JP2007122464A - Content distributing device, operation program of the device, content reproducing device and operation program of the device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a content distributing device which can be applied to a content distribution system in which a user pays a predetermined charge, receives desired content data through a communication line so that the user can use received content data only for a predetermined usable period and can continue the usable period by paying an additional charge, and can positively urge the user to continue the reproducible period, an operation program of the device, a terminal device and an operation program of the device. <P>SOLUTION: The content distributing device or the terminal device is provided with a payment processing state acquiring means for acquiring a payment processing state of the user, and a payment condition determining means for determining whether the acquired payment processing state satisfies a predetermined payment condition, and when the payment condition determining means determines that the payment state does not satisfy the payment condition, the terminal device reproduces content data whose quality is deteriorated. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a content distribution device, an operation program for the device, a content reproduction device, and an operation program for the device.

  Conventionally, a plurality of recording media such as video tapes, CDs, and DVDs on which contents such as music and video are recorded are displayed in a store, and a customer who visits the store pays a predetermined fee to record desired contents. Content rental systems that rent and view videos for a certain period are widely used.

  However, in this content rental system, the store side must have a large number of recording media on which a plurality of types of content are recorded, and a store equipped with a space for displaying the large number of recording media. Employees who correspond to customers are required, and a large amount of money is required to operate the store.

  In addition, a user who uses this type of store needs to go to the store in order to borrow the recording medium on which the content is recorded. Further, after viewing the content, the user goes to the store again to return the borrowed recording medium. It was necessary and troublesome.

  Therefore, when the user likes without using a store for displaying a large number of recording media or an employee corresponding to the user by using a communication line such as the Internet which has been widespread in recent years. A content distribution system has been devised in which desired content can be rented and viewed for a certain period of time (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In this content distribution system, a user receives desired content data via a communication line from a content distributor that possesses a plurality of content data such as music data and video data. It is a system that can view the content to be played.

  That is, the content distribution system includes a content storage unit that stores a plurality of types of content data, a content distribution unit that distributes content data corresponding to a distribution request from a user, and the content data is within a predetermined lending condition. Content distribution apparatus provided with distribution data generation means for generating distribution data in which the content data is protected so as to be used in the distribution, and distribution request transmission for transmitting a content distribution request to the content distribution apparatus Means, a content receiving means for receiving distribution data distributed from the content distribution apparatus, a user-side terminal device provided with a reproducing means for reproducing the received distribution data, and a communication line such as the Internet. ing.

  Then, the user pays the content distributor for a fee corresponding to the desired content, and connects his / her terminal device to the content distribution device via the communication line, and responds to the desired content from the content distribution device. By receiving the distributed data, the content can be rented and viewed for a certain period of time.

Further, in this content distribution system, the content distribution apparatus can set a plurality of types of rental periods for distribution data, and the user ends the initial rental period by paying an additional fee. Even after this, the distribution data received once in the extended rental period can be reproduced to view the content.
JP 2001-319164 A

  However, in the above conventional content distribution system, the distribution data generating means of the content distribution apparatus is configured to protect the content data so that the user cannot use the distribution data after a certain rental period ends. Regarding the fact that the user pays an additional fee and continues the rental period, the content distributor is only passive, and it has been difficult to increase profits from this additional fee.

  Therefore, in the present invention according to claim 1, a distribution request receiving means for receiving a content distribution request including information relating to a license from a terminal device via a network, and distributing content data corresponding to the content distribution request to the terminal device In the content distribution apparatus having the content distribution means for performing the license distribution, the license information storage means for storing the license information and the payment conditions for the license in association with each other, the payment processing status acquisition means for acquiring the payment processing status for the license, and the payment processing status Payment condition determination means for determining whether the payment processing status acquired by the acquisition means satisfies the payment condition, and the content distribution means is determined by the payment condition determination means that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment condition Terminal device that sent the content distribution request The other hand, it was decided to distribute the different payment processing for promoting content data from the content data corresponding to the content delivery request.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 2, the content distribution apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a distribution restriction storage means for storing a distribution period and / or the number of distributions of the settlement processing promotion content data, If the distribution means determines that the distribution available period and / or the number of distribution possible stored in the distribution restriction storage means has been exceeded, the distribution processing promoting content data is not distributed.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the content distribution device according to the first or second aspect, the content distribution apparatus includes contents related to the contents data corresponding to the contents distribution request, and the contents differ from the contents data. Related content storage means for storing related content data is provided, and the content distribution means distributes the related content data stored in the related content storage means to the terminal device as payment processing promoting content data.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the content distribution device according to any one of the first to third aspects, a part of the content data corresponding to the content distribution request is generated as payment processing promoting content data. It has a 1st content production | generation means, A content delivery means delivers the content data for settlement process promotion produced | generated by the 1st content production | generation means to a terminal device, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 5, in the content distribution device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, settlement processing is promoted for content data whose reproduction quality of content data corresponding to the content distribution request is degraded. The content distribution means distributes the payment processing promotion content data generated by the second content generation means to the terminal device.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 6, in the content distribution device according to claim 1 or 2, the content distribution apparatus has contents related to the contents of the contents data corresponding to the contents distribution request, and has different contents from the contents data. Related content storage means for storing content data, first content generation means for generating a part of the content data corresponding to the content distribution request as content data for promoting settlement processing, and reproduction quality of the content data corresponding to the content distribution request Second content generation means for generating content data with degraded content as settlement processing promotion content data, the content distribution means includes related content data stored in the related content storage means, and first content generation means Containment for promoting payment processing generated by Content selection means for arbitrarily selecting any one of the content data and the settlement processing promotion content data generated by the second content generation means, and the content data selected by the content selection means is settled The content data for processing promotion is distributed to the terminal device.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 7, in the content distribution device according to claim 5 or 6, the second content generation means reproduces in stages according to the elapsed time from the start of the distributable period. It has the 1st degradation means which raises the degree of quality degradation, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 8, in the content distribution device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, the second content generation unit responds to an increase in the number of distributions of the settlement processing promotion content data. , Characterized in that it has second deterioration means for increasing the degree of deterioration of reproduction quality step by step.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 9, in the content distribution device according to any one of claims 5 to 8, the second content generation unit is configured to perform stepwise with the progress of reproduction of the settlement processing promoting content data. And a progressive deterioration means for increasing the degree of deterioration of reproduction quality.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program for causing a computer to function as each unit of the distribution apparatus according to any one of the first to ninth aspects.

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, in a content reproduction apparatus including content acquisition means for acquiring content data and reproduction means for reproducing content data, information relating to a license for reproducing content data and a license The license information storage means for storing the payment conditions in association with each other, the payment processing status acquisition means for acquiring the payment processing status for the license based on the information about the license, and the payment processing status acquired by the payment processing status acquisition means are the payment conditions. A payment condition determining means for determining whether or not the condition is satisfied, and a reproduction restriction means for restricting reproduction of the content data acquired by the content acquisition means. When it is determined that it does not meet the requirements, playback restrictions are applied. Content playback apparatus characterized by reproducing the Tsu content data.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the content reproduction apparatus according to the eleventh aspect, the reproduction apparatus further comprises reproduction restriction storage means for storing a reproduction possible period and / or the number of reproductions of the content data subjected to reproduction restriction. When the restricting unit determines that the reproducible period and / or the reproducible number of times stored in the replay restriction storage unit have been exceeded, the first restricting the reproduction of the content data by not reproducing the reproducible content data is performed. It has a reproduction limiting means.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 13, in the content reproduction device according to claim 11 or claim 12, when the reproduction restriction unit determines that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment condition by the payment condition determination unit. In addition, related content requesting means for requesting the content distribution apparatus to distribute related content data having contents related to the content data corresponding to the content distribution request and having different contents from the content data, and corresponding to the distribution request Related content receiving means for receiving the related content data and related content storage means for storing the related content data received by the related content receiving means are provided, and the playback means plays back the related content data stored in the related content storage means. Playback as restricted content data The features.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 14, in the content reproduction apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 13, the reproduction restricting unit is configured to reproduce only a part of the content data acquired by the content acquisition unit. It has the 2nd reproduction | regeneration restriction | limiting means restrict | limited to reproducibility, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the content reproduction device according to any one of the eleventh to fourteenth aspects, the reproduction restriction unit degrades the reproduction quality of the content data acquired by the content acquisition unit. It has a 3rd reproduction | regeneration restriction means which restrict | limits reproduction | regeneration of content data, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 16, in the content playback apparatus according to claim 11 or claim 12, when the playback restriction unit determines that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment condition by the payment condition determination unit. In addition, related content requesting means for requesting the content distribution apparatus to distribute related content data having contents related to the content data corresponding to the content distribution request and having different contents from the content data, and corresponding to the distribution request Related content receiving means for receiving related content data, related content storage means for storing related content data received by the related content receiving means, and only a part of the content data acquired by the content acquisition means can be played back by the playback means Second playback restriction means for restricting and content acquisition And third reproduction restriction means for restricting reproduction of the content data by degrading the reproduction quality of the content data acquired in the step, wherein the reproduction means includes related content data stored in the related content storage means, and second reproduction restriction means. Content selection means for arbitrarily selecting any one of the content data generated by the above and the content data generated by the third reproduction restriction means, and reproduction restriction of the content data selected by the content selection means It is characterized in that it is reproduced as content data that has been

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 17, in the content reproduction device according to claim 15 or claim 16, the third reproduction restriction means is stepwise according to the elapsed time from the start of the reproduction possible period. It has the 1st degradation means which raises the degree of degradation of reproduction quality, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 18, in the content reproduction device according to claim 15 to claim 17, the third reproduction restriction unit corresponds to an increase in the number of reproductions of the content data acquired by the content acquisition unit. It has the 2nd deterioration means which raises the degree of reproduction quality deterioration in steps.

  According to the nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in the content reproduction device according to any one of the fifteenth to eighteenth aspects, the third reproduction restriction unit is configured to gradually reproduce the reproduction quality as the content data reproduction proceeds. It has the progress deterioration means which raises the degree of deterioration, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  The present invention according to claim 20 provides a program for causing a computer to function as each unit of the playback apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 19.

  According to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.

  According to the first to twentieth aspects of the present invention, the content data distributor can actively encourage the content user to continue the content reproduction period.

  In the present invention according to claim 1, when the content distribution request from the terminal device is received, the distribution of content data is completely prohibited when the payment condition determination means determines that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment condition. Instead, the content data for settlement processing promotion is distributed to the terminal device that has transmitted the content distribution request, so that the user who has transmitted the content distribution request is actively encouraged to continue the content availability period. The user can be urged to pay an additional fee as a settlement process.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 2, the payment processing promotion content data is distributed beyond the distribution possible period of the payment processing promotion content data or the number of possible distributions to the user who transmitted the distribution request. Therefore, it is possible to restrict content distribution to a user who intends to view settlement promotion content data.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the related content data is distributed to the terminal device that has transmitted the content distribution request, thereby prompting the user who has transmitted the content distribution request to continue the content availability period. I can do it.

  Also, in the present invention according to claim 4, by distributing the payment processing promoting content data that can be reproduced only partially generated by the first content generating means to the terminal device on the user side, the user can Since the user wants to view the content, the user can be actively encouraged to continue the content reproducible period.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 5, by distributing the settlement processing promoting content data with degraded reproduction quality generated by the second content generating means to the terminal device on the user side, the user can further improve the quality. Therefore, it is possible to actively encourage the user to continue the content reproducible period.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 6, it is arbitrarily selected from the related content data, the payment processing promotion content data generated by the first content generation means, and the payment processing promotion content data generated by the second content generation means. Since the data can be distributed to the terminal device on the user side, it is possible to actively encourage the continuation of the content reproducible period without distracting the user's interest.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 7, the reproduction quality is gradually deteriorated in accordance with the elapsed time from the start of the distribution possible period, so that the user can not reproduce according to the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality. It is possible to recognize that a certain time is approaching, and to more actively promote the continuation of the content reproducible period.

  In the present invention according to claim 8, the reproduction quality is gradually deteriorated in accordance with the number of times the settlement processing promotion content data is distributed, thereby making it impossible for the user to reproduce according to the degree of degradation of the reproduction quality. It is possible to recognize that the number of times is approaching, and to more actively promote the continuation of the content reproducible period.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 9, the payment processing promotion content data is gradually deteriorated with the progress of the payment processing promotion content data playback, so that the payment processing promotion content data is played back to the user during playback. It can be recognized that no payment has been made, and the user can be actively encouraged to perform payment processing.

  In the present invention according to claim 11, when the acquired content data is reproduced, the reproduction of the content data is completely prohibited when the payment condition determination unit determines that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment condition. Rather than playing content data that has been restricted to playback, users can be actively encouraged to continue the content availability period, and the user can be charged for additional charges that are payment processing. Can prompt payment.

  In the present invention according to claim 12, the user who reproduces the acquired content data reproduces the content data whose reproduction is restricted beyond the reproduction possible period of the restricted content data or the number of reproductions possible. Therefore, it is possible to prohibit the reproduction of the content for the user who intends to view the content data subjected to the reproduction restriction, and to appropriately promote the settlement process.

  In the present invention according to claim 13, it is possible to prompt the user to continue the content availability period by reproducing the related content data.

  According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, by causing the user to reproduce the content data that has been restricted by the second reproduction restriction unit, the user who has reproduced this content data wants to view the content throughout. Therefore, the user can be actively encouraged to continue the content reproducible period.

  In the present invention according to claim 15, the user who has reproduced the content data by causing the user to reproduce the content data subjected to the reproduction restriction by the third reproduction restricting means, can reproduce the normal content with higher quality. Therefore, it is possible to actively encourage the user to continue the content reproducible period.

  According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, any one of the related content data, the content data restricted by the second reproduction restricting unit, and the content data restricted by the third reproduction restricting unit may be selected. Therefore, it is possible to actively encourage the continuation of the content reproducible period without distracting the user's interest.

  According to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the reproduction quality is gradually deteriorated in accordance with the elapsed time from the start of the distributable period, so that the user can not reproduce according to the degree of the degradation of the reproduction quality. It is possible to recognize that a certain time is approaching, and to more actively promote the continuation of the content reproducible period.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 18, the reproduction quality is gradually deteriorated according to the number of distributions of the content data subjected to the reproduction restriction, so that the user can not reproduce according to the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality. Can be recognized and the continuation of the content reproducible period can be more actively promoted.

  Further, in the present invention according to claim 19, the content quality for payment processing promotion is settled to the user during the reproduction by gradually degrading the reproduction quality as the reproduction of the content data subjected to the reproduction restriction progresses. It is possible to recognize that processing is not being performed, and it is possible to actively encourage the user to perform settlement processing.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings.

[1. First Embodiment]
[1.1. Outline of content distribution system to which content distribution apparatus according to the present invention is applied]
First, an outline of a content distribution system to which a content distribution apparatus according to the present invention is applied will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the content distribution system S includes a content distribution apparatus 1 on the side of a content distributor that distributes content data such as video and music based on a content distribution request from a user, and the content distribution apparatus. A terminal device 2 on the user side that receives and reproduces the content data distributed from 1, and a payment management device that manages a payment processing status of a fee paid to the content distributor for the user to use the content 3 is provided.

  The content distribution apparatus 1, the terminal apparatus 2, and the payment management apparatus 3 are connected to each other via a communication line 4 such as the Internet.

  Then, the content distribution system S confirms that the content distribution apparatus 1 has received a content distribution request including information related to a license, which will be described later, from the user and paid a fee corresponding to the content desired by the user. This is a system in which a content distributor lends content to a user by distributing content data from the content distribution device 1 to the terminal device 2 on the user side only during a period corresponding to the paid fee.

  Specifically, the user accesses a content distribution site operated by a content distributor and selects desired content.

  Here, when a user uses this content distribution site for the first time, first, personal information such as the user's own address, name, telephone number, and credit card number is transmitted to the content distribution apparatus 1.

  When the content distribution apparatus 1 receives this personal information, it records the received personal information and, as a license for using this content distribution site, to the terminal device 2 on the user side that transmitted the personal information. Send ID and password.

  The user who has received the ID and password by the terminal device 2 operates the terminal device 2 to select desired content from a plurality of types of content posted on the content distribution site.

  At this time, the content distribution apparatus 1 requests and receives the payment processing status of the user corresponding to this license by transmitting information related to the user's license to the payment management apparatus 3.

  The settlement processing status in the present embodiment refers to information on whether or not a predetermined fee has been withdrawn from the user's account corresponding to the license and transferred to the content distributor's account, and the date and time when these withdrawals and transfers were made. It is information about.

  In addition to the above information related to debiting charges from the account, information regarding whether or not the user has indicated an intention to pay for the content desired by the user may be added as the settlement processing status.

  In this case, the payment management device 3 can consider that the user wishes to pay the fee by inputting the credit card number and the like on the input screen of the terminal device 2 and pressing the confirm button. It can be recharged in addition to the unpaid amount.

  At this time, even if the user indicates the willingness to pay with a credit card, if the payment with the credit card is not actually possible (for example, if the limit is exceeded or the number is wrong) Therefore, it is desirable to update the approval processing status when confirming with the credit company that payment is possible.

  The content distribution apparatus 1 confirms that the fee has been paid by the user based on the settlement processing status, and then distributes the content data to the user only during the period corresponding to the paid fee. Lending content to

  In the content distribution system S, even after the content availability period corresponding to the fee paid by the user is over, the user pays an additional fee to the content distributor, The content availability period can be continued for the period corresponding to the additional fee.

  Hereinafter, the content distribution device 1, the terminal device 2, and the payment management device 3 constituting the content distribution system S will be specifically described.

[1.2. Configuration of content distribution apparatus]
FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the content distribution apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. The content distribution apparatus 1 can be applied to a general server computer. As shown in FIG. 2, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101 and a rewritable first storage unit 102 that stores (stores) various programs and the like. A network interface for communicating between the second storage unit 103 composed of a hard disk device or the like for storing various data and the like, and the terminal device 2 or the payment management device 3 on the user side via the communication line 4 104, a peripheral device control chip 107 that controls an input unit such as a keyboard 105 and a mouse 106 capable of inputting predetermined information, and image data received from the CPU 101, written into an internal video memory (not shown), and this video A video chip 108 that displays data written in the memory on a display 109 (to be described later) and a display corresponding to a signal transmitted from the video chip 108 are performed. A display 109, a sound source chip 110 having a sound source such as an FM sound source (Frequency Modulation) or a Wave Table sound source, and a speaker 111 that converts an audio signal output from the sound source chip 110 into a sound wave are configured. The components are connected to each other via a system bus 112. In the present embodiment, the CPU 101, the first storage unit 102, and the second storage unit 103 constitute a control unit 113. The network interface 104 is connected to the communication line 4 via the router 10a.

(About the first storage unit 102)
Further, the first storage unit 102 includes an OS (operating system) program 120 for providing basic functions of the content distribution apparatus 1 as a computer, and content data stored in the second storage unit 103. Control program 121 for extracting and distributing to terminal device 2, reproduction restriction control program 122 for generating settlement processing promoting content data by performing reproduction restriction processing on the content data to be distributed, display A screen control program 123 for controlling 109, a payment condition determination control program 124 for determining whether or not the payment processing status of the user satisfies a payment condition to be described later, and the like are stored. And the function according to these programs is executed by the CPU 101.

