JP2001202566A - Contents data using device, server device, contents data rental system and computer readable recording medium stored with program for making computer function as contents data using device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a contents data using device which does not allow a user to illegally extend the available time of contents data. SOLUTION: This contents data using device 100 includes a contents data storing part 107 for storing the contents data, a ticket data storing part 108 for storing available time data for the contents data and a controlling part 101 controlling the entire contents data using device 100. The part 101 includes a contents data using means for using the contents data, a 1st updating means for updating the available time data stored in an available time storing means at each prescribed time, a comparing means for comparing the value of the available time data with a prescribed value, and an allowing/inhibiting means for allowing or inhibiting the use of the contents data by the contents data using means.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention provides a content data using apparatus that uses digital data (content data) such as video data, music data, book data, and application software for a predetermined time, and provides content data therefor. Server device, content data rental system using the same, computer-readable recording medium recording a program for causing a computer to function as a content data utilization device, and computer-readable recording a program for causing a computer to function as a server device It relates to a possible recording medium. In particular, a content data utilization device, a server device, a content data rental system, a computer readable recording medium recording a program for causing a computer to function as a content data utilization device, and a computer are provided. The present invention relates to a computer-readable recording medium on which a program for functioning as a server device is recorded.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Hitherto, many content data rental systems have been proposed for selling content data so that it can be used for a predetermined period.

[0003] For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-181965 discloses a content data rental system as described below.

A service provider encrypts content data and transmits the encrypted content data using a communication satellite. The service user receives the encrypted content data using the content data using device.
In addition, the service user applies for rental of content data to the service provider. The service provider transmits the encrypted ticket data including the validity period data to the content data using device of the service user who has applied for the rental. Service users,
After receiving the ticket data, when the content data using device instructs the content data using device to reproduce the content data, the content data using device obtains the time obtained from the built-in clock circuit,
The validity period included in the ticket data is compared, and if the validity period is not reached, the content data is reproduced.

[0005]

However, in the conventional content data rental system, the time obtained from the clock circuit built in the content data using device owned by the service user and the valid time included in the ticket data are used. The expiration date of the content data is determined by comparing with the expiration date. Therefore, when the current time of the clock circuit is intentionally changed, there is a problem that the expiration date can be illegally extended.

In order to solve this problem, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No.
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 161937 proposes a method in which an element whose accurate time is initially set by a service provider is used as a clock circuit of a content data utilization device, and the device cannot be tampered with from outside.

However, this method has a problem that expensive and high-performance elements must be used. In addition, since the time cannot be freely set on the content data use device side, there is a problem that the time will eventually be shifted. Furthermore, as a content data utilization device,
There is a problem that a widely used general-purpose personal computer cannot be used.

In Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-6784, a method of connecting to a network line and using a clock of a reference device, and checking a clock built in a content data using device every time content data is used are examined. A method has been proposed in which the use of content data is disqualified if the time goes back.

However, the former method has a problem that it is necessary to connect to a network line in order to use the content data. In the latter case,
Since it is only necessary that the time does not go back, tampering such that the time does not go back (for example, falsification of the clock as if only one minute has passed while actually one day has passed) However, there is a problem that it cannot be detected.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-6784 discloses a method of simultaneously checking the number of uses of content data and disqualifying the use of content data exceeding the common sense upper limit of the latter method. Have been. However, the usage style of content data (especially in application software) varies from user to user, and it is difficult to set an upper limit.

In the conventional content data rental system, the expiration date of the content data is determined as described above. For this reason, for example, after purchasing the content data, there is no time to use the content data for some reason, and even if the content data has not been used at all, it will not be available after the expiration date. There was a problem of getting it.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a content data use apparatus, a server apparatus, and a content data in which a user cannot illegally extend the usable time of content data. By providing a rental system, a computer-readable recording medium recording a program for causing a computer to function as a content data utilizing device, and a computer-readable recording medium recording a program for causing a computer to function as a server device is there.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a content data using apparatus capable of accurately determining the usable time of content data without using a special clock circuit.
Server device, content data rental system, computer-readable recording medium recording program for causing computer to function as content data utilization device, and computer-readable recording medium for recording program for causing computer to function as server device It is to provide.

Still another object of the present invention is to allow a content data use device, a server device, a content data rental system, and a computer to function as a content data use device which do not need to be connected to a network line in order to use content data. It is an object of the present invention to provide a computer-readable recording medium on which a computer program is recorded and a computer-readable recording medium on which a program for causing a computer to function as a server device is recorded.

[0015] Still another object of the present invention is to provide a content data using apparatus which does not make content data unusable even if the user has never used the content data.

[0016]

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a content data use device, comprising: content data storage means for storing content data; and available time storage for storing available time data for the content data. Means, content data use means for using the content data, and a first means for updating the available time data stored in the available time storage means at predetermined time intervals, the first means being connected to the available time storage means. Updating means, and comparing means connected to the available time storage means for comparing the value of the available time data with a predetermined value;
A permission prohibition unit connected to the comparison unit for permitting or prohibiting the use of the content data by the content data use unit based on the comparison result.

