Recording control apparatus and recording control method

First deficiency information according to a deficiency period of time-series data in a first recording unit among plural recording units and second deficiency information according to a deficiency period of time-series data in a second recording unit are obtained. Then, it is controlled to combine electronic data of a non-deficient period in the first recording unit and electronic data of a non-deficient period in the second recording unit with each other and record the combined electronic data, based on the obtained first deficiency information and the obtained second deficiency information.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a recording control apparatus and a recording control method which record time-series electronic data (or time-series data), a program which is used to cause a computer to perform the recording control method, and a computer-readable storage medium which has stored therein the program.

2. Description of the Related Art

Conventionally, as a method of improving maintainability of electronic data recorded, a method of storing electronic data in a redundant-constitution storage medium such as a RAID {Redundant Arrays of Inexpensive (or Independent) Disks} or the like and a method of copying (duplicating) electronic data in another storage medium have been generally used. Moreover, as a method of reducing the capacity of electronic data recorded on a storage medium, a method of searching for redundant fillies of the same content and deleting them has been generally used (for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-338461).

However, in the conventional method of storing the electronic data on the redundant-constitution storage medium, if an error is included in the electronic data due to concentration of various loads or the like in the process of generation of the electronic data to be recorded, the error is resultingly included in the electronic data stored on each of the redundant-constitution storage media. In this case, only by setting the storage medium of one recording apparatus to have the redundant constitution, it is impossible to obtain sufficient maintainability of the electronic data. For this reason, in order to improve maintainability in a system of recording electronic data such as video data and the like, the system itself is constituted by achieving redundancy by providing plural recording apparatuses themselves.

However, in such a case, there is a possibility that the electronic data of the respective recording apparatuses include errors in mutually different periods. For this reason, since each recording apparatus has to hold all the electronic data, there is a problem that a capacity which is necessary for the recording medium of each recording apparatus has to be large.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been completed in consideration of the above-described related art, and aims to secure maintainability of electronic data and also achieve reduction of a capacity necessary for a storage medium to which the electronic data is copied.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording control apparatus which controls recording of time-series data transmitted from a transmission apparatus to plural recording units, the recording control apparatus comprising: an obtaining unit configured to obtain first deficiency information according to a deficiency period of the time-series data in a first recording unit, and second deficiency information according to a deficiency period of the time-series data in a second recording unit; and a recording control unit configured to control to combine data of a non-deficient period in the first recording unit and data of a non-deficient period in the second recording unit with each other and record the combined data, based on the first deficiency information and the second deficiency information obtained by the obtaining unit.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. Here, it should be noted that, in each of the following embodiments, a video recording apparatus is applied as an example of a recording apparatus according to the present invention.

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

FIG. 1is a block diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of an electronic data recording system100according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

InFIG. 1, the electronic data recording system100includes a network camera110, video recording apparatuses120, a storage apparatus130, a network140, and a reproducing apparatus150.

The network camera110is the delivery apparatus which generates video data or the like as time-series electronic data, and delivers the generated video data or the like to the network140. In the electronic data recording system100, at least one network camera110is provided, but plural network cameras may be provided. Here, the network camera110may generate, as the time-series electronic data, audio data, detection data transferred by a sensor such as a temperature indicator or the like, and the like in addition to the video data, and may deliver the generated data to the network140.

Each of the video recording apparatuses120records the video data (time-series electronic data) delivered from the network camera110through the network140. In the electronic data recording system100illustrated inFIG. 1, the plural video recording apparatuses are provided. More specifically, in the electronic data recording system100, two video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2are provided as the plural video recording apparatuses120. However, three or more video recording apparatuses may be provided.

The storage apparatus130is the storage apparatus (storage medium) in which various kinds of data and the like are stored.

The storage apparatus130may be the storage apparatus such as “Network_Attached_Storage” or the like which is connected to the network140. Alternatively, the storage apparatus130may be the storage apparatus which is connected to the video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2in the network140such as “Storage_Area_Network” or the like. Further, the storage apparatus130may be the storage apparatus such as a tape, a hard disk, an optical disk or the like which is provided in the video recording apparatus120-1or120-2.

The network140communicably connects the network camera110, the video recording apparatuses120and the storage apparatus130with others. Here, it should be noted that the network140need not necessarily be a single network. For example, the network140may includes independently a network for connecting the network camera110and the video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2with others and a network for connecting the storage apparatus130and the video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2with others.

The reproducing apparatus150is the apparatus which reproduces and displays the video data stored in the storage apparatus130. More specifically, the reproducing apparatus150is constituted by a display unit for displaying the video data, and a general personal computer such as a processor or the like for causing the display unit to display the video data.

FIG. 2is a block diagram illustrating an example of the internal constitution of the video recording apparatus120illustrated inFIG. 1.

As illustrated inFIG. 2, the video recording apparatus120illustrated inFIG. 1is constituted by a communication unit121, a control processing unit122, a built-in clock123, a recording unit124, and a temporary recording unit125.

More specifically, the communication unit121performs communication with another apparatus (external apparatus) through the network140, under the control of the control processing unit122.