  Here, the OS program 120 is read out and executed by the CPU 101, whereby functions relating to input / output of the keyboard 105 and the mouse 106, memory management of the first storage unit 102, the second storage unit 103, and the like are performed. The basic function of the computer that is the content distribution apparatus 1 can be executed. Then, with the OS program 120 being executed by the CPU 101, the above-described distribution control program 121, reproduction restriction control program 122, screen control program 123, settlement condition determination program 124, and the like are executed.

  The OS program 120, the distribution control program 121, the playback restriction control program 122, the screen control program 123, the settlement condition determination program 124, and the like are downloaded to the first storage unit 102 from, for example, a server connected to the communication line 4. Alternatively, it may be recorded on a storage medium such as a CD-ROM and then read into the first storage unit 102 via a drive of the storage medium.

(About the second storage unit 103)
The second storage unit 103 stores content data including a plurality of types of video data and music data to be transmitted to the terminal device 2 on the user side, and functions as a content data storage unit. Stores related content data (hereinafter referred to as “trial version data”) that is related to the content of the content data but is different from the content data, and also functions as related content data storage means. Is.

  The trial version data stored in the related content storage means is distributed to the terminal device 2 as payment processing promotion data based on the result of determination by the payment condition determination means described later.

  Further, the second storage unit 103 stores information relating to the license of each user who has transmitted the content distribution request (user ID and password) and payment conditions in association with each other as license information storage means. It functions.

  The settlement conditions here indicate the following two conditions.

  Settlement condition 1: The user who sent the content distribution request has not paid an additional fee for the content requested by the user for the first time until the present, and the content corresponding to the first payment is now available The condition that it is within the period.

  Settlement condition 2: An additional fee has been paid between the first payment of the predetermined fee for the content requested by the user who sent the content distribution request and the content corresponding to the additional fee paid can be used now The condition that it is within the period.

  In addition, the second storage unit 103 stores distribution restriction information including a distribution period and / or the number of distributions of settlement processing promotion content data, which will be described later, and also functions as a distribution restriction storage unit. Is.

(About the control unit 113)
As described above, the control unit 113 includes the CPU 101, the first storage unit 102, and the second storage unit 103, and the CPU 101 reads out and executes various programs 120 to 124 stored in the first storage unit 102. By doing so, the entire content distribution apparatus 1 is comprehensively controlled, and a distribution request receiving unit, a content distribution unit, a payment processing status acquisition unit, a payment condition determination unit, a first content generation unit, a second content generation unit, which will be described later, It functions as content selection means, first deterioration means, second deterioration means, progress deterioration means, and the like.

(About distribution request receiving means)
That is, the control unit 113 of the content distribution apparatus 1 (hereinafter, also simply referred to as “control unit 113”) functions as a distribution request receiving unit, and configures a content distribution request including license-related information through the communication line 4. A process of receiving from the terminal device 2 is performed via the network.

  The information regarding the license received at this time is based on the ID and password for identifying the user who is operating the terminal device 2 that has transmitted the content distribution request, and information indicating the type of content selected by the user. Information.

(About content distribution means)
In addition, the control unit 113 functions as a content distribution unit, reads content data corresponding to the received content distribution request from the second storage unit 103, and reads the read content data into the system bus 112, the network interface 104, and the like. The distribution processing to the terminal device 2 is performed via the router 10a.

  In addition, when the control unit 113 functions as a content distribution unit, an additional fee required for the continuation of the content availability period to the user when the payment condition determination unit described later determines that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment condition In order to prompt payment (settlement), processing for distributing settlement processing promoting content data different from the content data corresponding to the content distribution request is performed to the terminal device that has transmitted the content distribution request.

(About payment processing status acquisition means)
Further, when receiving the content distribution request from the terminal device 2 on the user side, the control unit 113 functions as a payment processing status acquisition unit, and determines the payment processing status of the user who has transmitted the content distribution request to the payment management device 3. Request and receive processing.

  The payment processing status received at this time is related to information on whether or not the user who transmitted the content distribution request paid a predetermined fee for the requested content, and the date and time when the user paid the predetermined fee. It is information indicating information.

(About payment condition judgment means)
In addition, when receiving a content distribution request from the terminal device 2 on the user side, the control unit 113 functions as a payment condition determination unit and determines whether or not the acquired payment processing status of the user satisfies the payment condition. Process.

  At this time, if the control unit 113 determines that the payment processing status of the user does not satisfy the payment processing conditions, that is, after first paying a predetermined fee for the content requested by the user who transmitted the content distribution request. No additional fees have been paid to date, and currently not within the content availability period corresponding to the first payment, or the prescribed fee for the content requested by the user who sent the content delivery request is paid first Terminal that has paid an additional fee from the current date to the present, and has functioned as a content distribution means and sent a content distribution request when it is determined that it is not currently within the content availability period corresponding to the additional fee paid The content data for promoting the settlement process different from the content data corresponding to the content distribution request is sent to the device 2. And to perform the processing to deliver the data.

  As described above, when the payment condition determination unit determines that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment condition when the content distribution request from the terminal device 2 is received, the control unit 113 completely distributes the content data. Providing the terminal device 2 that has transmitted the content distribution request to the terminal device 2 that has transmitted the content distribution request, by actively distributing the content availability period to the user who has transmitted the content distribution request. The user can be urged to pay an additional fee as a settlement process.

  Further, when generating settlement processing promotion content data, the control unit 113 functions as a first content generation unit and a second content generation unit described below.

(About the first content generation means)
When functioning as the first content generation means, the control unit 113 performs processing for generating only a part of the content data corresponding to the content distribution request as content data for promoting payment processing.

  In this way, by distributing to the terminal device 2 on the user side the settlement processing promotion content data that can be reproduced only by a portion generated by the first content generation means, the user wants to view the content throughout. . At this time, a message prompting the user to pay the fee is distributed so that the user can be actively encouraged to continue the content reproducible period.

(About the second content generation means)
In addition, when functioning as the second content generation unit, the control unit 113 performs a process of generating content data with degraded reproduction quality of content data corresponding to the content distribution request as content data for promoting settlement processing. Yes.

  In this way, by distributing the settlement processing promotion content data with the degraded reproduction quality generated by the second content generation means to the terminal device 2 on the user side, the user can obtain a higher quality regular content. I want to watch it. At this time, a message prompting the user to pay the fee is distributed so that the user can be actively encouraged to continue the content reproducible period.

Further, when the reproduction quality of the content data is deteriorated, the control unit 113 functions as three deterioration means, that is, a first deterioration means, a second deterioration means, and a progress deterioration means, which will be described below. Processing to generate settlement processing promotion content data is performed (about the first degradation means)
When functioning as the first deterioration means, the control unit 113 gradually increases the degree of deterioration in the reproduction quality of the content data in accordance with the elapsed time from the start of the distributable period stored in the distribution restriction storage means. I'm trying to do the right thing.

  This makes it possible for the user to recognize that the usable period has passed, and the time when the payment processing promotion content data cannot be reproduced is approaching due to the degree of degradation of the reproduction quality. Can be recognized. At this time, a message prompting the payment of the fee is distributed so that the continuation of the content availability period can be further actively promoted.

(About the second deterioration means)
In addition, when functioning as the second degradation means, the control unit 113 performs a process of gradually increasing the degree of degradation of the reproduction quality of the content data in accordance with an increase in the number of times the settlement processing promotion content data is distributed. I am doing so.

  This makes it possible for the user to recognize that the usable period has passed, and further, the number of times that the settlement processing promotion content data cannot be reproduced approaches due to the degree of degradation of the reproduction quality. Can be recognized. At this time, a message prompting the payment of the fee is distributed so that the continuation of the content availability period can be further actively promoted.

(About progress deterioration means)
In addition, when functioning as progress deterioration means, the control unit 113 performs processing that gradually increases the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality of the content data as the payment processing promotion content data reproduction progresses.

  This makes it possible for users to recognize that payment processing has not been performed during playback of payment processing promotion content data, and to deliver a message prompting the user to pay the fee so that the user can use the content. It encourages the continuation of the period and actively encourages payment processing.

(About content selection means)
The control unit 113 also functions as content selection means for arbitrarily selecting one type of payment processing promotion content data from among a plurality of types of payment processing content data generated by the above means.

  That is, the control unit 113 uses the trial version data stored in the related content storage unit, the settlement processing promotion content data generated by the first content generation unit, and the settlement processing promotion generated by the second content generation unit. Any one piece of content data is arbitrarily selected from the content data for use, and the selected content data is distributed to the terminal device 2 as payment processing promotion content data.

  In this way, the payment processing promotion content data arbitrarily selected from the plurality of types of payment processing promotion content data is distributed to the terminal device 2 and a message prompting the payment of the fee is distributed, so that the user's interest It is possible to proactively encourage the continuation of the content availability period.

[1.3. Configuration of terminal device]
Next, the configuration and operation of the terminal device 2 on the user side will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of the terminal device 2 in the first embodiment. The terminal device 2 is applicable to a general personal computer, and as shown in FIG. 3, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201 and a rewritable first storage unit 202 that stores (stores) various programs and the like. A second storage unit 203 composed of a hard disk device for storing various data, etc., and a network interface 204 for communicating with the content distribution device 1 and the payment management device 3 via the communication line 4 A remote controller 205 for transmitting and receiving a predetermined infrared signal for remote control of the terminal device 2 by a person, an infrared port 206 for communicating with the remote controller 205 by infrared rays, and a peripheral device control chip for controlling the infrared port 206 207 and image data received from the CPU 201 and written to the internal video memory (not shown) and written to this video memory A video chip 208 for displaying data on a display 209, which will be described later, a display 209 for performing display in accordance with a signal transmitted from the video chip 208, and a sound source chip having a sound source such as an FM sound source (Frequency Modulation) or a Wave Table sound source 210 and a speaker 211 that converts audio signals output from the sound source chip 210 into sound waves, and these various components are connected to each other via a system bus 212. In the present embodiment, the CPU 201 and the first storage unit 202 constitute a control unit 213. The network interface 204 is connected to the communication line 4 via the router 10b.

(About the first storage unit 202)
The first storage unit 202 also has an OS program 220 for providing basic functions of the terminal device 2 as a computer, and reception control for receiving content data distributed from the content distribution device 1. A program 221, a reproduction control program 222 for reproducing received content data, a screen control program 223 for controlling the display 209, and the like are stored. These are read by the CPU 201 and these programs are read by the CPU 201. The function according to is executed.

  Here, the OS program 220 is read out and executed by the CPU 201 to thereby execute a function related to input / output of the remote controller 205 and a terminal device such as a memory management unit such as the first storage unit 202 or the second storage unit 203. The basic functions of the computer 2 can be executed. Then, with the OS program 220 being executed by the CPU 201, the above-described reception control program 221, reproduction control program 222, screen control program 223, and the like are executed.

  The OS program 220, the reception control program 221, the playback control program 222, the screen control program 223, etc. may be downloaded to the first storage unit 202 from a server connected to the Internet, for example. After being recorded on a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, it may be read into the first storage unit 202 via a drive of the storage medium.

(About the control unit 213)
The control unit 213 includes the CPU 201 and the first storage unit 202 as described above, and the CPU 201 reads out and executes the various programs 220 to 223 stored in the first storage unit 202, whereby the terminal device 2 as a whole. It is to control the overall.

[1.4. Payment Management Device Configuration)
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the payment management apparatus 3 in the first embodiment. The payment management device 3 is applicable to a general server computer. As shown in FIG. 4, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 301 and a rewritable first storage unit 302 for storing (storing) various programs and the like. A second storage unit 303 composed of an HDD (Hard Disc Drive) or the like for storing various data, the content distribution device 1 or the terminal device 2 via the communication line 4, and a terminal of a financial institution (not shown) A network interface 304 that communicates with a device, a peripheral device control chip 307 that controls an input unit such as a keyboard 305 and a mouse 306 that can input predetermined information, and an image data received from the CPU 301 A video chip 308 for writing data to a memory (not shown) and displaying the data written to the video memory on a display 309 described later is provided. Various components of the al are connected to each other via a system bus 310. In the present embodiment, the CPU 301, the first storage unit 302, and the second storage unit 303 constitute a control unit 312. The network interface 304 is connected to the communication line 4 via the router 10c.

(Regarding the first storage unit 302)
The first storage unit 302 stores an OS program 320 for providing basic functions of the payment management apparatus 3 as a computer. The OS program is read by the CPU 301 and is read by the CPU 301. Functions according to these programs are executed.

  Here, the OS program 320 is read out and executed by the CPU 301, and functions related to input / output of the keyboard 305 and the mouse 306, memory management of the first storage unit 302, the second storage unit 303, and the like. The basic function of the computer which is the payment management apparatus 3 is made executable.

(About the second storage unit 303)
The second storage unit 303 stores information related to the settlement processing status including information regarding whether or not each user has paid a fee, information regarding the date and time when the user paid the fee, and the like. The information regarding the payment processing status is updated every time the payment processing status changes.

(About control unit 312)
As described above, the control unit 312 includes the CPU 301, the first storage unit 302, and the second storage unit 303. When the control unit 312 receives a request for information related to the payment processing status from the content distribution device 1, the control unit 312 receives the second storage unit 303. In addition to processing for transmitting information on the latest payment processing status from the content distribution device 1 to the content distribution device 1, the entire payment management device 3 such as communication processing performed with a terminal device of a financial institution for updating the payment processing status is performed. It is for overall control.

[1.5. Operation program for content distribution apparatus]
Here, an operation program of the content distribution apparatus 1 in the first embodiment will be described. The control unit 113 of the content distribution apparatus 1 performs control according to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 5 to 9 and FIGS. In the description of the operation program of the content distribution apparatus 1, the control unit 113 of the content distribution apparatus 1 is simply referred to as the control unit 113.

(Main process)
As shown in FIG. 5, in the main process, the control unit 113 starts the process when the power is turned on, determines whether or not an operation by the user of the content transmission device 1 has been performed (step S215), If it is determined that an operation by the user has been performed (step S215: Yes), the process proceeds to step S216. If it is determined that an operation by the user has not been performed (step S215: No), the process proceeds to step S217.

  In step S216, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the operation by the user is a power-off operation, and when it is determined that the operation is a power-off operation (step S216: Yes), a process of turning off the power (step S216) After performing S338), the main process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the control unit 113 determines that the operation by the user is not a power-off operation (step S216: No), the control unit 113 performs other processing (step S339) corresponding to the operation, and then performs the processing in step S215. Move to.

  In step S217, the control unit 113 functions as a distribution request receiving unit, determines whether or not a request command has been received, and if it is determined that the request command has been received (step S217: Yes), the process is performed in step S218. If it is determined that a request command has not been received (step S217: No), the process returns to step S215, and waits until the request command is received while the power is on.

  In step S218, the control unit 218 determines whether or not the received command is a content request command. If the control unit 218 determines that the received command is a content request command (step S218: Yes), the process proceeds to step S219. If it is determined that the command is not a content request command (step S218: No), the process proceeds to step S220, the process corresponding to the other request corresponding to the received command is performed, and then the process proceeds to step S215.

  Other request processing performed by the control unit 113 in step S220 includes, for example, requesting personal information such as the user's own address, name, phone number, and credit card number from the user who first transmitted the request command. When the personal information is received, the information is stored in the second storage unit 103 as the license information, and the license ID and password are transmitted to the terminal device 2 on the user side.

  When performing the processing of step S218, the control unit 113 refers to the second storage unit 103 at the same time, whether the user who transmitted the request command is the user who transmitted the request command for the first time, or It is determined whether the user has a history of transmitting a request command before and is a user requesting content distribution.

  In step S219, the control unit 113 performs the content transmission process shown in FIG. 6, and then moves the process to step S215.

(Content transmission processing)
This content transmission processing is processing performed in step S219 shown in FIG. 5, and is performed by the control unit 113 according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the content transmission process, the control unit 113 first functions as a payment process status acquisition unit to perform a payment process status acquisition process (step S221), and then moves the process to step S222.

  At this time, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the user who transmitted the request command to the payment management apparatus 3 is paying (payment for content use) and if the user is paying. Performs processing for requesting and receiving information regarding the payment date and time.

  In step S222, the control unit 113 functions as a payment condition determination unit, and determines whether or not the payment processing status of the user received from the payment management apparatus 3 satisfies the payment condition.

  At this time, the control unit 113 refers to the payment processing status acquired by the process of step S221, and adds the predetermined fee for the content requested by the user who transmitted the request command until the present time. No fee has been paid and is not currently within the content availability period corresponding to the first payment, or between the first payment of the specified fee for the content requested by the user who sent the request command to the present If an additional fee has been paid and it is determined that it is not currently within the content availability period corresponding to the paid additional fee, it is determined that the settlement condition is not satisfied. That is, it is determined whether or not the current date and time are included in the content availability period corresponding to the fee paid by the user.

  If it is determined that the settlement condition is satisfied (step S222: Yes), the process proceeds to step S227. If it is determined that the settlement condition is not satisfied (step S222: No), the process proceeds to step S223.

  In step S227, the control unit 113 finishes the content transmission process after performing the content data transmission process, and then moves the process to step S215 shown in FIG.

  In step S223, the control unit 113 performs the reproduction permission / inhibition determination process shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, and then moves the process to step S224.

  In step S224, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the regeneration impossible flag is set. This replay prohibition flag is set or canceled in a reproducibility determination process described later, and is set in a predetermined area in the second storage unit 103.

  When the control unit 113 determines that the regeneration disabled flag is set (step S224: Yes), the process proceeds to step S225, and when it is determined that the playback disabled flag is not set (step S224: No). Then, the process proceeds to step S226.

  In step S225, the control unit 113 transmits the non-playable information to the terminal device 2 on the user side, thereafter ends this content transmission process, and moves the process to step S215 shown in FIG.

  In step S226, the control unit 113 performs the viewing restriction process shown in FIG. 9 and then performs the process in step S227. After that, the content transmission process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S215 shown in FIG.

(Playability determination process)
This reproducibility determination process is a process performed in S223 shown in FIG. 6, and is performed by the control unit 113 according to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, in the reproduction permission / inhibition determination process, the control unit 113 performs processing for canceling the reproduction prohibition flag when the second storage unit 103 has the reproduction prohibition flag set ( Step S228), and then the process proceeds to Step S229.

  Here, the non-reproducible flag indicates whether or not the content data for settlement processing promotion is transmitted from the content distribution device 1 to the terminal device 2, and the state where the non-reproducible flag is set indicates the settlement processing promotion. The state where the transmission of the content data for use is prohibited is shown, and the state where the reproduction prohibition flag is released indicates the state where the content data for settlement processing promotion can be transmitted.

  In step S229, the control unit 113 performs a process of acquiring the reproducible postponement mode, and then moves the process to step S230.

  The content distribution apparatus 1 has three types of modes, ie, a period grace mode, a number grace mode within a period, and a number grace mode as reproducible grace modes.

  Here, the term postponement mode is set in advance for the longest period during which payment processing promotion content data can be distributed (hereinafter referred to as “MAX period”), and only for this MAX period. This is a reproducible postponement mode in which content data can be distributed to the terminal device 2.

  In addition, the number of times within the period is set to the maximum number of times that the settlement processing promotion content data can be distributed within the MAX period (hereinafter referred to as “MAX number”), and the MAX period within the MAX period. This is a reproducible postponement mode in which payment processing promoting content data can be distributed to the terminal device 2 only for the number of times.

