JP5609592B2 - Program, computer, information processing method, and communication system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a program used in a computer for processing information, a computer, an information processing method, and a communication system.

  Software usage forms that allow software execution only within a predetermined number of licenses are widespread. There is known a license management device that gives a warning to an executing user when an execution request exceeding the number of licenses is received and releases the license after a set time has elapsed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2002-297254 A

  However, the conventional technique has a problem that the license is uniformly released when the set time elapses.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances. The purpose is to provide a program or the like that can process in accordance with the usage status of software by outputting information indicating that the number of permitted licenses has been exceeded in different forms depending on whether or not the file is opened by software. There is.

  The program disclosed in the present application is a program used for a computer that processes information, and executes software that is permitted to execute within the number of licenses stored in the storage unit, and opens a file with the software. The identification information related to the state is extracted by the control unit, the software is executed, and the identification information related to the second state in which no file is opened by the software is extracted by the control unit. When the software execution request is received from the computer, the extracted identification information related to the first state is referred to, the first information is output by the control unit, and the software execution request is issued after the number of licenses is reached. When accepted, the control unit refers to the extracted identification information related to the second state. And the second information the first information to execute a process of outputting in different forms.

  According to one aspect of the present application, by outputting information in different forms, it is possible to reduce the waiting time of a user who requests execution of software in accordance with the usage status of software.

It is a schematic diagram which shows the outline | summary of a communication system. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware group of a server computer. It is explanatory drawing which shows the record layout of a utilization table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the image of a utilization state. It is explanatory drawing which shows the record layout of a file table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the record layout of a standby table. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware group of a personal computer. It is a flowchart which shows a login process. It is a flowchart which shows a login process. It is a flowchart which shows the storage processing procedure of a utilization state. It is a flowchart which shows the storage processing procedure of a utilization state. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a notification process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a notification process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display image of notification information. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display image of notification information. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display image of notification information. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the completion | finish process of a file. It is a flowchart which shows the completion | finish processing procedure of a permission program. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware group of a server computer according to Embodiment 2. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the record layout of a time table. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of an end process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of an end process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of an end process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of an end process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a notification information output process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a notification information output process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a notification information output process. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware group of a server computer according to a fourth embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the record layout of a standby level table. It is a flowchart which shows the display processing procedure of notification information. It is a flowchart which shows the display processing procedure of notification information. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing a record layout of a usage table according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a record layout of a file table according to a fifth embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence at the time of receiving a conversion process command. It is a flowchart which shows the display processing procedure of notification information. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display image of notification information. FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware group of a server computer according to a sixth embodiment. It is a functional block diagram of a server computer. It is a functional block diagram of a server computer.

Embodiment 1
Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of a communication system. The communication system includes a central device 1 and a plurality of terminal devices 2A to 2E (hereinafter, represented by 2 in some cases). The central device 1 is, for example, a server computer or a personal computer. Hereinafter, the central device 1 is referred to as a server computer 1. The terminal device 2 is, for example, a personal computer, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistance), a mobile phone, a book reader, or the like. Hereinafter, the terminal device 2 is referred to as a personal computer 2. The server computer 1 and the personal computer 2 are connected via a communication network N such as the Internet.

  The server computer 1 manages the number of licenses of licensed software (hereinafter referred to as a licensed program). In the example of FIG. 1, the number of licenses (upper limit) is 3, and the users of the personal computers 2A to 2C use the licensed program. When the licensed program is executed, the first state is displayed in which files related to the licensed program are listed. That is, in this state, the licensed program is executed, but the file is not opened by the licensed program. When the file is opened by the licensed program, the process shifts to the second state in which the file is opened. In the example of FIG. 1, the personal computers 2A and 2B are in the first state, and the personal computer 2C is in the second state.

  The users of the personal computers 2D and 2E cannot use the licensed program unless the users of the personal computers 2A to 2C end the usage of the licensed program. For example, when the personal computer 2E outputs an execution request for the licensed program to the server computer 1, the server computer 1 outputs first information regarding the license status to the personal computers 2A and 2B in the first state. The first information is displayed on the display units of the personal computers 2A and 2B. On the other hand, the server computer 1 outputs the second information related to the permission status to the personal computer 2C in the second state in a form different from the first information. The second information is displayed on the display unit of the personal computer 2C. Details will be described below.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware group of the server computer 1. The server computer 1 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 11, a random access memory (RAM) 12, an input unit 13, a display unit 14, a storage unit 15, a clock unit 18, a communication unit 16, and the like as control units. The CPU 11 is connected to each part of the hardware via the bus 17. The CPU 11 controls each hardware and executes software functions according to the permission program 151P and the control program 15P stored in the storage unit 15.

  The communication unit 16 is a gateway or the like that functions as a firewall, and transmits / receives information to / from the personal computer 2 or another computer (not shown) using HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) or the like. The input unit 13 is an input device such as a mouse and a keyboard or a touch panel. The input unit 13 outputs the received operation information to the CPU 11. The display unit 14 is a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (electroluminescence) display, or the like, and displays various information according to instructions from the CPU 11. The clock unit 18 outputs time information to the CPU 11. The RAM 12 is, for example, SRAM (Static RAM), DRAM (Dynamic RAM), flash memory, or the like. The RAM 12 also functions as a storage unit, and temporarily stores various data generated when the CPU 11 executes various programs.

  The storage unit 15 is, for example, a hard disk or a large capacity memory. The storage unit 15 includes a permission program 151P, a user data file 151, a control program 15P, a permission number file 152, a usage table 153, a file table 154, a standby table 155, and the like. The licensed program 151P stores a program to be executed within the range of the maximum number of licenses stored in the license number file 152. The permission program 151P is, for example, a CAD (Computer Aided Design) program, a text creation program, a spreadsheet program, a file management program, an audio or video editing program, or an accounting support program. In the present embodiment, an example in which the licensed program 151P is a CAD program will be described as an example. The license number file 152 stores the maximum number of licenses. Note that the number of licenses can be set by the operator from the input unit 13 or another computer (not shown) and stored in the license number file 152.

  The user data file 151 stores a file opened by the licensed program 151P. Specifically, a CAD file, a document file, a PDF (Portable Document Format, registered trademark) file, or the like opened by the permission program 151P is stored in association with identification information (hereinafter referred to as a user ID) for specifying a user. Has been. In the present embodiment, the license program 151P and the user data file 151 are stored in the server computer 1 and the personal computer 2 is used as a thin client. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The license program 151P may be installed in the personal computer 2 in advance, and may be executed by the personal computer 2 only when the use permission from the server computer 1 is obtained during use.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a record layout of the usage table 153. The usage table 153 includes a permission ID field, a PCID field, a user ID field, an activation date / time field, a usage state field, and the like. In the permission ID field, identification information for specifying the permission program 151P that is permitted to be executed by permission is stored. In the example of FIG. 3, it is indicated that three users log in and the licensed program 151P identified by the license IDs “01”, “02”, and “03” is being executed. In the PCID field, identification information for specifying the personal computer 2 that is executing the permission program 151P is stored in association with the permission ID. The PCID may be, for example, a computer name, an IP (Internet Protocol) address, or a MAC (Media Access Control) address that is assigned to the personal computer 2 in advance. In the user ID field, identification information for specifying a user who is executing the permission program 151P is stored in association with the permission ID.

