JP2011041312A - Digital broadcast receiver - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a proper receiver for obtaining information of another device by exchanging information between a plurality of devices. <P>SOLUTION: In a system, a plurality of devices including one or more digital broadcast receivers 110a are connected by a control bus 10. The digital broadcast receiver 110a comprises a device data management section, a charging information management section for managing charging information, and a reception contract management section for managing information on reception contracts. When additionally connecting a digital broadcast receiver, existing subscription information is acquired from the other digital broadcast receivers. All or a part of the information is set and transmitted to a broadcast providing source. Furthermore, the state of use is inquired from a digital broadcast receiver to the other digital broadcast receiver and displayed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a receiving apparatus capable of receiving a digital signal, and more particularly to a receiving apparatus suitable for application to exchange of accounting information and the like between a plurality of devices.

  In recent years, digital broadcasting services using communication satellites (CS) have been started in Europe and the United States. In Japan, CS digital multi-channel broadcasting has been started since 1996, and various digital broadcasting services will be started in the future. As current services, in addition to free broadcasts, pay broadcasts that require a subscription contract, and PPV (pay per view) broadcasts that pay a viewing fee for the amount of viewing are provided. In order to use these services, it is necessary to set a viewing IC card for storing reception contract information and billing information in the digital broadcast receiver. This billing information is periodically notified to the broadcast provider via a telephone line from a modem in the digital broadcast receiver.

  In Europe and the United States, in addition to this IC card for viewing, a digital broadcast receiver with a double slot for simultaneously setting IC cards such as bank cards, credit cards, and electronic money, and an IC card with an electronic money function attached to a viewing IC card Digital broadcast receivers that set (one) have been developed.

  Here, in the current digital broadcasting receiving system, a receiving contract is required for each digital broadcasting receiver in order to view pay broadcasting or PPV. Therefore, a contract is required every time a new digital broadcast receiver is purchased in the home, which is troublesome.

  In order to view PPV broadcasts, it is necessary to connect a digital broadcast receiver to a telephone line in order to notify billing information to the broadcast provider. Therefore, in order to install a plurality of digital broadcast receivers, it is necessary to consider the arrangement and connection configuration considering the connection with the telephone line.

  Furthermore, if there are a plurality of digital broadcast receivers in the home, each billing information is individually managed, making it difficult to grasp the overall usage status.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a receiving device that is easy to use.

  In order to solve the above problems, the technical idea described in the claims may be used.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the convenient receiving apparatus which can obtain the information of another apparatus by exchanging information between apparatuses can be provided.

It is a block diagram which shows one Example of the digital broadcast receiving system by this invention. It is a block diagram which shows one Example of the digital broadcast receiver by this invention. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram showing an embodiment of a device data configuration managed by a device data management unit, and a configuration diagram showing an example of device data. It is a flowchart which shows one Example of the automatic contract processing procedure at the time of additionally connecting a digital broadcasting receiver. It is a block diagram which shows one Example of the display screen of the digital broadcasting receiver at the time of an automatic contract process start. It is a block diagram which shows one Example of the contract content selection display screen at the time of an automatic contract process. It is a block diagram which shows one Example of the display screen at the time of completion | finish of an automatic contract process. It is a flowchart which shows one Example of the procedure which displays the utilization condition of pay broadcasting on a digital broadcast receiver. It is a block diagram which shows one Example of the menu screen of a digital broadcast receiver, and a block diagram which shows one Example of the digital broadcast receiver screen which displays the utilization condition of pay broadcasting. It is the block diagram which shows one Example of the utilization condition data of pay broadcasting, and the block diagram which shows the example of the data. It is a block diagram which shows one Example of the digital broadcast receiver screen which displays the utilization condition of the whole system.

  Embodiments of a digital broadcast receiving system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a digital broadcast receiving system according to the present invention. The figure shows a receiving system used in one house 100. A digital broadcasting program using a communication satellite or terrestrial waves, for example, a Perfec TV signal and a Direct TV signal are transmitted via an antenna 101. It is received by the digital broadcast receivers 110a to 110b and the TV 130 (hereinafter referred to as an integrated TV 130) incorporating the digital broadcast receiver, and displayed on the TVs 120a and 120b and the integrated TV 130. The receivers 110a and 110b and the integrated TV 130 are connected by a bus 10, such as an IEEE 1394 serial bus or a USB bus.

  Assuming a digital broadcast receiving system at home, in this case, the digital broadcast receiver 110a and the TV 120a are installed in the room 21, the digital broadcast receiver 110b and the TV 120b are installed in the room 22, and the integrated type 130 is installed in the room 23. Shall. The integrated TV 130 is connected to the public line 132 via a modem (not shown). In each home, other devices such as a VTR and a DVD may be connected to the TVs 120a, 102b, and 130 in addition to these devices.

