JPH0410191A - On-line automatic software vending machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To lend a stocked and managed software per hour and to supply it by one-line mail-order business by controlling the supply of the software to be transferred from a host station is respect to an objective computer only for set time. CONSTITUTION:Based on contraction information stored in a first storing means, automatic software vending machines VM1-VMn temporarily store automatic sale contraction softwares, which are transferred by on-line communication from a host station H to totally stock and manage various softwares, into a second storing means. Then, the softwares stored in this second storing means are supplied to a computer CP as the use object under he supply control of a supply control means. Then, the softwares stored in the second storing means are automatically extinguished through a software extinguishing means on the condition of reaching the contraction time stored in the first storing means.

Description

[Detailed Description of the Invention] [Industrial Field of Application] This invention relates to an online connection via a telephone line to a host station where various software is stored and managed, and the stored and managed software is rented out by the hour or used for communication. The present invention relates to an online software vending machine that provides online software to contracted users' computers.

[Background Art] In recent years, the spread of personal computers, office computers, workstations, etc. (hereinafter collectively simply referred to as computers) has been remarkable. Furthermore, the development of software, which can be said to be the driving force behind the use of these computers, is also active, and the field of development includes not only so-called business software such as word processors, spreadsheet software, and database software, but also painting software. , music software, game software, and a wide variety of other fields.

By the way, although these various types of software have only recently become available as relatively inexpensive software, so-called packaged software, it is still difficult for individual users as well as corporate users to use it.
The reality is that many of them are expensive in terms of their usage and cost value, and the reality is that they do not fully meet the needs of computer users who want to use various application software easily and easily.

In other words, no matter how great software is completed and requires a great deal of cost and effort to develop, the only way to introduce it to users has been through magazine advertisements or Since the only options were to hold large-scale information sessions that also served as advertisements, or to distribute trial versions with limited functionality, it was difficult to effectively and easily make users understand the excellent functions of the software. In the end, many pieces of software ended up being buried without being truly used or utilized.

[Problem to be solved by the invention] In the past, although there was a demand and desire for software usage from the user's perspective, from the viewpoint of the software house involved in software development and sales, it was difficult to truly utilize the software. Even if there was excellent software that we wanted to use, there was almost no environment or means to introduce it easily and easily, and to make it available for use. At present, it cannot be said that software development and operation are well planned.

This invention was made in view of these circumstances, and aims to supply various software provided by software houses online to the computers of contracted users simply and easily, and in an orderly manner. The object of the present invention is to provide an online software vending contract vending machine that can simultaneously solve the above-mentioned inconveniences faced by both software houses.

[Means for Solving the Problems] In order to realize such an automatic software sales environment, the present invention proposes to install a host station that can collectively store and manage various software provided by software house companies. As a premise, the host station and the software vending machine are connected online via a telephone line.

The software vending machine in question includes: (a) a first storage means for storing the software rental time set through the computer user who has entered into the vending contract;

(b) a second storage means for storing software transferred from the host station;

(C) Supply control means for controlling supply of the software stored in the second storage means to the target computer.

(d) Software extinguishing means for automatically extinguishing the software stored in the second storage means on the condition that the rental time of the software stored in the first storage means is reached.

The configuration shall include at least the following.

[Operation] The first storage means is a storage means for storing the contents of the automatic sales contract, and the second storage means is a storage means for storing the software itself under the automatic sales contract. . That is, according to this software vending machine, based on the contract information stored in the first storage means, the vending contract software transferred online from the host station is temporarily stored in the second storage means. The software stored in the second storage means is supplied to the computer to be used through the supply control by the supply control means. Moreover, the software stored in the second storage means is automatically deleted through the software deletion means on the condition that the contract time stored in the first storage means is reached. , a minimum level of order will be maintained in prohibiting the illegal use of software.

Note that the second storage means is a storage medium (for example, a 1-hard disk, etc.) with a large capacity that can collectively store all of the software for which the automatic sales contract is contracted,
By supplying the software (program) from such a storage medium to a computer that is to use the software, the computer can view the vending machine itself as a type of external storage device with sufficient storage capacity. It also becomes possible to use it in a certain way.

Additionally, to prohibit illegal use of the software,
When transferring software from the host station, an effective method is to superimpose an encrypted signal on the software to provide so-called protection.

In this case, the vending machine further includes (e) intervening between the second storage means and the supply control means to decode and remove the encrypted signal while storing it in the second storage means. decryption means for transmitting the decoded software to the supply control means;

The configuration includes the following.

By providing a means of decoding the code in this way,
The software transferred from the above host station is
The protected state is maintained while the software is stored in the storage means of the software, and the protection is removed only when the software is supplied to the computer that is to be used, thereby promoting more orderly usage. It becomes like this.