The control processing unit122wholly controls the video recording apparatus120, and performs arithmetic operations. For example, the control processing unit122is constituted by a CPU (central processing unit) or the like.

The built-in clock123, which is provided inside the video recording apparatus120, performs time of day control. For example, the built-in clock123performs synchronization by communicating with the other video recording apparatus120or a not-illustrated NTP (network time protocol) server through the communication unit121. In this regard, the built-in clock123may set the time by, for example, receiving a standard frequency broadcast through the communication unit121. In any case, in the electronic data recording system100according to the present embodiment, the times respectively indicated by the built-in clocks123in the video recording apparatuses120(i.e., the video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2) are the same.

The recording unit124records various data, various information and the like. For example, the recording unit124is constituted by a hard disk, an optical disk, a memory card or the like.

The temporary recording unit125temporarily stores various programs, various data and the like. For example, the temporary recording unit125is constituted by a RAM (random access memory) or the like.

FIG. 3is a diagram illustrating an example of deficiency result information300recorded in the recording unit124illustrated inFIG. 2.

The video recording period list in the deficiency result information300illustrated inFIG. 3includes the items respectively indicating start time and end time, and thus indicates that a deficiency is included in the video data recorded during a period indicated by the start time and the end time in the respective items.

Subsequently, a process in which the video recording apparatuses120(the video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2) in the electronic data recording system100illustrated inFIG. 1record the video data which are electronic data will be described with reference toFIGS. 2 and 3.

Setting information (an address of the target network camera110, a schedule to be executed, a size of the video data, quality of the video data, and a frame rate of the video data) for the video data in the network camera110is obtained by the respective video recording apparatuses120and stored in the respective recording units124thereof. Here, the video recording apparatus120-1and the video recording apparatus120-2synchronize the contents of the setting information from the network camera110by mutually communicating with each other.

The control processing units122of the respective video recording apparatuses120read the setting information recorded in the recording units124of the respective video recording apparatuses120, and thus generate video obtaining commands for the network camera110. Subsequently, the respective control processing units122transmit the generated video obtaining commands to the network camera110through the respective communication units121, obtain the video data from the network camera110, and then store the obtained video data in the respective temporary recording units125. After then, the respective control processing units122add, to the video data stored in the respective temporary recording units125, the time information of the respective built-in clocks123, the time information added to the obtained respective video data, or the time information calculated from the time information of the respective built-in clocks123and the time information added to the obtained respective video data, and subsequently record and store the video data and the time information in the respective recording units124.

Further, the respective control processing units122analyze the video data recorded in the respective recording units124, judge differences between the video data and the settings of the setting information concerning the obtaining of the video data, obtain the deficiency result information300from the judged results and the results of the recording processes, and then store the obtained information in the respective recording units124. Here, the target to be compared based on the analysis of the video data may be any one of the information concerning presence/absence of the video data, the information concerning the frame rate, the information concerning the size of the video data, and the information concerning the quality of the video data, or may be a combination of these information.

In other words, each of the video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2receives the video data from the network camera110, records the received video data in the recording unit124, generates the deficiency result information300based on the recorded video data, and records the generated deficiency result information300in the recording unit124. In this regard, in a case where each of the video recording apparatuses120records the video data from the plural network cameras110, the video recording apparatus120records the video data from each of the network cameras, generates the deficiency result information300corresponding to each video data recorded, and records the generated deficiency result information300in the recording unit124.

Subsequently, in the electronic data recording system100illustrated inFIG. 1, a process of backing up the video data recorded in the video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2to the storage apparatus130will be described with reference toFIGS. 4 to 6.

FIG. 4is a flow chart indicating an example of an electronic data recording process to be performed by the video recording apparatus120illustrated inFIG. 1. The electronic data recording process (i.e., a backup process) illustrated inFIG. 4is performed when either one of the video recording apparatus120-1and the video recording apparatus120-2acts as a host apparatus. More specifically, the backup process is performed by the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which acts as the host apparatus.

FIG. 5is a diagram illustrating an example of extraction information500generated in the electronic data recording process illustrated inFIG. 4, andFIG. 6is a diagram illustrating an example of reproduction order information600generated in the electronic data recording process illustrated inFIG. 4.

Before the process illustrated inFIG. 4is started, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120performs a process of inspecting whether or not there is a deficiency of the electronic data recorded in the own apparatus and then generating deficiency result information (e.g., the deficiency result information300illustrated inFIG. 3) concerning a period of the deficiency of the relevant electronic data. More specifically, in the process of judging whether or not there is the deficiency of the electronic data, the control processing unit122holds and refers to history information concerning whether or not the connection between the network camera100and the video recording apparatus120is established, and judges a time when a connection error occurs as the deficiency of the electronic data. Moreover, as a method of judging the deficiency of the electronic data, the control processing unit122adopts a method of detecting a time when a frame rate of the electronic data (video data) previously set in the video recording apparatus is different from the frame rate actually received, and judging the detected time as the deficiency of the electronic data. In any case, the control processing unit122which performs the process of generating the deficiency result information constitutes a deficiency result information generation means.

