JP2002132810A - Method for extending url function, and method for accessing resource on network by using extended url function - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method which extends a URL function and can access resources on the Internet by using the extended URL function. SOLUTION: This method comprises a step for extracting a parameter from URL data consisting of a scheme name, a host name, and the parameter, a step for actuating a specific CGI by using URL parts including the location of the CGI and sending the extracted parameter to the CGI, and a step for encoding and combining the sent parameter with the URL parts including the scheme name and location of the specific CGI program and setting the sent parameter as a dummy argument to be sent to the specific CGI program.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method for accessing resources on a network, and more particularly, to a method for extending a URL function and accessing resources on the network using the extended URL function.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art On the Internet, a large number of files or applications (CGI (Comm.
mon Gateway Interface) program is provided. In order to use these resources, it is necessary to access a WWW server via a network and specify a requested resource, or specify a resource and pass parameters processed by the resource.

For example, when requesting a specific file, it is necessary to specify the host name and file name of the WWW server storing the file and access the WWW server.

For this reason, URL (Uniform R)
A method of receiving a specified HTML file from a specified WWW server by describing a scheme name, a host name, and a file name in an "resource Locator" is known.

There is also known a method of selecting a link destination set in a form created in HTML, calling another form, and repeating this to reach a target file.

On the other hand, for example, in order to use an application, it is necessary to specify a host name and an application name in which the application is stored, and pass parameters to be processed to the application.

For this reason, there is known a method of inputting data into a data input field in a form transmitted from a WWW server and passing parameters to an application. For example, when a search engine application is used, a search engine homepage is called, and data for which a search is requested is entered in a field set in a form of the homepage. Parameters are passed.

[0008]

However, in the above, first, the format of the URL is RFC (Request).
sts For Comments) and must follow the RFC format.

However, the format of the URL is defined in detail and strictly. For example, services provided for each scheme are different, so that specialized knowledge is required to understand them.

A path name is defined in a one-to-one relationship with a resource existing on a server. Therefore, U
If there is any mistake in the description of the RL, it is absolutely impossible to access the target resource.

[0011] In addition, since the resources in the Internet are enormous, it is necessary to identify each resource.
The location entered in the URL consists of a number of characters. In addition, it is difficult to input all the characters accurately because a unique word is used.

As described above, it is very complicated and difficult for a user to describe a URL and use resources on the Internet.

[0013] First, it is difficult to reproduce a link. In the case of a resource that is reached by performing a plurality of links, the order of the links is not allowed to be incorrect. In many cases, a plurality of link destinations are set in one form. In this case, one correct link destination must be selected.

More specifically, the more the link is repeated, and the more the link destination set in each form is increased, the more it is established that the target resource is reached (1).
/ P) decreases (P increases).

Second, a lot of time is wasted in reaching the target resource. Many links frequently open the linked form. The time required for each form to be opened is not small. As a result, the more links the more time is wasted.

First, time is wasted opening the form. You must open a form as an input screen to enter data to be passed to the application.

However, when the network is congested or the like, the user often waits a long time to open the first input screen. Thus, time is wasted opening the form.

Second, it is not easy for a user to use the input screen. In many cases, on each input screen, the type of data to be input for each field (eg, characters to be searched) is determined. Also, the input format (eg, half-width) is determined.

The user must input data according to a format determined on each input screen.

In addition, since the format of each input screen is arbitrarily designed, each time a different application is used, the unknown format must be understood and followed. As a result, it is not easy for users to use.

Third, there is a method of inputting data to be passed to an application into a URL. However, in this method, the location of the application to be used must be entered accurately. In addition, it is required to code the data and follow a predetermined description formula.

This method requires specialized knowledge and is very difficult for a user to use.

On the other hand, from the aspect of transmitting the location, there is a problem that it is difficult to transmit the location of the resource to a third party.

In the advanced information society, it is required to obtain and utilize useful information in a timely manner. On the other hand, there are almost infinite resources on the Internet, and a great deal of information is overflowing.

In a situation where there is a huge number of resources, it is extremely difficult to find a resource that is useful at a particular point in time. Thus, the location of useful resources is information that is extremely valuable to third parties. Thus, it is required to communicate the location of useful resources to a third party.

However, as described above, a location is composed of a special word and many characters. It is very difficult to accurately communicate such a location to a third party. In addition, as described above, it is also difficult for a third party who has been notified of the location to accurately enter the URL.