Without using the current time, the available time data indicating the remaining time in which the content data can be used is updated every predetermined time. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a user from illegally falsifying the current time information to extend the available time. Further, even if the current time information of the content data use device is falsified, the current time information is not used, so that the usable time of the content data can be accurately determined. Therefore, it is not necessary to use a special clock circuit that cannot be falsified. Further, there is no need to connect to a network line to use the content data.

Preferably, the content data use device further includes identification means connected to the content data use means for identifying content data currently used by the content data use means, and the first update means And a second update unit connected to the identification unit and the available time storage unit and configured to update the available time data of the currently used content data at predetermined time intervals.

Only the available time data for the currently used content data is updated at predetermined time intervals. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a problem that the content data becomes unusable even though the content data has never been used.

[0020] More preferably, the content data use device is further connected to the content data use means and identifies the content data currently used by the content data use means, and the usable time of the content data. Determining means for determining a data update method, wherein the first updating means is connected to the identifying means, the determining means, and the available time storage means,
A second update for updating the available time data of the content data determined to be updated by the determining means and the available time data of the content data currently identified by the identifying means at predetermined time intervals Including means.

Depending on the method of updating the available time data of the content data, only the available time data of the currently used content data is updated at predetermined time intervals. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a problem that the content data becomes unusable even though the content data has never been used.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a server device for storing content data, an available time database for storing available time data or available time limit data of content data, A communication unit for communicating with the content data using device, a current time obtaining unit for obtaining the current time, a current time obtaining unit and the expiration date data are connected to each other. Remaining time calculating means for calculating the available time of
The content data storage means, the available time database, the remaining time calculating means and the communication means are connected to each other, and together with the content data, the available time data or the output of the remaining time calculating means stored in the available time database are output via the communication means. Transmission means for transmitting the content data to the content data utilization device.

The server device transmits the remaining available time of the content data to the content data using device together with the content data. For this reason, the content data using device that has received the information can calculate the remaining time in which the content data can be used without using the current time. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a user from illegally falsifying the current time information to extend the available time. Further, even if the current time information of the content data using device is falsified, the current time information is not used, so that the usable time of the content data can be accurately determined. For this reason, the content data using device does not need to use a special clock circuit that cannot be falsified. Further, the content data using device does not need to be connected to the network line in order to use the content data.

[0024] A content data rental system according to still another aspect of the present invention provides a server device that distributes content data and available time data indicating a time during which the content data can be used, and a network device connected to the server device to distribute the content data. And a content data using device to be used.
Communication means for communicating with the server device, content data storage means connected to the communication means for storing content data distributed from the server device, and available time data for the content data connected to the communication means; An available time storage means for storing, a content data using means for using the content data, and an available time data stored in the available time storage means connected to the available time storage means for each predetermined time First updating means for updating the available time data, a comparing means for comparing the value of the available time data with a predetermined value, and a comparing means connected to the comparing means, based on the comparison result. And permission prohibition means for permitting or prohibiting the use of content data by the content data use means.

The content data use device updates the available time data representing the remaining time in which the content data can be used, at predetermined time intervals, without using the current time.
Therefore, it is possible to prevent a user from illegally falsifying the current time information to extend the available time. Further, even if the current time information of the content data use device is falsified, the current time information is not used, so that the usable time of the content data can be accurately determined. Therefore, it is not necessary to use a special clock circuit that cannot be falsified. Further, there is no need to connect to a network line to use the content data.

A computer-readable recording medium according to still another aspect of the present invention stores a program for causing a computer to function as a content data utilizing device. The content data use device includes a content data storage unit for storing content data, an available time storage unit for storing available time data for the content data, and a content data use unit for using the content data. First update means connected to the available time storage means for updating the available time data stored in the available time storage means at predetermined time intervals; and Comparing means for comparing the value of the time data with a predetermined value, and permission prohibiting means connected to the comparing means for permitting or prohibiting use of the content data by the content data using means based on the comparison result. .

Without using the current time, the available time data indicating the remaining time in which the content data can be used is updated every predetermined time. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a user from illegally falsifying the current time information to extend the available time. Further, even if the current time information of the content data use device is falsified, the current time information is not used, so that the usable time of the content data can be accurately determined. Therefore, it is not necessary to use a special clock circuit that cannot be falsified. Further, there is no need to connect to a network line to use the content data.

A widely used general-purpose personal computer can be used as a content data utilizing device.

