JP2001136505A - Device and method for decoding data, device and method for processing charging information, and device an method for reproducing data - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a charging process which complies with various charging process conditions and to safely send audience right data to a user. SOLUTION: Reproduced data are supplied to a decoder 11 and decoded. A reproduction condition label detection part 401 detects a reproduction condition label. An expander 12 performs the decoding of compression encoding. A watermark detection part 402 checks as to whether the reproduction condition is forged. An audition right counter 403 alters the audition right data each time the reproduced data are decoded. A memory part 16 stores the audition right data sent from a prepaid data charger 204 by an antenna 18 and a communication module 17. In the communication module 17, modules for coding and decoding are provided. A watermark addition part 404 adds a watermark to data to be outputted, and a D/A converter 13 performs conversion into an analog output, and is output to the outside.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a data decoding apparatus and method applied to, for example, music distribution, a billing information processing apparatus and method, and a data reproducing apparatus and method.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Compact Disc (C)
D), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc or Digita
l Video Disc) and the like, various types of copy protection techniques for preventing illegal copying have been proposed and put into practical use for copyright protection. For example, SCMS (Serial
Copy Management System (CD) can be converted from CD to MD (Mini Dis
Even if the first generation copy to c) is permitted, the second generation copy from the MD to another medium is prohibited. Also,
There is also known a copy generation restriction method for restricting what generation copy can be created.

On the other hand, recently, with the rapid development of networks such as the Internet, music contents have been distributed via networks. Under such circumstances, EMD (Electronic Musi) using networks such as the Internet and satellite broadcasting
c Distribution) has started, and a copyright management method in EMD has been proposed. In EMD, a user can obtain music content by charging. Also in this EMD, techniques such as SCMS and copy generation restriction described above are being used to prevent illegal copying.

As described above, the conventional copyright protection method restricts copying by using copy protection technology and protects the rights of the copyright holder. It was an obstacle in distributing it to For example, one of the conventional copyright protection systems is a levy system. This is DAT (Digital Audio
Taperecorder), which is implemented in MD, and users of digital recording equipment pay compensation that is added to the product price. Nowadays, with the development of networks, hardware (players, players, etc.) are used so that content distributed via networks can be received and played by personal computers (personal computers).
In many cases, media and content do not correspond one-to-one, and such a levy system is not suitable as a copyright protection system.

[0005] When a plurality of songs are recorded on a medium such as a CD, the user may want to listen to only one or a few of the songs, and may not want to purchase the entire medium. is there. In addition, the copy protection technology hinders the promotion and distribution of music content. Rather, distributing music content free of charge enables the advertisement and distribution of the music content to be performed in a short time, and it is also possible to reduce the cost for the advertisement and distribution.

[0006]

In consideration of such a problem, a distribution system in which distribution is free and charging is performed at the time of reproduction is preferable. In such a system, there may be various types of playback charging processing. Conventionally, billing processing according to various kinds of playback billing,
Had not been done. Also, it is necessary to be able to safely pass listening right data for generating a listening right to a user.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a charging process in accordance with a reproducing condition attached to digital data, and to allow viewing right data to be safely transferred. An object of the present invention is to provide a data decoding device and method, a billing information processing device and method, and a data reproducing device and method capable of reproducing digital data according to a reproduction condition.

[0008]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a decoding apparatus for decoding coded or encrypted digital data. Decrypting means, a storing means for storing the viewing right data, and a decrypting means for decrypting the encoded or encrypted data in accordance with an instruction of reproduction condition information attached to the digital data. A data decoding device comprising: charging control means for performing a charging process by changing viewing right data.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a decoding method for decoding encoded or encrypted digital data, comprising the steps of: decoding the encoded or encrypted digital data; Performing a charging process by making a change to the stored viewing right data in accordance with an instruction of reproduction condition information attached to the digital data at the time of decoding. .

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in a billing information processing device for relaying viewing right data between a decision center and a data decoding device, the billing information processing device can be shared among a plurality of data decoding devices. It is a charging information processing apparatus characterized by being a portable type.

[0011] The invention according to claim 11 is a billing information processing device for relaying viewing right data between a decision center and a data decoding device, wherein the billing information device is connected directly to the decision center via a wired or wireless communication means or to another decision center. Communication means capable of relaying and connecting devices, means for securely obtaining viewing right data from a decision center, storage means for storing viewing right data, and secure transfer of viewing right data between external devices. And an interface having means for transferring all or part of the information.

The invention according to claim 17 is a billing information processing device for relaying viewing right data between a decision center and a data decoding device, wherein a part of the viewing right data is safely exchanged with an external device. Or an interface having means for transferring all of them, and storage means for storing viewing right data, wherein the interface is capable of transferring viewing right data to and from an IC card. Device.