Also, here we have only mentioned the case where the software stored and managed by the host station is rented by the hour through the vending machine, but in addition to such a system for renting the software by the hour, there is also a system that also sells the same software by mail order. Of course, it is also possible to do so.

[Embodiment] FIG. 7 shows the concept of a software vending environment that is a prerequisite for using the software vending machine according to the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 7, the present invention is based on the premise of installing a host station H that can collectively store and manage various software provided by software houses or individuals. This host station H mainly includes a storage section H1 consisting of a large-capacity storage medium for storing these various types of software, and manages the software stored in this storage section H1, which will be described later as the host station H. A management unit H2 that provides and executes various user services is connected to a plurality of software vending machines according to the present invention via a telephone line, and information is exchanged between these vending machines and the management unit H2. The modem H3 converts and demodulates various information including the software itself into signals in a predetermined format, and the software usage status and contract records of each user in the software vending environment are collectively registered through the management unit H2. a recording section H4,
It is composed of

In the example shown below, when transferring software from this host station H to each software vending machine, the management section H2 transmits an encrypted signal consisting of several predetermined patterns to the software to be transferred. It is assumed that so-called protection is applied by superimposing one or more of these software, thereby preventing unauthorized use of these software.

Further, in FIG. 7, VMI to VM n indicate the corresponding software vending machines connected to the modem H3 of the host station H via a telephone line,
When actually using the software sold through the vending machines VM1 to VMn, as shown in FIG.
Then, these vending machines VMI to VMn are externally connected.

FIG. 8 shows an external configuration of an embodiment of such a software vending machine VM.

In the software vending machine shown in FIG.
1 is a keyboard, 12 is a display, and 7 is a floppy disk device, which is detachably connected to the main body of the computer via an appropriate cable (not shown).

Also, among the keys of the keyboard 11 illustrated in FIG. 8, the rMJ key is a key for displaying the software menu screen, and the rRJ key is a key for displaying the software menu screen. use,
A key for displaying contract records, etc. The "s" key is pressed when saving data generated using various software to a diskette (floppy disk) inserted into the floppy disk device 7. Key The rOJ key is used for software ordering operations, etc., which will be described later.
Keys to be pressed in advance when communicating with the host station via the keyboard 11 or display 12 of the vending machine The "C" key is the key to call the host station The rYJ key is the key to call the host station In response to the so-called “Yes (Y)/No (N)?” question from J.
The rNJ key is the same key that is pressed when selecting "Yes," and the key group 11a is the numeric key.The key group 11b is the arrow (cursor movement) key. 11c indicates an execution key.

FIG. 1 schematically shows the internal configuration of the software vending machine according to the embodiment, and the specific configuration and functions of the vending machine according to the embodiment will be explained below with reference to FIG. 1. do.

In this vending machine, 1 is a power supply device (battery) that supplies power to each of the following elements constituting the vending machine, and 2 is a power supply device (battery) that is built into the vending machine and connects the telephone line. This is a modem that converts and demodulates various information such as software exchanged with the host station H connected via the host station H into signals in a predetermined format.

Further, 3 is an input/output device that mainly controls the input/output of various signals exchanged between the modem 2 and the computer CP and the vending machine main body. A computer interface 31 exclusively executes input/output control and signal format conversion for signals exchanged with the vending machine, and a code superimposed on the software to be transferred by the host station H. A decoding unit 32 that decodes and removes signals, and a modem interface 33 that exclusively performs input/output control and signal format conversion for signals exchanged between the modem 2 and the vending machine. has been done.

Further, in this embodiment, 4 is a main control N (CPU) that collectively controls various operations of the software vending machine.
), 51 is a program memory (for example, ROM) in which various control programs by the main control unit 4 are stored in advance.
, 52 is a data memory (52) in which various data such as sales contract information input through the keyboard 11, as well as data generated each time the main control unit 4 executes various controls, are temporarily stored. For example, RAM)
Substantially, the main control and processing of the software vending machine is executed through each of these elements. The program memory 51 includes: (a) a program that automatically calls a host station through a telephone line based on a predefined key operation;

(b) A device number unique to each of these vending machines (this is, for example, number information set by a dip switch, etc. not shown, or read into the data memory 52 at startup)
A program for automatically transmitting to a host station when there is a logical connection with the host station, that is, when the line is connected. (C) Information indicating the encryption pattern of each encryption signal superimposed on the software when the software is transferred from the host station (this is also notified from the host station along with the transfer of the software) is stored in the data memory 52. A program for controlling the decryption operation of the decryption unit 32 according to the cryptographic pattern indicated by the stored information.

