JP2001337686A - Music distributing method and music distributing system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable to distribute an efficient advertisement in a music distributing method in which a favorite music can be easily requested and heard by using a personal computer or a simple requesting device at any time. SOLUTION: A music distributor 10' asks to a record producer 30' and a record manager whether there is a music, which is booked with the music user 20', or not, and whether there is any other new music or not. After this inquiry, when a music data which is originates from the record producer or the record manager is received, it is stored in a music database 16 and distributed to the music user who booked it. The music distributor 10' searches the database 16, picks up a music, and distributes it using internet when the music user 20' requests a music. Beside, when there is a request of an advertisement from a client 60, the music distributor 10' stores it in the advertisement database and distributes an advertisement data to the music user 20' in connection with the distribution of the music data.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a distribution technique using a network such as the Internet, and more particularly to music distribution and a transaction management technique related to music distribution.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, music records and CDs stored in response to requests from subscribers using cable broadcasting.
Music that is distributed by extracting, reproducing, and broadcasting the music, and background music (so-called "karaoke") disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. ") There is a distribution system.

[0003]

The above-mentioned cable broadcasting is performed by a cable broadcasting center and a cable receiving / locating system located in a specific facility such as a store.
It was necessary to connect the playback device with a cable, and it was impossible to listen to desired music at any time in a normal home. In addition, since only requests within the range described in the list provided by the cable broadcaster can be requested, there is a problem that a newly added song cannot be requested until a new list is distributed.

In the technology disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H11-126086, if a background music playback device is purchased, a desired music can be listened to at any time within a list provided by a distributor. As in the case of the cable broadcasting, there is a problem that a newly added song cannot be requested until a new list is distributed.

[0005] In the above-mentioned cable broadcasting and background music reproducing apparatus (so-called "karaoke"), new songs and songs with a high request frequency are listed, and old songs and minor songs that are not well known are listed. There was also a problem that requests could not be made due to restrictions.

[0006] In the music CD market, major artists'"newsongs" occupy most of the sales.
It can be said that this is due to the sales strategy of CD producers and retailers. From the music user's point of view, there are times when you want to listen to minor or hard-to-dispose music that is difficult to obtain. In many cases, it is difficult to find the desired music, and there is a demand that the user wants to listen to the desired music easily without any effort when he / she wants to listen to the music.

[0007] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art and to meet the needs of music users.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a music distribution method that can easily request and listen to desired music at any time using a personal computer (hereinafter, a personal computer) or a request device having a simple configuration. Further, another object of the present invention is to provide services such as distribution of advertisements such as new music news to music users, collection of questionnaires from users, extraction of themes based on the results, and provision to suppliers. It is to provide a music transmission method.

[0008]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a music distribution method according to a first aspect of the present invention is to provide a music distribution system comprising a music distribution ledger file, a music management ledger file, a user management ledger file, A database which is provided with a destination ledger file and a copyright management ledger file, purchases music data from a record maker, etc., classifies the purchased music data according to a predetermined classification method, and is configured to be searchable by this classification method. In addition, when a predetermined order is recorded in the management ledger file and an order made through a network is received from a music user who has viewed the distribution music guide information, the database is searched based on the order, and the music is searched. When the music data ordered by the user can be searched, the searched music data is transmitted via the network. In a comfortable user with delivery to charging for the music the user, and record distribution was a breakdown of the music data to the sales statement ledger file, the first timing,
The recorded contents of the user management ledger file are updated based on the recorded contents of the sales statement ledger file, and at a second timing, the recorded contents of the supplier ledger file are updated based on the recorded contents of the sales statement ledger file. In addition to the updating, a portion related to a license fee relating to music in the recorded contents of the copyright management ledger file is updated based on the recorded contents of the music management ledger file and the sales statement ledger file.

A second invention is characterized in that, in the music distribution method according to the first invention, music data is recorded in a database together with music identification information.

[0010] A third invention is the music distribution method according to the first invention, wherein the distribution music guide information includes music classification information and / or associative information, and the music title and identification information of the music. I do.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the music distribution method according to the first aspect, the music distributor periodically inquires of a record producer or the like via a network whether or not there is music data not stored in the database or orders. It is characterized by performing.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the music distribution method according to the first aspect, when the music data ordered by the music user is not stored in the database, the music distributor transmits the music data via the network. An order is placed for the ordered music data to a record maker or the like, and when the music data is delivered from the music record maker or the like based on the order, the music data is classified by a predetermined classification method. The information is stored in the database and distributed to ordered music users via a network.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the music distribution method according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, when the music data ordered by the music user is not stored in the database, the music order is received. Information is accumulated in the database, order information accumulated in the database is collected for a predetermined period, inquiry information is created, and an inquiry is made to a record maker or the like via a network at a predetermined timing.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the music distribution method according to the first aspect, when the payment method of the music user is a credit payment, the music distributor accumulates a billing amount for each music user every predetermined period, and At the timing of (1), a credit company recorded as a payment place in the user management ledger file is requested to pay the accumulated billing amount via a network.

According to an eighth invention, in the music distribution method according to the first invention, the music distributor accumulates a billing amount for each music user every predetermined period when the payment method of the music user is postpaid, and At the timing of (1), the financial institution recorded as the payment place in the user management ledger file is requested to pay the accumulated billing amount via the network.

According to a ninth aspect, in the music distribution method according to the first aspect, when the payment method of the music user is prepaid, the music distributor records the music data in the user management ledger file before distributing the music data. The prepaid balance is compared with the charging of the music data, and when the prepaid balance ≧ the charging amount, the distribution of the music and the deduction of the charging amount from the prepaid amount recorded in the user management ledger file are performed. Features.

According to a tenth aspect, in the music distribution method according to the first aspect, music usage fees for each supplier are collected at predetermined time intervals based on the supplier ledger file, and purchased in accordance with a predetermined calculation method. The payment amount to the supplier is calculated, and the payment amount is paid to each supplier at the financial institution recorded as a payment place in the supplier ledger file via the network.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the music distribution method according to the first aspect, a license fee for music related to each copyright manager is collected at predetermined time intervals based on a copyright management ledger file, and a network is established. Through a financial institution recorded as a place of payment in a copyright management ledger file through a copyright management ledger, a license fee relating to music is paid to each copyright manager.

According to a twelfth aspect, in the music distribution method according to the first or tenth aspect, the music distributor prepares a sales / payment statement for each supplier at a predetermined timing or at the request of a record producer. The data is transmitted to a record maker or the like via a network.

According to a thirteenth aspect, in the music distribution method according to the first or eleventh aspect, the music distributor manages each of the copyright and other managers within a predetermined period at a predetermined timing or at the request of the copyright or other manager. It is characterized in that materials are created and transmitted to an administrator such as a copyright via a network.

A music distribution system according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention includes a music distribution device and a plurality of user terminals. The music distribution device is configured to be classified according to a predetermined classification method and to search for stored music data. Music data storage means, input means for inputting music data, music data storage control means for storing music data input by the input means together with search data configured to be searchable in the music data storage means, and a user terminal Search means for searching the music data storage means based on a music distribution request made from the network via the network;
When the requested music data can be retrieved, the distribution means for distributing the retrieved music data to the music user, and when the requested music data cannot be retrieved by the retrieval means, extracted from the request. Request data storage means for storing the obtained data in a database, and inquiry means for creating music inquiry information from the request data stored in the request data storage means and inquiring through a network.

According to a fifteenth invention, in the music distribution apparatus according to the fourteenth invention, distribution specification data including identification information of music, identification information of the music user, distribution date and billing information is distributed. Distribution specification data storage means for storing music data units, music identification information, music data usage conditions, charging history, payment history to suppliers, history of payments to managers such as copyrights, supplier management Music management data storage means for storing music management data including data search information and search information for management data such as copyright, and a user including music user identification information, unique information, payment method, payment place, and charging history User management data storage means for storing management data, identification information of record maker, etc., transaction conditions, payment location, history of license fee related to music usage fee and payment amount And supplier data storage means for storing supplier management data including, for example, copyright management information including identification information, unique information, use condition information, payment place and payment history of a manager such as a copyright. Copyright management data storage means, and when music data input by the input means is stored in the music data storage means by the music data storage control means, generates music management data of the music data and generates the music management data. Music management data storage control means for storing in a storage means, and distribution specification for generating distribution specification data of music to be distributed when distribution of the music data to the music user by the distribution means and storing the data in the distribution specification data storage means Data storage control means, and at a first timing, storing the contents of the user management data stored in the user management data storage means in the delivery specification data User management data update control means for updating the storage content of the delivery specification data stored in the storage means, and purchase data for updating the storage content of the supplier data with the storage content of the delivery specification data at a second timing Update control means and a copyright management data update control means for updating the content of the stored copyright management data with the stored content of the distribution specification data;
It is characterized by having.

According to a sixteenth aspect, in the music distribution apparatus according to the fifteenth aspect, the user management data is checked at a predetermined timing.
A billing amount calculating means for calculating a billing amount by accumulating a billing amount within a predetermined period, and requesting a payment of a billing amount for each music user via a network to a credit company stored in the user management data as a payment place. Payment requesting means for performing the payment.

According to a seventeenth aspect, in the music distribution apparatus according to the fifteenth aspect, the user management data is checked at a predetermined timing, and when the payment method is postpaid, the billing amount within a predetermined period is accumulated. A billing amount calculating means for calculating a billing amount; and a settlement requesting means for making a settlement processing request for the accumulated billing amount via a network to a financial institution stored as a payment place in the user management information. And

According to an eighteenth aspect, in the music distribution apparatus according to the fifteenth aspect, when the payment method stored in the user management data is prepayment, the user management data is added before the music data is distributed. A prepaid balance check means for comparing the stored prepaid balance with the charge, and as a result of the confirmation by the prepaid balance check means, if the prepaid balance is equal to or more than the charged amount, the music is distributed and the distribution means and the user management information Billing settlement means for subtracting the billing amount from the stored prepaid amount.

According to a nineteenth aspect, in the music distribution apparatus according to the fifteenth aspect, a music usage fee is collected for each supplier at predetermined intervals based on the supplier data storage means, and a predetermined payment method is set. Payment amount calculating means for calculating a payment amount to a supplier by a predetermined financial institution via a network at a predetermined timing, the payment of each supplier amount calculated by the payment amount calculating means through a network And a payment requesting means for requesting payment.

According to a twentieth aspect, in the music distribution apparatus according to the fifteenth aspect, a license for calculating a copyright licensing fee to be paid to each copyright administrator at predetermined time intervals based on the copyright management data. A fee calculating means, and a payment requesting means for requesting a predetermined financial institution via a network to pay a payment amount for each copyright or the like calculated by the license fee calculating means at a predetermined timing. It is characterized by having.

