KR100840010B1 - Content data, and its recording medium, recording method, recording apparatus, copying method, reproducing method, reproducing apparatus, and output method - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to content data, a recording medium, a recording method, a recording device, a manufacturing method, a reproducing apparatus, and an output method thereof. Adds additional data including data relating to a period for which a condition relating to is set; records content data to which additional data is added; Extract the additional data including and control the reproduction or reproduction based on the additional data.

Description

Content data and its recording medium, recording method, recording apparatus, duplication method, reproducing method, reproducing apparatus and output method {Content data, and its recording medium, recording method, recording apparatus, copying method, reproducing method, reproducing apparatus, and output method}

The present invention is, for example, a transmission method for transmitting various content data such as audio data, video data, text data, etc., a method for limiting recording or reproduction of content data, and to a device for recording or reproducing content data. It is about.

In providing various contents data such as audio data, video data, text data, etc., various measures are taken to prevent the contents data from being used illegally and to prevent the benefits of the contents data provider from being illegally infringed. This is being taken.

For example, in the case of a so-called CD (Compact Disc) in which audio data such as a piece of music is recorded, the manufacturer of the CD sets a rental prohibition period for prohibiting the loan by the rental company and enters the market. As a result of this decision, it is carried out so as not to lend the CD within a predetermined period.

In electronic content distribution through a communication network such as an EMD (Electronic Music Distribution), the validity period for the use of the content data is set, the communication center is charged, and the validity period of the content data is determined by following the charge. A rewriting method is suggested.

Thus, according to the charge, by using the method of extending the validity period of the use of the content data, only the user who wants to continue to use the content data is convenient for the user, and also for the provider of the content data. The charges for use can be collected.

Even if the rental prohibition period described above is set, this is simply determined by the manufacturer of the CD and the rental company. In other words, even if the rental prohibition period is set for the CD, the CD and the CD player do not restrict playback such as prohibiting reproduction of the CD between the rental prohibitors. Therefore, when a CD for which the rental prohibition period has been set is loaned in the rental prohibition period, no restriction can be imposed on the use of the reproduction or the like of the CD.

In the case of the above-mentioned EMD or the like, the method of rewriting the validity period of the content data cannot be used unless communication between the charge center and the playback terminal device is made available. This involves the task of rewriting the validity period of the user's trial period, and thus loads on the user's device, i.e., the terminal device.

Some content data are set for a test listening period, and during this viewing period, the content data can be used without a charge. However, after the trial period, the charge processing is performed. And communication between the charge center and the playback terminal device is necessary to rewrite the validity period of the content data.

The present invention has been proposed in view of the above-described circumstances, and according to the intention of the provider of the content data, it is possible to more reliably and simply prevent illegal use of the content data in the device on the user side of the content data. A data transmission method capable of performing a charge processing, a method of restricting recording or reproducing of content data, and an object of the present invention is to apply an apparatus for recording or reproducing content data, and moreover, content data to which data is transmitted. And a recording medium on which data is recorded including conditions relating to recording or reproducing of content data.

In the recording medium according to the present invention proposed to achieve the above object, additional data including content data and data relating to conditions relating to the reproduction or reproduction of the content data are recorded. . The additional data includes data for restricting duplication of the content data.

The additional data also includes data for restricting reproduction of the content data. The data for restricting the reproduction includes data indicating at least the period for which reproduction is prohibited.

In the recording method according to the present invention, the additional data including the data concerning the recording restriction of the content data and the additional data relating to the period in which the conditions relating to the recording of the content data are set is supplied to the supplied content data, Encode processing is performed on the added content data, and the encoded data is recorded on the recording medium.

In addition, the recording apparatus according to the present invention includes an additional circuit unit for adding supplied data with additional data including data relating to the limitation of recording of content data and additional data relating to a period during which conditions for recording content data are set. And an encoding processing unit for performing encoding processing on the output data from the additional circuit unit, and a recording unit for recording the output data on the recording medium in the encoding processing unit.

The present invention also relates to a method of copying or playing back content data, and further comprising data relating to a restriction on copying or playing back content data added to content data from supplied content data and a time period for setting conditions for copying or playing back content data. The additional data including the data is extracted, the date set by the data relating to the period of the extracted additional data is compared with the date to be reproduced or reproduced, and the comparison result is a date to be reproduced or reproduced. When indicating that it is within the period set by the period data, the copying or reproducing operation of the content data is controlled based on the data concerning the copying or reproduction limitation of the additional data.

The method for copying or reproducing content data according to the present invention relates to data relating to a restriction or duplication of content data added to content data from supplied content data, and a period during which content data can be freely reproduced or reproduced. Date and first to extract additional data including data relating to the first period and additional data including data relating to the second period relating to the period in which reproduction or reproduction can be carried out for a fee, and to copy or reproduce. When data on the period is compared with data on the second period, and when the comparison result indicates that the date to be copied or reproduced is within the period set by the data on the first period, the copy or reproduction of the content data. And the date of comparison is to be copied or reproduced for the second period. It performs the replication or reproduction of the content data to determine whether or not charged when it indicates that the period is within the set by the data.

In addition, the method of copying or playing back content data according to the present invention is a first data relating to the data relating to the copying or reproduction restriction of content data added to the content data from the supplied content data and the period for prohibiting the copying or playing of the content data. Extracts additional data including data relating to a period and additional data including data relating to a second period relating to a period in which reproduction or reproduction can be carried out for a fee; When data relating to the second period is compared with the related data, and the comparison result indicates that the date to be copied or reproduced is within the period set by the data relating to the first period, duplication or reproduction of the content data is prohibited. And the comparison result indicates that the date of copying or reproducing is When it indicates that there is set within the period, to determine whether or not a subject to perform the replication or reproduction of the content data.

Further, the method for copying or reproducing content data according to the present invention is directed to a method for copying or reproducing content data from the supplied content data, and a period for prohibiting copying or reproducing the content data. Additional data including additional data including data relating to one period and additional data including data relating to a second period in which a period which is partially overlapped with a period set as data relating to the first period can be reproduced for a fee; And compare the data for the first period with the data to be reproduced or reproduced and the data for the second period, and the comparison result sets the date to be reproduced or reproduced by the data for the first period. If it is within the period, the reproduction or reproduction of the content data is prohibited, and the comparison result is Agent or when it indicates that the period is within the set by a date to be to reproduce the data in the second period, it is determined whether or not charged and performs the replication or reproduction of the content data.

In addition, the method for copying or playing back content data according to the present invention is capable of freely copying or playing back data or content data relating to the copying or reproduction restriction of content data added to the content data from the supplied content data. Data relating to the first period relating to the period and data relating to the second period relating to the period during which reproduction or reproduction can be performed for a fee and data relating to the third period relating to the period during which the reproduction or reproduction can be performed for a fee. Extracts additional data including additional data, compares the date to be copied or reproduced with the data relating to the first period, the data relating to the second period, and the data relating to the third period. The result indicates that the date to which copying or reproduction is to be made is within a period set by the data relating to the first period. Is used to copy or reproduce the content data, and when the comparison result indicates that the date to be copied or reproduced is within the period set by the data relating to the second or third period, it is determined whether or not charge is possible. Copy or reproduce the content data.