  In the activation date and time field, the date and time when each user activated the licensed program 151P is stored in association with the license ID. When the CPU 11 receives a request for starting the permission program 151P from the personal computer 2, the CPU 11 starts the permission program 151P and generates a new permission ID. The PC ID of the personal computer 2 that has output the activation request and the user ID are stored in the usage table 153 in association with the generated permission ID. The CPU 11 refers to the clock unit 18 and stores the activation date / time in the activation date / time field. In the usage status field, the usage status of the license program 151P is stored in association with the license ID. The usage state includes a second state where the license program 151P is activated and the file is not opened (hereinafter referred to as an unopened state) and a first state where the file is opened.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an image of the usage state. FIG. 4A is an explanatory diagram showing an image in an unopened state. When the permission program 151P is executed, a folder group for storing files stored in the user data file 151 is displayed on the left side in a tree structure. Hereinafter, the window shown in FIG. 4A is referred to as a basic screen. When a folder is selected on the basic screen, files in the folder are listed on the right side. Note that the screen example shown in the present embodiment is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in FIG. 4A, a list of CAD files and PDF files is displayed as files. Files opened by the permission program 151P are roughly classified into files that can be edited and files that cannot be edited. Hereinafter, a file that cannot be edited is referred to as a file other than a file that can be edited.

  Files that can be edited are, for example, a CAD file to which write authority is given, a document creation file such as a text file, a presentation slide creation file, or a spreadsheet file. When a file that can be edited is opened, the CPU 11 shifts from an unopened state to an edited state. FIG. 4B is an explanatory diagram showing an image in an editing state. In addition to the basic screen, the display unit 14 displays a CAD editing screen in an editing state. When the CPU 11 shifts to the edit state, it stores “edit” in the use state field.

  Files other than those that can be edited are PDF files, document creation files, presentation slide creation files, spreadsheet files, etc. that do not have write permission or are subject to write restrictions. In addition, a help file, an e-mail file, an image data file, a moving image data file, audio data, a parts list file, or the like that describes operation instructions that are restricted in writing. In the present embodiment, for ease of explanation, an example in which a PDF file is used as a file other than a file that can be edited will be described. When the PDF file without the write authority is opened, the CPU 11 refers to the attribute information of the PDF file and determines whether or not the write restriction is given. When the CPU 11 determines that the write restriction is given, the usage state is changed from the unopened state to the browsing state. Note that the file opened by the licensed program 151P is not limited to a file that operates on the licensed program 151P. In addition, the file may be a file selected and opened from the basic screen for selecting the file of the licensed program 151P and operating on another spreadsheet program or mailer. That is, the file opened by the permission program 151P may be a file that can be selected and opened through the basic screen for selecting a file displayed when the permission program 151P is executed. Hereinafter, a file that operates on the licensed program 151P and a file related to the licensed program 151P including a file that is selected from the basic screen and operates on another program will be referred to.

  FIG. 4C is an explanatory diagram showing a screen image in a browsing state. In addition to the basic screen, the display unit 14 displays a document related to the PDF in the browsing state. When the CPU 11 shifts to the browsing state, the CPU 11 stores “browsing” in the usage state field. As described above, the second state includes a state in which a file that can be edited is opened (editing state) and a state in which a file that cannot be edited is opened (browsing state). In this embodiment, it is determined whether the usage state is “viewing” or “editing” by referring to whether or not a write restriction is given to the file, but the present invention is not limited to this. The CPU 11 may determine whether the usage state is “browsing” or “editing” according to the type of extension of the file.

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a record layout of the file table 154. The file table 154 includes a permission ID field, a user ID field, a file name field, an activation date / time field, a usage state field, and the like. The file table 154 stores the state of the file opened by the user. In the file name field, a file name opened by the corresponding user is stored in association with the permission ID and the user ID. In the activation date / time field, the activation date / time of each file is stored in association with the file name. In the usage status field, the usage status is stored in association with the file name.

  When the CPU 11 receives an instruction to open a file related to the license program 151P from the personal computer 2 after starting the license program 151P, the CPU 11 stores the file name in association with the license ID and the user ID. Further, the CPU 11 refers to the clock unit 18 and stores the start date and time. The CPU 11 refers to the attribute of the file, and stores the usage state “edit” if the user has write authority, and stores “view” otherwise. In the example of FIG. 5, the user with the user ID “U01” opens the file names “XXPDF” and “OOCAD”. The usage status is “Browse” for “XXPDF” and “Edit” for “OOCAD”. When a plurality of files are stored corresponding to the permission ID in the file table 154, the CPU 11 extracts one editing state. The CPU 11 extracts “edit” when “edit” exists among the plurality of usage states. The CPU 11 extracts “browse” when “edit” does not exist among the plurality of usage states. The CPU 11 stores the extracted one usage state in the usage state field of the usage table 153 in association with the license ID.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a record layout of the standby table 155. The standby table 155 stores information related to the personal computer 2 that has output the execution request when the execution request is received after reaching the upper limit number of licenses. The standby table 155 includes a standby ID field, a PCID field, a user ID field, and a standby date / time field. In the standby ID field, a standby ID is stored as identification information for specifying one standby state. In the PCID field, a PCID in a standby state is stored in association with the standby ID. In the user ID field, a user ID in a standby state is stored in association with the standby ID.

  The date and time when the execution request is received is stored in the standby date and time field. When the CPU 11 receives an execution request from the personal computer 2 via the communication unit 16, the CPU 11 refers to the usage table 153 and the license number file 152. The CPU 11 determines whether or not the total number of license IDs stored in the usage table 153 is less than or equal to the number of licenses stored in the license number file 152. If the CPU 11 determines that the total number of license IDs is not less than or equal to the number of licenses, that is, if the CPU 11 determines that an execution request has been received after reaching the number of licenses, it generates a standby ID. The CPU 11 stores the PCID and user ID of the personal computer 2 that has output the execution request in the standby table 155 in association with the standby ID.

  The CPU 11 stores the date and time when the execution request is made in the standby table 155 as the standby date and time with reference to the clock unit 18. In the example of FIG. 6, it can be understood that two users with user IDs “U04” and “U05” are waiting. The files and tables described above are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to this form. Other storage forms may be used as long as the relationship between the data is maintained. Each file or table may be stored in an external database in addition to being stored in the storage unit 15. In this case, the CPU 11 performs a read process or a write process on necessary information from an external database using SQL (Structured Query Language) or the like. In addition, although an example in which processing is executed by one server computer 1 has been described in the present embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this, and distributed processing may be performed by a plurality of server computers (not shown). For example, the permission program 151P and the user data file 151 may be provided in another application server computer (not shown). The application server computer executes various processes associated with the execution of the permission program 151P instead of the server computer 1.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a hardware group of the personal computer 2. The personal computer 2 includes a CPU 21, a RAM 22, an input unit 23, a display unit 24, a storage unit 25, a communication unit 26, a clock unit 28, and the like as control units. The CPU 21 is connected to each part of the hardware via the bus 27. The CPU 21 controls each part of the hardware.

  The input unit 23 is an input device such as a mouse, a keyboard, or a touch panel, and outputs received operation information to the CPU 21. The display unit 24 is a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like, and displays various information according to instructions from the CPU 21. The RAM 22 is, for example, SRAM, DRAM, flash memory or the like. The RAM 22 temporarily stores various data generated when the CPU 21 executes various programs. The communication unit 26 is a wired or wireless LAN card and transmits / receives information to / from the server computer 1 via the communication network N. The clock unit 28 outputs the date and time to the CPU 21. The storage unit 25 is, for example, a hard disk or a large-capacity flash memory.

  Software processing in the above hardware group will be described using a flowchart. 8 and 9 are flowcharts showing the login process. A user who wishes to execute the permission program 151 </ b> P accesses the server computer 1 from the personal computer 2. The user inputs a user ID and password given in advance from the input unit 23. The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives input of a user ID and password from the input unit 23 (step S81). The CPU 21 transmits the user ID, password, PCID, and execution request to the server computer 1 via the communication unit 26 (step S82).