Further, in the music transmission method according to the twenty-first invention, the music distributor includes at least a sales statement ledger file, a music management ledger file, a user management ledger file, a supplier ledger file, and a copyright management ledger file. The music data is purchased from a record maker or the like, the purchased music data is classified by a predetermined classification method, stored in a first database constructed retrievably by this classification method, and stored in each of the management ledger files. When a predetermined item is recorded and an order made via a network is received from a music user who has viewed the distribution music guide information, the database is searched based on the order, and music data ordered from the music user is retrieved. When the search is successful, the searched music data is distributed to the music user via the network and In a music distribution method for charging a music user and recording the details of the distributed music data in the sales statement ledger file, the music distributor includes an advertisement management ledger file and transmits the requested advertisement data to a second one. A predetermined item is stored in the management ledger file while being stored in a database, and advertisement data is distributed from the second database via the network based on a contract with the music user.

According to a twenty-second invention, in the music transmission method according to the twenty-first invention, the music distributor accumulates questionnaire response information from the music user in a second database and stores the information in response to a request item. The data obtained by the analysis is notified to the record maker or the like via a network.

According to a twenty-third aspect, in the music transmission method according to the twenty-first aspect, when the advertisement data is distributed in connection with the distribution of the music data, a predetermined discount rate or a discount amount is determined based on the charge of the music user. Is reduced.

[0031] A music transmission system according to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention includes a music distribution device and a plurality of user terminals, wherein the music distribution device is classified by a predetermined classification method and is capable of searching for stored music data. Configured music data storage information, first input means for inputting music data,
Music data storage control means for storing music data input by the input means in the music data storage means together with search data configured to be searchable, second input means for inputting advertisement data, and input advertisement data Advertisement data storage means for storing the music data, and a search means for searching the music data storage means based on a music distribution request made from the user terminal via a network. And a delivery unit for delivering the searched music data to the music user together with the advertisement data based on a contract with the music user when the search is successful.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect, in the music transmission system according to the twenty-fourth aspect, the advertising fee is collected for each advertising destination at predetermined time intervals based on the advertising destination data storage means, and the advertising destination is set by a predetermined payment method. Advertising fee calculating means for calculating the amount of advertising to the advertiser, and notification means for notifying, at a predetermined timing, the advertising fee for each advertising destination calculated by the advertising fee calculating means to each advertising destination via a network. It is characterized by having.

[0033]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [Music Distribution Method] FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a music distribution method according to the present invention. Reference numeral 10 '(a portion surrounded by a dashed line) denotes a music distribution company or the like according to the present invention. Indicates a person who distributes music by a distribution method (hereinafter, a music distributor). Reference numeral 20 ′ denotes a music listener (hereinafter, music user) receiving music distribution from the music distributor 10 ′.

Reference numeral 30 'denotes a record maker according to the copyright law (an analog medium such as a record or a recording tape, a CD (compact disk), an MD (mini CD), a DVD (Digital Video Disk), depending on the original music record). , A record creator who creates music masters by copying music to digital media (hereinafter referred to as music media), the owner of the music masters, the person who manages the music masters and duplicated music media, and the copyright of movie works (Hereinafter referred to collectively as "record maker, etc."). The record creator and the like mean the supplier (licenser) of the sound source in relation to the music distributor 10 '.

Reference numeral 40 'denotes a copyright management organization that collects a license fee for a music copyright or a neighboring copyright by entrusting or trusting the music copyright owner (for example, as a music copyright related organization, JASRAC: The Music Copyright Association of Japan, the copyright holder of the music, the copyright holder, or the copyright holder of the music or the copyright holder or the copyright management unit (herein, these are collectively referred to as "copyright". Etc.). When the copyright manager is the copyright management unit of the music copyright holder, a certain music may coincide with the record creator. Reference numeral 50 'indicates a credit company having a predetermined contract relationship with a music user and a music distributor, and reference numeral 80' indicates a financial institution such as a bank.

(Purchase and Storage of Music) In FIG. 1, a music distributor 10 'stores music data purchased from a record maker 30' in a music database as a sound source. The music data serving as a sound source is not limited to music data transmitted from a music producer or a record manager via a network. That is, it may be recorded (copied) on a music medium received from a supplier's music maker or record manager.

(Order and Distribution) Also, the music distributor 10 ′
When there is an order (request) for music from the music user 20 ′, the music database 16 is searched and music data is extracted, and the orderer (music user) is sent to a network such as the Internet or TV broadcasting, data broadcasting, digital broadcasting, Satellite broadcasting such as BS broadcasting and CS broadcasting and CATV can also be used as distribution means. In this case, an application for distribution is made via a communication line, and music is distributed via satellite broadcasting such as TV broadcasting, data broadcasting, digital broadcasting, BS broadcasting and CS broadcasting, and CATV. At this time, charging is performed, and a delivery specification is created and recorded in a delivery specification ledger file. If the payment method is prepaid by the music user and there is a prepaid charge balance, the delivery details are recorded to the effect that payment has been made, and the charged amount is subtracted from the prepaid balance. If the balance of the prepaid fee is less than the charged amount, the distribution is not performed and the music user is notified that the fee is insufficient. In the case of credit payment and post-payment, a usage limit is provided. If the usage limit is exceeded, distribution is not performed, and the music user is notified that the fee is insufficient.

(Collection of Request Information) The music distributor 10 ′ can receive an order for music that is not stored in the music database 16. That is, if there is no music requested by the music user even after searching the music database, the identification information of the user and the information such as music name and composer that can identify the music are stored in the database 16.
To accumulate.

(Inquiry to Record Producer, etc.) The music distributor 10 'inquires of the record producer and the record manager whether or not there is music reserved with the music user and whether or not there is new music. This inquiry is not limited to the case where the inquiry is made via a network. That is, any communication means capable of making an inquiry, such as a letter, telephone, facsimile, etc., in addition to an inquiry through the Internet or an online line may be used. When music data as a sound source is received from a record maker or a record manager in response to this inquiry, the music data is stored in a music database and distributed to a reserved music user.

(Management Material Creation) Also, the music distributor 10 ′
Is a music management ledger file (FIG. 7) that manages music in units of music, in addition to the distribution statement ledger file (FIG. 6B).
(A)), a user management ledger file (FIG. 7 (b)) for managing registered music users, a supplier ledger file (FIG. 7 (c)) for recording transaction contents for each record producer, etc.
License fee (license fee) for music distributed to each manager such as copyright of music stored in the music database 16
And a copyright management ledger file (FIG. 7 (d)) that records the payment details recorded within the same period recorded in the delivery details ledger file at regular intervals (for example, one month). Respectively, to add history and update balance.

Further, the music distributor uses the music management ledger file, the user management ledger file, and the supplier ledger file to generate a list of sales according to music during the period and a usage fee per supplier.
Create a summary table and report such as a list of payments and a list of copyright licensing fees. When there is an inquiry from a record maker or the like, a list of usage fees / payments for each supplier of the record creator or the like inquired is transmitted via a network such as the Internet, or a copyright or other administrator inquires. Then, a list of copyright licensing fees can be transmitted to the copyright manager through a network.

(Payment Processing) The music distributor calculates the billing amount within a predetermined period for each user based on the user management ledger file, and when the user's payment method is credit payment, the credit company designated by the user. (Payment place) is charged via the Internet or a dedicated line for payment of the charged amount, and after confirming the transfer of money from the credit company through the bank, the charged amount of the corresponding music user in the user ledger file is cleared. To end the payment within that period.

If the user's payment method is post-payment (debit from the account), the user is required to debit the account from the user's deposit account to the bank (payment place) designated by the user via the Internet or a dedicated line. Makes a request to the designated bank, confirms the payment from the bank, clears the charging amount, clears the charging amount of the corresponding music user in the user ledger file, and ends the payment for that period.

The music distributor calculates a music usage fee (ie, sales) and a payment (ie, license fee) for a predetermined period of time for each record creator, etc., based on the purchase ledger file. And request payment to each record creator via the network. Also, based on the copyright etc. management ledger file, calculate the license fee for the copyright within the prescribed period for each copyright etc. administrator, notify the prescribed bank,
Request each manager for payment of copyright etc. via the network.

[Music Distribution System] In the following description, a network such as the Internet using a communication line (including a wireless communication line) is taken as an example of the distribution means of the music distribution system. Broadcasting, digital broadcasting, satellite broadcasting such as BS broadcasting and CS broadcasting, CATV, and the like can also be used as distribution means. In this case, the application for distribution is made via a communication line, and the distribution of music is performed by TV broadcasting, data broadcasting, digital broadcasting, BS broadcasting, or the like.
Broadcasting, CS broadcasting, etc., satellite broadcasting, CATV, etc. may be performed.
Data broadcasting, digital broadcasting, satellite broadcasting such as BS broadcasting and CS broadcasting, and CATV may be performed.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of one embodiment of a music distribution system, showing an example using a network such as the Internet. In FIG. 2, reference numeral 10 denotes a music distribution device. In the example of FIG. 2A, the music distribution device 10 is a server computer (a host computer in the case of an online network) operated by a music distribution company also serving as a provider.
Is shown. FIG. 2B shows an example of the server computer 5.
And the music distribution device 10 ″ are separated. In this case,
The music distribution device 10 ″ exchanges data with another terminal via the server 5 as a terminal connected to the network 2.

Reference numeral 20 denotes a music user connected to the music distribution apparatus 10 via the network 2 and a music user 20 '(FIG. 1).
5 shows the user terminal (FIG. 4) operated by the user. Also,
Reference numeral 30 denotes a terminal device such as a personal computer connected to the music distribution device 10 via a network and operated by a person in charge of a record maker 30 '(FIG. 1). Reference numeral 40 denotes a terminal device such as a personal computer connected to the music distribution device 10 via the network 2 and operated by a person in charge of a copyright manager 40 '(FIG. 1).

Reference numeral 50 denotes a terminal device or a host computer of the credit company 50 '(FIG. 1) having a predetermined contract relationship with the music user and the music distributor.
0 denotes a terminal device or a host computer of a financial institution 80 '(FIG. 1) such as a bank.

[Music Distribution Apparatus] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an embodiment of the music distribution apparatus.
Is also a server computer operated by the music distributor 10 'as a provider. In FIG. 3, the music distribution device 1
0 denotes a communication control unit 11, a control unit 12, an operation unit 13, a digital music input device 14, an analog music input unit 15, a music database 16, a management database 17, and an operation unit 1.
8, a monitor 19 and a printer 20.

