JP3913541B2 - Electronic data supply method, electronic data supply system, electronic data issuing device, relay device, program, and computer-readable recording medium recording the same - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention relates to a system for distributing electronic data via a communication network, and more specifically, an electronic data supply method, an electronic data supply system, an electronic data issuing device in a network in which a relay server is arranged between a distribution server and a terminal device, The present invention relates to a relay device, a program, and a computer-readable recording medium on which the program is recorded.
[0002]
[Prior art]
  In recent years, electronic commerce using networks such as the Internet has been actively performed. Among them, download sales such as software and digital music content are rapidly developing as electronic commerce for general consumers.
[0003]
  Here, in download sales of software, digital music content, and the like (hereinafter referred to as digital content), how to protect the copyright of the digital content is important.
[0004]
  In this regard, conventionally, there is a method of issuing a password or the like input when a user downloads digital content so that only authorized users can download the digital content. According to this method, it is possible to charge for password issuance and allow only the user who has paid the fee to download the digital content.
[0005]
  However, many digital contents are large in size, and there are many cases in which downloading fails due to a network failure during downloading. If the download fails, the download must be performed again, resulting in an inefficient situation such as repeated downloads. In addition, the accounting process is complicated in order to cope with a download failure.
[0006]
  Therefore, the digital content main body and the license key for validating the digital content are separated and charging is performed for a license key having a smaller size.
[0007]
  This reduces the probability of download failure and simplifies the billing process. In addition, since the use of digital content requires the purchase of a license key, the copyright of the digital content can be protected even if the digital content body is distributed on a medium such as a CD-ROM.
[0008]
  However, with this method, there is a risk of copyright infringement because the set of the digital content body and the license key is duplicated.
[0009]
  Therefore, a license key is issued using a public key infrastructure (PKI) so that it can be used only by a specific personal computer. Specifically, for example, the license site acquires an identifier based on unique information inside the user's personal computer, and issues a license key corresponding to the identifier. In the user's personal computer, the license key becomes valid by using the license key together with the unique information inside the personal computer.
[0010]
  As a result, digital contents can be reproduced only on a personal computer of a specific user. Also, attacks from third parties can be prevented, and digital contents and license keys can be safely delivered.
[0011]
  In addition, information on distribution channels is inserted into the digital content body as a digital watermark. For example, the published patent publication “Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-29889 (published date: October 24, 2000)“ Digital Work Management Method, Management System, Recording Device, and Playback Device ”” includes a usage route. An apparatus is disclosed that rewrites usage route information when a new license key is issued when digital content is duplicated by inserting information representing a digital watermark into the digital content.
[0012]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
  However, all of the above conventional techniques issue a license key through direct exchange between a user and a license issuer. In other words, it is not possible to exchange through an intermediary like an actual product exchange. Specifically, for example, when a license issuer wants to entrust user management, credit, advertisement, etc. to an external broker, the conventional technology cannot be directly used.
[0013]
  The reason is as follows. Here, there are a plurality of brokers competing with each other, and it is assumed that the user and the license issuer can freely select brokers.
[0014]
  First, the license issuer selects a number of brokers who will receive a license issuance request from the user, and enters into a contract for each broker. The user selects one from the brokers contracted by the license issuer and requests the license issue.
[0015]
  At this time, in a normal flow, if the user requests the broker to issue a license, the broker who has received the request requests the license issuer to issue an actual license, and the license issued by the license issuer is issued. Receive it and give the license to the user.
[0016]
  However, when processing is delayed in the broker and the license issuance does not progress smoothly, the user may cancel the request to the broker and request another broker. However, in this case, if the first broker does not immediately accept the cancellation and issues the license, the two brokers will issue the license key in duplicate. As a result, there are problems such as payments to brokers and dealing with duplicate license keys. If cancellation by the user is impossible, the user's merit is drastically reduced, which is not preferable.
[0017]
  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an electronic data supply method and electronic data that do not cause trouble even when a user requests a plurality of agents to order electronic data simultaneously. It is to provide a supply system, an electronic data issuing device, and a relay device. Further, the object of the present invention includes providing a program that realizes the electronic data issuing device and the relay device, and a computer-readable recording medium that records the program.
[0018]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to solve the above-described problems, the electronic data supply method of the present invention is configured such that a terminal device and an electronic data issuing device are connected via a communication network through a plurality of routes.Connected to communicateAt the same time, at least one relay device is provided on each route, and the electronic data issuing device issues electronic data requested by the terminal device according to the request information and transmits it to the terminal device.In the electronic data supply system, the relay device includes a request information relay reception unit and a request information relay transmission unit, and the electronic data issue device includes an electronic data issue unit and a request information reception unit. In data supply systemsAn electronic data supply method comprising:The request information relay accepting unit receives a terminal identifier for identifying the terminal device and the request information from the terminal device or another relay device, and indicates route information indicating a history of the request information being relayedTheThe receiving process received from another relay device and the request information relay sending unit perform the receiving process. In the route information received in the above, information specifying the position of the own device in the communication network is added, or if the route information is not received in the reception process, the route information is generated. The route information is added with information for specifying the position of the own device, and the route information is added to the request information received in the receiving process and the terminal identifier based on the destination list stored in the own device. To other relay device or electronic data issuing deviceRequest information transmission processing to be transmitted;When the request information receiving unit receives the request information transmitted in the request information transmission process together with the route information and the terminal identifier, the electronic data issuing unit receives the request information and route received by the request information receiving unit. After storing the information and terminal identifier, waiting for the same request identifier with the same terminal identifier for the predetermined grace period, specified by the route information of the route selected based on the judgment criteria included in the stored request information Corresponding to the request information and includes the route information and the terminal identifierAn electronic data issuing process for issuing the electronic data;The relay device transmits the electronic data issued in the electronic data issuance process to another relay device or the terminal device based on the route information and the terminal identifier included in the electronic data.It is characterized by including.
