 222, buffer storage 223, decoding unit 224, operation input unit 227 and communication unit 228 interconnect via bus 219.

[0194]

Control unit 221 comprises: CPU (CPU) (not shown); Work RAM (random access storage device); ROM (read-only memory) is used to store the various control programs and the various data that include handling procedure; And oscillating circuit; It is according to the operation signal from the operating unit (not shown), generation is used for controlling the control information of carrying out with each assembly of the corresponding operation of operation information that comprises at operation signal, and via bus 219 control information is outputed to appropriate assembly, with the integral body control of the operation of carrying out these assemblies.In addition, by carrying out program stored in ROM etc., control unit 221 plays Query Information receiving system of the present invention, query messages transfer device, replys the object information receiving system, the return information creation apparatus, reply the object information creation apparatus, reply the object information return mechanism, choice device, total number information acquisition device, total number information transmitting apparatus, ending message receiving system, answer information input receiver and etc. bide one's time and ask the effect of setting device.

[0195]

More particularly, when the CPU of control unit 211 carries out in memory cell 222 grades program stored, control unit 211 plays the effect of Query Information receiving system with communication unit 228, and via communication unit 228 receive from broadcasting equipment 201 send or node device 202 from be connected positive upper strata (for example, in Figure 11, the node device 202 that is connected in the positive upper strata of node device 202c is node device 202a) the next request reception data of transmission, and simultaneously with this storage in buffer storage 223, the request of reading receives data from buffering memory 223,224 pairs of video datas that comprise in these data of decoding unit and voice data are decoded then, and video data is outputed to video processing unit 225 and voice data is outputed to audio output unit 227.

[0196]

In addition, (the node device 202g to 202p in the bottom) control unit 211 plays the effect of Query Information transfer device with communication unit 228, and will receive data passes from the request that the node device being connected positive upper strata 202 sends to the node device 202 that is connected in the positive lower floor via communication unit 228.

[0197]

In other words, in example shown in Figure 11, the node device 202 that is connected in the positive lower floor of node device 202a is node device 202c and 202d, therefore when node device 202a when broadcasting equipment 201 receives request and receives data, it should ask the reception data passes to arrive node device 202c and 202d.

[0198]

In addition, the node device 202 that is connected in the positive lower floor of node device 202c is node device 202g to 202i, therefore when the node device 202a of node device 202c from be connected high-order level received request reception data, it should ask to receive data passes to node device 202g to 202i.

[0199]

Like this, the request that sends from broadcasting equipment 201 receives data and is delivered to first degree node device 202g to 202p successively.

[0200]

Here, similar with above-mentioned broadcasting equipment 201, control unit 211 receives the transmission destination of data with reference to the connection status table of storage in memory cell 222 to determine request.This connection status table comprises the IP address of the node device 202 that this node device 202 and this node device are connected at least.

[0201]

And, operation input unit 227 plays the effect of answer information input receiver with control unit 221, and it comprises request button, operation bar and keyboard etc., and receive the time of beginning data Rb until till receiving request reception end data Re, operation input unit 227 receives from the request of user's input and is used as answer information from the request of resetting by loud speaker U or display unit M and export by communication unit 228 receptions.

[0202]

In addition, control unit 221 plays the effect of return information creation apparatus, and according to input request, creates the selection nodal information X as the example of the return information among the present invention, and temporarily with this information stores in memory cell 222.

[0203]

And control unit 221 plays the effect of replying the object information receiving system with communication unit 228, and the selection nodal information X that reception each node device 202 from be connected positive lower floor sends is used as replying object information Ans.In addition, control unit 221 plays the effect of stand-by period setting device, and in the past out-of-date time T o (below will tell about) afterwards, receive the answer object information Ans that each node device 202 from be connected positive lower floor sends.

[0204]

And, control unit 221 plays the effect of replying the object information creation apparatus, and, create new answer object information Ans according to as the selection nodal information X that is connected each node device 202 transmission in the positive lower floor that replys object information Ans and by the selection nodal information X that itself creates.

[0205]

In addition, control unit 221 plays the effect of replying the object information return mechanism with communication unit 228, and the answer object information Ans that will create transmits (transmission) to the node device 202 that is connected in the positive upper strata.The answer object information Ans that node device 202a and 202b will newly create transmits (transmission) to broadcasting equipment 201.

[0206]

In other words, when the node device 202 except the node device 202g to 202p of lowermost layer receives when replying object information Ans by communication unit 228 each node device 202 from be connected positive lower floor, its control according to control unit 211 selects one to select nodal information X from all of the selection nodal information X that respectively select nodal information X and itself created by this node device 202 that comprise among the answer object information Ans that receives.When doing like this, each of total number information N that its basis comprises in the answer object information Ans that receives selects one to select nodal information X.

[0207]

In addition, control unit 211 is created new answer object information Ans, and it comprises the selection nodal information X of selection and is used to represent from what selection nodal information X selected total number information N of this selection nodal information.

[0208]

Lowermost level node device 202g to 202p does not have the answer object information Ans from downstream node equipment, therefore they create the answer object information Ans that has wherein selected by the node device 202 selection nodal information X that create own, and total number information N only itself counts this equipment.

[0209]

By doing like this, in broadcasting equipment 201, can know what described items of selecting to have selected the nodal information X from the answer object information Ans of node device 202a and node device 202b transmission, to comprise to select nodal information X from, and, can select among every selection nodal information X equably according to this quantity.Come below to tell about in detail and be used to generate the method for replying object information Ans.

[0210]

Node device 202 need not comprise as all or part assembly in the assemblies such as the decoding unit 224 of the assembly of node device 202, video processing unit 225, display unit M, audio treatment unit 226 and loud speaker U, and structure can be such: another equipment (for example television receiver and personal computer etc.) that is connected to node device 202 via coaxial cable and LAN (local area network (LAN)) cable etc. comprises these assemblies.

[0211]

[request of broadcasting equipment receives data sending processing]

Come at first, below to tell about in detail and send the processing that request receives data by broadcasting equipment 201 of the present invention.

[0212]

Use Figure 11 to Figure 15 to tell about below and will ask to receive the processing that data send to the processing of node device 202 and receive answer object information Ans from node device 202 from broadcasting equipment 201.

[0213]

Figure 14 has explained transmission and the reception that the request between broadcasting equipment 201 and the node device 202 receives data and replys object information Ans, wherein in the figure, between broadcasting equipment 201 and node device 202a, node device 202c and node device 202g, send and receive various data.