The communication control unit 11 exchanges data with terminals connected via the Internet 2 or an online network, assigns IP codes, and stores and distributes e-mail. When connecting to each terminal under management, a communication protocol is established with the terminal. When music distribution according to the present invention is performed, a plurality of user terminals 2
0, a terminal 30 of a record maker, a terminal 40 of a copyright manager, a terminal 50 of a credit company (or a host computer), a terminal 80 of a bank (or a host computer)
The transfer of data with the device is controlled. In addition, it may be configured to be connected to a terminal of a credit company or a bank by a dedicated line. In this case, a second communication control unit is provided, and the communication control unit 11 exchanges data with the Internet 2. The exchange of data with the terminal of the second credit company or the bank may be performed by the second communication control unit. It is desirable that the communication control unit 11 always monitors connection requests from data terminals via the Internet and enables simultaneous connection with a plurality of data terminals. It may be constituted only by one.

The control unit 12 has a temporary storage memory (RAM)
And a processor configuration including peripheral circuits such as a program storage memory (ROM, etc.). The processor controls the overall operation of the music distribution device (also serving as a server) 10 and includes a music distribution processing program group stored in a program storage memory. Based on the music data search control at the time of music data search, music data storage control at the music database at the time of music data registration, distribution control to the user terminal of music data, sales processing control at the time of distribution, update of each management data It performs processing control, report creation control to suppliers, copyright managers, etc., and settlement processing control.

The received data registering section 13, digital data registering section 14, and analog data registering section 15 store music data (recording board, recording tape,
When registering music data recorded on a CD, MD, or DVD or music data received via the Internet) in the music database 16, a key input operation for attaching a music identification code, a classification code, and an association code is performed. The reception data registration unit 13 includes a workstation having an input key, a display monitor, and a sound reproduction device (speaker).
Music information (song names, composers, lyrics, performers,
It receives the date of creation, copyright holder, usage conditions, etc.) and music data from the control unit 12 and displays music information on a display monitor. The person in charge looks at the displayed music information, classifies it, extracts the association information, and then inputs a music identification code, a classification code, an association code, and the like by key. Also, the person in charge can play back the music data on the sound output unit as needed (for example, the person in charge can listen to the reproduced music, obtain an image of the music, and add associative information).

The digital data registration unit 14 includes an input key,
Display monitor, sound reproduction device and music digital media (C
D, MD, DVD, etc.) and a workstation equipped with a reading device. When music information and music data are delivered from a record maker or the like, the person in charge looks at the music information, classifies it, and associates the associated information. After the extraction, a music identification code, a classification code, an association code, and the like are input by a key. Also,
A digital medium is set in a reading device to take in music data. Furthermore, the person in charge can reproduce the music data on the sound output unit as needed.

The analog data registration unit 15 includes an input key,
It consists of a workstation equipped with a display monitor, a sound reproducing device and a reading device for analog music media (recording board, recording tape, etc.). After looking at the information and classifying it or extracting the associative information, a music identification code, a classification code, an associative code and the like are input by a key. Further, an analog medium is set in a reading device, music data is taken in, and a process such as A / D conversion is performed to digitize the data. Furthermore, the person in charge can reproduce the music data on the sound output unit as needed. The database 16
When the music data is stored in the music data, the read music data may be compressed in the MP3 format and stored in the MP3 compression format. In the case of a configuration in which compression is not performed at the time of accumulation in the database 16, compression is performed at the time of distribution, for example,
It may be transmitted in a compressed format of MP3).

From these workstations, the initial registration of the user management data in the user management file 64, the initial registration of the supplier management data in the supplier file management file 65, or the initial registration of the copyright management file 66, etc. Data necessary for initial registration of copyright and other management data can be input.

The music database 16 is stored in a large-capacity storage memory such as a magnetic disk, and is stored in an HTML file.
The file 52 includes a file 52, a search file 53, a music data file 54, and the like (FIG. 5).

The management database 17 has a distribution specification file 62, a music management file 63, a user management file 64, a supplier management file 65, a copyright management, etc., secured in a large-capacity storage memory such as a magnetic disk. It is composed of a file 66 and the like (FIG. 6). Note that FIG.
In the above, the music database 16 and the management database 17 are allocated in different storage memories, but may be allocated in the same storage memory.

[User Terminal] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment of the user terminal. The user terminal 20 includes a communication control unit 21 for exchanging data with the Internet.
The data terminal includes a control unit 22 that controls the entire apparatus, an input key 23 (or a pointing device such as a mouse 23 ′), a monitor 24 that displays a menu, and a sound output unit 25.

The user terminal executes an Internet browsing application program such as a WWW browser on the control unit 2.
1 music storage device 10
A web page based on an HTML file received from the music distribution device 10
4 is displayed. The music user performs shopping (selection, order (delivery request), purchase decision (confirmation)) of the input music data on a web page by operating the input key 23 (or the mouse 23 ′), and distributes the distributed music data (MP3 or the like). In the case of the data which has been subjected to the compression processing, the music data after the expansion processing is D / A-converted by the sound output unit 25, the analog data is restored by performing correction such as smoothing, and the music is reproduced from the speaker. Playback output. The hard disk (H
D) or music data distributed to a memory card can be recorded (copied).

The user terminal 20 may be a personal computer having a sound output function, or may be a portable music data terminal specially designed. Further, a dedicated terminal that can be installed in a street, an underground shopping mall, a department store, a convenience store, a station, or the like may be used. In this case, the dedicated terminal is provided with a coin slot for charging and settlement, a medium for recording music, for example, a memory card writing device. Also, a wireless transmitter that enables the distributed music to be recorded on the mobile phone may be provided. Further, a sound reproducing apparatus with an Internet function having a screen and input keys (for example, stereo) may be used.

[Database] FIG. 5 shows the music database 1
6 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of FIG. 6, and as shown in FIG.
The music database 16 includes a directory file 51 including an identifier and an address of each file in the storage memory,
HTM for displaying web page on user terminal 20
HTML file 52 storing L groups, search file 5
3, a music data file 54, a request collection file 55 storing user information requesting music data not in the database 16 and the contents of the request, an HTM
An associative data file 56 which stores associative data for link (quotation) using an L file, a new information file 57 which stores new information for link using an HTML file,
And a name file 58 that stores music names and classification-specific names for linking in HTML files.

The HTML file 52 is stored in the user terminal 20.
2 stores an HTML group describing a web page to be displayed. It should be noted that it may also include an HTML describing a web page from which a part of the music data picked up can be extracted corresponding to the music title. Further, it may include an HTML describing a web page configured to display lyrics and images linked to a song title.

The search file 53 is made up of search data 530 as shown in FIG. The search data 530 includes a music identification code column 531 for storing an identification code for identifying music, a search name column 532 for each category,
An associative data code field 533 for storing an associative data code for identifying associative data for associating music, and a music registration data pointer field 534 for storing a storage address of corresponding music registration data. A viewing data section for storing viewing data obtained by extracting a part of the music data may be provided. Note that the classification-based search name column 532 is shown in FIG.
As shown in (e), it is composed of a plurality of search units. The search unit is a character string of a predetermined number of digits, such as a song name, a composer name, a lyricist name, a singer name, a performer name, a genre, a record maker name, a record production date, and the like. (In the example of FIG. 5E, the storage locations of the classification code and the name (character string) such as 01 = song name, 02 = composer name, 03 = lyricist name, 04 = singer name, etc. Is associated). Further, a plurality of association codes may be stored in the association data code column 533.

Also, the music data file 54 is shown in FIG.
The music registration data 540 shown in FIG. The music registration data 540 includes a music identification code column 541 for storing music identification codes and a music data column 54 for storing music data composed of digitized sound data.
2 is provided. The data stored in the music data column 542 is compressed data (for example, data in the MP3 compression format).

The request collection file 55 is shown in FIG.
It consists of request data 550 as shown in (d).
The request data 550 includes a user identification code column 551 for storing an identification code of a music user who has made a music request that is not stored in the database 16, a date and time column 552 for storing the request date and time, a song name, a classification name (composer) A request information column 553 is provided for storing information that can specify music, such as name, lyricist name, performer name, and year of presentation. Note that the request collection file 55 can also store request data sent by e-mail.

The associative data file 56 is an HTML file.
This file stores various types of associated data described and quoted (linked). Character data files, image data files, audio data files, and the like are provided depending on the type of the associated data. Further, an associative data code is added to each associative data.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management database. As shown in FIG. 6A, the management database 17 includes a directory file 61, a delivery specification file 62, a music management file 63, and a user management file. 6
4. Supplier management file 65, copyright management file 6, etc.
It consists of 6 mag.

The distribution specification file 62 is composed of distribution specification data 620 as shown in FIG. Also,
The distribution specification data 620 stores a music identification code column 621 for storing the identification code of the distributed music data, a music user identification column 622 for identifying the music user, a distribution date and time column 623 for storing the distribution date and time of the music data, and a charge amount. Charge amount column 624 to be paid, a payment flag column 625 storing a paid flag indicating that the charge has been deducted from the advance payment when the payment method is the advance payment, and ON when the data is transferred to each management file (= 1). Recorded flag 626
It has. Note that the payment flag column 625 is an initial value (off in the embodiment) = 0 when the payment method is credit payment or post-payment. In addition, distribution details data 6
Reference numeral 20 denotes the identification code of the music data to be distributed, the billing amount and payment condition of the music management file 63 (FIG. 7A) searched using the identification code of the music data at the time of distribution of the music data, and the identification code of the music data. Is generated from the user identification code of the user management data 640 searched by using as a key and the distribution time data generated by the time signal from the timer, and additionally stored in the distribution specification file 62.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment of another management file constituting the management database. The music management file 63 is composed of music management data 630 as shown in FIG. Music management file 6
Reference numeral 30 denotes a music identification code column 6 for storing music identification codes.
31, a unique information field 632 for storing music specific information (for example, music title, composer, lyricist, performer, record production date, etc.), and a usage condition field for storing music data use permission period and use conditions, etc. 633, a charging amount column 634 for storing the charging amount (unit price), a charging history column 635 for storing the total monthly charging amount for a predetermined month, and a payment history column 636 for storing a total monthly payment amount to suppliers for a predetermined month. A history column 637 for storing monthly usage fees such as copyright for a predetermined period;
It includes a supplier code column 638 for searching for "0" and a plurality of copyright code columns 639-1 to 639-8 for searching for copyright management data 660. In addition, the music management data 630 is generated in association with music data registered at the time of music registration data registration processing in the music data file 54 by the music distribution device 10, and the music management file 6
3 is additionally stored.