(d) A program that automatically erases the software stored in the hard disk drive 8 as described below on the condition that the contract time stored in the data memory 52 is reached in the "rental mode" described below.

(e) A program that automatically erases the software stored in the hard disk drive 8 on the condition that the transfer of the software stored in the hard disk drive 8 is completed in the "purchase mode" described later.

etc. shall also be included.

In addition, in this embodiment of the vending machine, 6 is a floppy disk controller that controls reading and writing of data to and from the diskette DK of the above-mentioned floppy disk device [7] based on instructions from the main controller 4; 9 is a hard disk device in which information such as software transferred from the host station H, cumulative contract records for these software, cumulative contract records, etc. is stored; A hard disk control device 10 that controls reading and writing of data on the computer transmits user commands through the keyboard 11 to the main control unit 4, and also controls the display 12 based on the commands from the main control unit 4. This is a console control unit that performs display control.

Note that the diskette DK inserted into the floppy disk device 7 may be used not only as a data disk but also as a menu disk distributed in advance to contracted users (users of the software vending machine). There is. Incidentally, this menu disk is data related to (a) a list of all software stored and managed by the host station, advertising menus such as prices, and ordering menus;

(b) A program for displaying these menu data.

(C) A program for guiding ordering operations, etc.

etc. are pre-stored diskettes. These programs and data are automatically read by the main control section 4 when the vending machine is started up. Of course, these programs may also be stored in the hard disk drive 8.

Now, FIGS. 2 to 4 show examples of operations of such an embodiment software vending machine, and FIGS. 5 to 6 show examples of images displayed on the display 12 during the process of executing these operations. Next, with reference to these figures, the actual operation of the software vending machine according to the embodiment and the specific operation of the vending machine based on the operation will be described in detail. .

Now, as shown in FIG. 2, if the power of the vending machine is turned on, the condition is that the battery state of the power supply device 1 is normal, that is, normal power supply is possible (second
In steps S1 and S2 in the figure, the main control unit 4 starts executing its preset processing and control in the manner listed below.

(1) Assume that the user presses the "0" key on the keyboard 11 and specifies that a software ordering operation is to be performed through the vending machine (step S in Figure 2).
3), on the condition that the above menu disk is inserted into the floppy disk device 7 (step S4 in Figure 2).
), run and display the advertising menu mentioned above (
Step S5 in FIG. 2), waits for the next operation by the user.

In addition, if the above-mentioned menu disk is inserted and read on the computer side to which the vending machine is connected without pressing the "0" key, such a menu will not be displayed. , all processes similar to those listed below are executed on the computer side. In addition, whether the process is through the vending machine or the computer, the user may perform an operation to cancel the previous operation or process (an arbitrary key can be defined, for example, the rYJ key). (such as pressing the rNJ key at the same time), the process returns to step S5 in FIG. 2.

(2) Suppose that the user presses the execution key llc within an appropriate timer period (for example, 5 minutes) while the advertisement menu is displayed (step S in FIG. 2).
6 and S7), the main control unit 4 then, for example, as shown in FIG. 5(a).
A mode selection screen as shown in FIG. 2 is displayed on the display 12 (step S8 in FIG. 2), and the system enters a standby state.

Here, as shown in FIG. 5(a), in this embodiment vending machine: 1. Software rental mode: Among the software (application programs) stored and managed by the host station, A mode in which items selected and specified by the user are contracted and sold on an hourly basis.

2. Software purchase mode: A mode in which software (application programs) stored and managed at the host station that is selected and specified by the user is contracted and sold as being purchased by the user.

3. Data management mode: For users who do not have a large-capacity storage device such as a hard disk drive, or for users who want to build a large-scale database, the storage unit H1 of the host station (Figure 7)
A mode in which user data management services are provided in cooperation with the host station.

4. Data transmission mode: Sends the created data to the host station in order to provide and sell the data (including programs) created by the user of the software vending machine to other vending machine users (for example, the client). , mode to transfer.

5. Data reception mode: Mode in normal state. For example, the rC of [keyboard] 1
By pressing the J key, the host station can be requested to transmit desired data at any time.

There are roughly five processing modes set, and when the user presses the numeric keys corresponding to these numbers, the subsequent processing will proceed according to each of these modes. However, for convenience of explanation, these modes will be explained below in particular: 1. Software rental mode 2. The specific processing operations for the two software purchase modes will be described.

First, if 1. Software rental mode is selected by the user on the mode selection screen (step S9 in FIG. 2), the main control unit 4 further operates as shown in FIGS. 3(a) to (c). Based on the procedure, the predetermined process is restarted and executed in the manner listed below.

(1) Through the display 12, the user is asked whether to select between displaying the software menu or displaying the user's past usage record of the vending machine (for example, in monthly units). FIG. 3(a) step 5100).