[0214]

Figure 15 is a flow chart, show the processing of carrying out by the control unit 211 of broadcasting equipment 201, be used for sending request and receive data, wherein the processing shown in the flow chart is based in the ROM (not shown) of control unit 211 inside that program stored in advance carries out according to the control of control unit 211.

[0215]

Processing shown in Figure 15 begins by following instruction, and this instruction is used to send the request that is provided by the operator such as the music program host's in the radio station of operating operation input unit 213 etc. broadcasting equipment 201 and receives beginning data Rb.In addition, at this moment, the operator enters request possibility period Tr (for example 1 minute or 1 hour), and it is stored in the RAM (not shown) of control unit.

[0216]

At first, broadcasting equipment 201 will ask to receive beginning data Rb and send to the node device 202 (step S101) that is connected in the positive lower floor.In example shown in Figure 11, request is received beginning data Rb send to node device 202a and the 202b that is connected in the positive lower floor.

[0217]

In addition, broadcasting equipment 201 uses the internal clocking that is installed in the broadcasting equipment 201, with beginning Measuring Time (step S102).Next, broadcasting equipment 201 has determined whether over the request of storing in the RAM of control unit 211 may period Tr (step S103), and when determining also not pass by request possibility period Tr (step S103: deny), the processing of repeating step S103.In other words, broadcasting equipment 201 is before carrying out next one processing, and the request of waiting for may be gone over by period Tr.

[0218]

On the other hand, determine request over and done with may period Tr the time (step S103: be) when broadcasting equipment 201, it will ask to receive end data Re and send to the node device 202 (being node device 202a and 202b) (step S104) that is connected in the positive lower floor in example shown in Figure 11.

[0219]

In example shown in Figure 14, will ask to receive beginning data Rb after broadcasting equipment 201 sends to node device 202a, broadcasting equipment 201 only may will ask the reception end data to send to node device 202a after the period Tr in over and done with request.

[0220]

When doing like this, according to the traffic load between broadcasting equipment 201, node device 202a, node device 202c and the node device 202g, transmission lag time T d1, Td2 and Td3 take place respectively in data communication.But, the request that structure makes broadcasting equipment 201 will be used to represent to receive the end that the request of request input may period Tr separately receives end data Re and sends (issue) to each node device 202, so each node device 202 can also accurately keep requests possibility period Tr of being provided with by broadcasting equipment 201.

[0221]

Next, the time started is measured (step S105) to broadcasting equipment 201 once more.

[0222]

Next, broadcasting equipment 201 determines whether that all node devices 202 from be connected positive lower floor have received answer object information Ans (step S106).As result as this judgement, determine also not have all node devices 202 from be connected positive lower floor not receive (step S106: not) when replying object information Ans, broadcasting equipment 201 has determined whether predetermined out-of-date time T o (step S107) over and done with, and (step S107: not), handle turning back to step S106 when also not passing by out-of-date time T o.

[0223]

On the other hand, the result who judges in as step S106, determine that all node devices 202 from be connected positive lower floor receive when replying object information Ans (step S106: be), perhaps work as the result who judges among the step S107, during to determine over and done with out-of-date time T o (step S107: be), broadcasting equipment 201 is carried out and is selected nodal informations to select to handle (step S108).

[0224]

Be used to carry out and select nodal information to select method of handling and the selection nodal information that is undertaken by node device 202 to select the identical of processing, therefore will tell about in detail below.

[0225]

[the answer object information of node device sends and handles]

Next, use Figure 11 to Figure 17 to tell about the processing that sends a reply object information by node device 202 of the present invention in detail.

[0226]

Figure 16 is a flow chart, shows the answer object information of being carried out by the control unit 211 of node device 202 and sends processing.Here tell about according to the answer object information Ans of 202 transmissions of the node device from be connected positive lower floor with by the selection nodal information X that node device itself is created and create new answer object information Ans and will be somebody's turn to do the method that the new answer object information Ans that creates sends to node device 202 or is connected the broadcasting equipment 201 in the high-order level.Therefore, the node device 202g to 202p in the lowest order level, the step S118 in this processing is to the processing of carrying out by node device 202a to 202f that is treated to of step S120.

[0227]

At first, when from broadcasting equipment 201 or the 202 reception request reception beginning data Rb of the node device from be connected positive upper strata (step S110), node device 202 begins reception asks input (step S111).More particularly, receive that beginning data Rb decodes and carried out by video processing unit 225 and/or audio treatment unit 226 and to have specified after output handles in the request of 224 pairs of receptions of decoding unit, the video and the audio message of combination are output from display unit M and/or loud speaker U such as " beholder (or listener) that request is arranged; please press a call button ", and when user expectation is asked, user's operating operation input unit 227 is to produce this request.

[0228]

Node device 202 also will ask to receive beginning data Rb by communication unit 228 and be delivered to the node device 202 (step S112) that is connected in the positive lower floor.In example shown in Figure 11, node device 202a will ask to receive beginning data Rb and be delivered to node device 202c, and node device 202c is delivered to node device 202g to 202i with it.

[0229]

Next, node device 202 uses the request of being attached to receive the ID code of data, receives end data Re (step S113) to determine whether the request of receiving.When node device 202 determines that the request of also not receiving receives end data Re (step S113: not), the processing of repeating step S113.In other words, before carrying out next the processing, wait for, till the request of receiving receives end data Re.

[0230]

On the other hand, when node device determines that the request of having received receives end data Re (step S113: be), finish to receive request input (step S114).More particularly, after the request of 224 pairs of receptions of decoding unit receives that end data Re decodes and has carried out designated treatment by video processing unit 225 and/or audio treatment unit 226, the video of combination and audio message such as " request of receiving finishes, and thanks very much! " be output from display unit M and/or loud speaker U, and the user stops using operation input unit 227 to ask.In addition, even the user can operating operation input unit 227, also can carry out control receiving when the request of receiving on the step of end data Re when stopping to receive the request input.

[0231]

And node device 202 also will ask to receive end data Re by communication unit 228 and be delivered to the node device (step S115) that is connected in the positive lower floor.In example shown in Figure 11, node device 202a will ask to receive end data Re and be delivered to node device 202c, and node device 202c will ask reception end data Re to be delivered to node device 202g to 202i.

