WO2008007735A1 - Information search system - Google Patents

Abstract

A client PC transmits a path formed by a profile name and a user identifier and outputs a search request to a data access device. The data access device searches a profile specification information management device and the like by using the profile name and acquires the profile specification information. Next, the data access device searches the data access device and an external file information management device by using the path and the profile specification information so as to finally acquire the profile information. The data access device transmits the acquired profile information to the client PC.

Description

 Specification

 Information retrieval system

 Technical field

 [0001] The present invention relates to an information search system and method for searching for information.

 Background art

 [0002] For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose systems used for data retrieval.

 However, the data to be searched is not always stored and managed in a single device, but is stored and managed in a plurality of devices.

 For example, Non-Patent Document 1 discloses a system that handles data distributed to a plurality of devices. Patent Document 1: JP-A-2005-115514

 Patent Document 2: JP-A-2005-122246

 Non-Patent Document 1: 3GPP TS22.240 v6.5.0: Service requirement for the 3GPP generic user profile (GUP)

 Disclosure of the invention

 Problems to be solved by the invention

[0003] The present invention has been made from the above background so that data can be distributed and stored in a plurality of devices, and the distributed and managed data can be efficiently searched. An object is to provide an improved information retrieval system and method.

 Means for solving the problem

[0004] For the above purpose, the search system that is effective in the present invention includes one or more first nodes (client PCs) and one or more second nodes (data access devices). A search system for searching for target information (profile file information) stored in the one or more second nodes (data access devices) and serving as a search target. Each node (client PC) has a target information (profile) stored in the one or more second nodes (data access devices) with respect to the one or more second nodes (data access devices). Specification information for identifying specification information (profile specification information) indicating the storage location A search for the target information (profile information) is requested by specifying an identifier (profile name), and each of the one or more second nodes (data access devices) has the specification information identifier (profile name). And first specification information storage means for storing the specification information (profile specification information) in association with each other, and each of the target information (profile information) is stored by the specification information (profile specification information). Purpose information storage means for storing the location and specification information (profile specification) identified by the specified specification information identifier (profile name) in response to a search request from the first node (client PC). Information) and the storage location indicated by the specification information (profile specification information) obtained as a result of the search. Was searching for object information (profile information), reads out the searched object information (profile information), and a data transmission means for transmitting to said first node (client PC).

 [0005] Preferably, second specification information storage means for storing the specification information identifier (profile name) and the specification information (profile specification information) in association with each other, and the one or more second nodes A second search means for searching and returning the specification information (profile specification information) identified by the specified specification information identifier (profile name) in response to a search request from the (data access device). 3. A search system further comprising three nodes (profile specification management device), wherein each of the one or more second nodes (data access devices) is configured to specify the first search means Unless the specification information (profile specification information) identified by the specification information identifier (profile name) is stored in the first specification information storage means, the third node (Profile specification management device) is requested to search for the specified specification information (profile specification information), and the data transmission means responds to the search request and the third node (profile specification device). The stored purpose information (profile information) is read from the second node (data access device) indicated by the storage location of the specification information (profile specification information) returned from the specification management device. Send to the node (client PC).

Preferably, storage location information (data source, data access device information) indicating a storage location of the purpose information (profile information) associated with the purpose information identifier (profile name, user identifier) is included. , The storage location information (data source, data archive Access device information) includes a function (key filter) that generates a value in an arbitrary range from a part of the purpose information identifier (user identifier), the generated value, and the second node (data access device). Storage location information included in the specification information (profile specification information) obtained as a result of the search by the second search means includes the association table (key hash table) that associates the value for identifying And indicated by the correspondence table.

 [0007] Preferably, a part (user identifier) of the purpose information identifier is substituted into the function (key filter), and the association table is associated with the value generated as a result of the substitution. A value (data access device ID) for identifying a second node (data access device) is acquired, and the second node (data access device) associated with the acquired identification value (data access device ID) As shown.

 [0008] Preferably, the purpose information identifier (profile name, user identifier) and the purpose information are

 (Profile information) and a fourth node (external profile information management device) that stores the data in association with each other, wherein each of the one or more second nodes (data access devices) includes the data In response to the search request, the transmitting means stores the memory included in the specification information (profile specification information) returned from the second node (data access device) or the third node (profile specification management device). When the storage location indicated by the location information indicates the fourth node (external profile information management device), the stored fourth location (external profile information management device) The target information (profile information) is read and transmitted to the first node (client PC), and the second node (data access device). Storage location indicated by the storage location information included in the specification information (profile specification information) returned from the third node (profile specification management device) is the second node (data access device). And the fourth node (external profile information management device), the stored information from the indicated second node (data access device) and fourth node (external profile information management device). The target information (profile information) is read and transmitted to the first node (client PC).

[0009] Preferably, each of the one or more first nodes (client PCs) specifies the specification information identifier (profile name) and the purpose information (profile information) to be stored, When the storage of the designated purpose information (profile information) is requested, in the second node (data access device), the data transmitting means sends the designated purpose information (profile information) to the Stored in all nodes indicated by the storage location indicated by the storage location information included in the specification information (profile specification information) obtained as a result of the search, each of the one or more first nodes (client PCs) When the specification information identifier (profile name) is specified and the deletion of the purpose information (profile information) is requested, the data transmitting means in the second node (data access device) The issued purpose information (profile information) is indicated by the storage location information included in the specification information (profile specification information) obtained as a result of the search. To remove from all the nodes indicated by the storage position.

 [0010] Preferably, the specification information (profile specification information) further includes execution service information, and in the second node (data access device), the data transmission means includes the content of the execution service information. Based on this, the execution of the service is requested before and after the retrieved purpose information (profile information) is read and the read purpose information (profile information) is stored and deleted.

[0011] Preferably, a specification information identifier (profile name) for identifying specification information (profile specification information) stored in the third node (profile specification management device) is designated, and the specification information (profile name) is specified. A search system further including one or more fifth nodes (management PCs) each requesting a search by a third search means for profile specification information), wherein the third node (profile specification management device) is And means for transmitting the specification information (profile specification information) obtained by the third search means to a fifth node (management PC), wherein the fifth node (management PC) Means for reading the read specification information (profile specification information), and the second node with respect to the table (key hash table) included in the read specification information (profile specification information) Means for adding a value for identifying a data access device) and a value associated therewith, and for the table (key hash table) included in the read specification information (profile specification information), the second Means for deleting a value for identifying a node (data access device) and a value associated therewith, and the table (key hash) included in the read specification information (profile specification information). Means for changing a combination of a value for identifying the second node (data access device) and a value associated with the second node (data access device), and the added, deleted, and changed table ( A key hash table) to the third node, and the third node (profile specification management device) has a means for storing the table.

In addition, the search method that is effective in the present invention includes one or more first nodes (client PCs), one or more second nodes (data access devices), and a third node (profile specification management device). Each of the first nodes (client PCs) is stored in the one or more second nodes (data access devices), and is stored in accordance with a purpose information identifier (profile name, user identifier). Each of the second nodes (data access devices) is searched for the purpose information (profile information) to be identified by the second node (data access device) and searched for the purpose information (profile information). Stored in the second node (data access device) or the third node (profile specification management device) and by the specification information identifier (profile name). The specification information (profile specification information) is a search method for searching for specification information (profile specification information), wherein the specification information (profile specification information) is associated with the purpose information identifier (profile name, user identifier). Storage location information (data source, data access device information) indicating the storage location of the profile information), and the purpose information (profile information) is associated with the specification information (profile specification information) and stored in the memory. It is stored in each node indicated by location information (data source, data access device information), and the storage location information (data source, data access device information) is arbitrarily selected from a part of the purpose information identifier (user identifier). A function that generates a range value (key filter), the generated value, and the second node (data access device). ) And a correspondence table (key hash table) for associating values, and the search method uses the specification information identifier (profile name) specified by the first node (client PC). A first search step in which the second node (data access device) searches for the specification information (profile specification information) associated with the specified specification information identifier (profile name); Based on the specified specification information (profile specification information), the second node (data access device) is searched for the target information (profile information) from the node indicated by the storage location information. A second search step.

In addition, the search program that is effective in the present invention includes one or more first nodes (client PC), one or more second nodes (data access devices) each including a computer, and one or more first nodes. In the system including the three nodes (profile specification information management device), the second node (data access device) has the power S and the first node (client PC) has the one or more second nodes. Is requested to search for the purpose information (profile information) stored in the node (data access device) and identified by the purpose information identifier (profile name, user identifier). The requested second node (data access device) is the force S, the second node (data access device) or the third node ( The specification information (profile specification information) stored in the profile specification management device) and identified by the specification information identifier (profile name) is searched. Based on the searched specification information (profile specification information), A search program for searching for the target information (profile information) identified by the target information identifier (profile name, user identifier) from the second node (data access device). The specification information) includes storage location information (data source, data access device information) indicating a storage location of the objective information (profile information) associated with the purpose information identifier (profile name, user identifier), The purpose information (profile information) is associated with the specification information (profile specification information). Stored in the nodes indicated by the storage location information (data source, data access device information), and the storage location information (data source, data access device information) is a part of the purpose information identifier (user identifier). A function (key filter) that generates a value in an arbitrary range, and a correspondence table (key hash table) that associates the generated value with a value that identifies the second node (data access device). The specification information identifier (profile name) is specified, and the second node (data access device) and the specification information (profile specification information) associated with the specified specification information identifier (profile name) are included. On the basis of the searched specification information (profile specification information) and the second node (data access). Device), from the node indicated by the storage location information, searches the object information (profile information) The second search step is executed by the computer of the second node (data access device).