(2) If it is determined that the rRJ key is pressed and the display of the usage record is specified (see Fig. 3),
a) Step 5101), based on the information stored in the hard disk drive 8 at that time, such as cumulative software usage records, cumulative contract records, etc., these are displayed on the display 12 in a predetermined format (Step 51 in FIG. 3(a)
02)L. Thereafter, when the user presses the execution key 11C (step 5103 in FIG. 3(a)), the process returns to the process (1) above (step 5100 in FIG. 3(a)).

(3) At this point, if it is determined that the rMJ key is pressed and the display of the software menu is specified (step 5101 in FIG. 3(a)), for example, the fifth A genre list with contents as shown in Figure (b) is displayed on the display 12 (
In step 5104 of FIG. 3(a), the device enters a standby state.

(4) Suppose that the number of the type desired by the user, for example "01" corresponding to "word processor", is inputted using the numeric key in the genre list (step 5105 in FIG. 3(a)), The main control unit 4 further displays a software list as shown in FIG. 5(C) on the display 12 as a lower menu screen (step 5106 in FIG. 3(a)), and returns to the standby state again. Become.

(5) For this software list, suppose that the number of the software desired by the user, for example, the number ro 123J corresponding to "rABC word" is also input using the numeric keys (FIG. 3<11) Step 510
7) This time, the specified product (software) is displayed alone on the display 12, and the user is asked to confirm whether or not to order the specified product (third step). Figure (a) Step 510
8), on condition that the rYJ key is operated (step 5109 in FIG. 3(a)), a screen with contents as shown in FIG. 5(d), for example, is displayed on the display 12 as an order screen. (Step 5IIO in FIG. 3(a)).

(6) When the order screen is displayed in this state, password input and order (in the case of this mode, contract time related to hourly rental) input from the user are not accepted (3rd page).
In step 5ill of FIG. 3(a), when the user is notified that the input for all items has been completed by pressing the execution key thereafter (step 5112 of FIG. 3(a)
), a confirmation screen based on this contract details will be displayed on Display 12.
(step 811 in FIG. 3(a)).
3) Through the same display 12, a call operation to the host station is prompted upon completion of the contract. In this example, this operation is assumed to be an operation of pressing the "C" key and the execution key at the same time (step 5114 in FIG. 3(a)).

(7) Here, if the user operates the rNJ key to request cancellation of the contract (step 5115 in FIG. 3(a)), or if a predetermined waiting time such as 3 minutes has elapsed (FIG. 3(a) In step 5116), the process returns to step (1) above (step 5100 in FIG. 3(a)), and in other cases, the user calls the host station while the confirmation screen is displayed on the display 12. Wait for operation.

(8) When the user executes this host station calling operation (step 5114 in FIG. 3(a)), the above contract details are registered and stored in the data memory 52 (FIG. 3(a)).
step 5117) and automatically calls the host station (step 5117).
FIG. 3(a) Step 5118) Waits for line connection (FIG. 3(a) Step S119).

(9) In this example, when waiting for this line connection, the process is waited until the third call (step 5 in Fig. 3 (a)
120), if line connection is still not established, a busy message is displayed on the display 12 (step 5121 in FIG. 3(a)), and the host station calling operation by the user is awaited again.

(10) When the line connection with the host station is confirmed by the above calling operation, the main control unit 4 next records the contract details registered in the data memory 52 together with the equipment number of the vending machine. The information is transferred to the host station (step 5122 in FIG. 3(b)) and waits for the host station to determine whether the user's qualifications are appropriate (step 3123 in FIG. 3(b)).

(11) As a result, if it is determined that the user qualifications are inappropriate, a warning such as "Password is incorrect" is issued through the display 12 (step 5124 in FIG. 3(b)).
), the display of the previous order screen (Fig. 3 (a) Step S
Return to 110).

(12) In determining the appropriateness of the user qualification,
If it is determined that the user qualifications are appropriate, the contracted software is transferred from the host station in a protected state (with an encrypted signal superimposed) as described above (Figure 3 (b)). Step 5125). Therefore, on the vending machine side (main control unit 4), this transferred software is stored in the hard disk device 8 while being protected (step 5126 in FIG. 3(b)).
At the same time, information indicating the current encryption pattern of the encryption signal superimposed on the software (added to the transfer software) is stored in the data memory 52,
On the condition that the transfer is completed, the logically connected line is disconnected (step 5127 in FIG. 3(b)).

