Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and computer readable medium

Abstract

The present application provides an information processing device, an information processing method, and a computer readable medium. The information processing device has a processor that prohibits creation of a folder belonging to a layer lower than a particular layer in a case where a layer structure of a folder is used to manage files.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to information processing apparatus, information processing methods, and computer-readable media. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-67094 describes a system that accurately determines the location information of a file in a folder hierarchy based on the user's daily file saving behavior, and automatically generates metadata based on that location information.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-215441 describes a system in which, when multiple files and folders are managed hierarchically, the process of searching for files is recorded in advance and the file is used when searching for files later.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-279960 describes a device for searching and viewing electronic forms. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to manage files using a hierarchical folder structure, thereby reducing the workload for users searching for target files by means of manual tasks, compared to the case of unlimited permission for hierarchical folders.

[0006] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, an information processing apparatus is provided, which includes a processor that, when managing files using a hierarchical folder structure, prohibits the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than a specific layer.

[0007] According to the second aspect of this disclosure, the specific layer is determined by the user.

[0008] According to the third aspect of this disclosure, the processor also directs the user to a folder belonging to a higher-level layer if the user wants to create a folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer.

[0009] According to the fourth aspect of this disclosure, the processor also guides the user to decide whether to lift the ban on creating folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer when the user wants to create a folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer.

[0010] According to the fifth aspect of this disclosure, if the processor has already created a folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer, and subsequently stipulates that creating folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer is prohibited, then the folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer will be assigned to a higher layer.

[0011] According to the sixth aspect of this disclosure, if the processor has already created a folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer, and subsequently stipulates that creating folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer is prohibited, the folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer will maintain the layer structure and belong to a higher layer.

[0012] According to the seventh aspect of this disclosure, if the processor has already created a folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer and saved files in that folder, and then specifies that creating folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer is prohibited, the processor will save the files in a folder belonging to a higher layer.

[0013] According to the eighth embodiment of this disclosure, the processor prohibits the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer for each user.

[0014] According to the ninth aspect of this disclosure, the processor operates on a folder-by-folder basis and prohibits the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer.

[0015] According to the tenth aspect of this disclosure, the processor specifies a period during which the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer is prohibited.

[0016] According to the eleventh aspect of this disclosure, the processor changes the folder where the file is saved based on the frequency of file usage.

[0017] According to the twelfth aspect of this disclosure, the processor changes the layer to which the folder belongs based on the folder's utilization frequency.

[0018] According to the thirteenth aspect of this disclosure, the utilization frequency is the frequency at which weighted processing corresponding to the operation content is applied.

[0019] According to the fourteenth aspect of this disclosure, the processor also retrieves files with reference to a higher-level layer above the specified layer.

[0020] According to the fifteenth aspect of this disclosure, the processor changes the specific layer based on the user who has specified the hierarchical structure of the folder.

[0021] According to the sixteenth aspect of this disclosure, a computer-readable medium is provided that stores a program that causes a computer to perform processing, wherein, in the process of managing files using a hierarchical folder structure, the creation of folders belonging to a layer lower than a specific layer is prohibited.

[0022] According to the seventeenth aspect of this disclosure, an information processing method is provided, wherein when using a hierarchical folder structure to manage files, the creation of folders belonging to a lower level than a specific layer is prohibited.

[0023] (Effect)

[0024] According to the first, sixteenth, and seventeenth schemes, using a hierarchical folder structure to manage files can reduce the operational burden on users searching for target files compared to the case of unlimited permission for hierarchical folders, when users search for files through manual operations.

[0025] According to the second scheme, the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than those specified by the user can be prohibited.

[0026] According to the third scheme, it is possible to notify the user of folders belonging to a higher-level layer.

[0027] According to the fourth solution, users can be given the opportunity to remove the restriction on folder creation.

[0028] According to the fifth, sixth, and seventh schemes, compared to maintaining the state when a folder belonging to a lower level than a specific layer has already been created, the burden of operations for users searching for target files can be reduced.

[0029] According to the eighth scheme, it is possible to prohibit the creation of folders for each user.

[0030] According to the ninth scheme, the creation of folders can be prohibited on a per-folder basis.

[0031] According to the tenth scheme, the creation of folders can be prohibited during the period when folder creation is prohibited.

[0032] According to the eleventh solution, files can be saved in folders that correspond to the frequency of file usage.