The method of duplicating content data according to the present invention includes data related to the restriction of duplication of the content data and additional data on a period in which conditions for duplication of at least one content data are set from the supplied content data. Extracts additional data, compares the period set by the data relating to the period of the extracted additional data with the date to be duplicated, and compares the date with the data relating to the period. When indicating that it is within the set period, the copying operation of the content data is prohibited.

Further, the apparatus for recording content data according to the present invention includes data relating to the limitation of recording of the content data and additional data relating to a period in which conditions for recording the content data are set from the provided content data to the content data. An additional data extracted by the extracting unit, having an extracting unit for extracting additional data, an encoding processing unit for encoding the supplied content data, a recording unit for recording the output from the encoding processing unit, and a clock circuit unit; When the period set by the data relating to the period of time is compared with the date to be recorded from the clock circuit unit and the comparison result indicates that the date to be recorded is within the period set by the period data, The recording operation of the content data is controlled based on the data on the recording restriction. It is equipped with a control unit.

The apparatus for reproducing content data according to the present invention includes additional data including data relating to reproduction and reproduction of the content data added to the content data from the supplied content data and additional data relating to a period in which conditions for reproducing the content data are set. A retrieval section for extracting the information, a reproducing processing section for reproducing the supplied content data, and a time circuit section, the period set by the data relating to the period of the additional data extracted by the extracting section, and recording from the clock circuit section. When the date to be recorded is compared and the result of the comparison indicates that the date to be recorded is within the period set by the period data, the reproduction operation of the content data is controlled based on the data on the reproduction restriction of the additional data. It is equipped with a control unit.

The content data handled in the present invention includes content data and additional data including data relating to conditions relating to copying or reproduction of the content data, which are added to the content data.

The present invention adds additional data including supplied data to the supplied content data, and additional data including data relating to the reproduction or reproduction limitation of the content data and additional data relating to a period in which conditions for the reproduction or reproduction of the content data are set. Output the added content data.

Further objects of the present invention and specific advantages obtained by the present invention will become more apparent from the description of the embodiments described below.

1 is a diagram for explaining a data transmission method and a first embodiment of a recording medium according to the present invention.

2 is a view for explaining an example of the manufacturing method of the embodiment of the recording medium according to the present invention.

3 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of the data transmission method according to the present invention.

4 is a block diagram for explaining an embodiment of a recording apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining information stored in the copy count memory of the recording apparatus shown in FIG.

6 and 7 are flowcharts for performing recording processing (recording restriction method) performed in the recording apparatus shown in FIG.

8 is a diagram for explaining a second embodiment of a data transmission method and a recording medium according to the present invention.

9 is a flowchart for explaining the recording process (recording limiting method) performed in the recording apparatus of the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a data transmission method and a recording medium in the case of performing reproduction restrictions according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 11 is a view for explaining a data transmission method and a recording medium in the case of performing reproduction restriction according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram for explaining an embodiment of a reproduction device according to the present invention for reproducing content data shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG.

Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining a third embodiment of a data transmission method and a recording medium according to the present invention.

14 is a block diagram for explaining another example of the recording apparatus according to the present invention.

15 is a flowchart for explaining the recording process (recording limiting method) performed in the recording apparatus of the third embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 16 is a flowchart for explaining a reproducing process (reproduction limiting method) performed in the reproducing apparatus of the third embodiment according to the present invention.

Fig. 17 is a diagram for explaining a fourth embodiment of a data transmission method and a recording medium according to the present invention.

18 and 19 are flowcharts for explaining recording processing (recording restriction method) performed in the recording apparatus of the fourth embodiment according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining a data transmission method in the case of performing reproduction restriction according to the fourth embodiment according to the present invention.

21 is a diagram for explaining a fifth embodiment of a data transmission method and a recording medium according to the present invention.

22 and 23 are flowcharts for explaining recording processing (recording restriction method) performed in the recording apparatus of the fifth embodiment according to the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining a data transmission method in the case of performing reproduction restriction according to the fifth embodiment according to the present invention.

25 is a diagram for explaining a sixth embodiment of a data transmission method and a recording medium according to the present invention.

26 and 27 are flowcharts for explaining recording processing (recording restriction method) performed in the recording apparatus of the sixth embodiment according to the present invention.

28 and 29 are flowcharts for explaining the reproducing process (reproducing method) performed in the reproducing apparatus of the sixth embodiment according to the present invention.

EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION Hereinafter, with reference to drawings, one Embodiment of the data transmission method, the recording limiting method, or the copying limiting method, the reproduction limiting method, the recording apparatus, the playback apparatus, and the recording medium which concern on this invention is demonstrated. In the embodiments to be described below, the data transmission method according to the present invention is used to transfer content data via a recording medium such as an optical disc or a magneto-optical disc, and to transfer the content data via a communication network such as the Internet. An example applied to the case will be described.

The recording limiting method and the recording device according to the present invention are applied to a recording device for recording content data on a recording medium such as an optical disk, and the playback limiting method and the playback device according to the present invention are applied to an optical disk and a magneto-optical disk. An example will be described using a case where a recording medium according to the present invention is applied to a disc recording medium such as an optical disc.

The content data is audio data, video data such as still pictures or moving pictures, or digital data which is a main object of transmission such as text data or computer programs. In addition, in embodiment described below, content data is audio data, for example.

[First Embodiment]                 

 [Data transmission method and recording medium of the first embodiment]

1 is a diagram for explaining a data transmission method and a first embodiment of a recording medium according to the present invention. In this first embodiment, application period data, which is data representing the application period of the copy restriction type (replica limit type), is transmitted in the content data.

The copy restriction type is to present a copy prohibition, a copy number limit, a copy restriction method to be followed, and a copy freedom (no copy limit). Here, the copy number limit is for limiting the number of copies (number of copies) of the content data to be recorded in a specific recording apparatus. Therefore, by limiting the number of copies, using a specific recording device allows only a predetermined number of copies of the content data to be recorded to be created.

The copy restriction method to be followed is directed to using an existing copy restriction method such as, for example, a serial copy management system (SCMS) or a copy generation management system (CGMS).

In the first embodiment, the content data is provided in a file format, and as shown in FIG. 1, the copy prohibition period designation area NC and the copy are provided in the header portion HD of the content data provided in the file format. The end date area ED2 of the application period of the restricted type A and the final copy restriction type area ET are provided. In Fig. 1, the content data which consists of the copy prohibition period designation area | region NC, the 32-bit start date area | region ST1, and the 32-bit end date area | region ED1, and continues to the header part HD The start date and the end date of the period for which duplication of the copy is prohibited are input.

In the first embodiment, the copy restriction type A indicates that the copyable number is one. In the end date area ED2 of the application period of the 32-bit copy restriction type A, the end date of the application period of the copy restriction type A, that is, the period in which the copy of the content data following the header part HD is limited to one is limited. Is entered.