  Further, the number-of-times grace mode is a reproducible grace mode in which payment processing promotion content data can be distributed to the terminal device 2 only for the maximum number of times.

  Then, the control unit 113 refers to the distribution restriction information stored in the second storage unit 103 and executes the reproduction restriction control program stored in the first storage unit 102, so that these three types Each reproducible grace mode is realized.

  In step S230, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the reproducible grace mode acquired in the process of step S229 is the period grace mode, and if it is determined that it is the period grace mode (step S230: Yes) The process proceeds to step S231, and if it is determined that the period is not the grace period mode (step S230: No), the process proceeds to step S237.

  In step S231, the control unit 113 acquires information about the MAX period, sets a as a variable indicating the MAX period in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 103, and then moves the process to step S232.

  In step S232, the control unit 113 sets b as a variable indicating the time that has elapsed since the start of the restriction, that is, the time from when the payment condition determination unit determines that the payment condition is not satisfied to when the request command is received. Is set in a predetermined area of the storage unit 103, and the process proceeds to step S233.

  In step S233, the control unit 113 compares the variable a with the variable b, and determines whether or not a> b. Here, when the control unit 113 determines that a> b is satisfied (step S233: Yes), the process proceeds to step S234 without setting the non-reproducible flag, and when it is determined that a> b is not satisfied (step S233). : No), a reproduction impossible flag is set in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 103 (step S235), and then the process proceeds to step S234.

  In step S234, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the elapsed time measurement after viewing restriction (update process of the variable b) is started, and determines that the update process of the variable b is not started (step S234). When the process of starting the update process of the variable b (step S236) is performed in S234: No), and this playability determination process is terminated, and it is determined that the update process of the variable b is started (step S234: Yes ), The reproduction permission / inhibition determination process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S224 shown in FIG.

  In step S237, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the reproducible grace mode acquired by the process of step S229 is the number of grace modes within the period, and determines that the number of grace modes within the period is the grace mode. If so (step S237: Yes), the process proceeds to step S238. If it is determined that the number of times within the period is not in the postponement mode (step S237: No), the process proceeds to step S245.

  In step S238, the control unit 113 acquires information about the MAX period, sets a as a variable indicating the MAX period in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 103, and then moves the process to step S239.

  In step S239, the control unit 113 sets b as a variable indicating the time that has elapsed since the start of the restriction, that is, the time from when the settlement condition determining unit determines that the settlement condition is not satisfied to when the request command is received. The predetermined area of the storage unit 103 is set, and the process proceeds to step S240.

  In step S240, the control unit 113 compares the variable a and the variable b, and determines whether or not a> b. Here, when the control unit 113 determines that a> b is satisfied (step S240: Yes), the process proceeds to step S241 without setting the regeneration disabled flag, and when it is determined that a> b is not satisfied (step S240). : No), a reproduction impossible flag is set in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 103 (step S244), and then the process proceeds to step S234.

  In step S241, the control unit 113 acquires information about the MAX number, sets c as a variable indicating the MAX number in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 103, and then moves the process to step S242.

  In step S242, the control unit 113 sets d in the predetermined area of the second storage unit 103 as a variable indicating the number of reproductions from the start of restriction, that is, a distribution number variable of the settlement processing promotion content data, and the process is performed in step S243. Move to.

  In step S243, the control unit 113 compares the variable c and the variable d, and determines whether c> d. Here, when the control unit 113 determines that c> d is satisfied (step S243: Yes), the process proceeds to step S234 without setting the regeneration disabled flag, and when it is determined that c> d is not satisfied (step S243). : No), a reproduction impossible flag is set in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 103 (step S244), and then the process proceeds to step S234.

  In step S245, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the reproducible grace mode acquired by the process of step S229 is the number of times grace mode, and determines that it is the number of times grace mode (step S245: Yes). The process moves to step S246, and if it is determined that the mode is not the number of times delay mode (step S245: No), the process moves to step S249.

  In step S249, the control unit 113 performs the process of setting the reproducible grace mode to the period grace mode, and then moves the process to step S230.

  In step S246, the control unit 113 acquires information about the MAX number, sets c as a variable indicating the MAX number in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 103, and then moves the process to step S247.

  In step S247, the control unit 113 sets d as a variable indicating the number of reproductions since the start of restriction, that is, the number of distributions of settlement processing promotion content data, in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 103, and the process proceeds to step S248. Transfer.

  In step S248, the control unit 113 compares the variable c and the variable d, and determines whether c> d. Here, when it is determined that c> d is satisfied (step S248: Yes), the control unit 113 ends this reproduction permission determination process without setting the reproduction permission flag, and the process is shown in FIG. Move on to step S224.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that c> d is not satisfied (step S248: No), the control unit 113 performs a process (step S250) of setting a non-reproducible flag in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 103, and then performs this reproduction The availability determination process is terminated, and then the process proceeds to step S224 shown in FIG.

(Viewing restriction processing)
This viewing restriction process is a process performed in step S226 shown in FIG. 6, and is performed by the control unit 113 according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the viewing restriction process, the control unit 113 performs a process of acquiring restriction mode information (step S251).

  Here, the content distribution apparatus 1 includes a plurality of types of restriction modes for restricting viewing of content data. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the restriction modes are roughly divided into trial versions. There are four types of modes: a mode, a constant deterioration mode, a fade-out mode, and a random mode. It should be noted that an operator operating this content distribution system S determines which restriction mode is selected from these restriction modes.

  Here, in the trial version mode, the control unit 113 functions as a content selection unit, selects the trial version data stored in the second storage unit 103 as the content data for settlement processing promotion, and the terminal device 2 is a restricted mode for distributing to 2.

  In addition, the constant deterioration mode is a function in which the control unit 113 functions as the first content generation unit or the second content generation unit and always performs a certain degree of reproduction restriction on the content data. This is a restriction mode in which the content data subjected to is distributed to the terminal device 2 as payment processing promoting content data.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the constant deterioration mode includes a sound quality deterioration mode and a partial deterioration mode. The sound quality deterioration mode is a mode for performing playback restriction that deteriorates the sound quality at the time of playback of content data. The partial deterioration mode is a mode in which reproduction restriction is performed so that only a part of content data can be reproduced.

  Furthermore, the sound quality degradation mode here includes a normal degradation mode and a progressive degradation mode. The normal degradation mode in the constant degradation mode is a settlement regardless of the reproduction period and the number of reproductions of the settlement processing promotion content data. This is a mode for restricting viewing so that the degradation level of the sound quality becomes the same level every time when the processing promotion content data is reproduced.

  On the other hand, the progressive deterioration mode in the constant deterioration mode means that the reproduction is always started from the deterioration level of the predetermined sound quality when the reproduction of the payment processing promotion content data is started regardless of the payment promotion content data reproduction period and the number of reproductions. This is a restriction mode in which the deterioration level of the sound quality is gradually increased as the playback time elapses while the payment promotion content data is being played back.

  The partial deterioration mode includes a predetermined time mode, a random playback mode, a prelude mode, a climax mode, and a pre-rust mode.

  The predetermined time mode in the constant deterioration mode is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing that enables reproduction of only a predetermined time portion from the beginning of the content data.

  The random playback mode is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing that enables playback of only a predetermined time portion from a predetermined start position randomly selected from the content data.

  The prelude mode is a mode for generating settlement processing promotion content data in which only the prelude portion of the content can be reproduced when the content to be distributed is a music piece, and the content to be distributed is a video (movie, drama). In this case, the settlement processing promoting content data is generated in which only the introductory portion of the content can be reproduced.

  Also, the climax mode is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing in which only the climax part of the content can be reproduced when the content to be delivered is a music piece, and the content to be delivered is a video (movie, drama). In some cases, content data for promoting payment processing is generated in which only the climax part of the content can be reproduced.

  Further, the pre-chase mode is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing that can be played back only before the chorus part of the content when the content to be delivered is a music piece. In this mode, content data for promoting settlement processing is generated so that only the part before the climax part of the content can be reproduced.

  In the fade-out mode, the control unit 113 functions as the first content generation unit or the second content generation unit, and any one of the first deterioration unit, the second deterioration unit, and the progress deterioration unit. A restriction mode in which the reproduction restriction that increases the degree of restriction level in stages is performed on the content data by functioning as a means, and the content data subjected to the reproduction restriction is distributed to the terminal device 2 as payment processing promoting content data That is.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the fade-out mode includes a sound quality deterioration mode and a partial deterioration mode. Further, the sound quality deterioration mode in the fade-out mode includes a normal deterioration mode and a progress deterioration mode.

  The normal deterioration mode in the fade-out mode is to play at a predetermined sound quality deterioration level during the reproduction of the settlement processing promotion content data, but the next time the settlement processing promotion content data is played back, This is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing that can be reproduced in a state where the degradation level of the sound quality is increased and the degradation level of the sound quality is maintained. Further, the progressive deterioration mode in the fade-out mode means that the deterioration level of the sound quality is gradually increased every time the processing time elapses during the reproduction of the settlement processing promotion content data, and the next settlement processing promotion content data is reproduced. In this case, it is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing that starts from a state in which the degradation level of sound quality is higher than that at the end of the previous playback.

  In addition, the predetermined time mode in the fade-out mode is a mode in which content data for promoting payment processing is generated so that only a predetermined time portion can be reproduced from the beginning of the content data. Is a mode for generating settlement processing content data having a playback time shorter than that of the previous playback.

  In addition, the random playback mode in the fade-out mode is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing that enables playback of only a predetermined time portion from a predetermined start position randomly selected from the content data. When the promotion content data is reproduced, it is a mode for generating settlement processing content data having a reproduction time shorter than that of the previous reproduction.

  In addition, the random mode means that the control unit 113 functions as a content selection unit, and arbitrarily selects one restriction mode from the above-described trial version mode, fade-out mode, and constant deterioration mode. This is a restriction mode in which content data for promoting settlement processing in the restriction mode is distributed to the terminal device 2, and in this random mode, any of a plurality of kinds of restriction methods and a plurality of kinds of restriction means to be described later is arbitrarily selected. The settlement processing promoting content data to be transmitted to the terminal device 2 is generated by the selected restriction method or arbitrarily selected restriction means.

  The control unit 113 reads out and executes the reproduction restriction control program 122 stored in the first storage unit 102, thereby realizing each of these four types of restriction modes.

  In step S252, the control unit 113 performs a process of analyzing the restriction mode acquired by the process of step S251, and then moves the process to step S253.

  In step S253, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the acquired restriction mode is the trial version mode, and when it is determined that the restriction mode is the trial version mode (step S254: Yes), the process proceeds to step S254. If it is determined that the trial version mode is not selected (step S254: No), the process proceeds to step S255.

  In step S254, the control unit 113 performs the process of using the content to be transmitted to the terminal device 2 as the trial version data, and then moves the process to step S342.

  In step S255, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the acquired restriction mode is a random mode. If the control unit 113 determines that the acquired restriction mode is a random mode (step S255: Yes), the control unit 113 moves the process to step S256 and is not in a random mode. Is determined (step S255: No), the process proceeds to step S257.

  In step S256, the control unit 113 performs the random mode restriction data creation process shown in FIG. 11, and then moves the process to step S342.

  In step S257, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the acquired restriction mode is the fade-out mode. If the control unit 113 determines that the acquired restriction mode is the fade-out mode (step S257: Yes), the process proceeds to step S258, and is not in the fade-out mode. Is determined (step S257: No), the process proceeds to step S259.

  In step S258, after performing the fade-out mode restriction data creation process shown in FIG. 12, the control unit 113 performs a process (S340) that sets the reproduction data as restriction data (content data for settlement processing promotion), and then the viewing restriction. The process ends and the process moves to step S227 shown in FIG.

  In step S259, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the acquired restriction mode is the constant deterioration mode. If it is determined that the acquired restriction mode is the constant deterioration mode, the process proceeds to step S260 in step S259: Yes. If it is determined that the mode is not selected, a process (S340) is performed in which the playback data is set to the restriction data (content data for promoting settlement processing) in step S259: No). Move to step S227 shown.

  In step S259, the answer is normally Yes, but step S259 may be No due to an error. If No in step S259, an error may be output to the user.

  The above steps are also performed at S275, S286, S288, S294, S312, S310, S316, S331, S336, S48, S87, S98, S135, S133, S141, S165, and S173. . If the answer is No in S286, the flow may be terminated instead of shifting to S282. If No in S98, the flow may be terminated instead of shifting to S94.

  In step S260, the control unit 113 performs the process after the constant degradation mode restriction data creation process shown in FIG. 13 is performed, and then performs the process (S340) of setting the reproduction data as restriction data (content data for settlement process promotion). Move on to step S341.

  In step S342, the control unit 113 performs processing for adding a viewing restriction comment indicating that the payment processing content data is restricted for viewing to the payment processing promotion content data generated in each restriction mode. .

  Specifically, when the payment processing content data is audio data, the audio data “This content is restricted to view” is added, and when the payment processing promotion content data is image data, Processing for adding character data “This content is restricted in viewing” is performed.

  Then, after performing the viewing restriction comment adding process (step S341), the control unit 113 ends the viewing restriction process and moves the process to step S227 shown in FIG.

(Random mode restriction data creation process)
This random mode restriction data creation processing is processing performed in step S256 shown in FIG. 9, and is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 11 by the control unit 113 functioning as content selection means.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in the random mode restriction data creation process, the control unit 113 performs a process of randomly selecting a restriction mode from a plurality of kinds of restriction modes (step S261), and then moves the process to step S262.

  In step S262, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the randomly selected control mode is a random mode. If the control unit 113 determines that the control mode is a random mode (step S262: Yes), the process proceeds to step S261. If it is determined that the mode is not set (step S262: No), the process proceeds to step S263.

  In step S263, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the selected restriction mode is the fade-out mode, and when it is determined that the selected restriction mode is the fade-out mode (step S263: Yes), the process proceeds to step S264, and is not in the fade-out mode. Is determined (step S263: No), the process proceeds to step S270.

  In step S264, the control unit 113 performs processing for updating the restriction mode to the acquired mode, then performs processing for randomly selecting a means from a plurality of types of restriction means (step S265), and then selects the restriction means. A process of updating to the limiting means is performed (step S266), and the process proceeds to step S267.

  Here, the content distribution apparatus 1 includes two types of limiting means, that is, a period limiting means and a frequency limiting means as limiting means.

  The term limit means here means that the control unit 113 functions as a first deterioration means, and the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality step by step according to the elapsed time from the start of the period during which payment processing promotion content data can be distributed. The process which raises is performed. Since the information indicating the distributable period needs to be stored for each user, the information is stored in the second storage unit 203 provided in the terminal device 2 of the user.

  The number limiting means is a function in which the control means 113 functions as a second deterioration means, and performs a process of gradually increasing the degree of deterioration in reproduction quality in accordance with an increase in the number of distributions of settlement processing promoting content data. Is. Since the information indicating the number of deliverable times needs to be stored for each user, the information is stored in the second storage unit 203 provided in the terminal device 2 of the user.

  In step S267, the control means 113 performs a process of randomly selecting a method from a plurality of types of restriction methods, then performs a process of updating to the selected restriction method (step S268), and then moves the process to step S269.

  Here, the content distribution apparatus 1 includes two types of restriction methods, a partial restriction method and a quality restriction method, as restriction methods.

  The partial restriction method referred to here is a method in which the control unit 113 functions as first content generation means to generate a part of content data as settlement processing promotion content data.

  The quality restriction method is a method in which the control unit 113 functions as a second content generation unit to generate content data with degraded reproduction quality of content data as settlement processing promotion content data. In the present embodiment, as a specific example of this quality restriction method, a sound quality restriction method that degrades the sound quality of content data is used as the quality restriction method.

  In step S269, the control unit 113 performs the fade-out mode restriction data creation process shown in FIG. 12, ends the random mode restriction data creation process, and moves the process to step S227 shown in FIG.

  In step S270, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the selected restriction mode is the constant deterioration mode. If it is determined that the selected restriction mode is the constant deterioration mode (step S270: Yes), the process proceeds to step S271. If it is determined that the mode is not the constant deterioration mode (step S270: No), the process proceeds to step S275.

  In step S271, the control unit 113 performs processing for updating the restriction mode to the acquired mode, then performs processing for randomly selecting a method from a plurality of types of restriction methods (step S272), and then selects the restriction method. A process for updating to the restriction method is performed (step S273), and the process proceeds to step S274.

  In step S274, the control unit 113 performs the constant deterioration mode restriction data creation process shown in FIG. 13, ends the random mode restriction data creation process, and moves the process to step S227 shown in FIG.

  Further, in step S275, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the selected restriction mode is the trial version mode. If it is determined that the selected restriction mode is the trial version mode (step S275: Yes), the processing is performed in step S276. If it is determined that the mode is not the trial version mode (step S275: No), the random mode restriction data creation process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

  In step S276, the control unit 113 performs a process of updating the restricted mode to the acquired mode, then performs a process of using the content to be transmitted to the terminal device 2 as trial version data (step S277), and then the random mode. The restriction data creation process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

(Fade-out mode restriction data creation process)
This fade-out mode restriction data creation processing is processing performed in step S258 shown in FIG. 9 and step S269 shown in FIG. 11, and is executed by the control unit 113 in accordance with the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 12, in the fade-out mode restriction data creation process, the control unit 113 performs a process (step S278) of obtaining information on the restriction means, and then analyzes the restriction means from the obtained information on the restriction means (step S278). Step S279) is performed, and then the process proceeds to step S280.

  In step S280, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the limiting unit is the number limiting unit as a result of the analysis in step S279. If the control unit 113 determines that the limiting unit is the number limiting unit (step S280: Yes), the process proceeds to step S280. The process proceeds to S281, and if it is determined that the number-of-times restriction means is not used (step S280: No), the process proceeds to step S286.

  In step S281, the control unit 113 functions as the second deterioration means, performs the number limiting process shown in FIG. 14, and then moves the process to step S282.

  In step S286, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the limiting unit is a period limiting unit. If the control unit 113 determines that the limiting unit is a period limiting unit (step S286: Yes), the process proceeds to step S287. If it is determined that the limit is not reached (step S286: No), the process proceeds to step S282.

  In step S287, the control unit 113 functions as the second deterioration means, performs the period limiting process shown in FIG. 15, and then moves the process to step S282.

  In step S282, the control unit 113 performs processing for acquiring information related to the limiting method, performs processing for analyzing the acquired limiting method (step S283), and then moves the processing to step S284.

  In step S284, as a result of the analysis in step S283, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the restriction method is a sound quality restriction method. If the control unit 113 determines that the restriction method is a sound quality restriction method (step S284: Yes), the process proceeds to step S284. The process moves to S285, and if it is determined that the method is not the sound quality restriction method (step S284: No), the process moves to step S288.

  In step S285, the control unit 113 performs the sound quality restriction process shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, ends the fade-out mode restriction data creation process, and moves the process to step S227 shown in FIG.

  In step S288, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the restriction method is a partial restriction method. If it is determined that the restriction method is a partial restriction method (step S288: Yes), the process proceeds to step S289. If it is determined that the method is not the restriction method (step S288: No), the fade-out mode restriction data creation process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

  In step S289, the control unit 113 performs the partial restriction process shown in FIG. 18, ends the fade-out mode restriction data creation process, and moves the process to step S227 shown in FIG.