[0033] According to the twelfth scheme, folders can be assigned to layers corresponding to the frequency of folder usage.

[0034] According to the thirteenth scheme, the utilization frequency can be calculated by taking into account the operational content.

[0035] According to the fourteenth scheme, the time spent retrieving files can be shortened compared to retrieving files by targeting all layers.

[0036] According to the fifteenth scheme, it is possible to construct the layer structure by considering users who have specified the layer structure of folders. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the information processing apparatus according to this embodiment.

[0038] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the hierarchical structure of the folder.

[0039] Figure 3 This is an image showing the settings screen for layer restrictions.

[0040] Figure 4 This is an image showing the folder management screen.

[0041] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the hierarchical structure of the folder.

[0042] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the hierarchical structure of the folder.

[0043] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the hierarchical structure of the folder.

[0044] Figure 8 This is an image showing the settings screen for layer restrictions.

[0045] Figure 9 This is an image showing the settings screen for layer restrictions.

[0046] Figure 10 This is an image showing the settings screen for layer restrictions.

[0047] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the hierarchical structure of the folder.

[0048] Figure 12 This is an image showing the settings screen for layer restrictions.

[0049] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the settings screen for searching.

[0050] Figure 14 It is a diagram showing the reproduction order of a moving image. Detailed Implementation

[0051] Reference Figure 1 The information processing apparatus 10 of this embodiment will now be described. Figure 1 An example of the structure of the information processing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment is shown.

[0052] Information processing device 10 is, for example, a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as "PC"), a tablet PC, a smartphone, a wearable device (e.g., AR (Augmented Reality) glasses, VR (Virtual Reality) glasses, a hearing-enabled wearable device, etc.), a mobile phone, or a server, etc.

[0053] In this embodiment, a hierarchical folder structure is used to manage files. In this case, the information processing device 10 prohibits the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than a specific layer.

[0054] Files can be data or programs. Data can be image data, moving image data, sound data (e.g., voice data or music data), text data, file data, or a combination of at least two of these.

[0055] A folder is a location where files are saved. Folders are sometimes also called directories. Furthermore, even if a folder is created, files may not actually be saved within that folder.

[0056] For example, a hierarchical structure of folders can be built using a file system or database. Hierarchical structures are sometimes also referred to as tree structures.

[0057] Files can be stored either on the information processing device 10 or on a device other than the information processing device 10 (such as a file server). For example, a folder can be created on the information processing device 10 to build a file system or database, and files can be stored on the information processing device 10. Alternatively, a folder can be created on a device other than the information processing device 10 to build a file system or database, and files can be stored on the device other than the information processing device 10. When a folder is created on a device other than the information processing device 10, the information processing device 10 communicates with that device to prevent the creation of folders belonging to a lower level than a specific layer. This communication can be wired or wireless.

[0058] Hereinafter, as an example, we assume that a folder is created in the information processing device 10 and files are saved in the folder created in the information processing device 10.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, the information processing device 10 includes, for example, a communication device 12, a UI 14, a memory 16, and a processor 18.

[0060] The communication device 12 has a communication interface with a communication chip, communication lines, etc., and has the function of sending information to other devices and receiving information from other devices. The communication device 12 can have wireless communication function or wired communication function.

[0061] UI 14 is a user interface, including at least one of a display and an operating device. The display may be an LCD or EL display, etc. The operating device may be a keyboard, mouse, input keys, or operation panel, etc. UI 14 may also be a touch panel, etc., that combines a display and an input device.

[0062] The memory 16 is a device that constitutes one or more storage areas for storing various types of information. The memory 16 may be, for example, a hard disk drive, various types of memory (e.g., RAM, DRAM, and ROM), other storage devices (e.g., optical discs), or a combination of at least two of them. One or more memories 16 are included in the information processing device 10. For example, a file is stored in the memory 16.

[0063] The processor 18 is configured to control the operation of various parts of the information processing device 10. The processor 18 may also have a memory.

[0064] For example, processor 18 performs operations such as creating folders, deleting folders, moving folders, saving files to folders, deleting files, and moving files between folders.

