JP2003271833A - Output control method of digital image, image delivery method, management server, image output control terminal unit, program, and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image data delivery system capable of providing a user with printed matter while preventing an illegal use of an original image. <P>SOLUTION: Musical piece information of audio CD is registered into a storage medium 32 and a data base 70 of a management server 30, and a package image corresponding to it is registered in the storage medium 32 and a data base 72. When the audio CD is inserted into user's terminal unit 10 (S110), the management server 30 receives an instruction for retrieval of the musical piece information and delivers a candidate of the retrieved musical piece information to user's terminal unit 10 (S112). The management server 30 retrieves the package image by receiving the specification from among them and delivers thumbnail of the retrieved package image to user's terminal unit 10. The user's terminal unit 10 demands delivery of the package image by selecting the thumbnail (S114). The user's terminal unit 10 gives an instruction for printing to an output device 50 together with the delivered package image and erases the package image after completion (S120, S122, S122). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a digital image output control method, an image distribution method, a management server, an image output control terminal, a program, and a computer-readable storage medium storing the program. More specifically, the present invention relates to a technique of delivering an image corresponding to electronic data (digital content) to a client and making a printed matter on the client side.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Today, with the development of digital image processing technology and communication technology such as the Internet, it has become easy to transmit various information as digital data. For example, various electronic data can be published on the Internet, and the client can download and use the data freely or when predetermined authentication conditions are met.

On the other hand, as a device for reproducing a medium on which digital music data such as an audio CD (Compact Disc) is recorded, not only a dedicated reproducing device but also an information processing device such as a personal computer can be used. It is like this.

When a personal computer is used, music data can be played back by installing (installing) playback software and setting an audio CD in the CD-ROM drive.

[0005] Further, among the reproduction software, there is also a software for collectively managing the music database server on the Internet and the local (actually sold) music, and is equipped with a connection function to the music database server. There is. Then, by accessing the database service on the Internet in which the information about the music data recorded on the audio CD is registered, the “artist name”, “album name”,
Some have a function of downloading information related to music data such as "song name".

[0006] In addition, today, as the price of storage media such as MD (mini disc) and CD-R / RW (recordable CD) decreases and the distribution of music on the Internet becomes widespread, individuals create music media. The number of things to do is also increasing. For example, an audio CD may be dubbed onto a CD-R. At this time, it is also possible to access a database service on the Internet, download the "artist name", "album name", "song name", etc. of the audio CD and record it as additional information. By doing so, such information can be displayed during reproduction.

In other words, by adding the data obtained through the network to the original CD, the original CD which is not included in the original CD or has been added in advance but has a different title, song name, or the like is added. Making media easy.

[0008]

However, even if such a medium can be created, the package of the created medium is created in the same manner as the original one, or the original package in which the background images are exchanged is created. It is often difficult to say such things.

The music media packages currently on the market are copyrighted in the same manner as the copyright of music data, and there is a problem in providing them freely as image data. Although a method of allowing the download of the image data after the authentication of the payment of the copyright fee can be considered, it is impossible to prevent the unauthorized use (repeated use or duplication) using the image data after the download.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and it is possible to present an output product such as a package image corresponding to electronic data (digital content) to a client, and, after presenting it once, an unauthorized original image. An object of the present invention is to provide a digital image output control method and an image distribution method that can be prevented from being used, a management server and an image output control terminal that implement these methods. It is another object of the present invention to provide a program suitable for realizing the output control method and the image distribution method by software using an electronic computer, and a computer-readable storage medium storing the program.

[0011]

That is, in the digital image output control method according to the present invention, first, a first database storing first information related to digital data and a digital data related to digital data are stored. Instructing the search of the first information corresponding to the digital data by transmitting the information related to the content of the digital data to the management server that manages the image database configured to be able to deliver the image to the client To do. Next, the first information corresponding to the digital data is distributed from the management server, and the management server searches for the digital image corresponding to the digital data by selecting and designating from the first information received. Instruct. Then, a digital image corresponding to the digital data is distributed from the management server, and the distributed digital image is transmitted to a predetermined output device to print the digital image on a predetermined recording medium.

In the method of distributing a digital image according to the present invention, first, a first database storing first information related to digital data and a digital image related to digital data can be distributed to a client. Manage the image database. Then, the first information related to the digital data is retrieved from the first database in response to the request from the client, and the retrieved first information is retrieved.
Information of the above is delivered to the client. Next, the digital image related to the digital data is searched based on the response information from the client to the first information distributed to the client, and the searched digital image is distributed to the client.

The management server according to the present invention manages a first database that stores first information related to digital data and an image database that is configured to deliver digital images related to digital data to clients. Then, in response to a request from the client, a search unit that searches the first information or digital image related to the digital data and a data distribution unit that sends the search result to the client are provided.

The image output control terminal according to the present invention manages a first database that stores first information related to digital data and an image database that is configured to distribute digital images related to digital data. A first search instructing unit for instructing a search for the first information corresponding to the digital data by transmitting information related to the contents of the digital data to the management server that is operating.
Further, the image output control terminal receives the distribution of the first information corresponding to the digital data from the management server, and selects and designates from the received first information, thereby displaying the digital image corresponding to the digital data. A second search instruction unit that instructs the management server to perform a search, a data receiving unit that receives a digital image corresponding to digital data from the management server, and a digital image that the image receiving unit receives to a predetermined output device. By doing so, a print control unit for printing a digital image on a predetermined print medium is provided.

The program according to the present invention is suitable for realizing the output control method and the image distribution method by software using an electronic computer (computer). The program may be provided by being stored in a computer-readable storage medium, or may be distributed via wired or wireless communication means.

[0016]

In the above structure, first, the management server stores a first database for storing first information related to digital data (music information in the case of a CD) and a digital image related to digital data for a client. It manages a distributable image database. The client, that is, the image output control terminal, informs the management server of information related to the contents of digital data (for example, a CD
In this case, the TOC) is transmitted to instruct the search for the first information corresponding to the digital data. That is,
Using the contents of the digital data stored in the recording medium as a search key, the search for the first information is instructed.

Next, the first information corresponding to the digital data is delivered from the management server, and the first information received is delivered.
Select from the information in. As a result, the management server is instructed to search for a digital image corresponding to the digital data. The management server searches for a digital image corresponding to the digital data and delivers it to the image output control terminal.
The image output control terminal prints the delivered digital image by sending it to the output device.

[0018]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a first embodiment of a content distribution system including a content management server according to the present invention.

The content distribution system 100 is arranged on the side of the output device manager 5, and is used by the user 1 when requesting the provision of digital contents (hereinafter referred to as user terminal) 10 and the system operator 3. A content management server (hereinafter simply referred to as a management server) 30 that manages the distribution of digital content, and an output device 50 such as a printer or a copier that is allocated to the output device manager 5 side.
And a coin insertion machine 60 connected to the output device 50. Databases 70 and 72 are connected to the management server 30.

The user terminal 10 and the management server 30 are connected via the Internet 109, which is an example of a public communication network. Further, the user terminal 10 and the output device 50 are arranged close to each other and are connected by a connection cable. The user terminal 10 functions as an image output control terminal according to the present invention.

The user terminal 10, the output device 50, and the coin inserting machine 60 are collectively referred to as a user system. This user system is widely installed in public places such as convenience stores (hereinafter referred to as convenience stores), and an arbitrary number of devices are connected to each of them (M in the figure).
4 locations of a, b, c, d are shown).

The user terminal 10 is the Internet 109.
It has a function of browsing the above home page, a function of handing over predetermined data to the output device 50, and a function of notifying the management server 30 that the processing is completed after the output processing of the output device 50.

The management server 30 has a function of distributing the data requested by the user 1 to the user terminal 10. After the information desired by the user 1 is output from the output device 50, the management server 30 responds to the output. It has functions such as billing processing. This billing process includes not only the price (¥ / sheet) of the printed matter output by the output device 50, but also the transfer of the copyright fee.

