JP2002189958A - Rental system for book contents, providing method for rental service of book contents, and browsing device for book contents - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent book contents from illegally being used so as to protect the copyright of the contents in rental business by electronic commerce. SOLUTION: When a user sets a flash memory in a storefront terminal 109 at a convenience store, etc., and selects desired electronic book contents, ciphered electronic book contents and software (reader) for reading the electronic contents are downloaded. The user sets the flash memory where the electronic contents, etc., are downloaded in a reading terminal 105 and then can browse the electronic book contents. The electronic contents that the user rents are so previously constituted that they are erased after a certain period elapses.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a book content rental system, a book content rental service providing method, and a book content browsing apparatus.
More specifically, the present invention relates to a book content rental system in which a user can use book content via a terminal connected to a communication network, a book content rental service providing method, a book content browsing apparatus, and a computer program product. .

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, a system for downloading so-called electronic book browsing software (hereinafter referred to as book content) from a server and browsing the same using a computer has been known. For example, book content created on a bookstore server that provides book information is commercialized.

[0003] In the conventional selling of book contents, book contents are "sold out" in the form of download in response to a request from a terminal (PC) connected to a server that provides the book contents via the Internet as a communication network. The general form of sales was If the software for browsing book contents sold in such a form, that is, the reader is damaged, the seller needs to make a guarantee.

[0004] Even if the reader is not damaged, if user needs to modify or add functions to software or reader for creating or generating book contents, user support should be provided. Need to be kept. In particular, selling book content is different from selling on paper, and its features require new support.

[0005]

However, since the book contents sold in the conventional electronic commerce exist on the customer's PC semi-permanently, if the book contents are damaged or the book contents are lost. When the specification is changed, there is a problem that the seller must provide semi-permanent support for the book content provided by the seller.

[0006] Further, in the conventional electronic commerce, when book contents are distributed / distributed on a network, there is a problem that a cipher may be copied, falsified, or illegally used by a third party.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to prevent the illegal use of book contents in electronic commerce in order to protect the copyright. It is an object of the present invention to provide a book content rental system, a book content rental service providing method, and a book content browsing apparatus.

[0008]

According to the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, an invention according to claim 1 is a browsing terminal provided from a store terminal installed in a store or a public place. A book content rental system for renting book content that can be browsed by a user, wherein the in-store terminal stores the book content in a first storage unit storing a plurality of the book content and a second storage unit of the browsing terminal. A copy unit for copying information of the rental period of the content and the book content, and an issuing unit for issuing a password for browsing the book content, wherein the browsing terminal stores the content stored in the second storage unit. A first receiving unit that receives a request for browsing book content, a second receiving unit that receives the input of the password, and a first receiving unit. A determination unit that determines whether or not to display the book content on a display device based on the rental period in response to the request received by the second reception unit and the password received by the second reception unit and the determination unit. A browsing means for displaying the contents of the book content on the display device based on a result of the determination.

The invention described in claim 2 is the first invention.
In the book content rental system described in,
The first reception unit displays information on the book content copied to the second storage unit on the display device, and receives selection of the displayed information.

[0010] Further, the invention according to claim 3 is based on claim 1.
Or in the book content rental system according to 2, wherein the copying means encrypts the book content and copies it to the second storage means, and the issuing means comprises:
The browsing terminal issues a password for decrypting the book content, the browsing terminal includes decryption means for decrypting the book content based on the password, and the browsing means transmits the book content decrypted by the decryption means to the book content. The information is displayed on a display device.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the book contents rental system according to the first, second or third aspect, the time at which the password is issued by the issuing means, and the second storage means. A first calculation unit for calculating the rental period from the rental period stored in the storage unit, wherein the determination unit compares the rental period calculated by the first calculation unit with a current time, It is characterized in that it is determined whether or not the book content is to be displayed on the display device.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the book content rental system according to the first, second, or third aspect, the time at which display of the book content is started by the browsing means and the rental period are determined. A second calculating unit for calculating the rental expiration date, wherein the determining unit compares the rental expiration date calculated by the second calculating unit with a current time and displays the book content on the display device. It is characterized by determining whether or not to perform.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the book content rental system according to the first, second or third aspect, the determining means determines the total time of browsing the book content and the rental period. In comparison, it is determined whether or not the book content is to be displayed on the display device.

The invention described in claim 7 is the first invention.
7. In the book content rental system according to any one of items 1 to 6, the result of the determination by the determination unit is:
When the book content is not displayed, a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed on the display device.

[0015] The invention according to claim 8 is a content server that provides a service for renting one or more book contents for browsing to a user, and is used by the user and provided from the content server. A book content rental system in which a browsing terminal capable of browsing the book content is connected to a communication network, wherein the content server includes: a first storage unit storing a plurality of the book contents; Providing a key file incorporating the book content stored in the first storage means and a rental period of the book content to the browsing terminal in response to a request from the browsing terminal. Recording the book content and the key file provided from the content server. A second storage unit, a first reception unit for receiving a request for browsing the book content stored in the second storage unit, and a key file in response to the request received by the first reception unit. Determining means for determining whether or not to display the book content on a display device based on the described rental period; and displaying the content of the book content on the display device based on a result of the determination by the determining means. And a browsing means for displaying the information.

The invention according to claim 9 is the invention according to claim 8.
In the book content rental system described in,
The first reception unit displays information related to the book content stored in the second storage unit on the display device, and receives selection of the displayed information.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the book content rental system according to the eighth or ninth aspect, the rental system includes a plurality of different settlement methods connected to the content server. A plurality of possible payment servers are provided, and the providing means receives selection of the payment method.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the book content rental system according to the eighth, ninth or tenth aspect, the book content provided from the content server is encrypted. In the key file, a decryption key for decrypting the book content is incorporated, and the browsing terminal includes decryption means for decrypting the book content based on the decryption key incorporated in the key file, The browsing means displays the book content decrypted by the decrypting means on the display device.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the book content rental system according to any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects, the time when the key file is created by the providing means and the rental period Calculating means for calculating the rental expiration date from, wherein the determining means compares the rental expiration time calculated by the calculating means with a current time to determine whether to display the book content on the display device. Is determined.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the book content rental system according to any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects, the time at which the display of the content of the book content is started by the browsing means is started. And calculating means for calculating the rental expiration from the rental period, wherein the determining means compares the rental expiration calculated by the calculating means with a current time, and displays the book content on the display device. It is characterized by determining whether or not to display.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the book content rental system according to any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects, the determining means determines the total time of browsing the book content and the rental time. A period is compared with a period to determine whether or not the book content is to be displayed on the display device.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the book content rental system according to any one of the eighth to fourteenth aspects, the book content is displayed on the display device as a result of the determination by the determination means. If not displayed, a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed on the display device.