A computer-readable recording medium according to still another aspect of the present invention stores a program for causing a computer to function as a server device. The server device includes: a content data storage unit for storing content data; an available time database for storing available time data or available time limit data of the content data; and a communication for communicating with the content data using device. Means, a current time obtaining means for obtaining a current time, a current time obtaining means and a remaining time for calculating a remaining available time from the available time limit data based on the current time and the available time limit data. The time calculation means is connected to the content data storage means, the available time database, the remaining time calculation means and the communication means, and outputs the available time data or the remaining time calculation means stored in the available time database together with the content data. Sent to the content data utilization device via the communication means. And a transmitting means for.

[0030] The server device transmits the remaining available time of the content data to the content data using device together with the content data. For this reason, the content data using device that has received the information can calculate the remaining time in which the content data can be used without using the current time. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a user from illegally falsifying the current time information to extend the available time. Further, even if the current time information of the content data using device is falsified, the current time information is not used, so that the usable time of the content data can be accurately determined. For this reason, the content data using device does not need to use a special clock circuit that cannot be falsified. Further, the content data using device does not need to be connected to the network line in order to use the content data.

A widely used general-purpose personal computer can be used as a server device.

[0032]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] Referring to FIG. 1, a content data rental system according to a first embodiment of the present invention has a ticket in which content data and a usable time of the content data are written. It includes a server device 200 that distributes data, and a content data using device that is connected to the server device 200 via a network, receives content data and ticket data, and uses the content data for an available time defined in the ticket data.

Referring to FIG. 2, content data use apparatus 100 includes a program memory 102 for storing a program for operating control unit 101 described later, and a data memory for storing data used when control unit 101 operates. 103, a communication unit 104 connected by wire or wireless to the server device 200 for performing data communication with the server device 200, and information on the current time to the control unit 101 (hereinafter, “current time information ")
And a timer 106 that outputs a timer interrupt signal and a display unit 106 that displays content data, menus, and the like.

The content data use device 100 further includes a content data storage unit 107 for storing one or more content data, and a content data storage unit 1.
07, a ticket data storage unit 108 for storing ticket data for each content data stored in
An operation unit 109 operated by a user to input an instruction;
The content data use device 10 is connected to the program memory 102, the data memory 103, the communication unit 104, the clock unit 105, the display unit 106, the content data storage unit 107, the ticket data storage unit 108, and the operation unit 109.
And a control unit 101 that performs overall control.

The control unit 101 includes, for example, a CPU (Cent
ral Processing Unit). The program memory 102 is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory).
y) or EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Progr
ammable ROM). This program may be stored in the program memory 102 in advance, or an external recording medium (not shown, such as a CD-ROM)
(Compact Disc-Read Only Memory)) or a communication medium.

The data memory 103 is constituted by, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory) and an EEPROM backed up by a battery. The communication unit 104 is configured by, for example, a modem or a digital mobile phone adapter. The clock unit 105 is constituted by, for example, a real-time clock IC (Integrated Circuit). The clock unit 105 keeps ticking with a backup battery (not shown) even while the power of the content data using apparatus 100 is cut off. The display unit 106 is configured by, for example, a liquid crystal display.

The content data storage unit 107 is constituted by a flash memory card, a CD-ROM, or the like. The content data may be supplied in advance on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM, or may be downloaded from the server device 200 using the communication unit 104. The content data is encrypted and cannot be used unless ticket data described later is purchased. Here, the content data indicates digital data such as video data, music data, book data, and application software (for example, game software).

The ticket data contains usable time data of the content data. The available time data indicates the time during which the content data can be used from the time of purchasing the ticket data.

The operation unit 109 includes, for example, key buttons,
The display unit 106 is configured by a transparent tablet or the like superimposed on the display unit 106.

Referring to FIG. 3, the server device includes a program memory 202 for storing a program for operating a control unit 201, which will be described later, a data memory 203 for storing data used when the control unit 201 operates, A communication unit 204 that is connected to the content data using device 100 by wire or wirelessly and performs data communication with the content data using device 100; a clock unit 205 that outputs current time information to the control unit 201; , A content database 2 for storing a large number of content data
06, a ticket database 207 for storing ticket data of the content data stored in the content database 206, and a control unit 201 for controlling the entire server device 200.

The control unit 201 is constituted by, for example, a CPU. The program memory 202 is, for example, a ROM
And an EEPROM. This program may be stored in the program memory 202 in advance, or an external recording medium (for example, a CD-ROM) not shown
Alternatively, the information may be read from a communication medium or the like and stored.

The data memory 203 is composed of, for example, a battery-backed-up RAM or EEPROM. The communication unit 204 is configured by, for example, a modem. The clock unit 205 is configured by, for example, a real-time clock IC. Content database 2
06 is constituted by, for example, a hard disk or a CD-ROM. The content data may be encrypted and stored in advance, or the content data use device 1
It may be encrypted when sent to 00.

The ticket data includes usable time data of the content data. The usable time data is data indicating a time limit when the use of the content data becomes impossible regardless of the use of the content data.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, each unit of content data using apparatus 100 operates as follows. The program for the operation described below is stored in the program memory 1
02 is stored.