In the start date area ST1 of the copy prohibition period designation area, the end date area ED1, and the end date area ED2 of the copy restriction type A, the respective dates are input to a BCD (Binary Coded Decimal) code.

In this first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 1, in the start date area ST1 of the copy prohibition period designation area NC, for example, August 1, 2000 is the copy prohibition period designation area. In the end date area ED1 of (NC), for example, July 31, 2001 AD represents the end date area ED2 of the copy restriction type A, for example, July 31, 2002 AD. An example of the case where the BCD codes are respectively input is shown.

Note that, for the copy restriction type A, only the area ED2 of the end date is provided, the start date of the period during which the copy restriction (record limit) is performed by the copy restriction type A is the end date of the copy prohibition period. Because it is the next day. That is, the start date of the period during which the copying restriction is performed by the copying restriction type A is based on the end date between the copying prohibitions. In this first embodiment, for example, the clerk which is the end date between the copying prohibitions shown in Fig. 1. It will be August 1, 2001, the day following July 31, 2001.

In this embodiment, the final copy limit type area ET is provided for 4 bits, and the copy limit type after the end of the application period of copy limit type A is input. That is, the final copy restriction type indicates the copy restriction type outside the copy prohibition period and outside the application period of the copy limit type A.

In this first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 1, as the final copy restriction type, " No copy 1111 ", " 1 copy limit 1110 ", " 5 copy limit 1110 " It is possible to use five types of copying restrictions, "1100" and "free copying (0000)" according to the copying limit control in the SCMS method. Here, the number in parentheses is a BCD code indicating the copy restriction type.

As described above, in this first embodiment, the 64-bit region at the predetermined position of the header unit HD is the copy prohibition period designation area NC, and the next 32-bit region is the copy limit type A. The end date area ED2 of the application period and the area for the next 4 bits are determined in advance like the area indicating the final copy limit type ET.

In other words, the application period of the predetermined copy restriction type is input at a predetermined position in the header portion NC, and the final copy restriction type is input at a predetermined position in the header portion NC. As shown in Fig. 1, the final copy restriction type area ET or less is a content data area.

In addition, in FIG. 1, for the sake of simplicity, with respect to the header portion HD of the content data, the copy prohibition period designation area NC, the end date area ED2 of the application period of the copy restriction type A, and the final copy Three area portions of the restricted type region ET are shown. However, various other data are added to the header part HD. For example, unique identification information and other various kinds of information are added to the content data for identifying the content data such as the International Standard Recording Code (ISRC).

However, as described above, the header portion HD of each area, such as the copy prohibition period designation area NC, the end date area ED2 of the application period of the copy limit type A, the last copy limit type area ET, and the like. The position inside is determined in advance, and the copy limit type indicating what copy limit control should be performed in each application period is also predetermined.

In the recording device described later, by detecting these information, if the current date, which is the recording execution date, falls within the copy prohibition period, the copy restriction is performed according to the copy limit type A, and is later than the application period of the copy limit type A. In the following, duplication limit control according to the final duplication limit type can be performed.

In addition, in this first embodiment, for example, when a copy prohibition period (applicable period for copy prohibition) and an application period for copy restriction type A are not used, i.e., a copy limit is not added to content data. In the copy prohibition period area NC and the end date area ED of the application period of the copy limit type A, a predetermined value such as "99999999" is input, and it is displayed that no restriction is added. .

There may be cases where only the copy prohibition period is set or only the application period of the copy limit type A is set. For example, when only the copy prohibition period is to be set, only the copy prohibition period designation area NC is used, and a predetermined value such as "99999999" is used in the end date area ED2 of the application period of the copy limit type A. Enter.

When only the application period of the copy restriction type A is set, the start date area (ST1) and the end date area of the copy protection period designation area (NC) are used only by the end date area (ED2) of the application period of the copy restriction type A. In ED1, a predetermined value such as "99999999" may be input. In this case, since it is not the start date area of the application period of the copy restriction type A, the application period of the copy restriction type A becomes the end of the application period of the application period of the copy restriction type A.

Further, the start date area of the application period of the copy protection type A may be set or the start end date of the copy prohibition period designation area may not be provided.

 [Data transmission method of the first embodiment, and apparatus for realizing a recording medium]

Next, as shown in Fig. 1, a header portion HD having a recording prohibition period designation area NC, an end date area ED2 of the application period of the copy restriction type A, and a final copy restriction type area ET. Next, a recording apparatus for creating a recording medium on which content data is added is added. In this first embodiment, a case where an optical disc such as a CD (Compact Disc) is used as a recording medium will be described as an example. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the recording apparatus 100 of the first embodiment.

The recording device 100 realizes an embodiment of the data transfer method according to the present invention and simultaneously creates an optical disc as a recording medium of the present invention. In the manufacture of this optical disc, the mother disc is created by first developing the exposed disc master 2 by the recording apparatus 100, followed by electroforming. An optical disk is manufactured by forming a stamper on the mother disk, injection molding a disk substrate using a mold apparatus equipped with the stamper, and depositing a reflective film on the injection molded disk substrate.

The disc master 150 exposed by the recording apparatus 100 is composed of, for example, a flat glass substrate and a photoresist (photoresist) applied to the glass substrate. The disc disk 150 is located on a cradle (not shown) that is rotationally driven by the spindle motor 112. The spindle motor 112 drives the disk disc 150 under the control of the spindle servo circuit 113.

The spindle motor 112 is equipped with a frequency signal generator for generating a frequency signal FG of a frequency in accordance with its rotational speed. The spindle servo circuit 113 drives the spindle motor 112 so that the frequency signal FG becomes a predetermined frequency, thereby rotating and driving the disk disc 150 at a linear speed constant CLV.

The recording laser 108 is constituted by a gas laser or the like and emits a laser beam of a predetermined light amount. The optical modulator 109 is constituted by an electroacoustic optical element or the like, and turns on / off the laser beam incident from the recording laser 108 in accordance with the drive signal S1 supplied from the drive circuit 107 described later. . The laser beam L from the light modulator 109 enters the mirror 110.

The mirror 110 bends the optical path of the laser beam L by 90 degrees, for example, and injects the laser beam L into the disc master 2. The objective lens 111 condenses the reflected light from the mirror 110 on the recording surface of the disk master 150, that is, the photosensitive agent layer applied.

The mirror 110 and the objective lens 111 are sequentially moved in the radial direction of the disk master 150 in synchronization with the rotation of the disk master 150 by a slit mechanism (not shown). As a result, the recording apparatus 100 sequentially displaces the condensing position of the laser beam L from the inner circumferential side of the disk disc 150 to the outer circumferential direction, and tracks are spirally or concentrically arranged on the disk disc 2. Is formed. On this track, a pit column corresponding to the modulation signal S1 from the drive circuit 107 is formed.