(13) After that, the main control unit 4 starts its own built-in timer (hereinafter referred to as the contract timer) (step 5128 in FIG. ) is displayed on the display 12 (step 5129 in FIG. 3(b)). Note that this usage information is always displayed on the display 12 until the contracted time is reached, while updating the "remaining time" column. In addition, the usage information is
In the following "operation mode during computer operation",
2 can also be displayed on the display of the computer CP used, and in this case, for example, when a predefined key (for example, rHomeJ key, etc.) is pressed,
Wisdom is displayed on a part of the same display screen.

Through the above processes (1) to (13), the rental contracted software is secured in the hard disk drive 8 in the vending machine, and from then on, the "computer operation" is to actually use this secured software on the computer CP. The operating mode is based on The main control unit 4 then proceeds to the next listed process.

(■4) On the condition that the vending machine is actually connected to the computer CP (step 813 in FIG. 3(b)
0), the code decryptor 32 is activated, and thereafter, in response to the user's operation of the computer CP, that is, the execution operation of the contracted software (application program), the file (program) required each time is targeted. This is transferred to the computer via the computer interface 31 so that it is captured in the system memory of the computer (step 3131 in FIG. 3(b)). Note that the computer interface 31
At this time, it will act as an interpreter between the program stored in the hard disk drive 8 in the vending machine and the target computer, but the computer side will transmit the hard disk drive to the vending machine. 8
If a command (such as a copy command) that forces files stored on the computer to be transferred to the computer is entered, this function will be ignored, thereby preventing unauthorized use of the rental contract software. , this interface 31 is also included. Also, at this time, as described above, the decryption unit 32 removes the protection of the transfer software (decrypts and removes the superimposed encrypted signal) based on the information indicating the encryption pattern stored in the data memory 52 at that time. That's right.

(15) In parallel, the main control unit 4 constantly monitors the contract time by referring to the contract timer (step 5132 in FIG. 3(b)), and also monitors the contract time via the computer interface 31. 3(b).
Step 8133), if the user performs such a termination operation before the contracted time, confirmation is requested through the display of the target computer or the display 12 installed in the vending machine (step 8133).
If the computer or the vending machine's rYJ key is operated (FIG. 3(b) step 8135), the contract timer inside the main control unit 4 is temporarily set. Stop (step 8136 in FIG. 3(b)). In addition, monitoring of the above contract hours (Figure 3 (b)
) If it is determined in step 8132) that the contract time has been reached, the process moves to temporarily stop the contract timer (step 8137 in FIG. 3(b)). Regarding the monitoring of the contracted time, it is of course possible to use a processing mode in which the user is notified of this in advance a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes, etc.) before the contracted time is reached.

(16) After stopping the contract timer in this way, for example,
Save your data. Insert the data disk into the floppy disk drive and press the Enter key when ready. ” on one or both displays and waits (steps 8138 and 8139 in FIG. 3(c)).

(17) After that, on the condition that the user presses the execution key (which may be on the computer side or the vending machine side), the data created up to that point will be transferred to the hard disk device 8 and the data disk (also 3 (C) step 5140)) and automatically calls the host station as described above (FIG. 3 (C) step S).
141) Wait for line connection (Figure 3(c) Step 5
142).

(18) Here, when waiting for this line connection, processing is waited until the third call (step 314B in Fig. 3(c)).
), and if the line connection still cannot be established,
Execute the above automatic host station call again.

(19) When the line connection with the host station is confirmed in this way, the main control unit 4 then asks, for example, “A, do you want to end?”

Would you like to extend it for 83 hours? ” through the display (which may be on either the computer or the vending machine) (see Figure 3).
c) Step 5144), wait for user selection.

(20) If the user selects "End" here (
3(C) step 5145), the main control unit 4 switches the display on the display to a screen as shown in FIG. 5(f) as the payment screen (FIG. 3(c) step 5146). ), the actual execution time of the contracted software (in the case of termination due to the expiration of the contracted time, it will be the pre-contracted time; however, in the case of termination in the middle of the contracted time,
In accordance with the time period from when the above-mentioned contract timer is started until it is stopped by the above-mentioned process (15), the settlement is made and the details of the settlement are transferred to the host station. Step 5147), and after writing the payment details to the above-mentioned predetermined area for storing recorded data of the hard disk device 8 (Step 51 in FIG. 3(c)
48), disconnect the logical line connection state at that point (
FIG. 3(c) step 5149). Furthermore, the contracted software stored in the hard disk drive 8 is automatically deleted (step 5150 in FIG. 3(C)), and the software enters the "rental mode" as the software vending machine. Terminate all processing.