  Next, an embodiment of the digital broadcast receivers 110a and 110b (hereinafter simply referred to as the digital broadcast receiver 110 except when referring to individual digital broadcast receivers) will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a digital broadcast receiver according to the present invention. In the figure, the digital broadcast receiver 110 and the integrated TV 130 are composed of a main body unit 200 and an IC card unit 250.

  First, the main unit 200 includes a receiving unit 201, a descrambling unit 202, a designated program separating unit 203, an output format converting unit 204, an encryption / decryption converting unit 205, an output unit 206, a command input / output unit 207, a communication unit 208, a device. A data management unit 209, an authentication processing unit 210, an IC card I / F unit 211, and a control unit 212 are configured.

  The receiving unit 201 selects a desired channel and demodulates the digitally modulated signal.

  The descrambling unit 202 cancels the scramble to make it possible to receive only the channel for which the broadcast provider has received a reception contract.

  The designated program separation unit 203 extracts video / audio data corresponding to a desired broadcast program from the multiplexed broadcast program data.

  The output format conversion unit 204 converts the received desired broadcast program data into an output format desired by another device (such as a playback device or a recording device).

  The encryption / decryption conversion unit 205 transmits data to prevent unauthorized acquisition of data during transmission and reception of broadcast program data and various commands with other devices (such as a playback device and a recording device). Encryption processing is performed on the command and command, and decryption processing is performed on the received data and command.

  The output unit 206 outputs broadcast program data to the bus 10 or other devices (such as a playback device or a recording device) connected via another transmission path.

  The command input / output unit 207 transmits / receives various commands to / from other devices (such as a playback device and a recording device) connected via the bus 10.

  The communication unit 208 is a part that transmits a program request command, billing information, and the like to the broadcast provider, and is connected to the public line 132.

  The device data management unit 209 manages device data necessary for transmitting / receiving contract information and billing information to / from other digital broadcast receivers connected via the bus 10.

  The authentication processing unit 210 authenticates whether or not the broadcast program data output destination device is a device that has been authorized and manufactured (that is, a device that does not perform illegal viewing or illegal copying). To do.

  The IC card I / F unit 211 transmits and receives various data and commands to and from the IC card unit 250.

  The control unit 212 controls the operation of each unit in the main body unit 200 and the IC card unit 250 in an integrated manner.

  Next, the IC card unit 250 includes an accounting information management unit 251, an authentication processing unit 252, a reception contract management unit 253, a main body I / F unit 254, an encryption / decryption conversion unit 255, and an IC card control unit 256.

  The billing information management unit 251 manages information to be billed when viewing or recording pay broadcasting or PPV.

  The authentication processing unit 252 authenticates the main body unit 200 that it is a device manufactured with proper authorization (that is, a device that does not tamper with billing information or contract information).

  The reception contract management unit 253 manages information related to the reception contract with the broadcast provider.

  The main body I / F unit 254 transmits and receives various data and commands to and from the main body unit 200.

  When transmitting / receiving various data and commands to / from the main body unit 200, the encryption / decryption conversion unit 255 performs encryption processing on the data and commands to be transmitted in order to prevent unauthorized acquisition of the data and commands. The decryption process is performed on the received data and commands.

  The IC card control unit 256 controls the operation of each unit in the IC card unit 250.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, by providing the equipment data management unit 209 inside the main body of the digital broadcast receiver 110 and the integrated TV 130, contract information and other digital broadcast receivers connected by the bus 10 can be obtained. Billing information can be exchanged.

  Here, the configuration of the integrated TV 130 includes the configuration of the digital broadcast receiver 110, and naturally includes the configuration shown in FIG.

  Next, a configuration example of the device data 300 managed by the device data management unit 209 in the digital broadcast receiver 110 or the integrated TV 130 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3A is a configuration diagram showing an embodiment of a device data configuration managed by the device data management unit, and FIG. 3B is a configuration diagram showing an example of device data.

  The device data 300 includes a tuner type 301, a modem status 302, an IC card status 303, a protect 304, a center communication device ID 305, and a communication proxy device ID 306.

  The tuner type 301 indicates the type of broadcast service system handled by the digital broadcast receiver 110 or the integrated TV 130 (for example, identification information indicating a difference in system between broadcasters).

  The modem status 302 is the operation state of the communication unit 208 of the digital broadcast receiver 110 or the integrated TV 130, that is, whether the modem of the communication unit 208 is connected or in operation, and the connection with the public line 132. Indicates the state.

  The IC card status 303 indicates whether or not an IC card is set in the digital broadcast receiver 110 or the integrated TV 130.