The invention according to claim 16 is a method for providing a book content rental service for renting book content that can be browsed by a browsing terminal provided from a store terminal installed in a store or a public place. So,
A plurality of the book contents are stored in the first storage means of the store terminal, and the book contents and the rental of the book contents are stored in the second storage means of the browsing terminal by the copy means of the store terminal. A copying step of copying information of a period, an issuing step of issuing a password for browsing the book content, and the browsing terminal transmits a request for browsing the book content stored in the second storage unit. A first receiving step of receiving, a second receiving step of receiving the input of the password by the browsing terminal, and, if the request for browsing is received in the first receiving step, based on the rental period, A determining step of determining whether to display the book content on a display device; and a second receiving step. Accepted the password, and based on the result of determination in said determination step, characterized in that the contents of the book content and a browsing step of displaying on the display device.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in the method for providing a book content rental service according to the sixteenth aspect, the first receiving step includes the step of copying the book copied to the second storage means. It is characterized in that information on contents is displayed on the display device, and selection of the displayed information is accepted.

[0025] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in the method of providing a book content rental service according to the sixteenth or seventeenth aspect, in the copy step, the book content is encrypted by encrypting the second content. And the issuance step issues a password for decrypting the book content, and the browsing step displays the decrypted book content based on the password on the display device.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in the method for providing a book content rental service according to the sixteenth, seventeenth, or eighteenth aspect, the time at which the password was issued in the issuing step and the time of the copying are provided. A first calculating step of calculating the rental expiration from the copied rental period, wherein the determining step compares the rental expiration calculated in the first calculating step with a current time, It is characterized in that it is determined whether or not book content is to be displayed on the display device.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, in the method for providing a book content rental service according to the sixteenth, seventeenth, or eighteenth aspect, the time at which browsing of the book content is started and the rental period are determined. A second calculation step of calculating the rental expiration date, wherein the determination step compares the rental expiration date calculated in the second calculation step with a current time;
It is characterized in that it is determined whether or not the book content is to be displayed on the display device.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, in the method of providing a book content rental service according to the sixteenth, seventeenth, or eighteenth aspect, the determining step comprises: A period is compared with a period to determine whether or not the book content is to be displayed on the display device.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, in the method for providing a book content rental service according to any one of the sixteenth to twenty-first aspects, as a result of the determination in the determining step, the book content is When not displayed on the display device, a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed on the display device.

[0030] The invention according to claim 23 is a content server that provides a service for renting one or more book contents for browsing to a user, and is used by the user and provided from the content server. A method for providing a book content rental service in a rental system in which a terminal capable of browsing the book content is connected to a communication network, wherein a plurality of the book contents are stored in a first storage unit of the content server. Stores the book content stored in the first storage means and a key file incorporating a rental period of the book content in response to a request from the terminal from the content server. Providing step to provide to the book, and the book provided in the providing step A second storage step of storing the content and the key file in a second storage unit of the terminal; a first reception step of receiving a request to browse the book content stored in the second storage step; A determination step of determining whether to display the book content on a display device of the terminal based on the rental period described in the key file in response to the request received in the first reception step; A browsing step of displaying the contents of the book content on the display device based on a result of the determination in the determining step.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in the method for providing a book content rental service according to the twenty-third aspect, the first receiving step includes the step of storing the book stored in the second storing step. A display request for browsing the book content is received by displaying information related to the content on the display device and receiving a selection of the displayed information.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, in the method for providing a book content rental service according to the twenty-third aspect or the twenty-fourth aspect, the system further comprises a plurality of different settlement systems connected to the content server. The method further comprises a plurality of payment servers capable of performing the method, wherein the providing step receives a selection of the payment method.

According to a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, in the method of providing a book content rental service according to the twenty-third, twenty-fourth, or twenty-fifth aspect, the providing step encrypts and provides the book content to the terminal. In the key file, a decryption key for decrypting the book content is incorporated in the terminal, and using the decryption means of the terminal, based on the decryption key incorporated in the key file, A decrypting step of decrypting the book content stored in the second storing step,
The browsing step displays the book content decrypted in the decrypting step on the display device.

According to a twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, in the method of providing a book content rental service according to any one of the twenty-third to twenty-third aspects, the time at which the key file was created in the browsing step; A first calculation step of calculating the rental expiration from the rental period, wherein the determination step compares the rental expiration calculated in the first calculation step with a current time to determine the book content. It is characterized in that it is determined whether or not to display on the display device.

According to a twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, in the method of providing a book content rental service according to any one of the twenty-third to twenty-third aspects, the display of the content of the book content is started in the browsing step. And a second calculation step of calculating the rental expiration from the rental time and the rental period, wherein the determination step compares the rental expiration calculated in the second calculation step with a current time, It is characterized in that it is determined whether or not the book content is to be displayed on the display device.

According to a twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention, in the method for providing a book content rental service according to any one of the twenty-third to twenty-third aspects, the determining step comprises: And comparing the rental period with the rental period to determine whether to display the book content on the display device.

According to a thirtieth aspect of the present invention, in the method for providing a book content rental service according to any one of the twenty-third to twenty-third aspects, as a result of the determination in the determination step, the book content is When not displayed on the display device, a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed on the display device.

According to a thirty-first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for browsing book contents, comprising: storage means for storing information of one or more book contents for browsing and a rental period of the book contents; First receiving means for receiving a request for browsing the book content stored in the means,
A second reception unit that receives an input of a password for browsing the book content issued by a store terminal, and the book content based on the rental period in response to a request received by the first reception unit. Determining means for determining whether or not to display the content on the display device, the password received by the second receiving means, and the content of the book content based on the determination result by the determining means. And a browsing means for displaying the information.