The content data using apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment subtracts available time data of content data at predetermined time intervals while the power is on.

When the power of the content data using device 100 is turned on, the control unit 101 reads out the current time from the clock unit 105 and substitutes it for a variable T1 (S1). Note that the value of the variable T1 is stored in a predetermined area of the data memory 103.

The control unit 101 reads the power-off time stored in a predetermined area (power-off time storage area) of the data memory 103 and substitutes it for a variable T2 (S2).
2). The power-off time storage area stores the time when the power of the content data using device 100 was last turned off, as described later.

The control unit 101 calculates the variable T from the value of the variable T1.
The value of 2 is subtracted and assigned to a variable T (S3). Thus, the time during which the power of the content data using device 100 has been turned off is stored in the variable T.

The value of the variable T is subtracted from the available time data of all the content data stored in the ticket data storage unit 108 (S4). As a result, the usable time of the content data is reduced by the time when the power of the content data using apparatus 100 is turned off.

The control unit 101 sets a timer interrupt for the clock unit 105 (S5). For example, the timer 105 is set to output an interrupt signal to the controller 101 every second, and when the controller 101 receives the interrupt signal, a setting is made so that a predetermined interrupt processing routine is executed. In the processing after S5, the interrupt processing routine is always executed every second, even during the execution of the processing. The details of the interrupt processing routine will be described later.

The control section 101 displays a function menu on the display section 106 (S6). The function menu is for allowing the user to select any one of a plurality of functions included in the content data use device 100. here,
The function menu includes “Download content data”, “Purchase (download) ticket data”,
It is assumed that "current time is corrected" and "content data is used". The user can select a desired function using the operation unit 109.

The control section 101 determines whether or not "download content data" is selected from the menu (S7). If “download content data” is selected (YES in S7), control unit 10
1 downloads desired content data from the server device 200 via the communication unit 104 (S8),
Return to S6.

If “download content data” is not selected (NO in S7), control unit 101
It is determined whether “purchase (download) of ticket data” is selected from the menu (S9). If “purchase (download) of ticket data” is selected (YES in S9), control unit 101 performs processing (download) of purchasing ticket data from server device 200 via communication unit 104 (S10). , Step S6
Return to Note that the purchase processing of the ticket data is settled by a credit card, a prepaid card, or the like. The server device 200 has a usage period determined for each content,
The available time data of the content data is stored in the ticket data in consideration of a fee per hour, an application date and time, and the like, and transmitted to the content data using apparatus 100. The details of the processing of the server device 200 will be described later.

If "purchase (download) of ticket data" is not selected (NO in S9), control unit 101 determines whether "correction of current time" is selected from the menu (S11). ). When “correction of current time” is selected (YES in S11), control unit 101 corrects the current time of clock unit 105 (S11).
12) Return to S6.

If “correction of current time” is not selected (NO in S11), control unit 101 sets “use of content data” (for example, display of book data or execution of application software) from the menu. It is determined whether the selection has been made (S13). When "use of content data" is selected (YES in S13),
The content use process shown in S21 and subsequent steps in FIG. 5 is executed. The content use processing will be described later.

If none of the menus has been selected (NO in S13), control unit 101 determines whether or not an instruction to turn off the power of content data using device 100 has been given by operation unit 109 (S14). . If the power-off instruction has not been issued (N in S14)
O), and return to S7.

If an instruction to turn off the power has been given (YES in S14), the current time is stored in the data memory 103.
(S15), and the power of the content data using apparatus 100 is turned off.

Referring to FIG. 5, the content use processing will be described. A program for realizing this processing is stored in the program memory 102. Control unit 101
Displays a list of the content names of the content data stored in the content data storage unit 107 on the display unit 106 (S21). When the content name is displayed, the available time of each content data may be displayed together.

The user selects one of the contents data displayed in the list by using the operation unit 109 (S
22). The identification code (content name, content ID, etc.) of the selected content data is stored in the data memory 103.
Is stored.

The control unit 101 reads the ticket data corresponding to the selected content data from the ticket data storage unit 108, and determines whether the available time data contained therein is greater than 0 (S23). . If the available time data is 0 or less (NO in S23),
An error message such as "Unavailable due to expiration" is displayed (S26), and the process returns to S22.

If the available time data is larger than 0 (YES in S23), the control unit 101 decrypts the encrypted content data using the corresponding ticket data, and executes the content data use process. (S24). Note that the use of the content data includes, for example, display of video data and book data, execution of application software (eg, game software), and the like. These are known technologies, and therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated here. .

After using the content data, the control unit 10
1 determines whether or not an instruction to end the use of the content data has been made by the user (S25). If the instruction has been given (YES in S25), the process proceeds to S6, and if not (NO in S25), the process returns to S23.