[0019]
  An electronic data supply system of the present invention is an electronic data supply system in which an electronic data issuing device issues electronic data requested by request information by a terminal device via a communication network and transmits the electronic data to the terminal device. The terminal device and the electronic data issuing device through a plurality of routesConnected to communicateIn addition, at least one relay device is disposed in each route, and the relay device isRequest information for receiving a terminal identifier for specifying the terminal device and the request information from the terminal device or another relay device, and receiving from the other relay device route information indicating a history of the request information being relayed. Information specifying the position of the own device in the communication network is added to the route information received by the relay reception unit and the request information relay reception unit, or the request information relay reception unit has not received the route information. In this case, the route information is generated, information specifying the position of the own device is added to the route information, and the route information is added to the request information received by the request information relay reception unit and the terminal identifier. Based on the destination list stored in its own device, to another relay device or the electronic data issuing deviceRelay request information to be sentSending part andThe electronic data issuing device comprises:A request information receiving unit that receives the request information transmitted from the request information relay sending unit together with the route information and the terminal identifier; and stores the request information, the route information, and the terminal identifier received by the request information receiving unit; After waiting for the same request information with the same terminal identifier and the same terminal identifier, the request information is sent to the relay device specified by the route information of the route selected based on the criterion included in the stored request information. Including the route information and the terminal identifierElectronic data issuance to issue the above electronic dataDepartment andWithThe relay device transmits the electronic data issued by the electronic data issuing unit to another relay device or the terminal device based on the route information and the terminal identifier included in the electronic data.It is characterized by that.
[0020]
  With the above method and configuration, when the electronic data issuing device receives the same request information from a plurality of routes, the electronic data issuing device selects one route from the plurality of routes, and the electronic data is sent to the request information received from the route. Issue.
[0021]
  Further, the electronic data issuing device receives the request information together with the route information that specifies the route through which the request information has passed. Therefore, it is preferable that the relay device adds information specifying the position of the device itself in the communication network to the route information and transmits the information together with the request information.
[0022]
  Therefore, the electronic data issuing device can specify the transmission path of the request information that issued / issued the electronic data based on the path information. Note that the electronic data issuing device can also transmit the issued electronic data to the terminal device via the relay device, following the route information in reverse.
[0023]
  Therefore, it is possible to realize an electronic data supply system that does not cause a trouble even if a user requests a plurality of agents to order electronic data at the same time.
[0024]
  Here, in the electronic data issuing service (sales, rental, etc.), the relay device corresponds to an information processing device of an agent that performs user management, credit, advertisement, etc. on behalf of the issuer. In this case, information for identifying the agency, for example, the ID of the agency can be used as the route information.
[0025]
  Since the issuer (electronic data issuing device) can specify the transmission route of the request information based on the route information, the issuer (electronic data issuing device) can exclusively process the request for issuing electronic data from a plurality of agents. Therefore, even if the user requests a plurality of relay devices (agents) to issue electronic data at the same time, troubles such as duplicate issue of electronic data and payment to the agent do not occur. Moreover, even if the agency business of one agency is delayed, the user can acquire electronic data from other agency.
[0026]
  In addition, the above-described method and system is essentially a mechanism that promotes competition between agents and creates user merits. In addition, since the user management work related to the issuance of electronic data can be separated, there is an advantage that the user management work can be outsourced to the issuer of electronic data. Further, since it is possible to charge without directly accessing the issuer's server, it is particularly effective in a peer-to-peer network environment.
[0027]
  Furthermore, the above method and system are suitable for issuing a license key that makes digital content available at a terminal device. In this case, even if the digital content license key is issued on behalf of the agency via the network, troubles such as duplicate issuance do not occur. Accordingly, it is possible to flexibly issue a license using an agent while protecting the copyright of the digital content.
[0028]
  Furthermore, the electronic data supply system according to the present invention provides the electronic data issuance described above.PartIs to wait for the same request information for a predetermined grace period when the request information is received.The
[0029]
  With the above configuration, the electronic data issuing device does not issue electronic data during the grace period after receiving the first request information. After the grace period, when the same request information is received from a plurality of routes during the grace period, one route is selected from the plurality of routes, and the electronic data is received for the request information received from the route. Issue.
[0030]
  As a result, even when the user transmits the same request information multiple times over time, or when the communication time from the terminal device to the electronic data issuing device is different for each path, the user transmitted at the same time It is possible to process the same request information as one request information.
[0031]
  Here, the length of the grace period can be appropriately set according to a period during which the electronic data issuing device is highly likely to receive the same request information. The length of the grace period may be set in advance in the electronic data issuing device, or may be given from the outside together with, for example, request information.
[0032]
  During the grace period, the electronic data issuing device may store information such as the received request information and route information in a non-volatile storage device, or in a volatile storage device for a short period. You may keep it.
[0033]
  further,The predetermined grace period is specified by the grace period information included in the request information. Preferably.
[0034]
  According to the above configuration, the grace period can be specified by the grace period information transmitted together with the request information to the electronic data issuing device. Therefore, a grace period for collectively processing the same request information in the electronic data issuing device can be specified when the user transmits the request information from the terminal device. The grace period information can be added when the relay device relays the request information.
[0035]
  further,The criterion is priority, and the electronic data issuing unitSelect the route with the highest priority.Is preferred.
[0036]
  With the configuration described above, it is possible to specify the priority order of the route by the priority to be transmitted together with the request information to the electronic data issuing device. Therefore, when the user transmits request information from the terminal device, the electronic data issuing device can specify the priority for collecting the same request information and selecting one from the route. The priority can also be set when the relay device relays request information.
[0037]
  further,The above criteria are price information,The electronic data issuing department, The above price information should select the cheapest routeIs preferred.
[0038]
  With the above configuration, the electronic data issuing device further selects the route with the lowest charge information when the same request information is received from a plurality of routes. Therefore, it is possible to select the route that is most advantageous to the user regarding the fee. The fee information may be set when the user transmits request information from the terminal device, or may be set by the relay device when relaying the request information.
[0039]
  Furthermore, the electronic data supply system of the present invention is characterized in that the electronic data is a license key that enables the digital content to be used in the terminal device.
[0040]
  As described above, in the electronic data supply system, even if the user requests a plurality of relay devices (agents) to issue electronic data at the same time, troubles may occur in duplicate issue of electronic data or payment to the agent. do not do. Moreover, even if the agency business of one agency is delayed, the user can acquire electronic data from other agency.
[0041]
  Therefore, the electronic data supply system is suitable for issuing a license key that makes it possible to use digital content in a terminal device.
[0042]
  Furthermore, the electronic data supply system according to the present invention provides the electronic data issuance described above.PartReceives the terminal identifier for identifying the terminal device together with the request information, and generates the license key by embedding the terminal identifier and the route information.The
[0043]
  With the above configuration, the terminal identifier and the route information can be embedded in the license key.