In a case where an operation instruction is issued from a user or in a case where a time set for execution of the schedule comes, the video recording apparatus120(the video recording apparatus120-1or the video recording apparatus120-2) performs the process illustrated inFIG. 4if, for example, the status of the relevant video recording apparatus satisfies a certain condition. In any case, the range of the electronic data (for example, the video data) which is the target of the backup process is represented by a time range based on the recording time of the electronic data, and designated by the user, a relative time based on the schedule, or a difference from the previous-time backup.

Initially, in a step S401ofFIG. 4, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120(for example, the video recording apparatus120-1) which performs the backup process reads the deficiency result information300from the recording unit124in the own apparatus. Further, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process obtains and reads, from the other video recording apparatus (for example, the video recording apparatus120-2) which performs the same operation, the deficiency result information300of the other video recording apparatus. That is, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process collects the deficiency result information300of the own apparatus, and at the same time collects through the network140the deficiency result information300of the other video recording apparatus120which performs the same operation. The control processing unit122which performs the process in the step S401constitutes a deficiency result information collecting means.

Subsequently, in a step S402, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of generating the extraction information based on the deficiency result information300read in the step S401. More specifically, in the step S402, as illustrated inFIG. 5, the extraction information500which includes the information of the start time and the end time of extracting the recorded electronic data (video data) and the information indicating an video recording apparatus ID uniquely identifying the video recording apparatus which performs the recording is generated. Here, in the video recording apparatus ID illustrated inFIG. 5, a symbol SS1 indicates a first video recording apparatus which is selected from the plural video recording apparatuses, that is, the video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2, and a symbol SS2 indicates a second video recording apparatus (the other video recording apparatus) which is not selected. The control processing unit122which performs the process in the step S402constitutes an extraction information generation means. In any case, the detailed process in the step S402will be described later.

Subsequently, in a step S403, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs the backup process (a duplication process) of the electronic data recorded in each video recording apparatus, based on the extraction information generated in the step S402. More specifically, in a case where the own apparatus is present in the video recording apparatus ID included in the extraction information, the relevant control processing unit122extracts the electronic data in the period from the designated start time to the designated end time recorded in the recording unit124of the own apparatus, and stores the extracted electronic data in the storage apparatus130. Further, in a case where the other apparatus is present in the video recording apparatus ID included in the extraction information, the relevant control processing unit122issues, to the other video recording apparatus, an instruction to extract the electronic data from the designated start time to the designated end time recorded in the relevant recording unit124and store the extracted electronic data in the storage apparatus130. In this case, the relevant control processing unit122issues the above-described instruction to the control processing unit122of the other video recording apparatus. That is, on the basis of the extraction information, the relevant control processing unit122extracts the electronic data in the period which does not include the period of deficiency from the electronic data recorded in each video recording apparatus120, and performs the backup process (the duplication process) of the extracted electronic data (extraction data). The control processing unit122which performs the process in the step S403constitutes a duplication processing means.

Subsequently, in a step S404, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of generating the reproduction order information on the basis of the extraction information and the results of the storage of the respective electronic data in the storage apparatus130. As illustrated inFIG. 6, the reproduction order information600generated in the step S404includes the information indicating the start time and the end time, the information indicating the file name, and the information indicating the file reading position, so as to access the electronic data stored in the storage apparatus130in a time series manner. The reading position illustrated inFIG. 6indicates a capacity (bytes) from the head of the file. Further, the respective electronic data (the respective extraction data) indicated by the reproduction order information600are sequentially switched and reproduced for each period from the start time to the end time. Furthermore, the reproduction order information600generated in the step S404is stored in the storage apparatus130. That is, the relevant control processing unit122performs a process of generating, for example, the reproduction order information illustrated inFIG. 6which indicates the time-series relations of the plural electronic data duplicated in the storage apparatus130, on the basis of the extraction information, the results of the duplication of the electronic data (the extraction data) in the step S403, and the like. The control processing122which performs the process in the step S404constitutes a reproduction order information generation means.

Incidentally, in a case where each of the video recording apparatuses120records the video data transmitted from the plural network cameras110and backs up the recorded video data, the processes in the above-described steps S401to S404are performed for the video data of each of the network cameras110. In this regard, it is possible in the step S401to generate the deficiency result information by analyzing the electronic data recorded in each of the video recording apparatuses for each process and collect the generated deficiency result information. Further, in case of causing each of the video recording apparatuses to generate the deficiency result information, it is unnecessary to generate and record the deficiency result information in the video recording process of each of the video recording apparatuses.

Subsequently, in the first embodiment of the present invention, the extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4and the reproduction order information generating process in the step S404ofFIG. 4will be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 7 to 11.

First, the extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4will be described in detail.

FIG. 7, indicating the first embodiment of the present invention, is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a result of the extraction information in the electronic data recording system100illustrated inFIG. 1.

InFIG. 7, the axis of abscissas indicates a video recording time. More specifically, inFIG. 7, after the backup process in the step S403, the electronic data (video data) which are recorded respectively in the first video recording apparatus, the second video recording apparatus and the storage apparatus130are indicated as respective bars.

In the first video recording apparatus, the electronic data in the time zones indicated by zones701and703are the normal electronic data, and the electronic data in the time zone indicated by a zone702is the electronic data including deficiency. In the second video recording apparatus, the electronic data in the time zones indicated by zones704and706are the normal electronic data, and the electronic data in the time zone indicated by a zone705is the electronic data including deficiency.