As described above, while the processing of S23 to S25 is looped, the content data can be used. In the meantime, the interruption processing routine is executed at predetermined time intervals, and the available time is reduced as needed. To go. If the user wishes to make a change to extend the available time, the ticket data may be repurchased from the server device 200 via the communication unit 104 here. Note that the remaining available time data may be displayed on the display unit 106 while the content data is being used.

Referring to FIG. 6, the interrupt processing routine will be described. A program for realizing the interrupt processing routine is stored in the program memory 102. This processing routine is executed every predetermined time (for example, one second) by the timer interruption of the timer 105.

The control section 101 stores the ticket data storage section 1
The available time data of all content data stored in 08 is subtracted by a predetermined time (time of timer interruption, for example, 1 second) (S31).

The control unit 101 stores the current time in the power-off time storage area of the data memory 103 (S3).
2). In this process, the user performs a predetermined power-off process (S
This is a process for preventing the time calculation result from being incorrect even when the power switch is suddenly turned off without performing steps 14 to 15). For the same purpose, immediately after the current time is corrected in S12 of FIG. 4, the corrected current time may be stored in the power-off time storage area.

The current time may be stored in the power-off time storage area before the power is turned off by detecting an OFF operation of the power switch and interrupting the control unit 101. In this case, it is advisable to take measures such as providing a large-capacity capacitor in the power supply circuit.

When the processes in S31 to S32 are completed, the process returns to the original process executed before the timer interruption was performed.

Referring to FIG. 7, each unit of server device 200 operates as follows. The program of the operation described below is stored in the program memory 202.

The control unit 201 determines whether or not there has been an application to download content data from the content data using apparatus 100 via the communication unit 204 (S4).
1). If a download request for the content data has been made (YES in S41), the control unit 201 transmits information such as a list of content names stored in the content database 206, the fee of each content data, and the expiration date to the content data. It is transmitted to the use device 100. After that, the content data requested by the user is read from the content database 206 and subjected to a predetermined encryption process.
(S42). Then, the process returns to S41.

If there is no application for downloading the content data (NO in S41), control unit 201 determines whether or not there has been an application for purchase of ticket data from content data using apparatus 100 (S43). If there is no application for purchase of ticket data (NO in S43), S
Return to 41.

If there is an application for purchase of ticket data (YES in S43), control unit 201 reads from ticket database 207 the ticket data for the content data for which the user has applied, and determines the type of expiration date. Is determined (S44). There are a plurality of types of expiration dates, an example of which is shown in FIG.

Referring to FIG. 8, type A content data represents content data for which the validity period from the point of purchase of the ticket data is determined. The type B content data represents content data in which a fee per unit time of the validity period is determined. The type C content data represents content data having an expiration date determined regardless of the purchase date of the ticket data. The types of the expiration date of the content data are not limited to the above three types, but may be added, deleted,
Changes, combinations, etc. are possible.

Referring to FIG. 7 again, if the type of ticket data for which the purchase application has been made is type A (A in S44), control unit 201 transmits the available time data read from ticket database 207 to the ticket. Embedding in the data (S45), the process proceeds to S48.

If the type of ticket data for which the purchase application is made is type B (B in S44), the available time is calculated from the fee per unit time read from the ticket database 207 and the amount paid by the user. The calculation is performed, and the result is embedded in the ticket data (S46), and the process proceeds to S48.

When the type of the ticket data for which the purchase application is made is type C (C in S44), the content data is used based on the date and time data read from the ticket database 207 and the current time output from the clock unit 205. The possible remaining time is calculated, the result is embedded in the ticket data, and the routine goes to S48.

After completion of any one of steps S45 to S47,
The communication unit 204 transmits the ticket data to the content data using device 100 (S48), ends the process, and returns to ST
Return to ART.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the expiration date of the content data can be determined without using the current time information of clock unit 105. For this reason,
By changing the current time of the clock unit 105 by the user, it is possible to prevent an act of illegally extending the use period of the content data.

In the above embodiments (S1 to S3), the time during which the power of the content data using apparatus 100 is turned off is obtained by subtracting the time immediately before the power is turned off and the time immediately after the power is turned on. The time during which the power is turned off may be measured using a counter that keeps time while the power is turned off.

[Second Embodiment] The content data rental system according to the second embodiment has the same hardware configuration as the content data rental system according to the first embodiment described with reference to FIGS. . Therefore, the detailed description will not be repeated here.

In the content data rental system according to the first embodiment, the available time of the content data is determined regardless of whether the user uses the content data. On the other hand, in the content data rental system according to the second embodiment, the time during which the user can actually use the content data is determined as the usable time of the content data.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, each unit of content data using apparatus 100 operates as follows.
The program of the operation described below is stored in the program memory 102.

The content data using apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment can be used while the user is actually using the content data (for example, while the book data is being displayed,
During the execution of the application software), the available time data of the content data is subtracted every predetermined time.