The output device 50 functions as an output terminal designated by the user 1 as a content delivery destination.
It has a function to output printed matter. Further, the output device 50 is
It is under the control of the output device manager 5, such as a store clerk at a convenience store.
However, the user 1 cannot freely replace the sheet.

The content distribution system 100 having the above configuration
Information about audio CDs,
Specifically, a case will be described as an example in which the image data necessary for printing a package design for an audio CD is used for distribution from the management server 30 to the user terminal 10.

In the database 70, music information (album information) such as "artist name", "album name" and "song name" corresponding to the audio CD is registered (S).
100). In other words, in the case of this database 70, the music information that can be retrieved from the database 70 is the album name, artist name, and the respective music titles and playing times. The database 70 may be constructed with the support of a general user or may be constructed by a dedicated vendor.

The general user accesses the website managing the database 70 via the Internet for the music data of the audio CD purchased or rented by the general user, and the album ID, album name, artist name, or comment. Are registered in the database (registered album DB) 70. Of course, the package provider (CD sales company) can also register album data in the database 70 by the same method.

For example, today we on the Internet
CD information (for example, album name of music CD,
Since a database (CDDB; Compact Disc Data Base) that can be searched for artist names, song names, etc. is open to the public, these can be used.

Various kinds of sucking software (search software) are also provided. Based on the unique ID of the CD, the copyright holder name and music C
Information such as the song title, artist name, and album name of D can be searched and received from the Internet.
Regarding MP3 (MPEG1 Layer 3) -related, various ripper software is compatible, and based on the database information, "C
Many softwares that automatically input information such as “song name of each track” and “artist name” to the ID3 tag of the MP3 file when converting “D → MP3” are available, so it is recommended to use them. For example, a music player compatible with such a database can acquire an album name, an artist name, and a song name by setting a music CD and accessing the database to search.

The database 72 contains audio CDs.
Package information corresponding to (that is, music information) is registered (S102). This database 72 is mainly constructed by a package provider (CD sales company).
For example, the package provider (CD seller) gives a package ID for identifying the package information. Specific examples of the package information include jackets (images) of CD albums and MD albums, lyrics cards, posters and photo albums.

The system operator 3 also creates a database of music information as an example of digital contents provided to the user 1 and package information corresponding to the music information in the management server 30 managed by itself (S104). For example, the system operator 3 registers music information such as “artist name”, “album name”, “song name”, and package information corresponding to the audio CD in the management server 30 that is operated / managed by the system operator 3. deep. Part or all of the contents may be duplicated with those registered in the databases 70 and 72. Then, the management server 30 waits until it is accessed by the user 1.

The user 1 moves to a place where the user terminal 10 or the output device 50 is installed, such as a convenience store, and inserts an audio CD into the user terminal 10 (S110). Then, the user terminal 10 automatically accesses the management server 30 and requests a search for music information of the audio CD (S112).

The management server 30 uses the audio C, for example.
The TOC of D is used to search the database in the management server 30, and the music information matching the audio CD is returned to the user terminal 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the management server 30 may be a network (Internet or
It is connected to a database 70 storing music information via a dedicated line), and the information in the database can be used for searching.

The user 1 selects a suitable one from the music information displayed in a list on the user terminal 10, and then requests the management server 30 to search for a package image. The management server 30 searches the database in the management server 30 and returns the thumbnail image of the package image that matches the selected music information to the user terminal 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the management server 30 is connected to a database 71 storing package information via a network (which may be the Internet or a dedicated line), and the information in the database can be searched for. It is available.

The user 1 selects a suitable one from the package images displayed as thumbnail images on the user terminal 10. The management server 30 transmits the basic data of the selected package image to the user terminal 10 (S
116). Here, the basic data means a base design image (a general-purpose package image in this example) when the design change is selected, and an original package design image otherwise.

The user terminal 10 issues an output instruction to the output device 50 together with the image data received from the management server 30 (S120). At this time, if the design change is selected, character information or the like designated by the user is laid out at a predetermined position in the base design image, and the combined image data is passed to the output device 50.

The output device 50 prints out the designated number of package images (that is, the number of sheets designated by the user 1) based on the received image data (S122).
You may make it print a receipt etc. as needed. When the printing is completed, the output device 50 deletes the image data (S124).

The payment is made by the coin inserting machine 60. If the package image is copyrighted, the payment will be made for the amount including the copyright fee. That is, not only the number of output sheets, but also the amount of money including the copyright fee is printed out only when the coin insertion machine 60 is charged. The data distribution fee may be included in the price.

After printing is completed, the user terminal 10 issues a completion notice to the management server 30. Upon receiving the completion notification, the management server 30 performs charging processing such as transfer of copyright fees (account settlement) in addition to the price (¥ / sheet) of the printed matter output by the output device 50 (S130).

As a result, the user 1 can acquire as many package images as the number of purchased sheets. Output device 5 installed at a convenience store
Since 0 can be used for printing, it is convenient for users who do not have a printer. It is also possible to create a package of the created medium in the same way as the original one, or create it in its own package in which the background images are exchanged.

Since the output device 50 managed by the printing device manager 5 is used to print out based on the command from the user terminal 10, the unauthorized printing can be prevented. Since the image data is not presented to the user 1, secondary use can be prevented.

The system operator 3 can surely collect the printing fee, the data distribution fee, and the copyright fee. That is, the system operator 3 and the output device manager 5
Can obtain a predetermined intermediate margin with a simple mechanism.

FIG. 2 shows the user terminal 10 and the management server 3.
It is a block diagram showing one embodiment of 0, the output device 50, and the coin insertion machine 60. As shown in FIG. 2 (A),
The user terminal 10 includes an input device 11 such as a keyboard and a mouse, and a display device 12 such as a CRT or a liquid crystal (LCD) that displays an operation screen or a homepage image.
And a display control unit 14 for displaying an operation menu or an image based on downloaded image data on the display device 12, and a drive device 16 for recording / reproducing a medium. The display device 12 may function as the input device 11 by using a touch panel.

When the user terminal 10 receives a distribution request for content from the user 1, the user terminal 10 instructs the management server 30 to search for predetermined information.
Then, the print control unit 20 that outputs the image data for printing received from the management server 30 to the output device 50 and issues a print instruction, and informs the management server 30 that the process is completed after the output process in the output device 50. It has the completion notification transmission part 26 to notify.

The search instructing unit 18 makes the distribution request condition that a medium is inserted in the drive device 16, for example. Then, when a music medium (such as a CD) is inserted into the drive device 16 of the user terminal 10, the search instruction unit 18
The distribution request is transmitted to the management server 30 together with the data (the number of pieces of music, performance time, dedicated key information, etc.) recorded in the music medium.

The user terminal 10 also receives a data receiving section 21 for receiving a digital image or the like from the management server 30, a digital image received by the data receiving section 21, and predetermined input information (eg, text data). And an image synthesizing unit 22 for synthesizing the images to generate a synthetic image. Furthermore, the user terminal 10 charges the price for the provision of the digital image on the condition that the image is printed on the output device 50, and the charge processing unit 24 charges the price on the condition that the price is charged. A completion notification transmission unit 26 that transmits a completion notification indicating that the image has been printed to the management server 30.

As shown in FIG. 2B, the management server 30
Is a storage medium 32 such as a hard disk that stores the music information and package information corresponding to the music information in a database, and a search unit 34 that searches the music information and the package information in response to a request from the user 1. The data distribution unit 36 that distributes the searched music information, package image, or billing processing information to the user terminal 10.

Further, the management server 30 receives the completion notification indicating the completion of the printing process from the user terminal 10, and the completion notification receiving unit 42 accepts the output completion notification. A billing processing unit 46 that performs a billing process according to the distribution of the content to the user 1. The billing processing unit 46 performs billing processing such as transfer of a copyright fee (account settlement) in addition to the price (¥ / sheet) of the printed matter output from the output device 50, for example.