[0232]

In addition, node device 202 is determined from begin to receive the time of request input until finish to receive the time durations of request input in step 8114 whether have request input (step S116) among step S111.When as the result who judges, determine not exist (step S116: not), handle proceeding to step S118 when asking input.But, when as the result who judges, determine to exist when asking input (step S116: be), node device 202 is created the selection nodal information X (step S117) that is used to represent to exist request.Wait a moment the answer object information of telling about when execution and create the selection nodal information X that uses this node itself to create when handling, therefore it is stored in the memory cell 222.When in step S116, not having the request input, do not create the selection nodal information of this node device itself.

[0233]

In addition, node device 202 uses the internal clocking of node device 202, with beginning Measuring Time (step S118).

[0234]

Next, node device 202 determines whether that all node devices 202 from be connected positive lower floor have received answer object information Ans (step S119).As result as this judgement, node device 202 determines that also all node devices 202 from be connected positive lower floor do not receive (step S119: not) when replying object information Ans, determined whether over and done with as receiving the out-of-date time T o (step S120) that the stand-by period is provided with in advance, and (step S120: not), handle turning back to step S119 when determining also not pass by out-of-date time T o.

[0235]

On the other hand, when as the judged result among the step S119, node device 202 determines that all node devices 202 from be connected positive lower floor receive when replying object information Ans (step S119: be), perhaps work as the judged result among the step S120, during to determine over and done with out-of-date time T o (step S120: be), carry out according to the answer object information Ans that receives this moment and to reply object information and create and handle (step S121).Under the situation that does not have the node device 202 that is connected in the positive lower floor, node device 202 is execution in step S118 to S120 not.

[0236]

In addition, total number information N and be included among the answer object information Ans that the node device 202 from be connected positive lower floor sends by the selection nodal information X that the node device 202 that is connected in the positive lower floor is selected, and as shown in figure 17, multinomial answer object information Ans is stored in the memory cell 222.In other words, exist k to be connected under the situation of the node device 202 in the positive lower floor, k item total number information N and every selection nodal information X are associated, and are stored in the memory cell 222.

[0237]

In addition, node device 202 will be created the answer object information Ans that creates in handling at the answer object information that will be told about and send to the node device 202 ( node device 202a and 202b will reply object information Ans and send to broadcasting equipment 201) (step S122) that is connected in the positive upper strata, and end process then.

[0238]

[reply object information and create processing]

Next telling about the answer object information of above-mentioned step S121 handles.

[0239]

Figure 18 is a flow chart, shows by the control unit 221 performed answer object informations of node device 202 and creates processing.In following telling about, suppose that the node device 202g to 202p in the lowest order level has proposed request, and in this case, node device 202g to 202p establishment answer object information Ans in the lowest order level is used as the selection nodal information X by node device establishment itself, and create total number information N, and this information sent to be connected each node device 202c to 202f in the positive upper strata as 1.

[0240]

At first, according to the answer object information Ans that each node device 202 from be connected positive lower floor sends, total number M of the equipment in the low level level that node device 202 calculates under this node device 202.

[0241]

In other words, as shown in figure 17, all total number information N1, N2, N3, the N4 of 202 pairs of storages in memory cell 222 of node device ... N (k) gathers, to obtain total number M of equipment.

[0242]

Here, Figure 19 is used for telling about in more detail total number information N.

[0243]

At first, a selection nodal information X and a total number information N who selects nodal information X, node device 202c itself to create who selects among the selection nodal information X that comprises among the answer object information Ans that each node device 202 that node device 202c will be from be connected positive lower floor (being node device 202g, 202h and 202i in the example of Figure 19) sends sends to node device 202a as answer object information Ans.Here, total number information N is that the total number (being 3 in example shown in Figure 19) that is connected the node device 202 under the node device 202c itself adds number " 1 " (ading up to 4 in example shown in Figure 19) own.

[0244]

In addition, similarly, a selection nodal information X and a total number information N who selects nodal information X, node device 202d itself to create who selects among the selection nodal information X that node device 202d will comprise from the answer object information Ans that the node device being connected positive lower floor 202 (being node device 202j in example shown in Figure 19) sends sends to node device 202a as replying object information Ans.Here, total number information N is that the total number (being 1 in example shown in Figure 19) that is connected the node device 202 under the node device 202d itself adds number " 1 " (ading up to 2 in example shown in Figure 19) own.

[0245]

By doing like this, received each the node device 202a that replys object information Ans from node device 202c and node device 202d and can from each total number information N, know from what and select nodal information X to select to select nodal information X, and can select one to select nodal information X in view of the above equitably at described that from every answer object information Ans that node device 202c and node device 202d send, comprises.Tell about ten thousand methods of selecting nodal information X after a while in detail.

[0246]

For example, selecting the selection nodal information Xg that comprises from the answer object information Ans that node device 202g sends when, node device 202c obtains the total number information as 4, and these are sent to node device 202a as replying object information Ans.

[0247]

On the other hand, selected at node device 202d under the situation of selection nodal information Xd of establishment own, select nodal information Xd together with this, also obtain total number information N (node device 202d and node device 202j), and these are sent to node device 202a as replying object information Ans as 2.

[0248]

By doing like this, every answer object information Ans according to node device 202c from be connected positive lower floor and node device 202d transmission, node device 202a according to every total number information N (in example shown in Figure 19, every total number information N is 4 and 2), check from what described items of selecting nodal information X to select to pass through node device 202c and node device 202d selection and select nodal information X (among Figure 19, being selection nodal information Xg and Xd), and consider its weight, from the every selection nodal information Xg that selects by node device 202c and node device 202d respectively and Xd, select one to select nodal information X.In addition, node device 202a creates answer object information Ans according to the selection nodal information X that selects (being selection nodal information Xg in Figure 19) and total number information N (being 7) in example shown in Figure 19, and sends it to broadcasting equipment 201.

[0249]

In other words, in step S131, node device 202 reference memory units 222, and obtain and be added on the every total number information N that comprises among every answer object information Ans of each node device 202 transmission from be connected positive lower floor, and total number M of computing equipment.

[0250]

Next, node device 202 determines whether there is selection nodal information X (step S132) in memory cell 222.In other words, when existence request input in above-mentioned steps S116, the selection nodal information X that will create in step S117 is stored in the memory cell 222, and when not having the request input, does not select nodal information X in memory cell 222 with regard to not having.

[0251]

In addition, when as the judged result in step S132, determine to exist in memory cell 222 when selecting nodal information (step S132: be), node device 202 will be used for the total number M (step S133) of adding equipment to of itself.But, (step S132: not), node device 202 moves to step S134 when determining not have selection nodal information X in memory cell 222.