When the power of the content data using apparatus 100 is turned on, the control section 101 displays a function menu on the display section 106 (S51). The processing of S51 to S59 is the same as the processing of S6 to S14 in FIG. Therefore, the detailed description will not be repeated here. Where S
After the processing of 53, S55 and S57 is completed, S51
Move to. When it is determined in S58 that the use of the content data has been selected, the content use process shown in S61 and thereafter in FIG. 10 is executed. The content use processing will be described later.

When it is determined that an instruction to turn off the power of content data using apparatus 100 has been issued (YES in S59), the power of content data using apparatus 100 is turned off.
FF is performed.

Referring to FIG. 10, the content use process will be described. The program that implements this process is
It is stored in the program memory 102.

The processes in S61 to S62 are performed in S21 to S62 in FIG.
Since the processing is the same as that in S22, the detailed description thereof will not be repeated here.

The control unit 101 sets a timer interrupt for the clock unit 105 (S63). For example, the timer unit 105 is set to output an interrupt signal to the control unit 101 every second, and when the control unit 101 receives the interrupt signal, the timer unit 105 is set to execute a predetermined interrupt processing routine. After S63, the interrupt processing routine is always executed every one second, even during the execution of the processing. The details of the interrupt processing routine will be described later.

The processes in S64 to S67 are performed in S23 to S67 in FIG.
Since the processing is the same as that in S26, the detailed description thereof will not be repeated here.

If the user gives an instruction to end the use of the content data (YES in S66), control unit 101 cancels the timer interrupt setting set in S63 (S68), and returns to S51.

Referring to FIG. 11, the interrupt processing routine will be described. A program for realizing the interrupt processing routine is stored in the program memory 102. This processing routine is executed by the timer interrupt of the timer 105.
It is executed every predetermined time (for example, one second).

The control unit 101 stores the ticket data storage unit 1
08, the available time data for the currently used content data (displayed on the display unit 106, for example) is saved for a predetermined time (time of timer interruption, for example, 1 second). Is subtracted (S71). The information indicating what content data is currently used is stored in the data memory 10.
3 is stored.

When the process in S71 ends, the process returns to the original process that was being executed before the timer was interrupted.

Referring to FIG. 12, each unit of server device 200 operates as follows. The program of the operation described below is stored in the program memory 202.

The processes of S81 to S83 are the same as those of S41 to S43 of FIG.
Since the processing is the same as that in S43, the detailed description thereof will not be repeated here.

If a purchase application for ticket data has been made (YES in S83), the ticket data for the content data for which the user has made an application is read from the ticket database 207, and the type of the expiration date is determined (S84). ). There are a plurality of types of expiration dates, an example of which is shown in FIG.

Referring to FIG. 13, type D content data represents content data in which the available cumulative time is determined. The type E content data represents content data in which a charge per unit time of available cumulative time is determined. The types of the expiration date of the content data are not limited to the above three types, and can be added, deleted, changed, and combined as appropriate.

Referring to FIG. 12 again, if the type of ticket data for which the purchase application was made is type D (D in S84), control unit 201 transmits the available time data read from ticket database 207 to the ticket. Embedding in the data (S85), the process proceeds to S87.

If the type of ticket data for which the purchase application is made is type E (E in S84), the control unit 201 determines the fee per unit time read from the ticket database 207, the amount paid by the user, and the like. Calculate the available time from, embed the result in the ticket database, S
Move to 87.

After the processing in S85 or S86, the communication unit 204 transmits the ticket data to the content data using apparatus 100 (S87), ends this processing, and executes STAR.
Return to T.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to determine the expiration date of the content data without using the current time information of clock unit 105. For this reason,
By changing the current time of the clock unit 105 by the user, it is possible to prevent an act of illegally extending the use period of the content data.

Further, since the available time is subtracted only while the content data is being used, it is possible to avoid the problem that the content data becomes unusable even if the content data has never been used. can do.

[Third Embodiment] The content data rental system according to the third embodiment has the same hardware configuration as the content data rental system according to the first embodiment described with reference to FIGS. . Therefore, the detailed description will not be repeated here.

In the content data rental system according to the third embodiment, both types of content data of the type shown in the first embodiment and the type of content data shown in the second embodiment can be used. .

Referring to FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, each unit of content data using apparatus 100 operates as follows. The program of the operation described below is stored in the program memory 102.

When the power of the content data using apparatus 100 is turned on, S1 to S15 in FIG. 14 and S1 in FIG.
The processing of 61 to S68 is executed. S1 to S1 in FIG.
The process of 5 is the same as the process of S1 to S15 in FIG. 4, and therefore the detailed description will not be repeated here. S in FIG.
Since the processing of 61 to S68 is the same as the processing of S61 to S68 in FIG. 10, the detailed description thereof will not be repeated here.

If "use of content data" is selected from the menu in the process of S13 (S13)
13 (YES), the processes after S61 shown in FIG. 15 are executed. In the process of S68, the control unit 101 executes S63.
When the timer interrupt setting set in the step is released (S6
8), returning to the process of S6 in FIG.