[0065] When using a hierarchical folder structure to manage files, processor 18 prohibits the creation of folders belonging to levels lower than a specific level. For example, even if the user instructs the creation of a folder belonging to a level lower than a specific level, processor 18 will not create such a folder. Processor 18 may choose not to create the folder, or it may create the folder at a level above the specific level but not at a level lower than the specific level. The specific level may be determined by the user or administrator (e.g., someone with set permissions), or it may be determined automatically, independent of the user or administrator. Processor 18 may also prohibit the creation of folders belonging to levels lower than a specific level under certain conditions.

[0066] The embodiments of this implementation will be described in detail below.

[0067] (Example 1)

[0068] Example 1 will be described below.

[0069] Figure 2 This shows an example of a folder's hierarchical structure. Figure 2 The diagram shows levels 1 through 5. One or more folders belong to each level.

[0070] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, folder A is the first-level folder. Folder B is the second-level folder, contained within folder A. Folder C is the third-level folder, contained within folder B. Folder D is the fourth-level folder, contained within folder C. Folder E is the fifth-level folder, contained within folder D. Furthermore, files can be saved in each folder, or not.

[0071] exist Figure 2In the example shown, one folder was created in each level, but multiple folders can also be created in each level. For example, multiple folders belonging to the second level can be created, which are contained within folder A in the first level. Alternatively, other folders other than folder A can be created that belong to the first level, containing folders belonging to the second level. Multiple folders belonging to the second level can also be created, some of which are contained within folder A, and the remaining folders are contained within folders in the first level other than folder A. The same applies to other levels.

[0072] For example, the specific layer is layer 3. In this case, processor 18 prohibits the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than layer 3 (i.e., folders belonging to layers 4 and below). Figure 2 In the example shown, processor 18 prevents the creation of folders D, E, and folders at lower levels. For instance, even if the user uses UI 14 to instruct the creation of folder D, which is a fourth-level subfolder within folder C, processor 18 will not create folder D.

[0073] Figure 3 An example of a settings screen 20 is shown. Settings screen 20 is used to set restrictions on folder creation. For example, if the user gives a display instruction for settings screen 20, settings screen 20 will be displayed on the UI14 display. Users or administrators can set the presence or absence of restrictions on folder creation, as well as specific layers, on settings screen 20.

[0074] On settings screen 20, if layer restriction is set to "ON", the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than a specific layer will be prohibited. Figure 3 In the example shown, "Level 3" is designated as a specific level. Folder creation is not prohibited when level restrictions are set to "OFF".

[0075] Figure 4 An example of management screen 22 is shown. Management screen 22 is used to manage folders. For example, when the user gives a command to display management screen 22, management screen 22 is displayed on the UI14 display. The user can create folders, change folder names, and delete folders on management screen 22.

[0076] For example, folder A, which belongs to level 1, is created as a work-related folder; folder B, which belongs to level 2, is created as a folder related to intellectual property; and folder C, which belongs to level 3, is created as a folder related to patents.

[0077] If a user wants to create a folder belonging to a fourth level below the third level (e.g., folder D) (for example, if the user enters a name for a fourth-level folder on management screen 22 and instructs the creation of that folder), the processor 18 will not create the fourth-level folder even if it accepts the creation instruction. The processor 18 may also refuse the creation instruction. In this case, the fourth-level folder will not be created either.

[0078] Processor 18 can also notify the user that a folder belonging to a level lower than the third level cannot be created. Processor 18 can display a message on the UI 14 display indicating that a folder belonging to a level lower than the third level cannot be created, or it can emit an audio message representing the message from a speaker.

[0079] If a user wants to create a folder belonging to a lower-level layer than a specific layer, the processor 18 can also direct the user to a folder belonging to a higher-level layer. For example, the processor 18 directs the user to save files in a folder belonging to a higher-level layer. The directed layer is the layer that would be included if a folder belonging to a lower-level layer than the specific layer were created. The directed layer can be a specific layer or a layer above the specific layer. The directed layer can be, for example, predetermined and changed by the user or administrator.

[0080] For example, if a user instructs on management screen 22 to create a folder D belonging to level 4 (e.g., a folder named "Invention Proposal"), processor 18 directs the user to a folder belonging to a level higher than level 4. Processor 18 will direct the user to at least one of the folders A, B, and C that would contain folder D if it were created. Processor 18 can direct the user to folder C, which is a specific level (level 3), or to folders A and B, which are higher levels. For example, when directing folder C, processor 18 can either display a message such as "Please save the file in folder C named 'Patent'" on the UI 14 display, or emit an audio representation of that message from the speaker.