As shown in FIG. 2C, the output device 50
Is a printing unit 52 that prints out and payment information that transmits payment information indicating that payment has been made to the user terminal 10 when the payment according to the charging processing information is inserted into the coin insertion machine 60. And a transmitter 54. Output device 5
Operation keys 56 are provided on the top surface of the 0 case, and the LCD
Is provided with a display section 58. Output device 50
Discharges the printed matter printed by the printing unit 52 inside the housing from the opening provided on the side surface of the housing.

As shown in FIG. 2 (D), the coin inserting machine 60 has a coin receiving portion 62 for receiving coins, and a coin receiving portion 62, when a price corresponding to the charging processing information is inserted into the coin receiving portion 62. A display unit 63 for displaying, a deposit information transmitting unit 64 for transmitting deposit information indicating that the coin has been deposited to the user terminal 10 via the output device 50 when a coin is inserted into the coin receiving unit 62, and a change. And a coin discharging unit 66 for discharging. The coin insertion machine 60 may transmit the deposit information to the user terminal 10 without passing through the output device 50.

When the user terminal 10 receives the deposit information from the coin inserting machine 60, the output device 5 is based on the deposit amount indicated by the deposit information and the consideration for the print output service.
It controls the print function of 0 and performs billing processing. For example, the excess or deficiency of the payment amount with respect to the consideration is calculated, an insufficient message is displayed on the user terminal 10 side or the display unit 57 of the output device 50 when the payment amount is small, and the output device 50 is instructed to print when the payment is sufficient. Then, after printing is completed,
When the inserted amount is more than the price, the change is caused to be output to the coin discharge section 66.

Instead of the coin slot 60, a POS terminal functioning as a deposit unit may be used. In this case, the POS terminal is provided with a function of transmitting, to the user terminal 10, payment information indicating that the payment has been received when the payment according to the charging processing information is received via the cashier. Even in this case, in order to ensure the collection of the payment, it is preferable to adopt a prepaid system, and a mechanism for returning the fishing to the user 1 via the cashier when the payment is too much.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a registration form of music information and package package information registered in the database.

As the music information, as shown in FIG. 3A, for example, an album ID, an album name, an artist name, a song name, a comment, or the like is registered so as to correspond to an audio CD.

As for the comment, the music information is the user terminal 1
When it is displayed at 0, it is displayed for reference. The description is left to the registrant in free form. For example,
For example, "Drama xxx Theme song XXX recorded!"

As the package information, as shown in FIG. 3B, for example, an album ID, a package ID, and package information (a jacket image, a lyrics card, a poster, a photo book, etc.) corresponding to an audio CD. Link (storage) destination, paper size, price, right holder I
D, the current number of copies, comments, etc. are registered.

As a key for retrieving the package design image related to the audio CD, the "music information" about the audio CD is used. Here, the "music information" is digital data contained in a music medium such as an audio CD. For example, information such as song title, songwriter, composer, and link to package design.
The link to the package design is particularly effective when searching for package information. Character data such as song name, lyricist, and composer is used when creating a general-purpose package that does not depend on the music medium. When returning the search result to the user terminal 10, remember the corresponding album ID. When music information is selected from the user terminal 10, when searching for corresponding package information, the album ID is used as a search key.

As the package information, image data in a form suitable for various music media such as CD and MD is a typical example. As the image data, there are the same music media as those on the market, and there are general-purpose packages created by famous artists. The package design actually used is selected by the music information and the additional information input by the user.

For example, when a single music medium is made up of a plurality of music media, it is possible to output a synthetic design in which information such as the music title retrieved by the music information is added to a general-purpose package.

As shown by the album ID "Aa", a plurality of package information may be associated with one CD album. For example, multiple types of package images are prepared, or the same image, but CD
Size, MD size, etc.

Further, as shown by the album ID "Ab", there is a package in which the package information corresponding to the album ID is not registered. For example, it was originally registered, but the image has been deleted. When a package image of such an album is requested, the management server 30
Returns a general-purpose package image to the user terminal 10 as package information.

An item having an ID code in the right holder ID column means that the image is a copyrighted image.
In this case, the right holder ID and the copyright fee are associated with each other. Further, in this case, the price data may be a combination of the image unit price and the copyright fee (per sheet) or may be a combination of them. Alternatively, if the image unit price or the copyright fee differs depending on the number of output sheets, such information is also included in the price data.

The current output copy number is used when the number of copies is limited or when the period is limited. If the numerator and denominator of this column are the same, it means that the number has reached a predetermined number when the number of sheets is limited, and although it is registered as package information, output is not permitted. A value of "0" basically means that there is no limit, but the use is temporarily restricted. When the period is limited, the start date and time and the end date and time (limited period) are input.

As for the comment, the music information is the user terminal 1
When it is displayed at 0, it is displayed for reference. For example, by displaying a message such as "Package service / original package." Or "Limited time!", The user 1 is prompted to use the image.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure of the content distribution system 100, which is shown based on a screen switching sequence (screen transition diagram) displayed in the processing process. Moreover, FIGS. 5-9 shows an example of each display screen. Here again, an example is shown in which the image data necessary for printing the package design for the audio CD is distributed from the management server 30 to the user terminal 10. Screen switching,
This is realized by the display control unit 14 controlling the display device 12 based on the interaction between the user terminal 10 and the management server 30.

The management server 30 waits for access from the user 1. The user 1 operates the input device 11 provided in the user terminal 10 to operate the management server 30.
To access. When this access mode is entered,
The print control unit 20 of the user terminal 10 prohibits the free print function on the output device 50 side. For example, the numeric keypad input for inputting the number of output sheets is permitted, but access to the start key, size switching key, etc. is prohibited.

Upon receiving an instruction from the user 1, the user terminal 10 first displays the (1) initial screen for selecting a service menu on the display device 12. In the illustrated example, four types of menus are presented to the user 1. Here, when printing the package design, the user 1
Press the appropriate button (media package). In response to this, the user terminal 10 switches to (2) media request screen for requesting insertion of media. If a music medium (audio CD) is inserted into the drive device 16 before pressing the corresponding button, the user terminal 10 automatically switches to (3) music information search screen.

When the cancel button is pressed on the (2) media request screen, the user terminal 10 switches to the (21) service cancel screen. Then, after ejecting the music media inserted in the drive device 16, (1) the initial screen is displayed.

On the other hand, the user terminal 10 waits for the insertion of the music media on the (2) media request screen, and when the music media is inserted into the drive device 16, switches to the (3) music information search screen.

Then, when the user terminal 10 shifts to the (3) music information search screen, it displays a message indicating that a search is in progress, and searches for music information using the inserted music medium as a key. Request to the management server 30. For example, TOC information (track number, total time, track time, etc.) of the audio CD is transmitted to the management server 30, and the management server 30 side requests a search. At this time, the user terminal 10 may display a dot scale bar on the display device 12 to notify the user 1 that the search is in progress.

In the management server 30, the retrieval unit 34, for example, the T of the audio CD received from the user terminal 10.
Using the OC information as a search key, the music information of the music medium is searched from the database 70 in which the music information is registered or its own storage medium 32. This search method may use the same method as the existing database search method. After the search is completed, the content data transmission unit 40 of the management server 30 delivers the searched music information to the user terminal 10.

When the cancel button is pressed during the search, the user terminal 10 switches to the (21) service cancel screen and notifies the management server 30 of the cancel of the search. On the other hand, when the search result is received from the management server 30, the screen automatically switches to (4) music information confirmation screen.

Then, the user terminal 10 displays a button showing a list of the searched music information, a selection button for using another server, a manual input button, etc. on the (4) music information confirmation screen, so that the music information is displayed. Prompt user 1 to confirm that there is no mistake. The user 1 confirms on this display screen whether or not the searched music information is the desired one.