The user management file 64 is composed of user management data 640 as shown in FIG. Further, the user management file 640 includes a user identification code column 641 for storing the identification code of the music user, a unique information column 642 for recording the user's unique information (address, name, telephone number, etc.), credit payment, postpay (debit payment). ), A payment method column 643 for storing a payment method (code) such as prepayment, a payment place column 644 for storing a credit company identification code or a bank code and an account number, a charging history column 645 for storing a charging history, and a payment method of prepayment. Prepaid balance column 64 for recording the prepaid balance in the case of
6, an e-mail address column 647 for storing a user's e-mail address, and an authentication code column 648 for storing a (authentication code) password required for personal authentication when connecting to the music distribution device 10. Also, the user management data 64
0 is generated by a user registration program in response to a registration application or a written application (in this case, input by a person in charge of the music distribution device 10) from a music user via the Internet, and is additionally stored in the user management file 64. .

The supplier management file 65 is made up of supplier management data 650 as shown in FIG. Further, the supplier management file 650 stores a supplier code column 651 for storing an identification code of a record maker or the like, and specific information of the supplier (address, name (name), telephone number, representative name, etc.). A unique information field 652 for storing, a transaction condition field 653 for storing music data use conditions, a payment place field 654 for recording a payment place (bank code, account number, etc.) specified by a supplier, and a monthly music usage fee. A music usage fee history column 655 for storing the total for a predetermined month and a payment history column 656 for storing the total of the history and the monthly payment amount for a predetermined month are included. Necessary data is input to the supplier management data 650 based on a memo created at the time of contract with the supplier, is generated by a supplier management data registration program, and is additionally stored in the supplier management file 65. You.

FIG. 7D shows the copyright management file 66.
As shown in FIG. 7, the data is composed of copyright management data 660. The copyright management data 660 contains a copyright manager identification code field 6 for storing an identification code of the copyright manager.
61, a unique information column 662 for storing unique information (address, name (name), telephone number, right period, etc., author name), a use condition column 663 for a license period, a license fee, a payment method, etc., copyright management, etc. Payment field 664 that records the payment location (bank code, account number, etc.) designated by the user, and a payment field 665 that records the monthly payment of the license fee to the administrator such as copyright for a predetermined number of months. I have.

The copyright management data 660 is input with necessary data based on a memo created at the time of contract with the copyright manager, and is generated by a copyright management data registration program. 65 is additionally stored.

In some cases, the copyright manager etc. collectively manages the music copyright and neighboring rights for one piece of music. Often different. In addition, a copyright manager of a music may be different for each copyright (copying right, broadcasting right, wire transmission right, secondary usage right, etc.).
In addition, since the rights of rights of the performers, record producers, broadcasters, and cable broadcasters are different for the adjacent copyrights, the managers of the copyrights and the like are usually different. That is, the copyright management data is created for each music, but when there are a plurality of copyright managers for the music, a plurality of copyright management data is created for each copyright manager.

[Operation of User Terminal] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the user terminal 20 when ordering music. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a homepage or the like displayed on the user terminal 20.

Step S1: (Connection with Music Distribution Apparatus) In FIG. 8, the user of the data terminal incorporating a WWW browser (for example, Internet Explorer) operates the terminal to start the WWW browser and
Is input, the data terminal and the music distribution device 10 are connected via the Internet 2 and the data terminal waits for reception of an HTML file from the music distribution device 10.

Step S2: (Display of music distribution homepage) When the data terminal receives the HTML file from the music distribution device 10, the control unit 12 transmits the HTML file received in the RAM to the RAM.
The file is held, and the cover and the table of contents of the web page (home page 90: (FIG. 9A)) are displayed by the WWW browser.

Step S3: (Registration of Non-Member) If the user is a music user (a registered member of the music distribution service), the user enters the input field 9 displayed on the homepage.
When a user identification code (ID) and a password are input to 1, 92, an authentication request including them is sent to the music distribution device 10 via the Internet 2, and after the authentication process, a member notification or a non-member notification is transmitted. When the member notice is received, the classification selection web page 100 (FIG. 9)
(B)), the process transits to S4, and when "user registration" is clicked, the user registration web page 140 (FIG. 9)
(F)), the process transits to S19, clicks “Cancel”, transits to S20, and clicks “Return” to S
Transition to 2. If a non-member notice is received, a message indicating that fact is displayed together with a message indicating that fact.

Step S4: (Display of Classification Selection Web Page) In the user terminal 20, the control section 12 displays the classification selection web page 100 linked by the WWW browser and waits for the user's selection. Since the music selection method for music shopping is displayed as a click item on the category selection web page 100, the user clicks on a desired music selection method and links to an operation according to the music selection method or a web page. . The music selection method is, for example,
Selection based on song name order, selection based on composer name, selection based on lyricist name, selection based on performer (artist such as singer, player, etc.), based on record creation year , A selection based on a genre,..., Etc., as well as “selection based on a predetermined classification criterion”, “selection based on association information”, and “direct input of music titles”. The display of these music selection methods is 1
If the screen does not fit, the screen can be scrolled.

Step S5: (Selection of Song Name Selection Method) The user selects the "song name" in the display field 101 of the classification selection web page 100 by using the mouse 23 Click on '
When the first character of the song name is input in the character input field 106,
A link is made to the music selection web page 110 (FIG. 9C), and the process proceeds to S6. When the user clicks any one of the composer to the production year,... In the display field 101 with the mouse 23 ′, a name selection web page 120 (FIG. 9D) displaying the names of the clicked categories ))
To S11, "Selection by association method"
Click on column 107 to enter associative information input web page 1
30 (FIG. 9 (e)), and the process proceeds to S13. When the “directly input classification designation” column 105 is clicked, the process proceeds to S15 for directly inputting a name belonging to the classification. If “Cancel” 108 is selected, the process proceeds to S20.

Step S6: (Transmission of Request Information and Reception of Song Name) When a character is entered in the character input field 105 of the name selection web page 100 in step S5, the name (character string) and the name belong. Classification code (Classification code:
In the example of FIG. 5E, request information including music → 01, singer → 04) is transmitted to the music distribution device 10 via the Internet 2. Since the music distribution device 10 searches for a music name corresponding to the transmitted name and transmits the music identification information, the music name and the information, the music data terminal 20 receives the music name data and the like from the music distribution device. And store it in the RAM. If a mismatch notification signal meaning "no corresponding music" is received from the music distribution device, a message to that effect is displayed and the process proceeds to S2.

Step S7: (Song Title Display) The control unit 12 of the user terminal 20 displays a music selection web page 110 (FIG. 9C) by a WWW browser,
The music title and the like are displayed in the music title display column 111.

Step S8: (Song Name Selection) When the user selects a song name displayed on the music selection web page 110 and clicks on the song name with the mouse 23 ', the process proceeds to S9. When the user clicks on the song title input field 115 of the song title display web page 110, S1 is entered.
Transition to 7. Clicking “Return” 117 shifts to S2, and clicking “Cancel” 116 causes S20.
Transitions to.

Step S9: (Reception of Music Data) In step S8, the user inputs the desired music
When the user clicks on 3 ′, request information including a music identification code corresponding to the music title is transmitted to the music distribution device 10 via the Internet 2. Since the music distribution device 10 searches for and distributes music corresponding to the transmitted music identification code, the music data terminal 20 waits for the distribution of music data from the music distribution device 10 and the music transmitted from the music distribution device 10. Internet (compressed data) 2
Decompress it to receive digitized music data.

Step S10: (Music Output) Next, the music data (compressed data) subjected to the reception processing is decompressed (expanded) and subjected to correction processing such as D / A conversion and smoothing processing to restore analog music data. Then, the music is reproduced and output from the speaker (sound output unit) 25, and when the user's listening or downloading is completed, the process returns to S3. This allows the music user to listen to and download the desired music that has been distributed.

Step S11: (Display of Classified Name) The control unit 12 of the user terminal 20 uses the WWW browser to select the category linked by the selection in step S5 (for example,
A name selection web page 120 for the singer) (a singer name selection screen when the category is a singer: FIG. 9D) is displayed, and the user waits for selection. The example in FIG. 9D is a selection screen when music is selected based on the singer's name. The singer's name and the like are displayed for each of the Japanese syllabary, and are arranged so as to be selectable by clicking with the mouse 23 '. Although the display content differs for each music selection method selected in the above step, the display format of the element selection web page may be substantially the same as that in FIG. 9D (for example,
When the composer is used as the reference in step S5, the composer name is displayed).

Step S12: (Selection of Classification) When the user clicks a character (for example, the name of a singer) displayed in the display field 121 with the mouse 23 ', a music selection web page 110 displaying the searched music name is displayed. Linking to (FIG. 9C), the process transits to S6. If the desired name is not found, clicking on the “direct input” field 125 displayed on the screen causes a transition to S11,
Clicking "Return" 127 returns to S5. Also,
When "Cancel" 126 is clicked, the flow shifts to S20.

Step S13: (Display of associative information selection page) In the user terminal 20, the control unit 12 uses the WWW browser to link the associative image selection page 13 linked in step S5.
Display 0 and wait for user selection. The associative image selection page 130 includes words that image music, poetry and phrases, passages of lyrics, names of places such as mountains and valleys, names of people, names of events, descriptions of scenes,
Displays colors and the like. Note that an HTML file corresponding to the associative image selection page 130 may be configured to display an image of a scene, a person, an event, or the like that images music, and further configured to output a voice message or an image sound. May be.

Step S14: (Selection of associative information) The spot displayed on the associative image selection page 130 (when this is clicked with the mouse 23 ', the HTML
(The display of the message, the image, and the voice message described in step S13, which are associated with each other, are output.)
When any one of 31, 32,... Is clicked with the mouse 23 ', a sentence, image, or sound (in this case, blinking the spot, moving a singing pattern in the spot, and a sound is output from the speaker). Output from
Are sequentially displayed (output). When the user clicks a desired sentence, image, or voice (in the case of voice, clicks in the spot), the associative data code associated with the associative data is extracted by HTML, and a request including the associative data code is obtained. The information is transmitted to the music distribution device 10 via the Internet 2. The control unit 22 transfers the control to S7 in parallel with the transmission of the request information.

Step S15: (Direct Input of Classification Names (Composer Name, Lyricist Name, etc.)) When the classification of the input classification designation field 106 is designated in the above step S5, the input field 105 shows a classification other than music. Name (composer name, lyricist name, name of performer such as singer, record production year
・ ・ Etc.) key input becomes possible. The user can key-in a category-specific name other than music using any of hiragana, katakana, kanji, and the alphabet. When the user confirms the input (e.g., the ENTER key in the embodiment, a "#" key or a "*" key is usually used for confirmation or termination in a terminal having a small number of keys such as a portable data terminal. Key).