[0081] When a user wants to create a folder belonging to a layer lower than a specific layer, the processor 18 can also guide the user to decide whether to lift the restriction on creating folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer. For example, if the user instructs on the management screen 22 to create a folder D belonging to the 4th layer, the processor 18 can either display a message indicating that the restriction has been lifted on the UI 14 display or emit an audio signal indicating the message from the speaker. When the user or administrator sets the layer restriction to "OFF" on the settings screen 20, the restriction on creating folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer (e.g., folders belonging to the 4th layer) is lifted, and the user can create the folder.

[0082] (Example 2)

[0083] Example 2 will be described below.

[0084] If a folder belonging to a layer lower than a specific layer (e.g., layer 3) has already been created before the rule prohibiting the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than a specific layer is established, and then the rule prohibiting the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than a specific layer is subsequently established, the processor 18 will assign the folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer to a higher layer.

[0085] Reference Figure 5 Example 2 will be described in detail below. Figure 5 This shows the hierarchical structure of the folder.

[0086] For example, before the rule prohibits the creation of folders belonging to a level lower than the 3rd level, folder D, which is contained in folder C and belongs to the 4th level, and folder E, which is contained in folder D and belongs to the 5th level, have already been created.

[0087] In this situation, if the creation of folders belonging to a level lower than level 3 is prohibited, the processor 18 assigns folders D and E to a higher level than the specific level (e.g., level 3). If a file is stored in folder D, that file is stored in folder D, and folder D belongs to a higher level than the specific level. The same applies to folder E.

[0088] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, processor 18 assigns folders D and E to the third level and includes them within folder B, which belongs to the second level. In this case, folders C, D, and E belong to the third level. Processor 18 can also assign folders D and E to the second level and include them within folder A, which belongs to the first level. Figure 5 In the diagram, dashed lines represent the state before the attribute change, and solid lines represent the state after the attribute change.

[0089] Processor 18 can also pre-store changes to folder levels, allowing the level to revert to its previous state. For example, after folders D and E belong to level 1 or level 2 (i.e., after the levels of folders D and E have been changed), if the restriction on creating folders belonging to levels lower than level 3 is lifted, processor 18 can also assign folders D and E to their original levels. That is, processor 18 can also assign folder D to level 4 and include it within folder C, and assign folder E to level 5 and include it within folder D. Of course, processor 18 can also maintain the changes to the levels of folders D and E.

[0090] (Example 3)

[0091] Example 3 will be described below.

[0092] If a folder belonging to a layer lower than a specific layer has already been created before the creation of such a folder is prohibited, and the creation of such a folder is subsequently prohibited, the processor 18 maintains the layer structure while assigning the folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer to a higher layer.

[0093] Reference Figure 6 Example 3 will be described in detail below. Figure 6 This shows the hierarchical structure of the folder.

[0094] For example, before the rule prohibits the creation of folders belonging to a level lower than the 3rd level, folder D, which is contained in folder C and belongs to the 4th level, and folder E, which is contained in folder D and belongs to the 5th level, have already been created.

[0095] In this situation, where the creation of folders belonging to a level lower than level 3 is prohibited, processor 18 ensures that folders D and E maintain their current level structure while belonging to a higher level. If a file is stored in folder D, that file is stored in folder D, and folder D belongs to a higher level. The same applies to folder E.

[0096] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, processor 18 makes folder D belong to the second level and be contained within folder A, which belongs to the first level, and makes folder E belong to the third level and be contained within folder D, which belongs to the second level. In this way, folder E belongs to a lower level than folder D, maintaining the layer structure of being contained within folder D, and changing the layers of folders D and E.

[0097] With the restriction on creating folders belonging to a lower level than the 3rd level lifted, the processor 18 can either allow folders D and E to belong to their original levels, or maintain the changes in the levels of folders D and E.

[0098] (Example 4)

[0099] Example 4 will be described below.

[0100] If a folder belonging to a layer lower than a specific layer (e.g., layer 3) has already been created before the rule prohibiting the creation of such a folder is established, and then the rule prohibiting the creation of such a folder is subsequently established, the processor 18 will save the files that were saved in the folder belonging to the lower layer to the folder belonging to the higher layer.

[0101] Reference Figure 7 Example 4 will be described in detail below. Figure 7 The folder's hierarchical structure is shown in the image.