It should be noted that the list button of music information should be simply displayed (for example, artist name and title), and detailed information such as composer should be prepared by providing a detailed button. That is, when the detail button is pressed, the screen is switched to a detail screen that presents detailed information about the composer (not shown). When the number of retrieved music pieces is large, scrolling can be switched by a scroll bar (black bar on the right side of the drawing).

On the other hand, if no search is found in the search processing, the user terminal 10 does not display the music information button and displays a message indicating that the search could not be performed (for example, "No hits were found. )) Is displayed.

When any one of the displayed music information buttons is pressed by the user 1, the user terminal 10 switches to (6) the media confirmation screen, and (5) music if another server selects search. Switch to the information server selection screen, and if manual input (using general-purpose package image) is selected, switch to (8) general-purpose package reminder screen,
When the cancel button is pressed, the screen is switched to the (21) service cancel screen.

For example, on the (5) music information server selection screen, when any of the displayed server buttons is pressed by the user 1, the user terminal 10 switches to the (3) music information search screen and selects return. If it is done, (4) it switches to the music information confirmation screen and displays the result on the previous server.
When the cancel button is pressed, the screen is switched to the (21) service cancel screen.

(6) On the media confirmation screen, a list of recorded songs is displayed. If the number of recorded songs is large, scrolling can be switched using the scroll bar (black bar on the right side of the figure). The user terminal 10 switches to the (7) package information search screen when the Yes button is pressed, and
The management server 30 is requested to search for package information corresponding to the music information. On the other hand, if the No button is pressed, (4) the music information confirmation screen is displayed and the result of the previous server is displayed.

(7) When the screen moves to the package information search screen, a message indicating that the search is in progress is displayed. At this time, the user terminal 10 may display a dot scale bar on the display device 12 to notify the user 1 that the search is in progress.

The management server 30 searches the package information corresponding to the music information selected by the user 1, and returns the thumbnail image of the package image associated with the music information to the user terminal 10. The user terminal 10 switches to the (9) package selection screen if the package information (thumbnail image) can be searched when the search result is received.

(9) On the package selection screen, thumbnail images and their attributes (CD jacket / MD jacket / lyric card, etc.) are displayed according to the number of retrieved packages.
And display the price. For copyrighted images, the price including the copyright fee is shown. When there are a plurality of package image candidates corresponding to the attribute, the display can be switched to the next candidate.

When a thumbnail image is designated on this display screen, the media can be changed. That is, the original CD design can be changed to the MD design. Also,
It is also possible to request printing of a lyrics card of an audio CD inserted in the drive device 16. When a thumbnail image is selected, the screen is switched to the (17) package determination screen, and when the general-purpose package button is pressed, the process moves to the package image creation process using the general-purpose package.
0) Switch to the general-purpose package media selection screen. When the cancel button is pressed, the screen is switched to the (21) service cancel screen.

On the other hand, when (7) the package information search screen is displayed and a search process is performed, if there is no corresponding package, the screen is switched to (8) general package reminder screen. Then, this (8) general-purpose package reminder screen outputs a message "Not found" and whether or not to use the general-purpose package image instead of using the package image that is previously associated with the music information. Ask user 1 whether or not. If "Manually input" is specified in (4) Music information confirmation screen, the message "Not found" is not output.

Here, if the No button is pressed, (2
1) Switch to the service stop screen. On the other hand, if the Yes button is selected, the process moves to the package image creation process using the general-purpose package, and the screen is switched to (10) General-purpose package media selection screen.

The process of creating a package image using a general-purpose package is performed as follows. First, (1
0) On the general-purpose package media selection screen, select the package to output. Here, when either the CD button or the MD button is pressed, the user terminal 10 (11)
The management server 30 is requested to search for a general-purpose package image corresponding to the medium while switching to the general-purpose package background genre selection screen. The management server 30 searches the background genre of the general-purpose package image corresponding to the selected medium, and returns the search result to the user terminal 10.
The user terminal 10 switches to the previous screen when the return button is pressed, and switches to the (21) service cancellation screen when the cancel button is pressed.

(11) On the general-purpose package background genre selection screen, the genre of the package image is designated. In the illustrated example, four types of landscape, design, animal, and character are presented. When any background genre button is pressed, the user terminal 10 switches to (12) general-purpose package background sub-genre selection screen and requests the management server 30 to search for a sub-genre corresponding to the selected background genre. The management server 30 searches the sub-genre corresponding to the selected background genre, and returns the search result to the user terminal 10. The user terminal 10 is
When the return button is pressed, the screen is switched to the previous screen, and when the cancel button is pressed, the screen is switched to (21) service cancel screen.

(12) Further genres can be specified on the general-purpose package background sub-genre selection screen. The illustrated example shows a case where the background genre button is pressed on the previous screen, and four types of sea, mountain, four seasons, and city are presented.
When any background sub-genre button is pressed (13)
While switching to the general-purpose package background selection screen, the management server 30 is requested to search for a package image corresponding to the selected background sub-genre. The management server 30
The package image corresponding to the selected background sub-genre is searched, and the thumbnail image of the corresponding package image is returned to the user terminal 10. The user terminal 10 switches to the previous screen when the return button is pressed, and switches to the (21) service cancellation screen when the cancel button is pressed.

(13) On the general-purpose package background selection screen, thumbnail images of package images corresponding to the medium and genre designated by the user 1 are presented. In the illustrated example, the general-purpose package images are all free, but may be semi-copyrighted images. An image to which a semi-copyright is given means an image that allows image processing but requires a certain price.
In this case, similarly to (9) Package selection screen, the price is displayed at the bottom of the thumbnail image.

Here, when the thumbnail image is selected,
An enlarged image corresponding to the selected thumbnail image is downloaded from the management server 30, and the screen is switched to (14) general package background determination screen. The user terminal 10 is
When the return button is pressed, the screen is switched to the previous screen, and when the cancel button is pressed, the screen is switched to (21) service cancel screen.

(14) On the general-purpose package background decision screen, an enlarged image corresponding to the selected thumbnail image is displayed. If the enter button is selected here (15), the screen is switched to the general-purpose package item input screen, the return button is pressed to switch to the previous screen, and the cancel button is pressed to switch to the (21) service cancel screen.

(15) On the general package item input screen, additional information to the general package design is input.
For example, a title, an artist name, a song title, a comment, etc. are used as input items, and the same input is repeated. If these data can be retrieved from the database by retrieving the music information, they are already input and displayed so that it is only necessary to press the decision button.

When the decision is pressed in the last item, (1
6) Switch to the general package layout change screen, and if there is an item date, update the input item and return to the (15) general package item input screen. The user terminal 10
Switches to the previous screen when the return button is pressed, and switches to the (21) service cancellation screen when the cancel button is pressed.

(16) On the general-purpose package layout change screen, the composite position of the general-purpose package image, title, artist name, song title, comment, etc. is adjusted. Initially, the title, artist name, song title, comment, etc. are displayed at the default position. Here, the arrangement position is adjusted by dragging and dropping the item object.

The user terminal 10 switches to the (17) package determination screen when the decision button is pressed, switches to the previous screen when the return button is pressed, and switches to the (21) service cancellation screen when the cancel button is pressed. .

By making predetermined selections and inputs on a series of screens from the screen (10) to the screen (16), an original package design using a general-purpose package image can be made. For example, by changing the design, it is possible to enter a general-purpose design of a famous designer, enter a message for a gift, or change the original CD design to MD design by changing the media.

After determining the original package design using the general-purpose package image, or (9) when the thumbnail image is designated on the package selection screen, (17)
On the package determination screen, the price is displayed together with an image diagram (higher resolution than the thumbnail image) of the package design in which the package image and the title, artist name, song name, comment, etc. are combined. Here, when the return button is pressed, the screen is switched to the previous screen, and when the stop button is pressed, the screen is switched to the (21) service stop screen.