An invention according to claim 32 is an apparatus for browsing book contents, wherein the book is provided from a contents server which provides a service of renting one or more book contents for browsing to a user. Storage means for storing content and a key file incorporating a rental period of the book content; first reception means for receiving a request for browsing the book content stored in the storage means; and first reception means. According to the request received,
Determining means for determining whether or not to display the book content on a display device based on the rental period described in the key file; and content of the book content based on a result of the determination by the determining means. And a browsing means for displaying on the display device.

The invention according to claim 33 is a computer program product, wherein the storage step stores one or more book contents for browsing and information on a rental period of the book contents, and the storage A first reception step of receiving a request for browsing the book content stored in a step, a second reception step of receiving an input of a password for browsing the book content, issued by the in-store terminal, and A determination step of determining whether to display the book content on a display device based on the rental period in response to the request received in the first reception step, and the password received in the second reception step; Based on the result of the determination in the determination step, Executing a program that includes a browsing step of displaying the contents on the display device.

The invention according to claim 34 is a computer program product, wherein the book is provided from a content server that provides a service of renting one or more book contents for browsing to a user. A storage step of storing content and a key file incorporating a rental period of the book content, a first reception step of receiving a request for browsing the book content stored in the storage step, and a reception step of receiving the request in the first step In response to the request, based on the rental period described in the key file, a determination step of determining whether to display the book content on a display device, based on the determination result in the determination step, Browsing step of displaying the contents of the book content on the display device Executing a program with.

By adopting such a configuration, the book content is not in the form of "sold out" to be owned by the user, but is in the form of "rental" which is a temporary borrowing, that is, the book content is basically converted into words for a certain period of time. By renting the book content by making the device unusable. The user does not own the book content but rents it temporarily.

Therefore, the response to the damage of the book contents and the specification change of the format of the book contents can be basically limited only to the rental period, the burden of user support is small, and the book contents can be relatively sold out. Efficient business can be provided.

Also, from the viewpoint of copyright protection, since the system cannot be used after a certain period of time, unauthorized use by a third party is difficult.

Further, by making it possible to set the start time of the rental period to the time at which the book content is read, instead of the time at which the book content is obtained, the property that the book content does not run out of stock can be utilized and the rental can be performed collectively. It becomes possible to do. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the sales cost and improve the convenience for the user.

[0046]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a book content rental system of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a book content rental system according to the present embodiment. The book content rental system according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of computer systems connected to the Internet 103 as a communication network, ie, Content server 101 that provides book content through network 103
And a terminal used by the customer, based on the guidance provided by the content server 101,
A reading terminal 105 for acquiring and browsing book contents from the server 101 and a store terminal 109 which is an information terminal installed in a store or bookstore, a public place, or the like.

The content server 101 is connected to a settlement server 107 that performs settlement processing by a dedicated line. The settlement server 107 performs settlement processing based on settlement information on rental charges transmitted from the content server 101. Note that the connection between the content server 101 and the settlement server 107 can use various other connection methods such as a public telephone line and the Internet.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of a computer system used in the present system.
The computer system includes a central processing unit (CPU) 2
01 and a RAM 205, and a CPU 201 and a RAM
205, an auxiliary storage device 209 via a bus 207;
It is connected to the ROM 203. Auxiliary storage device 209
Is, for example, a hard disk, CD-ROM, DVD-
It is composed of a ROM, a flash memory card and the like.

The ROM 203 is constituted by, for example, a flash memory capable of erasing / writing in block units. The storage medium such as the auxiliary storage device 209 and the ROM 203 is
1 and the like, and a computer program for implementing the present invention is recorded. These storage media function as storage means of the present invention.

The communication interface 211 is coupled to the bus 207, for example, the Internet / WWW (Worl).
d Wide Web) and an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card or a modem, etc., that enable data communication connection.

The display device 215 is an LCD (Liquid Cryst).
al Display) and CRT (Cathode-Ray Tube). The input device 213 is used for inputting characters and numbers, and assumes a keyboard, a mouse, a trackball, and the like, for example. These are connected via a bus 207.

Each computer system is connected to the bus 20
7 and other peripheral devices can be further connected thereto. For example, the store terminal 109 has a writing device or the like (not shown) having a function of writing a program in a flash memory.
Is connected.

The functions of the present invention are achieved when the CPU 201 executes a computer program stored in a storage medium (computer program product) such as the ROM 203 or the auxiliary storage device 209. The computer program includes a communication program for relaying between networks, software (reader) as a browsing means for viewing the contents of book contents, and displaying a text or image by analyzing a markup language document. Browser and the like are included.

The computer program stored in the content server 101 includes a CGI script, and the service provided by the content server 101 is realized by a CGI (Common Gateway Interface). When transmitting an HTML document from a server connected to the Internet to a client, HTTP (Hypertext Transport Protocol) is used as a protocol.
l) is adopted. In addition, FTP or the like is used for downloading electronic book contents and readers.

With such a configuration, for example, a connection request from the reading terminal 105 to the content server 101
C via the Internet 103, the communication interface 211 of the content server 101, and the bus 207.
It is sent to PU201. C of the content server 101
The PU 201 transmits a login screen to the reading terminal 105 in response to the request, and the customer inputs necessary information, and transmits the information to the CPU 201 in the same manner as the connection request. In this way,
The content server 101 can use the display screen on the reading terminal 105 to provide information to the reading terminal 105 or prompt the user to input information.

The CPU of the content server 101
The user 201 sets a button on a display screen of the reading terminal 105, receives an operation of pressing the button by the user, and provides information to the reading terminal 105, thereby transmitting and receiving information in an interactive manner.

(First Embodiment) The operation of the book content rental system of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, book content of an electronic book is taken as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this.
For example, it can be applied to various electronic contents such as paintings.

In this embodiment, a method (hereinafter, referred to as a password method) using a store terminal 109 which is an information terminal installed in a store or bookstore, a public place, or the like will be described.

FIG. 3 shows a password rental system.
It is a flowchart which shows the process of a service. The user sets the flash memory in a predetermined writing device connected to the point-of-sale terminal 109, and copies a reader for viewing the contents of the book content to the flash memory functioning as a storage unit of the present invention (step S30).
1). Next, the user copies the book contents to the flash memory in the same manner as the processing in step S301, issues a password to the user, and notifies the user (step S303).