[0252]

The pseudo random number W (step S134) that node device 202 generates between 0 to 9999.In addition, will be used for representing that the value " k " that is connected the node device 202 of positive lower floor is initialized as " 1 " (step S135).Next, obtain total number information N (k) of k node device 202 transmissions of the node device 202 that is connected in the positive lower floor, as variable T (step S136).

[0253]

In addition, node device 202 is selected nodal information (step S137 is to step S142) according to total number information.

[0254]

At first, whether the node device 202 pseudo random number W that determines to generate in step S134 is less than T * 10000/M (step S138).When determining pseudo random number W less than T * 10000/M as judged result (step S138: be), node device 202 is selected nodal information X (k) (step S139).

[0255]

For example, tell about the situation of carrying out processing by node device 202a shown in Figure 19 below.At the total number information N (1)=4 that from the answer object information Ans that node device 202c sends, comprises with select nodal information Xg, and at the total number information N (2)=2 that sends from node device 202d with select nodal information Xd to be stored in the memory cell 222.

[0256]

Afterwards, suppose that node device 202a has the selection nodal information in memory cell 222 in the processing of step S133, then next tell about total number M of the equipment that is acquired as N (1)+N (2)+1=4+2+1=7.

[0257]

Next, in the processing of step S136, at first obtain variable T as N (1) or in other words be 4.

[0258]

Therefore, in the judgement of step S138, T * 10000/M is calculated as 4 * 10000/7=5714.286.

[0259]

In other words, when the pseudo random number W that generates in step S134 was 0 to 5713, the selection nodal information Xg that sends from node device 202c was chosen as selection nodal information Xg by node device 202a.

[0260]

On the other hand, when pseudo random number be 5714 or when bigger, node device 202a proceeds to the processing of step S140.

[0261]

Next, node device 202 adds the value " k " (step S140) that is used for representing node device 202 to 1, and obtains new variable T (step S141).In other words, in example shown in Figure 19, node device 202a obtains variable T=N (1)+N (2)=4+2=6.In addition, node device 202 turns back to the processing (step S142) of step S137, and repeating step S137 to S142, up to value " k " surpass be connected the number of the node device Su in the positive lower floor till, and when " k " end loop during above number Su.

[0262]

When to step S142, can not select one to select nodal information X at step S137 the time, the selection nodal information X (step S143) that node device 202 selections itself are created.

[0263]

In addition, when obtaining the selection nodal information X that in step S139 or step S143, selects, total number M that node device 202 obtains equipment is used as total number information N, and create with them then and reply object information Ans (step S144), and end process.

[0264]

In other words, in example shown in Figure 19, in first processing that circulates that is used for selecting above-mentioned selection nodal information, when the pseudo random number W that generates among the step S134 was 0 to 5713, node device 202a selected to be used as selecting nodal information from the selection nodal information Xg that node device 202c sends.When being not this situation, then in second processing that circulates that is used for selecting nodal information, T * 10000/M is calculated as (4+2) * 10000/7=8571.429, therefore when the pseudo random number W that generates in step S134 was 5714 to 8570, node device 202a selected to be used as selecting nodal information from the selection nodal information Xd that node device 202d sends.

[0265]

When being not this situation (in other words, when pseudo random number W is 8571 or bigger), then node device 202a is chosen in the selection nodal information Xa that itself creates among the step S143.In other words, node device 202a selection is greater than the probability of selection by the node device 202d of the less node device 202d selection of total number information N by the probability of the node device 202g of the bigger node device 202c selection of total number information N.That is to say, selection is 5713/1000=4/7 from the probability of the selection nodal information Xg that node device 202c sends, and selecting the probability of the selection nodal information Xd that sends from node device 202d be (8570-5713)/10000=2/7, and to select the probability by the selection nodal information Xa of node device 202a establishment be (9999-8570)/10000=1/7.As a result, it is possible selecting the structure of every selection nodal information Xg of being generated by all node devices 202 that add the tree network system equably.

[0266]

Embodiment by the invention described above, structure makes the node device 202 from be connected positive lower floor receive selection nodal information X and is used as replying object information Ans, and new answer object information Ans be create according to this answer object information Ans and send it to the node device 202 (or broadcasting equipment 201) that is connected in the positive upper strata then, therefore can reduce in the upstream communication path (for example certain router IP) that load (visit) concentrates on network and in the upstream node equipment 202, and so can improve the operating efficiency of system.

[0267]

In addition, when the broadcasting equipment 201 that proposes such as inquiries such as requests requires request, and when broadcasting equipment 201 selects one to select nodal information X in the every selection nodal information X that sends from downstream node equipment 202, structure makes when node device 202 each node device reception from be connected positive lower floor is created new answer object information Ans as the every selection nodal information X that replys object information Ans and according to this answer object information Ans, each node device 202 is selected nodal information X, create then and comprise the answer object information Ans of selectable selection nodal information X and send it to the node device 202 that is connected in the positive upper strata, therefore 201 of broadcasting equipments need select one to select nodal information X in every selection nodal information X that the node device from be connected positive lower floor 202 (being node device 202a and 202b in example shown in Figure 19) sends, and therefore can carry out the selection of selecting nodal information more efficiently.

[0268]

In addition, when from selecting one to select nodal information X among selection nodal information X that is connected the node device 202 the positive lower floor and the selection nodal information X that creates by node device 202c itself every, and when sending it to the node device 202 that is connected in the positive upper strata then, be used for representing that what selection nodal information X to have selected total number information N of the selection nodal information X of this selection also to be included in from replys object information Ans, therefore structure makes when selecting one to select nodal information X among the every selection nodal information X that comprises among the every answer object information Ans that sends at the node device from be connected positive lower floor 202, can when selecting one to select nodal information X, consider its weight, so that select every selection nodal information X equably by 202 establishments of all node devices.

[0269]

The selection nodal information of being carried out by broadcasting equipment 201 in step S108 is selected to handle with above-mentioned and is selected processing identical by the performed selection nodal information of node device 202, therefore when nodal information X was selected in broadcasting equipment 2 one of last selection, structure made and can select from every selection nodal information that all node devices that add the tree network S of system are created equably.

[0270]

In the above-described embodiments, out-of-date time T o among the step S107 is identical with out-of-date time T o among the step S120, but, the present invention is not limited to this, and can wait according to the performance of the connection status of node device (ISP and DSL etc.) and equipment and suitably change setting.