Further, in the method of acquiring resources by a link, it is necessary for a third party to accurately reproduce the link. However, when linking is performed a plurality of times, the linking procedure involves an enormous amount of information, which is inconvenient for both the transmitter and the receiver. Also, it is not easy for the recipient to reproduce the link.

An object of the present invention is to extend a URL function and enable access to resources on the Internet using the extended URL function.

[0029]

Accordingly, in the present invention, U
All or part of the data input to the RL is treated as a parameter, and a predetermined resource can be accessed based on the data input to the URL.

Specifically, a predetermined resource is set based on the data input in the URL, and if there is a parameter to be passed to the predetermined resource in the input data, this parameter is set. Was passed to the resource.

More specifically, a URL part including a location of a predetermined resource is used and combined with a parameter in the URL.

In the above case, the data of a predetermined member in the received URL is used as an identifier, and a URL for selecting or using a predetermined resource is determined based on the identifier.
L parts are now selected.

According to the method of the present invention, a predetermined member is extracted from members constituting URL data, and the extracted member is combined with a URL part including a location of a predetermined resource. Setting as a dummy argument passed to the predetermined resource.

Further, a step of extracting a predetermined member from members constituting the URL data, a step of selecting a URL part corresponding to the identifier based on a predetermined identifier included in the URL data, Combining the selected member with the selected URL part and setting the member as a dummy argument passed to the resource corresponding to the identifier.

In the above case, the method of the present invention further comprises the step of initiating a step of extracting a predetermined member from members constituting the URL data when the file specified by the URL data does not exist. Including.

In these cases, the method of the present invention comprises:
After the step of extracting a predetermined member from the members constituting the URL data, the method further includes the step of encoding the extracted member.

Further, in these methods, the UR
The L data includes a scheme name, a host name, and a parameter, and the extracted member is the parameter.

More specifically, the method of the present invention comprises the steps of extracting the parameters from URL data consisting of a scheme name, a host name, and parameters, and using a URL part including a predetermined CGI location. Then, the CGI is started, and the extracted parameters are stored in the CG.
Passing the passed parameters to the predetermined CGI program by encoding the passed parameters and combining them with URL parts including the scheme name and location of a predetermined CGI program. And setting it as a dummy argument.

When there is no file specified by URL data composed of a scheme name, a host name, and a path name, extracting the path name as a parameter; and encoding the extracted parameter. Combined with a URL part containing the scheme name and location of a given resource,
Setting as a dummy argument passed to the predetermined resource.

Further, the invention of the above-mentioned method is also realized as a program for causing a computer to realize a predetermined function or a recording medium on which the program is recorded.

The recording medium includes, for example, a hard disk (HD), a DVD-RAM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, and a memory such as a RAM and a ROM.

In this specification, the term “means” does not simply mean a physical means, but also includes a case where the function of the means is realized by software. Further, the function of one unit may be realized by two or more physical units, or the function of two or more units may be realized by one physical unit.

According to the above configuration, a URL suitable for a predetermined format (for example, RFC) can be generated by inputting data in the URL based on an arbitrarily set format.

Thus, the structure of the data input to the URL can be simplified characters. In addition, the URL input format and configuration can be simplified without being restricted by difficult formats and formats.

In addition, by inputting such simple characters, resources on the Internet can be used.

Furthermore, a predetermined URL part combined with a predetermined identifier can be changed, and different resources can be accessed only by changing the combination. Also, a plurality of types of URL parts can be combined with one identifier, and a plurality of resources can be used by inputting one piece of data into the URL.

Further, by arbitrarily setting the URL part of the scheme name, the user can use the service classified for each protocol without being aware of the difference between the protocols.

In addition, the above method is executed in a server configuring a network, and the URL data is data received by a server program via the network.

By doing so, when the specifications of resources in the network (eg, CGI program) change, each client can access the changed resources only by changing the URL creation specification in the server. can do.

Here, the URL (Uniform Res)
"Source Locator" means a format that points to any resource in the network, including the Internet.

In particular, in this specification, the URL is
It means a device that has a function of transmitting an instruction to access a specific resource existing at the location specified by the description in the RL using a specific protocol.

For example, a request is made to transmit a specific file existing in a specific directory on a specific host. It also requests a specific application existing in a specific directory on a specific host to process the parameters described in the URL.