Step S16: (Receive Song Name) When the user finishes inputting the desired classification name in step S15, the request information including the input character string and the classification code is transmitted to the music distribution device 10 via the Internet 2. Sent to. Since the music distribution device 10 searches for and transmits the corresponding song name using the transmitted classification code and character string as a key, the music data terminal 20
When the music name data transmitted from the music distribution device 10 is received via the Internet 2, the process proceeds to S5. In addition, the music distribution device 10
When a mismatch signal is received from, a message indicating that "the music corresponding to the input classification-specific name is not stored" is displayed, and the control returns to S5.

Step S17: (Direct Input of Music Name) Clicking on the music name input field 115 of the music name selection web page 110 in step S8 allows key input of the music name in the music name input field 115. Also, in this case, the user can key in the song name using any one of hiragana, katakana, kanji, and alphabet. When the user presses the confirmation key, the process proceeds to S18.

Step S18: (Reception of Music) When the user finishes inputting the desired music title in step S18, request information including the music title along with the classification code of the music title is transmitted to the music distribution device 10 via the Internet 2. Sent to. Since the music distribution device 10 searches and distributes the music corresponding to the transmitted music name, the music data terminal 20 waits for the distribution of the music data from the music distribution device 10 and the music data transmitted from the music distribution device 10. When (compressed data) is received via the Internet 2, it is decompressed to restore digitized music data.
When a mismatch signal is received from the music distribution device 10,
"No music corresponding to the input song name is stored"
Is displayed and the control returns to S3.

Step S19: (User Registration Processing) In the user terminal 20, the control section 12 displays the user registration web page 140 linked in the above step S3 by a WWW browser to enable user registration. The user who wishes to register is required to input fixed information such as the user's address, name, telephone number and the like, e-mail address, password, payment method specification information, bank or credit company specification information, and use start date in the designated input field 141. When the designated information or the like is input, the registration information is sent to the music distribution device 10 via the Internet 2. In the display field 145, a user identification number transmitted from the music distribution device 10 and a payee bank name and an account number when the payment method is prepayment are displayed. Note that this user registration can also be performed by e-mail, mail, or by facsimile application.

Step S20: (Connection End) The control unit 12 releases (disconnects) the connection with the Internet 2 under the control of the communication control unit 21, and ends the music shopping.

When the music name displayed on the music selection web page 110 is clicked with the mouse 23 'in step S8, the process transits to S9. In step S9, the music identification code is transmitted to the music distribution device 10 and the music is transmitted. Although the music is played back and output, moving the cursor (arrow moved by operating the mouse 23 ') on the music name displayed on the music selection web page 110 in the above step S8 corresponds to the music name. A music selection web page 110 (that is, a group of HTML data corresponding to this page) is configured to reproduce and output a passage of music (a picked-up passage). When a song title is clicked with the mouse 23 ′, the process transits to S 9, The music identification code may be transmitted to the music distribution device 10 in step S9, and the distributed music may be reproduced and output. With such a configuration, the user can select music by moving the cursor and clicking on the mouse 23 'if there is any favorite music (without looking at the music name).

In the description of the flowchart shown in FIG. 8, the user terminal 20 transmits / receives data to / from the Internet 2 and displays an HTML file using a WWW browser. However, the browsing application program used on the Internet 2 is not limited to the WWW browser. . Also,
The description language of the web page is not limited to HTML.

In addition to the web page shown in FIG. 9, a web page for collecting user information is provided, and a home page 90 shown in FIG. 9A is provided with a button for designating a web page for collecting user information. And step S
When this button is selected in step 2, a link to a web page for collecting user information is made. When the user answers a questionnaire or the like, the process proceeds to step S6, and request information including user information such as an answer may be transmitted. Thus, the music distribution device 10 can acquire the user information.

[Operation of Music Distribution Apparatus] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of the operation of the music distribution apparatus at the time of music distribution. Step T1: (Connection with User Terminal and Transmission of HTML File) In FIG. 10, when there is a connection request from a data terminal via the Internet 2, the communication control unit 11 tries to establish a protocol with the data terminal, and Is established, the control unit 12 is notified. The control unit 12 reads the HTML file 52 stored in the music database 16 and transmits the read HTML file 52 to the data terminal via the communication control unit 11 and the Internet 2.

Step T2: (Determination of Member / Non-member) The control unit 12 stores the user management file 60 using the user identification code and the password contained in the authentication request signal transmitted from the user terminal via the Internet 2 as keys. The search is performed, and if there is user management data having the same password stored in the user identification code and authentication code column 648, a member notification is sent. If the user identification code and the password do not match, a non-member notification is sent to the Internet 2. Via the data terminal. If the user identification code and the password match, the user identification code is held (temporarily stored) in the RAM.

Step T3: (Reception of Request) The communication control unit 11 checks whether or not the control data received from the Internet 2 is request information. If the control data is request information, it passes it to the control unit 12.

Step T4: (Determination of Request) When receiving the request information from the communication control unit 11, the control unit 12 determines whether the code included in the request information is a classification code or an associative code used as a search key. Check if it is a music identification code, and if it is a classification code, T
5; in the case of an associative code, the process proceeds to T6; in the case of a music identification code, the process proceeds to T10.

Step T5: (Search by Classification Name) The control unit 12 checks the classification code and searches the search file 53 using the received name as a key. At this time, among the search names (character strings) by classification of the search data 530, the search name (character string) stored at the position corresponding to the received classification code is sequentially compared with the received name, and the matching rate R >
In the case of δ (delta is a threshold), 1 is added to the counter to retrieve the search data, and the process transits to T8. Also, the matching rate R ≦
In the case of δ, this step is repeated until the search data stored in the search file 530 ends, and when the search ends, the process transits to T7. Here, the matching rate R can be determined by, for example, the number of consecutive digits from the left end of the character string compared from the left side of the character string divided by the search name.

Step T6: (Search by Associative Code) If the code included in the request information received at T3 is an associative code, the control unit 12 searches the search file 53 using the associative code as a key. At this time, all of the associative codes stored in the associative data code column 533 of the search data 530 are checked, and if there is one or more codes that match the received associative code, 1 is added to the counter, and then T8 is set. Transition. If there is no match, this step is repeated until the search data stored in the search file 530 ends.

Step T7: (Notice of mismatch when there is no music title) When the search in step T5 or T6 is completed, the control unit 12 checks the value of the counter.
The value of the counter is set to 0 (zero) and control is returned to T3. When the value of the counter is 0, a mismatch notification is sent to the communication control unit 11.
And to the user terminal 20 via the Internet 2.

Step T8: (Search for Song Name) The control unit 12 extracts the music management data 630 based on the address stored in the pointer column 534 of the search registration data 530 extracted in step T4 or T5, and The music identification code and the music title are extracted from the information column 632.

Step T9: (Send Song Name) The control unit 12 transfers the music identification code and the song name data acquired in the above-described step T8 to the transmission buffer of the communication control unit 12. The communication control unit 11 collects a predetermined number of music identification codes and music name data in the transmission buffer, packetizes them, transmits the packet to the user terminal that has made the request via the Internet 2, and transitions to T4.

Step T10: (Retrieval of Music Data Using Music Identification Code) When the code included in the request information received in step T3 is a music identification code, the control unit 12 uses the music identification code as a key to store the music data. Search the file 54. Then, when there is music registration data with the matching music identification code, the music registration data 540 with the matching music identification code is obtained, and the process transits to T11. If there is no music registration data with a matching music identification code, the process transits to T16.

Step T11: (Confirmation of Prepaid Balance) The control unit 12 searches the user management file 64 using the user identification code held in the RAM in step T2 and finds the user management data 64 whose user identification code matches.
When the content of the payment method column 643 of 0 is prepaid, the prepaid balance stored in the prepaid balance column 646 is compared with the current billing amount. If the prepaid balance ≧ the billing, the process transits to T12. If the balance in advance is less than the charge, the process proceeds to T17. If the payment method is credit or postpay (bank debit), the process proceeds to T13.

Step T12: (Updating Prepayment Balance) The control section 12 sets a balance obtained by subtracting the charge from the prepaid balance as a new prepaid balance (prepayment balance = prepaid balance−charging), and manages the supplier. Prepaid balance column 6 of data
46 is updated and the update flag is turned on (= 1).

Step T13: (Music Data Distribution) The control unit 12 transfers the contents (compressed music data) of the music data column 541 of the music registration data 540 obtained in step T10 to the transmission buffer of the communication control unit 11, and performs communication. The control unit 11 packetizes the compressed music data and transmits it via the Internet 2 to the user terminal 20 that has requested distribution.

Step T14: (Generation and Storage of Distribution Details) In parallel with the music data distribution by the communication control unit 11 in step T13, the control unit 12 sets the music identification code of the music registration data 540 acquired in step T10, Distribution date and time (year, month, day, and time) generated from the user identification code and the time data held in the RAM in step T2
From the billing amount obtained by searching the music management file 63 using the music identification code, the delivery details data 620 (FIG. 6)
(B)) is generated and stored (additionally stored) in the delivery specification file 62, and the process transits to T3. At this time, the update flag is checked, and if the update flag is on, the payment flag column 6
25 is stored with a value meaning paid ("1" in the embodiment), otherwise a different code ("0" in the embodiment) is stored.

Step T15: (Transmission of mismatch notification) The control unit 12 transmits the mismatch notification to the user terminal 20 via the communication control unit 11 and the Internet 2.

Step T16: (Collection of Request Information) The control unit 12 determines the user identification code stored in the RAM in step T2, the song name, the classification name, and the date and time in the request information obtained in step T3. The request data 550 is generated in the request collection file 55
(Additional storage), and transits to T3.

Step T in the flowchart of FIG.
As shown in FIG. 16, by collecting a part of the request information of the music not registered in the music data file among the music requested by the user, the supplier as shown in FIG. It is possible to order and distribute minor or out-of-print music or new music that is not usually available on the market, or send an e-mail to the requesting music user to notify them of the arrival.

If the request information from the user includes a request including user information such as a response to a questionnaire in step T4, the process proceeds to step T4 to determine whether the received request includes user information. It is also possible to provide a step of determining whether or not user information is included in the database 16 when the information is included. This allows the music distribution device to obtain user information. In addition, step T16
By adding the request information stored in (1) and (2), it is possible to collect information such as various new and old music distribution requests and desired items to the record maker and the like. When the request information includes the user information, the request information may be stored in the request information file 57.