  The protect 304 restricts access of contract information and billing information from other digital broadcast receivers connected via the bus 10. For example, it is checked whether or not the IC card of the integrated TV 130 may be read by the receiver 110a, and if it is not desired to be read, this is restricted, or the receiver 110b wants to read billing information and contract information. If not, protection such as limiting the reading is performed.

  The center communication device ID 305 indicates an identifier of a device that actually performs communication via the public line 132 when the digital broadcast receiver 110 or the integrated TV 130 communicates with the broadcast provider. For example, when a digital broadcast receiver whose communication unit 208 is not connected to the public line 132 wants to communicate with the broadcast provider, the digital broadcast receiver connected to the public line 132 on the same bus, or one Ask body TV 130 for it. In this case, the ID of the digital broadcast receiver 110 or the integrated TV 130 connected to the public line 132 is shown.

  The communication proxy device ID 306 indicates the identifier of the digital broadcast receiver 110 or other device that requests the integrated TV 130 to communicate with the broadcast provider.

  Next, an automatic reception contract procedure when a digital broadcast receiver newly purchased by the user or an integrated TV is additionally connected will be described with reference to FIGS. For the sake of clarity, a description will be given assuming that a new digital broadcast receiver 110b is additionally connected in a system in which the digital broadcast receiver 110a and the integrated type 130 are already installed.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of an automatic contract processing procedure when a digital broadcast receiver is additionally connected, and FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a display screen of the digital broadcast receiver at the start of automatic contract processing. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a contract content selection display screen during automatic contract processing. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a display screen at the end of automatic contract processing.

  First, when the added digital broadcast receiver 110b is connected to the digital broadcast reception system, the system configuration changes, and thus a bus reset process is performed. In step 401, when all bus reset processing is completed, the connection configuration of all devices is determined and addresses are assigned to the respective devices, the process proceeds to step 402, where the control unit 212 of the digital broadcast receiver 110b Through the command input / output unit 207, all devices on the bus (in FIG. 1, the receiver 110a and the integrated TV 130, although the TVs 120a and 120b may or may not be connected by the bus). On the other hand, an acquisition request for device data 300 is issued. In step 403, among the devices that have received the acquisition request, at least the device having the device data management unit 209, that is, the device having the device data 300 (in FIG. 1, the receiver 110 a and the integrated TV 130) 300 is read out and transmitted to the digital broadcast receiver 110b. The digital broadcast receiver 110b refers to the IC card status 303 in the received device data 300, and extracts the device in which the IC card has been set. Further, in step 404, the protect 304 is referred to and an unprotected device is extracted. If one or more devices can be extracted, a screen 500 is displayed to the user indicating that various procedures for performing an automatic contract are to be performed from now on as shown in FIG.

  Next, in step 405, the authentication processing unit 210 manufactures the devices (the receiver 110 a in FIG. 1 and the integrated TV 130) that are extracted via the command input / output unit 207 after receiving proper authorization. Authenticate whether the device is a registered device. If it is a legitimate device, the process proceeds to step 406, and a contract information acquisition request is issued to the extracted device via the command input / output unit 207. At this time, the acquisition request command is encrypted by the encryption / decryption conversion unit 206 of the receiver 110b and transmitted. However, when simplification is considered, it is not always necessary to encrypt.

  When the received command is encrypted, the control unit 212 of the main body unit 200 of the device (receiver 110a or integrated TV 130) that has received the acquisition request decrypts the command using the encryption / decryption conversion unit 206. After that, the acquisition request is issued to the IC card unit 250 via the IC card I / F unit 211.

  The IC card control unit 256 that has received this acquisition request authenticates whether the main body unit 200 is a device that has been properly certified and manufactured by the authentication processing unit 252. The reception contract information managed by the management unit 253 is encrypted by the encryption / decryption conversion unit 255 and transmitted to the main body unit 200 via the main body I / F unit 254.

  The control unit 212 of the main unit 200 of the device (the receiver 110a or the integrated TV 130) that has received the reception contract information transmits the contract information to the digital broadcast receiver 110b via the command input / output unit 207.

  The control unit 212 of the digital broadcast receiver 110b that has received the contract information from the devices (the receiver 110a and the integrated TV 130) transmits the contract information to the I / C card unit via the I / C card I / F unit 211. 250. Receiving the contract information, the I / C card control unit 256 combines the contract information with the encryption / decryption conversion unit 255 and transmits the contract information that can be displayed to the main unit 200 via the main unit I / F unit 254. . Upon receiving this displayable contract information, the control unit 212 displays the contents for the user in step 407 and selects the contents to be actually contracted.

  FIG. 6 shows a screen 600 that is actually displayed to the user. On this screen 600, the user selects and decides the contents to be contracted with the digital broadcast receiver 110b using a remote controller or the like (not shown).

