BR112012028642B1 - METHOD IN A MEDIA PLAYER AND MEDIA PLAYER - Google Patents

Abstract

registration and authorization of media in a media player. the disclosed methods and systems provide media registration and authorization on a media player. the method involves keeping a record of registered media. media to be played by the media player is compared with the kept record of registered media. if media is registered, authorization is then required to play the registered media.

Description

Background technical field

The present invention relates to the field of media players. More specifically, the present invention relates to the ability to register media with a player in which registered media requires authorization to be played by the player.

Description of the related technique

Ratings for media content such as DVDs and Blu-ray Discs can range from “G” to “X”, although some content is not rated at all (NR). A family with children may have several “G” or “PG” rated DVDs or Blu-ray Discs that are often viewed and can be loaded into a player and played by the children, sometimes without adult supervision. However, adults may also rent or own DVDs or Blu-ray Discs that are inappropriate for children and may be accidentally or intentionally carried and played by children.

While media players such as DVD or Blu-ray players typically have parental control features to prevent content with a certain rating from being viewed, it is typically not used due to the complexity of editing and the wide range of content in a single rating category. For example, some movies are rated “PG” or “PG13” but may still contain some level of profanity, nudity, or violence that may be objectionable to children. Additionally, some families may have DVDs, Blu-ray discs, or other media in their library that have controversial subject matter that they do not want certain family members to see.

Since some media may contain subject matter that is inappropriate despite its rating, it is advantageous to be able to control which media is playable based on the media itself and not the media rating.

summary

Under a modality, a method is provided for authorizing the reproduction of the media based on the registration of the media. This involves keeping a record of registered media. Media to be played can then be compared to the kept record of registered media. If media is registered, authorization is required to play the registered media.

With this methodology, media such as DVD or Blu-ray discs containing objectionable content content can be prevented from playing regardless of the media's rating.

According to another modality, a media system is provided for authorizing the reproduction of the media based on the media registration. The system involves a reader, a processor, storage and an output interface. The player is configured to read media to play through the media player. The processor is configured to keep a record of registered media, compare media with the kept record of registered media, and require authorization to play registered media. Storage is for storing the kept record of registered media. The output interface is configured to play content from authorized media.

According to another modality, a method is provided to register media with a media player. First, a selection of media to be registered is received. Then the selected media received is registered. After registration, authorization is required to reproduce the registered media.

Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1A is a diagram representing one embodiment of a DVD system typically operated and viewed from a location.

Figure 1B is a diagram representing an embodiment of a MEDIA system that can be operated from more than one location and can distribute content to more than one location.

Figure 2 is a useful block diagram representing the elements of a system according to a modality.

Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a methodology according to a modality.

Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating additional steps of a methodology according to a modality.

Figure 5A is a flowchart illustrating additional steps of a methodology according to another embodiment.

Figure 5B is a diagram that represents a screen menu referring to the flowchart of figure 5A.

Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating additional steps of a methodology according to a modality.

Detailed Description

The methodologies, systems and teachings revealed here can be incorporated into a media player who is able to have media registered with the player. After media registration, authorization is required to play the registered media.

In the examples described here, the term "media" is used to refer to the storage medium used to distribute content. The term “media” is intended to include all such storage media or used for storing and distributing content as well as data files provided on such storage media. Thus, “media” can include optical storage devices such as DVDs or Blu-ray discs; memory devices such as thumb flash drives; and media files like MP4, QuickTime, Windows Media files or similar. The term “media player” refers to devices that are configured to play “media”. This can include devices that read physical media such as DVD or Blu-ray players; other devices that can download, store, stream, or otherwise play media files, such as Apple TV, Roku frequency converter, Vudu frequency converter, iPod, or Zune media player. A “media player” can also be implemented in software such as QuickTime and Windows media player applications.

Figure 1A represents an environment 100 in which a media player with the functionality described here can be employed. At its core is a media player 110. In this mode, the media player 110 is a frequency converter like a DVD player. Media player 110 is connected to a user display device and/or audio system 120 such as a television. The connection between the media player 110 and the television can be a coaxial, RCA, HDMI, or other audiovisual (AV) connection.

In the embodiment of Fig. 1A, the media player 110 is a frequency converter designed to be connected to a user display device and audio system 120 such as a stereo and television system for transmitting media content. However, in other embodiments, media player 110 may be a standalone device that includes its own audio and video playback capabilities, which does not need to be connected to a user display device and/or audio system 120.