 The invention's effect

 [0014] According to the information search system and the method thereof that are effective in the present invention, data is distributed and stored and managed in a plurality of devices, and data stored and managed in this way is efficiently searched. Ability to rub with S.

 Brief Description of Drawings

 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a network system 1 to which the information search method is applied to the present invention.

 2 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the client PC 2, data access device 3, management PC 4, profile specification information management device 12, external profile information management device 14, policy server 16 and service execution device 18 shown in FIG. It is.

 3 is a diagram illustrating profile information that the data access device 3 shown in FIG. 1 reads from the data access device 3 and the external profile information management device 14 shown in FIG. 1 in response to a request from the client PC 2. .

 4 is a diagram illustrating profile specification information stored and managed in the data access device 3 and the profile specification information management device 12 shown in FIG. 1.

 FIG. 5 is a diagram exemplifying profile information stored and managed in the data access device 3 shown in FIG. 1.

 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of a profile information operation program 30 executed on the data access device 3 shown in FIG.

 7 is a diagram showing a configuration of a profile information search unit 320 shown in FIG.

 8 is a diagram showing processing of the data access device specifying unit 326 shown in FIG.

 FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a configuration of the profile information storage unit shown in FIG.

 10 is a diagram showing a configuration of the profile information deleting unit 38 shown in FIG.

 FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration of a profile specification information confirmation program 40 executed on the data access device 3 shown in FIG. 1.

[FIG. 12] Profile specifications that operate on the profile specification information management device 12 shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of a similar information operation program 42.

13] is a diagram showing a configuration of a profile information search program 44 operating on the external profile information management device 14 shown in FIG.

 FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of a profile specification information operation program 46 operating on the management PC 4 shown in FIG. 1.

 FIG. 15A is a first communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S10) of the network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which a profile information search request is sent from the client PC 2 to the data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

 FIG. 15B is a first communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S10) of the network system 1 shown in FIG. 1. A profile information search request is sent from the client PC 2 to the data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

 FIG. 15C is a first communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S10) of the network system 1 shown in FIG. 1. A profile information search request is sent from the client PC 2 to the data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

 FIG. 15D is a first communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S 10) of the network system 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 15D is a profile information search request from the client PC 2 to the data access device 3 Shows the processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started.

 FIG. 15E is a first communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S10) of network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which a profile information search request is sent from client PC 2 to data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

FIG. 16] is a sequence diagram illustrating operations performed simultaneously when the data access device 3 shown in FIG. 15A searches for profile specification information for the profile specification information management device 12. [FIG. 17] The data access device 3 shown in FIG. 15A obtains the profile specification information (FIG. 4) from the profile specification information cache DB 302 of the data access device 3 or the profile specification information DB 430 of the profile specification information management device 12. It is a sequence diagram which illustrates the process to search.

FIG. 18 is a diagram exemplifying the association between the storage location of profile information and the type of profile information.

 FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram illustrating operations performed simultaneously when data access device 3 retrieves profile information from another data access device 3 in response to a request from client PC 2 shown in FIG. 15A. is there.

 FIG. 20 is a sequence diagram illustrating a process in which data access device 3 shown in FIG. 15A searches for profile information for another data access device 3;

 FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram illustrating operations performed simultaneously when data access device 3 searches external profile information management device 14 for profile information in response to a request from client PC 2 shown in FIG. 15B. It is.

 FIG. 22 is a sequence diagram illustrating a process in which data access device 3 shown in FIG. 15B searches for profile information with respect to external profile information management device 14.

FIG. 23A is a second communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S20) of network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which a profile information storage request is sent from client PC 2 to data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

 FIG. 23B is a second communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S20) of the network system 1 shown in FIG. 1. A request for storing profile information is sent from the client PC 2 to the data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

FIG. 23C is a second communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S20) of network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which a profile information storage request is sent from client PC 2 to data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown. FIG. 23D is a second communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S20) of network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which a profile information storage request is sent from client PC 2 to data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

 FIG. 23E is a second communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S20) of network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which a profile information storage request is sent from client PC 2 to data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

 FIG. 24A is a third communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S30) of the network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which a profile information deletion request is sent from the client PC 2 to the data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

 FIG. 24B is a third communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S30) of network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which a profile information deletion request is sent from client PC 2 to data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

 FIG. 24C is a third communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S30) of network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which a profile information deletion request is sent from client PC 2 to data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

 FIG. 24D is a third communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S30) of network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which a profile information deletion request is sent from client PC 2 to data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

FIG. 24E is a third communication sequence diagram illustrating the overall operation (S30) of network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which a profile information deletion request is sent from client PC 2 to data access device 3. The processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown. Explanation of symbols

 1 network

 12 Profile specification information management device

14 External profile information management device

16 Policy server

 18 Service execution device

 2 Client PC

 20 body

 200 CPU

 202 memory

 22 I / O devices

 24 Communication equipment

 26 Storage device

 28 Storage media

 3 Data access device

 30 Profile information operation program

300 Communication processor

 302 Profile specification information cache DB

304 Profile information cache DB

306 Profile information DB

 32 Profile information search section

 320 UI

 322 Request Interpreter

 324 Profile specification information search part

 326 Data access device identification part

 328 Key filter value calculator

 330 Data access device ID acquisition unit

332 Data access device ID judgment unit 334 Access control unit

 336 Service execution control unit

 338 Profanol Information Search Department

 340 Node specific part

 342 Data source reading unit

 344 Profanol Information Search Department

 346 Profanol information storage

 36 Profano f information storage

 360 Prerequisite checking section

 362 Profanol information storage

 38 Profano f information deletion part

 380 Prerequisite checking section

 382 Profanol information deletion part

 4 Management PC

 40 Profano f specifications information confirmation program

400 Profanol specification information confirmation section

42 Profano specifications specifications operation program

420 Request interpreter

 422 Profanol specification information search section

424 Profanol specification information storage

426 Profanol Specification Information Update Department

428 Profanol specification information deletion part

430 Profanol specification information DB

44 Profano f information search program

440 Profanor Information Search Department

46 PROFANOL specification information operation program BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. [0018] [Network system 1]

 FIG. 1 is a diagram exemplifying a configuration of a network system 1 to which the information search method is applied to the present invention.

As shown in Fig. 1, the network system 1 is a client computer (client PC) 2;! To 2— n (n is simply an integer of 1 or more, and not all n indicate the same number) , Data access device 3— ;! to 3—n, management client computer (management PC) 4—1 to 4— _n , profile specification information management device 12— ;! to 12—n (Figure 1 shows the profile) 1), external profile information management device 14 1 to 14 n, policy server 16—;! To 16 n and service execution device 18—;! To 18—n are connected to the LAN. , Configured to communicate with each other via a network 10 such as a WAN or the Internet.

[0019] Hereinafter, when any power such as a plurality of client PCs 2;;! To 2-n that are present is indicated without being specified, they may be simply abbreviated as client PC 2 or the like.

 In the following, devices such as the client PC 2 that can be the subject of information processing and communication in the network system 1 may be collectively referred to as nodes.

 In addition, any two or more of the devices constituting the network system 1 shown in FIG. 1 can be appropriately configured integrally.

 In the following drawings, substantially the same components and processes are denoted by the same reference numerals.

 Note that the data access device 3 shown in FIG. 1 executes a profile information operation program 30 to be described later with reference to FIGS.

 Further, the profile specification information management apparatus 12 executes a profile specification information operation program 40 described later with reference to FIG.

 Further, the external profile information management device 14 executes a profile information search program 42 described later with reference to FIG.

 Further, the management PC 4 executes a profile specification information operation program 44 to be described later with reference to FIG.

[0021] With this configuration, the network system 1 has the data access device 3—;! And external profile information management device 14—;! To 14— n, store and manage profile information in a distributed manner.

 Further, the network system 1 stores and manages information related to profile information (profile specification information) in a distributed manner in the data access devices 3;;! 3-n and the profile specification information management device 12.

 By storing and managing information in this way, the network system 1 efficiently searches for distributed profile file specification information, and efficiently searches for distributed profile information based on the searched profile specification information. Search and send to user.

[0022] [Nohware Software]

 Figure 2 shows the hardware configuration of client PC 2, data access device 3, management PC 4, profile specification information management device 12, external profile information management device 14, policy server 16 and service execution device 18 shown in Fig. 1. It is a figure illustrated.

 As shown in FIG. 2, these nodes communicate with other nodes via a main body 20 including a CPU 200 and a memory 202, an input / output device 22 including a display device, a keyboard and a mouse, and the network system 1. Communication device 24, CD device, FD device, HDD device, and the like, and storage device 26 that writes and reads information to and from storage medium 28.

 That is, each node of the network system 1 has a configuration part as a computer capable of information processing and communication with other nodes.

[0023] [Information handled by network system 1]

 The information handled by the network system 1 will be described below.

 FIG. 3 shows profile information that the data access device 3 shown in FIG. 1 reads from at least one of the data access device 3 and the external profile information management device 14 shown in FIG. 1 in response to a request from the client PC 2. It is a figure illustrated.

In the network system 1, profile information is identified by a path and is a search target.

 As shown in FIG. 3, the profile information includes a path and one or more attributes.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3, the path includes a combination of a profile name and a user ID. Mouth file name and user ID! / Will be described later).

 In addition to this information, the path may include elements other than the profile file name and user ID, such as attribute names included in the profile information.

[0026] The profile name describes the name of the profile information.

 The user ID describes a value that identifies the user.

 The attribute is data constituting the profile information, and the profile information is composed of one or more attributes.

 Each attribute in the profile information is identified by an attribute name and has an attribute value as a value.

 [0027] FIG. 3 illustrates an example in which an attribute indicating information indicating "movie" preferred by a person with profile information power and other additional information such as "other" is included.