A twenty-first aspect of the present invention is a billing information processing method for relaying viewing right data between a decision center and a data decoding device, wherein the billing information processing method is either directly to the decision center via a wired or wireless communication means or to another decision center. Relaying and connecting the device, securely obtaining the viewing right data from the approval center, storing the viewing right data, and securely or partially transferring all or part of the viewing right data between external devices. And a transferring step.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the compression encoding and / or
Alternatively, in a data reproducing apparatus for reproducing encrypted digital data, a decoding apparatus for decoding digital data is provided. The decoding apparatus stores decoding means for decoding coded or encrypted digital data, and viewing right data. Storage means for performing the charge processing by changing the viewing right data in the storage means in accordance with the instruction of the reproduction condition information attached to the digital data when decoding the encoded or encrypted data. And a charging control unit for performing the charging.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, compression encoding and / or
Alternatively, in a data reproducing method for reproducing encrypted digital data, a step of decoding the encoded or encrypted digital data, and a step of decoding the encoded or encrypted data, And performing a billing process by making a change to the stored viewing right data in accordance with an instruction of the playback condition information.

By changing the viewing right data in accordance with the reproduction condition information, it is possible to cope with various kinds of charging processing. Also, it is safe to pass the viewing right data to the user.

[0017]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS One embodiment of the present invention will be described below. First, an outline of the content distribution system will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG.
Indicates a content provider, and 102 indicates a content server. The content provider 101 produces and distributes content. The record company is one of the content providers 101. The content provider 101 also performs compression encoding, encryption, and embedding of a watermark on the content. The content server 102 stores the content produced by the content provider 101.

Reference numeral 103 denotes a copyright management mechanism. For example, JASRAC (Japan Music Copyright Association) is a specific example of the copyright management mechanism 102. Content provider 100
Registers the right with the copyright management mechanism 103 and receives a copyright fee from the copyright management mechanism 103.

Reference numeral 104 denotes a user device having a content reproducing function. The user device 104 plays the distributed content. That is, decrypt the encryption,
By decoding the compression encoding, the content can be reproduced. A content distribution company intervenes between the content server 102 and the user device 104 as necessary, and distributes the content in the content server 102 to the user. There are several distribution means used by distribution companies. One of them is a store 105. For example, a medium in which contents are recorded is distributed as an appendix of a magazine. In addition, a wired network 106 such as the Internet or CATV (cable television) is used as a content distribution means.
Further, a mobile phone network 107 and a satellite network 108 such as satellite broadcasting and satellite communication are also used as a means for distributing contents.

According to the present invention, it does not prevent the use of the content distribution means for pay distribution as the content distribution means. In the case of a medium such as a CD, the copyright fee for the recorded music is
Included in the price. Free distribution and decryption (playback)
May be recorded in an area other than the area on the CD where the paid content is recorded.

FIG. 1 shows an extended CD 121 as one of the media distributed by the store 105. Extension C
The area 122 on the inner peripheral side of D121 is an area in which music data in the same format as that of the existing CD and whose distribution is paid and whose reproduction is free is recorded. The area 123 on the outer peripheral side is an area in which contents to which the present invention is applied, that is, contents in which distribution is free and reproduction is charged are recorded. Since the content is compression-encoded, music data of a required length can be recorded even if the area 123 is small.

In the case of a medium such as an MD or a memory card other than a CD, areas that can be distinguished from each other include contents whose distribution is free and whose reproduction is free, and contents whose distribution is free and whose reproduction is payable. Can be recorded.
In addition, a service that distributes music content using satellite television broadcasting may be used to distribute content whose distribution is free and whose reproduction is charged.

The user equipment 104 can receive the content free of charge. In addition, the received content can be freely redistributed. Here, “free” does not include actual costs such as communication costs and electricity costs, and means that copyright fees are free. A billing process is performed when the content received by the user device 104 is reproduced, more specifically, when the encryption is decrypted. The prepaid data 109 is used for billing processing. Prepaid data 1
09 is stored in a memory in the prepaid card and the secure decoder. The prepaid data 109 can be rewritten by a charging charger under the control of a prepaid data management company. The prepaid data 109 is, for example, a reproducible frequency, and the frequency is decremented each time the user device 104 reproduces the content to be charged.

In addition, a billing / decision center 110 exists for the settlement of the price in connection with the content provider 101, the copyright management mechanism 103, and the user device 104. The billing / decision center 110 communicates with the authentication / billing server 1
11 is provided. The billing / decision center 110 is a bank, a credit company, or the like.

When the user device 104 requests the reproduction of the received content, it requests the authentication / charging server 111 to authenticate the user device 104 (indicated by the route A1). If the user device 104 is authentic and the authentication is established, the authentication / billing server 111
4 is requested to be charged (path A2). The user device 104 communicates with the accounting / decision center 110,
A payment decision is made (path A3).