(21) On the other hand, if the user selects "time extension" (step 5151 in FIG. 3(c)), the main control unit 4 changes the display through the display to the order screen (
For example, after switching to a screen similar to the one shown in FIG. 5(d) above (step 5152 in FIG. 3(c)) and accepting another human order related to the "time extension" ( 3 (.) step 3153), the confirmation screen is redisplayed in response to the user pressing the execution key (FIG. 3 (C) step S 154). FIG. 3 (C) step 51
55), on the condition that the user presses the execution key again (step 5156 in FIG. 3(C)), the contract contents (contract time) registered in the data memory 52 up to that point are updated. (FIG. 3(c) step 5157) and disconnects the line (FIG. 3(c) step 5158). Then, the previously stopped contract timer is started again (step 5159 in FIG. 3(C)), and the previous software usage information (see FIG. 5(e)) is displayed in step 5129 in FIG. 3(b). Return to processing.

As mentioned above, with this "rental mote", the contracted user can freely select and set the software stored and managed at the host station as well as the usage time, so any software can be used. Even so,
Its simple and easy use will be achieved.

Next, on the mode selection screen (see step S8 in FIG. 2 and FIG. 5(a)), if the user selects 2. software purchase mode (step 510 in FIG. 2), the main control unit 4 restarts and executes the predetermined processing in the manner listed below based on the procedure shown in FIGS. 4(a) to 4(b).

(1) Through the display 12, the user is asked whether to select between displaying the software menu or displaying the user's past usage record of the vending machine (for example, in monthly units). FIG. 4(a) step 5200).

(2) If it is determined that the rRJ key is pressed and the display of the usage record is specified (see Fig. 4),
a) Step 5201), based on the information stored in the hard disk drive 8 at that time, such as cumulative software usage records, cumulative contract records, etc., these are displayed on the display 12 in a predetermined format (Step 52 in FIG. 4(a)
02) L. Thereafter, when the execution key 11c is pressed by the user (step 8203 in FIG. 4(a)), the process returns to the process in (1) above (step 5200 in FIG. 4(a)).

(3) At this point, if it is determined that the rMJ key has been pressed and the display of the software menu has been designated (step 5201 in FIG. 4(a)), the upper menu screen, for example, A genre list as shown in FIG. 5(b) is displayed on the display 12 (step 5204 in FIG. 4(a)), and a standby state is entered.

(4) If the number of the type desired by the user is entered into the genre list, for example, the number 01J corresponding to "word processor" is entered using the numeric key (step 5205 in FIG. 4(a)), the main The control unit 4 further displays a software list as shown in FIG. 6(a) on the display 12 as a lower menu screen (step 5206 in FIG. 4(a)), and returns to the standby state. .

(5) Suppose that the number of the software desired by the user, for example, ro 123J corresponding to the "rABC word" is inputted using the numeric key in the software list (step 5207 in FIG. 4(a)).
, This time, while displaying this specified product (software) alone on the display 12,
, the user is asked to confirm whether or not to order the specified product (step 8208 in FIG. 4(a)).
, and on the condition that the rYJ key is operated (step 5209 in FIG. 4(a)), the order screen is displayed as follows:
For example, a screen with contents as shown in FIG. 6(b) is newly displayed on the display 12 (step S210 in FIG. 4(a)).

(6) In this display state of the order screen, the password input from the user is accepted (step 5211 in FIG. 4(a)), and by pressing the execution key thereafter, the user is notified that the password input has been completed. Then, the confirmation screen based on the contract details is displayed again on the display 12 (Step 8213 in FIG. 4(a)), and the confirmation screen based on the contract details is displayed on the display 12 (Step 5212 in FIG. 4(a)). Prompts calling operation. As mentioned above, this operation is an operation of pressing the "C" key and the execution key at the same time (see Fig. 4).
a) Step 5214).

(7) Here, if the user operates the rNJ key to request cancellation of the contract (step 5215 in FIG. 4(a)), or if a predetermined waiting time such as 3 minutes has elapsed (FIG. 4(a)) In step 5216), the process returns to step (1) (step 5200 in FIG. 4(a)), and in other cases, the user calls the host station while the confirmation screen is displayed on the display 12. Wait for operation.

(8) When the user executes this host station calling operation (step 5214 in FIG. 4(a)), the above contract details are registered and stored in the data memory 52 as shown in FIG. 4(a).
step 5217) and automatically calls the host station (step 5217).
FIG. 4(a) Step 5218) Waits for line connection (FIG. 4(a) Step S219).

(9) Again, when waiting for this line connection, wait for processing until the third call (step 522 in Fig. 4(a)
0), if line connection is still not established, a busy message is displayed on the display 12 (step 5221 in FIG. 4(a)), and the host station calling operation by the user is awaited again.

(10) When the line connection with the host station is confirmed by the above calling operation, the main control unit 4 next records the contract details registered in the data memory 52 together with the equipment number of the vending machine. The information is transferred to the host station (FIG. 4(b), step 5222), and the host station waits for a determination as to whether the user's qualifications are appropriate (FIG. 4(b), step 3223).