  After the user selects the contract content, the control unit 212 of the digital broadcast receiver 110b issues a request for setting the determined contract information to the IC card unit 250 via the IC card I / F unit 211. . At this time, the contract information and the setting request command are encrypted by the encryption / decryption conversion unit 206 and transmitted.

  Upon receiving this setting request, the IC card control unit 256 authenticates with the authentication processing unit 252 whether the main body unit 200 of the digital broadcast receiver 110b is a device that has been properly certified and manufactured. If it is a legitimate device, in step 408, the contract information is set in the reception contract management unit 253 of the receiver 110b, that is, a writing process is performed, and a notification that a new reception contract is to be made is broadcast to the main body unit 200. Request to notify the provider. In step 409, the control unit 212 of the digital broadcast receiver 110 b checks whether the communication unit 208 is connected to the public line 132. As a result, when connected to the public line 132, the process proceeds to step 410, and the broadcast provider is notified of a new reception contract via the communication unit 208 of the receiver 110b. Then, the user ID is set in the center communication device ID 305 of the device data 300 managed by the device data management unit 209 of the receiver 110b.

  If not connected to the public line 132, the modem status 302 of the device data 300 acquired in advance is referred to, and the device currently connected to the public line 132 is extracted. In step 411, the extracted device ID is set in the center communication device ID 305 of the device data 300 of the reception 110b, and at the same time, the device requests a proxy for communication with the broadcast provider via the command input / output unit 207. . In the device that has received this request, the ID of the digital broadcast receiver 110 b is set in the communication proxy device ID 306 of its own device data 300. In step 412, the broadcast provider is notified that a new reception contract is to be made on behalf of the digital broadcast receiver 110b. When the notification to the broadcast provider ends, as shown in FIG. 7, the user is notified that the automatic contract has ended.

  As described above, in this embodiment, in a system in which one or more digital broadcast receivers are connected to a TV, a recording device, etc. via a control bus, device data management is performed in the digital broadcast receivers 110a and 110b and the integrated TV 130. A portion 210 is provided. As described above, when a digital broadcast receiver is newly connected to this system, reception contract information that has already been contracted is acquired from another digital broadcast receiver, and some or all of them are set. Write to the IC card. Then, the contents to be newly contracted are notified to the broadcast provider. As a result, it is possible to save the trouble of receiving contracts that are individually required by purchasing a plurality of digital broadcast receivers, thereby reducing the burden on the user.

  Further, by providing the center communication device ID 305 and the communication proxy device ID 306 in the device data 300, the digital broadcast receiver not connected to the public line 132 provides broadcast to the digital broadcast receiver indicated by the center communication device ID 305. You can request a proxy for communication with the source. As a result, even if there are a plurality of digital broadcast receivers, any one of them may be connected to the public line 132, and there is no need to consider the arrangement and connection configuration considering the connection with the public line 132. Note that step 405 and step 406 may be in any order.

  Next, a procedure for grasping the usage status of pay broadcasting in the entire system by using any digital broadcasting receiver connected by bus will be described with reference to FIGS. As an example, a case will be described in which a usage status display is instructed by the user on the digital broadcast receiver 110a.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of a procedure for displaying the usage status of the pay broadcast on the digital broadcast receiver, FIG. 9A is a block diagram showing an example of the menu screen of the digital broadcast receiver, and FIG. Is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a digital broadcast receiver screen that displays the usage status of the pay broadcast, FIG. 10A is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the usage status data of the pay broadcast, and FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a digital broadcast receiver screen displaying the usage status of the entire system.

  First, in step 801, when the user opens the menu screen 1000 in FIG. 9A using the digital broadcast receiver 110a, selects the usage status 1001 and instructs display of the usage status of the pay broadcast, in step 802. The digital broadcast receiver 110a inquires of the user whether the usage status to be displayed is the usage status of the receiver itself or the usage status of the entire system. FIG. 9B shows this screen 1010.

  When the user designates the entire system 1012 on the usage status screen 1010, in step 803, the device data 300 is obtained for all devices on the bus 10 (in FIG. 1, the digital broadcast receiver 110b and the integrated TV 130). Issue a request. Among the devices that have received this acquisition request, the device having the device data 300 (in FIG. 1, the digital broadcast receiver 110b and the integrated TV 130) transmits the device data 300 to the digital broadcast receiver 110a. However, it is not always necessary to perform encryption in order to reduce the load on the transceiver.