The billing / decision center 110 informs the authentication / billing server 111 that the billing has been made, as shown by the route A4,
Is requested for the content (path A5). The content server 102 passes the key data for decrypting the encryption to the authentication / billing server 111 (path A6). The authentication / billing server 111 passes the key data to the user device 104 (path A7). The user device 104 can decrypt and reproduce the encryption using the key data. By being decoded, it is determined that the content has been reproduced, and the frequency of the prepaid data 109 is decremented by, for example, -1. When the frequency reaches 0, the user equipment 1
09 cannot be decoded.

FIG. 2 shows an example of a management system for the prepaid data 109. The player 201 is shown as corresponding to the user 104. Player 201
Has a built-in secure decoder 202. The player 201 is, for example, a portable audio device.
In FIG. 2, music content is recorded on a medium (optical disk, memory card, or the like) reproduced by the player 201, as indicated by a broken line. As shown in FIG. 1, various methods for distributing music content can be used.

Reference numeral 204 denotes a prepaid data charger. The prepaid data charger 204 exists between the secure decoder 202 of the player 201 and the prepaid data management company 205 or the data vending machine 206 and functions as a prepaid data relay. The secure decoder 202 communicates with the prepaid data charger 204, and the prepaid data is transferred from the prepaid data charger 204 to a memory in the secure decoder 202. The prepaid data corresponds to, for example, information on the number of reproducible times or reproducible time of the player 201. Further, the playback history information (playback log) of the player 201 is transmitted from the player 201 to the prepaid data charger 204. The reproduction log includes the identifier of the decrypted digital data and / or the condition of the decryption. Specifically, it includes information such as the type of music content that has been listened, the number of times of reproduction, and the reproduction time. The secure decoder 202 and the prepaid data charger 204
Authentication is performed, and when the authentication is established, the encrypted prepaid data and the reproduction log are transmitted.

The prepaid data is transferred from the prepaid data management company 205 or the prepaid data vending machine 206 to the prepaid data charger 204. Also in this case, authentication and encryption are performed to ensure security. The playback log downloaded to the prepaid data charger 204 is stored in the prepaid data management company 20.
5 or the prepaid data vending machine 206. The prepaid data vending machine 206 receives the prepaid data from the prepaid data management company 205 and sends a reproduction log to the prepaid data management company 205. Further, the price of the prepaid data to be obtained is transferred to the management
Pay for.

Between the prepaid data management company 205 and the prepaid data charger 204, for example, the prepaid data and the reproduction log are transmitted and received via the telephone line 207. Also in this case, authentication and encryption are performed to ensure security. Regarding the settlement of prepaid data, there is a charging / decision center 208 such as a bank or a credit company. Billing / Authorization Center 2
08, the amount corresponding to the prepaid data written in the secure decoder 202 is deducted from the bank account of the user registered in advance based on the request of the prepaid data management company 205.

Further, a prepaid data management company 205
Is entrusted by the content provider 101 to manage services related to prepaid data. In addition, the prepaid data management company 205 is the content provider 1
01 is provided with a technology relating to prepaid data, and further, a music listening fee is paid. As described with reference to FIG. 1, the content provider 101 requests the copyright management by registering the copyright to the copyright management mechanism 103, and the copyright management mechanism 103 Receive a royalty.

Although omitted in FIG. 2, the prepaid data charger 204 can move, add, and divide a part or all of the viewing right data with another charger through a communication device such as a non-contact communication device. It has been. Further, the prepaid data charger 204 is provided for the player 2.
In addition to the secure decoder 202 of No. 01, the listening right data can be transferred to a prepaid card having an IC card configuration.

FIG. 3 shows the overall configuration of the player 201 having the secure decoder 202. The secure decoder 201 is configured as a one-chip IC, as indicated by a broken line. Also, the secure decoder 201
Has a so-called tamper resistant configuration. That is, the configuration is such that the contents cannot be understood from the outside and cannot be falsified.

The medium 1 stores music data that has been compression-encoded and encrypted. Further, data necessary for the reproduction accounting process accompanies the compression-encoded and encrypted data. The compression-encoded and encrypted data is referred to as content data, and the data for playback charging processing is referred to as accompanying data. However, in the present invention, it is not always necessary that both the compression encoding and the encryption are performed. Even with compression encoding alone, the purpose of copyright protection can be achieved if the decoding method is not disclosed.

As the medium 1, a memory card, a recordable optical disk, a read-only optical disk, or the like can be used. In the case of a recordable medium, as described above, it is possible to download data distributed via a network such as a satellite network, a mobile phone network, or the Internet. Content data and accompanying data recorded on the medium 1 are supplied to the secure decoder 202 via the interface 2. From the secure decoder 202, an analog audio signal is output. The analog audio signal is reproduced by a speaker, headphones or the like via an amplifier or the like.