 In addition, the case where the attribute includes an attribute name and an attribute value such as “name”, “age”, and “gender” of a certain person is exemplified.

[0028] Profile specification information is metadata of profile information.

 FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating profile specification information stored and managed in the data access device 3 and the profile specification information management device 12 shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 4, the profile specification information includes profile name, schema information, data source, data access device information, and execution service information.

 Further, the data access device information includes a key filter and a key hash table.

[0030] The profile name describes the name of the profile information to be associated and is used to identify the profile specification information.

 The schema information describes the data structure of profile information.

 The data source describes which node the profile information is stored in! /.

[0031] The data access device information indicates in which data access device the profile information is stored.

 The execution service information indicates a service that is executed in accordance with the operation of the profile information.

[0032] The key filter is fixed from a given message (in this specification, a user ID). Describes a function (specifically, a hash function such as MD5 or SHAl) used to generate a long pseudorandom number.

 Note that a fixed-length pseudo-random number generated by the key filter is referred to as a key filter value.

[0033] The key hash table describes a table associating key filter values with data to be searched (values identifying the data access device 3 shown in FIG. 1).

 Hereinafter, the “value for identifying the data access device 3” will be referred to as “data access device ID”.

 FIG. 5 is a diagram exemplifying profile information stored and managed in the data access device 3 shown in FIG.

 The profile name, user ID, key filter value and profile information are the same as described above.

 Whether or not the flag is profile information stored in the data access device 3 associated with the data access device ID when it is no longer associated with a certain data access device ID key filter value in the key hash table. Indicates.

In this way, the profile name in the path is used by the data access device 3 to search for the profile specification information.

 Further, the retrieved profile specification information and path are used by the data access device 3 to retrieve the profile file information.

 In addition to searching the entire profile information, the path can be used to search a part of the profile information.

[0036] [Description of each node]

 Hereinafter, each node of the network system 1 will be described.

 [Data access device 3]

 The data access device 3 shown in FIG. 1 executes a profile information operation program 30, which will be described later with reference to FIGS. 6 to 11, and performs the following processes (1) to (3).

[0037] (1) Profile information search processing:

When the user's ability to operate the client PC 2 shown in Fig. 1 and a search for profile information (Figs. 3 and 5) are specified by specifying a path known to the user, the client PC 2 The specification and instruction are accepted and transmitted to the data access device 3.

 The data access device 3 instructed to search searches for profile information. The data access device 3 sends the searched profile information to the client that requested the search.

Send to PC2.

[0038] (2) Profile information storage processing:

 As in the above (1) profile information search process, when the user specifies the path and the profile information to be stored and instructs the storage of the profile information, the client PC 2 shown in FIG. Is received and transmitted to the data access device 3.

 The data access device 3 instructed to store stores the profile information.

[0039] (3) Profile information deletion processing:

 As in (1) Profile information search process described above, when the user designates a path and instructs deletion of profile information, the client PC 2 shown in FIG. 1 accepts the designation and instruction, and the data access device Send to 3.

 Note that the user can specify a path and profile information to be deleted. Data access device 3 instructed to delete deletes the profile information.

Furthermore, the data access device 3 executes a profile specification information confirmation program 40 described later with reference to FIG. 12, and performs the following process (4).

 (4) Profile specification information confirmation processing:

 When the profile specification information update unit 426 (Fig. 13) updates the profile specification information (Fig. 4), the data access device 3 reads the updated profile specification information and the key hash included in the profile file specification information. Check if the table has changed.

Furthermore, the data access device 3 performs the following process (5) in cooperation with the profile specification information management device 12 (FIG. 1).

[0042] (5) Profile specification information search processing:

Profile specification information search unit 324 (Fig. 7) If the desired profile specification information (Fig. 4) cannot be searched from 1S, profile specification information cache DB30 2, the data access device 3 sends a request to the profile specification information management device 12. , Couldn't search Profinore Requests retrieval of specification information.

 The profile specification information management apparatus 12 requested to search searches for profile specification information.

 Furthermore, the data access device 3 performs the following processing (6) in cooperation with the external profile information management device 14 (FIG. 1).

 (6) Profile information search processing:

 Profile S is searched for by the data access device 3 (search processing in the profile information search unit 338, which will be described later with reference to FIG. 7), the profile information cache DB 304, and the profile information DB 306 (FIG. 7). If the desired profile information (FIGS. 3 and 5) is not stored and cannot be searched, the data access device 3 will not be able to search the external file information management device 14 with the strong profile information. Request a search for.

 The external profile information management device 14 requested to search searches for profile information.

 [0044] [Profile information operation program 30]

 FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of the profile information operation program 30 executed on the data access device 3 shown in FIG.

 As shown in FIG. 6, the profile information operation program 30 includes a communication processing unit 300, a profile specification information cache DB302, a profile information cache DB304, a profile information DB306, a profile information search unit 32, a profile information storage unit 36, and a profile. An information deletion unit 38 is included.

 The profile information operation program 30 is supplied to the data access device 3 via the storage medium 28 (FIG. 2), loaded into the memory 202, and installed on the data access device 3 (not shown), for example. Thus, it is executed by specifically using the hardware of the data access device 3 (the same applies to the following programs).

[0045] [Communication processing unit 300]

 The communication processing unit 300 performs processing necessary for communicating with other nodes.

[0046] [Profile Specification Information Cache DB302] Profile specification information cache DB302 stores profile specification information (Fig. 4) as cache data.

 Details of the cache processing will be described later with reference to FIGS.

[0047] [Profile information cache DB304]

 The profile information cache DB 304 stores profile information (Figs. 3 and 5) as cache data.

 Details of the cache processing will be described later with reference to FIGS.

[0048] [Profile Information DB306]

 Profile information DB 306 stores profile information in data access device 3

[0049] [Profile Information Search Unit 32]

 FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration of the profile information search unit 32 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, the profile information search unit 32 includes a user interface (UI) unit 320, a request interpretation unit 322, a profile specification information search unit 324, a data access device specification unit 326, an access control unit 334, and a service execution. A control unit 336, a profile information search unit 338, and a node specification unit 340 are configured.

 Further, the data access device specifying unit 326 includes a key filter value calculation unit 328, a data access device ID acquisition unit 330, and a data access device ID determination unit 332. Further, the node specifying unit 340 includes a data source reading unit 342, a profile information search unit 344, and a profile information storage unit 346.

[0050] The profile information search unit 32 cooperates with the communication processing unit 300, the profile specification information cache DB 302, the profile information cache DB 304, the profile information DB 306, and the node specification unit 340 by these components. (1) Perform profile information search processing.

 Similarly, the profile information search unit 32 performs the above-described (2) profile information storage process in cooperation with the profile information storage unit 36 (described later with reference to FIG. 9) and the like.

Similarly, the profile information search unit 32 performs (3) profile information deletion processing in cooperation with a profile information deletion unit 38 (described later with reference to FIG. 10). [0051] [UI part 320]

 The UI unit 320 provides a user interface for assisting the operation of the user of the data access device 3.

Similarly, the UI unit 320 is a user for assisting the operation of the data access device ₃ (profile information operation program 30) to the user of another node such as the client PC 2 via the network 10. Provide an interface.

 Further, the UI unit 320 accepts an operation performed on the user interface, and outputs data indicating the accepted operation to the request interpretation unit 322.

[0052] [Request Interpreter 3 ²² ]

 The request interpreter 322 interprets user operations (command type, such as a path) and profile information input from the UI unit 320.

 When the command transmitted from the client PC 2 is (1) profile information search processing, the request interpretation unit 322 displays the interpreted path as a profile specification information search unit 324, a key filter value calculation unit 328, and a data access device ID. The data is output to the determination unit 332, the profile information search unit 338, and the profile information search unit 344.

[0053] Also, in the case of (2) profile information storage processing, the request interpretation unit 322 sends the interpreted path to the profile specification information search unit 324, key filter value calculation unit 328, and data access device ID determination unit 332. Output.

 Further, the request interpretation unit 322 outputs the interpreted path to the profile information storage unit 362 (described later with reference to FIG. 9).

 Further, the request interpreting unit 322 outputs the interpreted profile information to the precondition checking unit 360 (described later with reference to FIG. 9) and the profile information storage unit 362.

[0054] Also, in the case of (3) profile information deletion processing, the request interpretation unit 322 sends the interpreted nose to the profile specification information search unit 324, key filter value calculation unit 328, and data access shown in FIG. Output to device ID determination unit 332.

 Further, the request interpretation unit 322 outputs the interpreted path to the profile information deletion unit 380 (described later with reference to FIG. 10).

Further, the request interpreter 322, if there is interpreted profile information, the profile. Is output to the precondition checking unit 360 (described later with reference to FIG. 10) and the profile information deleting unit 380.

[0055] [Profile Specification Information Search Unit 324]

 As shown in Fig. 4, the profile name is uniquely defined for each profile specification information (Fig. 4).

 Therefore, the profile specification information can be searched using the profile name included in the path output from the request interpreter 322.

The profile specification information search unit 324 searches for profile specification information from the profile specification information cache DB 302 or the like using the profile name input from the request interpretation unit 322.

 (1) In the profile information search process, the profile specification information search unit 324 uses the searched profile specification information as a key filter value calculation unit 328, data access device ID acquisition unit 330, service execution control unit 336, and data source read. Output to part 342

[0057] In addition, (2) in the profile information storage process, the profile specification information search unit 324 uses the searched profile specification information (Fig. 4), the key filter value calculation unit 328, the data access device ID acquisition unit 330, and the service execution. Output to the control unit 336.

 Further, the profile specification information search unit 324 outputs the searched profile specification information to the profile file information storage unit 362 (described later with reference to FIG. 9).