In the storage apparatus130, the electronic data indicated by zones707,708and709are respectively the same as the electronic data indicated by the zones701,702and703and recorded in the first video recording apparatus. Under the circumstances, in regard to the electronic data in the time zone indicated by the zone708including the deficiency, electronic data710which is obtained by extracting the electronic data (706a) in the corresponding time zone from the second video recording apparatus is recorded in the storage apparatus130.

FIG. 8, indicating the first embodiment of the present invention, is a flow chart indicating an example of a detailed process of the extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4.

In the process of the step S402illustrated inFIG. 4, initially, in a step S801ofFIG. 8, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process selects the first video recording apparatus (a first recording apparatus) from the plural video recording apparatuses120which perform the same operation. In the present embodiment, the first video recording apparatus is selected from the video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2which are equivalent to the plural video recording apparatuses120which perform the same operation.

More specifically, the following aspects are conceivable as the process of selecting the first video recording apparatus in the step S801.

According to the first aspect, from the plural video recording apparatuses120which perform the same operation, the video recording apparatus in which the period including the deficiency is shortest in the period of the backup process is selected as the first video recording apparatus.

According to the second aspect, from the plural video recording apparatuses120which perform the same operation, the video recording apparatus in which the number of the periods respectively including the deficiencies is least in the period of the backup process is selected as the first video recording apparatus.

According to the third aspect, from the plural video recording apparatuses120which perform the same operation, the video recording apparatus in which the interval from the start time of the period of the backup process to the period including the deficiency is longest is selected as the first video recording apparatus.

According to the fourth aspect, from the plural video recording apparatuses120which perform the same operation, the video recording apparatus in which a load to the storage apparatus130consisting of a storage such as a hard disk or the like is least is selected as the first video recording apparatus.

According to the fifth aspect, from the plural video recording apparatuses120which perform the same operation, the video recording apparatus in which a load to the relevant video recording apparatus is least is selected as the first video recording apparatus. Here, as the load in case of selecting the first video recording apparatus, for example, it is possible to apply a load to CPU utilization concerning the control processing unit122, a load to memory utilization concerning the recording unit, a load due to a used band of the network, or a combination of these loads. Further, as the load in case of selecting the first video recording apparatus, for example, it is possible to use a load which is measured from a state of reading or writing from or to the recording unit124of recording the electronic data.

Subsequently, in a step S802, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of adding, as the extraction information, information for specifying the electronic data recorded in the first video recording apparatus selected in the step S801. More specifically, the information from the start time to the end time of the time zone of the electronic data to be subjected to the backup process, and the information (video recording apparatus ID) for specifying the first video recording apparatus selected in the step S801are added as the extraction information.

Subsequently, in a step S803, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process sequentially performs the process for each deficiency period included in the time zone of the backup process, based on the deficiency result information in the first video recording apparatus selected in the step S801.

Subsequently, in a step S804, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process judges whether or not another video recording apparatus which records the electronic data not including deficiency exists in the deficiency period in which the process by the first video recording apparatus is performed.

If it is judged in the step S804that another video recording apparatus which records the electronic data not including deficiency exists (YES in the step S804), the flow advances to a step S805. In the step S805, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of adding, as the extraction information, information for specifying the electronic data recorded in the relevant another video recording apparatus judged in the step S804. More specifically, the information from the start time to the end time in the deficiency period in which the process is performed, and the information (video recording apparatus ID) for specifying the relevant another video recording apparatus judged in the step S804are added as the extraction information.

If the process in the step S805ends, or if it is judged in the step S804that another video recording apparatus which records the electronic data not including deficiency does not exist (NO in the step S804), the flow advances to a step S806. In the step S806, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process judges whether or not the process is performed for all of the deficiency periods based on the deficiency result information of the first video recording apparatus, included in the time zone of the backup process.

Then, if it is judged in the step S806that the process is not performed for all of the deficiency periods, that is, if the deficiency result information which is not processed yet exists (NO in the step S806), the flow returns to the step S803. Thus, the processes in the step S803and the following steps are performed again.

On the other hand, if it is judged in the step S806that the process is performed for all of the deficiency periods (YES in the step S806), the process in this flow chart ends.

In any case, the extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4is performed through the above-described processes in the steps S801to S806.

FIG. 9is a diagram illustrating an example of extraction information900generated in the process of the flow chart illustrated inFIG. 8. Here, the period of the backup process is equivalent to a day from 0 o'clock Nov. 19, 2007 to 0 o'clock Nov. 20, 2007. In the extraction information900illustrated inFIG. 9, the video recording apparatus specified by SS1 is selected as the first video recording apparatus. Moreover, in the extraction information900illustrated inFIG. 9, in regard to the first video recording apparatus specified by SS1, the two periods each of which includes a deficiency exist in the period of the backup process. In these periods, it is set to extract the electronic data from the second video recording apparatus specified by SS2.

Subsequently, the reproduction order information generating process in the step S404ofFIG. 4will be described in detail.