  The CPU 11 receives the user ID, password, PCID, and execution request via the communication unit 16 (step S83). The CPU 11 determines whether or not the received user ID and password match the user ID and password stored in advance in the storage unit 15 (step S84). If the CPU 11 determines that they do not match (NO in step S84), the CPU 11 terminates the processing as an unauthorized access. On the other hand, if the CPU 11 determines that the user ID and the password match (YES in step S84), the process proceeds to step S85.

  The CPU 11 reads the number of license IDs from the usage table 153 and counts the total number of license IDs (step S85). The CPU 11 reads the license number from the license number file 152 (step S86). The CPU 11 determines whether or not the total number of license IDs has reached the number of licenses (step S87). When the CPU 11 determines that the total number of license IDs has not reached the number of licenses (NO in step S87), the CPU 11 transmits usage permission information to the personal computer 2 to permit the use of the license program 151P (step S88). . The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives use permission information (step S89). Thereby, the user of the personal computer 2 can execute the permission program 151P.

  The CPU 11 generates a permission ID (step S91). The CPU 11 stores the PC ID, the user ID, the start date / time, and the usage state in the usage table 153 in association with the license ID (step S92). Since the file is not opened, the usage state is stored as “not opened”. If the CPU 11 determines that the total number of license IDs has reached the number of licenses (YES in step S87), the process proceeds to step S93. Since the CPU 11 has exceeded the number of licenses, it transmits standby information indicating that it cannot be executed at present (step S93). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the standby information (step S94). The CPU 21 displays standby information on the display unit 24. For example, a text sentence such as “The number of licenses has been reached. Many people are using it. Please wait for a while.” Is displayed.

  The CPU 11 of the server computer 1 generates a standby ID (step S95). The CPU 11 stores the PCID, user ID, and standby date / time in the standby table 155 in association with the standby ID (step S96).

  10 and 11 are flowcharts showing the usage state storage processing procedure. After allowing the personal computer 2 to log in, the CPU 11 stores the usage state of the usage table 153 as “not opened” as described in step S92 (step S101). A user who can use the permission program 151 </ b> P selects a file desired to be used from the input unit 23 of the personal computer 2. The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 outputs a start command for the file selected from the input unit 23 to the server computer 1 via the communication unit 26 (step S102).

  The CPU 11 of the server computer 1 receives a file activation command via the communication unit 16. The CPU 11 starts up the selected file with reference to the user data file 151 (step S103). The CPU 11 extracts the attribute of the activated file. Based on the extracted attribute, the CPU 11 determines whether the activated file can be edited (step S104). If the CPU 11 determines that editing is possible (YES in step S104), “edit” is stored in the file table 154 as the user ID, file name, activation date and time, and usage status in association with the permission ID (step S105). ).

  If the CPU 11 determines that the file is not editable (NO in step S104), it stores “view” in the file table 154 as the user ID, the file name, the start date and time, and the usage state in association with the permission ID (step S104). S106). After steps S105 and S106, the process proceeds to step S107. The CPU 11 determines whether another open file exists for the same user with reference to the file table 154 (step S107). If there is no other open file (NO in step S107), the CPU 11 stores the usage state of the file table 154 in association with the permission ID (step S108).

  If the CPU 11 determines that there are other open files (YES in step S107), the CPU 11 refers to the file table 154 and determines whether or not there is at least one file in the usage status “edit” in the same permission ID. Is determined (step S109). If the CPU 11 determines that a file with the usage status “edit” exists (YES in step S109), the CPU 11 stores the usage status “edit” in the usage table 153 in association with the permission ID (step S111). On the other hand, if the CPU 11 determines that there is no file with the usage status “edit” (NO in step S109), the CPU 11 stores the usage status “browsing” in the usage table 153 in association with the permission ID (step S112). ). As a result, when a plurality of files are open and the usage status of at least one file is “edit”, the usage status of the usage table 153 is “view”. The storage process of the file usage state in the usage table 153 or the file table 154 may be performed every time the file is opened or closed. In addition, when it is determined in step S87 that the total number of license IDs has reached the number of licenses, the usage state may be determined by referring to the attributes of the files opened by each personal computer 2.

  12 and 13 are flowcharts showing the procedure of the notification process. When it is determined in step S87 that the total number of license IDs has reached the number of licenses, the following processing is executed to promote the end of use of the license program 151P of the currently logged-in user. The CPU 11 refers to the usage table 153 and extracts a PCID that is identification information of the usage state “edit” (step S121). Note that a user ID as identification information may be extracted instead of the PCID. The CPU 11 refers to the usage table 153 and extracts the PCID of the usage status “browsing” (step S122). The CPU 11 refers to the usage table 153 and extracts the PCID in the usage state “unopened” (step S123). As a result, the usage statuses and PCIDs of all logged-in users are extracted. Note that the order of steps S121 to S123 is not limited to this, and the order may be changed as appropriate.

  The CPU 11 reads out notification information corresponding to the usage state “not open” from the storage unit 15 (step S124). The CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the usage state “not open” to the PCID in the usage state “not open” (step S125). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the notification information corresponding to the usage state “not opened” (step S126). The CPU 21 displays notification information corresponding to the usage state “not open” on the display unit 24 (step S127).

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a display image of notification information. The notification information is stored in advance in the storage unit 15 for each usage state. For example, a text sentence such as “There is a waiting user. Do you want to exit?” Pops up. Note that the output of the notification information is merely an example, and is not limited to this as long as it differs depending on the usage state. In the present embodiment, an example in which a text sentence is displayed on the display unit 24 of the personal computer 2 as the information regarding the permission status will be described. In addition, although the form output to the display part 24 is shown, what is necessary is just to output some information, and it is not restricted to this. For example, the CPU 21 may output notification information by voice from a speaker (not shown). In addition, the CPU 21 may blink a light-emitting element such as an LED (Light-Emitting Diode) (not shown) at a predetermined cycle according to the usage state. Furthermore, you may operate the vibration motor which is not shown in figure with the rhythm according to a utilization state.

  The CPU 11 reads out notification information corresponding to the usage state “browsing” from the storage unit 15 (step S128). The CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the usage state “browsing” to the PCID of the usage state “browsing” (step S129). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives notification information corresponding to the usage state “browsing” (step S131). The CPU 21 displays notification information corresponding to the usage state “browsing” on the display unit 24 (step S132).

  FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a display image of notification information. The notification information in the usage state “browsing” may be displayed as shown in FIG. 15, for example. The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 pops up a text sentence such as “There is a waiting user. Please exit as soon as possible” as notification information on the display unit 24. In addition, you may display in the window concerning the basic screen of permission program 151P, or the window of the open file, without displaying as a pop-up.

  The CPU 11 reads out notification information corresponding to the usage state “edit” from the storage unit 15 (step S133). The CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the usage state “edit” to the PCID of the usage state “edit” (step S134). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the notification information corresponding to the usage state “edit” (step S135). The CPU 21 displays notification information corresponding to the usage state “edit” on the display unit 24 (step S136).

  FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a display image of notification information. The notification information in the usage state “browsing” may be displayed as shown in FIG. 16, for example. The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 displays a text sentence such as “There is a waiting user” as notification information in the window of the open file. Note that the CPU 21 may display notification information in the windows of all files when a plurality of files are open. In addition, the CPU 21 may pop up notification information. In the present embodiment, the notification information is first output to the personal computer 2 in the usage state “unopened”, and then the notification information is output to the personal computer 2 in the usage state “browsing”. Finally, the notification information is output to the personal computer 2 in the usage state “edit”, but the order is not limited. Depending on the design, it may be executed at the same time or in an appropriate order. Further, in the present embodiment, the notification information for the usage states “browsing” and “editing” are in different forms, but the same information may be used.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the file end process. When closing the file, the user performs an operation of closing the file from the input unit 23. The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives an operation signal for closing the file from the input unit 23. The CPU 21 outputs a command to close the file to the server computer 1 (step S171). The CPU 11 of the server computer 1 closes the target file (step S172). The CPU 11 deletes the record corresponding to the file to be closed from the file table 154 (step S173). The CPU 11 determines whether there are any other open files (step S174).

  If the CPU 11 determines that no other open file exists (NO in step S174), the CPU 11 changes the usage status corresponding to the permission ID and PCID in the usage table 153 to “not open” (step S177). If the CPU 11 determines that there are other open files (YES in step S174), the CPU 11 determines whether a file in the usage state “edit” is still open in the file table 154 (step S175). . If the CPU 11 determines that the file having the usage status “edit” does not exist (NO in step S175), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S176.

  The CPU 11 refers to the usage table 153 and changes the usage state corresponding to the PCID related to the personal computer 2 that has output the close command in step S171 to “view” (step S176). If the CPU 11 determines that the file in the usage state “edit” is open (YES in step S175), it skips the process in step S176 and ends the process.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a termination processing procedure of the permission program 151P. When ending the permission program 151P, the user performs an operation for ending the permission program 151P from the input unit 23. The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives an operation signal for ending the permission program 151P from the input unit 23. CPU21 outputs the command which complete | finishes permission program 151P to the server computer 1 (step S181). The CPU 11 of the server computer 1 closes all open files (step S182). The CPU 11 deletes the record corresponding to the PCID of the personal computer 2 that has output the end command from the file table 154 (step S183). If the file is not open, it is not necessary to perform the processes in steps S182 and S183.

  The CPU 11 deletes the record corresponding to the PCID from the usage table 153 (step S184). The CPU 11 reads the PCID related to the waiting personal computer 2 from the waiting table 155 (step S185). The CPU 11 transmits guidance information indicating that the permission program 151P can be executed to the read PCID (step S186). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the guidance information (step S187). CPU21 displays guidance information on the display part 24 (step S188). Accordingly, it is possible to promote the termination of the permission program 151P in accordance with the opening / closing of the file related to the permission program 151P or the file type.

Embodiment 2
The second embodiment relates to a form in which the permission program 151P is terminated after a predetermined time has elapsed. FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware group of the server computer 1 according to the second embodiment. A time table 156 is newly provided. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing a record layout of the time table 156. Time table 156 includes a first time field, a second time field, and a third time field. The first time field stores 10 minutes, the second time field stores 20 minutes, and the third time field stores 30 minutes. The stored contents of the time table 156 can be appropriately changed by the operator from the input unit 13 or an external computer (not shown).

  When the CPU 11 has not received an operation signal from the input unit 23 of the personal computer 2 in the usage state “unopened” for a first time (10 minutes in this example) after sending the notification information, the CPU 11 is forced to execute the permission program 151P being executed. To finish. When the CPU 11 has not received an operation signal for more than the second time (20 minutes in this example) from the input unit 23 of the personal computer 2 in the usage state “browsing” after transmitting the notification information, the CPU 11 is forced to execute the permission program 151P being executed. finish. Similarly, after the notification information is transmitted, if the CPU 11 has not received an operation signal for more than the second time (30 minutes in this example) from the input unit 23 of the personal computer 2 in the usage state “edit”, the license program 151P being executed is displayed. Force exit. Note that the numerical values described in the present embodiment are merely examples and are not limited thereto. Further, an example in which the time is lengthened in the order of the first time, the second time, and the third time will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. All may be the same time. Further, the second time and the third time may be equal to each other, and the first time may be shorter than the second time and the third time.

  21 to 24 are flowcharts showing the procedure of the end process. The CPU 11 determines whether or not the output of the notification information described in the first embodiment is addressed to the PCID in the usage state “unopened” (step S211). When the CPU 11 determines that the PCID is in the usage state “not open” (YES in step S211), the CPU 11 reads the first time from the time table 156 (step S212). The CPU 11 determines whether or not an operation signal has been received from the input unit 23 of the personal computer 2 corresponding to the PCID that has output the notification information (step S213). If the CPU 11 determines that an operation signal has been received (YES in step S213), the process ends.

  If the CPU 11 determines that an operation signal has not been received (NO in step S213), it determines whether a standby ID is stored in the standby table 155 (step S214). If it is determined that the standby ID is not stored (NO in step S214), the process is ended because it is no longer necessary to end the process. If the CPU 11 determines that the standby ID is stored (YES in step S214), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the first time has elapsed (step S215). When the CPU 11 determines that the first time or more has not elapsed (NO in step S215), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S213 and repeats the above processing.

  When the CPU 11 determines that the first time has elapsed (YES in step S215), the CPU 11 reads end warning information from the storage unit 15 (step S216). The end warning information is, for example, a text sentence such as “Soon to end the licensed program” or voice data. In addition, the signal etc. which operate the vibration motor which is not illustrated of the personal computer 2 may be sufficient. In the present embodiment, an example in which a text sentence is displayed on the display unit 24 will be described. The CPU 11 outputs end warning information to the personal computer 2 addressed to the PCID (step S217).

  The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the end warning information (step S218). The CPU 21 displays end warning information on the display unit 24 (step S219). The CPU 11 of the server computer 1 further determines whether or not an operation signal has been received from the input unit 23 of the personal computer 2 for a predetermined time read from the storage unit 15 (step S221). This fixed time may be set to 1 minute, for example. If the CPU 11 determines that an operation signal has been received for a predetermined time (NO in step S221), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation signal has not been received for a certain period of time (YES in step S221), the CPU 11 outputs an end command and ends the permission program 151P (step S222).

  The CPU 11 reads end information from the storage unit 15 (step S223). The end information is, for example, a text sentence such as “The licensed program has been terminated because there has been no operation for a certain period of time” or voice data. In addition, the signal etc. which operate the vibration motor which is not illustrated of the personal computer 2 may be sufficient. In the present embodiment, an example in which a text sentence is displayed on the display unit 24 will be described. The CPU 11 outputs end information to the personal computer 2 addressed to the PCID (step S224). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the end information (step S225). The CPU 21 displays end information on the display unit 24 (step S226). The processing after the end of the licensed program 151P is as described in steps S182 to S188, and thus description thereof is omitted. In this embodiment, the end warning information or the end information is output as an end command in advance. However, these processes may be omitted.

  When the CPU 11 determines that it is not addressed to the PCID in the usage state “not open” (NO in step S211), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S227. The CPU 11 determines whether or not the output of the notification information is addressed to the PCID in the usage state “browsing” (step S227). If the CPU 11 determines that the PCID is in the usage state “browsing” (YES in step S227), the CPU 11 reads the second time from the time table 156 (step S228). The CPU 11 determines whether an operation signal has been received from the input unit 23 of the personal computer 2 corresponding to the PCID that has output the notification information (step S229). If the CPU 11 determines that an operation signal has been received (YES in step S229), the process ends.

  If the CPU 11 determines that it has not received an operation signal (NO in step S229), it determines whether a standby ID is stored in the standby table 155 (step S231). If the CPU 11 determines that the standby ID is not stored (NO in step S231), the CPU 11 ends the process because it is no longer necessary to end the process. When determining that the standby ID is stored (YES in step S231), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the second time has elapsed (step S232). When the CPU 11 determines that the second time or more has not elapsed (NO in step S232), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S229 and repeats the above processing.