[0271]

In addition, in the above-described embodiments, request receives data and is sent to node device 202 as multimedia messages, but the present invention is not limited to this, and can only its signal that serves as a mark be sent.In other words, request receive beginning data Rb to start with mark be sent out, begin to ask the reception imported with expression, and request receives end data Re and is sent out as end mark, be used to represent the reception of ending request input.In this case, the node device 202 that receives these signals can be reset and output is used for the image and the audio frequency of the reception of expression beginning (perhaps finishing) request input.

[0272]

And, in the above-described embodiments, node device 202g to 202p in the lowest order level is told about the request of correctly carrying out, but, when the user does not press when for example asking button, do not generate the selection nodal information X that is used for this node device itself (perhaps generating the information that is used for expression " also not selecting "), and send to be used for being illustrated in and reply object information Ans and do not have nodal information and total number information N the information of selecting for " 0 ".

[0273]

In addition, the content that the request that sends from broadcasting equipment 201 receives beginning data Rb comprises zero * test, and its structure makes when being used to represent that the correct correct answer information of answering is sent out with request reception beginning data Rb, the control unit 221 of node device 202 plays the effect of judgment means, and determine whether be complementary with the correct answer of testting from the input of each node device, and when the correct answer of selection nodal information X that creates according to this input and test did not match, the selection nodal information X of establishment was removed as the alternative in selecting to handle at above-mentioned selection nodal information.By doing like this, the present invention can be applied to the participatory test of beholder.Under the situation that input is not complementary with the correct answer of this test, structure can not created any selection nodal information X.

[0274]

In addition, in the above-described embodiments, between 0 to 9999, generate pseudo random number, but, the number of all node devices 202 in adding the tree network S of system is bigger when several (for example, 10,000 or bigger), then, can use random number in a big way in order to reduce the rounding error when the result who makes probability calculation becomes integer.

[0275]

In addition, in the above-described embodiments, select one to select nodal information X among the every selection nodal information X that in the answer object information Ans that each node device from be connected positive lower floor 202 sends, comprises, and send it to node device 202 or be connected broadcasting equipment 201 in the positive upper strata.But, the present invention is not limited to this, and structure can send the selection nodal information X that specifies the number item.In this case, in the processing of above-mentioned steps S134, only generated the random number of specifying number, and each pseudo random number W execution selection nodal information is selected circulation (step S137 is to step S143), with selection nodal information X that selects appointment number item and the selection nodal information X that is sent in this appointment number that comprises among the answer object information Ans then.

Claims (40)