For the timer interrupt set in the processing of S5, the interrupt processing routine shown in FIG. 6 is executed at predetermined time intervals (for example, every one second). In response to the timer interrupt set in the process of S63, the interrupt processing routine shown in FIG. 11 is executed every predetermined time (for example, every 1 second). 2
The two interrupt processing routines are the same as those described in the first and second embodiments. Therefore, the detailed description will not be repeated here.

In the processing of S31 in FIG. 6, the available time data is subtracted only from the contents data of types A, B and C shown in FIG. 8 for a predetermined time (time of timer interruption, for example, 1 second). .

In the process of S71 in FIG. 11, the available time data of the currently used content data among the content data of types D and E shown in FIG. Second).

Referring to FIG. 16, each unit of server device 200 operates as follows. The programs described below are stored in the program memory 202.

The processes in S91 to S93 are performed in S41 to S93 in FIG.
This is the same as the processing in S43. Therefore, the detailed description will not be repeated here.

If there is a purchase application for ticket data (YES in S93), control unit 201 reads from ticket database 207 the ticket data for the content data for which the user has applied, and determines the type of expiration date. Is determined (S94). There are a plurality of types of expiration dates, one example of which is shown in FIGS. The detailed description will not be repeated here.

If the type of the ticket data for which the purchase application was made is type A (A in S94), the process proceeds to S95.
If the type of the ticket data for which the purchase application was made is type B (B in S94), the process proceeds to S96. If the type of ticket data for which the purchase application was made is type C (S94
C), and proceeds to S97. If the type of the ticket data for which the purchase application was made is type D (D in S94), S9
Move to 8. If the type of the ticket data for which the purchase application was made is the type E (E in S94), the process proceeds to S99.

The processing of S95 to S97 is performed in S45 to S97 of FIG.
This is the same as the processing in S47. Therefore, the detailed description will not be repeated here. The processing of S98 to S99 is the same as that of FIG.
The processing is the same as the processing in S85 to S86 of No. 2. Therefore, the detailed description will not be repeated here.

After any of steps S95 to S99, communication unit 204 transmits the ticket data to content data use device 100 (S100), ends the process, and returns to ST
Return to ART.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the expiration date of the content data can be determined without using the current time information of clock unit 105. For this reason,
By changing the current time of the clock unit 105 by the user, it is possible to prevent an act of illegally extending the use period of the content data.

Further, depending on the type of ticket data, the usable time is subtracted only while the content data is being used, so that the content data becomes unusable even though the content data has not been used at all. Can be avoided.

The embodiments disclosed this time are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

[0120]

As described above, according to the present invention, since the current time information of the content data using apparatus is not used for determining the expiration date of the content data, the user may illegally falsify the current time information. The act of extending the available time can be prevented.

Further, even if the current time information of the content data using device is falsified, the expiration date can be accurately determined, so that a general-purpose personal computer can be used without using a special clock circuit that cannot be falsified. Rental use of content data is also possible on a computer or the like.

Further, since the current time information of the server device is not used for determining the expiration date of the content data, the expiration date can be determined without communication with the server device.

Further, the usable time can be determined based on the accumulated time of actually using the content data. Therefore, the expiration date comes when the content data has never been used, and the content data cannot be used. Can be avoided.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a content data rental system according to Embodiments 1 to 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a content data using device according to Embodiments 1 to 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a server device according to Embodiments 1 to 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a process in the content data using device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of content use processing by the content data use device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an interrupt process by the content data using device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a process in the server device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in a ticket database according to the first and third embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing processing in the content data using device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a content use process performed by the content data use device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of an interrupt process by the content data using device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing processing in a server device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in a ticket database according to Embodiments 2 and 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing processing in the content data using device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a content use process performed by the content data use device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing processing in the server device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

100 content data utilization device, 101 control unit,
102 program memory, 103 data memory, 1
04 communication unit, 105 clock unit, 106 display unit, 10
7 content data storage unit, 108 ticket data storage unit, 109 operation unit, 200 server device, 201
Control unit, 202 program memory, 203 data memory, 204 communication unit, 205 clock unit, 206 content database, 207 ticket database.

Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat II (reference) G06F 17/60 G06F 15/21 Z 5B089 17/30 15/40 310F 320B F-term (reference) 5B017 AA04 AA07 BA05 BA07 BB02 BB03 BB10 CA07 CA09 CA12 CA15 CA16 5B049 AA05 BB58 5B075 KK43 KK54 KK63 ND20 PQ05 5B076 FB02 FB18 5B085 AC12 BG07 5B089 GA11 GA23 JB11 KB11 KB12 KC30 LB25 A computer-readable recording medium on which a program for causing a computer to function as a content data utilizing device and a computer-readable recording medium on which a program for causing a computer to function as a server device are recorded.