On the other hand, when the enter button is selected, the billing processing section 24 of the user terminal 10 confirms whether or not coins of the price have been inserted into the coin inserting machine 60. For example, information about the number of output sheets designated by the output device 50 is acquired, the image unit price and the number of output sheets in the price data acquired from the database are integrated, and if the image is a copyrighted image, the price is calculated. The copyright fee in the data (if more than one copy is added, the added amount) is added to the image added amount to calculate the total amount. Also, the deposit information is received from the deposit information transmitting unit 64 of the coin slot machine 60. Then, when the charge is insufficient, that is, when the input amount indicated by the deposit information is less than the calculated total amount, the screen is switched to the (18) insufficient charge screen.

(18) When the return button is pressed on the insufficient charge screen, the previous screen is displayed, and when the stop button is pressed, the service stop screen is displayed (21). On the other hand, when the user 1 additionally inserts a coin into the coin inserting machine 60, the deposit information is acquired from the deposit information transmitting unit 64 of the coin inserting machine 60, and the above calculation is repeated. If the charge is still insufficient, the (18) charge shortage screen is updated. Further, when the decision is selected and the charge is insufficient, the (18) charge shortage screen at that time is maintained as it is. In addition, on the display unit 63 on the coin inserter 60 side,
It is good to display the amount of money already input or the amount of shortage.

When the charge becomes sufficient, that is, when the deposit amount indicated by the deposit information is equal to or larger than the calculated total amount, the user terminal 10 switches to the (19) output screen and displays the "printing" message. At the same time, the corresponding package image (image data for printing) is downloaded from the management server 30. When using the general-purpose package image, the image synthesizing unit 22 includes the downloaded general-purpose package image, title, artist name, and
The song title, the comment, and the like are combined so as to have the layout determined on the (16) general-purpose package layout change screen.

Then, the downloaded image data, the image data synthesized by the image synthesizing unit 22, data necessary for printing such as size information are passed to the output device 50, and a print instruction (print permission) is issued. Further, at this time, the operation of the coin inserting machine 60 is stopped.

In response to this, the output device 50 prints a predetermined number of package images on a predetermined size of paper. If there is a printing error in the output device 50, the re-output is accepted. To detect a printing error in the output device 50, the function of the existing output device 50 may be used. However, accepting the re-output indefinitely leads to illegal use, and therefore the re-output instruction is executed after the authentication processing of the output device manager 5.

When printing is completed successfully, the output device 50
The image data is deleted, and the user terminal 10 is notified of the completion of printing. In response to this, the user terminal 10
(20) While switching to the end message screen, the billing processing unit 24 deducts the price from the coin insertion machine 60 to make it operable. Further, the completion notification transmission unit 26
The output completion notification is transmitted to the management server 30.

The completion notification receiving unit 42 of the management server 30
When the output completion notice is received from the user terminal 10, the current output copy number of the database is updated. Also, the output device 50
In addition to the price (¥ / sheet) of the printed matter output in, the charge processing such as transfer of copyright fee (account settlement) is performed. For example, the copyright fee is charged to the bank account of the person concerned or the account of the management organization. After completion, the fact is notified to the user terminal 10.

In response to this, the user terminal 10 deletes the downloaded image data and confirms whether or not there are a plurality of candidate images in the package image search process. If there are no package images, (20) the end message screen is displayed, the medium is ejected from the drive device 16, and then (1) the initial screen is displayed. Further, when the coin inserting machine 60 has a remaining amount of money, it causes the coin discharging section 66 to take out the change.

On the other hand, when there are a plurality of package images, the screen is switched to (22) continuous output screen. Here, if the Yes button is pressed, the package selection screen is switched to (9), and if the No button is pressed, the service stop screen is switched to (21).

As described above, according to the above embodiment, the package image of the original design of the audio CD can be easily obtained as a printed matter. Also, if necessary, it is possible to produce a medium of its own, which has not been included in the original CD or has been added in advance but has a different title, song name, or the like.

Further, the music medium itself is searched as a keyword, so that the copyright can be examined and the original data is not provided as the data itself but is provided as the output of the print medium. It is possible to prevent repeated use of the package image of. That is,
With a package image to which a copyright is given, it is possible to prevent unauthorized use (repeated use, duplication, etc.) of using the image data, and it is possible to reliably collect a copyright fee.

Further, in the process up to the start of printing, image data having a relatively small amount of data such as thumbnail images is exchanged between the management server 30 and the user terminal 10, so that smooth processing can be performed. Further, the image data for printing which is not actually used is not downloaded unnecessarily. Therefore, no load is applied to the communication network.

In the above embodiment, the database stored in the storage medium 32 of the management server 30 is first searched, and then switching to another server is allowed ((4) music piece). An appropriate database 70 may be used without waiting for the instruction of the user 1 at the first search stage (see (3) Music information search screen) (see the information search screen). Alternatively, at the first search stage ((3) music information search screen), the specification of the database (search unit 34 or database 70) by the instruction of the user 1 may be accepted.

Further, in the above embodiment, the image data is downloaded from the management server 30 after the charge is sufficient. However, for example, when the screen is changed to (18) charge shortage screen, the balance is insufficient. Even in this case, the download may be started in the background. However, in this case, if the cancel button is pressed before the charge becomes sufficient, the screen is switched to the (21) service cancel screen, the image is not printed out, and the downloaded image data is wasted. In this case, the user terminal 10 deletes the downloaded image data.

In the above embodiment, the coin insertion machine 60 connected to the output device 50 is used for the billing process. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the billing process may be executed by a method based on the instruction after confirming the settlement method with the user at the first access. In this case, first, prior to the (1) initial screen of the above embodiment, a payment method selection screen for requesting confirmation of the payment method is displayed. For example, as in the above embodiment, the coin insertion machine 60
You can specify whether to use, pay at stores at convenience stores, or settle accounts.

When the use of the coin insertion machine 60 or the payment at the convenience store is selected, the screen (1) is immediately switched to the initial screen. On the other hand, when the account settlement is selected, the settlement account registration screen for registering the settlement account for using the service is displayed. When the specified input such as bank account and credit number is completed, (1) switch to the initial screen.

In the case of over-the-counter payment at a convenience store, the clerk is in charge of payment and management of the number of output copies. Management server 30
When the image is copyrighted, the user terminal 10 issues an output instruction to the output device 50, and thereby transfers the copyright fee. If it is not actually output, it is difficult to refund the price.

When the amount of money (including the copyright fee) corresponding to the output is deposited through the cashier using the POS terminal, the deposit information indicating that the payment has been received is sent to the user terminal 10 Alternatively, the management server 30 may transfer the copyright fee when the deposit information is received.

When the account settlement is designated, the user terminal 10 displays (17) package determination screen or (1
8) On the insufficient charge screen, manage to allow output within the limit of account balance. Alternatively, when the balance is insufficient, the payment of the insufficient amount by the coin inserting machine 60 may be accepted.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the content distribution system including the content management server according to the present invention. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the user terminal 10 includes a management server and a database. The processing procedure and the transition form of the display screen are the same as those in the first embodiment. What is different is the management method of the database including the search. The user terminal 10 may not have a database. That is, it is intermediate between the configuration shown in FIG. 1 and the configuration shown in FIG.

For example, the user terminal 10 basically searches the databases 74 and 76 provided in itself, and if the database cannot be searched, the database is appropriately accessed through the management server 30 that manages the entire system. 70 and the database 72 are used. The management server 30 may monitor the data registration status of the databases 74 and 76 in each user terminal 10.

Further, the user terminal 10 has the database 7
When 0 or the database 72 is used, the data may be acquired from them and transferred to the output device 50, or may be registered in the own databases 74 and 76 (that is, the database is updated).

The management server 30 may appropriately send data to the individual user terminals 10 connected to the network to update their databases. In this case, information frequently used for search via the management server 30 may be preferentially registered in the database of the user terminal 10.