By the optical disc recording apparatus having the above recording mechanism, audio data as the content data to which the header portion HD is added is recorded, or TOC (Table of Contents) data is recorded on the inner circumferential side of the optical disc.

[Recording Data in the Recording Device 100]

The audio signal SA, which is the content supplied from the predetermined music source via the input terminal 101, is supplied to the analog digital modulation circuit (A / D modulation circuit) 102. The A / D modulation circuit 102 converts the audio signal SA into a digital signal to form content data (digital audio data) DA and outputs it to the synthesis circuit 103.

On the other hand, although not shown, the duplication control information generation circuit 104 generates duplication control information FS according to the generation control signal CTF of the duplication control information in response to an instruction input from an operator of the recording apparatus 100. Create The instruction input from the operator indicates the start date and end date of the application period of the copy prohibition (copy prohibition period), the end date of the application period of the copy restriction type A, the final copy limit type, and the like.

In accordance with the generation control signal CTF of the duplication control information according to the instruction input, the duplication control information generation circuit 104 inputs the duplication inhibiting period designation area NC of the header part HD shown in FIG. In the start date data and the end date data of the copy prohibition period, the end date data of the application period of the copy restriction type A input in the end date area (ED2) of the application period of the copy restriction type A, and the last copy restriction type area (ET). The copy restriction information FS which consists of data which shows the last copy restriction type to input is formed, and this is supplied to the synthesis circuit 103. FIG.

The synthesizing circuit 103 adds a header portion to the content data DA from the A / D conversion circuit 102, and copies the copy restriction information from the copy limitation information generation circuit 104 in the corresponding area of the header portion. Input, the content data and the duplication control information are synthesized, and the contents data to which the duplication control information is accompanied are formed, and this is supplied to the Error Correction Code (ECC) encoder 105.

The ECC encoder 105 also receives data of TOC (Table of Contents) recorded in the lead-in area similarly to the conventional CD. The ECC encoder 105 generates an error correcting code for the input data by, for example, a Cross Interleav Reed-Solomon Code (CIRC).

According to an instruction from a system control not shown, the ECC encoder 150 ECC-encodes the TOC data and writes the TOC data to the recording modulation circuit 106 at the time of recording to the lead-in area of the disc master 150. In addition, at the time of recording to the data area of the disc master 150, the content data DA to which the header part is added is subjected to ECC encoding processing and output to the recording modulation circuit 106.

The TOC data includes, for example, identification data indicating that it is an original compact disc created by a stamper, information about recorded music information, data at the recording position thereof, or the like.

In the recording modulation circuit 106, the data from the ECC encoder 105 is modulated by a predetermined modulation method to form the recording data D1, which is supplied to the driving circuit 107. The driving circuit 107 receives the recording data D1 and generates a driving signal S1 for turning on / off the laser beam corresponding to the logic level of the recording data D1.

In this embodiment, the laser beam L from the recording laser 108 is turned on and off by the drive signal S1 corresponding to the recording data D1 as in the case of a normal compact disc. Thus, for example, a bit string having a bit width of 5 m is formed.

In this manner, the header portion HD has a file format, as shown in Fig. 1, data indicating the start date between the copy prohibitions, data indicating the end date between the copy prohibitions, and application period of the copy restriction type A. It is possible to create an optical disc on which data data indicating the end date of the data and content data appended with data indicating the last copy restriction type is added, and distribute (provide) the content data via the optical disc.

As described above, the content data recorded on the optical disc can be transmitted and provided to a general user (end user) in a file format, for example, via a communication network such as the Internet as shown in FIG. .

3 is a diagram for explaining an environment in the case of distributing content data via the Internet. As shown in Fig. 3, the Internet 250 is connected to a web server apparatus 200 for providing content data such as so-called web pages, audio data, video data, and the like, and is provided in a home or company. A user terminal device 300, such as a personal computer, is connected.                 

In addition, there are various types of user terminal devices, such as personal information devices such as PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) having a communication function, mobile phone terminals, and notebook type personal computers connected to the mobile phone terminals. .

The web server device 200 includes a content data storage unit 201 composed of a hard disk drive or the like, and a transmission facility 202 for transmitting content data to the Internet. The transmission facility 202 has a reception function for receiving a request for providing content data from the user terminal device 300 or the like, or content for reading content data according to the received request from the content data accumulator 201. It is equipped with a data acquisition function.

As shown in Fig. 1, the transmission equipment 202 includes a header having a copy prohibition period designation area NC, an end date area ED2 of the application period of the copy limit type A, a last copy limit type area ET, and the like. The content data of the added file format is transmitted as it is.

However, in the case of content data without a header portion added, as shown in Fig. 1, the copy prohibition period designation area NC, the end date area ED2 of the application period of the copy restriction type A, and the last copy restriction type area, as shown in FIG. The header portion having (ET) can be added and transmitted.

That is, the transmission facility 202 is a copying limit information generating circuit (creation limiting information generating function) that generates copying limit information in accordance with an instruction input from an operator, similarly to the recording apparatus 100 described with reference to FIG. 2. And a synthesis circuit (additional function of copying restriction information) for adding copying restriction information to the header of the content data.

 The web server device 200 appends the start date, end date, and end date of the copy limit type A between the copy prohibition periods in the application period of the copy restriction type to the content data in the content data. At the same time, the final copy restriction type can also be sent along with it.

By providing the same function as the Web server apparatus 200 in the broadcasting apparatus on the broadcasting station side of the digital satellite broadcasting, for example, copy restriction information is added to the content data and transmitted via digital satellite broadcasting, and the end user ( It is also possible to provide to the user) side.

In this way, the content data accompanied by the copy restriction information, such as the start date, end date, end date of the application period of the copy restriction type A, and the last copy restriction type, is recorded in the header of the content data. Through a medium, or through a communication network such as the Internet or a local area network (LAN), or through a broadcast media such as digital satellite broadcasting, or through various wireless digital interfaces, etc., it is provided to the user. can do.

 [Recorder for Copy Restriction Control]

Next, as shown in Fig. 1, the content restriction data such as the start date and end date of the copy prohibition period, the end date of the application period of the copy limit type A, the last copy limit type, and the like are appended (added). A recording apparatus which receives a supply and records this on a recording medium will be described. Here, the case where an optical disk capable of recording data, such as a CD-R (CD Recordable) disk or a CD-RW (CD Rewritable) disk, is used as a recording medium as an example.                 

4 is a block diagram for explaining the recording apparatus 400 of the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the content data in which the start date and end date of the copy prohibition period, the end date of the application period of the copy limit type A, and the last copy limit type are added to the header unit HD is input terminal 401. It is input to the recording device 400 through the data and supplied to the copy restriction information separating circuit 402.

Here, the content data supplied to the recording device 400 is a reproducing apparatus for reproducing the content data from the optical disc on which the content data is recorded, or a personal computer connected to a communication network such as the Internet to receive content data through the communication network. It is supplied from a user terminal device such as a receiver or a digital satellite broadcast receiver for providing content data.