(Constant degradation mode restriction data creation process)
This constant deterioration mode restriction data creation processing is processing performed in step S260 shown in FIG. 9 and step S274 shown in FIG. 11, and is performed by the control unit 113 according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13, in the constant deterioration mode restriction data creation process, the control unit 113 performs a process of acquiring information on the restriction method (step S290), and then performs a process of analyzing the obtained restriction method (step S291). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S292.

  In step S292, the control unit 113 determines whether the restriction method is a sound quality restriction method as a result of the analysis in step S291. If the control unit 113 determines that the restriction method is a sound quality restriction method (step S292: Yes), the process proceeds to step S292. The process moves to S293, and if it is determined that the method is not the sound quality restriction method (step S292: No), the process moves to step S294.

  In step S293, the control unit 113 performs the sound quality restriction process shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, ends the constant deterioration mode restriction data creation process, and moves the process to step S227 shown in FIG.

  In step S294, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the restriction method is a partial restriction method. If the control unit 113 determines that the restriction method is a partial restriction method (step S294: Yes), the process proceeds to step S295. If it is determined that the method is not the restriction method (step S294: No), the constant deterioration mode restriction data creation process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

  In step S295, after performing the partial restriction process shown in FIG. 18, the control unit 113 ends the constant deterioration mode restriction data creation process, and moves the process to step S227 shown in FIG.

(Number limit processing)
This number limiting process is a process performed at step S281 shown in FIG. 12, and is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 14, in the number limiting process, the control unit 113 performs a process (step S298) of obtaining the number of times required for level UP and setting a variable to f, and then moves the process to step S299. That is, the control unit 113 acquires the number of distributions of the settlement processing promotion content data necessary to increase the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality of the content data, and sets the variable f indicating the acquired number of distributions to the second storage unit 103. After performing the process of setting within the predetermined area, the process proceeds to step S299.

  In step S299, the control unit 113 divides the variable d set in step S247 shown in FIG. 7 and the variable d set in step S242 shown in FIG. 8 by the variable f set in step S298, and sets the result as a restriction level. After that, the number limiting process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S282 shown in FIG.

(Period restriction processing)
This period limiting process is a process performed in step S287 shown in FIG. 12, and is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 15, with the control unit 113 functioning as the first deterioration means.

  As shown in FIG. 15, in the period limiting process, the control unit 113 performs a process (step S296) of acquiring a period necessary for level UP and setting a variable to e, and then moves the process to step S297. That is, the control unit 113 acquires the distribution period of the settlement processing promotion content data necessary for increasing the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality of the content data, and sets the variable e indicating the acquired distribution period to the second storage unit 103. After performing the process of setting within the predetermined area, the process proceeds to step S297.

  In step S297, the control unit 113 performs a process of dividing the variable b set in step S232 and step S239 shown in FIG. 7 by the variable e set in step S296, and setting the result as a restriction level, The number limiting process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S282 shown in FIG.

(Sound quality restriction processing)
This sound quality limiting process is a process performed in step S285 shown in FIG. 12 and step S293 shown in FIG. 13, and the control unit 113 functions as a second content generation unit, and follows the flowcharts shown in FIGS. Is what you do.

  As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, in the sound quality restriction process, the control unit 113 performs a process of acquiring the sound quality restriction mode (step S300), and then performs a process of analyzing the acquired sound quality restriction mode (step S301). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S302.

  In step S302, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the sound quality restriction mode is the progress deterioration mode as a result of the analysis in step S301. If the control unit 113 determines that the sound quality restriction mode is the progress deterioration mode (step S302: Yes), the process is performed. The process proceeds to step S303, and if it is determined that the mode is not the progressive deterioration mode (step S302: No), the process proceeds to step S312.

  The progress deterioration mode here is a mode in which the sound quality deterioration level of the content is gradually increased as the playback time advances during the playback of the content.

  In step S303, the control unit 113 acquires the deterioration level UP interval information, and then moves the process to step 304. At this time, the control unit 113 functions as a progress deterioration unit, and performs setting so as to increase the sound quality deterioration level every time 30 seconds elapses during the reproduction of the settlement processing promotion content data.

  In step S304, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the fade-out mode in the progress deterioration mode, and if it is determined that the fade-out mode is selected (step S304: Yes), the process proceeds to step S305. If it is determined (step S304: No), the process proceeds to step S310.

  In step S305, the control unit 113 performs the process of setting the deterioration level set in the fade-out mode process as an initial value and setting the value as the sound quality deterioration level, and then moves the process to step S306. That is, the control unit 113 performs the process of step S306 after performing the process of setting the sound quality deterioration level at the end of the previous payment process promoting content data reproduction as the initial deterioration level.

  In step S310, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the constant deterioration mode in the progressive deterioration mode. If the control unit 113 determines that it is in the constant deterioration mode (step S310: Yes), the process proceeds to step S311. If it is determined that the mode is not selected (step S310: No), the sound quality restriction process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

  In step S311, the control unit 113 sets the initial value to 0 and sets the value as the sound quality deterioration level. That is, the control unit 113 performs processing for setting the content data without sound quality degradation for the first 30 seconds when the settlement processing promotion content data is reproduced next time.

  In step S306, the control unit 311 performs sound quality deterioration processing corresponding to the deterioration level on the data corresponding to the deterioration level UP, and then moves the processing to step S307. That is, in step S306, the control unit 113 performs the sound quality deterioration process on the content data so that the sound quality deterioration level is higher than the sound quality deterioration level at the end of the reproduction of the settlement processing promotion data distributed last time. Yes.

  In step S307, the control unit 113 performs a process of updating the total time of the data subjected to the sound quality deterioration process, and then moves the process to step S308.

  In step S308, the control unit 113 performs a process of comparing the sound quality deterioration processed time with the total time of the settlement processing promoting content data.

  Here, when the control unit 113 determines that the sound quality deterioration processed time is equal to or longer than the total time of the settlement processing promoting content data (step S308: Yes), that is, the sound quality degradation processing is performed on the entire settlement promoting content data. If it is determined that the sound quality has been completed, the sound quality restriction process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the sound quality deterioration processing completed time is less than the total time of the settlement processing promoting content data (step S308: No), that is, the sound quality degradation processing for the entire settlement processing promoting content data is not completed. If it is determined, the process proceeds to step S309 to perform a process of incrementing the sound quality deterioration level, and then the process proceeds to step S306.

  In this way, payment processing promoting content data in which the degree of deterioration in sound quality increases every time the degradation level UP interval (30 seconds) is reproduced is generated.

  In step S312, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the sound quality restriction mode is the normal deterioration mode. If it is determined that the sound quality restriction mode is the normal deterioration mode (step S312: Yes), the process proceeds to step S313. If it is determined that the mode is not the normal deterioration mode (step S312: No), the sound quality restriction process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

  Here, the normal deterioration mode is a mode in which a constant sound quality deterioration level is maintained from the start of reproduction of content to the end of reproduction.

  In step S313, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the fade-out mode is in the normal deterioration mode. If the control unit 113 determines that the fade-out mode is selected (step S313: Yes), the process proceeds to step S314. If it is determined (step S313: No), the process proceeds to step S316.

  In step S314, the control unit 113 sets the deterioration level set in the fade-out mode process as an initial value, sets the value as the sound quality deterioration level, and then moves the process to step S315. That is, the control unit 113 performs the process of step S315 after performing the process of setting the sound quality deterioration level at the end of the previous payment process promotion content data reproduction as the initial deterioration level.

  Further, in step S316, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the constant deterioration mode in the normal deterioration mode, and when it is determined that it is the constant deterioration mode, the process proceeds to step S317 and is determined not to be the constant deterioration mode. In such a case, the sound quality restriction process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

  In step S317, the control unit 113 performs a process of setting the sound quality deterioration level to a default value, and then moves the process to step S315.

  In step S315, the control unit 113 performs the sound quality deterioration process at the sound quality deterioration level set in step S314 or step S317 on the entire settlement processing promotion content data, and then ends this sound quality restriction process and performs the processing. Is moved to step S227 shown in FIG.

(Partial restriction processing)
This partial restriction process is a process performed in step S289 shown in FIG. 12 and step S295 shown in FIG. 13. The control unit 113 functions as a first content generation unit and is executed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. is there.

  As shown in FIG. 18, in the partial restriction process, the control unit 113 performs a process of acquiring the partial restriction mode (step S318), then performs a process of analyzing the acquired partial restriction mode (step S319), and then The process moves to step S320.

  In step S320, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the partial restriction mode is the predetermined time mode as a result of the analysis in step S319. If the control unit 113 determines that the partial time mode is the predetermined time mode (step S3210: Yes), the process is performed. The process proceeds to step S321, and if it is determined that the mode is not the predetermined time mode (step S320: No), the process proceeds to step S323.

  Here, the predetermined time mode is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing in which only a predetermined time portion can be reproduced from the beginning of the content data.

  In step S321, after performing the reproduction time acquisition process shown in FIG. 19, the control unit 113 performs a process of generating payment processing promotion content data for a preset reproduction time from the beginning of the payment content data (step S322). Thereafter, the partial restriction process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

  Further, in step S323, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the partial restriction mode is the random playback mode, and when it is determined that the partial playback mode is the random playback mode (step S323: Yes), the process proceeds to step S324, If it is determined that the mode is not the random playback mode (step S323: Yes), the process proceeds to step S327.

  Here, the random playback mode is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing that enables playback of only a predetermined time portion from a predetermined start position randomly selected from the content data.

  In step S324, after performing the reproduction time acquisition process shown in FIG. 19, the control unit 113 performs a process (step S325) of randomly acquiring the reproduction start position of the content data, and subsequently, the reproduction start acquired in step S325. Processing for generating settlement processing promotion content data for a predetermined time set in advance from the position is performed (step S326). Thereafter, the partial restriction processing is terminated, and the processing proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

  In step S327, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the partial restriction mode is the prelude mode. If it is determined that the prelude mode is the prelude mode (step S327: Yes), the process proceeds to step S328. If it is determined that this is not the case (step S327: No), the process proceeds to step S329.

  Here, the prelude mode is a mode in which, when the content to be distributed is a music piece, content data for promoting settlement processing that can reproduce only the prelude portion of the content is generated, and the content to be distributed is a video (movie, drama). ) Is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing in which only the introductory part of the content can be reproduced.

  In step S328, the control unit 113 performs the process of creating the prelude data from the content data, thereafter ends this partial restriction process, and moves the process to step S227 shown in FIG.

  Further, in step S329, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the partial restriction mode is the chorus mode. If it is determined that the partial choke mode is the chorus mode (step S329: Yes), the process proceeds to step S330, and is determined not to be the chorus mode. If so (step S329: No), the process proceeds to step S331.

  The chorus mode here is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing in which only the chorus part of the content can be played when the content to be delivered is a music piece, and the content to be delivered is a video (movie, drama). In this case, the payment processing promotion content data is generated in which only the climax part of the content can be reproduced.

  In step S330, the control unit 113 performs a process of creating chorus data from the content data, and thereafter ends this partial restriction process and moves the process to step S227 shown in FIG.

  Further, in step S331, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the partial restriction mode is the pre-rust mode. If it is determined that the partial restriction mode is the pre-rust mode (step S331: Yes), the process proceeds to step S332. If it is determined that the mode is not the pre-rust mode (step S331: No), the partial restriction process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S227 shown in FIG.

  Here, the pre-chase mode is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing that can be played only before the chorus part of the content when the content to be delivered is a music piece. In the case of (movie, drama), this is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing that allows playback only up to the climax part of the content.

  In step S332, the control unit 113 performs a process of creating data from the beginning of the content to before the start of the chorus, ends the partial restriction process, and moves the process to step S227 shown in FIG.

(Playback time acquisition process)
This reproduction time acquisition process is a process performed in steps S321 and S324 shown in FIG. 18, and is performed by the control unit 113 according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 19, in the playback time acquisition process, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the fade-out mode is in the partial restriction mode (step S333), and determines that it is the fade-out mode (step S333: Yes) ), The process proceeds to step S334, and if it is determined that the mode is not the fade-out mode (step S333: No), the process proceeds to step S336.

  Here, the fade-out mode is a mode in which the reproducible portion of the payment processing promoting content data is shortened step by step in accordance with the time after the start of the payment processing promoting content data reproducible period.

  In step S334, the control unit 113 performs processing for setting the restriction level to the partial restriction level by setting in the fade-out mode restriction data creation processing, and then moves the processing to step S335.

  Further, in step S336, the control unit 113 determines whether or not the constant deterioration mode in the partial restriction mode, and if it is determined that it is the constant deterioration mode (step S336: Yes), the process proceeds to step S337. If it is determined that the mode is not the constant deterioration mode (step S336: No), the process proceeds to step S335.

  Here, the constant deterioration mode is a mode in which the reproducible time of the settlement processing promoting content data is made constant regardless of the time after the reproducible period of the settlement processing promoting content data is started.

  In step S337, the control unit 113 performs the process of setting the partial restriction level to the default, and then moves the process to step S335.

  In step S335, the control unit 113 acquires the reproducible time of the settlement processing promotion content data from the partial restriction level, and then ends the replay time acquisition processing and proceeds to S322 shown in FIG. 18 or step S325. Transfer.

[1.6. Terminal device operation program]
Next, an operation program of the terminal device 2 in the first embodiment will be described. The control unit 213 of the terminal device 2 performs control according to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In the description of the operation program 2 of the terminal device 2, the terminal device 2 control unit 213 is simply referred to as the control unit 213.

(Main process)
In this main process, the control unit 213 starts the process when the power is turned on, determines whether or not an operation by the user of the terminal device 2 has been performed (step S201), and the operation by the user is performed. If it is determined that the user has not performed an operation (step S201: No), the process returns to step S201.

  In step S202, the control unit 213 determines whether or not the operation by the user is a power-off operation. If it is determined that the operation is a power-off operation (step S202: Yes), a process of turning off the power (step S202). After performing S206), the main process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the control unit 213 determines that the operation by the user is not a power-off operation (step S202: No), the process proceeds to step S203.

  In step S203, the control unit 213 determines whether or not the user operation is an operation for performing a content request to the content distribution device 1 and a content reproduction, and determines that the operation is a content request and a content reproduction operation. If this is the case (step S203: Yes), the process proceeds to step S204, and if it is determined that the operation is not an operation for requesting and reproducing a content (step S203: No), the process proceeds to step S205.

  In step S204, the control unit 213 performs the content request and content reproduction process shown in FIG. 21, and then returns the process to step S201.

  In step S205, the control unit 213 performs other request processing corresponding to the user operation, and then returns the processing to step S201.

(Content request and content playback processing)
This content request and content reproduction processing is performed in step S204 shown in FIG. 20, and is performed by the control unit 213 according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In the content request and content reproduction process, the control unit 213 performs the timer setting process (step S209), and then moves the process to step S210.

  In the timer setting process (step S209) performed at this time, the control unit 213 performs a process of starting the time measurement by the timer for 3 minutes from the time when the user operation for requesting the content to the content distribution apparatus 1 is detected.

  In step S210, the control unit 213 determines whether or not communication with the content distribution apparatus 1 is possible. If it is determined that communication is possible, the control unit 213 proceeds to step S211 and determines that communication is not possible. If so, the process moves to step S208.

  In step S211, the control unit 213 performs a process of transmitting a request command to the content distribution apparatus 1, performs a process of acquiring content data from the content distribution apparatus 1, and then moves the process to step S212.

  In step S212, the control unit 213 determines whether or not the content data has been acquired. If it is determined that the content data has been acquired, the control unit 213 proceeds to step S213. If it is determined that the content data has not been acquired, the control unit 213 proceeds to step S208.

  In step S213, the control unit 213 performs processing for reproducing the content data acquired from the content distribution device 1, and then releases the timer set in step S209 (step S214), and ends the content request and content reproduction processing. Then, the process proceeds to step S201 shown in FIG.

  In step S208, the control unit 213 determines whether or not it is a time limit. If it is determined that the time limit is reached, the control unit 213 moves the process to step S214. If it is determined that the time limit is not reached, the process proceeds to step S210. Move to.

  That is, when it is determined that the time measured by the timer has exceeded 3 minutes, the control unit 213 ends the time measurement by the timer, and when it is determined that the time has not exceeded 3 minutes, the control unit 213 performs the processing in steps S210 to S212. I try to do it repeatedly.

[2. Second Embodiment]
[2.1. Outline of Content Distribution System to which Terminal Device of Second Embodiment is Applied]
Next, an outline of a content distribution system to which the terminal device according to the second embodiment is applied will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 22, this content distribution system Sa is based on a content distribution request from a terminal device 2a operated by a user, and the content distribution device 1a on the content distributor side distributes content data such as video and music. And the terminal device 2a on the user side that receives and reproduces the content data distributed from the content distribution device 1a, the payment processing status of the fee that the user pays to the content distribution company to use the content, etc. And a payment management device 3a for managing

  The content distribution device 1a, the terminal device 2a, and the fee management device 3a are connected to each other via a communication line 4a such as the Internet.

  Then, the content distribution system Sa confirms that the content distribution device 1a transmits the content data to the terminal device 2a and the terminal device 2a has paid the fee corresponding to the content desired by the user of the terminal device 2a. In this system, playback is permitted only during a period corresponding to the paid fee, and the content is lent to the user from the content distributor.

  Specifically, the user accesses a content distribution site operated by a content distributor and selects desired content.

  Here, when the user uses this content distribution site for the first time, first, personal information such as the user's own address, name, telephone number, and credit card number is transmitted to the payment management apparatus 3a.

  Upon receipt of this personal information, the payment management device 3a records the received personal information and as a license for using the content distribution site for the terminal device 2a on the user side that has transmitted the personal information. Send ID and password.

  Then, the user who has received the ID and the content reproduction program by the terminal device 2a selects the desired content from a plurality of types of content posted on the content distribution site by operating the terminal device 2a. Received content data.

  Thereafter, when the user operates the terminal device 2a to reproduce the received content data, the terminal device 2a first transmits information related to the license of the user to the payment management device 3a according to the content reproduction program. As a result, the user requests and receives the payment processing status of the user corresponding to this license.

  The payment processing status here refers to information on whether or not a predetermined fee has been withdrawn from the user's account corresponding to the license and transferred to the content distributor's account, and the date and time when these withdrawals and transfers were made. Information.

  The terminal device 2a is configured to reproduce the content data only during a period corresponding to the paid fee after confirming that the fee has been paid by the user based on the settlement processing status. In this way, the content is lent out to the user.

  Further, in this content distribution system Sa, even after the content reproducible period corresponding to the fee paid by the user ends, the user pays an additional fee to the content distributor, The content reproducible period can be continued for the period corresponding to the additional fee.

  Hereinafter, the content distribution device 1a, the terminal device 2a, and the payment management device 3a constituting the content distribution system Sa will be specifically described.

[2.2.1. Configuration of content distribution apparatus]
FIG. 23 is a functional block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the content distribution apparatus 1a in the second embodiment. The content distribution apparatus 1a is applicable to a general server computer, and as shown in FIG. 23, includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101a and a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores (stores) various programs. A first storage unit 102a, a second storage unit 103a composed of a hard disk device for storing various data, etc., a terminal device 2a on the user side, and a payment management device 3a via a communication line 4a A network interface 104a that communicates with each other, a peripheral device control chip 107a that controls an input unit such as a keyboard 105a or a mouse 106a capable of inputting predetermined information, and an image data received from the CPU 101a, and an internal video memory (FIG. (Not shown) and a video chip 108a for displaying data written in the video memory on a display 109a described later, and a video chip 108a Display 109a that performs display according to a signal transmitted from the sound source, a sound source chip 110a having a sound source such as an FM sound source (Frequency Modulation) or a Wave Table sound source, and a speaker that converts an audio signal output from the sound source chip 110a into a sound wave 111a. These various components are connected to each other via a system bus 112a. In the present embodiment, the CPU 101a and the first storage unit 102a constitute the control unit 113a. The network interface 104a is connected to the communication line 4a via the router 10A.