The secure decoder 202 includes an encryption decoder 11, a compression encoder decompressor 12, and a D / A converter 1.
And 3. The encryption is DES (Data Encr
yption Standard). DES is one type of block cipher that blocks plain text and performs cipher conversion for each block. DES is 64 bits for a 64-bit input.
A cryptographic conversion is performed using a bit (56-bit key and 8-bit parity) key, and 64 bits are output. DE
Encryption other than S may be used. For example, DES is a common key system that uses the same key data for encryption and decryption, but may use RSA encryption, which is an example of public key encryption that uses different key data for encryption and decryption. The key data is, as described above, the user device 104 for which authentication has been established.
Passed to.

The secure decoder 202 includes a control unit 14 including a CPU, a CPU interface 15 for performing communication between the control unit 14 and an external CPU, and a memory unit 1.
6, a communication unit 17 and an antenna 18 for receiving prepaid data from the prepaid charger and transmitting a reproduction log to the prepaid charger.
The control unit 14 receives the associated data separated in the previous stage of decoding in the decoder 11, and performs control for decoding and decompressing.

The communication unit 17 and the antenna 18
This is for performing communication with the prepaid data charger in a non-contact manner. This communication is performed using an encrypted protocol, provided that the communication is authenticated. Since not only data but also power can be received from the charger, even if the power of the entire player 201 is off, reception of prepaid data and transmission of a reproduction log can be performed. The received prepaid data is stored in the memory unit 16. Further, the player 20
1 is also stored in the memory unit 16. Memory unit 1
Reference numeral 6 denotes a non-volatile memory that retains its stored contents even when the power is turned off.

The copy output can be output from the decoder 11 to the outside of the secure decoder 202. Whether or not to output is controlled by the control unit 14. The output copy output includes the accompanying information and the content data. Further, the decoder 11 and the decompressor 12
It has a function of omitting the decoding process and the decompression process, respectively, based on an instruction from the control unit 14. Thereby,
It is possible to reproduce audio data that has not been encrypted and audio data that has not been compression-encoded (linear PCM).

In order to control the overall operation of the player 201, a system controller indicated by 21 is provided. The system controller 21 includes a CPU,
The operation of the secure decoder 202 is controlled by communicating with the control unit 14 in the secure decoder 202. Also, an operation unit 22, a display 23, a memory unit 24, a modem 2 via a bus with the system controller 21.
5 is connected. Further, the system controller 2
1 is a reproducing operation of the medium 1 and a medium interface 2
Control the operation of.

The operation unit 22 is a switch, a key or the like operated by a user, and generates an instruction for controlling the operation of the player 201. The display 23 is made of, for example, a liquid crystal, and is used for displaying a menu for controlling the operation of the player 201 and displaying an operation state. The memory unit 24 is an external memory provided because the capacity of the memory in the system controller 21 is small. The modem 25 is connected to a public line and used for data communication with the outside. For example, the secure decoder 20
By transferring the reproduction log in the second memory section 16 to the memory section 24, the remaining number of reproducible times or reproducible time can be displayed on the display 23, and the replay log can be transmitted via the modem 25. Have been. Further, it is also possible to receive the prepaid data via the modem 25.

The user operates the operation unit 22 to instruct reproduction of a desired content in the medium 1. If the content is free for reproduction, even if an analog output is generated through the secure decoder 202, the prepaid data stored in the memory unit 16 is not changed. If the reproduced content is to be charged for reproduction, the prepaid data in the memory unit 16 is changed.

Various types of billing processes are possible. The charging process is roughly classified into a purchase type, a type in which a viewing fee is charged to gross, and a frequency type in which a viewing fee is charged every time the encryption is decrypted by the secure decoder. The purchase type is a type that is not charged for the reproduction process once purchased. The type in which the viewing fee is charged to the gross is a monthly type in which the viewing fee is paid together, a viewing period, a type in which the viewing time is limited, and the like.

Several forms are possible as a frequency type in which a viewing fee is charged each time the encryption is decrypted by the secure decoder. In the first mode, the amount or frequency is subtracted from a preset amount (prepaid card, electronic money) or frequency each time the content is reproduced. If the balance or the remaining frequency is insufficient, the reproduction cannot be performed. In the second mode, an amount or a frequency is added every time the content is reproduced. When the accumulated amount or frequency reaches a preset amount or frequency, reproduction becomes impossible. In the third mode, the frequency or the amount is added or subtracted according to the reproduction time of the content.

The amount of money or the frequency may be fixed or weighted according to the content. The charging process is performed in correspondence with one title of the content (one song in the example of music) or a plurality of titles of the content (album in the example of music).

As a method of defining the content reproduction processing, the reproduction may be performed when the entire content is reproduced, or the reproduction may be performed when the reproduction time of the content is longer than a predetermined time. It may be good. In addition, there is no charge for the reproduction of promotional content for promoting diffusion and distribution. Further, even for the content to be charged, for example, the reproduction of the top part of the content, for example, 10 seconds from the top, may be free, or the reproduction of only the highlight part of the content may be free. As described above, when the content charged for the reproduction process and the content whose reproduction process is free are mixed, the charge / free is identified by the accompanying information.