The copy restriction information separating circuit 402 indicates data representing the copy prohibition period, data indicating the application period of the copy limit type A, and the final copy limit type at a predetermined position of the header portion HD of the supplied content data. It separates and extracts necessary data such as data and identification information of the content data, and supplies the extracted data to the system controller (hereinafter, simply referred to as a controller) 420 and simultaneously supplies the content data to the storage control circuit 430. do.

Thereby, the control unit 420 supplies the start date and end date of the copy prohibition period for the supplied content data, the end date of the application period of the copy restriction type A, the last copy restriction type, the identification information of the content data, and the like. As a result, it is possible to manage in the controller 420.                 

Therefore, in this first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 1, the copy prohibition period (application period of the prohibition of copying) is, for example, from August 1, 2000 to July 31, 2001, The application period of the copy restriction type A is, for example, from August 1, 2001 to July 31, 2002, and the final copy restriction type is, for example, "free copy (0000)". It is grasped by the control part 420.

The control part 420 controls each part of the recording apparatus 400 in this embodiment, and although not shown in figure, it is a microcomputer provided with CPU, ROM, RAM, etc. FIG. The clock circuit 421 is connected to the control unit 420. When the control unit 420 receives the recording instruction from the user via the key operation unit 424, the control unit 420 refers to the current date (current date) of the clock circuit 421 and detects the current date which is the recording execution date.

In addition, in the recording device 400 of this embodiment, the clock circuit 421 has a so-called calendar function that can provide a current time and provide a current year, month, present day, and the like. The clock circuit 421 cannot set or change the date or time due to the real demand of the user of the recording device 400, and automatically sets the date and time automatically by receiving a radio wave notifying the time. It is so-called radio clock which can do it.

Then, the controller 420 determines whether the current day is in the copy prohibition application period or in the application period of the copy restriction type A. The control unit 420 supplies a control signal to the recording control circuit 403 when the current date from the clock circuit 421 is in the copy prohibition period, and synthesizes the content data from the copy restriction information separating circuit 402. No supply to circuit 404.

When the current date from the clock circuit 421 is in the application period of the copy restriction type A, the control unit 420 uses the identification information of the content data to be copied to the recording medium using the recording device 400. The data of the copy count memory 422 is referred to, and it is judged whether or not the content has already been copied using the recording device 400, and if it has already been copied, the recording control circuit 403 The control signal is supplied, and the content data from the copy restriction information separating circuit 402 is not supplied to the synthesizing circuit 404 so that copying is prohibited.

In the recording device 400, if not yet copied, the control unit 420 supplies a control signal to the recording control circuit 403, and synthesizes the content data from the copy restriction information separating circuit 402. Supply to circuit 404.

That is, as described above, in this embodiment, the copy limit type A indicates "one copy limit", and in one recording apparatus, only one copy of the content data is allowed to be created. . Since the number of copies is limited as described above, the recording apparatus 400 of this embodiment connects the number of copies of the content data that has been copied to the recording medium in its own manner to the control unit 420. This is managed by the copy count memory 422. The copy count memory 422 cannot add, change, or delete data arbitrarily by the user of the recording device 400.

As described above, the identification information of the content data is added to the header part of the content data, and the identification information of the content data is also supplied from the copying restriction information separating circuit 402 to the controller 420, so that the recording apparatus is provided. When content data is recorded using 400, the recording contents of the copy count memory 422 are updated based on the identification information of the content data.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the contents of recording in the copy count memory 422 of the recording device 400. As shown in FIG. In the case where the content device, which has not been copied yet, is copied by the recording device 400, as shown by the information of the content data a in FIG. 5, the identification information (content data of the copied content data) is shown. It is additionally recorded by matching a) with the number of copies (once).

In addition, when the content device (b) or content data (c) which has already been copied is copied by the recording device 400, the number of copies corresponding to the identification information of the content data is increased. In the case of the example shown in FIG. 5, the recording device 400 has not yet replicated the content data a only once, but has already performed the content data c three times for the content data b. ) Is duplicated twice.

If the current day falls within the application period of the copy restriction type A, as described above, based on the identification information of the content data to be copied, the record data of the copy count memory 422 is referred to, and the content data is identified. When the information has not been stored yet (invalid), the copy of the content data has not been performed in the recording device 400, and thus the copy of the content data is permitted.

In the case where the identification information of the content data to be copied exists in the copy count memory 422, the copy of the content data is already performed in the recording device 400, and more than two copies are not allowed. Copying of the contents data is prohibited.

The control unit 420 of the recording device 400 performs final copy when the current date (recording execution date) detected by the clock circuit 421 is not within the copy prohibition period and also within the application period of the copy limit type A. Replication restriction control according to the restriction type is performed. In this first embodiment, since the final replication restriction type is, for example, "copy freedom (0000)", after the application period of the replication restriction type A has elapsed, The content data can be copied freely.

Therefore, in the recording apparatus 400 of the first embodiment, when the content data is copied, the current date, which is the recording execution date of the content data, is within the period indicated by the data indicating the copy prohibition period accompanying the content data. If it belongs, content data is not output from the recording control circuit 403, and duplication of the content data is prohibited.

If the current date falls within the application period of the copy restriction type A accompanying the content data, and the copy of the content data has already been performed by using the recording device 400, the recording control circuit 403 starts. The content data is not output, and duplication of the content data is prohibited.

In other cases, the recording control circuit 403 supplies the synthesis circuit 404 with content data separated from the header portion from the copy restriction information separating circuit 402. The duplication limit information from the duplication limit information generation circuit 405 is supplied to the synthesis circuit 404. Based on the information from the control section 420, the copy restriction information generation circuit 405 generates copy restriction information to accompany the content data to be copied, and supplies it to the synthesis circuit 404.

In this first embodiment, the control unit 420, as described later, in order to make it impossible to copy the content data recorded on the optical disc 450 to which the content data is copied, the data indicating the copy prohibition period and the copy restriction. The data indicating the application period of the type A is set to zero, and an instruction to generate the data 1111 indicating the prohibition of copying as data indicating the last copy restriction type is supplied to the copy restriction information generating circuit 405.

The copy restriction information generation circuit 405 sets data indicating the copy prohibition period and data indicating the application period of the copy limit type A as all zeros, and is data indicating the copy prohibition as data representing the last copy limit type (1111). Is formed and supplied to the synthesis circuit 404.

The synthesizing circuit 404 inputs (sets) the copy restriction information from the copy restriction information generation unit 405 into a predetermined position in the header part, and copies the copy restriction information from the copy restriction information generation unit 405 into the header part. Synthesize In the synthesizing circuit 404, the content data that can replace the copy restriction information of the header portion is supplied to the ECC encoder 406.

The ECC encoder 406 generates and adds an error correction code to the content data to be recorded, similarly to the ECC encoder 105 of the recording apparatus 100 shown in FIG. The content data to which the error correction code is added is supplied to the recording modulation circuit 407, modulated by a predetermined modulation method, and the modulated content data is supplied to the optical pickup section 409 via the recording circuit 408.