The resource means a resource that can be used via a network. Specifically, it includes data such as HTML files stored in a server, programs and functions such as CGI scripts, and hardware itself (eg, computers, home appliances, and electronic musical instruments) that can be operated via a network. It is.

The location means a place where the resource exists, and corresponds to a server name, a port number, a path name (folder name, file name) and the like.

The members constituting the URL data are UR
This is data of a predetermined unit constituting L. For example, this unit is a scheme name separated by ":" or "/",
User name and password, connection server name, port number,
Path name etc. correspond.

The URL parts are members constituting URL data and are stored in advance. Specifically, it is data set as contents such as a scheme name, a host name, a port number, a file name, and a description expression.

[0057]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram for executing a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

This system comprises a client 1 and a WWW server 2 connected to each other via a network, and the WWW server 2 comprises a server program 3 and a CGI
4 and a CGI program 5.

Next, a method according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

First, a URL is input and transmitted from the client 1, and the WWW server 2 receives it (step S101).

The server program 3 analyzes the character string in the URL and the method used (step S1).
02).

The server program 3 changes the CGI file to be started by changing the URL character string, and
Extract from the RL (step S103). In particular,
CGI file name and description expression (top.cgi? Nam
e =), and the character string after the host name is extracted as a parameter.

The server program 4 activates the CGI 4 (top.cgi) based on the changed URL.

The CGI 4 receives the extracted parameters, encodes the extracted parameters, and executes the CGI program 5
With a URL part that contains the location or / and scheme name of

For example, the scheme name (http) is changed to another scheme name (telnet). Host name (re
la-net) is changed to another host name (yahoo).

The CGI 4 activates the CGI program 5 in the WWW server 2 and passes parameters to the CGI program 5 (Step S104).

The activated CGI program 5 performs a predetermined process based on the parameters, and transmits an execution result to the client 1 (step S105).

As described above, according to the present invention, the URL input by the client can be changed to a URL including the location or / and scheme name of an arbitrary CGI program. Also, the parameters input by the client can be passed as parameters to any CGI program.

The user can start a predetermined CGI program simply by inputting the scheme name, the host name of the server providing this method, and the parameters into the URL of the client. It is possible to simplify the configuration of the data that is not required.

Further, by using the present invention, the scheme name can be changed to a scheme suitable for the resource to be accessed, so that the user does not need to input a scheme name suitable for the requested service.

From the user's point of view, various services can be used without being aware of differences in services defined for each scheme.

Further, since the parameters passed to the CGI program can be encoded in the CGI, the user can input the parameters in the URL using a natural language.

Since there is no need to open an input screen provided with fields, it is possible to avoid wasting time and to use resources simply and quickly.

Since resources can be accessed only by inputting a character string in a URL, resources can be used even when the display screen of the client is small and the entire input screen cannot be displayed.

As described above, the function of the URL can be extended, and the resource on the network can be accessed using the function of the extended URL.

[0076]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. In the following embodiment, the server program is a general WWW server program that supports the HTTP protocol. A program that is set to execute.

Specifically, the WWW server program is:
The web page "http://japache.in
foscience. co. jp / japanese_
1_3 / manual / LICENSE "or" http
p // Japanche. infoscience. c
o. jp / japache "
he HTTP Server "can be used.

In the following embodiments, the CGI is a CGI that is always executed by the server program, and refers to a file in the server managed by the server program. The CGI acquires the parameters from the URL changed by the server program, and according to the conditions such as the parameters, the CGI
Start the program.

The CGI program is a CGI program that supports at least the GET method, and includes a general search engine, a bulletin board, and a sendmail.
I service is applicable. Note that the CGI program may exist on another server.

Hereinafter, a first preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a system for realizing the present invention.

This system comprises a client 11 and WWW
Server 12, server program 13, CGI 14, and CG
And an I program 15. The client 11 and the WWW server 12 are connected via a network and communicate with each other.

The client 11 is composed of a computer such as a personal computer and has a WWW browser (for example, Internet Explorer of Microsoft Corporation, Netscape Communicator of America Online Corporation, etc.).

The client 11 has a display device such as a display and an input device such as a keyboard and a touch panel.

The WWW server 12 is composed of a computer such as a personal computer and a workstation, and has a server program for providing various services in accordance with requests from a WWW browser in the client 11.