FIG. 10, indicating the first embodiment of the present invention, is a flow chart indicating an example of a detailed process of the reproduction order information generating process in the step S404ofFIG. 4.

In the reproduction order information generating process in the step S404ofFIG. 4, initially in a step S1001ofFIG. 10, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of setting a process start time (TS) as the start time of the backup process.

Subsequently, in a step S1002, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of setting a file name of the electronic data including video recording at the time TS as “F”.

Subsequently, in a step S1003, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process judges whether or not the electronic data “F” set in the step S1002is the electronic data recorded in the first video recording apparatus selected in the above-described extraction information generation process.

If it is judged in the step S1003that the electronic data “F” set in the step S1002is the electronic data recorded in the first video recording apparatus (YES in the step S1003), the flow advances to a step S1004. In the step S1004, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of setting a file of the electronic data of which the start time is later than the time TS and closest to the time TS as a next file candidate (NF), and further performs a process of setting the end time (TE) of the relevant file as the start time of the next file candidate (NF).

On the other hand, if it is judged in the step S1003that the electronic data “F” set in the step S1002is not the electronic data recorded in the first video recording apparatus (NO in the step S1003), the flow advances to a step S1005. In the step S1005, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of setting the next file candidate (NF) as the file of the electronic data of the first video recording apparatus, and further performs a process of setting the end time (TE) of the relevant file as the end time of the deficiency period, in the deficiency result information of the first video recording apparatus, which is later than the time TS and closest to the time TS.

If the process in the step S1004or the step S1005ends, the flow advances to a step S1006. In the step S1006, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of adding the reproduction order information. More specifically, in this process, the position of the electronic data (video data) corresponding to the start time (TS) in the file F is calculated, the calculated result is set as the reading position, and a plurality of information indicating the start time (TS), the end time (TE) and the file name (F) is together added to the reproduction order information.

Subsequently, in a step S1007, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process judges whether or not the end time (TE) is the same as or later than the end time of the period of the backup process.

If it is judged in the step S1007that the end time (TE) is not the same as or later than the end time of the period of the backup process (NO in the step S1007), the flow advances to a step S1008. In the step S1008, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of setting the next file candidate (NF) as the file name (F) of the electronic data, and further performs a process of setting the end time (TE) as the process start time (TS). After then, the flow returns to the step S1003, and the processes in the step S1003and the following steps are performed again.

On the other hand, if it is judged in the step S1007that the end time (TE) is the same as or later than the end time of the period of the backup process (YES in the step S1007), the process in this flow chart ends.

In any case, the reproduction order information generating process in the step S404ofFIG. 4is performed through the above-described processes in the steps S1001to S1008. The generated reproduction order information is stored together with the video data in the storage apparatus130. Then, the reproducing apparatus150causes the display unit to display the video data by referring to the reproduction order information.

FIG. 11is a diagram illustrating an example of reproduction order information1100generated in the process of the flow chart illustrated inFIG. 10. Here, the period of the backup process is equivalent to a day from 0 o'clock Nov. 19, 2007 to 0 o'clock Nov. 20, 2007.

In the reproduction order information1100illustrated inFIG. 11, the file of the electronic data (video data) recorded in the first video recording apparatus is specified by “SS1—01.avi”, and the electronic data of the overall period of the backup process are extracted. Further, in the reproduction order information1100, the two periods respectively including deficiencies are set to refer to “SS2—01.avi” and “SS2—02.avi” which are the files of the electronic data (video data) recorded in the other video recording apparatus (that is, the second video recording apparatus). Furthermore, after the end of each deficiency period, in the file “SS1—01.avi” of the electronic data (video data) recorded in the first video recording apparatus, the reading position for reading the corresponding position is set in the reproduction order information1100. Incidentally, the reading position illustrated inFIG. 11indicates a capacity (bytes) from the head of the file.

Subsequently, the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The overall configuration of an electronic data recording system according to the second embodiment is the same as the overall configuration of the electronic data recording system100according to the first embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1. Further, the internal constitution of a video recording apparatus120according to the second embodiment is the same as the internal constitution of the video recording apparatus120according to the first embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2. Furthermore, a procedure in an electronic data recording process to be performed by the video recording apparatus120according to the second embodiment is the same as the procedure in the electronic data recording process to be performed by the video recording apparatus120according to the first embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4.

In the second embodiment, the points different from those in the above-described first embodiment will be mainly described, and the descriptions of the points common to those in the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

Subsequently, in the second embodiment of the present invention, an extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4and a reproduction order information generating process in the step S404ofFIG. 4will be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 12,13and14andFIGS. 5 and 6.

Initially, the extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4will be described in detail.

FIG. 12, indicating the second embodiment of the present invention, is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a result of extraction information in the electronic data recording system100illustrated inFIG. 1.

InFIG. 12, the axis of abscissas indicates a video recording time. More specifically, inFIG. 12, after the backup process in the step S403, the electronic data (video data) which are recorded respectively in a first video recording apparatus, a second video recording apparatus and a storage apparatus130are indicated as respective bars.