[0044]
  Therefore, since the route information is included in the issued license key, troubles such as duplicate license issuance do not occur even if the user requests a plurality of agents to issue a license. In addition, the use of digital content can be restricted to a specific terminal device.
[0045]
  Accordingly, it is possible to flexibly issue a license using an agent while protecting the copyright of the digital content.
[0046]
  An electronic data issuing device according to the present invention is an electronic data issuing device included in the electronic data supply system.The request information receiving unit andThe above electronic data issuancePartIt is characterized by comprising.
[0047]
  With the above configuration, when the electronic data issuing device receives the same request information from a plurality of routes, the electronic data issuing device selects one route from the plurality of routes and issues electronic data to the request information received from the route. To do.
[0048]
  Here, the terminal device and the electronic data issuing device are connected by a plurality of routes, and at least one relay device is disposed in each route. Further, the relay device adds information specifying the position of the own device in the communication network to the route information and transmits the information together with the request information.
[0049]
  Therefore, since the electronic data issuing device receives the request information together with the route information that specifies the route through which the request information has passed, the electronic data issuing device can specify the transmission route of the request information that issued / issued the electronic data based on this.
[0050]
  Therefore, it is possible to realize an electronic data supply system that does not cause a trouble even if a user requests a plurality of agents to order electronic data at the same time.
[0051]
  The relay device of the present invention is a relay device included in the electronic data supply system described above,The request information relay reception unit andRequest information relaySending partIt is characterized by comprising.
[0052]
  With the above configuration, the relay apparatus adds information specifying the position of the own apparatus in the communication network to the route information indicating the history of the request information being relayed, and transmits the information together with the request information.
[0053]
  Therefore, the relay device can provide the electronic data issuing device with route information that specifies the route through which the request information passes along with the request information. As a result, when the electronic data issuing device receives the same request information from a plurality of routes, the electronic data issuing device selects one route from the plurality of routes and issues electronic data to the request information received from the route. Can do. That is, the electronic data issuing device can specify the transmission path of request information for issuing / receiving electronic data based on the path information.
[0054]
  Therefore, it is possible to realize an electronic data supply system that does not cause a trouble even if a user requests a plurality of agents to order electronic data at the same time.
[0055]
  The electronic data issuing program of the present invention is a computer.The request information receiving unit andThe above electronic data issuancePartIt is a computer program that functions as
[0056]
  With the above configuration, the electronic data issuing device can beThe request information receiving unit andThe above electronic data issuancePartBy realizing the above, the electronic data issuing device can be realized. Therefore, it is possible to realize an electronic data supply system which is an effect of the electronic data issuing device described above and does not cause trouble even when a user requests a plurality of agents to order electronic data at the same time.
[0057]
  Further, a computer-readable recording medium on which the electronic data issuing program of the present invention is recorded,The request information receiving unit andThe above electronic data issuancePartIs a computer-readable recording medium on which an electronic data issuing program for operating the electronic data issuing device is recorded.
[0058]
  With the above configuration, the electronic data issuing device can be realized on a computer by the electronic data issuing program read from the recording medium.
[0059]
  The relay program of the present invention is a computer.The request information relay reception unit andRequest information relaySending partIt is a computer program that functions as
[0060]
  With the above configuration, the relay device can beThe request information relay reception unit andRequest information relaySending partBy realizing the above, the above relay device can be realized. Therefore, it is possible to realize an electronic data supply system that does not cause a trouble even if a user simultaneously requests a plurality of agents to order electronic data, which is an effect of the above-described relay device.
[0061]
  A computer-readable recording medium on which the relay program of the present invention is recorded,The request information relay reception unit andRequest information relaySending partIs a computer-readable recording medium on which a relay program for operating the relay device is recorded.
[0062]
  With the above configuration, the relay device can be realized on the computer by the relay program read from the recording medium.
[0063]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  One embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0064]
  In the present embodiment, a license issuing system for issuing a license key for validating a digital content main body in the sale of digital content such as software and digital music content will be described. The distribution method of the digital content main body is arbitrary. For example, it may be distributed by downloading via a network such as the Internet, or may be distributed on a medium such as a CD-ROM.
[0065]
  Further, in the present embodiment, no mention is made of a license fee settlement method associated with acquisition of a license key. The license key delivery relationship has been clarified, and payment may be made using a known technique such as credit payment or contract-based payment between the devices.
[0066]
  An outline of a license issuing system (electronic data supply system) 4 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0067]
  As shown in FIG. 1, the license issuing system 4 includes a license issuing device (electronic data issuing device) 1, a license relay device (relay device) 2, and a terminal device 3. The license issuing device 1 includes an order information receiving unit 10, a license key issuing unit (electronic data issuing means) 11, and a license DB (database) 12. The license relay device 2 includes an order information relay receiving unit 20, an order information relay sending unit (request information relay means) 21, a license key relay receiving unit 22, and a license key relay sending unit 23. The terminal device 3 includes an order information sending unit 30, a license key receiving unit 31, an input unit 32, and a display unit 33.
[0068]
  Here, in the license issuing system 4, a plurality of license relay devices 2 may be connected in series between the license issuing device 1 and the terminal device 3.
[0069]
  For example, in the network configuration example shown in FIG. 2, the route for connecting the license issuing device 1 and the terminal device 3 is routed through the route R1 through the license relay device 2a and the license relay devices 2b and 2c connected in series. There are two paths in parallel with the path R2 to be performed. Here, the license relay apparatuses 2a, 2b, and 2c have the same functions as the license relay apparatus 2 (FIG. 1). The route R1 corresponds to the connection form of FIG.
[0070]
  Next, each part of the license issuing device 1 will be described as follows.
[0071]
  The ordering information receiving unit 10 receives the license ordering information (request information) M1, the ordering route information (route information) M2 received from the ordering information relay sending unit 21 of the license relay device 2, and the terminal identifier of the terminal device 3 to be licensed. M3 is received and sent to the license key issuing unit 11. A combination of the license order information M1, order path information M2, and terminal identifier M3 may be referred to as “order information”.
[0072]
  The license key issuing unit 11 receives the license ordering information M1, the ordering route information M2, and the terminal identifier M3 received from the ordering information receiving unit 10, performs appropriate processing, issues a license key (electronic data) M4, and relays the license This is sent to the license key relay accepting unit 22 of the device 2.
[0073]
  The license DB 12 stores the license key M4 issued by the license key issuing unit 11 in association with the related ordering path information M2 and the terminal identifier M3.
[0074]
  Next, each part of the license relay device 2 will be described as follows.