1. A distribution device for publishing distribution information and as a part of a tree distribution system, wherein the tree distribution system is composed of the distribution device and a plurality of receiving devices for receiving the distribution information, wherein The devices are connected in a tree form via a plurality of communication paths, and the distribution devices form the highest hierarchy, and the plurality of reception devices form a plurality of hierarchies so that the distribution information distributed from the distribution devices sequentially from Said receiving device in a higher hierarchy communicates to said receiving device in a lower hierarchy, the issuing device comprising: First release information issuing means, configured to issue first release information, so that the first release information including query messages is issued to the receiving devices on multiple communication paths; receiving device selection means for selecting one of the receiving devices connected to the issuing device and to which the following second distribution information is to be distributed, the second distribution information including information for collecting information generated by each of the receiving devices A collection message of a response message corresponding to the query message; Second distribution information distribution means, configured to distribute the second distribution information to the selected one of the receiving devices, so as to sequentially transmit the second distribution information via one of the plurality of communication paths; and collected information receiving means for receiving collected information transmitted from one of the receiving devices on one of the communication paths sequentially passed along the second distribution information and including The collection message, wherein the response message attached by the receiving device on the one communication path is added to the collection message. 2. The publishing device of claim 1, wherein The receiving device selection means selects one of the receiving devices from a plurality of receiving devices connected to the distribution device with a probability proportional to the number of receiving devices in a hierarchy below each of the receiving devices. one of. 3. A publishing device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein The collection information is transmitted from the reception device located in the lowest hierarchy of the one communication path. 4. The publishing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising message collection condition judging means for determining whether a specified message collection condition has been satisfied according to the collection information, wherein When said message collection condition judging means has determined that said message collection condition has not yet been met, said receiving device selecting means selects one of said receiving devices connected to said publishing device; and The second release information release means releases the second release information to the selected one of the receiving devices. 5. The publishing device of claim 4, wherein The receiving device selection means selects the receiving device from a plurality of the receiving devices connected to the issuing device with a probability proportional to the number of the receiving devices in a hierarchy below each of the receiving devices. one of the devices. 6. A publishing device as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein The receiving device selecting means selects a receiving device different from the previously selected receiving device. 7. A distribution device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein The second release information includes information indicating a specified message collection condition; and When the message collection condition is satisfied, the collection information is transmitted from the receiving device on the communication path. 8. A publishing device as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein The message collection condition includes a condition for specifying the number of the response messages to be collected, a condition for specifying the number of valid replies included in the response message, and a condition for specifying the second issue At least one of the conditions of the number of times the information is to be delivered. 9. A publishing device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The response messages from the receiving devices on the one communication path and ID information unique to each of the receiving devices are associated and attached to the collection message. 10. A receiving device as part of a tree-type distribution system, wherein the tree-type distribution system is composed of the distribution device for publishing distribution information and a plurality of receiving devices for receiving the distribution information wherein the devices are connected in a tree form via a plurality of communication paths, and the issuing devices form the highest hierarchy, and the plurality of receiving devices form a plurality of hierarchies, so that the distribution issued from the distribution device Information is passed sequentially from said receiving devices in a higher level to said receiving devices in a lower level, the receiving devices comprising: First distribution information receiving means, configured to receive first distribution information including a query message from the distribution device or the receiving device located in the upper layer; response message generating means for generating a response message for the query message; second distribution information receiving means for receiving second distribution information including a collection message for collecting the response message from the distribution device or the reception device located in the upper layer; response message adding means for adding the generated response message to the collection message included in the second release information; lower level judging means for determining whether there is another connected said receiving device in a lower level; and Collected information sending means for sending the collected information including the collected message to which the response message has been added to the issuing device. 11. A receiving device as part of a tree-type distribution system, wherein the tree-type distribution system is composed of the distribution device for publishing distribution information and a plurality of receiving devices for receiving the distribution information wherein the devices are connected in a tree form via a plurality of communication paths, and the issuing devices form the highest hierarchy, and the plurality of receiving devices form a plurality of hierarchies, so that the distribution issued from the distribution device Information is passed sequentially from said receiving devices in a higher level to said receiving devices in a lower level, the receiving devices comprising: First distribution information receiving means, configured to receive first distribution information including a query message from the distribution device or the receiving device located in the upper layer; response message generating means for generating a response message for the query message; Second distribution information receiving means for receiving, from the distribution device or the reception device in the upper layer, a second message including a collection message for collecting the response message and information indicating a specified message collection condition. release news; response message adding means for adding the generated response message to the collection message included in the second release information; message collection condition judging means for determining whether the specified message collection condition included in the second release information is satisfied; and Collected information sending means for directly sending the collected information including the collected message to which the response message has been added to the issuing device when the message collection condition judging means determines that the message collection condition is satisfied . 12. The receiving device of claim 11, further comprising: lower level judging means for determining whether there is another connected receiving device in a lower level when said message collection condition judging means determines that said message collection condition is not satisfied; and collected information sending means for sending, to the distribution station, the collected information including the collected message to which the response message has been added when the lower-level judging means determines that another of the receiving devices is not connected. equipment. 13. The receiving device of claim 10 or 12, further comprising: receiving device selecting means for selecting the collection message to which the response message has been added which is connected, when said lower hierarchy judging means determines that there is another connected reception apparatus in a lower hierarchy. one of said receiving devices in a hierarchy below said receiving device to which information is to be sent; and Collected information transmitting means, configured to transmit the collected information to the selected receiving device. 14. The receiving device of claim 13 , wherein The receiving device selection means selects from a plurality of the receiving devices in the layers connected below the receiving device with a probability proportional to the number of the receiving devices in the layer below each of the receiving devices. Select one of the receiving devices from the receiving devices. 15. A receiving device as claimed in claim 13 or 14, wherein Said receiving device selecting means selects another said receiving device which is not the previously selected receiving device. 16. A receiving device as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein The message collection condition includes a condition for specifying the number of the response messages to be collected, a condition for specifying the number of valid replies included in the response message, and a condition for specifying the second issue At least one of the conditions of the number of times the information is to be delivered. 17. A publishing device as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein The response message adding means associates the generated response message with ID information unique to the receiving device, and adds them to the collection message included in the second distribution information. 18. An information processing method, a distributing device for distributing distributing information and being a part of a tree distributing system, wherein the tree distributing system is composed of the distributing device and a plurality of receivers for receiving the distributing information devices, wherein the devices are connected in a tree form via a plurality of communication paths, and the issuing device forms the highest hierarchy, and the plurality of receiving devices forms a plurality of hierarchies, so that all The release information is sequentially transferred from the receiving device in the higher layer to the receiving device in the lower layer, and the information processing method includes the following steps: distributing first distribution information so that said first distribution information including a query message is distributed to said receiving devices on a plurality of communication paths; selecting one of the receiving devices connected to the publishing device and to which the following second publishing information is to be distributed, the second publishing information including information for collecting information generated by each of the receiving devices related to the query message. The collection message of the corresponding response message; distributing the second distribution information to the selected one of the receiving devices, so as to sequentially transmit the second distribution information via one of the plurality of communication paths; receiving collection information transmitted from one of the receiving devices on one of the communication paths sequentially passed along the second distribution information and including the collection message, wherein the collection information is transmitted by The response message attached by the receiving device on the one communication path is added to the collection message. 19. An information processing method for a receiving device as a part of a tree-type distribution system, wherein the tree-type distribution system is composed of the distribution device for distributing distribution information and a plurality of devices for receiving the distribution information said receiving devices, wherein said devices are connected in a tree form via a plurality of communication paths, and said issuing devices form the highest hierarchy, and said plurality of receiving devices form a plurality of hierarchies, so that from said issuing devices The released information is sequentially transferred from the receiving device in the higher layer to the receiving device in the lower layer, and the information processing method includes the following steps: receiving first distribution information including a query message from the distribution device or the reception device in an upper layer; generating a response message for said query message; receiving second distribution information including a collection message for collecting the response message from the distribution device or the reception device in an upper hierarchy; adding said generated response message to a collection message included in said second release information; determining whether there is another connected said receiving device in the lower hierarchy; and The collection information including the collection message to which the response message has been added is sent to the distribution device. 