[0058] Also, (3) in the profile information deletion process, the profile specification information search unit 324 uses the searched profile specification information (Fig. 4), the key filter value calculation unit 328, the data access device ID acquisition unit 330, and the service execution. Output to the control unit 336.

 Further, the profile specification information search unit 324 outputs the searched profile specification information to the profile file information deletion unit 380 (described later with reference to FIG. 10).

[0059] [Data Access Device Identification Unit 326]

 FIG. 8 is a diagram showing processing of the data access device specifying unit 326 shown in FIG.

The key filter value calculation unit 328 of the data access device specifying unit 326 includes the user ID included in the path input from the request interpretation unit 322 and the profile specification information search unit 324. The key filter value is calculated using the key filter included in the input profile specification information, and is output to the data access device ID acquisition unit 330.

 Specifically, the key filter value calculation unit 328 calculates the key filter value by substituting the user ID into the key filter.

The data access device ID acquisition unit 330 uses the key filter value input from the key filter value calculation unit 328 and the key hash table included in the profile specification information input from the profile specification information search unit 324. Thus, an identifier (data access device ID) for identifying one of the data access devices 3 is derived.

 The data access device ID acquisition unit 330 outputs the derived data access device ID to the data access device ID determination unit 332.

 The data access device ID determination unit 332 is a data access device 3 in which the data access device 3 corresponding to the data access device ID input from the data access device ID acquisition unit 330 operates the profile information operation program 30. It is determined whether or not the data access device ID indicating is included.

 For example, when the profile information operation program 30 is executed on the data access device 3-i (i = l to n), the data access device ID determination unit 332 included in the profile information operation program 30 It is determined whether or not one or more data access devices 3 corresponding to the device ID include the data access device 3-i.

 The data access device ID determination unit 332 does not include the data access device ID in which the profile information operation program 30 is operating (in the above example, one or more data access devices 3 corresponding to the data access device ID are If it is determined that the data access device 3-i is not included, the following processing is performed.

 [0062] The data access device ID determination unit 332 specifies the path input from the request interpretation unit 322 to the data access device 3 corresponding to the data access device ID input from the data access device ID acquisition unit 330. , Request a search for profile information (FIGS. 3 and 5) associated with the path.

At this time, a communication error may occur, for example, the data access device 3 requested to search denies access. [0063] When a communication error occurs in the data access device 3 requested to be searched, the access device ID determination unit 332 records that the data access device 3 that has denied access is in an error state.

 Furthermore, the access device ID determination unit 332 does not request the search of profile information from the access device 3 in which the error is recorded.

[0064] Specifically, the access device ID determination unit 332 sends an access device 3 to an SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) agent (not shown) connected to the network system 1 (Fig. 1). Send error status of.

 The network administrator can manage the error state transmitted from the SNMP agent by the SNMP manager (not shown) connected to the network system 1. Hereinafter, when various communication errors occur, the same processing is performed.

If the processing is not interrupted due to a communication error or the like, the data access device 3 requested to search searches the profile information DB 306 or the like for profile information associated with the specified path.

 The data access device 3 requested to search transmits the searched profile information to the data access device ID determination unit 332.

(1) In the profile information search process, the data access device ID determination unit 332 transmits the profile information returned from the data access device 3 to the client PC 2 that requested the search.

 After the data access device ID determination unit 332 appropriately transmits the profile information to the client PC, the profile information operation program 30 ends the search process.

 In (2) Profile information storage processing and (3) Profile information deletion processing! /, The data access device ID determination unit 332 uses the profile information returned from the data access device 3 as a prerequisite check unit 360. (To be described later with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10).

 [0067] On the other hand, when the data access device ID determination unit 332 determines that the profile information operation program 30 includes the data access device 3 operating! /, The profile information operation program 30 accesses the operation process. Move to control unit 334.

[0068] [Access control unit 334] The access control unit 334 determines whether or not the access from the client PC 2 that has requested the operation process to the data access device 3 is permitted according to the access policy.

 Specifically, the access control unit 334 inquires of the policy server 16 whether or not the client PC 2 that has requested the operation processing can access the data access device 3. Upon receiving the inquiry, the policy server 16 transmits access permission information to the data access device 3.

 When the policy server 16 permits access, the profile information operation program 30 moves the operation process to the service execution control unit 336.

 On the other hand, when the policy server 16 denies access, the profile information operation program 30 moves the operation process to the node specifying unit 340.

[0070] [Service execution control unit 336]

 The service execution control unit 336 reads execution service information included in the specification information input from the profile specification information search unit 324.

 The service execution control unit 336 requests the service execution device 18 to execute a service based on the content of the read execution service information.

[0071] Note that the service may be executed either before or after the profile information is manipulated.

 Also, it doesn't matter if the service is not performed at all.

 After the service execution device 18 requested to execute the service appropriately executes the service, the profile information operation program 30 moves the operation process to the profile information search unit 338.

 [0072] [Profile Information Search Unit 338]

The profile information search unit 338 searches for profile information (FIGS. 3 and 5) from at least one of the profile information cache DB 304 and the profile information DB 306. Since the path is unique for each profile information, the profile information search unit 338 uses the path input from the request interpretation unit 322 to search for profile information associated with the path. (1) In the profile information search process, the profile information search unit 338 searches for profile information, and transmits the searched profile information to the client PC 2 that has requested the search.

 After the profile information search unit 338 appropriately returns the profile information to the client PC 2, the profile information operation program 30 ends the search process.

 If the profile information search unit 338 cannot search the profile information, such as an error occurs during the process, the profile information operation program 30 moves the operation process to the node specifying unit 340.

[0074] [Node identification unit 340]

 The node specifying unit 340 searches for profile information from other nodes when access is denied by the access control unit 334, or when profile information cannot be searched by the profile file information search unit 338.

[0075] [Data Source Reading Unit 342]

 The data source reading unit 342 uses the data source included in the profile specification information (Fig. 4) input from the profile specification information search unit 324 to identify the node storing the profile information (Figs. 3 and 5). To derive.

 The data source reading unit 342 outputs the derived node information to the profile information search unit 344.

[0076] [Profile Information Search Unit 344]

 The profile information search unit 344 reads the node information input from the data source reading unit 342.

 Further, the profile information search unit 344 designates the path input from the request interpretation unit 322 to the read node and requests a search for profile information associated with the path.

 The node requested to search searches the profile information DB 306 of the node for the profile information associated with the path specified by the profile information search unit 344.

Details of this search process will be described later with reference to FIG. Further, the node requested to search transmits the profile information searched to the profile information search storage unit 346 after searching the profile information.

(1) In the profile information search process, the profile information storage unit 346 transmits the profile information transmitted from the node force to the client PC 2 that requested the search.

 Further, the profile information storage unit 346 stores the profile information transmitted from the node in the profile information cache DB 304.

 After the profile information storage unit 346 appropriately processes the profile information, the profile information operation program 30 ends the search process.

[0079] In (2) profile information storage processing and (3) profile information deletion processing, the profile information storage unit converts the profile information transmitted from the node into the precondition checking unit 360 (Fig. 9 and Fig. 9). Send to (see below with reference to Figure 10).

 Further, the profile information storage unit 346 stores the profile information transmitted from the node in the profile information cache DB 304.

[0080] [Profile information storage unit 36]

 FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a configuration of the profile information storage unit 36 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, the profile information storage unit 36 includes a precondition checking unit 360 and a profile information storage unit 362.

[0081] The profile information storage unit 36 performs the above-described (2) profile information storage process in cooperation with the profile information search unit 32 and the like.

 Further, the profile information storage unit 36, as necessary, (2) in addition to the profile information storage processing, indicates that the profile information (Figs. 3 and 5) is properly stored, and that the client PC2 that requested the storage is requested. Notify

[0082] [Prerequisite Checking Unit 360]

 The precondition checking unit 360 reads the profile information (Figs. 3 and 5) input from the request interpretation unit 322 shown in Fig. 7 and the preconditions for storing the profile information match! / Check whether or not.

Whether or not the preconditions are met indicates, for example, whether or not the value of a certain attribute is within a predetermined range and whether or not it is! / According to the format. After confirming that the preconditions match, the precondition checking unit 360 moves the storage process to the profile information storage unit 362.

[0083] [Profile Information Storage Unit 362]

 The profile information storage unit 362 reads a data source included in the profile specification information input from the profile specification information search unit 324.

 Further, the profile information storage unit 362 requests the node associated with the read data source to store the profile information input from the request interpretation unit 322 by specifying the path transmitted from the request interpretation unit 322. To do.

Note that if there are a plurality of nodes associated with the read data source, the load on the network 10 shown in FIG. 1 may increase.

 Therefore, the profile information storage unit 362 performs the service execution by the service execution control unit 336 (FIG. 7) and the preconditions by the precondition checking unit 360, which can occur for all nodes along with the profile information storage processing. You do not need to ask for confirmation. You can ask for some nodes as needed! /.

 Further, the profile information storage unit 362 updates the profile information by specifying the path input from the request interpretation unit 322 to the profile information DB 306.

 After the profile information storage unit 362 appropriately stores and updates, the profile information operation program 30 ends the storage process.

[0085] [Profile Information Deletion Unit 38]

 FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration of the profile information deletion unit 38 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, the profile information deleting unit 38 includes a precondition checking unit 360 and a profile file information deleting unit 380.

The profile information deletion unit 38 performs the above-described (3) profile information deletion process in cooperation with the profile information search unit 32 and the like by using these components.

 Furthermore, the profile information deletion unit 38, if necessary, in addition to (3) profile information deletion processing, indicates that the profile information (Figs. Notify PC2.