[0075]
  The order information relay accepting unit 20 sends the license order information M1 and the terminal identifier M3 received from the order information sending unit 30 of the terminal device 3 to the order information relay sending unit 21. Further, the order information relay receiving unit 20 receives the license order information M1, the order route information M2, and the terminal identifier M3 received from the order information relay transmitting unit 21 of the other license relay device 2 (see FIG. 2). Send to 21.
[0076]
  The order information relay transmission unit 21 sets information specifying the own device (license relay device 2) in the order route information M2. Specifically, when the ordering information relay sending unit 21 does not receive the ordering route information M2 from the ordering information relay accepting unit 20, the ordering information relay sending unit 21 newly generates the ordering route information M2 including information for identifying the own device. On the other hand, when the ordering information relay sending unit 21 receives the ordering route information M2 from the ordering information relay accepting unit 20, information specifying the own device is added to the ordering route information M2.
[0077]
  Then, the order information relay sending unit 21 sends the license order information M1 and terminal identifier M3 received from the order information relay accepting unit 20 and the set order route information M2 to the order information accepting unit 10 of the license issuing device 1 or others. Are sent to the order information relay receiving unit 20 of the license relay apparatus 2.
[0078]
  The license key relay accepting unit 22 sends the license key M4 received from the license key issuing unit 11 of the license issuing device 1 or the license key relay sending unit 23 of another license relay device 2 to the license key relay sending unit 23.
[0079]
  The license key relay transmission unit 23 sends the license key M4 received from the license key relay reception unit 22 to the license key reception unit 31 of the terminal device 3 or the license key relay reception unit 22 of another license relay device 2.
[0080]
  The parts for relaying the license order information M1 (the order information relay receiving unit 20 and the order information relay sending part 21) and the parts for relaying the license key M4 (the license key relay receiving part 22 and the license key relay sending part 23) May not be in the same device. That is, the order information relay accepting unit 20 and the order information relay sending unit 21, the license key relay accepting unit 22 and the license key relay sending unit 23 may be provided in one device or separated into separate devices. May be provided.
[0081]
  Next, each part of the terminal device 3 will be described as follows.
[0082]
  The ordering information sending unit 30 sends the license ordering information M1 and the terminal identifier M3 to the ordering information relay receiving unit 20 of the license relay device 2 in accordance with an instruction from the input unit 32.
[0083]
  The license key reception unit 31 receives the license key M4 from the license key relay transmission unit 23 of the license relay device 2.
[0084]
  The input unit 32 and the display unit 33 are user interfaces of the terminal device 3. That is, the input unit 32 is a keyboard, a mouse, or the like for a user to give an instruction. The display unit 33 is a display device for giving information to the user, such as a liquid crystal display device.
[0085]
  Here, the license issuing device 1 and the license relay device 2 can be configured based on a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or a personal computer. The terminal device 3 can be configured based on a general-purpose computer such as a personal computer or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant).
[0086]
  That is, the license issuing device 1, the license relay device 2, and the terminal device 3 include a CPU (central processing unit) that executes instructions of programs that realize the respective functions, a ROM (read only memory) that stores boot logic, RAM (random access memory) for developing the program, storage devices (recording media) such as a hard disk for storing the program and various databases (including the license DB 12), input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse, a monitor, a speaker, a printer, etc. Output devices and network connection devices connected to an external network are connected by an internal bus.
[0087]
  The functions of the license issuing device 1, the license relay device 2, and the terminal device 3 are realized by developing a program stored in the storage device in the RAM as necessary and executing it by the CPU.
[0088]
  Specifically, the license issuing device 1 can be typically constructed as an application server such as a Java servlet engine. In this case, the license issuing device 1 processes the HTTP request, exchanges with the license DB 12, creates an appropriate license key M4, and transmits the license key M4 in the form of an HTTP response. Of course, the present invention is not limited to this mode, and any configuration can be selected as long as it can exchange data via a network, for example, using transmission / reception of electronic mail.
[0089]
  The license relay device 2 can be typically implemented by an application server such as a Java servlet engine. In this case, the license order information M1 and the license key M4 embedded in the HTTP request are appropriately processed, and the result is transmitted in the HTTP response format, or the HTTP request is generated in a chain manner to other devices. Send and receive data. Of course, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and any configuration can be arbitrarily selected as long as data can be transmitted and received via a network, such as a WWW (World Wide Web) proxy server or an e-mail server.
[0090]
  Next, processing in the license issuing device 1, the license relay device 2, and the terminal device 3 from when the user orders a license and obtains a license key will be described in detail.
[0091]
  In this embodiment, each piece of information is transmitted and received by e-mail. However, the PKI technology such as PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) or Verisign (registered trademark) digital ID is used to secure the information without eavesdropping or tampering. It shall be able to send and receive. For example, the license order information M1 and the terminal identifier M3 are digitally signed by the digital ID of the terminal device 3.
[0092]
  First, the ordering process in the terminal device 3 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
[0093]
  First, the terminal device 3 displays orderable license order information M1 on the display unit 33 (S11). This display is performed, for example, by accessing the license issuing site using a WWW browser or accessing the license issuing agency service site.
[0094]
  Next, the user selects an agent that is the ordering party (S12). The list of agent companies can also be obtained using Internet technology such as a WWW browser, and the user can freely select from a plurality of agent agents listed.
[0095]
  Then, when the user gives an order using the input unit 32 (S13), the order information sending unit 30 generates the license order information M1 and the terminal identifier M3 (FIG. 4), and the license of the selected agent is selected. The data is sent to the relay device 2 (S14).
[0096]
  Here, the license order information M1 and the terminal identifier M3 transmitted by the terminal device 3 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.
[0097]
  The license order information M1 includes at least a license name and an orderer ID. The license ordering information M1 may further include an agent ID, a grace period, a priority, and a license fee.
[0098]
  The “license name” is a unique identifier of the target license and is the same for any agency. As a method for making it unique, for example, it can be realized by using a domain used to uniquely represent a network name and representing it as “jp.co.sharp ...”. In the drawing, it is simplified.
[0099]
  “Agent agency ID” is an identifier that indicates to which agency the license order has been placed, and is different for each agency that orders the license. This identifier can be globally unique as well, but is simplified in the drawing.
[0100]
  The “grace period” is a period during which processing is delayed in the license issuing device 1 when placing an order with a plurality of agent companies. Thereby, the license issuing device 1 can receive a plurality of orders for the same license within this grace period.