The book content copied here is encrypted using the above-mentioned password as a decryption key, and the user can decrypt the book content using this password as described later. As a method of notifying the password, a method of displaying the password on a display device of the store terminal 109, a method of outputting a sheet on which the password is recorded on a printing device connected to the store terminal 109, or the like can be used. In connection with this copy processing, the rental service provider, who is the owner of the in-store terminal 109, receives a reward from the user.

The above-described copy processing and password issuance are executed by a program which is stored in the storage means of the in-store terminal 109 and which issues a copy instruction to the writing device and a password creation and notification instruction. Yes, this predetermined program is a copy means of the present invention,
Function as issuing means.

As described above, by setting the reader and the flash memory on which the book contents are copied to the reading terminal 105, the user can browse the book using the reading terminal 105. When the user uses the reading terminal 105 to view the contents of the book content stored in the book content, the reader activates the reader and opens the book list (step S307).

On the display device of the reading terminal 105, FIG.
List of books shown in the example of FIG.
A list of purchased books is displayed in 9. As shown in the example of FIG. 11, the book list includes information on book contents such as the author, title, publisher, and the like of the work, which is the contents of the book contents. In this process, the reader functioning as a receiving unit receives a browsing request by receiving a selection of information in the book list.

When a book to be read is selected from the list of purchased books in the list, the reading terminal 105 determines whether or not the selected book is to be read for the first time (step S311). Then, in the first case, the input of the password is requested, and the password input by the user is collated (step S313).
If it is determined that the password has been correctly entered, it is determined whether the current time falls within the rental period (step S315). If it is determined that the rental period has expired, the book content is decrypted based on the password, and the image of the selected book is displayed on the screen as shown in the example of FIG. Can be browsed (step S317).

Thereafter, when the user browses the purchased book, by repeating the processing from step S307, the book can be browsed any number of times within the rental period. When the same book is repeatedly browsed, the second and subsequent browsing can browse the book without inputting a password (step S311).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S315 that the current time has exceeded the rental period, the image of the selected book is not displayed, and a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed on the display device. Is performed (step S319). In order to browse the expired book content again, the rental content is paid again at the in-store terminal 109 to copy the book content to the flash memory and receive the password. Just set it.

The limitation of the display of the book content based on the determination whether the current time is within the rental period is specifically performed as follows.

(1) The rental period is calculated by the elapsed time,
When the rental start time is the rental time As shown in FIG. 10A, the rental type, the rental period, and the password issuance time are written in the book content, and the book content is encrypted using the password as a decryption key. Copy to flash memory and pass password. For this encryption, for example, a well-known technique such as a conventional encryption method can be used. Here, the rental type written in the book content refers to a type indicating which one of a plurality of rental methods or display restriction methods is adopted, and a usage method thereof will be described later.

Then, the user starts the reader at the reader terminal 105 in which the flash memory is set,
When reading the book contents by inputting the password, the password issuing time decrypted based on the password is compared with the timer of the reading terminal 105. If the result of the comparison is within the rental period, the content of the book content is displayed on the display device. On the other hand, if the rental period has passed, the content of the book content is not displayed, and a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed.

(2) The rental period is calculated by the elapsed time,
When the rental start time is set as the reading start time The rental type, rental period, and password issuance time are written in the book content, encrypted using the password as a decryption key, and the book content is copied to the user's flash memory, and the password is copied. give. Then, the reader terminal 10 in which the user sets the flash memory
When the reader is started in 5 and a book content is read by inputting a password, the following processing is performed.

In the case of the first time, the timer value at the time of inputting the password is encrypted and recorded in the book content.
Then, the decrypted password input time is transmitted to the reading terminal 1
Compare with the 05 timer. If the comparison result is within the rental period, the content of the book content is displayed, and if the comparison period is over, the content of the book content is not displayed,
Display a message that the rental has expired.

(3) When calculating the rental period based on the total reading time The rental type, the rental period, and the password issuance time are written in the book content and encrypted with the password.
Copy the book content to the user's flash memory and pass the password. When the user activates the reader at the reading terminal 105 in which the flash memory is set and reads the book content by inputting the password, the following processing is performed.

In the case of the first time, “0” is set as the accumulated reading time.
Is encrypted and recorded in the book content. The accumulated reading time, which is encrypted and recorded in the reading terminal, is read, and the time at which the book content is read is recorded. If the read cumulative reading time is within the rental period, the contents of the book content are displayed. If the accumulated reading time has passed the rental period, the contents of the book content are not displayed, and a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed.

When the book content is closed, the reading time of the book content and the difference at the time of closing the book content are added to the recorded cumulative reading time, and are encrypted and recorded.

(Second Embodiment) In the above-described embodiment, the case where an information terminal installed in a store or bookstore, in a public place, or the like is used as an example has been described.
The present invention can also be applied to a case where a rental service is provided without going through (this method is hereinafter referred to as a key method). Hereinafter, the rental service providing process according to the present embodiment will be described. However, the process from book selection to settlement in the present embodiment can be performed in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment. The repetition is omitted.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are flowcharts showing the operation of the rental system using the key system.

First, the user specifies a predetermined URL assigned to the content server 101 as a sales site on the reading terminal 105 and
03 to the content server 101,
The reader is downloaded (step S409). In the reading terminal 105, a reader is installed based on the downloaded file (step S41).
1).

Next, the user activates the installed reader (step S501), opens a book list (step S503), and uses the mouse to input desired book information from the displayed book list. A book is selected by clicking on the indicated row (step S50).
5). When there are a plurality of books and the book list is displayed over a plurality of screens, the technology of the shopping cart is used (step S507).

A shopping cart system is a computer system for shopping while placing desired products in a cart from a list of books on a plurality of screens, and for ordering the products finally placed in the cart. Technology. This technique is disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 11-161717 as a "method of placing an order to purchase an item", and it is possible to check the contents of a cart during shopping.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed when the user requests the store terminal 109 to check the shopping cart after selecting one book. FIG.
The screen shown in shows the title, publisher name,
The author, price, and sales tax are displayed. In the present embodiment, when the rental button 1201 is pressed,
While the user can proceed to the payment processing for the rental of the selected book, the delete button 12
By pressing 03, the rental of the book once put in the cart can be canceled.