  If the CPU 11 determines that the second time or more has elapsed (YES in step S232), the CPU 11 reads end warning information from the storage unit 15 (step S233). The CPU 11 outputs end warning information to the personal computer 2 addressed to the PCID (step S234).

  The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the end warning information (step S235). The CPU 21 displays end warning information on the display unit 24 (step S236). The CPU 11 of the server computer 1 further determines whether or not the operation signal has been received from the input unit 23 of the personal computer 2 for a predetermined time read from the storage unit 15 (step S237). If the CPU 11 determines that an operation signal has been received for a predetermined time (NO in step S237), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation signal has not been received for a certain period of time (YES in step S237), the CPU 11 outputs an end command and ends the permission program 151P (step S238).

  The CPU 11 reads end information from the storage unit 15 (step S239). The CPU 11 outputs the end information to the personal computer 2 addressed to the PCID (step S240). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the end information (step S241). The CPU 21 displays end information on the display unit 24 (step S242).

  When the CPU 11 determines that the output of the notification information is not addressed to the PCID in the usage state “browsing” (NO in step S227), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S243. The CPU 11 reads out the third time from the time table 156 (step S243). The CPU 11 determines whether an operation signal has been received from the input unit 23 of the personal computer 2 corresponding to the PCID that has output the notification information (step S244). If the CPU 11 determines that an operation signal has been received (YES in step S244), the process ends.

  If the CPU 11 determines that it has not received an operation signal (NO in step S244), it determines whether a standby ID is stored in the standby table 155 (step S245). If the CPU 11 determines that the standby ID is not stored (NO in step S245), the CPU 11 ends the process because it is no longer necessary to end the process. When determining that the standby ID is stored (YES in step S245), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the third time or more has elapsed (step S246). When the CPU 11 determines that the third time or more has not elapsed (NO in step S246), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S244 and repeats the above processing.

  If the CPU 11 determines that the third time has elapsed (YES in step S246), the CPU 11 reads end warning information from the storage unit 15 (step S247). The CPU 11 outputs end warning information to the personal computer 2 addressed to the PCID (step S248).

  The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the end warning information (step S249). The CPU 21 displays end warning information on the display unit 24 (step S2410). The CPU 11 of the server computer 1 further determines whether or not an operation signal has been received from the input unit 23 of the personal computer 2 for a certain time read from the storage unit 15 (step S2411). If the CPU 11 determines that an operation signal has been received for a predetermined time (NO in step S2411), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that an operation signal has not been received for a certain period of time (YES in step S2411), the CPU 11 outputs an end command and ends the permission program 151P (step S2412). At this time, the CPU 11 may terminate the permission program 151P after saving the editing contents of the file in the editing state in the user data file 151.

  The CPU 11 reads end information from the storage unit 15 (step S2413). The CPU 11 outputs the end information to the personal computer 2 addressed to the PCID (step S2414). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the end information (step S2415). The CPU 21 displays end information on the display unit 24 (step S2416). As a result, the permission program 151P can be terminated in accordance with the opening / closing of the file related to the permission program 151P or the file type.

  The second embodiment is as described above, and the other parts are the same as those of the first embodiment. Therefore, the corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

Embodiment 3
The third embodiment relates to a mode in which notification information is output step by step. 25 to 27 are flowcharts showing the procedure of the notification information output process. Similar to step S125 of the first embodiment, the CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the usage state “unopened” to the PCID of the usage state “unopened” (step S251). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the notification information corresponding to the usage state “unopened” (step S252). The CPU 21 displays notification information corresponding to the usage state “not open” on the display unit 24 (step S253).

  The CPU 11 reads the number of license IDs from the usage table 153 and counts the total number of license IDs (step S254). The CPU 11 reads the number of licenses from the license number file 152 (step S255). The CPU 11 determines whether or not the total number of license IDs has reached the number of licenses (step S256). If the CPU 11 determines that the total number of license IDs has not reached the number of licenses (NO in step S256), the CPU 11 terminates the process because notification is no longer necessary for the user who is viewing or editing the file. If the CPU 11 determines that the total number of license IDs has reached the number of licenses (YES in step S256), the process proceeds to step S257.

  Next, the CPU 11 determines whether a software execution request is still received, that is, whether there is a user in a standby state. Specifically, the CPU 11 refers to the standby file 155 and determines whether or not a standby ID exists (step S257). If the CPU 11 determines that there is no standby ID (NO in step S257), there is no standby user, and no longer needs to be notified to a user who is viewing or editing a file, and the process is terminated. On the other hand, if the CPU 11 determines that a standby ID exists (YES in step S257), the process proceeds to step S258.

  The CPU 11 reads out notification information corresponding to the usage state “browsing” from the storage unit 15 (step S258). The CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the usage state “browsing” to the PCID of the usage state “browsing” (step S259). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the notification information corresponding to the usage state “browsing” (step S261). The CPU 21 displays notification information corresponding to the usage state “browsing” on the display unit 24 (step S262).

  The CPU 11 reads the number of license IDs from the usage table 153 and counts the total number of license IDs (step S263). The CPU 11 reads the number of licenses from the license number file 152 (step S264). The CPU 11 determines whether or not the total number of license IDs has reached the number of licenses (step S265). If the CPU 11 determines that the total number of license IDs has not reached the number of licenses (NO in step S265), a large number of users log out and no longer need to notify the user who is editing the file. finish. If the CPU 11 determines that the total number of license IDs has reached the number of licenses (YES in step S265), the process proceeds to step S266.

  The CPU 11 refers to the standby file 155 to determine whether or not a standby ID exists (step S266). If the CPU 11 determines that the standby ID does not exist (NO in step S266), the standby user does not exist, and the user who no longer edits the file no longer needs to be notified, so the process ends. On the other hand, if the CPU 11 determines that a standby ID exists (YES in step S266), the process proceeds to step S267.

  The CPU 11 reads out notification information corresponding to the usage state “edit” from the storage unit 15 (step S267). The CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the usage state “edit” to the PCID of the usage state “edit” (step S268). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the notification information corresponding to the usage state “edit” (step S269). The CPU 21 displays notification information corresponding to the usage state “edit” on the display unit 24 (step S271). As a result, the notification information is first output to the user who is in the usage state “unopened” where many logouts are expected. If there is a user who is still waiting for the output of the notification information, the notification information is output to the user in the usage state “view” or “edit”. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the use of the licensed program 151P of the user in the usage state “viewing” or “editing” from being hindered. Note that the processing in steps S263 to S266 described in this embodiment may not be executed. In this case, the notification information is transmitted to the personal computer 2 related to the usage state “viewing” and the usage state “edit” at the same timing.

  The third embodiment is as described above, and the others are the same as in the first and second embodiments. Therefore, the corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

Embodiment 4
Embodiment 4 relates to a mode in which the content of notification information is changed according to the number of standby IDs. FIG. 28 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware group of the server computer 1 according to the fourth embodiment. A standby level table 157 is newly provided. FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing a record layout of the standby level table 157. The standby level table 157 includes a threshold value field and a notification information field for each usage state. In the threshold field, a number used for comparison with the number of standby IDs is stored. For example, the first threshold is stored as 5, the second threshold is stored as 10, and so on. These numerical values are examples, and an operator may input appropriate values from the input unit 13 or another computer (not shown) and store them in the standby level table 157.