The server program 13, CGI 14, and C
The GI program 15 is a program included in the WWW server.

The CGI program 15 is an application program, which is started directly or indirectly by the CGI 14, performs a predetermined process, and returns a processing result directly or indirectly to the client 11.

Next, the changing means included in the server program 13 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a changing unit.

The changing means 20 is executed on a processing device such as a CPU. The changing unit 20 performs data communication between the storage devices 21 and 22 and the displayed storage device.

The storage device 21 includes a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, and the like, and stores URL parts 23.

Specifically, the scheme name "http
p, ftp, phone, fax, etc., “msna.co.jp” as the host name, “top.cgi” as the file name, and “? name =” as the descriptive expression.
Etc. are stored.

The storage device 22 includes a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, and the like, and temporarily stores all or a part of the input URL data.

The changing means 20 receives the input URL data as a parameter and stores it in the storage device 22.
Then, a predetermined URL part is read from the storage device 21 and inserted into the URL or replaced with a part of the URL.
Thus, the URL is changed to execute the CGI 14, and the URL is executed.

Next, the CGI 14 will be described. CG
I14 is executed by the server program 13, and outputs an execution result to the client in the HTML format. In this output, there is a META tag in which URL parts including the scheme name, location, and description expression of the CGI program 15 are set.

This META tag is, for example, “yaho
When starting the search service of “o”, “<META
HTTP-EQUIV = “refresh” CONT
ENT = "0; URL = http: // search.
yahoo. co. jp / bin / search? p =
Δ △△ ”>”.

By describing this tag, when the output of the CGI 14 is received by the client, the software such as a browser automatically opens the character string after “URL =” after 0 seconds, so that the CGI program 15 is executed Will do.

The CGI 14 started by the server program 13 acquires the parameters in the changed URL from the environment variables and sets them as the parameters in the META tag.

The CGI 14 URL-encodes the parameter in the changed URL and sets the parameter as a parameter in the META tag.

[0098] More specifically, U
RL-encoded parameters are set.

Thus, the CGI 14 activates the predetermined CGI program 15 and activates the activated CGI program 15.
Outputs HTML format data to which parameters can be passed.

(Operation of First Embodiment) Next, the operation of the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

First, the URL “ht” is transmitted to the client 11.
tp: // msna. co. jp / ams ”is input and transmitted to the WWW server 12.

When the received URL is input to the change means 20, the change means 20 receives the URL as a parameter and stores it in the storage device 22. And "http: //
/ Msna. co. jp / ams ”, ams is acquired as a temporary variable, and stored in the storage device 22.

Next, the changing means 20 sends the URL parts ("top.cgi" and "? Name") from the storage device 21.
= ”) And insert it after the host name in the URL,
Then, the variable ams is united, and the changed URL “ht”
tp: // msna. co. jp / top. cgi? n
ame = ams "is generated.

Here, a pseudo code expressing the above processing is presented. FIG. 5 is a pseudo code showing the processing of the changing means in the server program.

Next, the server program 13 analyzes the URL. And the method is GET, and U
Recognize the existence of “?” In the RL, NAME and VALU
Recognize the parameter consisting of E.

The server program 13 uses the environment variable “'Q
UENAME_STRING 'is set to "name = ams". Thus, top. “QUERY_STRING name = ams” is given as an environment variable of cgi.

The server program searches for “top.cgi” that is the CGI 14, starts it, and passes parameters.
Specifically, the CGI 14 acquires a parameter from an environment variable.

The CGI 14 converts the received parameter into a CG
It is combined with a URL part including the location of the I program 15 and used as a dummy argument to be passed to the CGI program 15. Thus, a META tag that starts the CGI program 15 and passes the parameter “ams” to the CGI program 15 is generated.

Specifically, the META included in the HTML
The tag is “<META HTTP-EQUIV =“ re
fresh "CONTENT ="0; URL = htt "
p // search. yahoo. co. jp / bi
n / search? p = ams ">".

[0110] CGI 14 is an H containing a META tag.
The TML format data is transmitted to the client 11. The CGI program 15 is automatically executed in response to a request from the client, and the output result is passed to the client.

In the above example, the server program 13 starts the CGI 14 by the GET method, and
I14 recognizes that it is a GET method and acquires a parameter from an environment variable.

However, the present invention is not limited to this. The server program 13 can also start the CGI 14 using the POST method. In this case, the CGI 14 acquires the parameters by the standard input.