[0087] [Prerequisite Checking Unit 360] Prerequisite checking unit 360 reads the profile information input from profile information search unit 338 or profile information storage unit 346 shown in FIG. 7 and confirms that the prerequisites for deleting the profile information match. Confirm whether or not.

 After the precondition checking unit 360 confirms that the preconditions match, the profile information operating program 30 moves the deletion process to the profile information deleting unit 380.

[0088] [Profile Information Deletion Unit 380]

 The profile information deletion unit 380 reads the data source included in the profile specification information (FIG. 4) input from the profile specification information search unit 324 shown in FIG.

Furthermore, the profile information deletion unit 380 specifies the path input from the request interpretation unit 322 shown in FIG. 7 for the node associated with the read data source, and associates it with the path. Issue a request to delete profile information.

 Further, the profile information deletion unit 380 deletes the description about the node associated with the read data source from the read data source.

[0090] Note that if there are a plurality of nodes associated with the read data source, the load status of the network 10 shown in FIG. 1 may increase.

 Therefore, the profile information deletion unit 380 performs the service execution by the service execution control unit 336 (FIG. 7) and the precondition check unit 360, which can occur when the profile information is stored for all of the plurality of nodes. You do not have to request confirmation of prerequisites.

 Furthermore, the profile information deletion unit 380 specifies a path with respect to the profile information DB 306 and deletes the profile information associated with the path.

 After the profile information deletion unit 380 appropriately deletes, the profile information operation program 30 ends the deletion process.

The data access device 3 shown in FIG. 1 executes the profile specification information confirmation program 40 shown in FIG. 11 and performs the above-described process (4).

 [Profile Specification Information Confirmation Program 40]

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of the profile specification information confirmation program 40 that operates on the data access device 3. As shown in FIG. 11, the profile specification information confirmation program 40 includes a communication processing unit 300 and a profile specification information confirmation unit 400.

 The profile specification information confirmation program 40 performs the process (4) using these components.

 When the profile specification information is updated, the data access device 3 receives the profile specification information from the profile specification information management device 12 (described later with reference to FIG. 12). The data access device 3 checks whether or not there is a change in the information related to the data access device 3 that is currently processing in the key hash table included in the profile specification information received via the communication processing unit 300. .

 That is, the data access device 3 does not describe the key filter value associated with the data access device 3 that is currently processing due to the update of the key hash table, and the profile specification information stored in the data access device 3 Whether it is necessary to move the data to another data access device 3 or not.

[0095] If the key hash table is not updated, and if the key filter value associated with the data access device 3 currently performing the processing is not updated, the profile is updated. The specification information confirmation program 40 ends the confirmation process. On the other hand, when the key filter value associated with the data access device 3 that is currently processing is not described due to the update of the key hash table, the profile specification information stored in the data access device 3 is changed to other data. Must be moved to access device 3.

 Specifically, the data access device 3 performs the following processing.

 The data access device 3 sets the flag included in the profile specification information to be moved to be invalid, and prevents access from other nodes while the flag is set to invalid.

 Furthermore, the data access device 3 stores the profile specification information to be moved in the updated key hash table in the data access device 3 that is supposed to store the profile specification information.

[0097] After the data access device 3 appropriately stores the profile specification information, The like information confirmation program 40 ends the confirmation process.

 By such processing, data movement between the data access devices 3 is minimized.

 [0098] [Profile Specification Information Management Device 12]

 The profile specification information management apparatus 12 shown in FIG. 1 executes the profile specification information operation program 42 shown in FIG. 12, and in addition to the above-described (5) profile specification information search processing, the following (7) to (9 ) Is performed.

[0099] (7) Profile specification information storage processing:

 When profile specification information is specified and storage of the profile specification information is requested, the profile specification information management device 12 stores the profile specification information.

[0100] (8) Profile specification information update processing:

 When the profile name and profile specification information are specified and the profile specification information associated with the profile name is requested to be updated to the specified profile specification information, the profile specification information management device 12 Update

[0101] (9) Profile specification information deletion processing:

 When the profile name is specified and the deletion of the profile specification information associated with the profile name is requested, the profile specification information management device 12 deletes the profile specification information.

[0102] [Profile Specification Information Operation Program 42]

 FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a configuration of the profile specification information operation program 42 operating on the profile specification information management apparatus 12 shown in FIG.

 As shown in FIG. 12, the profile specification information operation program 42 includes a communication processing unit 300, a request interpretation unit 420, a profile specification information search unit 422, a profile specification information storage unit 424, a profile specification information update unit 426, and a profile information deletion unit. It consists of 428 and profile specification information DB430.

The profile operation program 42 performs (5) profile specification information search processing and the above processing (7) to (9) by these components. [0103] [Request interpreter 4 ² 〇]

 The request interpreter 420 interprets instructions (command types, profile names, etc.) and profile specification information transmitted from other nodes via the communication processor 300.

 When the command transmitted from another node is (5) profile specification information search processing, the request interpretation unit 420 outputs the interpreted profile name to the profile specification information search unit 422.

 [0104] When the command transmitted from another node is (7) profile specification information storage processing, the request interpreter 420 displays the interpreted profile name and profile specification information.

To the profile specification information storage unit 424.

[0105] If the command transmitted from another node is (8) profile specification information update processing, the request interpreter 420 displays the interpreted profile name and profile specification information.

And output to the profile specification information update unit 426.

If the command transmitted from another node is (9) profile specification information deletion processing, request interpreting section 420 outputs the interpreted profile name to profile specification information deleting section 428.

[0107] [Profile specification information search unit 422]

 (5) In the profile specification information search process! /, The profile specification information search unit 422 searches the profile specification information and sends the searched profile specification to the node that requested the search via the communication processing unit 300. Send information.

 After the profile specification information search unit 422 appropriately transmits the profile specification information, the profile file specification information operation program 42 ends the search process.

[Profile specification information storage unit 424]

 (7) In the profile specification information storage process, the profile specification information storage unit 424 uses the profile name input from the request interpretation unit 422 to receive the profile specification information input from the request interpretation unit 422. , Stored in the profile specification information DB430. After the profile specification information storage unit 424 appropriately stores the profile specification information, the profile file specification information operation program 42 ends the storage process.

[0109] [Profile Specification Information Update Unit 426] (8) In the profile specification information storage process! /, The profile specification information update unit 426 uses the profile name input from the request interpretation unit 420 to convert the profile specification information associated with the profile name to the profile specification. Information Search from DB430.

 Furthermore, the profile specification information update unit 426 updates the searched profile specification information to the profile specification information input from the retard interpretation unit 420.

 Further, the profile specification information storage unit 424 transmits the stored profile specification information to the data access device 3, and requests confirmation of the profile specification information as described above with reference to FIG.

 After the profile specification information update unit 426 appropriately updates the profile specification information, the profile file specification information operation program 42 ends the update process.

[0111] [Profile Specification Information Deleter 428]

 (9) For the profile specification information deletion process! The profile specification information deletion unit 428 uses the profile name input from the request interpretation unit 420 to convert the profile specification information associated with the profile name into the profile specification. Information Delete from DB430. After the profile specification information deletion unit 428 appropriately deletes the profile specification information, the profile file specification information operation program 42 ends the deletion process.

[0112] [Profile Specification Information DB430]

 Profile specification information The DB 430 stores profile specification information.

[0113] [External profile information management device 14]

 The external profile information management apparatus 14 shown in FIG. 1 executes the above-described process (6) by executing the profile information search program 44 shown in FIG.

[0114] [Profile information search program 44]

 FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a configuration of the profile information search program 44 operating on the external profile information management device 14 shown in FIG.

 As shown in FIG. 13, the profile information search program 44 includes a communication processing unit 300, a profile information search unit 440, and a profile information DB 306.

The profile information search program 44 performs the process (6) using these components. [0115] [Communication Processing Unit 300]

 The communication processing unit 300 receives a profile information search request from the data access device 3 and outputs it to the profile specification information search unit 440.

[0116] [Profile Information Search Unit 440]

 In response to the search request input from the communication processing unit 300, the profile information search unit 440 searches for profile information from the profile information DB 306.

 After searching for profile information, the profile information search unit 440 transmits the searched profile information to the data access device 3 via the communication processing unit 300.

 After the profile information search unit 440 appropriately transmits the profile specification information, the profile information search program 44 ends the search process.

[0117] [Management PC4]

 The management PC 4 executes the profile specification information operation program 46 shown in FIG. 14 and performs the following process (10).

 [0118] (10) Manager's ability to operate the management PC 4 shown in Fig. 1 When a profile name and profile specification information known to the administrator are specified and the operation is instructed, the management PC 4 accepts the instruction. To the profile specification information management device 12 (FIG. 1).

[0119] [Profile Specification Information Operation Program 46]

 FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of the profile specification information operation program 46 operating on the management PC 4 shown in FIG.

 As shown in FIG. 14, the profile specification information operation program 46 includes a communication processing unit 300, a UI unit 320, a request interpretation unit 420, a profile specification information search unit 422, a profile specification information storage unit 424, and a profile specification information update unit 426. And a profile specification information deletion unit 428.

 The profile specification information operation program 46 performs the process (10) using these components.

[0120] The request interpreter 420 interprets instructions (command types, profile names, etc.) and profile specification information (Fig. 4) issued from the management PC 4, and stores the profile specification information search unit 422, profile specification information storage. Part 424, profile specification information update part 426 or professional Output to file specification information deletion unit 428.

When the request interpretation unit 420 determines that the request from the management PC 4 is a search request, the profile specification information operation program 46 searches the profile specification information using the profile specification information search unit 422.

 When the request interpretation unit 420 determines that the request from the management PC 4 is a storage request, the profile specification information operation program 46 stores the profile specification information by the profile specification information storage unit 424.