  In step 804, the digital broadcast receiver 110a refers to the IC card status 303 in the received device data 300, extracts the device in which the IC card unit 250 has been set, refers to the protect 304 in step 805, and protects it. Extract devices that are not covered. In step 806, the authentication processing unit 210 authenticates whether the extracted device (in FIG. 1, the digital broadcast receiver 110b and the integrated TV 130) is a device that has been properly certified and manufactured. If it is a legitimate device, in step 807, a usage status data acquisition request is issued to these devices via the command input / output unit 207. In this case, the acquisition request command is encrypted by the encryption / decryption conversion unit 206 and transmitted.

  The control unit 212 of the main body unit 200 of the devices 110b and 130 that has received the acquisition request decrypts the command by the encryption / decryption conversion unit 206 if necessary, and then via the IC card I / F unit 211. This acquisition request is issued to the IC card unit 250.

  Upon receiving this acquisition request, the IC card control unit 256 authenticates whether the main body unit 200 is a device that has been properly authorized and manufactured by the authentication processing unit 252, and if it is a legitimate device, the billing information management unit 251. Usage status data is created from the billing information managed in step, encrypted by the encryption / decryption conversion unit 255, and transmitted to the main unit 200 via the main unit I / F unit 254.

  The device that has received the usage status data, that is, the receiver 110b and the control unit 212 of the main body 200 of the integrated TV 130 transmits the usage status data to the digital broadcast receiver 110a via the command input / output unit 207.

  As shown in FIG. 10A, the usage status data 900 includes a device ID 901, a usage date 902, an amount 903, a payment method 904, a payment status 905, and details 906. Specifically, the usage status data 900 is displayed as shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 10A, a device ID 901 indicates an identifier of a device that uses pay broadcasting. For example, in the case of the integrated type 103, ID0005 is set. The use date 902 indicates the date on which the pay broadcast is used. The amount 903 indicates the amount of the purchased pay broadcast. A payment method 904 indicates a method for paying the purchase amount of the pay broadcast. For example, automatic debit from a bank account, credit, electronic money and the like. The payment status 905 indicates the current payment status. Details 906 indicate information related to the used pay broadcast. For example, a program name, a channel number, etc. are mentioned.

  In step 808, the digital broadcast receiver 110a that has received the usage status data 900 from another device on the bus, such as the digital broadcast receiver 110b and the integrated TV 130, receives the IC card unit 250 set therein. Issue a usage status data acquisition request. Then, the IC card control unit 256 of the IC card unit 250 authenticates whether the main body unit 200 is a device that has been authorized and manufactured by the authentication processing unit 252. Usage status data is created from the billing information managed by the unit 251, encrypted by the encryption / decryption conversion unit 255, and transmitted to the main unit 200 via the main unit I / F unit 254.

  After that, in step 809, the control unit 212 of the digital broadcast receiver 110a creates a display screen from the usage status data 900 of other devices acquired in step 807 and the usage status data 900 of itself acquired in step 808, and the TV 120 To display.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of a screen 1100 that is actually displayed to the user.

  When the user selects the book set 1011 on the selection screen 1010 in FIG. 9B in step 802 of the flowchart in FIG. 8, the flow jumps to step 808.

  As described above, in this embodiment, a digital broadcast receiver can inquire about the usage status from another digital broadcast receiver and display it to the user. Thereby, even if each billing information is managed individually, it is possible to grasp the entire usage status.

  In the description of the embodiment of the digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to the present invention, the digital broadcast receiver and the integrated TV have been described separately. However, the digital broadcast receiving apparatus includes both of these and devices having similar functions.

  As is apparent from the above description, according to the present invention, the device data management unit 210 is provided in a digital broadcast receiver having a function of receiving a program distributed by a digital broadcast service. When a new digital broadcast receiver is connected in a system in which one or more digital broadcast receivers are connected to a TV, a recording device, etc., a reception that has already been contracted from another digital broadcast receiver. The contract information is acquired and written on an IC card in which some or all of the contract information is set. Then, the broadcast provider is notified that a new contract is desired with the written contents. As a result, it is possible to save the trouble of receiving contracts which are individually required by purchasing a plurality of digital broadcast receivers, and the burden on the user is reduced.

  Also, by providing a center communication device and a communication proxy device in the device data, a digital broadcast receiver not connected to the public line can communicate with the broadcast provider to the digital broadcast receiver indicated by the center communication device. A proxy can be requested. As a result, even if there are a plurality of digital broadcast receivers, any one of them may be connected to the public line, and there is no need to consider the arrangement and connection configuration considering the connection with the public line.

  Furthermore, it is possible to inquire about the usage status of the pay broadcast from a digital broadcast receiver to another digital broadcast receiver and display it to the user. Thereby, even if each billing information is managed individually, it is possible to grasp the entire usage status.