The above operation will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the flow of data.

First, U is sent from the client to the WWW server.
RL is transmitted (in the figure). The server program 13 in the WWW server 12 changes the URL and changes the URL.
Is analyzed, and the CGI 14 is executed, and the execution result of the HTML format is transmitted to the client 11 as the output result of the CGI 14 (in the figure). From the client 11 that has received the execution result of the HTML format, MET
A request is automatically transmitted to the CGI program 15 specified by the URL in the A tag (in the figure). The CGI program 15 is activated to perform the processing, the processing result is transmitted to the client, and the service is provided (in the figure).

(Second Embodiment) As a second embodiment, U
A process for providing URLs of different resources based on the identifier input in the RL will be described.

In the second embodiment, in addition to the first embodiment, the CGI 14 includes a selection means for selecting a URL part based on the identifier input in the URL.

The selecting means analyzes the parameters received from the server program 13 and, based on a predetermined identifier,
Select the corresponding URL part.

Here, an embodiment in which a search is performed using "yahoo" which is a search engine service will be described.

In this embodiment, identifiers “com, rec” are set, and these identifiers are assigned search category divisions. For example, com
A computer category is assigned, and hobbies and sports categories are assigned to rec.

A space is inserted between the identifier and the search character string, the space before the space is set as the identifier, and the space after the space is set as the search character string.

(Operation of Second Embodiment) Client 11
In the URL of “http: //210.225.81.
When 6 / com Windows is input, the change unit 20 acquires “com Windows” as a temporary variable, inserts “study.cgi?” And changes the URL (“http: //210.225. 81.6
/ Study. cgi? com Windows ").

The server program 13 sends the changed URL
, "Com Windows" is set as an environment variable, and "study.cgi", which is the CGI 14, is started.

Here, the processing of the selection means will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the processing of the selection means.

The means for selecting “study.cgi” obtains “com Windows” from the environment variables and, based on the “space” between the identifier and the search character, creates the identifier “com” and the search character “Windows”. (Step S201).

Then, the selecting means determines whether or not the identifier matches a predetermined condition (step S202). In the present embodiment, since “com” satisfies the condition of the computer category, the category of the UR set to
An L part is selected (step S203), and a URL is generated by substituting “Windows” as a search character.

In other words, the scheme name, host name, file name,
The category is set on the computer using the URL part of the category, and the category is combined with the search character.

The generated URL is returned to the client 11, from which the "yahoo" search engine is started.

As another example, the URL of the client 11
Within “http://210.225.81.6/re
When "c Soccer" is input, the selecting means selects "r
Based on “ec”, it is determined that the condition of the hobby and the sports category is met (step S204), the hobby and the sports category are set in the URL (step S205), and the search character “Soccer” is combined to generate the URL. .

When an identifier is not entered in the URL of the client 11 (for example, “http: //210.2
25.81.6 / information ”), the selection unit generates a URL by combining the information“ information ”as a search character without setting a category as a normal search (step S206).

A pseudo code expressing the above processing is presented. FIG. 8 is a pseudo code showing the processing of the selection means.

With such a configuration, the URL
Different URLs can be selected and different resources can be accessed based on the identifier entered in the.

In the above embodiment, the selecting means selects a category based on a predetermined identifier. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

For example, it is possible to select a CGI program to be provided (eg, search, electronic mail, translation, telephone call, quote, etc.) based on a predetermined identifier.

Also, based on a predetermined identifier, a protocol (eg, http, telnet, ftp, smtp
Etc.) can also be selected.

Further, although the CGI 14 is configured to have the selecting means, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the server program 13 may be configured to have a second selection unit.

In this case, the second selecting means in the server program 13 selects the URL part 23 based on a predetermined identifier.

More specifically, the identifier “s” is set as the search service, the identifier “m” is set as the e-mail service, and the URL parts 23 (“search”) corresponding to each identifier are set.
ch. cgi ”and“ mail.cgi ”are stored in the storage device 21.

When the server program 13 receives the URL (“http
p: //210.225.81.6/s Socce
r "), the second selection means selects the identifier" s "
Select "search.cgi" based on the URL and incorporate it into the URL ("http: //210.22"
5.81.6 / search. cgi? Socce
r ").

Then, the server program 13 executes the CGI
Start "search.cgi" which is 14
rch. cgi starts a predetermined search engine.