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. Content data storage means for storing content data; available time storage means for storing available time data for the content data; and content data using means for using the content data. A first update unit connected to the available time storage unit and configured to update the available time data stored in the available time storage unit at predetermined time intervals; and A comparing unit connected to the comparing unit for comparing the value of the available time data with a predetermined value; and permitting or prohibiting the use of the content data by the content data using unit based on the comparison result. Data utilization device, including a permission prohibition unit for performing the operation. 2. The power supply interruption time acquisition means for acquiring a time when the power supply of the content data utilization device is off, and the power supply interruption time acquisition means and the usable time storage means, 2. The content data according to claim 1, further comprising: a second update unit configured to update the available time data stored in the available time storage unit based on a value obtained by the interruption time acquisition unit. 3. Utilization device. 3. The power-off time acquisition means includes: an end time storage means for storing a time immediately before the power of the content data using device is turned off; and a time immediately after the power of the content data using device is turned on. And an end time stored in the end time storage unit, which is connected to the end time storage unit and the insertion time acquisition unit, and an input time obtained by the insertion time acquisition unit. 3. The content data using device according to claim 2, further comprising: a calculating unit configured to calculate a time during which the power of the content data using device is turned off from the time. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: identification means connected to said content data use means for identifying content data currently used by said content data use means, wherein said first update means includes said identification means. 2. The content data use device according to claim 1, further comprising a second update unit connected to the available time storage unit and configured to update the available time data of the currently used content data at predetermined time intervals. 3. . 5. An identification unit connected to the content data using unit for identifying content data currently used by the content data using unit, and a method of updating available time data of the content data. Determining means for determining, wherein the first updating means is connected to the identifying means, the determining means, and the available time storage means, and determines whether or not the content data determined to be updated by the determining means is to be updated. 2. The content data according to claim 1, further comprising a second update unit for updating the available time data and the available time data of the content data identified as being currently used by the identification unit at predetermined time intervals. 3. Utilization device. 6. A content data storage unit for storing content data, an available time database for storing available time data or available expiration date data of the content data, and communicating with a content data using device. Communication means, a current time acquisition means for acquiring a current time, and a remaining available time connected to the current time acquisition means and the expiration date data, from the current time and the expiration date data Is connected to the content data storage means, the available time database, the remaining time calculation means and the communication means, and is stored in the available time database together with the content data. Available time data or the output of the remaining time calculation means A and a transmitting means for transmitting to said contents data utilization apparatus through the communication means, the server device. 7. A server device for distributing content data and available time data indicating the available time of the content data, and a content data using device connected to the server device via a network and using the content data, The content data utilization device, a communication unit for communicating with the server device, a content data storage unit connected to the communication unit for storing content data distributed from the server device, An available time storage unit for storing the available time data for the content data, a content data using unit for using the content data, and being connected to the available time storage unit, The use stored in the available time storage means First updating means for updating the active time data at predetermined time intervals; comparing means connected to the available time storage means for comparing the value of the available time data with a predetermined value; And a permission prohibiting means for permitting or prohibiting the use of the content data by the content data using means based on the comparison result. 8. The server device includes: a content data storage unit for storing content data; an available time database for storing available time data or available expiration date data of the content data; A communication unit for communicating with the device; a current time acquisition unit for acquiring a current time; connected to the current time acquisition unit and the expiration date data, from the current time and the expiration date data, Remaining time calculating means for calculating the remaining available time; and the content data storage means, the available time database, the remaining time calculating means and the communication means, and the available time together with the content data. Availability time data stored in the database or the remaining 8. The content data rental system according to claim 7, further comprising: transmission means for transmitting an output of the time calculation means to the content data utilization device via the communication means. 9. A computer-readable recording medium recording a program for causing a computer to function as a content data using device, wherein the content data using device comprises: content data storage means for storing content data; An available time storage unit for storing available time data for the content data; a content data using unit for using the content data; and the available time storage unit connected to the available time storage unit A first updating unit for updating the available time data stored in the storage unit every predetermined time; and a first updating unit connected to the available time storage unit for comparing the value of the available time data with a predetermined value. Comparing means, connected to the comparing means, and based on the comparison result, And a permission prohibition means for permitting or prohibiting the use of the content data by the content data utilizing unit, computer-readable recording medium. 10. A computer-readable recording medium on which a program for causing a computer to function as a server device is recorded, wherein the server device comprises: content data storage means for storing content data; An available time database for storing available time data or available expiration date data, communication means for communicating with the content data using device, current time obtaining means for obtaining a current time, and obtaining the current time Means and means for calculating the remaining available time from the current time and the available time data, the content data storage means and the available time database connected to the available time data. The remaining time calculation means and the communication means Transmitting means for transmitting the available time data stored in the available time database or the output of the remaining time calculating means together with the content data to the content data using device via the communication means; And a computer-readable recording medium.