[0101]
  Specifically, the user may send the license order information M1 and the terminal identifier M3 to a plurality of agent companies at the same time and place an order in order to reduce the risk due to business delays by the agent agents. In this case, the license issuing device 1 receives a plurality of orders within the grace period, but the license order information M1 and the terminal identifier M3 are the same, so one of the received orders is selected and a license key is issued. can do. And since the agency ID which substitutes the order which issued the license key is decided to one, it can prevent paying a price redundantly to a plurality of dealers. Further, since the license issuing device 1 issues a license key in response to an order received within the grace period, an agent having a slow proxy process is excluded, and as a result, the competition between the agents is promoted. There is also.
[0102]
  Note that the grace period may be set in advance in the license issuing device 1. In this case, the grace period data can be omitted from the license order information M1.
[0103]
  The “priority” is used for processing in the license issuing device 1 to select the one with the highest priority when a plurality of orders are received within the grace period. The priority may be set freely by the user, or may be set according to a contract between the agent and the license issuer. In addition, when there is no priority setting or when the same priority is set in plural, the agency may be selected on a first-come-first-served basis or at random, or may be selected according to other criteria.
[0104]
  The “license fee” is an issuance fee when the agency performs the issuance of a license, and the user may determine the priority based on the issuance fee. Of course, if the license fee is unified among the agent companies, the license fee data can be omitted from the license ordering information M1.
[0105]
  The “orderer ID” is an identifier for specifying an orderer who is a user of the terminal device 3. As the orderer ID, an e-mail address is used in the present embodiment, but any information can be used as long as the information can identify the terminal device 3.
[0106]
  The terminal identifier M3 is information that identifies the terminal device 3 that is the subject of the license. Since the license key is created based on the terminal identifier M3, the license key is valid only for the terminal device 3 having the designated terminal identifier M3. Such a mechanism that is effective only in a specific terminal is a basic idea of the PKI technology and is a known technology, and therefore detailed description thereof is omitted here.
[0107]
  Second, the order information relay process in the license relay device 2 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Steps S21 to S24 correspond to request information transmission processing.
[0108]
  First, the order information relay acceptance unit 20 of the license relay device 2 receives the license order information M1 and the terminal identifier M3 (FIGS. 4 and 5) sent from the terminal device 3 (S21).
[0109]
  Next, the order information relay transmission unit 21 sets information specifying the own device (license relay device 2) in the order route information M2 as information representing the route (S22). Then, the order information relay transmission unit 21 selects a transmission destination (S23), and sends the license order information M1, the order path information M2, and the terminal identifier M3 to the transmission destination (S24). It is assumed that the destination is set in advance as a destination list in a storage device (not shown) of the license relay device 2 in accordance with a contract with the license issuer.
[0110]
  Here, the license order information M1, order path information M2, and terminal identifier M3 transmitted from the license relay apparatus 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9 show information transmitted by the license relay apparatuses 2a, 2c, and 2b in FIG. The license order information M1 and the terminal identifier M3 are as described above with reference to FIGS.
[0111]
  The order path information M2 is data in which information for specifying the license relay apparatus 2 on the path from the terminal apparatus 3 to the license issuing apparatus 1 is added in order. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, from the license relay device 2b on the route R2, data in which the route information 2 specifying the license relay device 2b is added after the route information 1 specifying the license relay device 2c is ordered. It is sent out as route information M2. In the figure, “route information” is represented as a character string starting with “urn: route:”, but this is for representing general information indicating a position. Specifically, as the “route information”, an e-mail address or an Internet address of the license relay device 2 or other information that can specify the position of the license relay device 2 can be used.
[0112]
  In the present embodiment, as described above, the order routing information M2 is set in the license relay device 2 every time the license ordering information M1 is relayed. However, the order path information M2 may be set for all license relay apparatuses 2 on the path to the license issuing apparatus 1 when the license order information M1 is transmitted from the terminal apparatus 3.
[0113]
  10 to 12 show the destination lists set in the license relay apparatuses 2a, 2b, and 2c in FIG.
[0114]
  As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the license relay apparatuses 2a and 2b send out an order for the license name “Urn: product: //softhouse/product/tool.lic” to the license issuer “Urn”. : route: // softhouse ”is set. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12, the license relay device 2c sends out the above order, and the license relay device 2b “Urn: route: // agent2b” of another broker is set. Yes.
[0115]
  Third, the license issuing process in the license issuing device 1 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Steps S35 and S37 correspond to electronic data issuing processing.
[0116]
  First, the order information receiving unit 10 of the license issuing device 1 receives the license order information M1, the order route information M2, and the terminal identifier M3 sent from the license key relay device 2 (S31).
[0117]
  Next, the license key issuing unit 11 refers to the license key stored in the license DB 12 based on the license ordering information M1 and the terminal identifier M3, and determines whether or not the designated license key M4 has not been issued. (S32). If not issued, the license order information M1, order path information M2, and terminal identifier M3 are temporarily stored in a storage device (not shown) (S33), and only the grace period specified in the license order information M1. Then, another order for the same license key is awaited (S34).
[0118]
  Here, suppose that the license issuing device 1 receives the first order (order information shown in FIG. 7 and the like) and then receives the second order (shown in FIG. 9) within a grace period (for example, one day later). Order information).
[0119]
  In this case, after the grace period has elapsed, the license key issuing unit 11 selects either the first order or the second order and creates the license key M4 (S35). At this time, the license key issuing unit 11 can select an order based on the priority included in the license order information M1, for example. Specifically, the priority of the license order information M1 is “1” in FIG. 7 (license relay device 2a) and “2” in FIG. 9 (license relay device 2b). Selects the order of FIG. 9 having a high priority. If the priority is specified by the user, the license key issuing unit 11 can select a route desired by the user.
[0120]
  Next, the license key issuing unit 11 stores the order path information M2 and the terminal identifier M3 in the license DB 12 in association with the created license key M4 (S36).
[0121]
  Next, the license key issuing unit 11 sends the created license key M4 to all license relay apparatuses 2 that have been ordered (S37). That is, in the above example, the license key issuing unit 11 transmits not only to the license relay apparatus 2b but also to the license relay apparatus 2a. Thereby, in the license relay apparatus 2a, for example, it is possible to mark the job list as “processed” and end the order information relay process. Generally, when a request is sent to the server, a response is returned. Therefore, by transmitting the license key M4 as a response to the license relay device 2a, the load on the license relay device 2a can be reduced. Conversely, the license key M4 may not be sent to the license relay device 2a. In this case, the load on the network can be suppressed. The sending destination can be determined by referring to the route information included in each ordering route information M2.