As described above, the user can select various resources simply by inputting an identifier having a simple configuration on the URL, and can easily use the resources.

In the second embodiment, "com" and "Windows" input in the URL are a combination of an identifier and a parameter.

As another example, these two character strings can be used as a plurality of parameters.

For example, when using the CGI program of the fortune-telling service that inputs the age and gender and outputs the processing result, the URL (“http: //210.225.8”) is used.
1.6 / 30 male ”),“ 30 ”and“ ma ”
"le" can be extracted as a parameter and passed to the CGI program.

In this manner, the fields divided into a plurality of places for inputting a plurality of types of parameters can be combined into one URL, so that the labor for searching the fields to be inputted or the labor for matching the format of each field can be reduced. Can be removed.

(Third Embodiment) As a third embodiment, a process incorporating file transmission, which is a function of a normal WWW server program, will be described.

The WWW server 12 executes the server program 1
3 is provided. This recognition means activates the CGI 14 when the file requested by the received URL does not exist in the WWW server 12.

[0147] The CGI 14 acquires the character string after the host name in the URL from the environment variable ("REDIRECT_URL"), sets it as a parameter of the URL part in the META tag, and transmits it to the client 11.

(Operation of Third Embodiment) The operation of the third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the third embodiment.

First, “h” is entered in the URL of the client 11.
ttp: // msna. co. jp / ams ”, and the WWW server 12 receives the URL data (step S301).

The WWW server 12 that has received this URL
Server program 13 of the WWW server 12 (msn
a. co. jp) is determined whether or not a file (“ams”) exists (step S302). If the file exists, the file is transmitted to the client 11, and the process ends.

If the file does not exist, the server program 13 sends the status code 404 (Not Fo).
und) is output. The recognizing unit activates the CGI 14 in response to the status code 404 (step S303).

The above processing performed by the recognizing means can be realized by setting ".htaccess" which is a setting file of the server program. For example, the pseudo code “ErrorDocument 404 / t”
op. cgi ”is set.

When the CGI 14 is activated, the CGI 14
Is derived from the environment variable ("REDIRECT_URL")
The character string "/ ams" after the host name is acquired (step S304).

The obtained character string “/ ams” is set as a parameter part of a predetermined URL part, and a URL for executing the CGI program 15 is generated (step S).
305), and transmits the URL to the client 11 (step S306).

Specifically, when using the search engine of “yahoo”, “/ ams” is set as a search character (parameter), and the URL (“http: // sease” is set.
rch. yahoo. co. jp / bin / search
h? p = ams "is generated.

A pseudo code expressing the processing of the CGI 14 will be presented. FIG. 10 shows a CG using a META tag.
This is a pseudo code representing the processing of I14.

By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to extend the new URL function and realize the function of the present invention while maintaining the function of the conventional WWW server.

Thus, the convenience for the user can be improved.

In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the present invention is realized using CGI. However,
The present invention is not limited to this. For example, "Java" can be used instead of CGI.

[0160] The HTML format data sent from the CGI to the client includes the META tag, but the present invention is not limited to this.
This can also be realized by using a “Java script” or the like instead of the META tag.

The transmission of the HTML format data to the client is not limited to the method of automatically starting the CGI program.
A link to the CGI program may be set, and the user may click on the link to activate the CGI program.

Further, the CGI is transmitted to the client in HTML format data for the purpose of activating the CGI program, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the CGI may directly activate the CGI program.

Further, the present invention has been described by the configuration including the server program and the CGI. However, the means and functions of the server program and the CGI can be realized by one piece of software.
And it may be realized by a plurality of programs.

Further, the server program may have a CGI function and a CGI program function.

The invention has been described on the premise of a client / server system. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a configuration may be employed in which a client (eg, a WWW browser) has the means and functions provided by the present invention.

The client used by the user is WWW
It is not limited to a browser, and any device having a function of performing communication based on the HTTP protocol may be used. This includes mobile phones, game machines, mobile terminals, and the like.

(Fourth Embodiment) As a fourth embodiment, a preferred embodiment using a port number will be described. The present invention can be realized by using the port number of the URL part 23.

More specifically, the server program 13 has set a port number 80 as a default value,
It is assumed that another port number in the same host is set to execute the GI program 15.

The changing means 20 of the server program 13 or the CGI 14 can activate the CGI program 15 by changing the port number in the URL.