In the first video recording apparatus, the electronic data in the time zones indicated by zones1201and1203are the normal electronic data, and the electronic data in the time zone indicated by a zone1202is the electronic data including deficiency. In the second video recording apparatus, the electronic data in the time zones indicated by zones1204and1206are the normal electronic data, and the electronic data in the time zone indicated by a zone1205is the electronic data including deficiency.

The electronic data indicated by a zone1207which is the same as the electronic data indicated by the zone1201and recorded in the first video recording apparatus is recorded in the storage apparatus130. Under the circumstances, in regard to the electronic data in and after the time zone indicated by the zone1202including the deficiency concerning the first video recording apparatus, electronic data1208which is obtained by extracting the electronic data (1206a) in the corresponding time zone from the second video recording apparatus is recorded in the storage apparatus130.

FIG. 13, indicating the second embodiment of the present invention, is a flow chart indicating an example of a detailed process of the extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4.

In the process of the step S402illustrated inFIG. 4, initially, in a step S1301ofFIG. 13, a control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of setting a process (extraction) start time (TS) as the start time of the backup process.

Subsequently, in a step S1302, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of selecting, from the plural video recording apparatuses120, the video recording apparatus in which the period after the process start time (TS) including deficiency is latest. That is, in the present embodiment, the video recording apparatus in which the interval from the start time (TS) to the period including the deficiency is longest is selected from video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2which constitute the plural video image recording apparatuses120which perform the same operation.

Subsequently, in a step S1303, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of setting an end time (TE) of the process (extraction) as the start time of the deficiency period in the first video recording apparatus selected in the step S1302.

Subsequently, in a step S1304, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of adding the information for specifying the electronic data recorded in the video recording apparatus selected in the step S1302, as the extraction information. More specifically, the information from the start time (TS) to the end time (TE) indicating the time zone of the electronic data to be subjected to the backup process, and the information (video recording apparatus ID) for specifying the video recording apparatus selected in the step S1302are added as the extraction information.

Subsequently, in a step S1305, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process judges whether or not the end time (TE) is the same as or later than the end time of the period of the backup process.

If it is judged in the step S1305that the end time (TE) is not the same as or later than the end time of the period of the backup process (NO in the step S1305), the flow advances to a step S1306. In the step S1306, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of setting the end time (TE) as the process start time (TS). After then, the flow returns to the step S1302, and the processes in the step S1302and the following steps are performed again.

As just described, in the first step S1302, the process of selecting, from the plural video recording apparatuses120, the video recording apparatus in which the interval from the start time of the period of the backup process to the deficiency period is longest is performed. After then, the processes in the steps S1302to S1306are repeatedly performed, whereby the video recording apparatus which is different from the relevant selected video recording apparatus and in which the interval from the start time of the deficiency period in the relevant selected video recording apparatus to the deficiency period in the own apparatus is longest is repeatedly selected subsequently.

On the other hand, if it is judged in the step S1305that the end time (TE) is the same as or later than the end time of the period of the backup process (YES in the step S1305), the process in this flow chart ends.

In any case, the extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4is performed through the above-described processes in the steps S1301to S1306.

Incidentally, the extraction information which is generated by the processes in the flow chart ofFIG. 13is equivalent to, for example, the extraction information500illustrated inFIG. 5.

In the example illustrated inFIG. 5, in regard to the video recording apparatus (that is, the first video recording apparatus) specified by SS1 of the video recording apparatus ID, the period from “2007/11/19 10:15:31.25” and the period from “2007/11/19 15:30:00.42” are the periods respectively having the electronic data including deficiencies. Further, in regard to the video recording apparatus (that is, the second video recording apparatus) specified by SS2 of the video recording apparatus ID, the period from “2007/11/19 13:21:56.33” is the period having the electronic data including deficiency. As just described, in the present embodiment, the video recording apparatus for extracting the electronic data is changed for each period having the electronic data including deficiency.

Subsequently, the reproduction order information generating process in the step S404ofFIG. 4will be described in detail.

FIG. 14, indicating the second embodiment of the present invention, is a flow chart indicating an example of a detailed process of the reproduction order information generating process in the step S404ofFIG. 4.

In the reproduction order information generating process in the step S404ofFIG. 4, initially in a step S1401ofFIG. 14, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process sequentially processes the extraction information generated in the process of the flow chart illustrated inFIG. 13.

Subsequently, in a step S1402, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process specifies the file name stored in the corresponding storage apparatus130from the information indicating the start time, the information indicating the end time and the information indicating the video recording apparatus ID, on the basis of the extraction information.

Subsequently, in a step S1403, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process calculates the position of the electronic data (video data) portion at the start time in the file of the file name specified in the step S1402. That is, the reading position of the relevant file is calculated in this step.

Subsequently, in a step S1404, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of adding the reproduction order information. More specifically, the start time and the end time respectively indicated by the extraction information, the file name specified in the step S1402, and the reading position calculated in the step S1403are together added to the reproduction order information.

Subsequently, in a step S1405, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process judges whether or not the process is performed for the overall extraction information.

Then, if it is judged in the step S1405that the process is not performed for the overall extraction information (NO in the step S1405), the flow returns to the step S1401. Thus, the processes in the step S1401and the following steps are performed again.

On the other hand, if it is judged in the step S1405that the process is performed for the overall extraction information (YES in the step S1405), the process in this flow chart ends.