[0122]
  Here, FIG. 14 shows an example of the data structure of the license key M4. The license key M4 includes the license name of the license order information M1, order path information M2, and a terminal identifier M3. Thus, since the license key M4 includes route information related to ordering, the license issuer can appropriately perform billing processing only for the billing target vendor.
[0123]
  In step S32, if an equivalent license key M4 has already been issued, the license key M4 stored in the license DB 12 may be taken out and sent to the license relay apparatus 2 that has ordered it.
[0124]
  In addition, since the license DB 12 is provided, it can be determined that the license has already been issued even if another order for the same license is generated, so that it is possible to avoid the redundant issue of the license key M4.
[0125]
  However, in general, the same user does not order the same license key M4 a plurality of times, but even if it orders a plurality of agents at the same time. Therefore, it is sufficient to store the license key M4 for a short period (for example, several days). Therefore, in the license issuing device 1, it is not essential to store the license DB 12 in a storage device such as a hard disk that can be stored for a long time, and the license key M4 and the like may be temporarily stored in a memory or the like. Even if the license key M4 is not stored for a long period of time, if the expiration date of the order is included in the license order information M1, even if another order is delayed and arrives at the license issuing device 1 after the grace period, If it is within the expiration date, it is possible to avoid issuing the license key M4 in duplicate.
[0126]
  In step S34, only the grace period is waited, but this process is not essential. That is, license keys may be issued in the order of first-come-first-served order, or may be waited for an arbitrary period depending on the convenience of the license issuing device 1. In this case, the grace period information can be omitted from the license order information M1.
[0127]
  In step S35, one of a plurality of orders is selected based on the priority, but this process is not essential. That is, the order may be selected based on a criterion other than the priority. For example, the one with the lowest license fee may be selected. In this case, the user can obtain the license key at the lowest price. Specifically, the license fee of the license ordering information M1 is “150 yen” in FIG. 7 (license relay apparatus 2a) and “100 yen” in FIG. 9 (license relay apparatus 2b). The section 11 selects the order shown in FIG.
[0128]
  Subsequently, after the license issuing device 1 sends the license key M4 from the license key issuing unit 11, the license key relay device 2 receives and sends the license key M4 by the license key relay receiving unit 22 and the license key relay sending unit 23. The order path information M2 is traced in reverse, and finally the license key receiving unit 31 of the terminal device 3 receives the license key M4.
[0129]
  At this time, it is not always necessary to refer to the route information at the time of ordering. That is, if each license relay device 2 stores a combination of the license name of the license ordering information M1 and the terminal identifier M3, the destination can be determined by referring to the license name and terminal identifier included in the license key M4. I can judge.
[0130]
  Further, since the license key M4 includes route information at the time of ordering, even if the terminal device 3 receives the same license key M4 from the license relay device 2 of a plurality of routes, it charges a fee to any agency. It is possible to determine whether or not to pay, and it is possible to prevent troubles such as overlapping payments to multiple suppliers.
[0131]
  Further, in addition to the license issuing system 4, a server for transmitting the digital content body, which is electronic data, to the terminal device 3 in response to a user request may be provided. In this case, an electronic data sales system can be configured by the server and the license issuing system 4.
[0132]
  In the electronic data sales system, the user can download the digital content body that the user desires to use from the server, and obtain a license key that enables the digital content body in the terminal device 3 from the license issuing system 4. it can.
[0133]
  For example, when downloading the digital content body, a program for realizing the license relay device 2 may be bundled with the digital content body and transmitted.
[0134]
  Here, consider a case in which there is a personal computer that can be directly connected to the Internet and a PDA that is connected to the personal computer by infrared communication, and digital contents that can be browsed by both are downloaded.
[0135]
  At this time, if the program for realizing the license relay device 2 is bundled with the digital content body, the personal computer can be regarded as the license relay device 2 and the PDA can be regarded as the terminal device 3. If the PDA is connected to the personal computer, the PDA can acquire the digital content body and the license key via the personal computer by infrared communication without directly connecting to the network.
[0136]
  Further, each time the program for realizing the license relay device 2 bundled with the digital content main body is relayed to another personal computer, the terminal device 3 is rewritten by rewriting the program itself (or route information). When a license key issuance is requested from the server, it is not necessary to determine which license relay device 2 should be connected.
[0137]
  The license issuing system 4 can be applied not only to the digital content license key but also to the distribution of general electronic data.
[0138]
  The license issuing device according to the present invention, in license sales using a network, order information receiving means for receiving license order information, route information related to ordering, and a terminal identifier of a license target terminal; the route information and the terminal identifier; Issuing means for issuing a license key in which is embedded.
[0139]
  The license issuing device may further include a license DB that stores a set of the route information, the terminal identifier, and a license key.
[0140]
  Here, the route information is information for identifying the agent who is the relay point in the relationship between the license issuer and the user who is the issuer, for example, the ID of the agent. By embedding this route information in the license key, a specific license for a specific terminal can be exclusively processed even if a plurality of agent companies try to issue the agent.
[0141]
  In the license issuing device, the license ordering information may include a license fee related to license issuance, and the issuing unit may issue a license based on the license fee.
[0142]
  In the license issuing device, the license ordering information may include a priority related to license issuance, and the issuing unit may issue a license based on the priority.
[0143]
  In the license issuing device, the license ordering information may include grace period information until license issuance, and the issuing unit may suspend license issuing during the grace period.
[0144]
  The license relay device according to the present invention includes: an order information relay receiving unit that receives the license order information and a terminal identifier of the license target terminal; and an order information relay transmission unit that transmits the license order information and the terminal identifier. It may be provided.
[0145]
  In the license relay apparatus, the order information relay accepting unit may receive the route information, and the order information relay sending unit may also send the route information.
[0146]
  The license relay device may be one in which the order information relay sending means sends route information about itself.
[0147]
  The license relay apparatus may include a license key relay reception unit that receives the license key and a license key relay transmission unit that transmits the license key.
[0148]
  The terminal device according to the present invention may comprise order information sending means for sending out the license order information and its own terminal identifier.
[0149]
  The terminal device may include a license key receiving unit that receives the license key.
[0150]
  The license issuance method according to the present invention is a method executed by the above-described license issuance apparatus.