Figure 1B represents another environment 130 in which a media player with the functionality described here can be employed. In this example, media player 110 is part of a home network 140. For example, media player 110 could be implemented as a networked DVD Jukebox. In this example, the networked DVD Jukebox 110 is connected to multiple display devices and/or audio systems 120, 122, 124.

In the example of Fig. 1B, the media player 110 is connected to the first display device and/or audio system 120 in a conventional manner as described in Fig. 1A. the media player 110 is connected to the second 122 and third 124 display devices and/or audio systems on a home network 140. In the depicted system, the second display device 122 interfaces with the home network 140 using a signal converter. frequency 150, while the third display device 124 is connected directly to the home network 140. In the case of the second display device 122, the frequency signal converter 160 is connected to the second display device 122 in a conventional way using a coaxial connection. , RCA, HDMI or other AV connection and connected to the DVD 110 using a network connection. In the case of the third display device 124, a coaxial, RCA, conventional HDMI or other AV connection is not used as the third display device 124 has a network connection. Examples of suitable networks include Ethernet or multimedia over coaxial networks (MoCa). Other types of suitable home networks will be evident to a person skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure. In this configuration, for the remotely located display device 122 and 124, commands to control the DVD 110 are received by the frequency converter 150 or display device 124 and are transferred to the DVD 110 via the home network 140.

Figure 2 is a block diagram representing media player elements 110 according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, media player 110 comprises a reader 200, a processor 210, storage 220, and an output interface 230. In some embodiments, the consumer electronic device may further include an input interface 240 and a network interface 250 Each of these elements will be discussed in more detail below.

Reader 200 is configured to access, read and/or decode media. The reader 200 type and configuration depend on the media format. As such, reader 200 can be configured to read physical media such as DVDs and decode media files provided in physical storage. In other modes, where media files are obtained without using a physical storage device, such as downloaded media files, the reader decodes the media files. In certain embodiments, reader 110 is capable of accessing, reading and/or decoding different types of media. For example, the media player may be capable of playing Blu-ray discs and DVDs as well as streaming media over a network. In such a case, reader 200 is able to access, read and/or decode media files from all these sources.

Processor 210 controls the operation of media player 110. Processor 210 runs software that operates media player 110 as well as provides registration and authorization functionality. This includes keeping a record of registered media, and requiring authorization to play registered media. Processor 210 is connected to receiver 200, storage 220, output interface 230 and in some embodiments input interface 240 and network interface 250, and handles the transfer and processing of information between these elements. Processor 210 can be a general processor or a processor dedicated to a specific functionality. In certain modalities there can be multiple processors.

Storage 220 is where software and other information used by the consumer's electronic device is stored. Storage 220 may include volatile memory (RAM), non-volatile memory (EEPROM), magnetic media (hard drive), optical media (CD/DVD-Rom), or flash-based storage. In certain embodiments, storage 220 will typically include memory as well as large-capacity storage such as a rigid unit.

The 230 output interface is configured to provide the media in the correct format for output to a video display or audio device 120. The proper format may include the codec for the content to be played as well as the type of connector used to connect the an external video display device or audio device, or in some modalities, the on-board display or speakers. The 230 output interface can also provide the graphics and menus used to access media and provide information about the media.

In some embodiments, media player 110 may further include an input interface 240. User interface 240 allows the user to interact with media player 110. User interface 240 also allows selection of media for playback and input authorization for the registered media display. User interface 240 can also handle interfacing with the various devices that can be used to enter information, such as remotes, keyboards, etc.

In certain embodiments, media player 110 also includes a network interface 250. The network interface handles media player 110 communicating with other devices over a network. This can include devices on a home network 140 as seen in Figure 1B or internet devices outside of the home network 140. Examples of suitable networks include Ethernet or multimedia over coaxial networks (MoCa). Other types of suitable home networks will be evident to a person skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

It should be understood that the elements shown in Figure 2 are illustrative. Consumer electronics device 110 may include any number of elements and certain elements may provide some or all of the functionality of other elements. For example, much of the functionality of the reader 200, output interface 230, and input interface 240 can be performed by processor 210 or multiple general or dedicated processors. Similarly the network may be implemented connectively separate from the output interface 230 or input interface 240. Another possible implementation will be apparent to a person skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

Figure 3 is a flowchart representing a method 300 for media registration and authorization. At its most basic, the method involves three steps. The first step is to receive and maintain a record of registered media (step 310). Media can then be compared to the record kept of registered media (step 320). If the media is registered, then authorization is required to reproduce the registered media based on the media's registration (step 330). In certain modalities, the method may further include the steps of receiving authorization (step 340) and touching registered media upon receipt of authorization (step 350). Each of these steps will be discussed in more detail below.