Further, the notification of the processing status of the search using the own databases 74, 76 is received from the individual user terminals 10, and the individual user terminals 1 are added taking the overall status into consideration.
In this case, the management server 30 is not limited to register the same data for all the user terminals 10, and another database may be constructed. . For example, as the package image, data to be transmitted (registered) may be selected in consideration of the locality of the user terminal 10.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a third embodiment of a content distribution system including a content management server according to the present invention. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the content distribution system 100 according to the third embodiment, which is shown based on a screen switching sequence (screen transition diagram) displayed in the processing process. Also,
13 and 14 show an example of each display screen. The illustrated screen transition is performed prior to the package information printing process of the first embodiment.

In the third embodiment, the image corresponding to the digital content acquired from the management server 30 is printed out, and the image corresponding to the audio CD inserted in the drive device 16 by the user 1 is printed out. Different from the first embodiment. An MP3 (Mpeg Rayer 3) file download service, which is an example of audio data (digital content), and an image information (image) output service corresponding to the MP3 file will be described below as an example.

Content delivery system 1 of the third embodiment
00, system operator 3 who provides MP3 files
A content management server (hereinafter simply referred to as a management server) 30 that manages the distribution of MP3 files is arranged on the side, and a user terminal 10 and an output device 50 are arranged on the side of the printing device manager 5. That is, the entire system configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment.

The user terminal 10 has a function of requesting the management server 30 to provide an MP3 file, but the other points are the same as in the first embodiment. Functions for requesting the provision of MP3 files include a music data distribution request function and a data write function to a recording medium. Therefore, the user terminal 10 is equipped with, for example, an MD recorder and a CD-R drive.

The management server 30 has a function of receiving the request from the user 1 and transmitting the MP3 file to the user terminal 10, but the other points are the same as in the first embodiment.

In the case of the content delivery system 100 having the configuration of the third embodiment, the system operator 3 first registers the MP3 file that can be provided to the user 1 and the music information and image information corresponding to the MP3 file in the storage medium 32. . Also,
The database 70 and the database 72 are made available as a database of music information and image information.

The provided information generating section 36 generates a home page for distributing the MP3 file (digital content) to the user 1, and stores the data of this home page in the storage medium 32. The contents of the home page include at least a list of MP3 files. The system operator 3 publishes the registration ID and the URL address of the homepage on the WEB (S200). The search instruction unit 38 of the management server 30 waits until the user 1 accesses this home page.

The user 1 accesses the management server 30 via the user terminal 10 to find out the URL of the above-mentioned home page.
Enter your registration ID. And MP3 on the homepage
The necessary procedure for downloading the file is performed (S202).

When the management server 30 accepts the access for the download procedure from the user 1, the MP3
The screen data for the file download procedure is transmitted to the user terminal 10. The user 1 is the user terminal 10
The MP3 file download procedure is performed on the screen displayed on the display device 12. During this procedure
Predetermined data is exchanged between the user terminal 10 and the management server 30 (see FIGS. 12 to 14).

For example, first (R1) initial screen is displayed on the display device 12 (hereinafter referred to as a terminal screen) of the user terminal 10. In the illustrated example, four types of menus are presented to the user 1. Here, if the user wishes to burn onto a CD-R, the user 1 applies the corresponding button (CD creation).
push. In response to this, the management server 30 switches the terminal screen to the (R2) genre selection screen. In this example, three genres are presented to the user 1.

When any one of the displayed genre buttons is pressed by the user 1, the management server 30 searches the MP3 file corresponding to the specified genre, and indicates the artist of the corresponding MP3 file (R3) artist. Switch to the selection screen. If the return button is pressed during the search (R2), the genre selection screen is switched (returns to the previous display), and if the cancel button is pressed (2
1) Switch to the service stop screen. If there are many searched artists, scrolling can be switched using a scroll bar (black bar on the right side of the drawing).

Next, when any of the displayed artist buttons is pressed by the user 1, the management server 30
The MP3 file corresponding to the specified artist is searched, and the album name of the corresponding MP3 file is indicated (R
4) Switch to the album selection screen. When the return button is pressed during the search (R3), the artist selection screen is switched (return to the previous display), and when the cancel button is pressed, the service stop screen is switched (21). If there are many retrieved album names, scroll switching can be performed using a scroll bar (black bar on the right side of the drawing).

Next, when any of the displayed album buttons is pressed by the user 1, the management server 30 burns the designated CD album on the user terminal 10, so (R5) CD creation confirmation Switch to the screen. The screen shows the artist name and album name of the CD album selected by user 1, the burning price and a blank CD.
-A message prompting you to insert R is displayed. Here, when the cancel button is pressed, the screen is switched to the (21) service cancel screen. The user terminal 10 confirms that a blank CD-R has been inserted into the drive device 16 and that the price has been inserted into the coin insertion machine 60. If the conditions are met, downloading and burning of the corresponding MP3 file is started.

On the other hand, when the amount is insufficient, the screen is switched to (R6) Insufficient amount screen, and when the user 1 additionally inserts a coin and the charge is still insufficient, the insufficient amount is recalculated, and ( R6) Update the amount shortage screen. It should be noted that the inserted amount or the insufficient amount may be displayed on a predetermined display unit on the coin inserting machine 60 side. On the other hand, when the charge becomes sufficient, downloading and burning of the corresponding MP3 file is started.

When the downloading and burning of the MP3 file is started, the user terminal 10 switches to the screen during creation (R7), which indicates that the MP3 file is being created. Then, when the burning is completed, the screen is switched to the (R8) creation completion screen, and it is confirmed whether or not the package information is continuously printed. The user terminal 10 switches to the (9) package selection screen when Yes is pressed, and switches to the (1) initial screen when No is pressed. The following is the same as in the first embodiment.

In the above description of the third embodiment, the MP3 file is downloaded, burned onto the CD-R, and then the image information corresponding to the MP3 file is output. The embedded medium is not limited to that of the above embodiment. For example,
It may be a CDDA (CD digital audio) file, a video file (for example, an MPEG compressed file), or the like. In any case, it is sufficient as long as it outputs the image information related to the downloaded digital data.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing the fourth embodiment of the content distribution system according to the present invention. This is different from the first embodiment in that an image can be printed by a general-purpose printer owned by the user 1.

As shown in FIG. 15, the content distribution system 100 according to the fourth embodiment has a connection terminal 90 functioning as an image output control terminal according to the present invention, a management server 30,
The basic connection configuration of the general-purpose printer 92 as an output device is the same as in the first embodiment. Connection terminal 9 is different
0 or a general-purpose printer 92 is installed in a familiar part on the user 1 side (for example, a home or a company). The billing process of the fourth embodiment is based on account settlement.

The connection terminal 90 functions as a distribution destination terminal designated by the user 1 as a distribution destination of digital contents, and the general-purpose printer 92 connected to the connection terminal 90.
Function as an output terminal for digital contents. The connection terminal 90 has a function of browsing a home page on the Internet, such as a personal computer or a mobile phone, and prints a printed matter based on print data in the general-purpose printer 9
2 has a function of printing out. The access form to the management server 30 and the data acquisition procedure are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore the description thereof is omitted.

According to the configuration of the fourth embodiment, the user 1 accesses the management server 30 from the connection terminal 90 of the user 1 and uses the existing printer driver for the general-purpose printer 92 to make his / her general-purpose printer 92 available. With audio C
Since the package information corresponding to D etc. can be printed out, there is no need to visit a convenience store, which is very convenient. Further, by performing the billing process based on account settlement, the copyright fee for at least one output can be collected.

However, in this case, since the package image data is downloaded to the connection terminal 90, the existing printer driver can freely print based on the acquired image data. Unauthorized use, such as copying the data itself, can be a problem.