The accompanying information is data added before the content data (compression-encoded and encrypted content, for example, audio data). The accompanying information is encrypted as needed. In addition, on the recordable medium, it is added before the content data and recorded, or is recorded in the data management area of the medium 1. In the case of a read-only medium, accompanying information is recorded in the data management area. In the case of an optical disk, a management area is generally provided in an innermost area of the disk. In the case of a memory card, for example, file management data in which one piece of music data is treated as one file is defined.

In the accompanying data, a charging identifier indicating whether the content is to be charged or free of charge, and charging types such as purchase type, gross type and frequency type as described above are distinguished. A playback condition label indicating a condition is included. As an example, in the case of the purchase type, the purchase price data is described in the reproduction condition label,
In the case of limiting the gross type reproduction number, the data of the reproduction number is described in the reproduction condition label. In the case of restricting the gross type reproduction period, the data of the reproduction period (one day, one week, one month, etc.) It is described as a reproduction condition label, and in the case of the frequency type, frequency data (1 yen / 2 minutes, 1 yen / 1
Minutes, 1 yen / 30 seconds,...) Are described as reproduction condition labels. Furthermore, even if the content is premised on charging, the condition for viewing the content for free can be described in the reproduction condition label.

In the accompanying information, information indicating the type of compression encoding of the content data, information indicating the type of encryption and encryption parameters, information on the number of channels, information on the bit rate, and the like are recorded. May be.

Further, in the accompanying information, a media ID for uniquely identifying a medium such as a CD, an MD, a recordable optical disk, and a memory card including a non-volatile memory.
For example, a serial number is included. Further, a decoder ID is arranged in the accompanying information. The decoder ID is an ID for uniquely identifying a secure decoder built in a user terminal, a user player, or the like, for example, a serial number.

Next, an example of the accounting process performed in the player 201 (see FIG. 3) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This processing is performed by the control unit 14 and the system controller 21 in the secure decoder 202.
It is done by The first step S1 is
The playback standby state is such that the content to be played back exists on the medium 1. Specifically, when the content distributed by EMD is stored in the medium 1 or when the content is already recorded on the medium 1, the reproduction standby is performed. In step S2, it is determined whether or not a reproduction instruction has been issued by the user pressing the reproduction button of the operation unit 22.

That the result of step S2 is negative,
It is meant to mean a copy operation. Step S
In 3, it is determined whether the content is a copy of the content for free reproduction. Free playback content means content for which playback is not charged. The determination in step S3 is made with reference to the identifier included in the accompanying information. If the content is free reproduction content, the copy output of the decrypted code from the secure decoder 202 is prohibited for copyright protection (step S4).

If it is determined in step S3 that the content is not a copy of the content for free reproduction, that is, a copy of the content for charge reproduction, a copy of the content for charge reproduction is output from the secure decoder 202 (step S5). ). Copying of the content for billing reproduction is free. However, this copy output is data that has been encrypted and compression-encoded with the accompanying information.

If it is determined in step S2 that the reproducing operation has been instructed, it is asked in step S6 whether or not to accept the charging process. For example, player 2
01, a message is displayed on the display 23, and the user responds by operating the operation unit 22. If the user does not accept the billing process, free reproduction cannot be performed (step S7). However, there is a case where partial free reproduction indicated by the reproduction condition label, for example, reproduction of a head portion or a highlighted portion of a music piece can be performed free of charge. If the accounting process is to be accepted, in step S8, a playback accounting condition relating to the content to be actually reproduced is presented on the display 23. A billing condition is presented based on the information on the reproduction condition label in the accompanying information.

In step S9, it is determined whether the charging type is the purchase type. If it is a purchase type, a charge for purchase is made (step S10). Then, step S11
In the decoder 11 of the secure decoder 202,
The encryption is decrypted using the key, and free reproduction is performed in step S12. In this case, copying of the content to be reproduced for free is prohibited. However, a move, that is, a process in which the original data is not left unlike the copy, is possible.

If it is determined in step S9 that the type is not the purchase type, it is determined in step S13 whether the type is a gross type, for example, a monthly type. If a monthly contract exists, it is determined in step S14 whether or not the song is a contracted song. If so, free reproduction is performed in step S15. Copying of the content for billing reproduction can be freely performed.

If it is determined in step S13 that the content is not of the monthly type, it is determined that the content is to be charged in the frequency type. Then, in step S17,
The encryption is decrypted, and charging reproduction is performed in step S18. In the charging reproduction, as described above, charging is performed according to the frequency of reproduction, the reproduction time, and the like. Copying of the content for billing reproduction can be freely performed. Further, in the case where it is determined in step S14 that it is not within the range of the monthly contract, the charging reproduction process (steps S17 and S18) is performed.