When the request interpretation unit 420 determines that the request from the management PC 4 is an update request, the profile specification information operation program 46 updates the profile specification information by the profile specification information update unit 426.

 When the request interpretation unit 420 determines that the request from the management PC 4 is a deletion request, the profile specification information operation program 46 deletes the profile specification information by the profile specification information deletion unit 428.

[0123] [Profile specification information search part 422]

 The profile specification information storage unit 422 requests the profile specification information management device 12 (FIG. 1) to search the profile specification information input from the request interpretation unit 420. After appropriately searching for the profile specification information (described above with reference to FIG. 12), the profile specification information operation program 46 ends the search process.

[0124] [Profile Specification Information Storage Unit 424]

 The profile specification information storage unit 424 requests the profile specification information management device 12 (FIG. 1) to store the profile specification information input from the request interpretation unit 420. After appropriately storing the profile specification information (described above with reference to FIG. 12), the profile specification information operation program 46 ends the storage process.

[0125] [Profile Specification Information Update Unit 426] The profile specification information update unit 426 sends profile specification information corresponding to the profile name input from the request interpreter 420 to the profile specification information management device 12 (FIG. 1). Request to be updated with information.

 After the profile specification information management apparatus 12 requested to store the profile specification information appropriately stores the profile specification information (described above with reference to FIG. 12), the profile specification information operation program 46 ends the storage process.

[Profile specification information deletion unit 428]

 The profile specification information update unit 428 requests the profile specification information management apparatus 12 (FIG. 1) to delete the profile specification information corresponding to the profile name input from the request interpretation unit 420.

 After the profile specification information management apparatus 12 that is requested to delete the profile specification information appropriately deletes the profile specification information (described above with reference to FIG. 12), the profile specification information operation program 46 ends the deletion process.

[0127] As described above, the administrator can update the profile specification information from the management PC 4 via the profile specification information management device 12.

 Also, the administrator can operate the data access device by updating the key hash table in the profile specification information as follows.

[0128] The administrator can add the new data access device 3 (Fig. 1) to the network system 1 (Fig. 1) by adding the information of the new data access device 3 to the key hash table. wear.

 Similarly, the administrator can delete the data access device 3 from the network system 1 by deleting the information of the data access device 3 from the key hash table. Furthermore, the administrator can distribute the load on the data access device 3 of the network system 1 by changing the association between the key filter value and the data access device ID in the key hash table.

[0129] [Overall operation of network system 1]

Hereinafter, the overall operation of the network system 1 will be described. FIG. 15A to FIG. 15E are first communication sequence diagrams illustrating the overall operation (S10) of the network system 1 shown in FIG. The processing when a profile information search request is made and the profile information operation program 30 is started is shown.

 [0131] [Profile information search]

 As shown in FIG. 15A, in step 100 (S 100), the client PC 2 requests the data access device 3 to search for profile information (FIGS. 3 and 5) by specifying a path.

 [0132] In step 102 (S102), the data access device 3 that is requested to search searches the profile specification information management device 12 for the profile specification information (FIG. 4) associated with the specified profile name. .

 In step 104 (S104), after the profile specification information is obtained, the profile specification information management device 12 transmits the obtained profile specification information to the data access device 3.

 FIG. 16 exemplifies operations that are performed simultaneously when the data access device 3 searches the profile specification information management device 12 for profile specification information in response to a request from the client PC 2 shown in FIG. 15A. It is a sequence diagram.

 As shown in FIG. 16, the profile specification information (step 102 (S102)) retrieved from the profile specification information management device 12 is transmitted to the data access device 3 (step 10 4 (S104)) and the profile specification It can be stored in the information cache DB 302 as cache data.

 By such processing, the profile specification information can be searched by the data access device 3 without searching the profile specification information management device 12 for the profile specification information.

FIG. 17 shows the profile specification information from the profile specification information cache DB 302 of the data access device 3 or the profile specification information DB 430 of the profile specification information management device 12 shown in FIG. 15A. FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram illustrating a process for searching (FIG. 4). As shown in FIG. 16, in step 104 (S 104), once the profile specification information is retrieved, it is recorded as cache data in the profile specification information cache DB 302.

I think.

 Therefore, when the data access device 3 is requested to search, the data access device 3 first searches the profile specification cache DB 302! / ヽ (step 102-1 (S102-1)) and obtains the profile specification information. After that, the obtained profile specification information is held in the data access device 3 (step 104-1 (S104_1)).

Data access device 3 searches the profile specification information DB 430 of the profile specification information management device 12 only when it cannot be searched from the desired profile specification information power profile specification cache DB 302 (step 102-2 ( S 102— 2)).

 The profile specification information management device 12 sends the obtained profile information to the data access device 3 after the profile specification information is obtained from the profile specification information DB 430. By such processing, the data access device 3 becomes more efficient. You can search for

 [0136] Returning to FIG. 15A, the continuation of the processing in step 104 (S104) will be described below.

 In step 104 (S104), the data access device 3 reads the data access device information and the data source included in the searched profile specification information.

 The data access device 3 obtains the storage location of the profile information associated with the designated path based on the read data access device information and the data source.

The profile information operation program 30 determines the type of profile information and the search processing in the profile information operation program 30 according to the storage location of the profile information.

 The same applies to the storage processing and deletion processing in the profile information operation program 30 below.

FIG. 18 is a diagram exemplifying the association between the storage location of profile information and the type of profile information. As shown in FIG. 18, the profile information is classified into physical profile information, external profile information, and logical profile information according to the storage location of the profile information derived in step 104 (S104, FIG. 15A).

 The data access device 3 uses the part of the profile specification information (data source and data access device information) obtained in step 104 (S104, FIG. 15A) to determine the storage location of the profile information, and then stores it. Search profile information by location.

[0139] [Physical profile information]

 If nothing is described in the data source as indicated by the reference symbol “a” in FIG. 18, the data access device 3 determines that the profile information is stored in the data access device 3 (s). To do.

 At this time, the data access device 3 specifies the data access device 3 in which the profile information is stored using the data access device information.

[0140] As a method for specifying the data access device 3, as described above with reference to FIG. 8, a method using a key filter and a key hash table is employed.

 Thus, the profile information stored in the identified data access device 3 is referred to as physical profile information.

 [0141] [External profile information]

 As shown in FIG. 18 with the symbol b, when the data source has a description (for example, URL) identifying the external profile information management device 14, the data access device 3 has the profile information as external profile information. It is determined that it is stored in management device 14 (s)!

 At this time, the data access device 3 specifies the external profile information management device 14 in which the profile information is stored using the description of the data source.

[0142] The external profile device means a device connected to an existing DB that stores profile information (for example, a DB that has been used before this information search system is constructed).

Thus, the profile information stored in the identified external profile device 14 is referred to as external profile information. Note that the external profile information can be stored in the profile information cache DB 304 using the data access device information.

 By this processing, profile information can be made redundant.

[0144] [Logical profile information]

 As shown in FIG. 18 with reference symbol c, when the profile name is described in the data source, the data access device 3 stores the profile information storage location in the profile specification information associated with the profile name. It is determined that the profile information is stored in the profile information data access device 3 (s) and the external profile information management device 14 (s).

 In this way, the profile information stored in the identified data access device 3 and external profile information management device 14 is referred to as logical profile information! /.

 Similar to the external profile information, the logical profile information can be stored in the profile information cache DB 304 using the data access information.

Hereinafter, returning to FIG. 15A, the continuation of the processing in step 104 (S104) will be described.

 When the profile information operation program 30 determines from the profile specification information read in step 104 (S 104) that the storage location is the data access device 3 (= physical profile information), the step 106 (S106 ) To step 120 (S120) (described later with reference to FIG. 15B) or steps 122 (S122) to 132 (S132) (described later with reference to FIG. 15C).

[0146] The profile information operation program 30 determines that the storage location is the external profile information device 14 (= external profile information) from the profile specification information read in step 104 (S104) Step 134 (S134) to Step 148 (S148) are performed (described later with reference to FIG. 15D).

 The profile information operation program 30 determines that the storage location is the data access device 3 and the external profile information device 14 (= logical profile information) from the profile specification information read in step 104 (S 104). In this case, the processing from step 150 (S150) to step 162 (S162) is performed (described later with reference to FIG. 15E).

[0147] [Search physical profile information (1)] In step 104 (S104), after deriving the data access device ID using the profile specification information, the data access device 3 performs a search process on the data access device 3 associated with the derived data access device ID. It is determined whether the data access device 3 is included.

 If the data access device 3 is not included in the search process, the profile information operation program 30 performs the processing from step 106 (S106) to step 120 (S120).

 On the other hand, if the data access device 3 is included by performing the search process, the profile information operation program 30 performs the processes in step 122 (S 122) to step 132 (S 132).

 Hereinafter, the processing of each step will be described.

[0149] In step 106 (S106) shown in FIG. 15B, the data access device 3 that has received the search request is sent to the data access device 3 associated with the data access device ID derived in step 104 (S104). Then, specify the path received in step 100 (S100) and request a search for profile information (Figs. 3 and 5).

 In step 108 (S108), the policy server 16 is inquired whether or not the client PC 2 that issued the search request can access the data access device 3.

 In step 110 (S110), the policy server 16 checks whether access is possible, and transmits it to the data access device 3 requested to be searched in step 106 (S106).

[0150] In step 112 (S112), the data access device 3 requested to be searched in step 106 (S106) receives the execution service included in the profile specification information (Fig. 5) searched in step 104 (S104). Read information.

 Further, the data access device 3 requested to search in step 106 (S 106) requests the service execution device 18 to execute the service based on the read execution service information.