For example, the CGI 14 uses the URL “http
p /// msna. co. jp / top. cgi? na
add port number 1024 to “me = ams”
L "http://msna.co.jp:1024/
top. cgi? name = ams ”is generated.

Thus, it is possible to start an arbitrary CGI program in the server.

(Fifth Embodiment) As a fifth embodiment, an example of transmitting an e-mail using the present invention will be described.

First, the identifier for displaying the electronic mail service is set to “m”. Then, a predetermined character is assigned to the mail address of the recipient (for example, miya).
shita ＠ ……. co. jp is assigned to “miy”) is registered in the WWW server.

When the user enters “http: // m” in the URL,
sna. co. jp / m miy how are you? And send.

The server program 13 which has received this receives Um with the parameter "m miy
Change the RL, activate CGI 14, and pass this parameter.

The CGI 14 divides the received parameters into fixed characters such as half-width spaces. Here, a character string of "m", "miy", and "kengen kaiga?"

The changing means 20 replaces "miy" with the registered mail address "miyashita @ ...".
…. co. jp ”.

The selection means of the CGI 14 selects the URL part “smtp” of the protocol based on the identifier “m”.

[0179] Then, "How are you?" Is set as a parameter of the text of the e-mail.

The CGI 14 executes the CGI program 15 by adding necessary parameters to the CGI program 15 using the META tag or the like from the above processing. here,
The CGI program 15 is a CGI program that sends mail.

As described above, it is possible to input a simple value (“miy”) for identifying an e-mail recipient and an e-mail document into the URL.

In this manner, the user can save the labor and time for calling up the electronic mail form or re-entering the host name.

Further, an e-mail service (eg, sendma) can be performed simply by setting the identifier “m” to a single host name.
il), you can use a single hostname,
Can provide multiple services.

(Sixth Embodiment) As a sixth embodiment, an example in which map information is searched will be described with reference to the drawings. Here, FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are diagrams showing a configuration example of a client screen when searching for map information.

When the user searches for the map information of "Tokyo", as shown in FIG. 11, the user uses a WWW browser and stores "http: //map.n" in the URL.
e. jp / Tokyo ", the map information provided from the CGI program that provides the map search is displayed on the screen.

As shown in FIG. 12, when a mobile phone is used, it is only necessary to input "http://map.ne.jp/Tokyo" in the URL as in the WWW browser.

The services provided by the present invention are very broad. It is not limited to applications such as search engines and search for map information.

(Other Examples) As another example, URL
A telephone number (eg, “http://msna.co.
jp / 81-3-1234-5678 ”), a URL (eg,“ phon ”) consisting of a telephone number as a parameter and a parameter dedicated to telephone service.
e: / 81/8 / 31234--5678 "," fax:
// 81/3 / 1234-5678 ").

Thus, for example, a network telephone service using a URL can be used from a portable telephone.

Further, home appliances can be controlled by using the present invention. For example, a location is set for each home appliance (a function for controlling the home appliance), and a control command is input as a parameter in the URL. Specifically, the URL "http://msna.co.jp/refrigerator O"
By inputting "N" or the like, it is possible to control the temperature setting of the refrigerator or the on / off switching of the power switch.

As a result, interfaces such as a liquid crystal display and input buttons, which have to be provided for each piece of hardware, can be omitted.

As described above, the services that can be provided by the present invention are not limited. Therefore, as the services available on the Internet become wider and better, the functions of the URL can be further expanded.

(Network Server) The method according to the present invention can be realized in a server that communicates with a client via a network without changing the existing functions of the client.

As a result, there is no need to incorporate software having the functions of the present invention into the client. Thus, each OS (Operating System)
Alternatively, there is no need to develop software according to the network environment. Also, since a great deal of time and effort for installation can be eliminated, the user can easily use the present invention.

A device (eg, i-mode mobile phone, game machine) for which software is difficult to be installed later can be used as a client, and all devices (eg, personal computer, mobile phone, The present invention can be equally used from portable terminals, game machines, and the like.

In addition, even when the specification such as the URL or parameter of the CGI service is changed, it can be easily coped with only by changing the server setting. When the service is used, the advertisement is transmitted to the client by passing through the same server. It can also be displayed.

As described above, generalization of the functions of the present invention and simplification of service provision based on the present invention can be realized.