(11) As a result, if it is determined that the user qualifications are inappropriate, a warning such as "Password is incorrect" is issued through the display 12 (step 5224 in FIG. 4(b)).
), display of the previous order screen (Fig. 4 (a) Step S
Return to 210).

(12) In determining the appropriateness of the user qualification,
If it is determined that the user qualifications are appropriate, the contracted software is transferred from the host station in a protected state (encrypted signal is superimposed) as described above (Figure 4 (b)). Step 5225). Therefore, on the vending machine side (main control unit 4), this transferred software is stored in the hard disk device 8 while being protected (step 5226 in FIG. 4(b)).
At the same time, information indicating the current encryption pattern of the encryption signal superimposed on the software (added to the transfer software) is stored in the data memory 52,
On the condition that the transfer is completed, the logically connected line is disconnected (step 5227 in FIG. 4(b)).

(13) Next, the main control unit 4 says, ``The contracted software will be transferred to the computer. When the computer and transfer optical disk are ready, press the execution key.''

” on the display 12 and waits (steps 5228 and 5229 in FIG. 4(b)).

(14) Then, on the condition that the execution key is pressed by the user, the decryptor 32 is activated, and the purchase contract software stored in the hard disk drive 8 is transmitted via the computer interface 31. Transfer to a user-designated transfer optical disk installed in the computer (step 82 in FIG. 4(b))
30). At this time as well, the decryption unit 32 executes protection removal for the transcription software (decryption removal of the superimposed encrypted signal) based on the information indicating the encryption pattern stored in the data memory 52 at that time. .

(I5) After confirming that the software transfer has been completed (step 3231 in FIG. 4(b)), the main control unit 4 finally displays a termination screen as shown in FIG. 6(C), for example. 4(b) step 32B2), at which point the data memory 5
After writing the purchase contract contents (settlement contents) stored in 2 into the predetermined area of the hard disk drive 8 for storing recorded data (step 523 in FIG. 4(b)
3) The contract software stored in the hard disk drive 8 is automatically deleted (step 3234 in FIG. 4(b)). Then, all processes related to the "purchase mode" of the software vending machine are completed.

As mentioned above, in this "purchase mode", contracted users can freely select and purchase software stored and managed at the host station, and moreover, online. Software can be used (purchased) simply and easily.

In addition, whether in the above-mentioned "rental mode" or this "purchase mode," the contract software transferred from the host station and stored in the hard disk drive 8 will be immediately deleted after the contract ends, and the contract software will be The data is protected until just before it is supplied to or transferred to the computer to be transferred or transferred.
Since the protection is removed only when the software is supplied to or transferred to these computers, it is extremely safe to operate the software in such an online environment, and good order can be maintained during operation. be done. Furthermore, the above protection is applied and multiple encryption patterns are prepared for decoding and removal, and the superimposition of the encrypted signal and the decoding and removal of the same encrypted signal are carried out using the pattern each time. There is also less risk of unauthorized decoding by a third party.

In addition, we have omitted to illustrate the detailed procedures for 3 other than these "rental mode" and "purchase mode", data management mode 4, data transmission mode 5, and data reception mode, or we have omitted the illustrations for each of these modes. After the corresponding mode is selected on the previous mode selection screen (see step S8 in Fig. 2 and Fig. 5 (a)), the host station is automatically called, and the communication with the called host station is established. In order to execute each of the services mentioned above, the user is guided through the necessary operations each time, and the manner in which various data are exchanged during these operations is basically in accordance with the above explanation. ing. Incidentally, in order to provide the program or data created by the user of the first software vending machine to other users of the second software vending machine, the user of the first software vending machine may host the program or data in the above-mentioned "4. Data transmission mode". In order for the user of the second software vending machine to receive the program or data created above, the user of the second software vending machine receives the program or data from the host station in the data reception mode J described above. Then, the corresponding sales record is recorded in the recording section (an area in the hard disk device 8) in the first software vending machine, and the recording section (also in the hard disk device 8) in the second software vending machine is recorded. The corresponding purchase record is recorded in the recording section H4 (
(see Figure 7), the relevant sales records and purchase records,
In other words, a sales record will be recorded.

Incidentally, in the above embodiment, it is assumed that the software vending machine itself is equipped with a keyboard 11, a display 12, and a floppy disk device 7, as shown in FIG. In addition, for example, the vending machine has an appearance as shown in Figure 9, and although the vending machine itself has the keyboard, display, and floppy disk device, those on the computer side that are connected to it are used. It may be of the type that does.