[0151] It should be noted that the profile information operation program 30 may or may not perform the service execution in step 112 (S112) before or after searching for profile information. The same applies to the service execution following the storage and deletion of profile information. After the service execution device 18 appropriately executes the service (step 114 (S114)), the search is requested in step 106 (S106). The data access device 3 searches the profile information DB 306 and the like for profile information (FIGS. 3 and 5) (step 116 (S116)). The data access device 3 requested to search in step 106 (S106) searches the profile information (FIGS. 3 and 5), and then uses the retrieved profile information to receive the search request from the client PC 2. (Step 118 (S 118)).

FIG. 19 illustrates operations that are performed simultaneously when the data access device 3 retrieves profile information from another data access device 3 in response to a request from the client PC 2 shown in FIG. 15A. It is a sequence diagram.

 As shown in FIG. 19, the profile file information (step 116 (S 116)) retrieved from another data access device 3 that has received a path specification is transmitted to the data access device 3 and profile information It can be stored as cache data in the cache DB 304 (step 118 (S118)).

 By such processing, the profile information can be searched for in the data access device 3 without searching for the profile information for another data access device 3.

FIG. 20 is a sequence diagram illustrating a process in which the data access device 3 shown in FIG. 15A searches for profile information for another data access device 3.

 As shown in FIG. 19, in step 118 (S 118, FIG. 19), once the profile information is retrieved, it is stored in the profile information cache DB 304 as cache data.

Therefore, the data access device 3 searches the profile information stored in the profile information cache DB 304 before specifying a path to another data access device 3 (step 106 (S106))! /, (Step 116-1 (S116-1)) After the profile information is obtained, the obtained profile information is stored in the data access device 3 (Step 118-1 (S118-1)) ₀

[0154] Desired profile information power S, not stored in profile information cache DB304 Only when the data access device 3 is not registered, a search is performed by specifying a path for another data access device 3 (step 106 106) to steps 116-2 116-2)). The other data access device 3 that has received the path specification transmits the obtained profile information to the data access device 3 after the profile information is obtained (step 118-2 (S118-2)) ₀

 By this processing, the data access device 3 can perform a search more efficiently.

[0155] Returning to Fig. 15B, the processing after step 120 (S120) will be described.

 The data access device 3 that has received the profile information in step 118 (S118) transmits the received profile information to the client PC 2 that requested the search (step 120 (S120)).

 After the client PC 2 receives the transmitted profile information, the profile information operation program 30 ends the physical profile information search process.

[0156] [Search physical profile information (2)]

 In step 122 (S122) shown in FIG. 15C, the data access device 3 inquires of the policy server 16 whether or not the client PC 2 that requested the search can access the data access device 3.

 In step 124 (S124), the policy server 16 checks whether access is possible and transmits it to the data access device 3.

In step 126 (S126), the data access device 3 reads the execution service information included in the profile specification information searched in step 104 (S104).

 Furthermore, the data access device 3 requests the service execution device 18 to execute a service based on the execution service information.

After the service execution device 18 appropriately executes the service (step 128 (S128)), the data access device 3 searches the profile information data access device 3 in step 130 (S130) from the profile information cache DB304 or the like. The transmitted profile information is transmitted to the client PC 2 that requested the search (step 132 (S 132)). After receiving the transmitted profile information, the profile information operation program 30 ends the physical profile information search process. [0158] [Search external profile information]

クライアント PC2から検索要求を受けた データアクセス装置 3は、検索要求を出したクライアント PC2から、ステップ 104 (S10 4、図 15A)でプロファイル情報の記憶位置と判断された外部プロファイル情報管理 装置 14に、アクセス可能か否かを、ポリシサーバ 16に問い合わせる。 Figure 1

The data access device 3 that has received the search request from the client PC 2 sends to the external profile information management device 14 that is determined as the storage location of the profile information in step 104 (S104, FIG. 15A) from the client PC 2 that has issued the search request. Queries the policy server 16 whether access is possible.

 In step 136 (S136), the policy server 16 checks whether access is possible and transmits it to the data access device 3.

In step 138 (S138), the data access device 3 reads the execution service information included in the profile specification information (FIG. 4) retrieved in step 104 (S104, FIG. 15A). Further, the data access device 3 Requests the service execution device 18 to execute the service based on the read execution service information.

After the service execution device 18 appropriately executes the service (step 140 (S 140)), the data access device 3 is the external profile information management device determined as the storage location of the profile information in step 104 (S104, FIG. 15A). Request profile information search on 14

 The external profile information management device 14 requested to search in step 142 (S 142) searches the profile information (FIGS. 3 and 5) from the profile file information DB 406 (step 144 (S144)).

 After retrieving the profile information, the external profile information management device 14 transmits the retrieved profile information to the data access device 3 in step 14 6 (S 146).

FIG. 21 exemplifies operations that are performed simultaneously when the data access device 3 searches the external profile information management device 14 for profile information in response to a request from the client PC 2 shown in FIG. 15D. It is a sequence diagram.

As shown in FIG. 21, the search request from the data access device 3 is received (step 142 (S1 42)), and the profile file information searched from the external profile information management device 14 (step 144 (S144)) is the data Sent to access device 3 (step 146 (S 146)) Can be stored in the profile information cache DB 304.

 By this processing, the profile information can be searched for by the data access device 3 without searching the profile information with respect to the external profile information management device 14.

FIG. 22 shows that the data access device 3 shown in FIG.

4 is a sequence diagram illustrating a process of searching for profile information for 4. FIG.

 As shown in FIG. 22, as shown in step 146 (S146, FIG. 21), once the profile information is retrieved, it is stored in the profile information cache DB 304 of the data access device 3 as cache data.

[0162] Therefore, before requesting a search from the external profile information management device 14 (step 142 (step 142)), the data access device 3 first has its profile information cache.

After searching the profile information stored in DB304 (Step 144-1 (S 144 1)) and obtaining the profile information, the obtained profile information is stored in the data access device.

(Step 146-1 (S 146 _ 1)).

 The corresponding profile information is the profile information cache D of data access device 3.

Only when it is not stored in B304, the data access device 3 requests a search from the external profile information management device 14 (step 142 (S142)), and the external profile information management device 14 sends a request to the profile information DB 306. (Step 144—2 (S 1

44 2)).

 After obtaining the profile information, the external profile information management device 14 transmits the obtained profile information to the data access device 3 (step 146-2 (S146-2)). By this processing, the data access device 3 can perform a search more efficiently.

Hereinafter, returning to FIG. 15D, the processing after step 148 (S 148) will be described.

 After receiving the profile information transmitted in step 146 (S 146), the data access device 3 transmits the profile information to the client PC 2 that requested the search (step 148 (S148)). After the client PC 2 receives the transmitted profile information, the profile information operation program 30 ends the external profile information search process.

[0164] [Search logical profile information]

As shown in FIG. 15E, in step 150 (S150), the data access device 3 performs the search. The requesting client PC 2 makes an inquiry to the policy server 16 as to whether or not the access is possible to the data access device 3 and the external profile information management device 14 determined as the storage location of the profile information in step 104 (SI 04).

 In step 152 (S152), the policy server 16 checks whether access is possible and transmits it to the data access device 3.

In step 154 (S154), the data access device 3 reads the execution service information included in the profile specification information (FIG. 4) retrieved in step 104 (S104).

 Furthermore, the data access device 3 requests the service execution device 18 to execute a service based on the read execution service information.

[0166] After the service execution device 18 appropriately executes the service (step 154 (S 154)), the data access device 3 and the external profile information management device 14 have the profile information DB 306 power, profile information (Fig. 3 and FIG. 5) are searched (step 158 (S 158)). In step 160 (SI 60), the data access device 3 and the external profile information management device 14 transmit the profile information retrieved in step 158 (S 158) to the data access device 3.

 The data access device 3 receives the profile information searched in step 158 (S 158) and transmits it to the client PC 2 that requested the search (step 162 (S 162)).

 After the client PC 2 receives the transmitted profile information, the profile information operation program 30 ends the logical profile information search process.

[0168] [Storing profile information]

 23A to 23E are second communication sequence diagrams illustrating the overall operation (S20) of the network system 1 shown in FIG.

 FIG. 23A to FIG. 23E show processing when a profile information operation program 30 is started when a profile information storage request is issued from the client PC 2 to the data access device 3.

 [0169] In step 200 (S200) shown in FIG. 23A, the client PC 2 executes the data access device.

For 3, specify the path and profile information and request storage of profile information. In step 202 (S202) shown in FIG. 23B, the data access device 3 that has received the search request from the client PC 2 specifies the path and profile information for the data access device 3 that was set as the storage location in step 104 (S104). Request storage of profile information

Yes

 In step 204 (S204), the data access device 3 confirms whether the precondition for storing the profile information power S and profile information specified in step 200 (S200) is satisfied.

 After confirming the agreement of the preconditions, the data access device 3 stores the profile information in all the data access devices 3 determined as the storage location of the profile information in step 104 (S104) in step 206 (S206). Send a request.

 [0170] The data access device 3 that received the storage request in step 206 (S206) and stored the profile information transmits the success or failure of the storage to the data access device 3 that received the storage request from the client PC 2 (step 208). (S208)).

 The data access device 3 that has received the storage request from the client PC 2 transmits the success or failure of the transmitted storage to the client PC 2 that issued the storage request (step 210 (S210)). After the client PC 2 receives the success / failure of storage, the profile information operation program 30 ends the physical profile information storage process.

 [0171] If there are a plurality of data access devices 3 determined as storage locations in step 104 (S104), the processing in step 108 (S108) (accessibility inquiry), the processing in step 110 (S110) ( Accessability), processing at step 112 (SI 12) (service execution request), processing at step 114 (S 114) (service execution), and processing at step 204 (S204) (prerequisite check) , It only needs to be done for one of them.