[0198]

As described above, according to the present invention,
An arbitrary character string can be input in the URL, and the resource can be used by a character string that is easy for the user to use, such as a natural language.

Further, not only fields in the HTML form but also URLs can be used as direct fields, so that it is possible to easily access resources on the Internet and improve user convenience.

Even if a character string entered by the user contains an erroneous description, accurate resources are provided by judging from a portion other than the erroneous description, or a plurality of resources related to the character string are presented. And a flexible response is possible.

In addition, the character string input in the URL is
It can be in a simple style and configuration, which can be replaced with the formal URL of the resource, so that the simplified location can be communicated to third parties.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram for executing a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a system for realizing the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a changing unit.

FIG. 5 is a pseudo code showing a process of a changing unit in a server program.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a data flow.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a process of a selection unit.

FIG. 8 is a pseudo code showing a process of a selection unit.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the third embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a pseudo code showing a process of the CGI 14 using the META tag.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a client screen when searching for map information.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a client screen when a search for map information is performed.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1,11 client 2,12 WWW server 3,13 server program 4,14 CGI 5,15 CGI program

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 5B075 KK07 NK02 NK44 PP22 PQ02 PQ10 PQ42 UU40 5B082 EA07 GC04

Claims (13)

[Claims] 1. A step of extracting a predetermined member from members constituting URL data; combining the extracted member with a URL part including a location of a predetermined resource; Setting as a dummy argument passed to the resource. 2. A method comprising: extracting a predetermined member from members constituting URL data; and, based on a predetermined identifier included in the URL data,
Selecting a URL part corresponding to the identifier; combining the extracted member with the selected URL part; and setting the member as a dummy argument passed to the resource corresponding to the identifier. How to access the containing resource. 3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising a step of starting a step of extracting a predetermined member from members constituting the URL data when a file specified by the URL data does not exist. How to access your resources. 4. A member constituting the URL data,
The method for accessing a resource according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising, after the step of extracting a predetermined member, a step of encoding the extracted member. 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the URL data includes a scheme name, a host name, and a parameter, and the extracted member is the parameter. 6. A step of extracting the parameter from URL data composed of a scheme name, a host name, and a parameter; activating the CGI by using a URL part including a location of a predetermined CGI; Passing the passed parameters to the CGI, wherein the CGI encodes the passed parameters and combines them with URL parts including a scheme name and a location of a predetermined CGI program, and converts the passed parameters to the predetermined Setting as a dummy argument to be passed to the CGI program. 7. When there is no file specified by URL data composed of a scheme name, a host name, and a path name, extracting the path name as a parameter, and encoding the extracted parameter. Setting the parameter as a dummy argument passed to the predetermined resource, in combination with a URL part including a scheme name and a location of the predetermined resource. 8. The method for accessing a resource according to claim 1, wherein said URL data is URL data received by a server program. 9. A process for extracting a predetermined member from members constituting URL data, encoding the extracted member, combining with a URL part including a scheme name and a location of a predetermined resource, and A program for causing a computer to execute a process of setting as a dummy argument passed to the predetermined resource. 10. A process for extracting a predetermined member from members constituting URL data, and based on a predetermined identifier included in the URL data.
A process of selecting a URL part corresponding to the identifier; encoding the extracted member; combining the extracted member with the selected URL part; and setting the member as a dummy argument passed to a resource corresponding to the identifier And a computer-readable recording medium on which a program for causing a computer to execute the processing is recorded. 11. A process for extracting the parameter from URL data composed of a scheme name, a host name, and a parameter; activating the CGI using a URL part including a location of a predetermined CGI; Passing the passed parameter to the CGI, the CGI encodes the passed parameter, combines it with a URL part including a scheme name and a location of a predetermined CGI program, and converts the passed parameter into the predetermined And a computer-readable recording medium on which a program for causing a computer to execute a process of setting as a dummy argument passed to the CGI program is recorded. 12. When there is no file specified by URL data composed of a scheme name, a host name, and a path name, a process of extracting the path name as a parameter, and encoding the extracted parameter. Computer-readable recording a program for causing a computer to perform a process of setting the parameter as a dummy argument passed to the predetermined resource in combination with a URL part including a scheme name and a location of the predetermined resource Recording medium. 13. The URL data according to claim 9, wherein said URL data is URL data received by a server program.
A computer-readable recording medium according to any one of the above.