(About the first storage unit 102a)
Further, the first storage unit 102a has an OS (operating system) program 120a for providing basic functions as a computer of the content distribution apparatus 1a, and content data stored in the second storage unit 103a. Is stored, and a screen control program 122a for controlling the display 109a is read out by the CPU 101a, and the CPU 101a follows these programs. The function is executed.

  Here, the OS program 120a is read and executed by the CPU 101a, so that functions relating to input / output of the keyboard 105a and the mouse 106a, memory management of the first storage unit 102a, the second storage unit 103a, and the like are performed. The basic function of the computer which is the content distribution apparatus 1a can be executed. Then, with the OS program 120a being executed by the CPU 101a, the above-described distribution control program 121a, screen control program 122a, etc. are executed.

  Note that the OS program 120a, the distribution control program 121a, the screen control program 122a, and the like may be downloaded to the first storage unit 102a from, for example, a server connected to the communication line 4a, or a CD-ROM. It may be recorded in the storage medium such as the first storage unit 102a via the drive of the storage medium.

(About the second storage unit 103a)
The second storage unit 103a stores content data including a plurality of types of video data and music data to be transmitted to the terminal device 2a on the user side, and functions as a content data storage unit. Although it is a content related to the content of the content data, it stores trial version data different from the content data and functions as a related content data storage means.

  Further, the second storage unit 103a stores information regarding the license of each user who has transmitted the content distribution request, and also functions as a license information storage unit.

(About the control unit 113a)
As described above, the control unit 113a includes the CPU 101a and the first storage unit 102a, and the CPU 101a reads out and executes the various programs 120a to 122a stored in the first storage unit 102a, whereby the content distribution apparatus The overall control of 1a is controlled.

[2.3. Configuration of terminal device]
Next, the configuration and operation of the terminal device 2a on the user side will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 24 is a functional block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of the terminal device 2a according to the second embodiment. The terminal device 2a is applicable to a general personal computer, and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201a and a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores (stores) various programs as shown in FIG. Communication between the first storage unit 202a, the second storage unit 203a composed of a hard disk device or the like for storing various data, and the content distribution device 1a or the payment management device 3a via the communication line 4a A network interface 204a for performing remote control, a remote controller 205a for transmitting and receiving a predetermined infrared signal for a user to remotely operate the terminal device 2a, an infrared port 206a for communicating with the remote control 205a by infrared, and an infrared port Receives image data from the peripheral device control chip 207a for controlling 206a and the CPU 201a and writes it to an internal video memory (not shown) Both the video chip 208a for displaying the data written in the video memory on the display 209a (to be described later), the display 209a for displaying in accordance with the signal transmitted from the video chip 208a, the FM sound source (Frequency Modulation), the Wave Table sound source, etc. The sound source chip 210a having the sound source and the speaker 211a for converting the audio signal output from the sound source chip 210a into sound waves, and these various components are connected to each other via the system bus 212a. . In the present embodiment, the CPU 201a, the first storage unit 202a, and the second storage unit 203a constitute the control unit 213a. The network interface 204a is connected to the communication line 4a via the router 10B.

(About the first storage unit 202a)
The first storage unit 202a also has an OS program 220a for providing basic functions as a computer of the terminal device 2a and reception control for receiving content data distributed from the content distribution device 1a. A program 221a, a reproduction control program 222a for reproducing the received content data, a screen control program 223a for controlling the display 209a, etc. are stored. These are read by the CPU 201a, and these programs are read by the CPU 201a. The function according to is executed.

  Here, the OS program 220a is read and executed by the CPU 201a, so that terminal devices such as functions related to input / output of the remote controller 205a and memory management of the first storage unit 202a and the second storage unit 203a, etc. The basic function of the computer 2a can be executed. Then, with the OS program 220a being executed by the CPU 201a, the above-described reception control program 221a, reproduction control program 222a, screen control program 223a, etc. are executed.

  Note that the OS program 220a, the reception control program 221a, the reproduction control program 222a, the screen control program 223a, and the like may be downloaded to the first storage unit 202a from, for example, a server connected to the Internet. It may be recorded in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM and then read into the first storage unit 202a via a drive of the storage medium.

(About the second storage unit 203a)
The second storage unit 203a can store the ID received from the content distribution apparatus 1a, the information related to the license for the user to play back the content data, and the payment conditions for the license in association with each other. It functions as a means.

  The settlement conditions here indicate the following two conditions.

  Settlement condition 1: The user who sent the content distribution request has not paid an additional fee for the content requested by the user for the first time until the present, and the content corresponding to the first payment is now available The condition that it is within the period.

  Settlement condition 2: An additional fee has been paid between the first payment of the predetermined fee for the content requested by the user who sent the content distribution request and the content corresponding to the additional fee paid can be used now The condition that it is within the period.

  The second storage unit 203a can store the content data received from the content distribution apparatus 1a, and functions as a content data storage unit, and also stores the trial version data received from the content distribution apparatus 1a. It can also function as related data storage means.

  Further, the second storage unit 203a can store a content reproduction program downloaded from the content distribution apparatus 1a.

  In particular, this content reproduction program is referred to by the CPU 201a when reproducing the content data received from the content distribution apparatus 1a. Specifically, the user's payment processing status satisfies the payment conditions described later. A payment condition determination control program for determining whether or not there is a reproduction for restricting reproduction of the content data when the payment condition determination means described later determines that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment condition Includes restricted programs.

  In addition, the second storage unit 203a can store reproduction restriction information indicating the reproduction possible period and the number of reproductions of the content data and the trial version data subjected to reproduction restriction, and also functions as a reproduction restriction storage unit. To do.

(About the control unit 213a)
As described above, the control unit 213a includes the CPU 201a, the first storage unit 202a, and the second storage unit 203a. The CPU 201 stores various programs 220a to 223a stored in the first storage unit 202a, and the second storage unit 202a. By reading out and executing the content reproduction program stored in the storage unit 203a, the terminal device 2a is controlled overall, and content acquisition means, reproduction means, payment processing status acquisition means, payment condition determination means, which will be described later, Function as playback restriction means, first playback restriction means, related content request means, second playback restriction means, third playback restriction means, content selection means, first degradation means, second degradation means, progress degradation means Yes.

(About content acquisition means)
That is, the control unit 213a of the terminal device 2a (hereinafter also simply referred to as “control unit 213a”) functions as a content acquisition unit to receive content data from the content distribution device 1a and to receive the received content data. The process which memorize | stores in 2 memory | storage parts 203a is performed.

(About playback means)
In addition, the control unit 213a functions as a reproduction unit, and executes the reproduction control program 222a stored in the first storage unit 202a, thereby reproducing the content data stored in the second storage unit 203a. I do.

(About payment processing status acquisition means)
In addition, the control unit 213a functions as a payment processing status acquisition unit, and performs a process of acquiring the payment processing status for the user's license based on information related to the license.

  That is, when reproducing the content data stored in the second storage unit 203a, the control unit 213a transmits the user's license (ID) to the payment management device 3a, thereby using the ID corresponding to this ID. The processing of requesting and receiving the payment processing status of the person is performed.

  The payment processing status received at this time includes information on whether or not the user who has tried to reproduce the content data has paid a predetermined fee for the requested content, and the date and time when the user paid the predetermined fee It is the information which shows the information regarding.

(About payment condition judgment means)
In addition, when receiving the payment processing status of the user, the control unit 213a functions as a payment condition determination unit, and performs a process of determining whether or not the acquired payment processing status of the user satisfies the payment condition.

(About playback restriction means)
Further, when the control unit 213a functions as a payment condition determination unit, when it is determined that the user's payment processing status does not satisfy the payment processing condition, that is, for the content requested by the user who transmitted the content distribution request. No additional fee has been paid between the initial payment of the specified fee and the present, and it is not currently within the content availability period corresponding to the first payment, or requested by the user who sent the content distribution request Functions as a playback restricting unit when it is determined that it is not within the content availability period corresponding to the paid additional fee, since the additional fee has been paid between the first payment of the predetermined fee for the content and the present. .

  At this time, the control unit 213a performs playback restriction on the content data received from the content distribution apparatus 1a, and then functions as a playback unit to play back the content data subjected to playback restriction.

  As described above, when it is determined by the payment condition determination means that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment condition, the control unit 113 does not completely prohibit the reproduction of the content data, but the reproduction restricted content data. By playing the content, the user can be actively encouraged to extend the usage period of the content, and the user can be prompted to pay an additional fee, which is a settlement process.

(About the first reproduction limiting means)
Further, the control unit 213a functions as a first reproduction restriction unit when reproducing the content data subjected to reproduction restriction, and based on the reproduction restriction information stored in the second storage unit 203a. When the reproducible period of content data or trial version data that has been subjected to
When the number of times that the reproduction-restricted content data or trial version data can be reproduced has been exceeded, a process for prohibiting the reproduction of the content data or trial version data subjected to the reproduction restriction is performed.

  The control unit 113 also functions as a second reproduction restriction unit and a third reproduction restriction unit, which will be described below, when functioning as a reproduction restriction unit to restrict reproduction of content data.

(About the second playback restriction means)
When functioning as the second playback restricting means, the control unit 213a plays back only part of the content data received from the content distribution device 1a by executing the content playback program stored in the second storage unit 203a. The process is limited to a possible limit.

  In this way, by reproducing the content data that has been restricted by the second reproduction restriction means to the user, the user wants to view the content throughout, so that the user can reproduce the content. We are actively promoting the continuation of the period.

(About the third playback restriction means)
In addition, when functioning as the third playback restricting unit, the control unit 213a executes the content playback program stored in the second storage unit 203a, thereby setting the playback quality of the content data received from the content distribution device 1a. A process of deteriorating is performed.

  In this way, by playing back the content data subjected to playback restriction by the third playback restriction unit, the user wants to view regular content with higher quality. We are actively promoting the continuation of possible periods.

  Further, when the reproduction quality of the content data is deteriorated, the control unit 213a functions as three deterioration means, which are described below, a first deterioration means, a second deterioration means, and a progress deterioration means. A process for restricting different types of reproduction is performed.

(About the first degradation means)
When functioning as the first deterioration means, the control unit 213a gradually increases the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality of the content data in accordance with the elapsed time from the start of the reproducible period stored in the distribution restriction storage means. I'm trying to do the right thing.

  Specific methods for degrading the reproduction quality of the content data used here include, for example, a method of adding white noise to the content data when the content data includes music (audio data), and a volume during reproduction. , Gradually reducing the volume during playback, increasing or decreasing the volume during playback, decreasing the output of the high or low frequency range, and the midrange (vocal voice band) ), A method of randomly changing the pitch (pitch), a method of adding hiss noise like an old cassette tape, and the like.

  Also, if the content data contains video (image data), insert white noise, mosaic, circular / banded black solid blindfold, etc. into the content, and gradually remove these inserted areas. A method of spreading, a method of inserting another video unrelated to the content at any timing, a method of fading the video (reddish, sepia, gray, white), TV broadcasting You can use the method of getting closer to the sandstorm video after the end.

  As a result, it is possible to make the user recognize that the time when the playback becomes impossible due to the degree of deterioration of the playback quality is approaching, and to more actively encourage the continuation of the content playback enabled period. I have to.

(About the second deterioration means)
In addition, when functioning as the second deterioration means, the control unit 213a performs a process of gradually increasing the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality of the content data in accordance with an increase in the number of reproductions of the content data subjected to reproduction restriction. Like to do.

  Here, as a method for degrading the reproduction quality of the content data by the second degradation means, the same method as the first degradation means described above can be used.

  As a result, the user can be aware that the number of times playback is impossible due to the degree of deterioration in playback quality is approaching, and can be more actively encouraged to continue the content playback period. I have to.

(About progress deterioration means)
In addition, when functioning as progress deterioration means, the control unit 213a performs a process that gradually increases the degree of deterioration in the reproduction quality of the content data as the reproduction of the content data subjected to the reproduction restriction progresses. .

  This makes it possible for the user to recognize that payment processing has not been performed during playback of content data with playback restrictions, and to actively encourage the user to perform payment processing. ing.

(Regarding related content requesting means and related content receiving means)
When the control unit 213a functions as a payment condition determination unit and determines that the payment process status does not satisfy the payment condition, the control unit 213a requests the content distribution device 1a to distribute trial version data. It functions as a related content requesting means for performing.

  Thereafter, the control unit 213a functions as a related content receiving unit, performs a process of receiving the trial version data transmitted from the content distribution device 1a, and then stores the received trial version data in the second storage unit 203a. Process to memorize.

  Then, the control unit 213a performs a process of reproducing the trial version data stored in the second storage unit 203a as content data subjected to reproduction restriction.

  In this way, by allowing the user to reproduce the trial version data, it is possible to encourage the continuation of the content availability period.

(About content selection means)
The control unit 213a also functions as a content selection unit that arbitrarily selects one type of content data from among a plurality of types of content data restricted by the above-described units.

  That is, the control unit 213a includes the trial version data stored in the related content storage unit, the content data subjected to reproduction restriction by the second reproduction restriction unit, and the content subjected to reproduction restriction by the third reproduction restriction unit. Any one piece of content data is arbitrarily selected from the data, and the selected content data is reproduced as content data subjected to reproduction restriction.

  In this way, it is possible to reproduce content data arbitrarily selected from content data subjected to a plurality of types of reproduction restrictions, so it is possible to actively continue the content reproducible period without distracting the interest of the user. Can be urged.

[2.4. Payment Management Device Configuration)
FIG. 25 is a functional block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the payment management apparatus 3a in the second embodiment. The payment management apparatus 3a is applicable to a general server computer, and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 301a and a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores (stores) various programs and the like as shown in FIG. The first storage unit 302a, a second storage unit 303a composed of an HDD (Hard Disc Drive) or the like for storing various data, and the content distribution device 1a or the terminal device 2a via the communication line 4a. And a network interface 304a that communicates with a terminal device of a financial institution (not shown), a peripheral device control chip 307a that controls input units such as a keyboard 305a and a mouse 306a that can input predetermined information, and a CPU 301a. A video that receives the image data, writes it in an internal video memory (not shown), and displays the data written in this video memory on a display 309a described later. The various components are connected to each other via a system bus 310a. In the present embodiment, the CPU 301a, the first storage unit 302a, and the second storage unit 303a constitute a control unit 312a. The network interface 304a is connected to the communication line 4a via the router 10C.

(Regarding the first storage unit 302)
The first storage unit 302a stores an OS program 320a for providing basic functions as a computer of the payment management apparatus 3a. The OS program is read by the CPU 301a and is read by the CPU 301a. Functions according to these programs are executed.

  Here, the OS program 320a is read out and executed by the CPU 301a, so that functions related to input / output of the keyboard 305a and the mouse 306a, memory management of the first storage unit 302a and the second storage unit 303a, and the like. This makes it possible to execute the basic functions of the computer which is the payment management apparatus 3a.

(About the second storage unit 303a)
The second storage unit 303a stores information on the settlement processing status including information on whether each user has paid a predetermined fee, information on the date and time when the user has paid the fee, and the like. The information regarding the payment processing status is updated every time the payment processing status changes.

  The second storage unit 303a also stores the ID of each user, and manages and stores the information related to the settlement processing status described above for each ID.

(About control unit 312a)
As described above, the control unit 312a is composed of the CPU 301a, the first storage unit 302a, and the second storage unit 303a. When the control unit 312a receives a request for information related to the payment processing status from the terminal device 2a, the second storage unit 303a. In addition to processing to send information on the latest payment processing status from the terminal to the terminal device 2a, the entire payment management device 3a, such as communication processing with the terminal device of the financial institution to update the payment processing status It is something to control.

[2.5. Operation program for content distribution apparatus]
Here, an operation program of the content distribution apparatus 1a in the second embodiment will be described. The control unit 113a of the content distribution apparatus 1a performs control according to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In the description of the operation program of the content distribution apparatus 1a, the control unit 113a of the content distribution apparatus 1a is simply referred to as the control unit 113a.

(Main process)
As shown in FIG. 26, in the main process, the control unit 113a starts the process when the power is turned on, determines whether or not an operation by the user of the content transmission device 1a has been performed (step S175), If it is determined that an operation by the user has been performed (step S175: Yes), the process proceeds to step S177. If it is determined that an operation by the user has not been performed (step S175: No), the process proceeds to step S216.

  In step S177, the control unit 113a determines whether or not the operation by the user is a power-off operation, and when it is determined that the operation is a power-off operation (step S177: Yes) (step S177: Yes) After performing S178), the main process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the control unit 113a determines that the operation by the user is not a power-off operation (step S177: No), the control unit 113a performs other processing (step S179) corresponding to the operation, and then performs the processing in step S215. Move to.

  In step S176, the control unit 113a determines whether or not a request command has been received. If it is determined that the request command has not been received (step S176: No), the process returns to step S175, and the power is turned on. For a while, the process enters the standby state by repeatedly performing the processes of steps S175 to S176.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S176 that a request command has been received (step S176: Yes), the control unit 113a moves the process to step S180.

  In step S180, the control unit 113a determines whether or not the request command is a content request. If the control unit 113a determines that the request command is a content request command (step S180: Yes), the process proceeds to step S181. If it is determined that it is not a command (step S180: No), the process proceeds to step S182.

  In step S181, the control unit 113a performs the content data transmission process shown in FIG. 27, and then moves the process to step S175.

  In step S182, the control unit 113a determines whether or not the request command is a trial version data request. If it is determined that the request command is a trial version data request (step S182: Yes), the process proceeds to step S183. If it is determined that the request is not a trial version data request (step S182: No), the process proceeds to step S184.

  In step S183, the control unit 113a performs the trial version data transmission process shown in FIG. 28, and then moves the process to step S175.

  In step S184, the control unit 123a performs other request processing corresponding to the request command, and then moves the processing to step S175.

(Content data transmission process)
This content data transmission process is a process performed in step S181 shown in FIG. 26, and is performed by the control unit 113a according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As illustrated in FIG. 27, in the content data transmission process, the control unit 113a performs the timer setting process (step S187), and then moves the process to step S188.

  In the timer setting process performed at this time (step S188), the control unit 113a performs a process of starting time measurement with a 3-minute timer from the time when a request command indicating a content request is received from the terminal device 2a.

  In step S188, the control unit 113a refers to the second storage unit 103a to perform processing for confirming the presence of content data corresponding to the content request, and then moves the processing to step S189.

  In step S189, the control unit 113a determines whether there is content data corresponding to the content request. If it is determined that the content data exists, the control unit 113a moves the process to step S190, and if it determines that the content data does not exist, the process proceeds to step S185. Move to.

  In step S190, the control unit 113a performs a process of transmitting content data corresponding to the content request to the terminal device 2a, and then moves the process to step S191.

  In step S185, the control unit 113a determines whether or not it is a time limit. If it is determined that the time limit is reached, the process proceeds to step S186. If it is determined that the time limit is not reached, the process proceeds to step S188. Move to.