[0102] For example, before the rule prohibits the creation of folders belonging to a level lower than the 3rd level, folder D, which is contained in folder C and belongs to the 4th level, and folder E, which is contained in folder D and belongs to the 5th level, have already been created.

[0103] In this situation, since creating folders belonging to levels lower than level 3 is prohibited, processor 18 will save the files stored in folders D and E respectively in folders belonging to a higher-level layer. The higher-level layer can be a specific layer or a layer above a specific layer. Figure 7 In the example shown, the files stored in folders D and E respectively are stored in folder C, which belongs to the third level as a specific layer. Processor 18 can either delete folders D and E or not.

[0104] If the restriction on creating folders belonging to a level lower than the 3rd level is lifted, the processor 18 can also save files originally stored in folder C within folders D and E back to the original folders D and E. If folders D and E are deleted, the processor 18 can also create folders D and E and save the files back to the original folders D and E.

[0105] Additionally, each file saved in folders D and E can be saved in folder A or folder B.

[0106] (Example 5)

[0107] Example 5 will be described below.

[0108] Processor 18 prohibits the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than a specific layer for each user.

[0109] Figure 8 The settings screen 26 of Embodiment 5 is shown. On the settings screen 26, users or administrators can set a restriction on the creation of folders belonging to levels lower than a specific level for each user. For example, a specific level can be changed for each user. Alternatively, a restriction can be set for the creation of folders belonging to levels lower than a specific level for each group to which one or more users belong.

[0110] exist Figure 8 In the example shown, the specific layer for user A is layer 3, the specific layer for user B is layer 4, and the specific layer for user C is layer 5. Information indicating this setting is stored in the memory 16 of the information processing device 10. For example, information for identifying the user (e.g., user ID, account information, name, etc.) and information indicating the specific layer are associated with each user and stored in memory 16. The processor 18, by referring to this information, changes the specific layer for each user, either disabling or allowing folder creation.

[0111] For example, when user A logs into information processing device 10 using their own account information, processor 18 allows the creation of folders up to the third level, but prohibits the creation of folders belonging to levels below the fourth level. The same applies to other users.

[0112] Processor 18 can also allow users to access folders belonging to layers lower than a specific layer, as well as the files stored in those folders. Thus, user A can access folders belonging to layers 4 and below, and the files stored in those folders. The same applies to other users.

[0113] In addition, processor 18 can also change specific layers based on user attributes (such as permissions, skills, status, position, etc.).

[0114] Figure 9 Other settings screen 28 is displayed. Figure 9 The examples shown illustrate the hierarchical structures involved in Mode A (a mode that manages hierarchical structures up to level 3, down to level 5), Mode B (a mode that manages hierarchical structures up to level 2, down to level 5), and Mode C (a mode that manages hierarchical structures up to level 3, down to level 7). For instance, if a user or administrator specifies Mode A, the creation of folders belonging to levels lower than level 3 is prohibited, and the processor 18 manages folders and files through a hierarchical structure up to level 3. The same applies to the other modes.

[0115] Processor 18 can also prevent the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than a specific layer, on a folder-by-folder basis. For example, processor 18 can prevent the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than a specific layer for folders associated with work (e.g., work folders), and it can also prevent the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than a specific layer for folders associated with games (e.g., game folders).

[0116] Processor 18 can also specify a period during which the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than a specific layer is prohibited. (See reference...) Figure 10 This process will be explained. Figure 10 The settings screen 30 is shown. Users or administrators can set the start time (e.g., day, date and time) and end time (e.g., day, date and time) of the restriction on the settings screen 30. The period between the start and end time of the restriction is the period during which the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer is prohibited. If this period is set, the processor 18 prohibits the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer during this period, and does not prohibit the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer outside this period. Furthermore, if no period is set, the processor 18 prohibits the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer during the period in which the restriction is set (i.e., as long as the restriction is not lifted).

[0117] (Example 6)

[0118] Example 6 will be described below.

[0119] Processor 18 can also change the folder where the file is saved based on the file's usage frequency. File usage frequency includes, for example, the frequency with which the file is manipulated (e.g., the number of operations, the number of operations per unit period), and the frequency with which the file is accessed (e.g., the number of accesses, the number of accesses per unit period). File operations include, for example, editing the file, opening the file, and copying the file. (See reference...) Figure 11 This process will be explained in detail. Figure 11 This shows the hierarchical structure of the folder.