  The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to this embodiment can also be expressed as follows. For example, means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video / audio data, means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data, means for expanding the extracted desired compressed video / audio data, Means for outputting a contract information acquisition request command with a program distributor to another device via a bus, and means for receiving the contract information from the other device via a bus Yes.

  Further, in the digital broadcast receiving apparatus of the present embodiment, means for managing contract information between the program distributor and the user side, and means for receiving a contract information request command from another device via the bus And means for determining whether or not to transmit the contract information to another device, and means for transmitting the determined result via the bus. Furthermore, in the present invention, means for communicating with the program distribution source, means for inquiring whether other devices can communicate with the program distribution source via the bus, and a result of the inquiry Receiving means.

  In addition, the digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to the present embodiment receives means for communicating with a program distribution source and an inquiry about whether or not communication with the current program distribution source is possible from another device via a bus. Means and means for transmitting an answer to the inquiry.

  Furthermore, the digital broadcast receiving apparatus of this embodiment has means for communicating with the program distribution source. Furthermore, a means for transmitting an acquisition request for usage status data including at least billing information to another device via the bus and a means for receiving usage status data are provided.

  Preferably, means for communicating with a program distribution source, means for receiving a usage status data acquisition request including at least billing information from another device via a bus, and the use for other devices Means for determining whether or not to transmit status data, and means for transmitting the usage status data to another device.

In a preferred form of the digital broadcast receiving system according to the present embodiment, a plurality of devices are connected by bus, and the digital broadcast receiving apparatus includes the following means in a digital broadcast receiving system including one or more digital broadcast receiving apparatuses.
(1) Program receiving means for selecting a desired channel from a plurality of channels and demodulating a program modulated by a predetermined modulation method,
(2) Program separation means for extracting video / audio data corresponding to a desired program from the multiplexed and compressed program,
(3) Output format conversion means for determining and converting the output format when outputting to other devices;
(4) When other device video / audio data and various commands are transmitted or received, encryption processing is performed on the video / audio data and commands to be transmitted in order to prevent unauthorized acquisition of data in the middle. Encryption / decryption conversion means for performing decryption processing on the received command;
(5) Command input / output means for inputting / outputting various commands to / from other devices,
(6) means for accessing the broadcast provider for transmitting a program request command, billing information, etc. with the broadcast provider;
(7) a first authentication means for authenticating whether or not the other device has been properly authorized and manufactured when outputting video / audio data to the other device;
(8) Device data management means for managing information (device data) necessary for exchanging contract information and billing information with other devices,
(9) IC card communication means for transmitting and receiving various data and commands to and from the IC card set in the main body of the device,
(10) Control means for controlling the operation of each means.

Further, this IC card is provided with the following means.
(11) Reception contract management means for managing reception contract information with a broadcast provider,
(12) Billing information management means for managing billing information such as pay broadcasting and PPV;
(13) a second authentication means for authenticating whether the first device on which the IC card is set is one that has been authorized and manufactured;
(14) When contract information or billing information data or various commands are transmitted or received between the IC card and the main body of the device, encryption processing is performed on the contract information or billing information data or various commands; Encryption / decryption conversion means for decrypting received contract information, billing information data and various commands,
(15) Main unit communication means for transmitting / receiving various data and commands to / from the main unit,
(16) Control means for controlling the operation of each means of the IC card described above.

In a system including the first digital broadcast receiving device (first device) having the above-described configuration, a new second digital broadcast receiving device (second device) is additionally connected, and a reception contract for this device is received. If you do
When the second device is connected to the bus, the second device issues a device data acquisition request to all devices connected to the bus via the command input / output means.

  The first device that has received this acquisition request transmits the device data managed using the device data management means to the second device via the command input / output means.

  The second device that has received the device data uses the control means to determine whether the first device has an IC card set, and between the first device with the IC card already set, The first authentication unit is used to authenticate whether the first device is a device that has been authorized and manufactured. If it is a legitimate device, it issues a reception contract information acquisition request to the first device via the command input / output means.

  The first device that has received the acquisition request issues a reception contract information acquisition request to the set IC card via the IC card communication means.

  The IC card uses the second authentication means to authenticate whether the first device is a device that has been properly authorized and manufactured, and then reads the reception contract information managed using the reception contract management means. The reception contract information is encrypted using the encryption / decryption conversion means and transmitted to the first device via the main body communication means.

  The first device that has received the reception contract information transmits it to the second device via the command input / output means.

  The second device issues a reception contract setting request received from the first device to the set IC card via the IC card communication means.

  The IC card uses the second authentication means to authenticate whether or not the second device is an authorized and manufactured device, and then sets reception contract information using the reception contract management means.