  That is, when it is determined that the time measured by the timer has exceeded 3 minutes, the control unit 113a performs a process of transmitting failure information indicating that the transmission of the content data has failed to the terminal device 2a (step S186). Then, the process proceeds to step S191.

  On the other hand, when the control unit 113a determines that the time does not exceed 3 minutes, the processing in steps S188 to S189 is repeated.

  In step S191, the control unit 113a performs the process of canceling the timer, and then ends the content data transmission process and moves the process to step S175 shown in FIG.

(Trial version data transmission process)
This trial version data transmission processing is processing performed in step S183 shown in FIG. 26, and is performed by the control unit 113a according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 28, in the trial version data transmission process, the control unit 113a performs the timer setting process (step S194), and then moves the process to step S195.

  In the timer setting process (step S194) performed at this time, the control unit 113a performs a process of starting time measurement using a timer for 3 minutes from the time when a request command indicating a trial version data request is received from the terminal device 2a.

  In step S195, the control unit 113a refers to the second storage unit 103a to perform processing for confirming the existence of data corresponding to the trial version data request, and then moves the processing to step S196.

  In step S196, the control unit 113a determines whether there is data corresponding to the trial version data request. If it is determined that the data exists, the control unit 113a moves the process to step S197, and if it determines that the data does not exist, the process is performed. Move on to step S192.

  In step S197, the control unit 113a performs a process of transmitting data corresponding to the trial version data request to the terminal device 2a, and then moves the process to step S198.

  Further, in step S192, the control unit 113a determines whether or not it is a time limit, and when it is determined that it is a time limit, the process proceeds to step S193, and when it is determined that it is not a time limit, the process is performed in step S195. Move to.

  That is, when it is determined that the time measured by the timer has exceeded 3 minutes, the control unit 113a performs processing for transmitting failure information indicating that transmission of the trial version data has failed to the terminal device 2a (step S193). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S198.

  On the other hand, when the control unit 113a determines that the time does not exceed 3 minutes, the processing in steps S195 to S196 is repeated.

  In step S198, the control unit 113a performs the process of canceling the timer, and then ends the content data transmission process and moves the process to step S175 shown in FIG.

[2.6. Terminal device operation program]
Next, an operation program of the terminal device 2a in the second embodiment will be described. The control unit 213a of the terminal device 2a performs control according to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In the description of the operation program of the terminal device 2a, the control unit 213a of the terminal device 1a is simply referred to as the control unit 213a.

  In the following description, processing performed by the control unit 213a after the terminal device 2a transmits a request command to the content distribution device 1a will be described.

(Main process)
As shown in FIG. 29, in the main process, the control unit 213a starts the process when the power is turned on, determines whether or not an operation by the user of the terminal device 2a has been performed (step S2), and the user If it is determined that an operation according to (2) is performed (step S2: Yes), the process proceeds to step S3. If it is determined that an operation by the user is not performed (step S2: No), the process proceeds to step S2.

  In step S3, the control unit 213a determines whether the user operation in step S2 is an operation for downloading content, and determines that the operation is an operation for downloading (step S3: If yes, the process proceeds to step S4, and if it is determined that the operation is not for downloading (step S3: No), the process proceeds to step S5.

  In step S4, after performing the content download process shown in FIG. 30, the control unit 213a moves the process to step S2 shown in FIG.

  In step S5, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the user operation in step S2 is an operation for reproducing content data. If the control unit 213a determines that the operation is a reproduction operation (step S3: Yes), the process proceeds to step S5. The process proceeds to S11, and if it is determined that the operation is not a reproduction operation (step S3: No), the process proceeds to step S7.

  In step S11, the control unit 213a performs the charge check process shown in FIG. 32, and then proceeds to step S6.

  In step S6, the control unit 213a performs the reproduction process shown in FIG. 31, and then moves the process to step S2 shown in FIG.

  In step S7, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the user operation in step S2 is an operation for turning off the power, and determines that the operation is for turning off the power (step S7: Yes ), After the process of turning off the power (step S8), the process is terminated and it is determined that the operation is not an operation of turning off the power (step S7: No). Other processing is performed (step S9), and then the processing proceeds to step S2.

(Content data download process)
This content data download processing is processing performed in step S4 shown in FIG. 29, and is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 30 by the control unit 213a functioning as content acquisition means.

  As shown in FIG. 30, in the content data download process, the control unit 213a performs the timer set process (step S13), and then moves the process to step S14.

  In the timer setting process (step S13) performed at this time, the control unit 213a performs a process of starting time measurement with a 3-minute timer from the point in time when the user operation is detected in step S2 shown in FIG.

  In step S14, the control unit 213a determines whether or not communication with the content distribution apparatus 1a is possible. If it is determined that communication is possible (step S14: Yes), the process proceeds to step S15 and communication is not possible. Is determined (step S14: No), the process proceeds to step S12.

  In step S15, the control unit 213a performs processing for acquiring content data from the content distribution device 1a, and then moves the processing to step S16.

  In step S16, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the content data has been acquired. If it is determined that the content data has been acquired (step S16: Yes), the process proceeds to step S17, and the content data cannot be acquired. If it is determined that the process has been completed (step S16: No), the process proceeds to step S12.

  In step S17, the control unit 213a performs a process of storing the content data acquired in step S15 in the second storage unit 203a, and then moves the process to step S18.

  In step S12, the control unit 213a determines whether or not it is a time limit. If it is determined that the time limit is reached, the process proceeds to step S18. If the control unit 213a determines that the time limit is not reached, the process proceeds to step S14. Move to.

  That is, when the control unit 213a determines that the measurement time by the timer has exceeded 3 minutes, the control unit 213a terminates the time measurement by the timer by performing the process of releasing the timer (step S18), and performs the content data download process. When finished, the process proceeds to step S2 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the time does not exceed 3 minutes, the control unit 213a repeatedly performs the processes in steps S14 to S16.

(Reproduction processing)
This reproduction process is a process performed in step S6 shown in FIG. 29, and is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 31 by the control unit 213a functioning as a reproduction unit and a settlement condition determination unit.

  As shown in FIG. 31, in the reproduction process, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the viewing restriction flag is 1 based on the payment process status information acquired in the charge check process described later (step S34).

  This viewing restriction flag stores “1” in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a when the control unit 213a determines that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment conditions based on the payment processing status information. This flag is established by

  Then, when the control unit 213a determines that the viewing restriction flag is 1 (step S34: Yes), the process proceeds to step S35, and when it is determined that the viewing restriction flag is not 1 (step S34: No). To Step S37.

  In step S35, the control unit 213a performs the viewing-restricted playback process shown in FIG. 33, and then increments the number of times the settlement process promoting content data is played (step S36). The process moves to step S2 shown in FIG.

  In step S37, the control unit 213a performs the process of reproducing the content data received from the content distribution apparatus 1a, ends the reproduction process, and moves the process to step S2 shown in FIG.

(Price check processing)
This fee check process is a process performed in step S11 shown in FIG. 29, and is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 32, with the control unit 213a functioning as a settlement status acquisition unit and a settlement condition determination unit.

  As shown in FIG. 32, in the charge check process, the control unit 213a connects to the payment management apparatus 3a (step S20), and then moves the process to step S21.

  In step S21, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the connection to the content distribution apparatus 1a has been established. When it is determined that the connection has been made (step S21: Yes), the process proceeds to step S22, and when it is determined that the connection has failed. The processing moves to (Step S21: No) to Step S28.

  In step S22, the control unit 213a performs processing for requesting payment processing status information and restriction mode information to the payment management device 3a (step S22), and then performs timer set processing (step S23), and then performs processing. Move on to step S24.

  In the timer setting process (step S23) performed at this time, the control unit 213a performs a process of starting time measurement with a timer for one minute from the time when the request process of the settlement process status information and the restriction mode information is performed in step S22.

  In step S24, the control unit 213a performs processing for receiving the payment processing status information and the restriction mode information from the payment management device 3a, and then moves the processing to step S25.

  Here, the restriction mode information received by the control unit 213a includes a plurality of kinds of restriction modes, and specifically, there are restriction modes similar to the restriction modes in the first embodiment shown in FIG.

  In the second embodiment, the payment processing status information and the restriction mode information are acquired from the payment management apparatus 3a. However, the restriction mode information may be acquired from the content distribution apparatus 1a. .

  In this case, when transmitting a content distribution request to the content distribution device 1a, the control unit 213a performs processing for adding the payment processing status information acquired from the payment management device 3a to the distribution request and transmitting it. .

  Then, the control unit 113a of the content distribution device 1a refers to the payment processing status information of the terminal device 2a added to the received content distribution request, selects the restriction mode information corresponding to the information, and distributes the content At the same time, a process for transmitting the restriction mode to the terminal device 2a is performed.

  In step S25, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the payment processing status information and the restriction mode information have been received. If it is determined that the payment processing status information and the restriction mode information have been received (step S25: Yes), the process proceeds to step S26 and cannot be received. If it is determined that the process has been performed (step S25: No), the process proceeds to step S19.

  The restriction mode information received at this time is information for supporting which restriction mode is used to restrict the viewing among a plurality of kinds of restriction modes in the viewing restriction reproduction process described later.

  In step S19, the control unit 213a determines whether or not it is a time limit, and when it is determined that it is a time limit (step S19: Yes), the process proceeds to step S28, and when it is determined that it is not a time limit ( In step S19: No), the process proceeds to step S24.

  That is, when the control unit 213a determines that the time measured by the timer has exceeded 1 minute and ends the time measurement by the timer and does not exceed 1 minute, the control unit 213a performs the processing in steps S24 to S25. I try to do it repeatedly.

  In step S26, the control unit 213a determines whether the user's payment processing status satisfies a predetermined payment processing condition based on the payment processing status information received in step S25, and satisfies the payment condition. If it is determined that the payment condition is not satisfied (step S26: Yes), the process proceeds to step S29. If it is determined that the settlement condition is not satisfied (step S26: No), the process proceeds to step S27.

  That is, the control unit 213a has not paid an additional fee between the first payment of the predetermined fee for the content requested by the user who has operated the terminal device 2a until the present, and currently corresponds to the first payment. Content that corresponds to the additional fee that has been paid, provided that the user is paying an additional fee between the initial payment of the content and the current fee When it is determined that the condition that it is within the available period is not satisfied, the viewing restriction flag is set to “1”, the received restriction mode is set (step S27), and then the process proceeds to step S28. .

  In step S29, the control unit 213a performs a process of resetting the reproduction additional flag, then performs a process of resetting the number of times of reproduction of the settlement processing promotion content data (step S30), and then resets the viewing restriction flag. Processing is performed (step S31), and the process proceeds to step S32.

  In step S32, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the elapsed time measurement after the viewing restriction is started, and when it is determined that the time has started (step S32: Yes), the process proceeds to step S33 and starts. If it is determined that it has not been performed (step S32: No), the process proceeds to step S28.

  In step S33, the control unit 213a completes the measurement of the elapsed time after the viewing restriction and performs the process of resetting the elapsed time, and then moves the process to step S28.

  In step S28, the control unit 213a performs the process of canceling the timer set in step S23, and then ends the charge check process and moves the process to step S2 shown in FIG.

(Viewing restricted playback process)
This viewing restricted reproduction process is a process performed in step S35 shown in FIG. 31, and the control unit 213a performs the first reproduction restriction means, the second reproduction restriction means, the third reproduction restriction means, the first deterioration means, and the second deterioration means. It functions as a progress deterioration means, a content selection means, a related content request means, and a related content reception means, and is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 33, in the limited viewing reproduction process, the control unit 213a performs a reproduction availability determination process (step S38), and then moves the process to step S39. The reproduction permission / inhibition determination process performed here is performed according to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  In step S39, the control unit 213a determines whether or not a regeneration prohibition flag, which will be described later, is set. If it is determined that the regeneration prohibition flag is not set (step S39: No), the process proceeds to step S40. If it is determined that the reproduction disable flag is set (step S39: Yes), the viewing restricted reproduction process is terminated, and the content data is moved to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S40, the control unit 213a obtains the restriction mode from the restriction mode information received in step S24 shown in FIG. 32, then performs a process of analyzing the obtained restriction mode (step S41), and then moves the process to step S42. .

  In step S42, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the acquired restriction mode is the trial version mode, and if it is determined that it is the trial version mode (step S42: Yes), the process proceeds to step S43. If it is determined that the mode is not the trial version mode (step S42: No), the process proceeds to step S44.

  In step S43, the control unit 213a performs a trial version mode playback process (see FIG. 39) using the content to be transmitted to the terminal device 2a as trial version data, and then ends the viewing restriction playback process and performs the process. The process moves to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S44, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the acquired restricted mode is a random mode. If the control unit 213a determines that the acquired restricted mode is a random mode (step S44: Yes), the process proceeds to step S45. Is determined (step S44: No), the process proceeds to step S46.

  In step S45, the control unit 213a performs the random mode reproduction process shown in FIG. 36, ends the viewing restriction reproduction process, and moves the process to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S46, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the acquired restriction mode is the fade-out mode. If the control unit 213a determines that the acquired limit mode is the fade-out mode (step S46: Yes), the process proceeds to step S47. Is determined (step S46: No), the process proceeds to step S48.

  In step S47, the control unit 213a performs the fade-out mode reproduction process shown in FIG. 37, ends the viewing restriction reproduction process, and moves the process to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S48, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the acquired restriction mode is the constant deterioration mode. If it is determined that the acquired restriction mode is the constant deterioration mode (step S48: Yes), the process proceeds to step S49. If it is determined that the mode is not the deterioration mode (step S48: No), the viewing restricted reproduction process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S49, the control unit 213a performs the constant deterioration mode process shown in FIG. 38, ends the viewing restriction reproduction process, and moves the process to step S36 shown in FIG.

(Playability determination process)
This reproducibility determination process is a process performed in S38 shown in FIG. 33, and is performed by the control unit 213a according to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  As shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, in the reproduction possibility determination process, the control unit 213a performs a process of canceling the reproduction impossibility flag when the reproduction impossibility flag is set in the second storage unit 203a ( Step S50), and then the process proceeds to Step S51.

  Here, the reproduction impossible flag indicates whether or not the terminal device 2a reproduces the content data for settlement processing promotion in which viewing restriction is applied to the content data, and the reproduction impossible flag is set. Indicates that the reproduction of the payment processing promotion content data is prohibited, and the state where the reproduction impossible flag is released indicates that the payment processing promotion content data can be reproduced. .

  In step S51, the control unit 213a performs a process of acquiring the reproducible postponement mode, and then moves the process to step S52.

  This terminal device 2a has three types of modes, ie, a period grace mode, a number grace mode within a period, and a number grace mode as a reproducible grace mode.

  Here, the term postponement mode is set in advance for the longest period during which payment processing promotion content data can be reproduced (hereinafter referred to as “MAX period”), and only for this MAX period. This is a reproducible grace mode in which content data can be reproduced.

  In addition, the number of times within the period is set to the maximum number of times that the settlement processing promotion content data can be reproduced within the MAX period (hereinafter referred to as “MAX number”), and the MAX period within the MAX period. This is a reproducible postponement mode in which the settlement processing promoting content data can be reproduced only for the number of times.

  Further, the number-of-times grace mode is a reproducible grace mode in which payment processing promotion content data can be played back only for the maximum number of times.

  Then, the control unit 213a refers to the distribution restriction information stored in the second storage unit 203a and the content reproduction program, and executes these three types of reproducible suspension modes. ing.

  In step S52, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the reproducible grace mode acquired in the process of step S51 is the period grace mode, and the process is performed when it is determined that the period grace mode is set (step S52: Yes). The process proceeds to step S53, and if it is determined that the period is not the grace period mode (step S52: No), the process proceeds to step S59.

  In step S53, the control unit 213a acquires information about the MAX period, sets a1 as a variable indicating the MAX period in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a, and then moves the process to step S54.

  In step S54, the control unit 213a sets b1 as a variable indicating the time elapsed from the start of the restriction, that is, the time from the time when the payment condition determination unit determines that the payment condition is not satisfied, in the predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a. And the process proceeds to step S55.

  In step S55, the control unit 213a compares the variable a1 with the variable b1, and determines whether or not a1> b1. Here, when the control unit 213a determines that a1> b1 is satisfied (step S55: Yes), the process proceeds to step S56 without setting the non-reproducible flag, and when it is determined that a1> b1 is not satisfied (step S55). : No), a non-reproducible flag is set in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a (step S57), and then the process proceeds to step S56.

  In step S56, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the elapsed time measurement after viewing restriction (update process of the variable b1) is started, and determines that the update process of the variable b1 is not started (step S56). When the process of starting the update process of the variable b1 is performed (step S58) in S56: No), the reproduction permission determination process is terminated, and it is determined that the update process of the variable b1 is started (step S56: Yes) ), The reproduction permission / inhibition determination process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S39 shown in FIG.

  In step S59, the control unit 213a determines whether the reproducible grace mode acquired in step S51 is the number of times grace mode within the period, and determines that the number of grace modes within the period is the grace mode. If so (step S59: Yes), the process proceeds to step S60. If it is determined that the number of times within the period is not in the postponement mode (step S59: No), the process proceeds to step S67.

  In step S60, the control unit 213a acquires information related to the MAX period, sets a1 as a variable indicating the MAX period in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a, and then moves the process to step S61.

  In step S61, the control unit 213a sets b1 as a variable indicating the time elapsed from the start of the restriction, that is, the time from the time when the payment condition determination unit determines that the payment condition is not satisfied, in the predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a. And the process proceeds to step S62.

  In step S62, the control unit 213a compares the variable a1 with the variable b1, and determines whether or not a1> b1. Here, when it is determined that a1> b1 is satisfied (step S62: Yes), the control unit 213a moves the process to step S63 without setting the regeneration disabled flag, and when it is determined that a1> b1 is not satisfied (step S62). : No), a non-reproducible flag is set in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a (step S66), and then the process proceeds to step S56.

  In step S63, the control unit 213a acquires information on the MAX count, sets c1 as a variable indicating the MAX count in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a, and then moves the process to step S64.

  In step S64, the control unit 213a sets d1 as a variable indicating the number of reproductions from the start of restriction, that is, the number of reproductions of settlement processing promotion content data, in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a, and the process proceeds to step S65. Transfer.

  In step S65, the control unit 213a compares the variable c1 with the variable d1, and determines whether c1> d1. Here, when the control unit 213a determines that c1> d1 is satisfied (step S65: Yes), the process proceeds to step S56 without setting the non-reproducible flag, and when it is determined that c1> d1 is not satisfied (step S65). : No), a non-reproducible flag is set in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a (step S66), and then the process proceeds to step S56.

  In step S67, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the reproducible grace mode acquired by the process of step S51 is the number-of-times grace mode, and determines that it is the number-of-times grace mode (step S67: Yes). The process proceeds to step S68, and if it is determined that the number of times is not in the postponement mode (step S67: No), the process proceeds to step S71.

  In step S71, the control unit 213a performs the process of setting the reproducible grace mode to the period grace mode, and then moves the process to step S52.

  In step S68, the control unit 213a acquires information regarding the MAX count, sets c1 as a variable indicating the MAX count in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a, and then moves the process to step S69.

  In step S69, the control unit 213a sets d1 in the predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a as a variable indicating the number of reproductions from the start of restriction, that is, the number of reproductions of the settlement processing promotion content data, and the process proceeds to step S70. Transfer.