[0120] For example, if the frequency of file usage exceeds a threshold, the processor 18 moves the file to a higher-level folder than the folder where it is currently stored, and saves the file in that higher-level folder instead of the original folder. This higher-level folder can be a folder at the next higher level than the original folder, or a folder at an even higher level. The higher-level folder can also be specified by the user. Alternatively, the processor 18 can save the file in the original folder and save a copy of the file in the higher-level folder.

[0121] For example, before it is stipulated that creating a folder belonging to a layer lower than a specific layer is prohibited, a file is stored in a folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer. After that, when the prohibition of such creation is stipulated, if the frequency of use of the file is above a threshold, the processor 18 will save the file in a folder belonging to a layer above the specific layer.

[0122] For example, if the usage frequency of file 32 stored in folder D exceeds a threshold (e.g., more than 20 accesses per month), processor 18 saves file 32 in folder C, which belongs to the third level as a specific layer. Processor 18 saves file 32 in folder C and not in folder D by moving file 32 from folder D to folder C. Alternatively, processor 18 could save file 32 in folder D and save a copy of file 32 in folder C.

[0123] When file 32 is stored in folder C (i.e., after file 32 has been moved to folder C), if the usage frequency of file 32 exceeds a threshold, processor 18 moves file 32 from folder C to folder B, thereby storing file 32 in folder B and not storing file 32 in folder C. In this way, based on the file's usage frequency, files are gradually stored in folders belonging to higher-level folders. Processor 18 may also store file 32 in folder C and store a copy of file 32 in folder B.

[0124] Similarly, if the usage frequency of file 34 stored in folder E exceeds a threshold, processor 18 will save file 34 in folder C, which belongs to the third level. Alternatively, processor 18 may move file 34 to folder D, which belongs to the level above folder E, and save it in folder D.

[0125] If the usage frequency of a file stored in folders B and C exceeds a threshold, the processor 18 will save the file in a higher-level folder. For example, if the usage frequency of a file stored in folder C exceeds the threshold, the processor 18 will move the file from folder C to folder B and save the file in folder B.

[0126] Different thresholds can also be set for each level. For example, the threshold for moving from a folder belonging to level 4 (e.g., folder D) to a folder belonging to level 3 (e.g., folder C) can be different from the threshold for moving from a folder belonging to level 3 (e.g., folder C) to a folder belonging to level 2 (e.g., folder B). For example, the latter can be a larger value than the former, or these values ​​can be determined by the user.

[0127] The processor 18 can also move a file to a folder at a lower level than the folder where it is saved, based on the file's usage frequency. For example, if the file's usage frequency is below a threshold for moving a file to a lower-level folder, the processor 18 moves the file to a folder at a lower level than the folder where it is saved. For example, if the usage frequency of a file saved in folder B is below this threshold, the processor 18 moves the file to folder C and saves it in folder C.

[0128] The processor 18 can change the layer to which a folder belongs based on its usage frequency. Folder usage frequency can be, for example, the frequency of folder operations, the frequency of folder access, the frequency of operations on files stored in the folder, and the frequency of access to files stored in the folder. When multiple files are stored in a folder, the total usage frequency of those multiple files can also be considered the folder's usage frequency.

[0129] For example, if the usage frequency of folder D, which belongs to level 4, exceeds a threshold, processor 18 assigns folder D to level 3, which is the next higher level. In this case, folders C and D are included in folder B as folders belonging to level 3. If folder C belongs to level 3 and its usage frequency exceeds a threshold, processor 18 assigns folder C to level 2. Thus, folders can belong to higher levels depending on their usage frequency.

[0130] The frequency of file utilization can also be a frequency that has been weighted according to the operations performed on the file. For example, weighting coefficients are specified for operations such as editing, opening, and copying the file. The processor 18 performs weighting processing according to the coefficients corresponding to the operations performed on the file to calculate the utilization frequency of the file. For example, if the coefficient for editing the file is a larger value than the coefficient for opening the file, the utilization frequency is higher when the file is edited compared to when the file is opened.

[0131] Similarly, the frequency of folder usage can also be the frequency of applying weighted processing corresponding to the operations performed on the folder.

[0132] The processor 18 can also change the folder to which the file is moved based on the operations performed on it. For example, if a second file is opened when the first file is opened, the processor 18 moves the second file to the folder where the first file is saved.