Therefore, after the data is received and the printing is completed, a mechanism for restricting further use is taken. This can be realized by software or hardware, and various data required in combination with this software or hardware may be transmitted from the management server 30 to the connection terminal 90.

For example, in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment, the number of outputs to be printed out corresponding to the package data transmitted in response to the output request from the user 1 (content data transmitted in response to the output request) ( Content quantity)
And the actual number of print outputs by the general-purpose printer 92 based on the package data (the number of contents output on the user side)
An output number control mechanism may be provided to control and so that they are equal to each other.

Here, the number of outputs to be printed out corresponding to the package data is not limited to printing only one package image with one package data, but the use of payment for printing a plurality of sheets. For those who
It is meant to include a form in which one package data allows printing of a plurality of sheets.

As the output number control mechanism, for example, JP-A Nos. 11-328269 and 2001-188666.
No. 5,058,05, or the technique described in JP 2001-265688 A or the like can be used.

Further, a mechanism may be provided to delete the package data from the connection terminal 90 after the printing of the predetermined number is completed. For example, a pass / fail information acquisition unit that obtains information regarding whether the output of the content in the general-purpose printer 92 is good or bad based on the package data (an example of content data) transmitted from the management server 30, and pass / fail information that the output of the content is “good”. A deletion program for deleting the content data from the connection terminal 90 on condition that the acquisition unit has acquired the deletion program transmission unit for transmitting the deletion program in association with the content data.

In the first embodiment, the user terminal 1
0 and the management server 30 are configured by hardware, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU (central processing unit) is not limited to this.
t), ROM (read only memory), RAM (random acc
An electronic computer having an ess memory), a communication I / F (interface), a hard disk device, an FD (flexible disk) drive, a CD-ROM (compact disk ROM) drive, and the like can also be used.

Then, the user terminal 10 and the management server 30 configured by an electronic computer can have the same basic configuration and operation as those of the above-described embodiments.
For example, a program that causes a computer to execute the processing procedure of the above embodiment is distributed through a recording medium such as a CD-ROM. Alternatively, the program is a CD
It may be stored in the FD instead of the ROM.

Further, an MO drive may be provided to store the program in the MO, or the program may be stored in another recording medium such as a nonvolatile semiconductor memory card such as a flash memory. Further, the program may be downloaded from another server or the like via a communication network such as the Internet and acquired or updated.

As the recording medium, in addition to a floppy disk, a CD-ROM, etc., an optical recording medium such as a DVD, a magnetic recording medium such as an MD, a magneto-optical recording medium such as a PD, a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium. A semiconductor memory such as an IC card or a miniature card can be used.

A floppy disk, a CD-ROM or the like as an example of the recording medium can store some or all functions of the user terminal 10 and the management server 30 described in the above embodiment. Therefore, it is possible to provide the following program and a storage medium storing the program.

For example, the program installed in the user terminal program, that is, the RAM, is
Similar to the user terminal 10 shown in the above-described embodiment, each functional unit such as the display control unit 14, the search instruction unit 18, the print control unit 20, the image composition unit 22, or the billing processing unit 24 is provided as software.

The management server program, that is, R
The software installed in the AM or the like is similar to the management server 30 shown in the above-mentioned embodiment, and the search unit 3 is used.
4, each function unit such as the data distribution unit 36, the completion notification reception unit 42, or the billing processing unit 46 is provided as software.

Then, the program is read from a CD-ROM or the like which stores the programs for configuring the respective functional units and installed in a hard disk device or the like, and the program is read from the hard disk device and the C
The above functions can be realized by software by the PU executing the above processing procedure.

For example, a CD-ROM drive is a CD-ROM
CPU by reading data or program from ROM
Pass to. The software is then installed on the hard disk drive from the CD-ROM. The hard disk device stores the data or program read by the FD drive or the CD-ROM drive, the data created by the CPU executing the program, and reads the stored data or program and transfers it to the CPU.

The software stored in the hard disk device is read by the RAM and then executed by the CPU. For example, the CPU is a ROM that is an example of a recording medium.
And the same processing as in each of the above-described embodiments is performed based on the program stored in the RAM.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. Various changes or improvements can be added to the above-described embodiment. It is apparent from the scope of the claims that the embodiments added with such modifications or improvements can be included in the technical scope of the present invention.

For example, in the above embodiment, the print output of the package image related to the music data has been described, but the image for printing is not limited to the one related to the music data. In short, users can use the package information corresponding to the original digital contents (including not only exterior images but also interior images such as lyrics cards) as a print medium while preventing unauthorized use (repeated use or duplication). Any form may be used.

Further, in the above embodiment, after the package image is printed out on the user side, the image data is deleted from the user side terminals (user terminal 10, output device 50, connection terminal 90). However, not limited to this, any mechanism may be taken as long as it is prohibited to present the original package information to the user after print output.

[0161]

As described above, according to the present invention, first, the package information corresponding to the original digital content is registered in the database. Then, the corresponding image is searched using two of the digital data stored in the recording medium and the corresponding information (first information / for example, music information) as a search key. At that time, instead of receiving the digital data and information corresponding thereto at once, the corresponding image is searched through a two-step search by each one. This confirmed the copyright confirmation.

Further, the package information corresponding to the requested digital content is printed out on the user side, and the presentation of the package information to the user is prohibited after the printout. As a result, the package information corresponding to the original digital content can be easily presented to the client, and once presented, the unauthorized use of the original package information can be prevented.

For example, it is possible to print out in a format desired by the user while protecting the copyright of the design of the package of the music medium such as a CD. Also, as a CD jacket, you can create a jacket of your favorite color or a jacket of your favorite illustrator.
You can also create an MD jacket with a CD jacket design.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a first embodiment of a content distribution system including a content management server according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a user terminal, a management server, an output device, and a coin slot machine.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a registration form of music information and package package information registered in a database.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the first embodiment based on a switching sequence of screens displayed in the processing process.

FIG. 5 is an example of a display screen (screen numbers 1 to 5).

FIG. 6 is an example of a display screen (screen numbers 6 to 1)
0).

FIG. 7 is an example of a display screen (screen numbers 11 to 1)
5).

FIG. 8 is an example of a display screen (screen numbers 16 to 2)
0).

FIG. 9 is an example of a display screen (screen numbers 21 and 2)
2).

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of a content distribution system including a content management server according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a third embodiment of a content distribution system including a content management server according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the third embodiment based on a switching sequence of screens displayed in the processing process.

FIG. 13 is an example of a display screen (screen numbers R1 to R
5).

FIG. 14 is an example of a display screen (screen numbers R6 to R
10).

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a fourth embodiment of the content distribution system according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 ... User, 3 ... System operator, 5 ... Output device manager, 9 ... Internet, 10 ... User terminal, 11 ... Input device, 12 ... Display device, 14 ... Display control unit,
16 ... Drive device, 18 ... Search instructing section, 20 ... Print control section, 22 ... Image combining section, 24 ... Billing processing section, 30 ... Management server 30, 32 ... Storage medium, 34 ... Search section, 36 ...
Data distribution unit, 42 ... Completion notification receiving unit, 46 ... Charging processing unit, 50 ... Output device, 52 ... Printing unit, 54 ... Deposit information transmitting unit, 60 ... Coin inserting machine, 62 ... Coin receiving unit, 6
4 ... Deposit information transmitter, 66 ... Coin ejector, 70, 7
2, 74, 76 ... Database, 100 ... Content distribution system

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI theme code (reference) G10K 15/02 G10K 15/02 H04N 5/76 H04N 5/76 E 5/765 7/173 640Z 5/91 5/91 H 7/173 640 L (72) Inventor Shunichi Ota 3-7-1, Fuchu, Iwatsuki City, Saitama Prefecture Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd. Iwatsuki Works (72) Inventor Jun Fukui 3-Chome, Iwatsuki City Saitama Prefecture No. 1 Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd. Iwatsuki Works (72) Inventor Jun Sato 3-7-1, Fuuchi, Iwatsuki City, Saitama Prefecture F-terms at Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd. Iwatsuki Works (reference) 5B021 AA01 AA30 EE00 NN18 5C052 FA02 FA03 FA04 FA08 FC04 FE01 5C053 FA04 FA15 KA04 KA24 LA03 LA14 5C064 BA07 BB10 BC01 BC18 BC20 BC25 BD02 BD08