[Offer & Order] FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing one embodiment of the operation of the music distribution apparatus at the time of inquiring / ordering the presence / absence of a sound source to a record maker or the like, and FIG. Example, FIG.
(B) shows an operation example at the time of ordering.

(Inquiry) Step U1: (Determination of existence of request data) In FIG. 11A, the control unit 12 reads out the request data 550 from the request collection file 55 of the database 16 and stores it in a temporary storage memory such as a RAM. When all of the request data 550 are stored, the process transits to U2.

Step U2: (Sending mail to supplier, etc.) The control unit 12 sorts the request data stored in the temporary storage memory by classification name, and
It is edited into an inquiry message asking for the presence or absence of a sound source, an e-mail including a classification name or a song name, and other information, and is transmitted by e-mail or fax via the Internet.

(Order) Step U3: (Confirmation of Response to Inquiry, etc.) In FIG. 11B, the person in charge of ordering at the music distribution apparatus 10 receives a request from the supplier in response to the sound source inquiry in FIG. 11A. By examining the response by e-mail, telephone memo, facsimile, letter, etc., if there is a sound source, it is determined whether or not to place an order. When placing an order, an order instruction (or an order key input) is issued from a terminal such as a workstation connected to the operation unit 18 or the music distribution device 10.

Step U4: (Order) When an order is issued (or an order key is input) in step U3, the control unit 12 controls the communication control unit 11 to send the sound source to the supplier via the Internet 2. Order by e-mail or fax.

[Registration of purchased music information and sound source] FIG. 1
2 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the music distribution device at the time of registration of a sound source (music data).

Step V1: (Music Information Input) In response to the order shown in FIG. 11B, when the sound source is delivered from the supplier, the purchaser on the music distribution apparatus 10 side operates the operation unit 18 or the music distribution apparatus 10 Data registration units 13 to 15
, Information about the purchased music (music information) is input. New arrival information includes, for example, classification names, genres, music names, composers, lyricists, singers, performers such as players, production years, association codes, distribution start dates, usage conditions, charging unit prices, supplier codes, It consists of a copyright management code. The input music information is stored in the input buffer.

Step V2: (Generation of music management data
(Registration) When the input of the music information is completed in step V1, the control unit 12 stores the music management data 630 having the configuration shown in FIG. 7A based on the new music identification code and the music information in the input buffer. Generated and stored in the management database 17 (FIG. 6)
(A) is registered in the music management file 63. At this time, the charging history column 635 and the payment history columns 636, 637
Is cleared to zero.

Step V3: (Update of New Arrival Information File for HTML File) Also, the control unit 12 sets the
New arrival information data such as genre, music title, composer, lyricist, singer, performer name, production year, associative code, distribution start date and the like are stored in the new arrival information file 57 of the database 16 (FIG. 5A). Remember. At this time, the file is updated by overwriting in the order of the date of the data stored in the new arrival information file 57.

Step V4: (Registration by Classification Search Name for HTML File) Also, the control unit 12 searches for a music title or a classification search name (composer name, lyricist name, performer name such as singer or player, genre, etc.). )
Is registered in the name file 58 of the database 16.

Step V5: (Music Data Input) In parallel with the above steps V3 and V4, the user stores the sound source delivered from the supplier into the reception data registration unit 13, the digital data registration unit 14, and the analog data registration unit 15. Set to any one and enter. Thereby, the music data (digital data) is taken into the input buffer (see the description of FIG. 3).

Step V6: (Generation / Registration of Music Registration Data) When the music data has been fetched from the sound source in step V5, the control unit 12 performs a compression process (eg, MP
3 compression format), and attaches the same music identification code as the music identification code of the music management data 630 generated in step V2 to generate music registration data 540 as shown in FIG. Register in the music data file 54.

Step V7: (Generation / Registration of Search Data) Also, the control unit 12 sets the same music identification code as the music identification code of the music management data generated in step V2, a classification-specific search name, an associative data code, and Step V
The search data is generated from the storage address on the database 16 of the music registration data registered in
Is registered in the search file 53.

In FIG. 12, the input of the music data is set to step V5, but is not limited to this (may be before step V5). Although not shown, after step V7 in FIG. 12 (a new step is provided), a mail notifying the arrival of the music to the music user (registered user) who has requested the music is sent. You may.

[Update of Management File] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing one embodiment of the operation of the music distribution apparatus when the management file is updated periodically.

Step W1: (Reading of Delivery Detail Data) The controller 12 is generated by the above-described flowchart (step T14) of FIG.
(A) The distribution specification data whose recording flag 626 is not ON is read out from the distribution specification data 620 stored in the distribution specification file 62 of (a).

Step W2: (Fetching of Intra-Period Data) Further, the control unit 12 checks the distribution date and time of the distribution specification data and determines the distribution date and time for a predetermined period (for example, from the first day to the end of the month in the case of monthly update, or the previous month 21). From the date to the 20th of this month)
It is determined whether or not the data is distribution details data within the period, and only data within the period is extracted.

Step W3: (Update of charging history of music management data) The control unit 12 searches the music management file 63 using the music identification code of the distribution specification data 620 as a key, and the charging history column 635 of the hit music management data 630. , The history of the music management data 630 is updated by adding the contents of the charging amount column 624 of the distribution details data 620 to the contents of the current month column.

Step W4: (Update of charging history of user management data) The control unit 12 searches the user management file 64 by using the user identification code of the distribution specification data 620 as a key, and checks the charging history of the hit user management data 640. 64
5, the contents of the billing amount column 624 of the delivery specification data 620 are added to the contents of the current month column to update the history of the user management data 640.

Step W5: (Update History of Supplier Management Data) Also, the control unit 12 searches the music management file 63 using the music identification code of the distribution specification data 620 as a key, and searches the music management data 630 for hits. Destination identification code column 6
38 (supplier code) is obtained, and the supplier management file 65 is searched using the supplier code as a key.
Music usage fee history 6 of the hit supplier management data 650
55, the music usage fee calculated based on the rate obtained from the usage condition column 653 is added to the content of the billing amount column 624 of the delivery specification data 620 to the content of the current month column of the delivery specification data 620, and the content of the supplier management data 650 is added. Update history.

Step W6: (Update history of management data of copyright etc.) The control unit 12 searches the music management file 63 using the music identification code of the distribution specification data 620 as a key, and searches the music management data 630 of the hit music management data 630. The contents (rights manager ID code) of the rights manager ID code columns 639-1 to 639-8 are acquired, and the copyright management file 66 is searched using the copyright manager ID as a key. ,
The delivery detail data 620 is included in the contents of the month column in the license fee payment amount history 665 of the hit copyright management data 660.
The license fee calculated based on the rate obtained from the content of the usage condition column 663 is added to the content of the charging amount column 624 of the above, and the history of the copyright management data 660 is updated. The copyright etc. manager identification code columns 639-1 to 639-8 store the copyright etc. manager identification code only in one place, and blank or invalid data is stored thereafter. At this time, the recorded flag column 626 of the distribution specification data 620 is rewritten to ON (= 1).

Step W7: (End Determination) The control section 12 repeats the above steps W1 to W6 until the distribution specification data ends.

[Payment] FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing one embodiment of the operation of the music distribution apparatus at the time of payment processing (eg, billing). FIG. 14 (a) shows a case of credit payment, and FIG. This is an operation in the case of post-payment (bank account withdrawal).
Steps T11 and T12 in the flowchart of FIG. It should be noted that the settlement processing (eg, billing) is performed at a predetermined timing after the update processing of the management file shown in FIG. ).

(Case of Credit Payment) Step X1: (Extraction of Credit Payment Data) In FIG.
Of the user management data 640 of the payment method column 6
The contents of 43 are checked, the user management data is fetched only at the time of credit payment, and the flow goes to X2. Otherwise, this step is repeated.

Step X2: (Extraction of Stored Information) The control unit 12 sends the user identification information, address, name, telephone number, credit number, and other user-specific information of the acquired user management data 640, and payment location information (credit company name). And the company code) and the billing amount for the current month, and other necessary information for billing the credit company.

Step X3: (Preparation of billing data) The control unit 12 arranges the information extracted in the above step X2 in a predetermined order, prepares the payment request data for each credit company and each user, and stores it in the temporary memory. .

Step X4: (Transmission of billing data) The control unit 12 repeats the operations of the above-mentioned steps X1 to X3 until the user management data 640 ends, and upon completion of the reading, credits the billing data stored in the memory at step X3 to the credit. Edit each company and send it to each credit company via the Internet (if connected via dedicated line, send via dedicated line).

(In the case of post-payment) Step X1 ': (extraction of post-payment data) In FIG.
Of the user management data 640 of the payment method column 6
The contents of 43 are checked, the user management data 640 is fetched only at the time of postpayment (debit withdrawal), and the process transits to X2 '. Otherwise, this step is repeated.

Step X 2 ′: (Extraction of Stored Information) The control unit 12 transmits the user identification information, the address name, the telephone number, etc. of the acquired user management data 640 and the payment place information (bank name and account number). ) And necessary information on the debit request to the banking company, such as the amount charged for the current month.

Step X3 ': (Preparation of Debit Request Data) The control unit 12 arranges the information extracted in the above step X2' in a predetermined order, prepares account debit request data for each bank / user, and temporarily stores the data. Store in memory.

Step X4 ': (transmission of withdrawal request data) The control section 12 repeats the operations of the above-mentioned steps X1' to X3 'until the user management data 640 ends. The stored debit request data is edited for each bank and transmitted to each bank company via the Internet (or transmitted via a dedicated line when connected via a dedicated line).

FIG. 15 shows the music distribution apparatus 10 when transmitting a use (use) specification within a period to a supplier and a manager such as a copyright.
6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the embodiment.

(Transmitting Use (Usage) Statement During Period to Supplier) Step Y1: (Read Music Management File) In FIG. 15A, the control unit 12 is stored in the music management file 63. The billing amount for the current month is extracted from the supplier identification code, the music identification code, and the billing history.

Step Y2: (Extraction of Supplier Information) Further, the supplier management file 65 is searched using the supplier identification code extracted in step Y1 as a key, and the usage condition is determined from the found supplier management data 650. The rate and the supplier name stored in the column 653 and the unique information column 652 are acquired.

Step Y3: (Creation of Usage Statement Data) The control unit 12 calculates a usage fee from the billing amount extracted in the step Y1 and the fee rate extracted in the step Y2, and determines a payee identification code, a payee name, Edit music identification code, song name, usage fee, etc. in a predetermined format,
The usage statement data for each music is created and stored in the temporary memory.