[0151]
  The license relay method according to the present invention is a method executed by the license relay device.
[0152]
  The license ordering method according to the present invention is a method executed by the above terminal device.
[0153]
  With the above configuration, the ordering information and the terminal identifier are transmitted by the terminal device and accepted by the license relay device. In the license relay device, route information is added to the order information and the terminal identifier, and then the license information is sent to the license issuing device or another license relay device, and finally received by the license issuing device. Next, in the license issuing device, a license key for the terminal identifier is created while referring to the ordering information, and the route information is embedded. Next, the license is issued from the license issuing device to the reverse route and is accepted by the license relay device.
[0154]
  If the license key has been issued or the order information has a low priority, the previously created license key is sent to the same route and accepted by the license relay device. Next, the license key is sent out by the license relay device and finally accepted by the terminal device.
[0155]
  Therefore, since the route information is included in the issued license key, troubles such as issuance of duplicate licenses do not occur even when a plurality of agent companies are requested to issue licenses.
[0156]
  In addition, since trouble does not occur even if requests are made to a plurality of agent agents at the same time, a license can be obtained from the other agent agent even if one agent agent is negligent in the agent operation.
[0157]
  The license issuance method according to the present invention is a mechanism that essentially promotes competition between agent companies and generates user merits, and is a mechanism that can separate user management work related to license issuance. There is an advantage that management work can be outsourced.
[0158]
  Finally, an object of the present invention is to provide program codes (execution format program, intermediate code program, source program) of an electronic data supply program (including an electronic data issuance program and a relay program) that is software that realizes the functions described above. This can also be achieved by supplying a recording medium recorded in a computer-readable manner to a system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus reading and executing the program code recorded on the recording medium. It is. In this case, the program code itself read from the recording medium realizes the above-described function, and the recording medium recording the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0159]
  For example, the license key issuing unit 11 included in the license issuing device 1 is realized by a microprocessor or the like executing an electronic data issuing program stored in a memory (not shown) of the license issuing device 1. Similarly, the order information relay sending unit 21 included in the license relay device 2 is realized by a microprocessor or the like executing a relay program stored in a memory (not shown) of the license relay device 2.
[0160]
  The recording medium for supplying the program code can be configured to be separable from the system or apparatus. The recording medium may be a medium that is fixedly supported so that the program code can be supplied. Even if the recording medium is attached to the system or apparatus so that the recorded program code can be directly read by the computer, the recording medium can be connected via the program reading apparatus connected to the system or apparatus as an external storage device. It may be mounted so that it can be read.
[0161]
  For example, the recording media include tape systems such as magnetic tapes and cassette tapes, disk systems including magnetic disks such as floppy disks / hard disks and optical disks such as CD-ROM / MO / MD / DVD / CD-R, and IC cards. A card system such as an optical card (including a memory card) or a semiconductor memory system such as a mask ROM / EPROM / EEPROM / flash ROM can be used.
[0162]
  The program code may be recorded so that the computer can read out from the recording medium and directly execute it, or after being transferred from the recording medium to the program storage area of the main memory, the computer can read out from the main memory and execute it. It may be recorded as follows.
[0163]
  Further, the system or apparatus may be configured to be connectable to a communication network (including the Internet, intranet, etc.), and the program code may be supplied via the communication network.
[0164]
  The program for reading the program code from the recording medium and storing it in the main memory, and the program for downloading the program code from the communication network are stored in advance in a system or apparatus so as to be executable by a computer. To do.
[0165]
  The functions described above are not only realized by executing the program code read out by the computer, but based on an instruction of the program code, an OS or the like operating on the computer partially or entirely in actual processing. It is also realized by performing.
[0166]
  Furthermore, the function described above is obtained by writing the program code read from the recording medium into a memory provided in a function expansion board attached to the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, and then the program code. Based on the instruction, the CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit also implements part or all of the actual processing.
[0167]
【The invention's effect】
  As described above, the electronic data supply method of the present invention isThe request information relay accepting unit receives a terminal identifier for identifying the terminal device and the request information from the terminal device or another relay device, and indicates route information indicating the history of the request information being relayed.TheThe receiving process received from another relay apparatus and the request information relay sending unit add information specifying the position of the own apparatus in the communication network to the route information received in the receiving process, or in the receiving process When the route information is not received, the route information is generated, information specifying the position of the own device is added to the route information, and the route information is received in the reception process. A request information transmission process for transmitting to the other relay apparatus or the electronic data issuing apparatus based on a transmission destination list stored in the own apparatus together with the information and the terminal identifier, and a request information receiving unit in the request information transmission process. When the transmitted request information is received together with the route information and the terminal identifier, the electronic data issuing unit sends the request information. The request information received by the reception unit, the path information, and the terminal identifier are stored, and after waiting for the same request information with the same terminal identifier and the same terminal identifier, based on the determination criteria included in the stored request information An electronic data issuing process for issuing the electronic data corresponding to the request information and including the route information and the terminal identifier to the relay device identified by the route information of the selected route, and the relay device Based on the route information and terminal identifier contained in the data, the electronic data issued in the electronic data issuing process is transferred to another relay device. Or processing to transmit to the terminal deviceA method including:
[0168]
  The electronic data supply system of the present invention isThe terminal device and the electronic data issuing device are communicably connected via a plurality of routes, and at least one relay device is disposed on each route, and the relay device identifies the terminal device. A request information relay accepting unit that receives a terminal identifier and request information to be received from the terminal device or another relay device, and receives route information indicating a history of the request information being relayed from another relay device, and a request In the route information received by the information relay accepting unit, information specifying the position of the own device in the communication network is added, or when the request information relay accepting unit does not receive the route information, the route information Request information received by the request information relay accepting unit, and the route information is added with information specifying the position of the own device. And a request information relay transmission unit that transmits to the other relay device or the electronic data issuing device based on the destination list stored in the own device together with the terminal identifier, and the electronic data issuing device includes the request information A request information receiving unit that receives the request information transmitted from the relay sending unit together with the route information and the terminal identifier, and stores the request information, the route information, and the terminal identifier received by the request information receiving unit, and a predetermined grace period After waiting for the same request information with the same terminal identifier, the relay device identified by the route information of the route selected based on the criterion included in the stored request information corresponds to the request information. An electronic data issuing unit that issues the electronic data including the route information and the terminal identifier, and the relay device includes the electronic data Based on the route information and the terminal identifier included, it transmits the electronic data to the electronic data issuing unit issues to other relay device or the terminal deviceIt is a configuration.