When the user selects a desired book from the books displayed in the book list and presses a button 1201 on the screen shown in FIG. 12, a confirmation screen for confirming the selected book is displayed. Is done.

Here, when a plurality of settlement methods such as a cash card settlement and a debit card settlement are possible as the settlement method of the user, the settlement method which can be performed by the present system before displaying the confirmation screen is set. It may be displayed on a screen to prompt the user to select a settlement method. In this case, the content server 101 displays, on the display device, a screen for accepting input of information necessary for the selected settlement method, for example, a card number or the like. And
After the payment data including the received information and the payment amount is displayed on this screen and the user's confirmation is obtained (step S5).
13) The settlement data is transmitted to the settlement server 107.

The settlement server 107 performs a rental fee transfer process from the user's account to the rental company's account based on the received settlement data.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a payment screen in step S513 displayed after the user selects a payment method when a plurality of types of payments are possible. When a confirmation button 1301 is pressed on this screen, FIG.
A download screen of the rental key shown in the example of No. 4 is displayed (step S515).

The screen shown in FIG. 14 shows an order number,
A button 1401 to be pressed to download a rental key (substituted signature) is displayed. Here, when the user presses the button 1401, the key file is downloaded to the reading terminal (step S5).
17).

When the reader is activated in the reading terminal 105 to which the download has been performed, the book list shown in FIG. 11 is displayed. Here, when the user selects a book that the user wants to read from the book list (step S
519), the reading terminal 105 determines whether or not the current time falls within the rental period (step S521).
If it is determined that it is within the rental period, as shown in the example of FIG. 15, the image of the selected book is displayed on the display device, and the user can browse the purchased book (step S523).

Thereafter, when the user browses the purchased book, by repeating the processing from step S501, the book can be browsed any number of times within the rental period. When the same book is repeatedly viewed, the book can be viewed from the second time onward without inputting the password.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the rental period has expired at the time of performing the determination processing in step S521, the image of the selected book is not displayed, and a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed on the display device. It is displayed (step S525).

The display restriction of the contents of the book content based on the judgment as to whether or not it is within the rental period is specifically performed as follows. As shown in FIG. 10B, the user is provided with an encrypted book content (electronic book content file) and a rental key file. The key file incorporates a rental type, a rental period, a key issuance time, and a key for decrypting book contents.

Then, the rental key file is also encrypted using the reader ID as a decryption key.
Reading terminal 10 storing these files in a predetermined area
When the user activates the reader at 5, the reader decrypts the rental key file based on his / her own ID, and further decrypts the book content with reference to the book content key included in the key file. Specifically, it is performed as follows.

(4) The rental period is calculated by the elapsed time,
When the rental start time is the rental time Download the rental key file in which the book content key, rental type, rental period, and key issue time are encrypted and incorporated. When the reader reads the book content using the rental key file, the rental type, rental period, and key issue time incorporated in the rental key file are encrypted in the electronic book content file or the storage device of the reading terminal. Write.

When the user activates the reader and browses the contents of the book content, the user issues the decrypted key issue time,
The timer values of the reading terminal 105 are compared. If the result of the comparison is within the rental period, the content of the book content is displayed. If the comparison period has passed, the book content is not displayed, and a message indicating that the rental has expired is displayed on the display device.

(5) The rental period is calculated by the elapsed time,
When the rental start time is used as the reading start time: A rental key file in which the book content key, rental type, rental period, and key issuance time are encrypted and downloaded is downloaded. When the reader reads out the book content using the rental key file, the rental type and the rental period incorporated in the key file are encrypted and written in the book content. When the user activates the reader and browses the book content, the following processing is performed.

In the case of the first browsing, the timer value (reading start time) at the time when the content of the book content is opened is encrypted and recorded in the electronic bookcase book content file.

Then, the reading start time encrypted and recorded in the reading terminal is compared with the timer of the reading terminal. If the result of the comparison is within the rental period, the content of the book content is displayed, and if the rental period has passed, the book content is not displayed, and a message indicating that the rental has expired is displayed.

(6) When Calculating the Rental Period Based on Total Reading Time The rental key file in which the book content key, rental type, rental period, and key issuance time are encrypted and incorporated into the electronic book content is downloaded. When the user browses the electronic book content with the reader, the following processing is performed.

In the case of the first browsing, “0 (zero)” is encrypted as the accumulated reading time and recorded in the book content. Then, the cumulative reading time recorded in the book content is read. The time at which the book content was read is recorded. If the read cumulative reading time is within the rental time, the content of the book content is displayed, and if the rental period has passed, the content of the book content is not displayed, and a message indicating that the rental has expired is displayed.

When the book content is closed, the time at which the book content is read and the difference at the time when the book content is closed are added to the recorded cumulative reading time and encrypted and recorded.

As described above, the method of downloading the reader and the book content from the content server 101 has been described in the present embodiment.
And the like may be purchased by the user. For example, a recording medium such as a CD-ROM in which a reader is stored is inserted into a predetermined drive of the reading terminal 105,
Install the reader. Thereafter, when the user browses the book, the recording medium storing the book content is inserted into a predetermined drive, and the processing from step S501 is performed.

(Third Embodiment) In the present embodiment, an operation of a rental service in which a plurality of types of display restriction methods based on a rental period are combined will be described. Separation of different types of display restrictions is performed by the content server 10.
Request information for downloading the book content to the first, identification information indicating which rental method to use,
This is performed by a rental type indicating which display restriction method is used.

FIGS. 6 to 9 are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the rental system in which the above embodiment and this embodiment are combined.

First, when the reader is activated in the reading terminal 105, the rental method is determined based on the rental type of the book contents or the rental key file (step S601 in FIG. 6). The process proceeds to step S801 in FIG. 8 if the password method is used.

In step S603, it is determined which display restriction method to use (rental starting point) based on the rental type. First, when the rental type indicates the method of the above (1), that is, a method in which the rental period is calculated by the elapsed time and the rental start time is set as the starting point of the rental period, the rental type written in the book contents and the password The rental type is calculated from the time and the rental period (step S607). Then, a comparison process between the current time and the rental expiration date is performed (step S609), and if the current time has not passed the rental expiration date, the contents of the book content can be browsed (step S611,
S613). Thereafter, by activating the reader, the user can repeat browsing within the rental period.