  In the notification information field, the type of notification information is stored for each usage state and threshold value. For example, when the number of execution requests of the licensed program 151P is less than the first threshold, that is, when the number of standby IDs stored in the standby table 155 is less than the first threshold, notification information is described as described in the above embodiment. Output. Specifically, the CPU 11 refers to the standby level table 157 and outputs notification information corresponding to “not opened” to the personal computer 2 in the usage state “not opened”. Similarly, the CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to “browsing” to the personal computer 2 in the usage state “viewing”, and notification information corresponding to “editing” in the personal computer 2 in the usage state “editing”. Output.

  When the number of standby IDs is equal to or greater than the first threshold, the CPU 11 performs processing using the record corresponding to the first threshold in the standby level table 157. Specifically, the CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to “not opened” to the personal computer 2 in the usage state “not opened”. Similarly, the CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to “browsing” to the personal computer 2 in the usage state “browsing”, and notification information corresponding to “browsing” is also output to the personal computer 2 in the usage state “edit”. Output. When the number of standby IDs is equal to or greater than the second threshold, the CPU 11 performs processing using a record corresponding to the second threshold in the standby level table 157. Specifically, the CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to “not opened” to the personal computer 2 in the usage state “not opened”. Similarly, the CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to “not opened” to the personal computer 2 in the usage state “browsing”, and notifies the personal computer 2 corresponding to “not opened” in the usage state “edit”. Output information. Note that the example of the standby level table 157 shown in the present embodiment is an example, and the present invention is not limited to this. When the first threshold value is exceeded, notification information corresponding to “not open” may be output to the personal computer 2 related to all usage states.

  30 and 31 are flowcharts showing the notification information display processing procedure. The CPU 11 reads the standby ID number with reference to the standby table 155 (step S301). The CPU 11 refers to the standby level table 157 to determine whether or not the number of standby IDs is less than the first threshold (step S302). If the CPU 11 determines that it is less than the first threshold (YES in step S302), it outputs notification information corresponding to the usage state “not open” to the PCID in the usage state “not open” (step S303). The CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the usage state “browsing” to the PCID of the usage state “browsing” (step S304). The CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the usage state “edit” to the PCID of the usage state “edit” (step S305).

  The CPU 21 of each personal computer 2 receives each notification information (step S306). The CPU 21 displays notification information on the display unit 24 (step S307). When the CPU 11 determines that the number of standby IDs is not less than the first threshold (NO in step S302), the CPU 11 determines whether or not the number of standby IDs is greater than or equal to the second threshold (step S308). If the CPU 11 determines that the number of standby IDs is greater than or equal to the second threshold (YES in step S308), the CPU 11 reads the type of notification information with reference to the standby level table 157 (step S309). Specifically, the record of the second threshold value in the standby level table 157 is read. The CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the usage status “unopened” to all PCIDs with usage statuses “not opened”, “browsing”, and “editing” (step S311).

  The CPU 21 of each personal computer 2 receives each notification information (step S312). The CPU 21 displays notification information on the display unit 24 (step S313). If the CPU 21 determines that the number of standby IDs is not equal to or greater than the second threshold (NO in step S308), the process proceeds to step S314. The CPU 11 reads the type of notification information with reference to the standby level table 157 (step S314). Specifically, the record of the first threshold value in the standby level table 157 is read. The CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the usage state “not opened” to the PCID having the usage state “not opened” (step S315). The CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the use state “view” to the PC IDs of the use state “view” and “edit” (step S316).

  The CPU 21 of each personal computer 2 receives each notification information (step S317). The CPU 21 displays notification information on the display unit 24 (step S318). As a result, the display of the notification information is changed according to the number of waiting persons, so that the use of the permission program 151P by a plurality of persons can be further promoted according to the actual situation.

  The fourth embodiment is as described above, and the others are the same as in the first to third embodiments. Therefore, the corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

Embodiment 5
The fifth embodiment relates to a processing mode when a conversion process is performed on data related to the licensed program 151P. When the usage state is “editing”, the CPU 11 may execute a conversion process on the data. For example, this is a case where three-dimensional CAD data relating to a file selected from the basic screen of the license program 151P is converted into a different format on the license program 151P.

  FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing a record layout of the usage table 153 according to the fifth embodiment. When a conversion processing command for data is output from the personal computer 2, the CPU 11 sets the usage state to “conversion”. In the example of FIG. 32, the usage state of the PCID “P04” is stored as “conversion”. After completing the conversion process, the CPU 11 returns the usage state “conversion” to “edit”.

  FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram showing a record layout of the file table 154 according to the fifth embodiment. When the CPU 11 receives a conversion processing command for data related to a file in the usage state “edit”, the CPU 11 sets the usage state to “conversion” and stores the data in the file table 154. In the example of FIG. 33, the file name “OOCAD” that was in the usage state “edit” is stored as the usage state “conversion”. When a plurality of files exist and at least one usage state “conversion” exists, the CPU 11 stores the usage state “conversion” in the usage table 153 in association with the permission ID. After completing the conversion, the CPU 11 stores the usage state of the file table 154 as “edit” again. The CPU 11 outputs notification information to the personal computer 2 in the usage state “conversion” in a form different from the usage states “not opened”, “browsing”, and “editing”. For example, an icon indicating that there is a waiting user may be displayed in the window of the licensed program 151P. Note that the notification information may be output in the same form as the usage state “edit” or “view”.

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when a conversion processing command is received. When the user converts data in an edited file, the user inputs a conversion processing command from the input unit 23. CPU21 outputs the conversion process command received from the input part 23 to the server computer 1 via the communication part 26 (step S341). The CPU 11 of the server computer 1 receives the conversion processing command via the communication unit 16 (step S342). CPU11 performs a conversion process (step S343).

  The CPU 11 refers to the permission ID and the file name, and stores the usage state of the file table 154 as “conversion” (step S344). The CPU 11 refers to the permission ID and stores the usage state of the usage table 153 as “conversion” (step S345). The CPU 11 determines whether or not the conversion process has ended (step S346). If the CPU 11 takes time to process the three-dimensional data and determines that the conversion process has not been completed yet (NO in step S346), the CPU 11 waits until the conversion process is completed. When the CPU 11 finishes the conversion process (YES in step S346), the CPU 11 outputs the conversion result to the personal computer 2 and proceeds to step S347. The CPU 11 refers to the permission ID and the file name, and stores the usage status of the file table 154 as “edit” (step S347). The CPU 11 refers to the permission ID and stores the usage state of the usage table 153 as “edit” (step S348).

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a notification information display processing procedure. If it is determined in step S87 that the total number of license IDs has reached the number of licenses, the following processing is executed in parallel with the processing described in FIG. 12 in order to promote the end of use of the licensed program 151P of the currently logged-in user. To do. The CPU 11 refers to the usage table 153 and extracts the PCID of the usage status “conversion” (step S351).

  The CPU 11 reads out notification information corresponding to the usage state “conversion” from the storage unit 15 (step S352). The CPU 11 outputs notification information corresponding to the usage state “conversion” to the PCID of the usage state “conversion” (step S353). The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 receives the notification information corresponding to the usage state “conversion” (step S354). The CPU 21 displays notification information corresponding to the usage state “conversion” on the display unit 24 (step S355).

  FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram showing a display image of notification information. The notification information in the usage state “conversion” may be displayed as shown in FIG. 36, for example. The CPU 21 of the personal computer 2 displays, as notification information, an icon 361 indicating that a standby user exists in any window of the permission program 151P. Note that the CPU 21 may display a text sentence such as “There is a waiting user” as notification information. In addition, the CPU 21 may pop up notification information. As a result, even when the conversion process takes a long time, the information can be notified in a form suitable for the use state without harming the work.