20. An information processing method for a receiving device as a part of a tree-type distribution system, wherein the tree-type distribution system is composed of the distribution device for distributing distribution information and a plurality of devices for receiving the distribution information said receiving devices, wherein said devices are connected in a tree form via a plurality of communication paths, and said issuing devices form the highest hierarchy, and said plurality of receiving devices form a plurality of hierarchies, so that from said issuing devices The released information is sequentially transferred from the receiving device in the higher layer to the receiving device in the lower layer, and the information processing method includes the following steps: receiving first distribution information including a query message from the distribution device or the reception device in an upper layer; generating a response message for said query message; receiving second distribution information including a collection message for collecting the response message and information indicating a specified message collection condition from the distribution device or the reception device in the upper hierarchy; adding said generated response message to a collection message included in said second release information; determining whether the designated message collection condition included in the second posting information is satisfied; and When the message collection condition judging means determines that the message collection condition is satisfied, the collection information including the collection message to which the response message has been added is directly sent to the distribution device. 21. An information processing program for causing a computer in a distribution device for distributing distribution information and as a part of a tree distribution system composed of the distribution device and for receiving The distribution information is composed of a plurality of receiving devices, wherein the devices are connected in a tree form via a plurality of communication paths, and the distribution device forms the highest level, and the plurality of receiving devices forms a plurality of levels, so that The release information issued from the issuing device is sequentially transferred from the receiving device in a higher layer to the receiving device in a lower layer, and the functions are: First release information issuing means, configured to issue first release information, so that the first release information including query messages is issued to the receiving devices on multiple communication paths; receiving device selection means for selecting one of the receiving devices connected to the issuing device and to which the following second distribution information is to be distributed, the second distribution information including information for collecting information generated by each of the receiving devices A collection message of a response message corresponding to the query message; Second distribution information distribution means, configured to distribute the second distribution information to the selected one of the receiving devices, so as to sequentially transmit the second distribution information via one of the plurality of communication paths; and collected information receiving means for receiving collected information transmitted from one of the receiving devices on one of the communication paths sequentially passed along the second distribution information and including The collection message, wherein the response message attached by the receiving device on the one communication path is added to the collection message. 22. An information processing program for causing a computer in a receiving device as a part of a tree distribution system composed of said distribution device for distributing distribution information and for composed of a plurality of receiving devices that receive the distribution information, wherein the devices are connected in a tree form via a plurality of communication paths, and the distribution devices form the highest hierarchy, and the plurality of receiving devices form a plurality of levels, so that the publishing information issued from the publishing device is sequentially transferred from the receiving device in a higher level to the receiving device in a lower level, and the functions are: First distribution information receiving means, configured to receive first distribution information including a query message from the distribution device or the receiving device located in the upper layer; response message generating means for generating a response message for the query message; second distribution information receiving means for receiving second distribution information including a collection message for collecting the response message from the distribution device or the reception device located in the upper layer; response message adding means for adding the generated response message to the collection message included in the second release information; lower level judging means for determining whether there is another connected said receiving device in a lower level; and Collected information sending means for sending the collected information including the collected message to which the response message has been added to the issuing device. 23. An information processing program for causing a computer in a receiving device as a part of a tree distribution system composed of said distribution device for distributing distribution information and for composed of a plurality of receiving devices that receive the distribution information, wherein the devices are connected in a tree form via a plurality of communication paths, and the distribution devices form the highest hierarchy, and the plurality of receiving devices form a plurality of levels, so that the publishing information issued from the publishing device is sequentially transferred from the receiving device in a higher level to the receiving device in a lower level, and the functions are: First distribution information receiving means, configured to receive first distribution information including a query message from the distribution device or the receiving device located in the upper layer; response message generating means for generating a response message for the query message; Second distribution information receiving means for receiving, from the distribution device or the reception device in the upper layer, a second message including a collection message for collecting the response message and information indicating a specified message collection condition. release news; response message adding means for adding the generated response message to the collection message included in the second release information; message collection condition judging means for determining whether the specified message collection condition included in the second release information is satisfied; and Collected information sending means for directly sending the collected information including the collected message to which the response message has been added to the issuing device when the message collection condition judging means determines that the message collection condition is satisfied . 24. A recording medium on which the information processing program according to any one of claims 21 to 23 is recorded so as to be readable by a computer. 25. A tree distribution system comprising a distribution device for distributing distribution information and a plurality of reception devices for receiving the distribution information, wherein the devices are connected in a tree form via a plurality of communication paths, and the The distribution devices form the highest hierarchy, and the plurality of reception devices form a plurality of hierarchies so that the distribution information distributed from the distribution devices is sequentially passed from the reception devices in higher hierarchies to those in lower hierarchies. said receiving device, wherein The publishing equipment includes: First release information issuing means, configured to issue first release information, so that the first release information including query messages is issued to the receiving devices on multiple communication paths; Receiving device selection means for selecting one of the receiving devices connected to the publishing device and to which the following second publishing information is to be distributed, the second publishing information including information for collecting information corresponding to the query message collection of response messages; and second release information release means, configured to release the second release information to the selected one receiving device; and The receiving equipment includes: first distribution information receiving means for receiving first distribution information from the distribution device or the reception device located in an upper layer; response message generating means for generating a response message for the query message; second distribution information receiving means for receiving second distribution information from the distribution device or the reception device located in an upper layer; response message adding means for adding the generated response message to the collection message included in the second release information; lower level judging means for determining whether there is another connected said receiving device in a lower level; and Collected information sending/delivering means for sending the collected information including the collected message to which the response message has been added to the collected information when the lower level judging means has determined that the other receiving device is not connected. the distribution device, and delivers the collection information including the collection message to which the response message has been added to one of the reception devices connected in the lower hierarchy. 26. A tree distribution system comprising a distribution device for distributing distribution information and a plurality of reception devices for receiving the distribution information, wherein the devices are connected in a tree form via a plurality of communication paths, and the The distribution devices form the highest hierarchy, and the plurality of reception devices form a plurality of hierarchies so that the distribution information distributed from the distribution devices is sequentially passed from the reception devices in higher hierarchies to those in lower hierarchies. said receiving device, wherein The publishing equipment includes: First release information issuing means, configured to issue first release information, so that the first release information including query messages is issued to the receiving devices on multiple communication paths; Receiving device selection means for selecting one of the receiving devices connected to the publishing device and to which the following second publishing information is to be distributed, the second publishing information including information for collecting information corresponding to the query message a collection message of the response message and information indicating a specified message collection condition; and second release information release means, configured to release the second release information to the selected one receiving device; and The receiving equipment includes: first distribution information receiving means for receiving first distribution information from the distribution device or the reception device located in an upper layer; response message generating means for generating a response message for the query message; second distribution information receiving means for receiving the second distribution information from the distribution device or the reception device located in an upper layer; response message adding means for adding the generated response message to the collection message included in the second release information; message collection condition judging means for determining whether the specified message collection condition included in the second release information is satisfied; and Collected information sending/delivering means for sending, to the distribution, when the message collecting condition judging means determines that the message collecting condition is satisfied, the collecting information including the collecting message to which the response message has been added device, and when the message collection condition judging means determines that the message collection condition is not satisfied, transfers the collection information including the collection message to which the response message has been added to the connected lower layer in one of the receiving devices. 