In step 310, a registered media record is maintained. Registration includes a listing of all media registered with the media player. In the example where media player 110 is a DVD player, the registration may include all DVDs that are registered with the DVD player. In the example where media player 110 is configured to stream media, the record may include all streaming media files that are registered with media player 110. Record keeping includes storage as well as adding and subtraction of media to and from the registry. An example of this can be seen in figure 4.

In Figure 4, the step of keeping a record of registered media (step 310) is shown comprising the step of receiving a media selection to be registered (step 400) and registering the selected media (step 410). These steps are discussed in more detail below.

Media selection can be received from a user directly, for example via on-screen menus. Alternatively, media selection for recording can be performed by a user remotely, eg via the internet. In another modality, the media selected for registration can be part of a list. For example, a listing of DVDs that are unsuitable for children may be provided by consumer watchdogs that can be downloaded or otherwise entered into the media player 110.

After the media selection is received (in step 400) the selected program is then registered (step 320). Registration can be automatic after receiving media selection. Alternatively, the record can be selected by the user, for example via a menu of an on-screen display. Media registration indicates how the program should be handled when trying to play registered media. In one modality the record indicates that the program is restricted meaning the media is not suitable for general viewing. For example, media having mature themed content can be registered as private indicating that the media should not be reproduced without permission.

Conversely the record may indicate that the media is preferred meaning that the media requires little or no authorization to be reproduced. For example, media having content suitable for children may be registered as “Safe for Children”, indicating that the media can be reproduced without requiring permission.

In other modalities, the media registration may indicate a requirement for a specific authorization. For example, a program can be registered to indicate that the media should only be playable for a specific user. In other embodiments, as in the example of Fig. 1B, where multiple display devices 120, 122, and 124 are connected to media player 110; a program can be registered to indicate which display device 120, 122, 124 is authorized to play the media. In this way, certain programs can be registered so that they only play on a television in the bedroom, while other programs can be registered so that they only appear on the television in the family room. Another possible record will be evident to a person skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

Figures 5A and 5B show a modality of the interworkings of the steps of receiving a media selection to be registered (step 400) and registering the selected media (step 410). Figure 5A represents a flowchart 500 of the process of how media is selected and recorded using the DVD parental control menu on screen 550 of figure 5B. after DVD 550 parental control menu has been opened (step 510), cursor 560 is moved up or down in menu 550 to select a DVD to register (step 520). In this case, the DVD “Rabbit Proof Fence” was selected using cursor 560. The cursor can then be moved to the right or left to select the desired record type (step 530). In this case the option for registration is “Private” 550. The label “Private” indicates that the media is for private viewing only after a desired option is selected (step 530) the program is registered (step 540). In the example in Figure 5B, the media registration as “Private”, is indicated by a check mark, thus check mark 570 indicates that the DVD “Pineapple Express” has been registered as “Private”.

In some modalities the maintenance of the record may require authorization. For example, parents may want to restrict the ability to add or remove media from the registry. As such, media registration by a user as depicted in Figures 5A and 5B may require the user to provide a password before registration can be performed. This can be implemented similar to parental lock features currently found in televisions and frequency converters. In another embodiment, like the example of Fig. 1B, where multiple display devices 120, 122 and 124 are connected to the media player 110; the media player can be configured such that media registration can only be performed through devices designated as frequency converter 160 or display device 124.

Referring again to figure 3, after the selected program has been registered (step 320), authorization is required to play the registered media based on the registration (step 320). For example, media registered as “Private” can only be viewed after the user provides a password. This can be implemented similar to the parental lock features currently found in televisions and frequency converters. Conversely, if media has been registered as preferred, such as “Safe for Children”, little or no authorization may be required to play the registered media.

In another embodiment, as in Fig. 1B, where multiple display devices 120, 122 and 124 are connected to media player 110; the media player 110 can be configured such that certain registered media can only be played on devices designated as frequency converter 160 or display device 124. For example, programs labeled “private” can only be played on a designated display device that has been authorized to display the registered media.

In still other modalities, authorization may have a temporal aspect. That is, authorization to play registered media may depend on the time of day. Thus, in the case of Figures 5A and 5B where media has been labeled “Private” the authorization to touch media registered as “private” may change based on the time of day. For example, between 5:00 and 20:00 when children are the main user of the media player, media registered as “Private” will not play, however after 8:00 pm when children are in bed, the media registered as “Private” will be authorized to be played.