In any case, the reproduction order information generating process in the step S404ofFIG. 4is performed through the above-described processes in the steps S1401to S1405. As well as the first embodiment, the generated reproduction order information is stored together with the video data in the storage apparatus130. Then, the reproducing apparatus150causes the display unit to display the video data by referring to the reproduction order information.

Incidentally, the reproduction order information which is generated by the processes in the flow chart ofFIG. 14is equivalent to, for example, the reproduction order information600illustrated inFIG. 6.

Subsequently, the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The overall configuration of an electronic data recording system according to the third embodiment is the same as the overall configuration of the electronic data recording system100according to the first embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1. Further, the internal constitution of a video recording apparatus120according to the third embodiment is the same as the internal constitution of the video recording apparatus120according to the first embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2. Furthermore, a procedure in an electronic data recording process to be performed by the video recording apparatus120according to the third embodiment is the same as the procedure in the electronic data recording process to be performed by the video recording apparatus120according to the first embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4.

In the third embodiment, the points different from those in the above-described first embodiment will be mainly described, and the descriptions of the points common to those in the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified. More specifically, in the third embodiment, video data which is delivered from the network camera110illustrated inFIG. 1is encoded data such as MPEG-4 (Moving Picture Experts Group 4) data or the like to which inter-frame prediction coding is used.

That is, in the present embodiment, the electronic data includes a group which is composed of information based on a difference between reference data and data previous in time and information based on a difference between data previous in time and data subsequent in time. Further, in the step S402ofFIG. 4according to the present embodiment, the following processes are performed to continue in time series the electronic data respectively extracted from the two video recording apparatuses120. More specifically, the extraction information is generated on the premise that the time of the data which is the first reference of the electronic data extracted subsequently in time is set earlier than the last time of the electronic data extracted previously in time. After then, in the step S404ofFIG. 4, the reproduction order information is generated so that, at the time of the data which is the first reference of the extraction data extracted subsequently in time, the extraction data extracted previously in time is switched to the extraction data extracted subsequently in time.

The process in the step S402ofFIG. 4in the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 15.

FIG. 15, indicating the third embodiment of the present invention, is a flow chart indicating an example of a detailed process of the extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4.

In the extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4, initially in a step S1501ofFIG. 15, a control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of selecting the first video recording apparatus from the plural video recording apparatuses120which perform the same operation. In the present embodiment, as well as the first embodiment, the first video recording apparatus is selected from video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2which are equivalent to the plural video recording apparatuses120which perform the same operation. Further, in the process of selecting the first video recording apparatus in the step S1501, the first aspect to the fifth aspect as described in the first embodiment can be applied.

Subsequently, in a step S1502, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of adding, as the extraction information, information for specifying the electronic data recorded in the first video recording apparatus selected in the step S1501. More specifically, the information from the start time to the end time of the time zone of the electronic data to be subjected to the backup process, and the information (video recording apparatus ID) for specifying the first video recording apparatus selected in the step S1501are added as the extraction information.

Subsequently, in a step S1503, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process sequentially performs the process for each deficiency period included in the time zone of the backup process, based on deficiency result information in the first video recording apparatus selected in the step S1501.

Subsequently, in a step S1504, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process judges whether or not another video recording apparatus which records the electronic data not including deficiency exists in the deficiency period in which the process by the first video recording apparatus is performed.

If it is judged in the step S1504that another video recording apparatus which records the electronic data not including deficiency exists (YES in the step S1504), the flow advances to a step S1505. In the step S1505, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of selecting I frames before and after the deficiency period in which the process is performed. More specifically, in the electronic data recorded in the relevant another video recording apparatus, the closest I frame before the start time of the deficiency period in which the process is performed is selected. Further, in the electronic data recorded in the first video recording apparatus, the closest I frame after the end time of the relevant deficiency period is selected.

Subsequently, in a step S1506, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of adding the extraction information. More specifically, the time of the I frame which is the I frame selected in the step S1505and is the I frame of another video recording apparatus is set as the start time, and the time of the I frame of the first video recording apparatus is set as the end time. Then, the information of the start time and the information of the end time are added together with the information (video recording apparatus ID) for specifying the relevant another video recording apparatus, as the extraction information.

If the process in the step S1506ends, or if it is judged in the step S1504that another video recording apparatus which records the electronic data not including deficiency does not exist (NO in the step S1504), the flow advances to a step S1507. In the step S1507, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process judges whether or not the process is performed for all of the deficiency periods based on the deficiency result information of the first video recording apparatus, included in the time zone of the backup process.

Then, if it is judged in the step S1507that the process is not performed for all of the deficiency periods, that is, if the deficiency result information which is not processed yet exists (NO in the step S1507), the flow returns to the step S1503. Thus, the processes in the step S1503and the following steps are performed again.

On the other hand, if it is judged in the step S1507that the process is performed for all of the deficiency periods (YES in the step S1507), the process in this flow chart ends.

In any case, the extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4is performed through the above-described processes in the steps S1501to S1507.