FIG. 5 shows the prepaid data charger 20.
4 shows an example configuration. The charger 204 has, for example, a portable configuration that is portable. Reference numeral 301 denotes a CPU for controlling the entire charger, and 302 denotes an encryption /
Shows a decoding module, 303 shows a display (for example, a liquid crystal display), and 304 shows key buttons operated by a user. The display 303 displays a menu related to the operation of the charger, charging processing conditions, and the like. Encryption / decryption module 302
Performs encryption processing at the time of transmission and decryption processing of encryption at the time of reception. Reference numeral 305 denotes a data charger individual ID. The data charger individual ID 305 is transmitted to, for example, the decision center together with the reproduction log so that the correspondence between the data charger and the reproduction log can be understood.

The modem 30 is used for communication with the settlement center (the prepaid data management company 205 in FIG. 2).
6 and a USB (Universal Serial Bus) communication module 307 are provided. The modem 306 communicates with the decision center via a telephone line, receives prepaid data from the decision center, and transmits a reproduction log to the decision center. USB
Using the communication module 307, communication with the decision center can be similarly performed by a personal computer and the Internet.

The data charger 204 from the approval center
Are stored in the prepaid data memory 308. Further, the reproduction log received from the secure decoder 202 of the player 201 is stored in the usage status memory 309. Charger 204 if necessary
The log data in which the log No. is added to the reproduction log is transmitted to the decision center. The memories 308 and 309 are nonvolatile memories that retain their stored contents even when the power is turned off.

The non-contact communication module 310 and the antenna 311 are for performing communication with the player 201 in a non-contact manner. This communication is performed using an encrypted protocol, provided that the communication is authenticated. Not only data but also secure decoder 202
Is required to be transmitted to the player. Therefore, even if the main power supply of the player 202 is off, it is possible to transfer the prepaid data and the reproduction log. In addition to the antenna 311, a terminal for line connection is also provided. The communication with the prepaid data vending machine 206 is performed using the non-contact communication module 310 and the antenna 311 or the line.

FIG. 6 shows a more detailed configuration of the secure decoder 202, that is, a functional configuration related to a charging process. Parts corresponding to the components shown in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals. Reproduced data composed of encrypted and compression-encoded content data and accompanying data from the medium 1 is supplied to the decoder 11. The decoder 11 is also supplied with a medium individual ID for uniquely identifying the medium 1. The decryption of the encryption is performed by the decryptor 11.

The output data of the decoder 11 is supplied to a reproduction condition label detecting section 401, and a reproduction condition label in the accompanying data is detected. The detected reproduction condition label is used for the processing of the secure decoder 202. In the stretcher 12,
The decoding of the compression encoding is performed. Output data of the decompressor 12 is supplied to the watermark detection unit 402. The watermark detection unit 402 detects the watermark added at the time of analog output, and checks whether or not the reproduction condition label has been tampered based on the detected watermark and the reproduction condition label.

Reference numeral 403 denotes a listening right counter. As will be described in more detail later, the listening right counter 403 changes the listening right data every time the reproduced data is decoded. For example, a process of subtracting prepaid data, for example, frequency data stored in the memory unit 16 is performed. The prepaid data stored in the memory unit 16 is data transmitted from the above-described prepaid data charger 204 by the antenna 18 (or line) and the communication module 17. In the communication module 17,
An encryption / decryption module is provided. In addition,
Here, we use the term of the right to listen to music data, but when we consider video data,
The term listening rights is used instead of listening rights.

When the processing related to the listening right is performed in the listening right counter 404, the watermark adding unit 404
In, a watermark is added to the output data. The watermark can be added by using a redundant portion existing in the music data, for example, a lower bit of the output audio data. The added watermark remains even after being converted to an analog signal, and it is impossible or very difficult to remove the watermark. The watermark to be added includes data of all or a part of the reproduction condition label and information of the decoder individual ID 405. The data to which the watermark is added is converted into an analog output by the D / A converter 13 and output to the outside of the secure decoder 202. The watermark detection unit 402 described above detects the watermark added in this manner.

The secure decoder 202 has an IC card interface, the prepaid data charger 204 receives electronic money from a decision center or a financial company, and receives the received electronic money through an interface provided in the secure decoder 202. May be recorded. That is, the function as a recording device of electronic money can be provided as an optional device for writing the prepaid data.

FIG. 7 shows the listening right counter 403 in more detail. Here, an example applied to a case where the accounting process is performed in a frequency type will be described. That is, the frequency is subtracted every time the music data is reproduced from the preset frequency, the frequency is added every time the music data is reproduced, or the frequency is added according to the reproduction time of the music data. Or is subtracted.