[0133] The processor 18 can perform either the following processes, depending on the operation content applied to the file: saving the file in the original folder and saving a copy of the file in the destination folder, or not saving the file in the original folder but moving the file to the destination folder.

[0134] Additionally, the processor 18 can notify the user or administrator when moving a file from its original folder to another folder, or when saving a copy of the file to the destination folder. If the user or administrator permits the movement or saving, the processor 18 can also move the file to another folder or save a copy of the file to another folder. If the user or administrator does not permit the movement or saving, the processor 18 will neither move the file to another folder nor save a copy of the file to another folder.

[0135] Figure 12 The settings screen 36 of Embodiment 6 is shown. Conditions for moving files are set on the settings screen 36. For example, if the number of visits is 10 times or more per month, conditions can be set on the settings screen 36 to move the file to the folder belonging to the previous level, and to save a copy in a folder if simultaneously opened files are saved in other folders.

[0136] (Example 7)

[0137] Example 7 will be described below.

[0138] When searching for files stored in a folder, the processor 18 retrieves the files using the layer above the specified layer as the target. The layer above the retrieved file can be a specific layer or other layers.

[0139] exist Figure 13 The settings screen 38 for searching is shown. The search range can be specified on the settings screen 38. Figure 13 In the example shown, folder A and the third level are specified. This specification is made by the user or administrator. Processor 18 retrieves files based on folder A, and folders B and C that are contained within folder A and belong to the third level or higher, but not on folders D and E.

[0140] (Example 8)

[0141] Example 8 will be described below.

[0142] Processor 18 modifies specific layers based on the user who determined the folder hierarchy. Here, "user" refers to individuals with permissions that define the hierarchy, such as administrators.

[0143] For example, information indicating the layer structure of other folders previously determined by the user, which represents the layer structure of files constructed in the information processing device 10, is stored in memory or the like. The processor 18 determines a specific layer in the layer structure of files constructed in the information processing device 10 based on the characteristics of the layer structures of the previously determined other folders. For example, if a layer is characterized by having more layer levels, the processor 18 does not prohibit the creation of folders belonging to lower-level layers compared to a layer characterized by having fewer layer levels.

[0144] For example, user A previously created folders with a 3-level hierarchical structure, and user B previously created folders with a 5-level hierarchical structure. When user A constructs the folder hierarchy in information processing device 10, the specific level is level 3, and processor 18 prohibits the creation of folders belonging to levels lower than level 3. Similarly, when user B constructs the folder hierarchy in information processing device 10, the specific level is level 5, and processor 18 prohibits the creation of folders belonging to levels lower than level 5.

[0145] In the embodiments described above, the folder for storing the file can also be determined based on the type of file. For example, animated GIF files can be stored in an animated GIF folder, and music files can be stored in a music folder.

[0146] (Other implementation methods)

[0147] The following describes other implementation methods. In the embodiments described above, folders and files are managed; however, as other implementation methods, the reproduction of moving images and music can also be managed. Here, as an example, the reproduction of moving images is managed.

[0148] Figure 14 The playback order of the moving images is shown. For example, the moving images V1, V2 associated with V1, V3 associated with V2, V4 associated with V3, and V5 associated with V4 are reproduced in sequence.

[0149] For example, when the user instructs the playback of motion picture V1, the processor 18 plays motion picture V1. When the playback of motion picture V1 ends, motion picture V2, which will be the next motion picture, is automatically played. The same applies to motion picture V3 and thereafter.

[0150] In relation to layers, motion picture V1 is a motion picture belonging to layer 1, motion picture V2 is a motion picture belonging to layer 2, motion picture V3 is a motion picture belonging to layer 3, motion picture V4 is a motion picture belonging to layer 4, and motion picture V5 is a motion picture belonging to layer 5.

[0151] For example, if the reproduction of moving images belonging to a lower level than level 3 is prohibited, the processor 18, after reproducing moving images V1, V2, and V3 in the order of V1, V2, and V3, will not reproduce moving images V4 and V5 from level 4 onwards. Moving image V1 is specified by the user, and moving image V2 is associated with moving image V1; therefore, it is assumed that moving images V1 and V2 are moving images of interest to the user. The same applies to moving image V3. It is assumed that moving images V4 and V5 have a low association with moving image V1, and therefore are assumed to be of no interest to the user. By not reproducing moving images V4 and V5 consecutively with moving images V1, V2, and V3, it is possible to prevent the reproduction of moving images that are assumed to be of no interest to the user. Furthermore, specific levels can also be specified by the user. The same applies to the reproduction of music or the display of images.