  When the usage status is grasped between the devices connected to the bus, if the instruction for displaying the usage status of the entire system is instructed to an arbitrary digital broadcast receiving apparatus (first device), the first device will receive command input / output means. The device data acquisition request is issued to all devices connected to the bus, and the second device in which the IC card is set is extracted based on the acquired device data. The first authenticating means is used to authenticate whether the device has been authorized and manufactured. If it is a legitimate device, a usage status data acquisition request is issued via the command input / output means.

  The second device that has received the acquisition request issues a charging information acquisition request to the set IC card via the IC card communication means.

  The IC card uses the second authentication means to authenticate that the first device is a device that has been authorized and manufactured, and then reads the billing information managed using the billing information management means, The billing information is encrypted using the encryption / decryption conversion means and transmitted to the second device via the main body communication means.

  The second device transmits the received charging information to the first device via the command input / output means, and the first device that has received the charging information displays it on the display.

  110a, 110b ... digital broadcast receiver, 130 ... digital broadcast receiver built-in TV, 200 ... main body unit, 201 ... receiving unit, 202 ... descrambling unit, 203 ... designated program separating unit, 204 ... output format converting unit, 205 ... Encryption / decryption conversion unit, 206 ... output unit, 207 ... command input / output unit, 208 ... communication unit, 209 ... device data management unit, 210 ... authentication processing unit, 211 ... IC card I / F unit, 212 ... control unit, 250: IC card unit, 251 ... billing information management unit, 252 ... authentication processing unit, 253 ... reception contract management unit, 254 ... main body I / F unit, 255 ... encryption / decryption conversion unit, 256 ... IC card control unit .

Claims (40)

Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video and audio data;
Means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data;
Means for decompressing the extracted desired compressed video / audio data;
Means for outputting a request for acquiring contract information with the program distribution source to other devices via the bus;
Means for receiving the contract information from the other device via the bus;
A digital broadcast receiving apparatus comprising: The digital broadcast receiver according to claim 1, wherein
A digital broadcast receiving apparatus comprising means for outputting the desired video / audio data to the other device. The digital broadcast receiver according to claim 1, wherein
A digital broadcast receiving apparatus comprising means for storing the contract information. The digital broadcast receiver according to claim 3, wherein
Means for displaying the contract information;
And a means for selecting desired contract information on the screen from the displayed contract information. The digital broadcast receiver according to claim 1, wherein
A digital broadcast receiving apparatus comprising a display for displaying the contract information. Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video and audio data;
Means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data;
Means for decompressing the extracted desired compressed video / audio data;
Means for managing contract information between the program distributor and the user;
Means for receiving a request command for the contract information from another device via a bus;
Means for determining whether to transmit the contract information to the other device;
Means for transmitting the determined result via the bus;
A digital broadcast receiving apparatus comprising: The digital broadcast receiver according to claim 6, wherein
A digital broadcast receiving apparatus, comprising: means for transmitting the contract information when it is determined to transmit the contract information to the other device. Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video / audio data, means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data, means for expanding the extracted desired compressed video / audio data, via a bus Means for outputting a contract information acquisition request command with a program distributor to another device, a first device comprising means for receiving the contract information,
Means for receiving time-division-multiplexed compressed video / audio data; means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data; means for expanding the extracted desired compressed video / audio data; Means for outputting desired data to another device, means for managing contract information between the program distribution source and the user, and the contract information from the first device via the bus. Means for receiving an acquisition request command; means for determining whether to transmit the contract information to the first device; second device comprising means for transmitting the determined result;
A digital broadcast receiving system comprising: Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video and audio data;
Means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data;
Means for decompressing the extracted desired compressed video / audio data;
Means for inquiring to the other device via the bus whether it is currently communicable with the program distributor;
Means for receiving results for the query;
A digital broadcast receiver characterized by comprising: The digital broadcast receiver according to claim 9, wherein
Means for selecting one of the devices currently communicable with the program distribution source from the received results;
Means for issuing a proxy request for communication to the selected device via the bus;
Means for receiving a result of determining whether or not proxy communication can be performed in response to the proxy request from the selected device;
A digital broadcast receiver characterized by comprising:   11. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising means for storing information relating to the selected device.   12. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising means for transmitting information to be sent to the program provider to the selected device via the bus.   13. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising means for receiving a transmission result from the selected device to the program provider. Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video and audio data;
Means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data;
Means for decompressing the extracted desired compressed video / audio data;
Means for communicating with the program distributor;
Means for receiving an inquiry about whether or not communication with the current program distribution source is possible from another device via the bus;
Means for sending an answer to the inquiry;
A digital broadcast receiver characterized by comprising: Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video and audio data;
Means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data;
Means for decompressing the extracted desired compressed video / audio data;
Means for communicating with the program distributor;
Means for receiving a proxy communication request to a program distribution source from another device via the bus;
Means for determining whether communication is possible on behalf of the other device;
Means for transmitting the determined result to the other device;
A digital broadcast receiver characterized by comprising:   16. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 15, further comprising means for executing the proxy communication.   17. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 15 or 16, further comprising means for storing information relating to the other device. Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video / audio data; means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data; means for expanding the extracted desired compressed video / audio data; Means for communicating with other devices via a bus, means for inquiring whether or not communication with the current program distribution source is possible, means for receiving a result of the inquiry, from the received result Means for selecting one of the devices currently communicable with the program distribution source, means for issuing a proxy request for communication to the other device via the bus, and communicating with the request by proxy A first device comprising means for receiving the result of determining whether or not it is possible;
Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video / audio data; means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data; means for expanding the extracted desired compressed video / audio data; Means for communicating with the device, means for receiving a proxy communication request for the program distribution source from the first device via the bus, means for determining whether or not communication can be performed on behalf of the device, and a result of the determination Means for transmitting to the first device, a second device comprising means for executing communication on behalf of the first device,
A digital broadcast receiving system comprising: Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video and audio data;
Means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data;
Means for decompressing the extracted desired compressed video / audio data;
Means for communicating with the program distributor;
Means for generating a usage status data acquisition request including at least billing information to other devices via the bus;
Means for receiving the usage data;
A digital broadcast receiver characterized by comprising:   20. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 19, further comprising means for displaying the received usage status data. Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video and audio data;
Means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data;
Means for decompressing the extracted desired compressed video / audio data;
Means for receiving a usage status data acquisition request including at least billing information from another device via the bus;
Means for determining whether to transmit the usage data to the other device;
Means for transmitting the usage status data to the other device;
A digital broadcast receiver characterized by comprising: Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video / audio data, means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data, means for expanding the extracted desired compressed video / audio data, via a bus A first device comprising: means for issuing an acquisition request for usage status data including at least billing information to another device; means for receiving the usage status data; and means for displaying the usage status data;
Means for receiving time-division multiplexed compressed video / audio data transmitted in a predetermined channel and modulated by a predetermined modulation method, means for extracting desired compressed video / audio data from the compressed video / audio data, Means for expanding the extracted desired compressed video / audio data; means for receiving an acquisition request for usage data including billing information from the first device via the bus; Means for determining whether to transmit the usage status data; a second device comprising means for transmitting the usage status data to the device;
A digital broadcast receiving system comprising: Program receiving means for selecting and demodulating a desired channel from a plurality of multiplexed channels;
Input / output means for exchanging information with other devices via a bus;
A reception contract management means for managing reception contract information with a broadcast provider;
Control means for controlling each means;
A digital broadcast receiver characterized by comprising:   24. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 23, further comprising device data management means for managing the type of device and the state of the device.   24. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 23, further comprising an encryption / decryption conversion unit that encrypts information to be transmitted to the other device and decrypts the encrypted information transmitted from the other device. A digital broadcast receiver characterized by the above.   24. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 23, further comprising authentication processing means for authenticating whether or not the other device is manufactured with proper authorization.   24. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 23, wherein communication means for performing communication with the broadcast provider is provided, and contract contents are transmitted to the broadcast provider.   24. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the input / output means is command input / output means for exchanging commands with the other device.   24. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 23, wherein said program receiving means selects and demodulates a transmitted digital broadcast signal, a descrambling unit for descrambling the demodulated signal, and a descrambled unit. A digital broadcast receiving apparatus comprising: a designated program separating section for extracting video / audio data of a desired broadcast program from a multiplexed signal.   30. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 29, further comprising an output format conversion unit that converts the desired video / audio data received by the program receiving means into an output format required by the other device. Digital broadcast receiver.   24. The digital broadcast receiver according to claim 23, wherein an IC card is provided, and the IC card is connected to a digital broadcast receiver main body.   32. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the reception contract managing means is provided in an IC card connected to a main body of the digital broadcast receiving apparatus.   32. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 31, wherein a communication means for communicating with the main body is provided on the IC card.   32. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 31, further comprising pay broadcast accounting information management means.   32. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 31, further comprising an authentication processing means for authenticating that the digital broadcast receiving apparatus is manufactured with proper authorization.   32. The digital broadcast receiver according to claim 31, further comprising encryption / decryption conversion means for decrypting encrypted information sent from the main body and for encrypting information transmitted to the main body. Receiver device.   32. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 31, further comprising control means for controlling each means in the IC card.   24. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the reception contract information is acquired and stored in the reception contract management means.   24. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the contract information acquisition request is transmitted to the other device via the input / output means and the bus. 24. The digital broadcast receiving apparatus according to claim 23, wherein billing information acquired from the other device is displayed.

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