The playback condition label extracting unit 411 extracts playback condition labels from playback data, for example, music data.
The reproduction condition label includes a charging condition. Also,
The basic clock extracting unit 412 extracts the basic clock for accounting from the music data. The basic clock is generated only while the music data is being output from the expander 12. The cycle of the basic clock is fixed for each piece of music data, and occurs at a cycle of 2 minutes, 1 minute, 30 seconds, or the like. A plurality of basic clocks may correspond to these periods. Then, the cycle is treated as a unit of billing. That is, one cycle corresponds to one frequency and also corresponds to a unit of time.

Based on the extracted basic clock and the reproduction condition label, the prepaid data count control unit 41
3 controls the count. That is, the prepaid data stored in the prepaid data memory 414 (part of the memory unit 16) is subtracted or added with reference to the reproduction condition label, and the prepaid data is rewritten. If the playback time or the playback period is set as the playback condition, the timer / calendar is subjected to a process of accumulating the playback time or a process of comparing the current date and time with the playback time limit.

Prepaid data count control section 413
Determines whether or not reproduction is possible. For example, when the frequency of reproduction is subtracted and the remaining becomes 0, it is determined that reproduction is impossible. When the cumulative frequency reaches the set frequency, when the accumulation of the reproduction time reaches the set time, or when the current date and time exceeds the reproduction time limit, it is similarly determined that reproduction is impossible. The music data gate unit 416 is controlled based on the determination result. When the music data can be reproduced, the music data is output through the gate unit 416. When the music data cannot be reproduced, the output of the music data is output to the gate unit 41.
6 forbidden.

FIG. 8 shows the processing of the watermark detection unit 402 in the secure decoder 202 shown in FIG.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When the watermark detection process S21 is started, in step S22, a watermark extraction process is performed.
Then, in step S23, it is determined whether or not the watermark has been correctly extracted.

If it is determined that the watermark cannot be extracted correctly, the music reproduction data is output assuming that the watermark has not been added (step S2).
4). When the watermark is extracted correctly,
In step S25, it is determined whether or not the data of the reproduction condition label is included in the watermark. If it is determined that the playback condition label is not included, the music playback data is output (step S24).

If it is determined in step S25 that the watermark contains the data of the reproduction condition label, the reproduction condition label in the watermark and the accompanying information detected by the reproduction condition label detection unit 401 are determined in step S26. A collation process with the middle reproduction condition label is performed. In step S27, it is determined whether or not these reproduction condition labels are the same. If they are the same, music reproduction data is output (step S24). If they are not the same, it is determined that the playback condition label may have been tampered with, and no music playback data is output (step S28).

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a watermark adding process performed by the watermark adding unit 404 of the secure decoder 202. When the watermark addition process S31 is started, it is determined in step S32 whether the watermark detection unit 402 has correctly extracted the watermark. If the data has been correctly extracted, the reproduction data is output without adding a watermark (step S33). That is, the watermark embedded in the reproduction data is not changed.

If the result of step S32 is negative, data to be added to the watermark is generated in steps S34 and S35. Step S34 is
This is a process of generating data to be added to the watermark from the reproduction condition label. A part or all of the reproduction condition label is inserted as a watermark. The data to be embedded as the watermark is not limited to the data of the reproduction condition label itself, but may be data subjected to arithmetic processing such as a hash value. Step S35 is processing for generating data to be inserted into the watermark from the individual ID of the secure decoder. A part or all of the data of the secure decoder individual ID is put in the watermark. By inserting an individual ID, a secure decoder to which a watermark has been added can be specified.

Then, in step S36, a watermark composed of the data generated as described above is embedded in the music data. As described above, the watermark is embedded using the redundant portion of the music data. The watermark is digitally added, but remains after being converted into an analog signal, and it is impossible or very difficult to remove the watermark. In step S37, reproduction data is output with a watermark added.

In the above-described embodiment, audio content has been mainly described. However, content other than audio, such as video data, still image data, character data, computer graphic data, game software, and computer programs, can also be used. The present invention can be applied in the same manner as described above.

[0078]

As is apparent from the above description, according to the present invention, accounting processing can be performed according to various accounting processing conditions. According to the present invention, the viewing right data can be safely delivered to the user.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing an entire system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining prepaid data according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a player according to the embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a charging process according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a prepaid data charger according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a more detailed block diagram of a secure decoder according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a portion related to a charging process of a secure decoder.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a process of detecting a watermark in a secure decoder.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a process of adding a watermark in a secure decoder.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 ... medium in which contents are stored, 11 ... encryption decoder, 12 ... compression / encoding decompression machine, 21 ...
· System controller, 101: Content provider, 103: Copyright management mechanism, 104: User equipment, 109: Prepaid data, 201
・ Player, 202: Secure decoder, 204
..Prepaid data charger

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Claims (23)