In other words, this type of software vending machine, as shown in FIG.
, keyboard 11, and display 12 are removed, all operations are performed via a computer, but its basic functions and processing modes are as shown in FIG. 8 above. It is no different from a type of software vending machine. In addition, in Figure 9, 13
"Access or not", "Line connection", and "
Indicators 1 and 14 each display a lamp to indicate whether the battery status is appropriate or not, and reference numerals 1 and 14 indicate storage portions in which cables for connection to a power supply hood, a computer, a cable for connection to a telephone line, etc. are stored.

In addition, in the case of this type of software vending machine, the menu disk mentioned above is used by being inserted into the floppy disk device on the computer side, or its function is shared by the hard disk device 8 and becomes unnecessary (although, This situation is similar in the software vending machine of the type shown in FIG. 8).

Further, the shape, specifications, etc. for realizing such a software vending machine are not limited to these examples, and are arbitrary. For example, it is of course possible to implement the same software vending machine as a so-called expansion board that is inserted into an expansion slot that is normally provided in a computer.

In addition, in the explanation of the above embodiment, the software vending machine has the above-mentioned five processing modes (see FIG. 5(a)).
However, this setting is optional, and the above purpose can be achieved as long as there is at least a "rental mode" or a "rental mode" and a "purchase mode".

Moreover, in this case, it is not essential to protect the software when it is transferred from the host station, and the minimum level of order can be maintained by simply deleting the software after the contract has ended.

[Effects of the Invention] As explained above, according to this invention, various software provided by a software house can be automatically supplied online to the contracted user's computer by following a simple procedure. Therefore, computer users can easily and easily use their desired software. Moreover, according to the present invention, a minimum orderliness in using such software can be well maintained.

In addition, in an environment where the orderly supply of software can be realized simply and easily, excellent software will never be left unused and will be used even more. At the same time, more users will be able to use it. This will reflect their opinions, which in turn will lead to further improvements to these software in a positive sense.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of an embodiment of the software vending machine according to the present invention, and FIG.
The figure is a flowchart showing the processing procedure up to processing mode selection and an operation example by the vending machine of this embodiment, and FIG. The flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is as follows.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure and operation example in the "purchase mode" by the vending machine of the same embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the transition of the display screen in the "rental mode," FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the transition of the display screen in the "purchase mode," and FIG. 7 is a software vending environment that is the premise of this invention. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing one example of the external structure of the vending machine according to the embodiment, and FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing another example of the same external structure. Hoo, host station, VM, 9. Software vending machine, cp, , computer, 101. power supply, 201
．． modem, 399. Input/output device, 31. Computer interface, 32. , ,Cryptography Department, 33.
, ,modem interface, 41. , main control section, 51
, , program memory, 52. ,,data memory,
699. Floppy disk control 1.7. . Floppy disk device, 8. ,,hard disk device,908. Hard disk control unit, 10. ,. Console control unit, 11. Keyboard, 12. . Display. 3 Figure 4(b)

Claims (4)

[Claims] (1) A software vending machine that is connected online via a telephone line to a host station where various types of software are stored and managed, and that supplies the stored and managed software online to computers connected to it by the hour. a first storage means for storing the software rental time set through the user of the computer; a second storage means for storing the software transferred from the host station; and a second storage means for storing the software transferred from the host station. a supply control means for controlling the supply of the software stored in the second storage means to the computer; An online software vending machine comprising: a software extinguishing means that causes the software to be extinguished automatically. (2) The software transferred from the host station is software on which an encrypted signal is superimposed, and the software vending machine is interposed between the second storage means and the supply control means, and the software is superimposed with an encrypted signal. 2. The online software vending machine according to claim 1, further comprising decryption means for decrypting and removing the signal while transferring the software stored in the second storage means to the supply control means. (3) Software that connects online via a telephone line to a host station where various software is stored and managed, and supplies the stored and managed software online to computers connected to it by renting it by the hour or by mail order. A vending machine comprising: a first storage means for storing software rental time or sales contract information set through a user of the computer; and a second storage means for storing software transferred from the host station. , Based on the contract contents stored in the first storage means, supply control of the software stored in the second storage means to the computer, or supply/transfer of the software to a designated storage medium of the computer; a transfer control means; and a transfer control means for controlling the second storage, on the condition that the rental time of the software stored in the first storage means is reached or the transcription of the software stored in the second storage means is completed. An online software vending machine comprising: a software extinguishing means for automatically extinguishing software stored in the means; (4) The software transferred from the host station is software on which an encrypted signal is superimposed, and the software vending machine is interposed between the second storage means and the supply/transfer control means, The online software vending machine according to claim 3, further comprising decryption means for decoding and removing the coded signal and transferring the software stored in the second storage means to the supply/transfer control means. .