If it is determined in the comparison processing in step S609 that the current time has passed the rental expiration date, a message indicating that the rental expiration date has expired is displayed, and the processing is terminated (step S625).

As a result of the judgment in step S603, if the rental start point type indicates the method of (2), that is, the method of calculating the rental period based on the elapsed time and setting the reading start time as the start point of the rental period, the rental start point type is written in the book content. The rental period is calculated from the rental type and the rental period (step S617). Then, a comparison process between the current time and the rental period is performed (step S619), and if the current time has not passed the rental period, the book content can be browsed (steps S621 and S62).
3). Thereafter, the user activates the reader,
Browsing can be repeated within the rental period.

In the comparison processing in step S619, if it is determined that the current time has passed the rental expiration date, a message indicating that the rental expiration date has expired is displayed, and the processing is terminated (step S625).

As a result of the determination in step S603, when the rental start point type indicates the method of (3), that is, the method of calculating the rental period by the accumulated reading time and setting the reading start time as the starting point of the rental period, the reading terminal 105 The total reading time is set to "0" (step S703). Then, the rental period written in the book content is compared with the total reading period (step S707), and if the current time has not passed the rental period, the book content can be browsed (step S709). When the user finishes browsing, the reading terminal encrypts and records the total time in the book content (step S711). Thereafter, each time the reader is activated by the user and a password is input, the rental period written in the book content and the cumulative reading period are compared.

In the comparison processing in step S707, if it is determined that the total reading time has passed the rental period, a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed, and the processing ends (step S713).

Next, a description will be given of the case where the result of determination in step S601 is that the rental system is the key system, that is, the case where the routine has shifted to step S801 in FIG.

When the rental start type is the method of (4), that is, when the rental period is calculated by the elapsed time and the rental start is set as the start of the rental period, the rental type and the key issuance time written in the book content are used. , Calculate the rental period from the rental period (step S80)
7). Then, a comparison process between the current time and the rental time limit is performed (step S809), and if the current time has not passed the rental time limit, the book content can be browsed (step S811). Thereafter, even if the user finishes browsing (step S813), by activating the reader, the browsing can be repeated within the rental period.

If it is determined in the comparison processing in step S809 that the current time has passed the rental period, a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed, and the processing ends.

In step S801, when it is determined that the rental starting point type is the method of (5), that is, when the rental period is calculated by the elapsed time and the reading start time is set as the starting point of the rental period, the individualization is performed. The rental period is calculated from the rental type written in the book content, the time when the file was individualized, and the rental period (step S819). Then, a comparison process between the current time and the rental expiration date is performed (step S821). If the current time has not passed the rental expiration date, the contents of the book content can be browsed (step S823). Thereafter, even if the user finishes browsing (step S825), by activating the reader, the browsing can be repeated within the rental period.

If it is determined in the comparison processing of step S821 that the current time has passed the rental expiration date, a message indicating that the rental expiration date has expired is displayed, and the processing is terminated (step S827).

In step S801, when it is determined that the rental start type is the method of (5), that is, when the rental period is calculated by the elapsed time and the reading start time is set as the start of the rental period, the book content is added. The rental period is calculated from the written rental type, the time when the file was individualized, and the rental period (step S81).
9). Then, a comparison process between the current time and the rental time limit is performed (step S821), and if the current time has not passed the rental time limit, the book content can be browsed (step S823). Thereafter, even if the user finishes browsing (step S825), by activating the reader, the browsing can be repeated within the rental period.

If it is determined in the comparison processing in step S821 that the current time has passed the rental expiration date, a message indicating that the rental expiration date has expired is displayed, and the processing is terminated (step S827).

In step S801, when it is determined that the rental origin type is the method of (6), that is, when the rental period is calculated by the cumulative reading period, the rental period written in the book content, the total reading time, and (Step S907), and if the current time has not passed the rental period, the book content can be browsed (step S909). When the user finishes browsing, the total reading time is encrypted and recorded in the book content (step S911). Step S907
If it is determined in the comparison process that the cumulative reading time has passed the rental period, a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed and the process ends (step S).
913).

When the display restriction method employs the methods (4) to (6), for example, as shown in FIG. 10B, when the key file is first referred to, the rental type,
Write the rental period and key issuance time in the book contents. If only the book content file is referred to for the second and subsequent activation of the reader, it is not necessary to refer to the key file every time the reader is activated.

The preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described above. However, it is needless to say that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment and can be implemented in other various modes. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the HTML language has been described as an example of the markup language. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the markup language is XML (Extensible Markup Language).
It is also possible to use a markup language having a function equivalent to or more than HTML, such as guage).

[0120] As a medium to be written in the store terminal, a CD-R or the like can be used in addition to the flash memory.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which the rental service is provided on the Internet using the HTML document has been described. However, the communication network is not limited to the Internet, and other dedicated telephone lines and general public telephone lines are provided. , An in-house LAN, a cable television, and a satellite communication network. Also, a protocol other than HTTP or FTP can be used as a protocol for communication between the client and the server.

Further, the display form of the information displayed on the customer terminal 111 in the markup language need not be limited to the above embodiment.

[0123]

As described above, according to the present invention,
A book content rental system for renting book content that can be browsed by a browsing terminal, provided from a store terminal installed in a store or a public place, wherein the shop terminal stores a plurality of the book contents. 1 storage means, copying means for copying the book content and information on the rental period of the book content to the second storage means of the browsing terminal, and issuing means for issuing a password for browsing the book content. Wherein the reading terminal comprises: a first reception unit that receives a request to browse the book content stored in the second storage unit; a second reception unit that receives input of the password; In the case where the request for browsing is received by the receiving unit of (1), the book content is transferred based on the rental period. Determining means for determining whether or not to display on the display device, the password received by the second receiving means, and the content of the book content to the display device based on the result of the determination by the determining means. With a browsing means to display, users do not purchase book contents, but rather pay for rentals that will not be available after a certain period of time, compared to purchasing ordinary books and book contents The book content service can be received at low cost, and it is expected that many users will be acquired. Also, since there is no need to return, there is more convenience for the user as compared to normal rental.