[Claims] 1. A decoding device for decoding encoded or encrypted digital data, comprising: decoding means for decoding encoded or encrypted digital data; storage means for storing viewing right data; When decrypting encoded or encrypted data,
A data decoding device comprising: charging control means for performing a charging process by changing the viewing right data in the storage means in accordance with an instruction of reproduction condition information attached to the digital data. 2. The storage device according to claim 1, further comprising storage means for storing an identifier of the decoded digital data and / or decoding conditions, wherein a log is left in the storage means when the digital data is decoded. Data decoding device. 3. An apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an interface capable of securely exchanging data with a specific external device by encrypting the data, and transmitting the viewing right data to the storage means via the interface. A data decoding device capable of being stored. 4. An apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an interface capable of securely exchanging data with a specific external device by encrypting the data, and transmitting log data in said storage means via said interface. A data decoding device characterized by being able to output, input or change. 5. The data decoding device according to claim 3, wherein the interface includes a non-contact communication unit. 6. The data processing system according to claim 5, wherein the interface includes a power receiving unit, and data in the storage unit can be accessed via the interface even when power to the main body is not supplied. Data decoding device. 7. The watermark according to claim 1, wherein, when the data is decoded, a part or all of the reproduction condition information or a result obtained by performing an operation on the data of the reproduction condition information is used as a decryptable watermark. A data decoding device for embedding in output data. 8. The method according to claim 1, wherein when a watermark is added when the data is decoded, the data embedded in the watermark is decoded and is equal to a regular value obtained from reproduction condition information. A data decoding device for outputting decoded data only in a case. 9. A decoding method for decoding encoded or encrypted digital data, comprising the steps of: decoding encoded or encrypted digital data; and decoding the encoded or encrypted data. ,
Performing a charging process by changing the stored viewing right data in accordance with an instruction of the reproduction condition information attached to the digital data. 10. A billing information processing device for relaying viewing right data between a decision center and a data decoding device, wherein the charging information processing device is portable so that it can be shared among a plurality of data decoding devices. A billing information processing apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. 11. A billing information processing device for relaying viewing right data between a decision center and a data decryption device, wherein the billing information device relays viewing right data directly to the decision center via a wired or wireless communication means or via another device. Communication means that can be connected; means for securely obtaining the viewing right data from the approval center; storage means for storing the viewing right data; and some or all of the viewing right data safely between external devices. And an interface having means for transferring the information. 12. The accounting information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the communication means is connectable to a telephone line or the Internet directly or by relaying another device. 13. The viewing right data according to claim 10 or 11, further comprising a storage unit for storing a log recording a use situation, and transferring the viewing right data from the storage unit to an external device via the interface. In this case, a billing information processing apparatus transfers a log recording usage status from the external device to the storage means. 14. The apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, when connected to the decision center, the viewing right data that has been decided by the decision center is transferred to the storage means, and the usage status stored in the storage means is simultaneously determined. A billing information processing apparatus for transferring a recorded log to the settlement center. 15. The charging information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the interface includes a non-contact communication unit. 16. The accounting information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein a part or all of the viewing right data can be moved, added, or divided between the accounting information processing apparatuses through the interface. 17. A billing information processing device for relaying viewing right data between a decision center and a data decoding device, wherein part or all of the viewing right data is safely transferred to and from an external device. And a storage unit for storing the viewing right data, wherein the interface is capable of transferring the viewing right data to and from an IC card. 18. A storage device according to claim 17, further comprising storage means for storing a log recording a use situation, wherein the viewing right data is transferred from the storage means to an external device via the interface. A billing information processing device for transferring a log in which usage status is recorded from the external device to the storage unit. 19. The method according to claim 17, wherein the viewing right data is transferred from the IC card to the storage means, and at the same time, a log recording the use status stored in the storage means is transferred to the IC card. Billing information processing device. 20. The billing information processing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the interface includes a non-contact communication unit. 21. A billing information processing method for relaying viewing right data between a decision center and a data decryption device, comprising the steps of: Connecting; securely obtaining the viewing right data from the approval center; storing the viewing right data; and securely transferring part or all of the viewing right data between external devices. And a billing information processing method. 22. A data reproducing apparatus for reproducing compression-encoded and / or encrypted digital data, comprising: a decoding device for decoding the digital data, wherein the decoding device comprises: A decoding unit for decoding the viewing right data, and a decoding unit for decoding the encoded or encrypted data.
A data reproducing apparatus comprising: charging control means for performing a charging process by changing the viewing right data in the storage means in accordance with an instruction of reproduction condition information attached to the digital data. 23. A data reproducing method for reproducing compression-encoded and / or encrypted digital data, comprising the steps of: decoding encoded or encrypted digital data; and decoding the encoded or encrypted data. When decrypting,
Performing a charging process by changing the stored viewing right data in accordance with an instruction of the reproduction condition information attached to the digital data.