Subsequently, the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The overall configuration of an electronic data recording system according to the fourth embodiment is the same as the overall configuration of the electronic data recording system100according to the first embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1. Further, the internal constitution of a video recording apparatus120according to the fourth embodiment is the same as the internal constitution of the video recording apparatus120according to the first embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2. Furthermore, a procedure in an electronic data recording process to be performed by the video recording apparatus120according to the fourth embodiment is the same as the procedure in the electronic data recording process to be performed by the video recording apparatus120according to the first embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4.

In the fourth embodiment, the points different from those in the above-described second embodiment will be mainly described, and the descriptions of the points common to those in the second embodiment will be omitted or simplified. More specifically, in the fourth embodiment, video data which is delivered from the network camera110illustrated inFIG. 1is encoded data such as MPEG-4 data or the like to which inter-frame prediction coding is used.

FIG. 16, indicating the fourth embodiment of the present invention, is a flow chart indicating an example of a detailed process of the extraction information generating process in the step S402ofFIG. 4.

In the process of the step S402illustrated inFIG. 4, initially, in a step S1601ofFIG. 16, a control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of setting a process (extraction) start time (TS) as the start time of the backup process.

Subsequently, in a step S1602, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of selecting, from the plural video recording apparatuses120, the video recording apparatus in which the period after the process start time (TS) including deficiency is latest. That is, in the present embodiment, the video recording apparatus in which the interval from the start time (TS) to the period including the deficiency is longest is selected from video recording apparatuses120-1and120-2which constitute the plural video image recording apparatuses120which perform the same operation.

Subsequently, in a step S1603, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of selecting a closest I frame before the start time (TS), in the electronic data recorded in the video recording apparatus selected in the step S1602.

Subsequently, in a step S1604, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process updates the start time (TS) as the time of the I frame selected in the step S1603.

Subsequently, in a step S1605, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process judges whether or not one-previous extraction information added exists.

If it is judged in the step S1605that the one-previous extraction information added exists, the flow advances to a step S1606. In the step S1606, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process changes or updates the end time of the one-previous extraction information to the time of the I frame selected in the step S1603.

If the process in the step S1606ends, or if it is judged in the step S1605that the one-previous extraction information added does not exist (NO in the step S1605), the flow advances to a step S1607. In the step S1607, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process sets an end time (TE) of the process (extraction) to the start time of the deficiency of the video recording apparatus selected in the step S1602.

Subsequently, in a step S1608, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of adding the information for specifying the electronic data recorded in the video recording apparatus selected in the step S1602, as the extraction information. More specifically, the start time (TS) is set as the start time, and the end time (TE) is set as the end time. Then, the information of the start time and the information of the end time are added together with the information (video recording apparatus ID) for specifying the video recording apparatus selected in the step S1602, as the extraction information.

Subsequently, in a step S1609, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process judges whether or not the end time (TE) is the same as or later than the end time of the period of the backup process.

If it is judged in the step S1609that the end time (TE) is not the same as or later than the end time of the period of the backup process (NO in the step S1609), the flow advances to a step S1610. In the step S1610, the control processing unit122of the video recording apparatus120which performs the backup process performs a process of setting the end time (TE) as the process start time (TS). After then, the flow returns to the step S1602, and the processes in the step S1602and the following steps are performed again.

On the other hand, if it is judged in the step S1609that the end time (TE) is the same as or later than the end time of the period of the backup process (YES in the step S1609), the process in this flow chart ends.

According to the above-described embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to secure maintainability of the electronic data and also achieve reduction of the capacity necessary for the storage medium to which the electronic data is copied.

Moreover, since the electronic data not including the deficiency period is stored in the storage apparatus130, it is possible, in case of reproducing the electronic data, to obtain the electronic data without changing over sessions.

Incidentally, the respective steps indicated by the flow charts inFIGS. 4,8,10and13to16respectively showing the control methods of the video recording apparatus120according to the above-described embodiments of the present invention can be achieved if the CPU of a computer executes the programs stored in a RAM, a ROM and the like. Here, the programs and a computer-readable storage medium storing these programs are included in the present invention.

More specifically, the above-described programs are recorded on the storage medium such as a CD-ROM, or supplied to the computer through various transmission media. In addition to the CD-ROM, it is possible, as the storage medium for storing the programs, to use a flexible disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, a magnetooptical disk, a non-volatile memory card, or the like. On the other hand, it is possible, as the transmission media, to use communication media in a computer network system (a LAN, a WAN such as the Internet, a wireless communication network, or the like) for propagating and supplying program information as carrier waves. Further, it is possible to use a wired line such as an optical fiber or the like, a wireless line, or the like, as the communication media at this time.

The present invention is not limited to the aspect that the functions of the video recording apparatus120according to the respective embodiments are achieved if the computer executes the supplied programs. That is, also in a case where these programs achieve, in association with an OS (operating system) or other application software functioning on the computer, the functions of the video recording apparatus120according to the respective embodiments, the relevant programs are included in the present invention. Further, also in a case where the functions of the video recording apparatus120according to the respective embodiments are achieved if all or a part of processes of the supplied programs are performed by a function expansion board or a function expansion unit of the computer, the relevant programs are included in the present invention.

Other Embodiments

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-213292, filed Aug. 21, 2008, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.