[0152] In addition to animated images or music, web pages can also manage link destinations specified by addresses such as URLs. For example, a link destination contained in a web page corresponding to level 1 may be a web page corresponding to level 2, and a link destination contained in a web page corresponding to level 2 may be a web page corresponding to level 3. The same applies to subsequent web pages. In this case, the processor 18 can also block access to web pages corresponding to a specific level (e.g., level 3). For example, movement from a web page corresponding to level 1 to a web page corresponding to level 2 may be allowed, and then movement from a web page corresponding to level 2 to a web page corresponding to level 3 may be blocked.

[0153] As an example, the functions of each part of the information processing device 10 are realized through the cooperation of hardware and software. For instance, the processor of the information processing device 10 realizes the functions of each part by reading and executing programs stored in the memory of the information processing device 10. The programs are stored in the memory via recording media such as CDs or DVDs, or via communication paths such as networks.

[0154] In the above embodiments, "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, including general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic devices, etc.). Furthermore, the operation of the processor in the above embodiments can be formed not only by a single processor, but also by the cooperation of multiple processors located in physically separate locations. Additionally, the order of the processor's actions is not limited to the order described in the above embodiments and can be appropriately modified.

Claims

1. An information processing device comprising a processor, When the processor uses a hierarchical folder structure to manage files, if it creates a folder belonging to a lower level than a specific level and then prohibits the creation of folders belonging to lower levels than the specific level, it changes the folder hierarchy in such a way that the folders belonging to lower levels than the specific level belong to a higher level. If the creation of folders belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer is prohibited, the layer structure of the folder is restored to the layer structure before the change.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The specific layer is determined by the user.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The processor also directs the user to a folder belonging to a higher-level layer if the user wants to create a folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The processor also prompts the user to decide whether to lift the ban on creating folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer if the user wants to create such a folder.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, After creating a folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer, the processor specifies that creating a folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer is prohibited. In this case, the layer structure of the folder belonging to the layer lower than the specific layer is changed in such a way that the layer structure of the folder belonging to the layer lower than the specific layer is maintained and the folder belongs to a higher layer.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, If the processor has already created a folder belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer and saved files in that folder, and then specifies that creating folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer is prohibited, the processor will save the files in a folder belonging to a higher layer.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor, for each user, prohibits the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor operates on a folder-by-folder basis and prohibits the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer.

9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor specifies a period during which the creation of folders belonging to layers lower than the specific layer is prohibited.

10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor changes the folder where the file is saved based on the frequency of file usage.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor changes the layer to which a folder belongs based on the folder's usage frequency.

12. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The utilization frequency is the frequency at which weighted processing corresponding to the operation content is applied.

13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor also retrieves files based on the upper-level layers above the specified layer.

14. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor changes the specific layer according to the user who has specified the folder's hierarchical structure.

15. A computer-readable medium storing a program that causes a computer to perform processing, wherein... In the process, When using a hierarchical folder structure to manage files, if a folder belonging to a lower level than a specific level is created, and then the creation of folders belonging to lower levels is prohibited, the folder hierarchy is changed in such a way that folders belonging to lower levels are placed in a higher level. If the creation of folders belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer is prohibited, the layer structure of the folder is restored to the layer structure before the change.

16. An information processing method, wherein, When using a hierarchical folder structure to manage files, if a folder belonging to a lower level than a specific level is created, and then the creation of folders belonging to lower levels is prohibited, the folder hierarchy is changed in such a way that folders belonging to lower levels are placed in a higher level. If the creation of folders belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer is prohibited, the layer structure of the folder is restored to the layer structure before the change.

17. A computer program product comprising a program that causes a computer to perform processing. In the process, When using a hierarchical folder structure to manage files, if a folder belonging to a lower level than a specific level is created, and then the creation of folders belonging to lower levels is prohibited, the folder hierarchy is changed in such a way that folders belonging to lower levels are placed in a higher level. If the creation of folders belonging to a layer lower than the specific layer is prohibited, the layer structure of the folder is restored to the layer structure before the change.

Images