[0169]
  Therefore, the electronic data issuing device can specify the transmission path of the request information that issued / issued the electronic data based on the path information. Therefore, there is an effect that it is possible to realize an electronic data supply system that does not cause a trouble even when a user requests a plurality of agents to order electronic data at the same time..
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing an outline of a configuration of a license issuing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a network configuration of the license issuing system shown in FIG.
3 is a flowchart of an ordering process by a terminal device of the license issuing system shown in FIG.
4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of license ordering information and a terminal identifier generated by a terminal device of the license issuing system shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of license order information and a terminal identifier generated by the terminal device of the license issuing system shown in FIG. 1;
6 is a flowchart of order information relay processing by the license relay device of the license issuing system shown in FIG. 1;
7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of license ordering information, ordering route information, and a terminal identifier transmitted by the license relay device of the license issuing system shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
8 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of license ordering information, ordering route information, and a terminal identifier transmitted by the license relay device of the license issuing system shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
9 is an explanatory diagram showing still another example of license ordering information, ordering route information, and a terminal identifier transmitted by the license relay device of the license issuing system shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a destination list stored in the license issuing device of the license issuing system shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the destination list stored in the license issuing device of the license issuing system shown in FIG. 1;
12 is an explanatory diagram showing still another example of the destination list stored in the license issuing device of the license issuing system shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
13 is a flowchart of license issuance processing by the license issuance apparatus of the license issuance system shown in FIG.
FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a license key generated by the license issuing device of the license issuing system shown in FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
  1 License issuing device (electronic data issuing device)
  2 License relay device (relay device)
  3 Terminal equipment
  4 License issuing system (electronic data supply system)
11 License key issuing unit (electronic data issuing means)
21 Ordering information relay sending part (request information relaying means)
M1 license ordering information (request information)
M2 order route information (route information)
M3 terminal identifier
M4 license key (electronic data)
R1, R2 route
S21 to S24 (request information transmission process)
S35, S37 (electronic data issuing process)

Claims (12)

The terminal device and the electronic data issuing device are communicably connected via a communication network through a plurality of routes, and at least one relay device is disposed on each route, and the terminal device has request information. An electronic data supply system in which an electronic data issuing device issues electronic data requested by the terminal device and transmits the electronic data to a terminal device ,
The relay device includes a request information relay reception unit and a request information relay transmission unit,
The electronic data issuing device is an electronic data supply method in an electronic data supply system comprising a request information receiving unit and an electronic data issuing unit ,
The request information relay accepting unit receives a terminal identifier for identifying the terminal device and the request information from the terminal device or another relay device, and also displays route information indicating a history of the request information being relayed. Receive processing received from another relay device;
The request information relay sending unit appends information specifying the position of its own device in the communication network to the route information received in the receiving process, or the route information has not been received in the receiving process. In this case, the route information is generated, information specifying the position of the own device is added to the route information, and the route information is added to the route information together with the request information received in the receiving process and the terminal identifier. Request information transmission processing for transmitting to another relay device or the electronic data issuing device based on the destination list stored in the device ;
When the request information receiving unit receives the request information transmitted in the request information transmission process together with the route information and the terminal identifier, the electronic data issuing unit receives the request information and route received by the request information receiving unit. After storing the information and terminal identifier, waiting for the same request identifier with the same terminal identifier for the predetermined grace period, specified by the route information of the route selected based on the judgment criteria included in the stored request information An electronic data issuing process for issuing the electronic data corresponding to the request information and including the route information and the terminal identifier ,
The relay device includes processing for transmitting electronic data issued in the electronic data issuance processing to another relay device or the terminal device based on path information and a terminal identifier included in the electronic data. Electronic data supply method. An electronic data supply system in which an electronic data issuing device issues electronic data requested by request information by a terminal device via a communication network and transmits the electronic data to the terminal device,
The terminal device and the electronic data issuing device are communicably connected by a plurality of routes, and at least one relay device is disposed in each route, and
The relay device is
Request information for receiving a terminal identifier for specifying the terminal device and the request information from the terminal device or another relay device, and receiving from the other relay device route information indicating a history of the request information being relayed. Relay reception and
In the route information received by the request information relay reception unit, information specifying the position of the own device in the communication network is added, or when the request information relay reception unit does not receive the route information, Generate route information, add information specifying the location of the device to the route information, and store the route information in the device together with the request information received by the request information relay reception unit and the terminal identifier. A request information relay transmission unit for transmitting to another relay device or the electronic data issuing device based on the transmitted destination list ,
The electronic data issuing device
A request information receiving unit that receives the request information transmitted from the request information relay transmission unit together with the route information and the terminal identifier;
The request information received by the request information receiving unit, the route information, and the terminal identifier are stored, and after waiting for the same request information for the same terminal identifier and the same terminal identifier, the judgment criteria included in the stored request information the relay device specified by the path information of a selected path based on, in response to the request information, and an electronic data issuing unit for issuing said electronic data including the route information and the terminal identifier,
The relay device transmits electronic data issued by the electronic data issuing unit to another relay device or the terminal device based on path information and a terminal identifier included in the electronic data. system. The electronic data supply system according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined grace period is specified by grace period information included in the request information. The above criterion is priority,
The electronic data supply system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the electronic data issuing unit selects a route having the highest priority. The above criteria are price information,
  The electronic data supply system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the electronic data issuing unit selects a route with the lowest charge information. 6. The electronic data supply system according to claim 2, wherein the electronic data is a license key that enables use of digital content in the terminal device. An electronic data issuing device included in the electronic data supply system according to any one of claims 2 to 6,
  An electronic data issuing device comprising the request information receiving unit and the electronic data issuing unit. A relay device included in the electronic data supply system according to any one of claims 2 to 6,
  A relay apparatus comprising the request information relay receiving unit and the request information relay sending unit. An electronic data issuing program for operating an electronic data issuing device included in the electronic data supply system according to any one of claims 2 to 6,
  An electronic data issuing program for causing a computer to function as the request information receiving unit and the electronic data issuing unit. A computer-readable recording medium on which the electronic data issuing program according to claim 9 is recorded. A relay program for operating a relay device included in the electronic data supply system according to any one of claims 2 to 6,
  A relay program for causing a computer to function as the request information relay reception unit and the request information relay transmission unit. The computer-readable recording medium which recorded the relay program of Claim 11.

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