Claims (17)

[Claims] 1. A method for controlling output of a digital image related to digital audio data, comprising: a music information database storing music information related to the digital audio data; and a digital image related to the digital audio data to a client. By transmitting at least a part of the table information indicating the content of the digital audio data to a management server that manages an image database configured to be distributable, the music information corresponding to the digital audio data is transmitted. Search for a digital image corresponding to the digital audio data by instructing a search, receiving music information corresponding to the digital audio data from the management server, and selecting and designating from the received music information To the management server Indicated, receives the management of the digital image corresponding from the server to the digital audio data distribution, by transmitting a digital image that has received the distribution, to a predetermined output device,
An output control method of a digital image, wherein the digital image is printed on a predetermined recording medium. 2. A first database storing first information related to digital data stored on a recording medium,
Corresponding to the digital data by transmitting information related to the contents of the digital data to a management server that manages an image database configured to distribute digital images related to the digital data to clients. By instructing the search for the first information to be performed, receiving the distribution of the first information corresponding to the digital data from the management server, and selecting and designating from the received first information, Instructing the management server to search for a digital image corresponding to the digital data, receiving distribution of the digital image corresponding to the digital data from the management server, and outputting the received digital image to a predetermined output device. Image to be printed on a predetermined print medium by transmitting the digital image to a digital image. Output control method of. 3. A first database storing first information related to digital data stored on a recording medium,
An image database configured to deliver digital images related to the digital data to a client is managed, and first information related to the digital data stored in the recording medium according to a request from the client is stored as the first information.
Of the retrieved first information, and delivers the retrieved first information to the client. Based on response information from the client to the first information delivered to the client, the digital data stored in the recording medium is converted into digital data. An image distribution method comprising: searching for related digital images and distributing the searched digital images to the client. 4. A first database storing first information related to digital data stored on a recording medium,
An image database configured to be capable of delivering a digital image related to digital data stored in the recording medium to a client, and receiving a request from the client, first information related to the digital data or A management server comprising: a search unit that searches for a digital image; and a data distribution unit that sends the result of the search performed by the search unit to the client. 5. A billing processing unit for billing a fee for providing the digital image, provided that the digital image transmitted by the data distribution unit is copyrighted. The management server according to item 4. 6. A billing process comprising: a completion notice receiving unit that receives a completion notice indicating that an image has been printed on a predetermined print medium on the client side based on the digital image transmitted by the data distribution unit. The management server according to claim 5, wherein the section charges a fee for the provision of the digital image on condition that the completion notification receiving section receives the completion notification. 7. An image output control terminal for controlling output of a digital image related to digital data stored in a recording medium, wherein the image output control terminal stores first information related to digital data stored in the recording medium. By transmitting information related to the content of the digital data to a management server that manages a first database and an image database configured to distribute digital images related to the digital data, A first search instructing unit for instructing a search for the first information corresponding to the digital data; and a distribution of the first information corresponding to the digital data from the management server. Secondly instructing the management server to search for a digital image corresponding to the digital data by selectively designating from among the information A search instructing unit, a data receiving unit that receives a digital image corresponding to the digital data from the management server, and a digital image received by the image receiving unit to a predetermined output device so that the digital image is displayed. An image output control terminal, comprising: a print control unit for printing on a predetermined print medium. 8. A drive device for driving the recording medium, wherein the first search instruction section stores the contents of the digital data stored in the recording medium when the recording medium is attached to the drive device. The image output control terminal according to claim 7, wherein the information related to the above is acquired from the drive device, and the acquired information is transmitted. 9. The recording medium is an audio recording medium in which digital audio data is stored, and the first search instructing unit sets the audio recording medium to the audio recording medium when the audio recording medium is attached to the drive device. Obtaining table information indicating the contents of the stored digital audio data from the drive device,
The image output control terminal according to claim 8, wherein a search for music information corresponding to the digital audio data is instructed by transmitting at least a part of the acquired table information. 10. The second search instruction unit receives distribution of music information corresponding to the digital audio data from the management server, and selects and specifies from among the received music information, the digital search is performed. The image output control terminal according to claim 9, wherein the management server is instructed to search for a digital image corresponding to audio data. 11. An image synthesizing unit configured to synthesize a digital image received by the data receiving unit and predetermined input information to generate a synthetic image, wherein the print control unit is generated by the image synthesizing unit. 11. The composite image including the digital image is printed on a predetermined print medium by transmitting the combined image to the predetermined output device, and the composite image is printed. Image output control terminal. 12. The output processing apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising a charging processing unit that charges a fee for providing the digital image on condition that the image is printed on the predetermined print medium. Any one of 11
The image output control terminal according to item. 13. A completion notification transmission unit for transmitting, to the management server, a completion notification indicating that an image has been printed, on condition that the charging processing unit has charged for the provision of the digital image. Claim 1 characterized by the above-mentioned.
The image output control terminal according to 2. 14. A program for causing an electronic computer to execute a process of delivering a digital image associated with digital data to a client, the computer comprising: a first computer associated with digital data stored in a recording medium. A first database that stores information, and an image database that is configured to be able to deliver digital images related to digital data stored in the recording medium to a client are managed, and upon receipt of a request from the client, A program that causes a search unit to search for first information or digital images related to digital data, and a data distribution unit to send a result searched by the search unit to the client. 15. A program for causing an electronic computer to execute a process of printing out a digital image related to digital data stored in a recording medium by a predetermined output device, wherein the electronic computer is stored in the recording medium. To a management server that manages a first database that stores first information related to stored digital data, and an image database that is configured to distribute digital images related to the digital data, A first search instruction unit for instructing a search for the first information corresponding to the digital data by transmitting information related to the content of the digital data; and the first search instruction unit corresponding to the digital data from the management server. By receiving the delivery of the information of No. 1 and selecting and designating from the delivered first information, the digital data A second search instruction unit for instructing the management server to search for a digital image corresponding to the digital data, a data receiving unit for receiving a digital image corresponding to the digital data from the management server, and the image receiving unit A program that causes a digital image received by the printer to function as a print control unit that prints the digital image on a predetermined print medium by transmitting the digital image to a predetermined output device. 16. A computer-readable storage medium that stores a program for causing an electronic computer to execute a process of distributing a digital image related to digital data to a client, the program storing the computer. A first database that stores first information related to digital data stored in a medium; and an image database configured to be able to distribute a digital image related to digital data stored in the recording medium to a client. A search unit that manages and receives a request from the client to search for the first information or digital image related to the digital data, and a data distribution unit that sends the search result to the client. A computer-readable storage medium characterized by causing it to function. 17. A computer-readable storage medium that stores a program for causing an electronic computer to execute a process of printing out a digital image related to digital data stored in a recording medium by a predetermined output device, The program is configured to allow the electronic computer to deliver a first database storing first information related to digital data stored in the recording medium, and an image configured to deliver a digital image related to the digital data. A first search instruction unit for instructing a search for the first information corresponding to the digital data by transmitting information relating to the contents of the digital data to a management server that manages a database. , Receiving the distribution of the first information corresponding to the digital data from the management server, and receiving the distribution. A second search instructing unit for instructing the management server to search for a digital image corresponding to the digital data by selectively designating from the first digit information; and the management server corresponding to the digital data. Functioning as a data receiving unit for receiving a digital image and a print control unit for printing the digital image on a predetermined print medium by transmitting the digital image received by the image receiving unit to a predetermined output device. A computer-readable storage medium characterized by the above.