Step Y4: (Transmission of Usage Statement) The control unit 12 repeats the operations of the above-mentioned steps Y1 to Y3 until the music management data 630 ends, and when reading is completed, the control unit 12 stores the usage statement data stored in the temporary memory in the above-described step Y3. To each payee via the Internet.

(Transmission of Usage Details Data to Copyright Manager During Period) Step Y1 ′: (Reading of Music Management File) In FIG. 15B, the control unit 12 is stored in the music management file 63. The billing amount for the current month is extracted from the copyright identification manager identification code, music identification code, and billing history.

Step Y2 ': (Extraction of copyright etc. manager information) The copyright etc. manager file 66 is searched by using the copyright etc. manager identification code as a key, and the usage conditions are found from the hit copyright etc. management data 660. The fee rate stored in the field 663 and the name of the administrator such as copyright stored in the unique information field 662 are acquired.

Step Y3 ′: (Preparation of Usage Statement Data) The control unit 12 calculates a license fee from the billing amount extracted in the above step Y1 ′ and the fee rate extracted in the above step Y2 ′. Identification code, copyright, etc.
The music identification code, song name, license fee, and the like are edited in a predetermined format to create usage details data for each manager such as copyright and for each music, and stored in the temporary memory.

Step Y4 ': (Transmission of usage details) The control section 12 repeats the operations of the above-described steps Y1' to Y3 'until the music management data 630 ends, and when reading is completed, the control section 12 stores the data in the temporary memory in step Y3'. The usage statement data is transmitted via the Internet for each administrator such as copyright.

It should be noted that step S in FIG. 8 is configured to be linkable to a web page for collecting user information.
If the request includes user information in the step T4, the user information is collected (stored in a database). If the request is included in the request, such user information is collected and used as mail news or specified by a record creator. A new song may be purchased by sending it to the destination and mailed to the user who sent the information.

FIG. 16 shows the music distribution method shown in FIG.
FIG. 2 is a schematic explanatory view of a method that also enables the distribution of advertisements and / or questionnaires. The same reference numerals as those in FIG. 1 denote the same or similar parts, and reference numeral 60 denotes a client (company) of an advertisement and / or questionnaire survey. Also includes the record maker 30 ',
Advertisements also include new music news of unreleased records issued from them.

The music distributor 10 'stores advertisement data and the like requested by the client 60 in the advertisement (and / or request for questionnaire survey) database 60'. Music user 2
If distribution of advertisements, questionnaire surveys, and the like has been accepted by a contract with 0 ', advertisements such as new music news and various questionnaires are also distributed in connection with the distribution of music. When this distribution is performed, a predetermined discount rate or discount is reduced from the above-described charging for music distribution, and a distribution statement is created and recorded in the distribution statement register file. Further, the music distributor 10 'collects answer information to the questionnaire given to the music user 20', and
Store at 0 '.

Next, the music distributor 10 'is provided with an advertisement management ledger file 60' in addition to the ledger files, and manages each advertisement and / or questionnaire survey requested by the ledger file. In the user management ledger file, whether or not distribution of advertisements or the like is permitted is registered. In this case, the type of the advertisement to be distributed may be specified, and for example, registration to permit distribution of only the new score news may be registered. Further, the music distributor may distribute new music data corresponding to the genre (classical, popular, etc.) of the music data ordered in the past by the music user. In addition, in the settlement processing of the music distribution billing, if there is the above-mentioned advertisement distribution permission contract, a predetermined discount rate or discount amount is reduced from the billing amount according to the amount of advertisement distribution.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram of one embodiment of a music distribution system that also enables advertisement distribution (and / or questionnaire survey). The same reference numerals as those in FIG. 2 denote the same or similar devices, and 60 denotes a music distribution device. 10 shows a terminal device such as a personal computer connected to the advertisement server 10 via a network and operated by a person in charge of the advertisement requesting company 60.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment of a music distribution apparatus which can also perform advertisement distribution (and / or questionnaire survey). The same reference numerals as those in FIG. Is a management database for advertisements and the like.

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the advertisement management database. The advertisement management database 60 'stores the directory file 6 as shown in FIG.
1 ', an advertisement delivery specification file 62', an advertisement management file 63 ', a user management file 64', and an advertisement request destination management file 65 '.

The advertisement delivery specification file 62 'is shown in FIG.
As shown in (b), it consists of advertisement distribution statement data 620 '. The advertisement delivery specification data 620 ′ includes an advertisement identification code column 621 ′ storing an identification code of the distributed advertisement data, and a music user identification column 62 for identifying a music user.
2 ′, distribution date and time column 62 for storing the distribution date and time of the advertisement data
3 ', a reduction fee 624' from the charged amount of music data, and a recorded flag 626 'which is turned on (= 1) when transferred to each management file. The advertisement request destination management file 65 'is composed of advertisement request destination management data 650' as shown in FIG. This data includes an advertisement request destination identification code 651 ′, unique information 652 ′, and an advertisement fee 65.
3 'and the like.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the music distribution device during advertisement distribution. In FIG. 20, after the music distribution in response to the music user's request ends, it is determined whether or not there is a license agreement for the advertisement distribution with the music user (ST
1) If the permission is granted, the contents of the contract (the type of advertisement permitted to be distributed, for example, only new news) are searched (ST).
2) Deliver an advertisement corresponding to the content (ST3).

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the music distribution device 10 when transmitting the advertisement execution statement to the advertisement request destination.

Step Y1: (Reading of Advertisement Management File) In FIG. 21, the control unit 12 extracts the advertisement request destination identification code, the advertisement identification code, and the advertisement amount for the current month stored in the advertisement management file 63 '.

Step Y2: (Extraction of advertisement request destination information) The advertisement request destination management file 65 'is searched using the advertisement request destination identification code extracted in step Y1 as a key, and the advertisement fee field 653 is obtained from the advertisement request destination management data 650'. 'And the advertisement request destination name stored in the unique information field 652'.

Step Y3: (Creation of Advertisement Execution Details Data) The control unit 12 calculates an advertisement fee from the advertisement amount extracted in the above step Y1 and the advertisement fee rate extracted in the above step Y2, The request destination name, the advertisement identification code, the advertisement name, the advertisement fee, and the like are edited in a predetermined format, and the execution specification data for each advertisement request destination and each advertisement is created, and is stored in the temporary memory.

Step Y4: (Transmission of Implementation Statement) The control unit 12 repeats the operations of the above-described steps Y1 to Y3 until the advertisement management data 630 ends, and when the reading is completed, the control unit 12 stores the execution statement data stored in the temporary memory in step Y3. Is transmitted to each advertisement request destination via the Internet.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the music distribution device at the time of questionnaire distribution. In FIG. 22, it is determined whether there is a license agreement for distribution of a questionnaire with a music user (S1). If the license is granted, the contents of the questionnaire are searched (S2), and a questionnaire corresponding to the content is distributed (S3). Upon receiving the music user's questionnaire response (S4), it analyzes it according to the request item (S5), and transmits the analysis result to the requester (S6). As mentioned above, although one Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to the said Example, It cannot be overemphasized that various deformation | transformation implementation is possible.

[0172]

As described above, according to the music distribution methods of the first to thirteenth aspects and the music distribution system of the fifteenth to twentieth aspects, not only music distribution but also sales, purchase, music, and music work The management ledger file such as the right can be updated in conjunction with the update.

Further, according to the music distribution method of the third invention, the user can select music based on the associative information, so that the user can search for music without remembering the title, composer, lyricist, singer, etc. Can be.

Further, according to the music distribution method of the fourth aspect of the present invention, a record maker or the like is regularly inquired about music that is not stored in the database, so that information on suppliers can be grasped accurately.

Further, according to the music distribution method of the fifth invention, if the music data ordered by the user is not stored in the database, an order is made to a record producing company or the like, so that the response is quick and the mediation is possible. Business can be realized.

Further, according to the music distribution method of the sixth invention, when music data ordered by the user is not stored in the database, the orders are stored in the database, compiled and collected by the record production company or the like. Since the inquiries are made, even the record producers can search for those musics with plenty of time, so there is a high possibility that not only new music but also minor or out of print music will be available.

Further, according to the music distribution method of the seventh invention, for a user who pays for credit, the balance can be updated by adding a charge to the credit balance in the user management ledger file at the time of distribution, so that an error in business processing occurs. do not do.

Further, according to the music distribution method of the eighth invention, for postpaid users, the balance can be updated by adding a charge to the postpaid balance of the user management ledger file at the time of distribution, so that there is no mistake in business processing. .

Further, the music distribution method of the ninth invention and the first method
According to the music distribution system of the ninth aspect, the balance can be updated for the prepaid user at the time of distribution by subtracting the charge from the prepaid balance in the user management ledger file, so that the payment can be performed simultaneously with the distribution.

Further, according to the music distribution systems of the fourteenth invention to the fifteenth invention, order information of the user is stored in the database for music that has not been registered in the database and could not be distributed, and is stored in the database. You can also make inquiries, so you can also make inquiries to record makers, artists and owners who do not deal with them, and also collect and distribute minor music, old and forgotten music, out-of-print music, etc. .

Further, according to the twenty-first to twenty-fifth aspects, not only music distribution but also effective advertisement and questionnaire survey can be performed by using the music distribution system.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a music distribution method of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an overall explanatory diagram of a music distribution system using a network.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an embodiment of a music distribution device.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an embodiment of a user terminal.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of a music database.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of a management database.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a management file constituting a management database according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation example of a user terminal when ordering music.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a homepage or the like displayed on a user terminal.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of the operation of the music distribution device at the time of music distribution.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of the operation of the music distribution device when inquiring music data to a record maker or the like;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the music distribution device when registering music data.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of the operation of the music distribution device when the management file is updated periodically.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the music distribution device during a payment process.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of the operation of the music distribution apparatus when transmitting a use (usage) statement within a period to a supplier and a manager such as a copyright.

FIG. 16 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a music and advertisement distribution method of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is an overall explanatory diagram of a music and advertisement distribution system using a network.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an embodiment of a music advertisement distribution device.

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of advertisement management data.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the music distribution device during advertisement distribution.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the music distribution device when transmitting an advertisement execution statement to an advertisement request destination.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the music distribution device during questionnaire distribution.