In a normal rental business, sales opportunities are lost due to out of stock. However, book contents can be easily duplicated, so that stock is not run out and rental can be performed at a low service cost. While at the same time improving the serviceability to the user.

Further, if a book is purchased at a used book store or a book is viewed at a manga cafe, etc., no consideration is paid to the publisher or author, but the book content rental business employs a rental mechanism. As a result, books can be provided at low cost, it is possible to compete with these old book stores, manga cafes, and the like, and it is possible to pay legitimate consideration to publishers and authors.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a book content rental system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of a computer system used in a book content rental system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a rental service process according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a rental service according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the rental system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the rental system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the rental system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the rental system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the rental system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the content display restriction of book content, in which FIG. 10A is a diagram for explaining a content display restriction method in a password method, and FIG.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display form of an HTML document.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display form of an HTML document.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display form of an HTML document.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a display form of an HTML document.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display form of an HTML document.

[Explanation of symbols]

101 Content Server 103 Internet 105 Reading Terminal 107 Settlement Server 109 Store Terminal 201 CPU 203 ROM 205 RAM 207 Bus 209 Auxiliary Storage Device 211 Communication Interface 213 Input Device 1101, 1201, 1203, 1301, 1401
button

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) G06F 15/00 330 G06F 15/00 330Z 17/30 110 17/30 110F 120 120B

Claims (34)