  In step S70, the control unit 213a compares the variable c1 with the variable d1, and determines whether c1> d1. Here, when it is determined that c1> d1 is satisfied (step S70: Yes), the control unit 213a terminates the reproduction propriety determination process without setting the reproduction impossibility flag. Thereafter, the process is illustrated in FIG. Move on to step S39.

  Further, when it is determined that c1> d1 is not satisfied (step S70: No), the control unit 213a performs a process (step S72) for setting a non-reproducible flag in a predetermined area of the second storage unit 203a, and then performs this reproduction. The availability determination process is terminated, and then the process proceeds to step S39 shown in FIG.

(Random mode playback processing)
This random mode reproduction process is a process performed in step S45 shown in FIG. 33, and is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 36 by the control unit 213a functioning as a content selection unit.

  As shown in FIG. 36, in the random mode reproduction process, the control unit 213a performs a process of randomly selecting a restriction mode from a plurality of kinds of restriction modes (step S73), and then moves the process to step S74.

  In step S74, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the randomly selected control mode is a random mode. If the control unit 213a determines that the control mode is a random mode (step S74: Yes), the process proceeds to step S73. If it is determined that the mode is not set (step S74: No), the process proceeds to step S75.

  In step S75, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the selected restriction mode is the fade-out mode. If the control unit 213a determines that the selected restriction mode is the fade-out mode (step S75: Yes), the process proceeds to step S76. Is determined (step S75: No), the process proceeds to step S82.

  In step S76, the control unit 213a performs the process of updating the restriction mode to the acquired mode, then performs a process of randomly selecting a means from a plurality of types of restriction means (step S77), and then selects the restriction means. A process of updating to the limiting means is performed (step S78), and the process proceeds to step S79.

  Here, the terminal device 2a includes two types of limiting means, that is, a period limiting means and a frequency limiting means, as limiting means.

  The term limit means here means that the control unit 113 functions as the first deterioration means, and the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality step by step according to the elapsed time from the start of the reproducible period of the settlement processing promotion content data. The process which raises is performed.

  The number limiting means is a process in which the control means 213a functions as a second deterioration means to increase the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality step by step in accordance with the increase in the number of times the settlement processing promoting content data is reproduced. Is.

  In step S79, the control means 213a performs a process of randomly selecting a method from a plurality of types of restriction methods, then performs a process of updating to the selected restriction method (step S80), and then moves the process to step S81.

  Here, the terminal device 2a includes two types of limiting methods, a partial limiting method and a quality limiting method, as limiting methods.

  Here, the partial restriction method is a method in which the control unit 213a functions as the second reproduction restriction unit and restricts a part of the content data as payment processing promoting content data.

  The quality restriction method is a method in which the control unit 213a functions as third reproduction restriction means to restrict content data whose reproduction quality of content data is deteriorated as content data for promoting settlement processing. In the present embodiment, as a specific example of this quality restriction method, a sound quality restriction method that degrades the sound quality of content data is used as the quality restriction method.

  In step S81, the control unit 213a performs the fade-out mode playback process shown in FIG. 37, ends the random mode playback process, and moves the process to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S82, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the selected restriction mode is the constant deterioration mode. If it is determined that the selected restriction mode is the constant deterioration mode (step S82: Yes), the process proceeds to step S83. If it is determined that the mode is not the constant deterioration mode (step S82: No), the process proceeds to step S87.

  In step S83, the control unit 213a performs processing for updating the restriction mode to the acquired mode, then performs processing for randomly selecting a method from a plurality of types of restriction methods (step S84), and then selects the restriction method. A process for updating to the restriction method is performed (step S85), and the process proceeds to step S86.

  In step S86, the control unit 213a performs the constant deterioration mode process shown in FIG. 38, ends the random mode reproduction process, and moves the process to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S87, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the selected restriction mode is the trial version mode. If it is determined that the selected restriction mode is the trial version mode (step S87: Yes), the process proceeds to step S88. When it is determined that the mode is not the trial version mode (step S87: No), the random mode restriction data creation process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S88, the control unit 213a performs the process of updating the restricted mode to the acquired mode, then performs the trial version mode reproduction process (step S89) shown in FIG. 39, and then ends the random mode reproduction process. Then, the process proceeds to step S36 shown in FIG.

(Fade out mode playback process)
This fade-out mode reproduction process is a process performed in step S47 shown in FIG. 33 and step S81 shown in FIG. 36, and is executed by the control unit 213a according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 37, in the fade-out mode reproduction process, the control unit 113 performs a process (step S90) of acquiring information on the limiting unit, and then analyzes the limiting unit from the acquired information on the limiting unit (step S91). Then, the process proceeds to step S92.

  In step S92, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the limiting unit is the number limiting unit as a result of the analysis in step S91. If the control unit 213a determines that the limiting unit is the number limiting unit (step S92: Yes), the process proceeds to step S92. The process moves to S93, and if it is determined that the number of times is not limited (step S92: No), the process moves to step S98.

  In step S93, the control unit 213a functions as the second deterioration means, performs the number limiting process shown in FIG. 40, and then moves the process to step S94.

  In step S98, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the limiting unit is a period limiting unit. If the control unit 213a determines that the limiting unit is a period limiting unit (step S98: Yes), the process proceeds to step S99. If it is determined that the limit is not reached (step S98: No), the process proceeds to step S94.

  In step S99, the control unit 213a functions as the first deterioration means, performs the period limiting process shown in FIG. 41, and then moves the process to step S94.

  In step S94, the control unit 213a performs processing for acquiring information related to the limiting method, performs processing for analyzing the acquired limiting method (step S95), and then moves the processing to step S96.

  In step S96, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the restriction method is a sound quality restriction method as a result of the analysis in step S95. If it is determined that the restriction method is a sound quality restriction method (step S96: Yes), the process is performed. The process moves to S97, and if it is determined that the method is not the sound quality restriction method (Step S96: No), the process moves to Step S100.

  In step S97, the control unit 213a performs the sound quality limiting process shown in FIGS. 42 and 43, then ends this fade-out mode reproduction process, and moves the process to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S100, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the restriction method is a partial restriction method. If it is determined that the restriction method is a partial restriction method (step S100: Yes), the process proceeds to step S101. If it is determined that the method is not the restriction method (step S100: No), the fade-out mode reproduction process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S101, the control unit 213a performs the partial restriction process shown in FIGS. 44 and 45, ends the fade-out mode reproduction process, and moves the process to step S36 shown in FIG.

(Constant degradation mode playback processing)
This constant deterioration mode reproduction process is a process performed in step S49 shown in FIG. 33 and step S86 shown in FIG. 36, and is executed by the control unit 213a according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 38, in the constant deterioration mode reproduction process, the control unit 213a performs a process of obtaining information on the restriction method (step S102), and then performs a process of analyzing the obtained restriction method (step S103). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S104, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the restriction method is the sound quality restriction method as a result of the analysis in step S103. If it is determined that the restriction method is the sound quality restriction method (step S104: Yes), the process is performed. The process moves to S105, and if it is determined that the method is not the sound quality restriction method (step S104: No), the process moves to step S106.

  In step S105, the control unit 213a performs the sound quality limiting process shown in FIG. 42 and FIG. 43, then ends the constant deterioration mode reproduction process, and moves the process to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S106, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the restriction method is a partial restriction method. If it is determined that the restriction method is a partial restriction method (step S106: Yes), the process proceeds to step S107. If it is determined that the method is not the limiting method (step S106: No), the constant deterioration mode regeneration process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S107, the control unit 213a performs the partial restriction process shown in FIGS. 44 and 45, ends the constant deterioration mode regeneration process, and moves the process to step S36 shown in FIG.

(Trial mode playback process)
This trial version mode playback processing is performed in step S43 shown in FIG. 33 and step S89 shown in FIG. 36, and the control means 213a functions as related content requesting means, related content receiving means, and playback means. This is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 39, in the trial version mode reproduction process, the control unit 213a performs a process of connecting to the content distribution apparatus 1a (step S110), and then moves the process to step S111.

  In step S111, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the connection to the content distribution apparatus 1a has been established. When the control unit 213a determines that the connection has been made (step S111: Yes), the process proceeds to step S112. At (Step S111: No), the trial version mode reproduction process is terminated, and the process proceeds to Step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S112, the control unit 213a performs processing for requesting trial version data from the content distribution apparatus 1a (related content request), and then performs timer setting processing (step S113), and then the processing proceeds to step S114. Transfer.

  In the timer set process (step S113) performed at this time, the control unit 213a performs a process of starting the time measurement by the timer for 3 minutes from the time when the user operation for requesting the trial version data is detected to the content distribution apparatus 1a. Do.

  In step S114, the control unit 213a performs the process of receiving the trial version data, and then moves the process to step S115.

  In step S115, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the trial version data has been received. If it is determined that the trial version data has been received (step S115: Yes), the process proceeds to step S116 and if it is determined that the trial version data has not been received. (Step S115: No) The process proceeds to Step S108.

  In step S116, the control unit 213a performs a process of deleting content data from the second storage unit 203a, and then moves the process to step S343.

  In step S343, the control unit 213a performs a viewing restriction comment reproduction process for reproducing a viewing restriction comment for indicating to the user of the terminal device 2a that the content to be reproduced is restricted.

  Specifically, when the payment processing content data is audio data, the audio data “This content is restricted for viewing” is reproduced, and when the payment processing promotion content data is image data, A process of reproducing character data “This content is restricted in viewing” is performed.

  Thereafter, the control unit 213a performs a process of reproducing the trial version data received in step S114 (step S117), and then ends the trial version mode reproduction process and moves the process to step S36 shown in FIG. .

  In step S108, the control unit 213a determines whether or not it is a time limit, and when it is determined that the time limit is reached (step S108: Yes), the process proceeds to step S109 and determines that the time limit is not reached. If so (step S108: No), the process proceeds to step S114.

  That is, when the control unit 213a determines that the measurement time by the timer has exceeded 3 minutes, the control unit 213a performs the process of setting the restriction mode to the constant deterioration mode (step S109), and then ends the trial version mode reproduction process. The processing moves to step S36 shown in FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined that it does not exceed 3 minutes, the processing in steps S114 to S115 is repeated.

(Number limit processing)
This number limiting process is a process performed in step S93 shown in FIG. 37, and is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 40, with the control unit 213a functioning as the second deterioration means.

  As shown in FIG. 40, in the number limiting process, the control unit 213a performs a process (step S120) of acquiring the number of times required for level UP and setting a variable to f1, and then moves the process to step S121. That is, the control unit 213a obtains the number of times of reproduction of the settlement processing promotion content data necessary for increasing the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality of the content data, and sets the variable f1 indicating the obtained number of reproductions to the second storage unit 203a. After performing the process of setting within the predetermined area, the process proceeds to step S121.

  In step S121, the control unit 213a performs a process of dividing the variable d1 set in step S69 shown in FIG. 34 and the variable f1 set in step S64 shown in FIG. 35 by the variable f1 set in step S120, and setting the result as a restriction level. After that, this number limiting process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S94 shown in FIG.

(Period restriction processing)
This period limiting process is a process performed in step S99 shown in FIG. 37, and is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 41, with the control unit 213a functioning as the first deterioration means.

  As shown in FIG. 41, in the period restriction process, the control unit 213a performs a process (step S118) of acquiring a period necessary for level UP and setting a variable to e1, and then moves the process to step S119. That is, the control unit 213a acquires the reproduction period of the settlement processing promoting content data necessary for increasing the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality of the content data, and sets the variable e1 indicating the acquired reproduction period to the second storage unit 203a. After performing the process of setting within the predetermined area, the process proceeds to step S119.

  In step S119, the control unit 213a performs a process of dividing the variable b1 set in step S54 and step S61 shown in FIG. 34 by the variable e1 set in step S118 and setting the result as a restriction level, This period limiting process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S94 shown in FIG.

(Sound quality restriction processing)
This sound quality restriction process is a process performed in step S97 shown in FIG. 37 and step S105 shown in FIG. 38. The control unit 213a functions as a third reproduction restriction unit, and follows the flowcharts shown in FIGS. Is what you do.

  As shown in FIGS. 42 and 43, in the sound quality restriction process, the control unit 213a performs the process of acquiring the sound quality restriction mode (step S122), and then performs the process of analyzing the acquired sound quality restriction mode (step S123). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124.

  In step S124, the control unit 213a determines whether the sound quality restriction mode is the progress deterioration mode as a result of the analysis in step S123. If the control unit 213a determines that the sound deterioration mode is the progress deterioration mode (step S124: Yes), the process is performed. The process proceeds to step S125, and if it is determined that the mode is not the progressive deterioration mode (step S124: No), the process proceeds to step S135.

  In step S125, the control unit 213a acquires the deterioration level UP interval information, and then moves the process to step S126. At this time, the control unit 213a functions as a progress deterioration unit, and performs setting so as to increase the deterioration level of the sound quality every time 30 seconds elapses during the reproduction of the payment processing promotion content data.

  In step S126, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the fade-out mode in the progress deterioration mode, and when it is determined that the fade-out mode is selected (step S126: Yes), the process proceeds to step S127. If it is determined (step S126: No), the process proceeds to step S133.

  In step S127, the control unit 213a performs a process of setting the deterioration level set in the fade-out mode process as an initial value and setting the value as the sound quality deterioration level.

  That is, here, the control unit 213a sets the sound quality deterioration level so that the sound quality deterioration level is higher than the sound quality deterioration level at the end of reproduction of the settlement processing promotion data distributed last time, and then moves the process to step S344. .

  Further, in step S133, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the constant deterioration mode in the progressive deterioration mode, and performs the process of step S134 when determining that it is the constant deterioration mode (step S133: Yes). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S128, and if it is determined that the mode is not the constant deterioration mode (step S133: No), the process proceeds to step S128.

  In step S134, the control unit 213a sets the initial value to 0 and sets the value as the sound quality deterioration level. That is, when the settlement processing promotion content data is reproduced next time, the control unit 213a performs processing for setting the content data to be reproduced without sound quality degradation for the first 30 seconds, and then the processing proceeds to step S344. Transfer. A viewing restriction comment reproduction process for reproducing a viewing restriction comment for indicating to the user of the terminal device 2a that the content to be reproduced from now on is restricted.

  Specifically, when the payment processing content data is audio data, the audio data “This content is restricted for viewing” is reproduced, and when the payment processing promotion content data is image data, A process of reproducing character data “This content is restricted in viewing” is performed.

  Thereafter, the control unit 213a performs a process of reproducing the payment process promoting content data (step S128), and then moves the process to step S129.

  In step S129, the control unit 213a performs sound quality deterioration processing corresponding to the deterioration level on the settlement processing promotion content data, and then moves the processing to step S130.

  At this time, the control unit 213a performs a process of deteriorating the sound quality to the sound quality deterioration level set in step S127 simultaneously with the reproduction of the settlement process promoting content data.

  In step S130, the control unit 213a performs a calculation process of dividing the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data by the deterioration level UP interval (30 seconds) acquired in step S125, and sets the calculation result as n1 to the second storage unit. The data is stored in a predetermined area 203a, and then the process proceeds to step S131.

  In step S131, the control unit 213a performs the process of setting the sound quality deterioration level to the initial value + n1 set in step S127, and then moves the process to step S132.

  In step S132, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data is equal to the total time of the content data, and determines the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data and the total time of the content data. Are determined to be equal to each other (step S132: Yes), the sound quality restriction process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S36 shown in FIG. 31, where the reproduction time of the settlement process promoting content data and the total time of the content data are If it is determined that they are not equal (step S132: No), the process proceeds to step S129.

  In this way, payment processing promoting content data in which the degree of deterioration in sound quality increases every time the degradation level UP interval (30 seconds) is reproduced is reproduced.

  In step S135, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the sound quality deterioration mode is the normal deterioration mode. If it is determined that the sound quality deterioration mode is the normal deterioration mode (step S135: Yes), the process proceeds to step S136. If it is determined that the mode is not the normal deterioration mode (step S135: No), the sound quality limiting process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S36 shown in FIG.

  In step S136, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the fade-out mode in the normal deterioration mode, and if it is determined to be the fade-out mode (step S136: Yes), the process proceeds to step S137. If it is determined (step S136: No), the process proceeds to step S141.

  In step S137, the control unit 213a performs the process of setting the deterioration level set in the fade-out mode process as an initial value and setting the value as the sound quality deterioration level, and then moves the process to step S138. That is, the control unit 213a performs a process of setting a deterioration level that is a predetermined level higher than the sound quality deterioration level at the end of reproduction of the previous settlement processing promotion content data as the initial deterioration level, and then moves the process to step S138.

  In step S141, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the constant deterioration mode in the normal deterioration mode. If the control unit 213a determines that the normal deterioration mode is set (step S141: Yes), the process proceeds to step S142. If it is determined that the mode is not the constant deterioration mode (step S141: No), the process proceeds to step S139.

  In step S142, the control unit 213a performs the process of setting the sound quality degradation level to the default value, and then moves the process to step S138.

  In step S138, the control unit 213a performs the sound quality deterioration process according to the sound quality deterioration level set in step S314 or step S142 on the entire payment processing promotion content data, and then moves the process to step S345.

  In step S345, the control unit 213a performs a viewing restriction comment reproduction process for reproducing a viewing restriction comment for indicating to the user of the terminal device 2a that the content to be reproduced is restricted.

  Specifically, when the payment processing content data is audio data, the audio data “This content is restricted for viewing” is reproduced, and when the payment processing promotion content data is image data, A process of reproducing character data “This content is restricted in viewing” is performed.

  Thereafter, the control unit 213a performs a process of reproducing the data subjected to the sound quality deterioration process in step S138 (step S139), and then shifts the process to S140.

  In step S140, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data is equal to the total time of the content data, and determines whether the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data and the total time of the content data are Are determined to be equal to each other (step S140: Yes), the sound quality restriction process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S36 shown in FIG. 31, where the reproduction time of the settlement process promoting content data and the total time of the content data are Are determined not to be equal (step S140: No), the process of step S140 is repeated.

(Partial restriction processing)
This partial restriction process is a process performed in step S101 shown in FIG. 37 and step S107 shown in FIG. 38. The control unit 213a functions as the second reproduction restriction unit, and follows the flowcharts shown in FIGS. Is what you do.

  As shown in FIGS. 44 and 45, in the partial restriction process, the control unit 213a performs a process of acquiring the partial restriction mode (step S143) and then performs a process of analyzing the acquired partial restriction mode (step S144). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S145.

  In step S145, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the partial restriction mode is the predetermined time mode as a result of the analysis in step S144. If the control unit 213a determines that the partial time mode is the predetermined time mode (step S145: Yes), the process is performed. The process moves to step S146, and if it is determined that the mode is not the predetermined time mode (step S145: No), the process moves to step S149.

  Here, the predetermined time mode is a mode for reproducing the settlement processing promoting content data in which only the predetermined time portion can be reproduced from the beginning of the content data.

  In step S146, the control unit 213a performs the reproduction time acquisition process shown in FIG. 46, and then moves the process to step S346.

  In step S346, the control unit 213a performs a viewing restriction comment reproduction process for reproducing a viewing restriction comment for indicating to the user of the terminal device 2a that the content to be reproduced is restricted.

  Specifically, when the payment processing content data is audio data, the audio data “This content is restricted for viewing” is reproduced, and when the payment processing promotion content data is image data, A process of reproducing character data “This content is restricted in viewing” is performed.