The optical pickup section 409 includes an optical system such as a laser light source such as a semiconductor laser, a beam splitter, an objective lens, an actuator for driving the objective lens in the focusing direction and the tracking direction, and the like. Receiving a recording signal) and irradiating the optical disk 450 with laser light according to the content data.

At this time, the optical disk is rotated by the spindle motor 410. That is, the spindle motor 410 is controlled so that the rotation of the optical disc 450 is made constant by the spindle servo circuit 411 in the same manner as the spindle motor 112 of the recording apparatus 100 described above. In the control of the start of rotation and the stop of rotation of the spindle motor 410, for example, the spindle servo circuit 411 controls the spindle motor based on a control signal from the controller 420.

As a result, when the optical disc 450 is a disc such as a CD-R, laser light is irradiated to a recording layer made of organic dye on the optical disc, and content data is recorded (replicated) on the optical disc 450. In the case of a disc whose optical disc 450 is a CD-RW or the like, content data is recorded (duplicated) on the optical disc 450 by a phase change recording method.

 [Recording Process in the Recording Apparatus of the First Embodiment]

Next, the recording process performed in the above-described recording apparatus 400 will be described with reference to FIG. 6 and 7 are flowcharts for explaining recording processing performed in the recording apparatus 400. When a recording execution instruction from the user is input through the key operation unit 424 of the recording apparatus 400, and content data is supplied to the recording apparatus 400 through the input terminal 401, the control unit of the recording apparatus 400 is controlled. 420 executes the processes shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

The control unit 420, as described above, copying limit information from the copying limit information separating circuit 402, that is, data indicating the copy prohibition period, data indicating the application period of the copy limit type A, final copy limit type, Reference information of the contents data, such as the identification information of the contents data, is referred (step S101). Next, the control unit 420 refers to the current day of the clock circuit 421 (step S102).

The control unit 420 determines whether or not the current date falls within the copy prohibition period, from the data indicating the copy prohibition period referred to in step S101 and the current date referred to in step S102 (step S103). That is, the process of step S103 is a period from the date indicated by the start date data of the start date area of the copy prohibition period designated area shown in Fig. 1 to the date indicated by the end date data of the copy prohibition period designated area shown in Fig. 1. It is the process of determining whether or not it belongs to.

In the determination processing of step S103, when it is determined that the current day is within the copy prohibition period, the control unit 420 controls the recording control circuit 403, and supplies the content data to the synthesis circuit 404. At the same time, the user is notified that the content data cannot be copied by a warning sound, a warning display, or the like (step S104).

The notification processing performed in this step (S104) is, for example, in the display unit 423 composed of an LCD or the like. Can't be duplicated ”or sound buzzer by controlling a buzzer (not shown). After the notification process of non-replicating in step S104, the process shown in this FIG. 6, FIG. 7 is complete | finished.

In the judgment processing of step S103, when it is determined that the current day does not belong to the copy prohibition period, the control unit 420 returns to the copy restriction information and step S102 referred to in step S101. From the current date referred to, it is determined whether or not the current date falls within the application period of the copy restriction type A (in this embodiment, whether or not it is within the limited period of one copy number) (step S105).

That is, the process of step S105 is performed from the day after the end date data of the end date area of the copy prohibition period designation area shown in Fig. 1 to the end date area of the application period of the copy restriction type A shown in Fig. 1. It is a process of determining whether or not it belongs to a period up to the date indicated by the end date data.

In the judging process of step S105, when it is determined that the current day is in the limited period of one copy number, the control section 420, based on the identification information of the content data referred to in step S101, the copy number memory ( 422) (step S106). Then, the control unit 420 determines whether or not the number of duplications of the content data to be duplicated is over (step S107).

In this embodiment, since the number of copies is limited to only one copy, in step S107, the content data to be copied is stored in the count memory 422 in the recording device 400. FIG. Based on the data, it is determined whether or not it has already been copied.

In the determination processing at step S107, when it is determined that the copy number is over, the process proceeds to step S104, and the control unit 420 controls the recording control circuit 403 as described above. Then, the content data is not supplied to the synthesizing circuit 404 and notified of the non-copying (step S104), and the processing shown in Figs. 6 and 7 is ended.

In the determination processing at step S107, when it is determined that the copy count is not over, the control unit 420 permits the copy of the content data, controls the recording control circuit 403, and synthesizes the content data. Supply to the circuit 404 (step S108). Then, the control unit 420 provides the copy restriction information generation circuit 405 with information on the copy restriction information generated, and generates copy restriction information added to the header portion of the content data to be copied, and synthesizes it. Supply is made to the circuit 404 (step S109).

The control unit 420 controls the synthesizing circuit 404 to synthesize the content data to be copied and the copy restriction information, and appends the copy restriction information to the content data (step S110). After that, the control unit 420 controls each unit and executes a process of recording the content data intended to accompany the copy restriction information onto the optical disc 450 (step S111).

When copying of the content data is completed, the control unit 420 associates the number limit memory 422 with the identification information of the content data copied this time and information indicating that the number of copies is one, and the copy number memory 422. Is recorded additionally (step S112), and the processing shown in Figs. 6 and 7 ends.                 

In the determination processing of step S105, when it is determined that the current day is not in the limited period of one copy number, the control unit 420 proceeds to the processing of step S113 shown in FIG. 7 and proceeds to step S101. Based on the last copy restriction type referred to, it is judged whether or not the copy of the content data is free (step S113).

In the judgment processing of step S113, when it is determined that the copy is free, the control unit 420 permits the copy of the content data, controls the recording control circuit 403, and sends the content data to the synthesizing circuit 404. It supplies (step S114). The control unit 420 provides the information on the copy restriction information generated to the copy limit information generation circuit 405, generates copy limit information added to the header portion of the content data to be copied, and synthesizes this into the synthesis circuit 404. ) (Step S115).

The control unit 420 controls the synthesizing circuit 404, synthesizes the content data to be copied and the copy restriction information, and attaches the copy restriction information to the content data (step S116). Thereafter, the control unit 420 controls each unit to execute a process of recording the content data accompanying the copy restriction information on the optical disc 450 (step S117). The processing shown in FIG.

In the judgment processing of step S113, when it is determined that the content data is not free copying, the control unit 420 further determines the content of the final copying restriction type, specifies the content of the last copying restriction type, and Copying control is performed in accordance with the specific last copying restriction type (step S118). When copying is not possible or when copying is completed, the processing shown in Figs. 6 and 7 ends.                 

Therefore, when the last copy restriction type is prohibited to copy, copying is prohibited, and when the last copy limit type is a copy limit, copying of content data is possible only when it is not set as content data.

When the final copy restriction type is instructed to comply with another copy restriction method such as SCMS, copy limit control according to the indicated copy limit method is performed. Therefore, information for corresponding to the indicated copy restriction method is also added to the content data, and this information is separated and extracted by, for example, the copy restriction information separating circuit 402. Of course, a dedicated circuit may be provided for extracting information corresponding to the indicated copy restriction method from the content data.