Similarly, in FIG. 23C, the process in step 122 (S122) (accessibility inquiry), the process in step 123 (S123) (accessibility), the process in step 126 (S126) (service execution request), The processing in step 128 (S 128) (service execution) and the processing in step 212 (S212) (confirmation of preconditions) need only be performed for one of them. Similarly, in FIG. 23D, when there are a plurality of data access devices 3 determined to be storage locations, the processing in step 134 (S 134) (inquiry of accessibility), step; 136 (S136) The processing (accessibility) in step 138 (S138) processing (service execution request), the processing in step 140 (S140) (service execution), and the processing in step 218 (S218) (prerequisite check) are It may be performed only for one unit (hereinafter, the same applies when deleting profile information).

 The data access device 3 confirms the preconditions in step 218 (S218), and then requests the external profile information management device 14 to store the profile information in step 220 (S220).

Similarly, in FIG. 23E, when there are a plurality of data access devices 3 determined to be storage locations, the processing in step 150 (S 150) (inquiry about accessibility), in step 152 (S152) Processing (accessibility), processing in step 154 (S154) (service execution request), processing in step 156 (S 156) (service execution), and processing in step 228 (S228) (prerequisite check) are It may be performed only for one unit (hereinafter, the same applies when deleting profile information).

 FIG. 23E shows an example in which service execution is requested only from the data access device 3 (step 154 (S 154)), and the precondition is confirmed only in the data access device 3 (step 228 (S228)).

[0174] [Delete profile information]

 24A to 24E are third communication sequence diagrams illustrating the overall operation (S30) of the network system 1 shown in FIG.

 24A to 24E show processing when the profile information operation program 30 is started when the client PC 2 requests the data access device 3 to delete the profile specification information.

 [0175] As shown in FIG. 24A, in step 100 (S100), the client PC 2 requests the data access device 3 to delete the profile information (FIGS. 3 and 5) by specifying a path. .

At this time, the client PC 2 deletes the profile to be deleted from the data access device 3. Aisle information can be specified.

 In step 204 (S204) shown in FIG. 24B, the data access device 3, if there is profile information specified in step 200 (S200), as in step 204 (S204) shown in FIG. 23A. Check if the prerequisites for deleting profile information are met! /.

 After confirming that the preconditions are met in step 204 (S204), the data access device 3 determines in step 300 (S300) that the storage location of the profile information is determined in step 104 (S104). Make a request to delete profile information to all.

 [0176] After the data access device 3 that has received the deletion request from the client PC 2 transmits the deletion success / failure to the client PC 2, the profile information operation program 30 ends the physical profile information deletion processing.

 Similarly to step 204 (S204), step 212 (S212) shown in FIG. 24C, step 218 (S218) shown in FIG. 24D, and step 228 (S228) shown in FIG. Check whether the preconditions for deleting are consistent.

 In FIG. 24D, after confirming the preconditions in step 218 (S218), the data access device 3 requests the external profile management device 14 to delete the profile information in step 304 (S304).

 Similarly to step 300 (S300), step 302 (S302) shown in FIG. 24C, step 306 (S306) shown in FIG. 24D, and step 308 (S308) shown in FIG. Is transmitted to the client PC 2 that requested the deletion, and then the profile information operation program 30 ends the deletion process.

[0177] As described above, the search system, which is effective in the present invention, stores information to be searched (profile information) and information for searching for the information (profile specification information) separately, to manage.

 As a result, the search system that is effective in the present invention can ensure the redundancy of the system and can distribute the load of the nodes constituting the system.

[0178] Further, in the search system that is effective in the present invention, when searching for information, a key filter and By using identifiers via a key hash table, the complexity associated with managing identifiers can be reduced, and nodes holding information can be distributed appropriately.

 Furthermore, by using the key hash table, it is possible to minimize data changes by changing the key hash table when changing the node.

Industrial applicability

 The present invention is applicable to an information search system and method for searching for information.

Claims

The scope of the claims  [1] A search system that includes one or more first nodes and one or more second nodes, and searches for target information stored in the one or more second nodes and serving as a search target. Each of the one or more first nodes indicates a storage location of the target information stored in the one or more second nodes with respect to the one or more second nodes. Specify a specification information identifier that identifies the specification information, request a search for the target information,  Each of the one or more second nodes is  First specification information storage means for storing the specification information identifier and the specification information in association with each other;  Objective information storage means for storing each of the objective information in a storage location indicated by the specification information;  First search means for searching for specification information identified by the specified specification information identifier in response to a search request from the first node;  From the storage location indicated by the specification information obtained as a result of the search, the stored purpose information is searched, the searched target information is read out,  Data transmitting means for transmitting to the first node;  Have  Search system.  [2] second specification information storage means for storing the specification information identifier and the specification information in association with each other;  Second search means for searching and returning the specification information identified by the specified specification information identifier in response to a search request from the one or more second nodes;  A third node with  A search system further comprising:  In each of the one or more second nodes, The first search means stores the specification information identified by the designated specification information identifier in the third node, except when the specification information is stored in the first specification information storage means. In response to the search for the specified specification information, In response to the search request, the data transmission means reads the stored purpose information from the second node indicated by the storage location of the specification information returned from the third node, and Send to node 1  The search system according to claim 1. [3] The specification information is  Storage location information indicating the storage location of the objective information associated with the objective information identifier;  Including  The storage location information is  A function for generating an arbitrary range of values from a part of the purpose information identifier;  An association table associating the generated value with a value for identifying the second node; and  Storage location information included in the specification information obtained as a result of the search by the second search means is indicated by the function and the correspondence table.  The search system according to claim 2. [4] The memory location is  A part of the purpose information identifier is substituted into the function,  A value that identifies the second node to be associated with the value generated as a result of the substitution is acquired in the correspondence table,  The search system according to claim 3, wherein the search system is indicated as the second node associated with the acquired identifying value. [5] The objective information identifier and the objective information are stored in association with each other  4th node  A search system further comprising:  In each of the one or more second nodes,  In response to the search request, the data transmission means has a storage location indicated by storage location information included in the specification information returned from the second node or the third node. Indicates the stored memory from the indicated fourth node. Corrected form (Rule 91) Read the target information sent to the first node,  When the storage location indicated by the storage location information included in the specification information returned from the second node or the third node indicates the second node and the fourth node, Read the stored purpose information from the indicated second node and fourth node and send to the first node  The search system according to claim 2. [6] When each of the one or more first nodes requests storage of the specified purpose information by specifying the specification information identifier and the purpose information to be stored,  In the second node, the data transmission means is  The designated purpose information is stored in all nodes indicated by the storage location indicated by the storage location information included in the specification information obtained as a result of the search,  When each of the one or more first nodes requests the deletion of the target information by specifying the specification information identifier,  In the second node, the data transmission means is  The read purpose information is deleted from all nodes indicated by the storage position indicated by the storage position information included in the specification information obtained as a result of the search.  The search system according to claim 1 or 2. [7] The specification information further includes execution service information,  In the second node, the data transmission means executes the service execution before and after reading the retrieved purpose information and storing and deleting the retrieved purpose information based on the contents of the execution service information. Make a request  The search system according to claim 6. [8] Specify one or more specification information identifiers for identifying the specification information stored in the third node, respectively, and request one or more fifth search by the third search means for the specification information. The node  A search system further comprising:  The third node has means for transmitting the specification information obtained by the third search means to a fifth node; Corrected paper (¾ Rule 91) The fifth node is  Means for reading the transmitted specification information;  Means for adding a value for identifying the second node and a value associated therewith to the table included in the read specification information;  Means for deleting a value identifying the second node and a value associated therewith with respect to the table included in the read specification information;  Means for changing a combination of a value for identifying the second node and a value associated with the table included in the read specification information;  Means for transmitting said added, deleted and modified tables to said third node;  Have  The third node has means for storing the table  The search system according to claim 3.  In a system including one or more first nodes, one or more second nodes, and a third node,  Each force of the first node causes the second node to search for the purpose information stored in the one or more second nodes and identified by the purpose information identifier;  In order to retrieve the purpose information, each of the second nodes retrieves specification information stored in the second node or the third node and identified by a specification information identifier.  A search method,  The specification information includes: (1) storage location information indicating a storage location of the objective information associated with the objective information identifier;  Including  The purpose information is associated with the specification information and stored in a node indicated by the storage position information.  The storage location information is Corrected form (Rule 91) A function for generating an arbitrary range of values from a part of the purpose information identifier;  A correspondence table associating the generated value with a value for identifying the second node;  The search method is:  A first search step in which the second node searches for the specification information associated with the specified specification information identifier using the specification information identifier specified by the first node; ,  A second search step of causing the second node to search for the target information from a node indicated by the storage location information based on the searched specification information;  Search method including  In a system comprising one or more first nodes, one or more second nodes each containing a computer, and one or more third nodes,  Each of the second nodes is requested by each of the first nodes to search for the purpose information stored in the one or more second nodes and identified by a purpose information identifier,  Each of the second nodes requested to search for the target information searches the specification information stored in the second node or the third node and identified by a specification information identifier, and the searched specification Based on the information, the target information identified by the purpose information identifier is retrieved from the one or more second nodes. A search program,  The specification information is  A storage location indicating a storage location of the purpose information associated with the purpose information identifier  Including  The purpose information is associated with the specification information and stored in a node indicated by the storage position information.  The storage location information is A function for generating an arbitrary range of values from a part of the purpose information identifier; A correspondence table associating the generated value with a value for identifying the second node;  A first search step in which the specification information identifier is specified and the second node searches for the specification information associated with the specified specification information identifier; and based on the searched specification information A second search step in which the second node searches for the target information from a node indicated by the storage location information;  A search program for causing the computer of the second node to execute.