  Thereafter, the control unit 213a performs the process of reproducing the payment content data (step S147), and then moves the process to step S148.

  In step S148, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data is longer than the reproducible time described later, and the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data is determined from the reproducible time described later. Is determined to be longer (step S148: Yes), the process proceeds to step S158. If it is determined that the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data is shorter than the reproducible time described later (step S148: No), The process of step S148 is repeatedly performed.

  Further, in step S149, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the partial restriction mode is the random playback mode. If it is determined that the partial playback mode is the random playback mode (step S149: Yes), the process proceeds to step S150. If it is determined that the mode is not the random playback mode (step S148: No), the process proceeds to step S154.

  Here, the random playback mode is a mode for generating content data for promoting settlement processing that enables playback of only a predetermined time portion from a predetermined start position randomly selected from the content data.

  In step S150, the control unit 213a performs the process of acquiring the playback start position of the content data at random after performing the playback time acquisition process shown in FIG. 46 (step S151), and then moves the process to step S347.

  In step S347, the control unit 213a performs a viewing restriction comment reproduction process for reproducing a viewing restriction comment for indicating to the user of the terminal device 2a that the content to be reproduced is restricted.

  Specifically, when the payment processing content data is audio data, the audio data “This content is restricted for viewing” is reproduced, and when the payment processing promotion content data is image data, A process of reproducing character data “This content is restricted in viewing” is performed.

  Next, the control unit 213a performs a process of reproducing the payment process promoting content data for a predetermined time set in advance from the reproduction start position acquired in Step S151 (Step S152), and then moves the process to Step S153.

  In step S153, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data is longer than the reproducible time described later, and the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data is determined from the reproducible time described later. Is determined to be longer (step S153: Yes), the process proceeds to step S158. If it is determined that the reproduction time of the settlement processing promotion content data is shorter than the reproducible time described later (step S153: No), The process of step S153 is repeatedly performed.

  In step S154, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the partial restriction mode is the prelude mode. If it is determined that the prelude mode is the prelude mode (step S154: Yes), the process proceeds to step S155. If it is determined that this is not the case (step S154: No), the process proceeds to step S159.

  Here, the prelude mode is a mode in which, when the content to be distributed is a music piece, the content data for promoting settlement processing in which only the prelude portion of the content can be reproduced is reproduced, and the content to be reproduced is a video (movie, drama). ) Is a mode for reproducing the settlement processing promoting content data in which only the introductory part of the content can be reproduced.

  In step S155, the control unit 213a obtains the prelude end time from within the content data, performs the process of obtaining the playback time of the prelude from the prelude end time, and then moves the process to step S348.

  In step S348, the control unit 213a performs a viewing restriction comment reproduction process for reproducing a viewing restriction comment for indicating to the user of the terminal device 2a that the content to be reproduced is restricted.

  Specifically, when the payment processing content data is audio data, the audio data “This content is restricted for viewing” is reproduced, and when the payment processing promotion content data is image data, A process of reproducing character data “This content is restricted in viewing” is performed.

  Next, the control unit 213a performs a process (step S156) of reproducing the settlement process promoting content data that allows only the prelude part to be reproduced, and then moves the process to step S157.

  In step S157, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the playback time of the settlement processing promotion content data is longer than the playback time of the prelude acquired in step S155. If it is determined that it is longer than the time (step S157: Yes), the process proceeds to step S158, and if it is determined that the playback time of the settlement processing promotion content data is shorter than the prelude playback time (step S157: No), The process of step S157 is repeatedly performed.

  Further, in step S159, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the partial restriction mode is the chorus mode. If it is determined that the partial choke mode is the chorus mode (step S159: Yes), the process proceeds to step S160 and is not the chorus mode. If so (step S159: No), the process proceeds to step S165.

  The chorus mode here is a mode for playing content data for promoting settlement processing in which only the chorus part of the content can be played when the content to be delivered is a song, and the content to be delivered is a video (movie, drama). In this case, the payment processing promoting content data is played back so that only the climax part of the content can be played back.

  In step S160, the control unit 213a performs the process of acquiring the rust start position from the content data, then performs the process of acquiring the rust end position from the content data (step S161), and then performs the process of step S162. Move to.

  In step S162, the control unit 213a performs a process of acquiring the rust reproduction time from the rust start position acquired in step S160 and the rust end position acquired in step S161, and then moves the process to step S349.

  In step S349, the control unit 213a performs a viewing restriction comment reproduction process for reproducing a viewing restriction comment for indicating to the user of the terminal device 2a that the content to be reproduced is restricted.

  Specifically, when the payment processing content data is audio data, the audio data “This content is restricted for viewing” is reproduced, and when the payment processing promotion content data is image data, A process of reproducing character data “This content is restricted in viewing” is performed.

  Next, the control unit 213a performs a process of reproducing the settlement process promoting content data from the climax start position (step S163), and then moves the process to step S164.

  In step S164, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data is longer than the rust reproduction time acquired in step S162, and the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data is reproduced. If it is determined that it is longer than the time (step S164: Yes), the process proceeds to step S158, and if it is determined that the playback time of the settlement processing promotion content data is shorter than the rust playback time (step S164: No), The process of step S164 is repeatedly performed.

  Further, in step S165, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the partial restriction mode is the pre-rust mode. If it is determined that the partial restriction mode is the pre-rust mode (step S165: Yes), the process proceeds to step S166. If it is determined that the mode is not the pre-rust mode (step S165: No), the process proceeds to step S158.

  The pre-rust mode here is a mode for playing content data for promoting settlement processing that enables playback only before the rust portion of the content when the content to be delivered is a song, and the content to be delivered is a video In the case of (movie, drama), it is a mode for reproducing the settlement processing promoting content data that can be reproduced only before the climax part of the content.

  In step S166, the control unit 213a performs the process of obtaining the rust start position from the content data, and then calculates the time from the reproduction start position of the content data to before the climax start position based on the rust start position. (Step S167), and then the process proceeds to Step S350.

  In step S350, the control unit 213a performs viewing restriction comment reproduction processing for reproducing a viewing restriction comment for indicating to the user of the terminal device 2a that the content to be reproduced is restricted.

  Specifically, when the payment processing content data is audio data, the audio data “This content is restricted for viewing” is reproduced, and when the payment processing promotion content data is image data, A process of reproducing character data “This content is restricted in viewing” is performed.

  Next, the control unit 213a performs a process (step S168) of reproducing the settlement process promoting content data that can be reproduced up to before the climax start position, and then moves the process to step S169.

  In step S169, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the reproduction time of the payment processing promotion content data is longer than the reproduction time before the start of the chorus calculated in step S167, and reproduces the payment processing promotion content data. If it is determined that the time is longer than the playback time before the start of rust (step S169: Yes), the process proceeds to step S158, and the playback time of the settlement processing promotion content data is shorter than the playback time before the start of the rust Is determined (step S169: No), the process of step S169 is repeatedly performed.

  In step S158, the control unit 213a performs a process of ending the reproduction of each settlement process promotion content data, thereafter ends the partial restriction process, and moves the process to step S36 shown in FIG.

(Playback time acquisition process)
This reproduction time acquisition processing is processing performed in steps S146 and S150 shown in FIG. 44, and is performed by the control unit 213a according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 46, in the reproduction time acquisition process, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the fade-out mode is in the partial restriction mode (step S170), and determines that it is the fade-out mode (step S170: Yes) ), The process proceeds to step S171. If it is determined that the mode is not the fade-out mode (step S170: No), the process proceeds to step S173.

  Here, the fade-out mode is a mode in which the reproducible portion of the payment processing promoting content data is shortened step by step in accordance with the time after the start of the payment processing promoting content data reproducible period.

  In step S171, the control unit 213a performs the process of setting in the fade-out mode restriction data creation process and setting the restriction level to the partial restriction level, and then moves the process to step S172.

  Further, in step S173, the control unit 213a determines whether or not the constant deterioration mode in the partial restriction mode, and if it is determined that it is the constant deterioration mode (step S173: Yes), the process proceeds to step S174, If it is determined that the mode is not the constant deterioration mode (step S173: No), the process proceeds to step S172.

  Here, the constant deterioration mode is a mode in which the reproducible time of the settlement processing promoting content data is made constant regardless of the time after the reproducible period of the settlement processing promoting content data is started.

  In step S174, the control unit 213a performs the process of setting the partial restriction level to the default, and then moves the process to step S172.

  In step S172, the control unit 213a obtains the reproducible time of the settlement processing promotion content data from the partial restriction level, and then ends this replay time acquisition processing and proceeds to S346 shown in FIG. 44 or step S151. Transfer.

  As described above, according to the content distribution device 1 described in the first embodiment or the terminal device 2a described in the second embodiment, the payment processing status is set to the payment processing condition by the payment condition determination unit. When it is determined that the content is not satisfied, the content is not immediately made unusable, but the user is given a predetermined grace period to reproduce (use) the data subjected to various reproduction restriction processes. Therefore, it is possible to prompt the user to actively continue the content availability period.

  In the present embodiment, the user can use the content only for a predetermined available period by paying a predetermined fee for the desired content to the content distributor, and after the usable period expires. Even so, the description has been given by taking as an example an embodiment in which the content distribution device according to the present invention or the terminal device is applied to a content distribution system that can continue the usable period if an additional fee is paid However, the present invention is not limited to this, and can be applied to other content distribution systems.

  For example, the present invention can be applied to a content distribution system in which a plurality of types of content data can be used for a plurality of months by a user paying a fixed amount of usage fee to a content distribution company every month.

  When the present invention is applied to such a content distribution system, when it is determined by the payment condition determination means that the payment for the previous month has been delinquent, the user is not prohibited from using the content data. The content data with playback restrictions can be made available to the user by giving a certain grace period.

  As a result, it is possible to positively prompt the user to pay the usage fee that is delinquent.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the content delivery system in 1st Embodiment. It is a functional block diagram which shows schematic structure of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a functional block diagram which shows schematic structure of the terminal device in 1st Embodiment. It is a functional block diagram which shows schematic structure of the payment management apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main process of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content transmission process of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the reproduction | regeneration permission judgment processing of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the reproduction | regeneration permission judgment processing of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the viewing restriction process of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the kind of restriction | limiting mode. It is a flowchart which shows the random mode restriction data creation processing of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the fade-out mode restriction data creation process of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the fixed degradation mode restriction data creation process of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the frequency | count limitation process of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the period restriction | limiting process of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the sound quality restriction | limiting process of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the sound quality restriction | limiting process of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the partial restriction | limiting process of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the reproduction time acquisition process of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main process of the terminal device in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content request of the terminal device in 1st Embodiment, and a content reproduction process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the content delivery system in 2nd Embodiment. It is a functional block diagram which shows schematic structure of the content delivery apparatus in 2nd Embodiment. It is a functional block diagram which shows schematic structure of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a functional block diagram which shows schematic structure of the payment management apparatus in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main process of the content delivery apparatus in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content data transmission process of the content delivery apparatus in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the trial version data transmission process of the content delivery apparatus in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main process of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content data download process of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the reproduction | regeneration processing of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the charge check process of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the viewing-and-listening reproduction process of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the reproduction | regeneration permission judgment processing of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the reproduction | regeneration permission judgment processing of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the random mode reproduction | regeneration processing of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the fade-out mode reproduction | regeneration processing of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the fixed deterioration mode reproduction | regeneration processing of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the trial version mode reproduction | regeneration processing of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the frequency | count limitation process of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the period restriction | limiting process of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the sound quality restriction | limiting process of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the sound quality restriction | limiting process of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the partial restriction | limiting process of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the partial restriction | limiting process of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the reproduction time acquisition process of the terminal device in 2nd Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Content delivery apparatus 2 in 1st Embodiment Terminal apparatus 3 in 1st Embodiment Payment management apparatus 4 in 1st Embodiment Communication line 101 of 1st Embodiment CPU of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment
102 First Storage Unit 103 of Content Distribution Device in First Embodiment Second Storage Unit 113 of Content Distribution Device in First Embodiment Control Unit 201 of Content Distribution Device in First Embodiment Terminal Device in First Embodiment CPU
202 First storage unit 203 of the terminal device in the first embodiment Second storage unit 213 of the terminal device in the first embodiment Control unit 312 of the terminal device in the first embodiment Control of the payment management device in the first embodiment Part 1a Content distribution device 2a in the second embodiment Terminal device 3a in the second embodiment Payment management device 4a in the second embodiment Communication line 101a in the second embodiment CPU of the content distribution device in the second embodiment
102a First storage unit 103a of the content distribution device in the second embodiment Second storage unit 113a of the content distribution device in the second embodiment Control unit 201a of the content distribution device in the second embodiment Terminal device in the second embodiment CPU
202a First storage unit 203a of the terminal device in the second embodiment Second storage unit 213a of the terminal device in the second embodiment Control unit 312a of the terminal device in the second embodiment Control of the payment management device in the second embodiment Part

Claims (20)

Content distribution having distribution request receiving means for receiving a content distribution request including information related to a license from a terminal device via a network, and content distribution means for distributing content data corresponding to the content distribution request to the terminal device In the device
License information storage means for storing information relating to the license and a payment condition for the license in association with each other;
Payment processing status acquisition means for acquiring a payment processing status for the license;
Payment condition determination means for determining whether the payment processing status acquired by the payment processing status acquisition means satisfies the payment condition;
The content distribution means includes:
When the payment condition determination means determines that the payment process status does not satisfy the payment condition, the payment process different from the content data corresponding to the content distribution request is sent to the terminal device that has transmitted the content distribution request. A content distribution apparatus for distributing content data for promotion. A distribution restriction storage means for storing a distribution period and / or a distribution count of the settlement processing promotion content data;
2. The content distribution unit does not distribute the settlement processing promotion content data when it is determined that the distribution period and / or the number of distributions stored in the distribution restriction storage unit have been exceeded. The content distribution apparatus described in 1. A content storage unit that stores content related to content content corresponding to the content distribution request and stores related content data different from the content data;
3. The content according to claim 1, wherein the content distribution unit distributes the related content data stored in the related content storage unit to the terminal device as the settlement processing promotion content data. Distribution device. First content generating means for generating a part of content data corresponding to the content distribution request as the settlement processing promotion content data;
The content distribution device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the content distribution unit distributes the payment processing promotion content data generated by the first content generation unit to the terminal device. . Second content generating means for generating content data with degraded reproduction quality of content data corresponding to the content distribution request as the settlement processing promotion content data;
5. The content distribution device according to claim 1, wherein the content distribution unit distributes the payment processing promotion content data generated by the second content generation unit to the terminal device. . Related content storage means for storing related content data having contents related to the content data corresponding to the content distribution request and having different contents from the content data; and a part of the content data corresponding to the content distribution request. First content generation means for generating the settlement processing promotion content data, and second content generation for generating content data with degraded reproduction quality of the content data corresponding to the content distribution request as the settlement processing promotion content data Means,
The content distribution unit includes related content data stored in the related content storage unit, the payment processing promotion content data generated by the first content generation unit, and the payment generated by the second content generation unit. Content selection means for arbitrarily selecting any one content data from the processing promotion content data, and the content data selected by the content selection means to the terminal device as the settlement processing promotion content data The content distribution apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the content distribution apparatus distributes the content.   The said 2nd content production | generation means has a 1st degradation means which raises the degree of degradation of the said reproduction quality in steps according to the elapsed time from the start of the said delivery possible period, The Claim 5 or Claim characterized by the above-mentioned. Item 7. The content distribution device according to Item 6.   6. The second content generation means includes second deterioration means for gradually increasing the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality in accordance with an increase in the number of distributions of the settlement processing promotion content data. The content distribution device according to any one of? 7.   The said 2nd content production | generation means has a progress degradation means which raises the degree of degradation of the said reproduction quality in steps as the progress of the said payment processing promotion content data reproduction progresses. The content distribution apparatus according to claim 1.   The program for functioning a computer as each means of the delivery apparatus of any one of Claims 1-9. In a content reproduction apparatus comprising content acquisition means for acquiring content data and reproduction means for reproducing content data,
License information storage means for storing information relating to a license for reproducing the content data and a settlement condition for the license in association with each other;
Payment processing status acquisition means for acquiring a payment processing status for the license based on information on the license;
Payment condition determination means for determining whether the payment processing status acquired by the payment processing status acquisition means satisfies the payment condition;
Reproduction restriction means for restricting reproduction of the content data acquired by the content acquisition means,
The content reproduction apparatus, wherein the reproduction means reproduces content data subjected to reproduction restriction when the payment condition determination means determines that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment condition. Replay restriction storage means for storing a reproducible period and / or reproducible frequency of the content data subjected to the replay restriction,
When the reproduction restriction unit determines that the reproduction possible period and / or the reproduction possibility number stored in the reproduction restriction storage unit are exceeded, reproduction of the content data is not performed by not reproducing the content data subjected to the reproduction restriction. The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising first reproduction restriction means for restricting the content. The reproduction restricting means includes contents related to contents data corresponding to the content distribution request when the payment condition determining means determines that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment conditions. Related content requesting means for requesting the content distribution device to distribute related content data different in content,
Related content receiving means for receiving the related content data corresponding to the distribution request;
Related content storage means for storing the related content data received by the related content receiving means,
The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the reproduction unit reproduces the related content data stored in the related content storage unit as the content data subjected to the reproduction restriction.   14. The reproduction restriction unit according to claim 11, further comprising a second reproduction restriction unit that restricts only a part of the content data acquired by the content acquisition unit to be reproducible by the reproduction unit. The content reproduction device according to item.   15. The reproduction restriction unit includes a third reproduction restriction unit that restricts reproduction of the content data by degrading the reproduction quality of the content data acquired by the content acquisition unit. 2. The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 1. The reproduction restricting means includes contents related to contents data corresponding to the content distribution request when the payment condition determining means determines that the payment processing status does not satisfy the payment conditions. Related content requesting means for requesting the content distribution device to distribute related content data different in content,
Related content receiving means for receiving the related content data corresponding to the distribution request;
Related content storage means for storing the related content data received by the related content receiving means;
Second reproduction restriction means for restricting only a part of the content data acquired by the content acquisition means to be reproducible by the reproduction means;
Third reproduction restriction means for restricting reproduction of the content data by degrading the reproduction quality of the content data acquired by the content acquisition means;
The reproduction unit is any one of the related content data stored in the related content storage unit, the content data generated by the second reproduction restriction unit, and the content data generated by the third reproduction restriction unit. The content selection means for arbitrarily selecting one piece of content data, and the content data selected by the content selection means are reproduced as the content data subjected to the reproduction restriction. Content playback device.   The third reproduction limiting means includes first deterioration means for gradually increasing the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality in accordance with an elapsed time from the start of the reproducible period. The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 16.   The third reproduction restriction unit includes a second deterioration unit that gradually increases the degree of deterioration of the reproduction quality in accordance with an increase in the number of reproductions of the content data acquired by the content acquisition unit. The content reproduction device according to any one of claims 15 to 17.   The said 3rd reproduction | regeneration restriction | limiting means has a progress degradation means which raises the degree of degradation of the said reproduction quality in steps with progress of the said content data reproduction | regeneration, It is any one of Claims 15-18 characterized by the above-mentioned. The content reproduction device described.   The program for functioning a computer as each means of the reproducing | regenerating apparatus of any one of Claims 11-19.

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