  The fifth embodiment is as described above, and the other parts are the same as those of the first to fourth embodiments. Therefore, the corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

Embodiment 6
FIG. 37 is a block diagram showing a hardware group of the server computer 1 according to the sixth embodiment. A program for operating the server computer 1 is stored by causing a reading unit 10A such as a disk drive to read a portable recording medium 1A such as a CD-ROM, a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) disk, or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. You may memorize | store in the part 15. FIG. Further, a semiconductor memory 1B such as a flash memory storing the program may be mounted in the server computer 1. Further, the program can be downloaded from another server computer (not shown) connected via a communication network N such as the Internet. The contents will be described below.

  The server computer 1 shown in FIG. 37 reads a program for executing the above-described various software processes from the portable recording medium 1A or the semiconductor memory 1B or from another server computer (not shown) via the communication network N. to download. The program is installed as the control program 15P, loaded into the RAM 12, and executed. Thereby, it functions as the server computer 1 described above.

  FIG. 38 is a functional block diagram of the server computer 1. The CPU 11 of the server computer 1 functions as follows by executing the control program 15P. The first extraction unit f1 executes the licensed program 151P that is permitted to execute within the number of licenses stored in the storage unit 15, and extracts identification information related to the first state in which the file is opened by the licensed program 151P. The second extraction unit f2 executes the permission program 151P and extracts identification information related to the second state in which no file is opened by the permission program 151P. When the first output unit f3 receives an execution request for the licensed program 151P from another computer after reaching the number of licenses, the first output unit f3 refers to the identification information related to the first state extracted by the first extraction unit f1. 1 information is output. When the second output unit f4 receives an execution request for the licensed program 151P after reaching the number of licenses, the second output unit f4 refers to the identification information related to the second state extracted by the second extraction unit f2, and sets the second information The first information is output in a different form.

  FIG. 39 is a functional block diagram of the server computer 1. The CPU 11 of the server computer 1 functions as follows by executing the control program 15P. The control unit f11 permits the first terminal device and the second terminal device to execute the license program 151P in which the number of licenses to be executed simultaneously is set. The storage unit f12 executes the permission program 151P, and executes identification program information for the first state in which the file is opened by the permission program 151P, the permission program 151P, and does not open the file by the permission program 151P. The identification information concerning the second state is stored. The extraction unit f13 extracts the identification information related to the first state and the identification information related to the second state from the storage unit f12. When the first output unit f14 receives an execution request for the licensed program 151P from the third terminal device after reaching the number of licenses, the first output unit f14 transmits the request to the first terminal device corresponding to the identification information related to the first state. The first information is output. When the second output unit f15 receives an execution request for the licensed program 151P after reaching the number of licenses, the second output unit f15 sends the second information to the second terminal device corresponding to the identification information related to the second state. Output in a form different from the first information.

  The sixth embodiment is as described above, and the other parts are the same as those of the first to fifth embodiments. Accordingly, the corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The following additional notes are further disclosed with respect to the embodiments including the first to sixth embodiments.

(Appendix 1)
In a program used in a computer that processes information,
On the computer,
While executing software permitted to execute within the number of licenses stored in the storage unit, the control unit extracts identification information related to the first state in which the file is opened by the software,
While executing the software, the control unit extracts identification information related to a second state in which the file is not opened by the software,
When a software execution request is received from another computer after reaching the permitted number, the extracted identification information related to the first state is referred to, and the control unit outputs the first information,
When a software execution request is received after the number of licenses is reached, the extracted identification information relating to the second state is referred to, and the control unit outputs the second information in a form different from the first information A program that executes processing.

(Appendix 2)
In the process of extracting the identification information according to the first state, the identification information according to the editing state in which the editable file is opened and the identification information according to the first state when the file that is not editable is opened Extracted by the control unit,
The first information is output in a different form between the identification information relating to the editing state extracted by the control unit and the identification information relating to the first state when the non-editable file is opened. program.

(Appendix 3)
After outputting the second information with reference to the identification information related to the second state, it is determined whether the control unit has received operation information corresponding to the identification information related to the second state,
The program according to appendix 1 or appendix 2, wherein when it is determined that operation information is not received within a predetermined time, the control unit outputs a software end command with reference to the identification information.

(Appendix 4)
After the first information is output with reference to the identification information related to the first state when the non-editable file is opened, the control unit accepts operation information corresponding to the identification information related to the first state Determine whether or not
The program according to claim 3, wherein when it is determined that operation information has not been received within a first predetermined time longer than the predetermined time, the control unit outputs a software end instruction with reference to the identification information.

(Appendix 5)
After outputting the first information with reference to the identification information related to the editing state, it is determined whether or not operation information corresponding to the identification information related to the editing state is received by the control unit,
The program according to appendix 4, wherein, when it is determined that operation information is not received within a second predetermined time longer than the first predetermined time, the control unit refers to the identification information and outputs a software end instruction. .

(Appendix 6)
When outputting the first information,
After outputting the second information, it is determined whether the number of licenses has been reached and whether an execution request for software has been received,
When it is determined that the number of licenses has been reached and a software execution request has been received, the extracted identification information relating to the first state is referred to, and the control unit outputs the first information. 2. The program according to 2.

(Appendix 7)
When outputting the first information,
After outputting the second information, it is determined whether the number of licenses has been reached and whether an execution request for software has been received,
When it is determined that the number of licenses has been reached and an execution request for software is received, the control unit refers to the identification information related to the first state when the extracted non-editable file is opened. To output the first information,
After outputting the first information, it is determined whether the number of licenses has been reached and whether an execution request for software has been received,
The control unit outputs the first information by referring to the extracted identification information related to the editing state when it is determined that the number of licenses has been reached and a software execution request has been received. program.

(Appendix 8)
The program according to appendix 1 or 2, wherein when outputting the second information, the second information related to the permission status is output to another computer corresponding to the extracted identification information relating to the second state.

(Appendix 9)
When outputting the second information, the second information regarding the permission status is output to another computer corresponding to the extracted identification information relating to the second state,
When outputting the first information, to another computer corresponding to the extracted identification information related to the editing state and to another computer corresponding to the identification information related to the first state when the non-editable file is opened. The program according to attachment 2, wherein the first information related to the permission status is output in a different form.

(Appendix 10)
Count the number of software execution requests,
When the counted value exceeds the threshold value stored in the storage unit, the identification information related to the extracted editing state and the identification information related to the first state when the file that is not editable is opened, and The program according to attachment 2, wherein the control unit outputs the first information in the same form.

(Appendix 11)
The control unit extracts identification information relating to a third state in which the software is executed and conversion processing is performed on data related to the software,
When a software execution request is received after the number of licenses is reached, the extracted identification information related to the third state is referred to, and the control unit changes the third information related to the license status to a form different from the first information. The program according to appendix 1.

(Appendix 12)
In a computer that processes information,
A first extraction unit that executes software permitted to be executed within the number of licenses stored in the storage unit, and extracts identification information relating to a first state in which the file is opened by the software;
A second extraction unit that executes the software and extracts identification information relating to a second state in which no file is opened by the software;
A first output that outputs first information with reference to the identification information related to the first state extracted by the first extraction unit when a software execution request is received from another computer after reaching the number of licenses And
When a software execution request is received after the number of licenses has been reached, the second information is referred to the identification information related to the second state extracted by the second extraction unit, and the second information is different from the first information. And a second output unit for outputting.

(Appendix 13)
In an information processing method for processing information by a computer having a control unit,
While executing software permitted to execute within the number of licenses stored in the storage unit, the control unit extracts identification information related to the first state in which the file is opened by the software,
While executing the software, the control unit extracts identification information related to a second state in which the file is not opened by the software,
When a software execution request is received from another computer after reaching the permitted number, the extracted identification information related to the first state is referred to, and the control unit outputs the first information,
When a software execution request is received after the number of licenses is reached, the extracted identification information relating to the second state is referred to, and the control unit outputs the second information in a form different from the first information Information processing method.