27. A processing device in a tree-type network system, the tree-type network system comprising a query device for sending query information for requesting sending of reply result information; and a plurality of processing devices for receiving the query information, wherein the querying device is connected to the plurality of processing devices via a communication path in a tree such that the querying device is the highest and the plurality of processing devices forms a plurality of hierarchies, and the information sent from the querying device The query information is passed successively from the processing devices in the upper hierarchy to the processing devices in the lower hierarchy, wherein one of the processing devices comprises: inquiry information receiving means for receiving said inquiry information transmitted from said other said processing device connected in a high-level hierarchy of said one processing device or from said inquiry device; query information delivery means for delivering said received query information to one or more of said other processing devices connected in a lower hierarchy of said one processing device; reply result information receiving means for receiving said reply result information including reply information for said query information and transmitted from at least one or more of said other processing devices connected in said lower hierarchy; Reply information creating means for causing said one processing device to create its own said reply result information for said query information; Reply result information creating means, used to make said one processing device create its own reply result information according to the reply result information received by said reply result information receiving means and the reply information created by said reply information creating means; and Reply result information replying means for sending the created reply result information to the other processing device or all other processing devices connected in the high-level hierarchy that are the source of the query information received by the query information receiving means query device. 28. The processing device of claim 27, further comprising: selecting means for selecting a specified number of items of the reply information from the reply information included in the reply result information received by the reply result information receiving means and the reply information created by the reply information creating means ,in The reply result information creating means creates the reply result information including the selected specified number of items of the reply information. 29. The processing device of claim 28, further comprising: total number information obtaining means for obtaining the sum of the total number of the other processing devices connected in the lower hierarchy plus "1" as the total number information; and total number information transmitting means for transmitting the total number information to the other said processing device or the other said processing device connected in said high-order hierarchy as a transmission source of the inquiry information received by said inquiry information receiving means The above query equipment; The selection means selects reply information of the specified number of items based on the total number information sent from the other processing devices connected in the lower hierarchy. 30. The processing device of claim 29, wherein When the reply result information returning means sends the reply result information, the total number information sending means sends the total number information. 31. The processing facility of any one of claims 27 to 30, further comprising: end information receiving means for receiving end information giving an input reception instruction for ending answer information for said inquiry information from other said processing means connected in said upper hierarchy or said inquiry means; and Answer information input receiving means for receiving input of the answer information from when the inquiry information receiving means receives the inquiry information until the end information receiving means receives the end information; wherein The reply information creating means creates the reply information based on the input of the answer information received by the answer information input receiving means. 32. The processing facility of any one of claims 27 to 31 , further comprising: waiting time setting means for setting a reception waiting time for receiving said reply result information from said other processing device connected in said lower hierarchy; wherein The reply result information creating means creates reply result information for the one processing device itself based on the reply result information received by the reply result information receiving means within the reception waiting time. 33. The processing device of any one of claims 28 to 32, further comprising: judging means for determining whether the reply information created by the reply information creating means corresponds to the query information received by the query information receiving means; wherein When it is determined that the reply information does not correspond to the query information, the selection means removes the reply information created by the reply information creating means as the selection object, and only selects from the reply received by the reply result information receiving means The reply information of the specified number of items is selected from the reply information included in the result information. 34. A tree-type network system, comprising: a query device, configured to send query information for requesting sending of reply result information; and a plurality of processing devices, configured to receive the query information, wherein the query device transmits query information via multiple A communication path is connected to the plurality of processing devices in a tree shape so that the query device is the highest, and the plurality of processing devices form a plurality of levels, and the query information sent from the query device is successively transmitted from said processing device in a higher level hierarchy passes to said processing device in a lower level hierarchy, wherein One of the processing facilities includes: inquiry information receiving means for receiving said inquiry information transmitted from said other said processing device connected in a high-level hierarchy of said one processing device or from said inquiry device; query information transfer means for transferring said received query information to said other processing devices connected in a lower hierarchy of said one processing device; reply result information receiving means for receiving the reply result information including reply information for the inquiry information and sent from the other processing device connected in the lower hierarchy; Reply information creating means for causing said one processing device to create its own said reply result information for said query information; Reply result information creating means, used to make said one processing device create its own reply result information according to the reply result information received by said reply result information receiving means and the reply information created by said reply information creating means; and Reply result information replying means for sending the created reply result information to the other processing device or all other processing devices connected in the high-level hierarchy that are the source of the query information received by the query information receiving means The above query equipment; The inquiry equipment includes: query information sending means for sending the query information to at least one or more of the processing devices connected in a lower hierarchy below the query device; and Reply result information means for receiving the reply result information transmitted from at least one or more of the processing devices connected in the lower hierarchy. 35. The tree network system as claimed in claim 34, wherein said processing device further comprises: selecting means for selecting a specified number of items of the reply information from the reply information included in the reply result information received by the reply result information receiving means and the reply information created by the reply information creating means ; and where The reply result information creating means creates the reply result information including the selected specified number of items of the reply information. 36. The tree network system as claimed in claim 35, wherein The processing facility further includes: total number information obtaining means for obtaining the sum of the total number of the other processing devices connected in the lower hierarchy plus "1" as the total number information; and total number information transmitting means for transmitting the total number information to the other said processing device or the other said processing device connected in said high-order hierarchy as a transmission source of the inquiry information received by said inquiry information receiving means the querying device; and where The selection means selects reply information of the specified number of items based on the total number information sent from the other processing devices connected in the lower hierarchy. 37. A processing program for a computer included in a processing device in a tree-type network system, the tree-type network system comprising: a query device for sending query information for requesting transmission of reply result information; and a plurality of processing a device for receiving said query information, wherein said query device is connected in a tree form with said plurality of processing devices via a plurality of communication paths such that said query device is the highest and said plurality of processing devices form a plurality of hierarchies, and the inquiry information sent from the inquiry apparatus is continuously transferred from the processing apparatus in the upper hierarchy to the processing apparatus in the lower hierarchy, wherein the program makes the computer of the processing apparatus Play the following role: inquiry information receiving means for receiving said inquiry information transmitted from said other said processing device connected in a high-level hierarchy of said one processing device or from said inquiry device; query information delivery means for delivering said received query information to one or more of said other processing devices connected in a lower hierarchy of said one processing device; reply result information receiving means for receiving said reply result information including reply information for said query information and transmitted from at least one or more of said other processing devices connected in said lower hierarchy; Reply information creating means for causing said one processing device to create its own said reply result information for said query information; Reply result information creating means, used to make said one processing device create its own reply result information according to the reply result information received by said reply result information receiving means and the reply information created by said reply information creating means; and Reply result information replying means for sending the created reply result information to the other processing device or all other processing devices connected in the high-level hierarchy that are the source of the query information received by the query information receiving means query device. 38. The processing program as claimed in claim 37, further causing said computer to function as follows: Selecting means for selecting the reply of a specified number of items from the reply information included in the reply result information received by the reply result information receiving means and the reply information created by the reply result information creating means information; and make The reply result information creating means creates the reply result information including the selected specified number of items of the reply information. 39. The processing program of claim 38, further causing the computer to: total number information obtaining means for obtaining the sum of the total number of the other processing devices connected in the lower hierarchy plus "1" as the total number information; and total number information transmitting means for transmitting the total number information to the other said processing device or the other said processing device connected in said high-order hierarchy as a transmission source of the inquiry information received by said inquiry information receiving means query device described above; and use The selection means selects reply information of the specified number of items based on the total number information sent from the other processing devices connected in the lower hierarchy. 40. A recording medium on which the processing program according to any one of claims 37 to 39 is recorded so that it can be read by the computer.

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