[Claims] 1. A book content rental system for renting book content that can be browsed by a browsing terminal, provided from a shop terminal provided in a store or a public place, wherein the shop terminal includes a plurality of books. A first storage unit that stores the content, a copy unit that copies the book content and information on a rental period of the book content to a second storage unit of the browsing terminal, and a password for browsing the book content. Issuing means for issuing, the browsing terminal, a first receiving means for receiving a request for browsing the book content stored in the second storage means, a second receiving means for receiving the input of the password, In response to the request received by the first receiving means,
A determination unit that determines whether to display the book content on a display device based on the rental period, and based on a result of the determination by the password and the determination unit received by the second reception unit, A book content rental system, comprising: a browsing unit for displaying the content of the book content on the display device. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first reception unit displays information on the book content copied to the second storage unit on the display device, and receives a selection of the displayed information. Item 1. A book content rental system according to item 1. 3. The copy means encrypts the book content and copies it to the second storage means, the issuing means issues a password for decrypting the book content, and the browsing terminal comprises: 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a decryption unit configured to decrypt the book content based on the password, wherein the browsing unit displays the book content decrypted by the decryption unit on the display device. 4. Book content rental system. 4. A first calculating means for calculating the rental term from the time when the password was issued by the issuing means and the rental period stored in the second storage means, And comparing the rental time calculated by the first calculating means with a current time to determine whether to display the book content on the display device. Or the book content rental system described in 3. 5. A second calculating unit for calculating the rental period from the time when the display of the book content is started by the browsing unit and the rental period, wherein the determining unit calculates the rental period by the second calculating unit. The book content rental according to claim 1, wherein the calculated rental period is compared with a current time to determine whether to display the book content on the display device. system. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the determining unit determines whether or not the book content is to be displayed on the display device by comparing the total time of browsing the book content with the rental period. Item 3. A rental system for book contents according to item 1, 2 or 3. 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein when the book content is not displayed as a result of the determination by the determination unit, a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed on the display device. A book content rental system according to any one of the preceding claims. 8. A content server that provides a service of renting one or more book contents for browsing to a user, and a browsing terminal used by the user and capable of browsing the book contents provided from the content server. Is a book content rental system connected to a communication network, wherein the content server, the first storage means storing a plurality of the book content, and in response to a request from the browsing terminal, the content server Providing means for providing, to the browsing terminal, the book content stored in the first storage means and a key file incorporating the rental period of the book content, wherein the browsing terminal is provided from the content server Second storage means for storing the book content and the key file; A first reception unit that receives a request for browsing the book content stored in the storage unit, and a request received by the first reception unit, based on the rental period described in the key file, Determining means for determining whether or not the book content is to be displayed on a display device, and browsing means for displaying the content of the book content on the display device based on a result of the determination by the determining means. A featured book content rental system. 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first reception unit displays information on the book content stored in the second storage unit on the display device, and receives selection of the displayed information. A book content rental system according to claim 8. 10. The rental system includes a plurality of payment servers connected to the content server and capable of performing a plurality of different payment methods, and the providing unit receives a selection of the payment method. The book content rental system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: 11. The book content provided from the content server is encrypted, and a decryption key for decrypting the book content is incorporated in the key file. A decryption unit configured to decrypt the book content based on the decryption key incorporated in the file, wherein the browsing unit displays the book content decrypted by the decryption unit on the display device. The book content rental system according to claim 8, 9 or 10. 12. A rental unit comprising: a calculating unit configured to calculate the rental period from a time at which the key file is created by the providing unit and the rental period, wherein the determining unit determines whether the rental period is calculated by the calculating unit. The book content rental system according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein it is determined whether or not the book content is to be displayed on the display device by comparing with the time of the book content. 13. A calculating means for calculating the rental period from the time when the display of the contents of the book content is started by the browsing means and the rental period, wherein the determining means is calculated by the calculating means. The book content according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the rental time limit is compared with a current time to determine whether to display the book content on the display device. Rental system. 14. The method according to claim 1, wherein the determining unit determines whether or not the book content is to be displayed on the display device by comparing the total time of browsing the book content with the rental period. Any one of items 8 to 11
The book content rental system described in the section. 15. The method according to claim 1, wherein, if the book content is not displayed on the display device as a result of the determination by the determination means, a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed on the display device. 15. The book content rental system according to any one of items 8 to 14. 16. A method for providing a book content rental service for renting book content that can be browsed by a browsing terminal, provided from a store terminal installed in a store or a public place, wherein the first of the shop terminal is provided. A plurality of the book contents are stored in the storage means.
A copy step of copying the book content and information of the rental period of the book content to a storage unit of the book content issuing step of issuing a password for browsing the book content; A first receiving step of receiving a request for browsing the book content stored in the second terminal; and a second receiving step of receiving the input of the password by the browsing terminal.
A receiving step of determining whether or not to display the book content on a display device based on the rental period when the browsing request is received in the first receiving step; A browsing step of displaying the contents of the book content on the display device based on the password received in the receiving step of step 2 and the result of the determination in the determining step. How to provide. 17. The method according to claim 17, wherein the first receiving step includes the second receiving step.
17. The method of providing a book content rental service according to claim 16, wherein information related to the book content copied to the storage unit is displayed on the display device, and selection of the displayed information is accepted. 18. The copying step includes encrypting the book content and copying the encrypted content to the second storage unit, the issuing step issues a password for decrypting the book content, and the browsing step includes: 18. The method of providing a book content rental service according to claim 16, wherein the book content decrypted based on the password is displayed on the display device. 19. A first calculating step of calculating the rental period from the time at which the password was issued in the issuing step and the rental period copied in the copying step, wherein the determining step includes: And determining whether to display the book content on the display device by comparing the rental period calculated in the calculating step with the current time.
8. The method for providing a book content rental service according to item 8. 20. A second calculating step of calculating the rental period from a time at which browsing of the contents of the book content is started and the rental period, wherein the determining step is calculated in the second calculating step. 18. The method according to claim 16, wherein the rental period is compared with a current time to determine whether to display the book content on the display device.
8. The method for providing a book content rental service according to item 8. 21. The method of claim 21, wherein the determining step determines whether or not the book content is to be displayed on the display device by comparing the total time of browsing the book content with the rental period. Item 16, 17 or 1
8. The method for providing a book content rental service according to item 8. 22. The method according to claim 22, wherein, as a result of the determination in the determination step, when the book content is not displayed on the display device, a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed on the display device. 22. The method for providing a book content rental service according to any one of 16 to 21. 23. A content server providing a service of renting one or more book contents for browsing to a user, a terminal used by the user and capable of browsing the book contents provided from the content server. Is a method of providing a rental service of book contents in a rental system connected to a communication network, wherein a plurality of the book contents are stored in a first storage unit of the content server; Providing, in response to a request, the book content stored in the first storage means and a key file incorporating a rental period of the book content from the content server to the terminal; The book content and the key file provided in the step In a second storage means of the terminal, a first receiving step of receiving a request for browsing the book content stored in the second storing step, and a first receiving step A determination step of determining whether to display the book content on a display device of the terminal based on the rental period described in the key file in response to the request received in the step; and a determination in the determination step. And a browsing step of displaying the contents of the book content on the display device based on the result of (1). 24. The method according to claim 24, wherein the first accepting step comprises:
24. The browsing request of the book content is received by displaying the information on the book content stored in the storage step of (b) on the display device and accepting the selection of the displayed information. How to provide a rental service for book content. 25. The system, comprising: a plurality of payment servers connected to the content server, the plurality of payment servers capable of performing a plurality of different payment methods, wherein the providing step receives a selection of the payment method. Claim 23
Or a method of providing a book content rental service according to 24. 26. The providing step, wherein the book content is encrypted and provided to the terminal. The key file incorporates a decryption key for decrypting the book content in the terminal, and decrypts the terminal. Using means
A decryption step of decrypting the book content stored in the second storage step based on the decryption key incorporated in the key file, wherein the browsing step includes converting the book content decrypted in the decryption step to the The book content rental service providing method according to claim 23, 24 or 25, wherein the book content rental service is displayed on a display device. 27. A first calculating step of calculating the rental period from the time at which the key file was created in the browsing step and the rental period, wherein the determining step is calculated in the first calculating step. Compare the rental time limit and the current time,
27. The method of providing a book content rental service according to claim 23, wherein it is determined whether to display the book content on the display device. 28. A second calculating step of calculating the rental period from the time at which the display of the content of the book content is started in the browsing step and the rental period, wherein the determining step includes the second calculating step. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the rental time limit calculated in the step is compared with a current time to determine whether to display the book content on the display device. How to provide a rental service for the book content described. 29. The method according to claim 29, wherein the determining step determines whether or not the book content is to be displayed on the display device by comparing a total time of browsing the book content with the rental period. 27. A method for providing a book content rental service according to any one of Items 23 to 26. 30. The method according to claim 30, wherein as a result of the determination in the determining step, when the book content is not displayed on the display device, a message indicating that the rental period has expired is displayed on the display device. 30. The method for providing a book content rental service according to any one of 23 to 29. 31. A storage unit storing one or more book contents for browsing and information on a rental period of the book contents, and a first receiving unit receiving a request for browsing the book contents stored in the storage unit. A second reception unit that receives an input of a password for browsing the book content, issued by a store terminal, and a request received by the first reception unit, based on the rental period, Determining means for determining whether or not the book content is to be displayed on a display device; the password received by the second receiving means; and the content of the book content based on a result of the determination by the determining means. A browsing device for book contents, comprising: a browsing unit for displaying on a display device. 32. A storage for storing the book content and a key file incorporating a rental period of the book content provided from a content server providing a service of renting one or more book content for browsing to a user. Means, a first receiving means for receiving a request for browsing the book content stored in the storage means,
Determining means for determining whether or not to display the book content on a display device based on the rental period described in the key file in response to a request received by the receiving means of A book content browsing device, comprising: a browsing means for displaying the contents of the book content on the display device based on the result. 33. A storing step of storing one or more book contents for browsing and information on a rental period of the book contents, and a first receiving step of receiving a request for browsing the book contents stored in the storing step. A second reception step of receiving an input of a password for browsing the book content, issued by the in-store terminal, and in response to the request received in the first reception step,
Based on the rental period, a determining step of determining whether to display the book content on a display device, based on the password received in the second receiving step, and a result of the determination in the determining step, A computer program product for executing a program comprising a browsing step of displaying the contents of the book content on the display device. 34. A storage for storing the book content and a key file in which a rental period of the book content is provided, which is provided from a content server that provides a service of renting one or more book content for browsing to a user. And a first receiving step of receiving a request for browsing the book content stored in the storing step; and, in response to the request received in the first step, based on the rental period described in the key file. A determination step of determining whether to display the book content on a display device; and a browsing step of displaying the content of the book content on the display device based on a result of the determination in the determination step. A computer program product for running a program.