In the recording apparatus 400 of the first embodiment, the copy restriction information separating circuit 402 extracts only necessary information such as copy restriction information, identification information of content data, and the like. ) And the synthesis circuit 404 are described as changing only necessary information such as copy restriction information, but the present invention is not limited to this.

For example, the header portion and the content data portion of the content data transmitted in the file format are separated in the copy restriction information separating circuit 402, and the entire copy of the header portion is copied from the copy restriction information generating circuit 405 and the synthesis circuit. It is of course possible to grind by 404.

 Second Embodiment

 [Data transmission method and recording medium of the second embodiment]                 

By the way, in the above-described first embodiment, as described with reference to Fig. 1, the application period data, which is data indicating the application period of the copy restriction type (replication limit type), indicates the copy prohibition period and the copy restriction type. It is decided in advance as saying that it represents the application period of A.

However, the content data would like to prohibit duplication in a predetermined period, but in the subsequent predetermined period, up to 5 duplications would be allowed if the same recording device was used (5 copies). have. In the case of other content data, up to one predetermined period may be allowed to be duplicated if the same recording apparatus is used (one duplicated limit), but there may be cases where it is desired to prohibit duplication in a subsequent period.

In this way, for example, the content data causes the user to freely change the copy restriction type and its application period. However, on the recording apparatus side, even if it is possible to extract the application period data of the copy restriction type from the header portion of the content data, if it is not possible to determine which copy restriction type the application period data is for, Duplication limit control cannot be performed properly.

In this second embodiment, for each of the application period data of the replication restriction type, data indicating the replication restriction type in the period indicated by the application period data is accompanied, and the application period data and application of this replication restriction type are appended. Provided as a medium or through a communication network or the like as a medium for recording content data accompanied with data indicating a copy restriction type in a period indicated by the period data.

In this manner, in the recording apparatus, when the current day, which is the recording execution date, belongs to the period indicated by the application period data intended to accompany the content data, the data indicating the copy restriction type accompanying the application period data is referred to. It is possible to perform the replication restriction in accordance with the replication restriction type specified by the data representing the replication restriction type. That is, the application period or the copy restriction type can be different for each content data.

Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining a second embodiment of a data transmission method and a recording medium according to the present invention. In this second embodiment, as shown in Fig. 8, a first copy of four bits is recorded in the header portion HD of the content data in a file format recorded on a recording medium or provided through a communication network or the like. Restriction type area CP1, end date area ED1 of the application period of the first replication restriction type for 32 bits (first application period) ED1, second replication restriction type area CP2 for 4 bits, for 32 bits The end date area ED2 of the application period (second application period) of the second replication restriction type of the third copy restriction type area CP3 for 4 bits is provided.

In the first replication limit type area CP1, data indicating the replication restriction type in the first application period is input (set). Also in this second embodiment, the copying restriction type can use the copying restriction type as in the case of the first embodiment.

That is, in this second embodiment, the usable copy restriction types are, as shown in Fig. 8, "No copy 1111", "One copy limit 1110", and "5 copy limit" ( 1101) "," SC1 system replication limit control (1100) ", and" copy freedom (0000) ".

Any of the above five types of copy restriction types selected by the provider of the content data is entered in the first copy restriction type area CP1. In the example shown in Fig. 8, the BCD code 1111, that is, data indicating prohibition of copying, is input to the first copying limit type area CP1 as data indicating the copying restriction type.

In the end date area ED1 of the first application period, end date data indicating the end date of the first application period is input as a BCD code. In this second embodiment, since only the end date data, the first replication limit period is a period before the date indicated by the end date data of the first application period. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 8, it is said that the 1st application period which is an application period of a 1st replication restriction type is before July 31, 2001, for example.

In the second replication limit type area CP2, data indicating the replication restriction type in the second application period is input. Also in this case, similarly to the case of the first copy restriction type area CP1, among the above five copy restriction types, any copy restriction type selected by the provider of the content data is the second copy restriction type area ( CP2). In the example shown in Fig. 8, the BCD code 1110, that is, data indicating one copy limit, is input to the second copy limit type area CP2 as the data indicating the copy limit type.

In the end date area ED2 of the second application period, end date data indicating the end date of the second application period is input as a BCD code. In this second embodiment, the second application period is a period from the day following the date indicated by the end date data of the first application period to the date indicated by the end date data of the second application period. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 8, the second application period, which is the application period of the second replication restriction type, is, for example, a period from August 1, 2001 to July 31, 2002.

In the third replication limit type area CP3, data indicating the replication restriction type after the second application period elapses is input. Also in this case, similar to the case of the first and second copy restriction type areas, among the above five copy restriction types, any copy restriction type selected by the provider of the content data is the third copy restriction type area. Work on.

In Fig. 8, the third copy restriction type area CP3 is inputted with a BCD code (0000), that is, data indicating copy freedom as data indicating a copy restriction type. In this second embodiment, the copy restriction type represented by the data of the third copy restriction type region is the final copy restriction type, and after the second copy restriction period has elapsed, the data of the third copy restriction type region is determined. Replication restriction control in accordance with the replication restriction type displayed is performed. As shown in FIG. 8, after the 3rd copy restriction type area | region CP3, it is a content data area.

Also in this second embodiment, similar to the case of the first embodiment, various other data of copy restriction information are added to the header unit HD. For example, unique identification information and other various kinds of information are added to the content data for identifying the content data such as the International Standard Recording Code (ISRC).

As described above, an optical disc which is a recording medium on which data representing the first and second replication restriction types, end date data of the first and second replication restriction periods and content data accompanying data representing the third replication restriction type is recorded. Even in the case of manufacture, mass production can be performed by a stamper created from the mother disk created by the recording apparatus described with reference to FIG. 2 and provided to the end user.

As shown in Fig. 3, it can also be provided by transmitting via a communication network such as the Internet. That is, in the first embodiment and the second embodiment, although the data accompanying the content data is different, there is no big difference in the process of providing the content data.

As shown in Fig. 8, the recording apparatus for copying the content data, which is to be accompanied by the data indicating the copy restriction type in each application period, can use exactly the same as the recording apparatus 400 shown in Fig. 4. However, as copy restriction information for extracting from the content data in the recording apparatus, data indicating the copy restriction type is added. The duplication limit control by the control unit of the recording apparatus can be performed in accordance with the duplication limit type for each application period.

Therefore, in the following, also in this second embodiment, the recording apparatus for copying the content data uses the recording apparatus 400 shown in FIG. 4, and as shown in FIG. 8, the application period data in the header portion. The following describes the recording process in the case of duplicating content data to which data indicating the duplication restriction type has been added.

 [Recording Process in the Recording Apparatus of the Second Embodiment]

9 is a flowchart for explaining the recording process performed in the recording apparatus 400 of the second embodiment. When a recording execution instruction from the user is input through the key operation unit 422 of the recording apparatus 400, and the content data is supplied to the recording apparatus 400 through the input terminal 401, the control unit (of the recording apparatus 400) ( 420 executes the process shown in FIG. 9.