(Appendix 14)
In a communication system in which a central device and a plurality of terminal devices are connected via a communication network,
The central device is
A control unit that permits the first terminal device and the second terminal device to execute software set with the number of licenses to be executed simultaneously;
A storage unit that executes the software and stores identification information related to the first state in which the file is opened by the software, and identification information related to the second state in which the software is executed and the file is not opened by the software When,
An extraction unit that extracts identification information according to the first state and identification information according to the second state from the storage unit;
When the software execution request is received from the third terminal device after reaching the permitted number, the first information is output to the first terminal device corresponding to the identification information related to the first state. An output section;
When a software execution request is received after reaching the permitted number, the second information is output in a form different from the first information to the second terminal device corresponding to the identification information related to the second state. And a second output unit.

(Appendix 15)
The storage unit
The communication system according to appendix 14, wherein identification information for specifying a terminal device or a user using software and the first state or the second state are stored in association with each other.

1 server computer 1A portable recording medium 1B semiconductor memory 11 CPU
12 RAM
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 13 Input part 14 Display part 15 Memory | storage part 15P Control program 16 Communication part 18 Clock part 2, 2A-2E Personal computer 21 CPU
22 RAM
23 Input unit 24 Display unit 25 Storage unit 26 Communication unit 28 Clock unit 151 User data file 151P Licensed program 152 Licensed number file 153 Usage table 154 File table 155 Standby table 156 Time table 157 Standby level table N Communication network

Claims (13)

In a program used in a computer that processes information,
On the computer,
While executing software permitted to execute within the number of licenses stored in the storage unit, the control unit extracts identification information related to the first state in which the file is opened by the software,
While executing the software, the control unit extracts identification information related to a second state in which the file is not opened by the software,
When a software execution request is received from another computer after reaching the permitted number, the extracted identification information related to the first state is referred to, and the control unit outputs the first information,
When a software execution request is received after the number of licenses is reached, the extracted identification information relating to the second state is referred to, and the control unit outputs the second information in a form different from the first information A program that executes processing. In the process of extracting the identification information according to the first state, the identification information according to the editing state in which the editable file is opened and the identification information according to the first state when the file that is not editable is opened Extracted by the control unit,
The first information is output in a different form between identification information relating to the editing state extracted by the control unit and identification information relating to the first state when the non-editable file is opened. Program. After outputting the second information with reference to the identification information related to the second state, it is determined whether the control unit has received operation information corresponding to the identification information related to the second state,
If it is determined that not received the operation information within a predetermined time, by referring to the identification information, a program according to claim 1 which outputs an end instruction of the software by the control unit. After outputting the second information with reference to the identification information related to the second state, it is determined whether the control unit has received operation information corresponding to the identification information related to the second state,
When it is determined that the operation information is not received within a predetermined time, the control unit outputs a software end command with reference to the identification information
The program according to claim 2. After the first information is output with reference to the identification information related to the first state when the non-editable file is opened, the control unit accepts operation information corresponding to the identification information related to the first state Determine whether or not
The program according to claim 4 , wherein when it is determined that operation information has not been received within a first predetermined time longer than the predetermined time, the control unit outputs a software end instruction with reference to the identification information. When outputting the first information,
After outputting the second information, it is determined whether the number of licenses has been reached and whether an execution request for software has been received,
When it is determined that the number of licenses has been reached and a software execution request has been received, the extracted identification information relating to the first state is referred to, and the control unit outputs the first information
The program according to claim 1 or 2. When outputting the first information,
After outputting the second information, it is determined whether the number of licenses has been reached and whether an execution request for software has been received,
When it is determined that the number of licenses has been reached and an execution request for software is received, the control unit refers to the identification information related to the first state when the extracted non-editable file is opened. To output the first information,
After outputting the first information, it is determined whether the number of licenses has been reached and whether an execution request for software has been received,
When it is determined that the number of licenses has been reached and that an execution request for software has been received, the identification information relating to the extracted editing state is referred to, and the first information is output by the control unit
The program according to claim 2. In a computer that processes information,
A storage unit that stores the number of licenses that can be executed simultaneously in association with software;
The identification information relating to the first state in which the software is executed within the number of licenses stored in the storage unit and the file is opened by the software, and the identification information relating to the second state where the file is not opened by the software A control unit for extracting,
When an execution request for the software is received from another computer after the number of the software being executed reaches the permitted number, the first computer specified by the identification information according to the first state is first A communication unit that outputs information and outputs the second information in a form different from the first information to the second computer specified by the identification information related to the second state;
Computer further comprising a. In an information processing method for processing information by a computer having a control unit,
While executing software permitted to execute within the number of licenses stored in the storage unit, the control unit extracts identification information related to the first state in which the file is opened by the software,
While executing the software, the control unit extracts identification information related to a second state in which the file is not opened by the software,
When a software execution request is received from another computer after reaching the permitted number, the extracted identification information related to the first state is referred to, and the control unit outputs the first information,
When a software execution request is received after the number of licenses is reached, the extracted identification information relating to the second state is referred to, and the control unit outputs the second information in a form different from the first information Information processing method. In a communication system in which a central device and a plurality of terminal devices are connected via a communication network,
The central device is
A control unit that permits the first terminal device and the second terminal device to execute software set with the number of licenses to be executed simultaneously;
A storage unit that executes the software and stores identification information related to the first state in which the file is opened by the software, and identification information related to the second state in which the software is executed and the file is not opened by the software When,
An extraction unit that extracts identification information according to the first state and identification information according to the second state from the storage unit;
When the software execution request is received from the third terminal device after reaching the permitted number, the first information is output to the first terminal device corresponding to the identification information related to the first state. An output section;
When a software execution request is received after reaching the permitted number, the second information is output in a form different from the first information to the second terminal device corresponding to the identification information related to the second state. And a second output unit. In a program used in a computer that processes information,
On the computer,
The software permitted to be executed is executed within the number of licenses stored in the storage unit, and the identification information related to the first state among the states classified into a plurality of usage states of the software, and the plurality of classified information The identification information related to the second state among the states is extracted by the control unit,
When the software execution request is received from another computer after the number of the software being executed reaches the permitted number, the first computer specified by the extracted identification information related to the first state The control unit outputs the first information, and the control unit outputs the second information in a form different from the first information to the second computer specified by the extracted identification information related to the second state.
A program that executes processing. In a computer that processes information,
A storage unit that stores the number of licenses that can be executed simultaneously in association with software;
The software is executed within the number of licenses stored in the storage unit, and the identification information related to the first state among the states classified as a plurality of usage states of the software, and the state classified into the plurality of states A control unit that extracts identification information related to the second state of the control unit;
When an execution request for the software is received from another computer after the number of the software being executed reaches the permitted number, the first computer specified by the identification information according to the first state is first A communication unit that outputs information and outputs the second information in a form different from the first information to the second computer specified by the identification information related to the second state;
A computer comprising: In a method executed by a computer for processing information,
The software permitted to be executed is executed within the number of licenses stored in the storage unit, and the identification information related to the first state among the states classified into a plurality of usage states of the software, and the plurality of classified information The identification information related to the second state among the states is extracted by the control unit,
When the software execution request is received from another computer after the number of the software being executed reaches the permitted number, the first computer specified by the extracted identification information related to the first state The control unit outputs the first information, and the control unit outputs the second information in a form different from the first information to the second computer specified by the extracted identification information related to the second state.
An information processing method characterized by the above.

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