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 1 music distribution system 10 music distribution device 20 music user terminal 30, 40 data terminal 10 'music distributor 20' music user 30 'record creator 40' copyright manager 50 'credit company 80' financial institution (bank) 16 Music Database (Database) 54 Music Registration Data (Music Data) 62 Delivery Detail File (Sales Detail Ledger File) 63 Music Management File (Music Management Ledger File) 64 User Management File (User Management Ledger File) 65 Supplier Management File (Supplier management ledger file) 66 Copyright management file (copyright management ledger file) 100, 110, 120, 130 Web page, homepage (distribution music guide information)

Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat II (Reference) G06F 17/60 406 G06F 17/60 406 408 408 G11B 27/10 G11B 27/10 A // G06F 17/30 110 G06F 17 / 30 110F 170 170E F-term (reference) 5B049 BB11 BB49 CC05 CC36 DD05 EE05 FF03 FF04 FF06 FF09 GG04 GG07 5B055 BB20 CB10 CC05 CC10 EE02 EE21 EE27 FA01 FB03 KK07 KK18 PA02 KK07P03 KK07P03 KK07 5D077 AA22 AA38 BA14 BB05 CA10 CA11 EA33 EA34 HC16 HC17

Claims (25)

[Claims] The music distributor includes at least a sales statement ledger file, a music management ledger file, a user management ledger file, a supplier ledger file,
And a step of purchasing music data from a record maker, etc., and classifying the purchased music data according to a predetermined classification method, and accumulating it in a database constructed so as to be searchable by this classification method. Together with the step of recording predetermined items in each management ledger file, and, when receiving an order made via a network from a music user who has viewed the distribution music guide information, searching the database based on the order; When the music data ordered by the music user can be searched, the searched music data is distributed to the music user via a network, and the music user is charged. Recording in a sales statement ledger file; and at a first timing, the user management ledger file Updating the record contents of the supplier ledger file based on the record contents of the sales statement ledger file, and updating the record contents of the supplier ledger file based on the record contents of the sales statement ledger file at a second timing. Updating the portion of the recorded contents of the copyright etc. management ledger file related to the license fee relating to music based on the recorded contents of the music management ledger file and the sales statement ledger file. Music distribution method. 2. The music distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the music data is recorded in the database together with music identification information. 3. The music distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the distribution music guide information includes music classification information and / or association information, and music title and identification information of the music. 4. The music distributor according to claim 1, wherein the music distributor periodically inquires of the record maker or the like via a network whether or not there is music data not stored in the database. Music distribution method. 5. When the music data ordered by the music user is not stored in the database, the music distributor receives the order from a record maker or the like of the music via the network. When music data is ordered from a music record maker or the like based on the order, the music data is classified according to the predetermined classification method and stored in the database. 2. The music distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the music distribution is performed to the ordered music user via a network. 6. When the music data ordered by the music user is not stored in the database, the music distributor stores the order information in the database, and stores the order information stored in the database. 2. The music distribution method according to claim 1, wherein inquiry information in which the information is collected for a predetermined period is created, and the record maker or the like is inquired via a network at a predetermined timing. 7. When the payment method of the music user is a credit payment, the music distributor accumulates a billing amount for each music user every predetermined period, and stores the payment location in the user management ledger file at a predetermined timing. 2. The music distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the credit company recorded as (1) is charged for payment of the accumulated charge via a network. 8. When the payment method of the music user is postpaid, the music distributor accumulates a billing amount for each music user at predetermined time intervals, and stores the payment location in the user management ledger file at a predetermined timing. 2. The music distribution method according to claim 1, wherein a request is made to a financial institution recorded as a payment of the accumulated billing amount via a network. 9. The music distributor, if the music user's payment method is prepaid, before the distribution of the music data, the prepaid balance recorded in the user management ledger file and the charging of the music data. , Prepaid balance ≧
2. The music distribution method according to claim 1, wherein in the case of a billing amount, the music is distributed and a billing amount is deducted from a prepaid amount recorded in the user management ledger file. 10. A music usage fee for each supplier is collected for each predetermined period based on the supplier ledger file, a payment amount to the supplier is calculated by a predetermined calculation method, and via a network, 2. The music distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the payment amount is paid to each supplier at a financial institution recorded as a payment place in the supplier ledger file. 11. A copyright licensing fee for each copyright manager is collected at predetermined intervals based on the copyright management ledger file, and the copyright licensing management file is set as a payment place via a network. 2. The music distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the recorded financial institution pays a license fee relating to music to each copyright manager. 12. The music distributor prepares a sales / payment statement for each supplier at a predetermined timing or at the request of the record producer or the like, and transmits the statement to the record producer or the like via a network. The music distribution method according to claim 1 or 10, wherein: 13. The music distributor creates management material for each copyright manager within a predetermined period at a predetermined timing or at the request of the copyright manager, and sends the management material to the copyright manager via a network. The music distribution method according to claim 1, wherein the music distribution method is performed. 14. A music data storage device including a music distribution device and a plurality of user terminals, wherein the music distribution device is classified by a predetermined classification method and configured to search for stored music data. An input unit for inputting the music data; a music data storage control unit for storing the music data input by the input unit together with search data configured to be searchable in the music data storage unit; Search means for searching the music data storage means based on a music distribution request; and, when the requested music data can be searched for by the search means, distribution of the searched music data to the music user. Means, and the requested music data cannot be searched by the search means. Request data storage means for storing data extracted from the request in the database; and inquiry means for creating music inquiry information from the request data stored in the request data storage means and inquiring through a network. A music distribution system characterized by the following. 15. Delivery specification data storage means for storing delivery specification data including music identification information, music user identification information, delivery date and billing information in units of delivered music data, music identification information, music Data usage conditions, billing history, history of payments to suppliers, history of payments to managers such as copyright,
Music management data storage means for storing music management data including search information of supplier management data and search information of management data such as copyright; identification information, unique information, payment method, payment place, and billing of music users; A user management data storage unit for storing user management data including a history; a record including a record maker's identification information, unique information, transaction conditions, a payment place, a history of a license fee and a history of a payment amount related to a music usage fee; Supplier data storage means for storing supplier management data, and identification information, unique information, usage condition information,
Copyright management data storage means for storing copyright management data including a history of the payment place and the payment amount; and music data input by the input means are stored in the music data storage means by the music data storage control means. Music management data storage control means for generating music management data of the music data and storing the music management data in the music management data storage means, when the distribution means distributes the music data to the music user, Distribution specification data storage control means for generating distribution specification data of music to be distributed and storing the distribution specification data storage means in the distribution specification data storage means; and storing user management data stored in the user management data storage means at a first timing. User management for updating the contents with the storage contents of the distribution specification data stored in the distribution specification data storage means Data update control means, at a second timing, supplier data update control means for updating the storage content of the supplier data with the storage content of the delivery specification data, and the content of stored copyright and other management data. 15. The music distribution system according to claim 14, further comprising: a copyright management data update control unit configured to update the content with the storage content of the distribution specification data. 16. A charge amount calculating means for checking the user management data at a predetermined timing and, when the payment method is a credit payment, accumulating a charge amount within a predetermined period to calculate a charge amount; 16. A music distribution system according to claim 15, further comprising: a billing means for billing a credit amount stored for each music user to a credit company stored as a payment place via a network. 17. The user management data is checked at a predetermined timing, and when the payment method is postpaid, a billing amount calculating means for accumulating a billing amount within a predetermined period to calculate a billing amount; 16. The music distribution system according to claim 15, further comprising: settlement request means for requesting a financial institution stored as a payment place to request settlement processing of the accumulated billing amount via a network. 18. When the payment method stored in the user management data is prepayment, a prepayment balance check for comparing a prepayment balance stored in the user management data with a charge before distributing music data. Means, and if the prepaid balance confirmation means confirms that the prepaid balance is equal to or greater than the billing amount, the music is distributed and the billing amount is deducted from the distribution means and the prepaid amount stored in the user management information. The music distribution system according to claim 15, further comprising a settlement unit. 19. A payment calculation means for collecting music usage fees for each supplier at predetermined intervals based on the supplier data storage means and calculating a payment amount to the supplier according to a predetermined payment method. And payment request means for requesting a predetermined financial institution via a network for payment of the payment amount for each supplier calculated by the payment amount calculation means at a predetermined timing. The music distribution system according to claim 15, wherein 20. A license fee calculating means for calculating a copyright license fee to be paid to each copyright manager for each predetermined period based on the copyright management data, and at a predetermined timing, the license fee calculating means. 16. The music distribution system according to claim 15, further comprising payment request means for requesting a predetermined financial institution via a network to pay a payment amount for each copyright or the like calculated by the above. 21. A music distributor includes at least a sales statement ledger file, a music management ledger file, a user management ledger file, a supplier ledger file,
And a copyright management ledger file, purchase music data from a record maker or the like, classify the purchased music data according to a predetermined classification method, and store it in a first database constructed to be searchable by this classification method. And when a predetermined item is recorded in each of the management ledger files, and when an order made via a network is received from a music user who has viewed the distribution music guide information, the database is searched based on the order, and the music user is searched. When the music data ordered from is found, the searched music data is distributed to the music user via the network and charged to the music user, and the detailed description of the distributed music data is stored in the sales statement ledger. A music distribution method for recording in a file, wherein the music distributor includes an advertisement management ledger file. Accumulates the requested advertisement data in the second database and records predetermined items in the respective management ledger files, and transmits the advertisement data from the second database via the network based on the contract with the music user. A music distribution method characterized by distribution. 22. The music distributor accumulates questionnaire response information from the music user in a second database, and analyzes the information in accordance with a requested item to produce the record production data via a network. 22. The music distribution method according to claim 21, wherein a notice is given to a person or the like. 23. The music distribution according to claim 21, wherein when the advertisement data is distributed in connection with the distribution of the music data, a predetermined discount rate or a discount amount is reduced from the charge of the music user. Method. 24. A music distribution device comprising: a music distribution device; and a plurality of user terminals, wherein the music distribution device is classified by a predetermined classification method and configured to search stored music data; First input means for inputting music data, music data storage control means for storing music data input by the input means together with search data configured to be searchable in the music data storage means, and second input means for inputting advertisement data. Input means, advertisement data storage means for storing input advertisement data, search means for searching the music data storage means based on a music distribution request made from the user terminal via a network, When the music data requested can be searched for, the searched music data is stored in the music user. And a distribution means for distributing the music data to the music user based on the contract with the music user. 25. An advertisement charge calculating means for collecting advertisement charges for each advertisement destination at predetermined intervals based on the advertisement destination data storage means and calculating an advertisement amount to the advertisement destination by a predetermined payment method, 25. The music distribution system according to claim 24, further comprising: a notification unit for notifying the advertisement destination of each advertisement destination calculated by the advertisement fee calculation unit to each advertisement destination via the network at the timing of: system.