In certain embodiments, method 300 of Figure 3 further includes the steps of receiving authorization (step 340) and touching the media upon receipt of authorization (step 350). As stated above, authorization may be provided as a password or a request to play recorded media from an authorized device or at an authorized time. Playback of recorded media is accomplished by reproducing recorded media content from media player 110 to a display device 120, 122, 124. In the mode where media player 110 includes its own display device, the content of the registered media can be displayed on the included display device.

It should be understood that the assembly and management of the record as well as authorizations, including passwords, designated devices, and temporal aspects can be performed by the user as needed. For example, on-screen menus can be provided for a user to configure or modify any of these aspects. In certain modes, on-screen prompts can be provided to the user. An example of this can be seen in figure 6.

Figure 6 represents a flowchart 600 of an embodiment of the media recording process with a media player. In this example, the media player is a DVD player and the media being registered is a DVD. The process starts with the DVD being loaded into the player (step 610). The DVD player then checks to see if the DVD has been registered with the player (step 620). If the DVD has been registered, the required authorization is determined and if authorized the DVD is played (step 630). If the DVD has not been registered, a 650 pop-up window suggesting registration opens (step 640). Using the pop-up window, the user selects whether or not to register the DVD (step 660). If the user selects not to register the DVD, the DVD may start playing (step 670). If the user selects to register the DVD with the player, a 690 registration pop-up menu is provided (step 680). Using pop-up menu 690, the user can then select the record type, in this case “private” (step 700).

Although the example set out above has focused on an electronic device, it should be understood that the present invention can also be incorporated into a computer program product, which comprises all the features enabling the implementation of the methods described here and which when loaded into a system computer, is capable of performing these methods. Application or computer program in the present context means any expression, in any language, code or notation, of a set of instructions intended to cause a system having an information processing capability to perform a specific function directly or after any or both of the following a) conversion into another language, code or notation; b) reproduction in a different material form.

Additionally, the above description is intended by way of example only and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way, except as set out in the following claims.

Claims (20)

1. Method in a media player, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises: keeping a record of registered media; compare media to the maintained record of registered media; request authorization to play media based on the media record in the record kept, where authorization is based on a device displaying the media being played by the media player and authorization determines whether the device is authorized to view the recorded media . 2. Method, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it further comprises the steps of: receiving authorization for a registered media; and touch registered media in response to said authorization. 3. Method according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the step of keeping a record of registered media comprises: receiving a selection of a media to be registered; and register the selected media. 4. Method, according to claim 3, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the step of receiving a selection of a media to be registered comprises receiving, from a user, a selection of a media to be registered. 5. Method according to claim 4, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the selection received from a media to be registered is received from a user through an on-screen menu. 6. Method according to claim 5, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the step of receiving a media selection to be registered further comprises the steps of: providing an on-screen prompt for a media selection, and receiving a media selection provided by a user through an on-screen menu. 7. Method according to claim 3, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the selection of a media to be registered is received through a network connection of the media player. 8. Method, according to claim 3, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the step of receiving a selection of a media to be registered comprises receiving a list of media to be registered. 9. Method according to claim 3, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the step of registering the selected media received comprises registering the selected media received as restricted. 10. Method according to claim 3, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the step of registering the selected media received comprises registering the selected media received as preferred. 11. Method according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the media player is a network-based media player. 12. Media Player CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises: a reader configured to read media supplied to the media player; a processor configured to keep a record of registered media, compare a media to the maintained record of registered media, and request authorization to play registered media based on the media record, where authorization is based on a device displaying the media being played by the media player and authorization determines whether the device is authorized to display registered media; storage to store the kept record of registered media; and an output interface for outputting content from an authorized media. 13. Media player, according to claim 12, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it further comprises a network interface. 14. Media player according to claim 12, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it further comprises an input interface for receiving input from a user. 15. Media player according to claim 14, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the input interface is further configured to receive authorization to play registered media. 16. Media player according to claim 12, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the processor is further configured to receive authorization for a registered media and play the registered media in response to said authorization. 17. Media player according to claim 12, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the processor is further configured to keep the registered media record by receiving a selection of a media to be registered and recording of the selected media. 18. Media player, according to claim 17, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that receiving a selection of media to be registered comprises receiving a list of media to be registered. 19. Media player according to claim 17, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that registering the selected media received comprises registering the selected media received as restricted. 20. Media player according to claim 17, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that registering the selected media received comprises registering the selected media received as preferred.

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