In this second embodiment, the copy restriction information separating circuit 402 of the recording device 400 is copy restriction information, and the data and the first application period of the first copy limit type region CP1 shown in FIG. Data of the end date area ED1 of the data, the data of the second replication limit type area CP2, the data of the end date area ED2 of the second application period, the data of the third replication restriction type area CP3, and the content data. Identification information is extracted and supplied to the controller 420.

The control unit 420 refers to the copy restriction information from the copy restriction information separating circuit 402 and the identification information of the content data as described above (step S201). Next, the control unit 420 refers to the current day of the clock circuit 421 (step S202).

The control unit 420 determines whether or not the current date falls within the first application period, which is the application period for the first replication restriction type, from the duplication restriction information referred to in step S201 and the current date referred to in step S202. It judges (step S203). In the judging process of step S203, when it is determined that the current day falls within the first application period, the control unit 420 stores data indicating the first replication restriction type (from the first replication restriction type area CP1). Data) (step S204).

The first copy restriction type is specified, and copy restriction is performed according to the specific first copy restriction type (step S205). In this second embodiment, since the first copying restriction type is " copying prohibited 1111 ", in step S205, the control unit 420 controls the recording control circuit 403 to store the content data. The processing is performed so that the user is not notified to the synthesis circuit 404, but notified to the user via the display unit 423, for example, that duplication is impossible. After the process of this step S208, the process shown in this FIG. 9 is complete | finished.

In the determination processing of step S203, when it is determined that the current day does not fall within the first application period, the control unit 420 makes the same as in the case of step S203, and the duplication limit referred to in step S201. From the information and the current date referenced in step S202, it is determined whether or not the current date falls within the second application period which is the application period for the second replication restriction type (step S206).

In the determination processing of step S206, when it is determined that the current day is within the second application period, the control unit 420 determines from the data (second replication restriction type area CP2) indicating the second replication restriction type. Data) (step S207).

The second copy restriction type is specified, and copy limit control is performed in accordance with the specific second copy restriction type (step S208). In the second embodiment, since the second replication limit type is "one copy limit 1110", in step S208, the control section 420 is supplied from the copy restriction information separation circuit 402. The identification information of the content data is referred to, and the copy count memory 422 is referred to based on the identification information of the content data.

It is determined whether the number of copies of the corresponding content data is not exceeded, and if not, the recording control circuit 403 is controlled, and the content data is output to the synthesizing circuit 404 so that the content data can be copied. do. When the number of copies of the content data has been exceeded, the recording control circuit 403 is controlled so that the content data is not supplied to the synthesizing circuit 404. 423), a process of notifying the user is performed. After the process of this step S208, the process shown in this FIG. 9 is complete | finished.

In the determination processing of step S206, when it is determined that the current day is a date after the second application period has elapsed, the control unit 420 displays data indicating the third replication restriction type (third replication restriction type area CP3). Data from the reference) (step S209).

A third copy restriction type is specified, and copy limit control is performed in accordance with the specific third copy restriction type (step S210). In this second embodiment, since the third copying restriction type is "free copying (0000)", in step S210, the control section 420 controls the recording control circuit 403 to display the content data. The data is output to the synthesizing circuit 404 so that the content data can be copied. After the process of this step S210, the process shown in this FIG. 9 is complete | finished.

As described above, in the recording apparatus of the second embodiment, when the current day, which is the recording execution date, is within the first application period, the data is recorded in accordance with the copy restriction type indicated by the data in the first copy restriction type area CP1. The copy limit control is executed, and when the current day, which is the recording execution date, is within the second application period, copy limit control according to the copy limit type indicated by the data in the second copy limit type area CP2 is performed. When the current day, which is the recording execution date, is the date after the second application period elapses, the copy limit control according to the copy limit type indicated by the data in the third copy limit type area CP3 is performed.                 

As a result, in the second embodiment, in the recording apparatus, not only the application period data but also the data indicating the copy restriction type can be referred to, whereby the copy restriction in accordance with the intention of the provider of the content data can be performed. Done. Application periods of the copy restriction type and copy restriction type can be different for each content, and the copy restriction of the content data can be restricted according to the intention of the content provider or the content copyright holder.

In the second embodiment, each of the first, second, and third copy restriction types has been described as being prohibited to copy, limited to one copy number, and free to copy as shown in FIG. 8. It is not. As mentioned above, various things can be used by the intention of the provider of content data, and the setting of each application period can also be freely performed.

In the above-described first and second embodiments, as described with reference to Figs. 1 and 8, the data indicating the type of replication restriction of the last period elapsed is the final replication restriction type region ET and the third replication restriction. Although the type area CP3 is attached to the content data, it is not limited to this.

For example, in all content data, when the final copy limit type is determined, it is not necessary to set the data in the final copy limit type area ET and the third copy limit type area CP3. After the last application period has elapsed, it is also possible to control a predetermined copying control, i.e., to prevent the copying of the content data, vice versa, to freely copy the content data, or to restrict the number of copies of the content data. .

In the above-described first and second embodiments, as described with reference to Figs. 1 and 8, the application period of the copying restriction type is provided for two periods. However, it is not limited to this. The application period of the copy restriction type may be one period or two or more application periods may be set. In this case, in the case of the first embodiment, the copy restriction type is assigned to each application period in advance, and in the case of the second embodiment, the data representing the copy restriction type corresponding to each of the application periods is content data. Is added to.

2, 3, 4,… In the case where a plurality of application periods of the copy restriction type are provided as shown in the figure, for example, the copy restriction type is assigned only to the first application period, and in each of the second and subsequent application periods, in the case of the second embodiment described above. Similarly, data indicating the copy restriction type may be added (copies).

2, 3, 4,… In the case where a plurality of application periods of the copy restriction type are provided, for example, data indicating the copy restriction type is added (copies) only to the first application period, and for each of the second and subsequent application periods, As in the case of the first embodiment, the copy restriction type may be assigned in advance.

As described above, in a case where a plurality of application periods for copying restriction types are provided, one application period for allocating the copying restriction type in advance according to the attached position and one application period for accommodating data representing the copying restriction type are provided. May be used in combination with the content data. The position of the application period to which the copy restriction type is assigned in advance and the location of the application period to which data indicating the copy restriction type are added can be arbitrarily determined.

In the first and second embodiments described above, the data indicating the final copy restriction type is to be accompanied by the content data, but this is not limitative. For example, the final copy restriction type does not need to add data indicating the final copy restriction type to the content data, in all recording apparatuses, if the copy freedom or the copy prohibition is determined in advance.

In other words, the final copy restriction type may be uniformly determined in advance in all the recording apparatuses. For each recording device, the final copy limit type can be set in advance. For example, the final copy restriction type may be different for each content data based on the identification information of the content data and the like.

 [Reproduction Limit Control]

In the above-described first and second embodiments, the case of performing copy limit control has been described. However, the same can be done for the reproduction restriction. In other words, in the playback apparatus for reproducing the content data, the content data is accompanied by the application period data of the reproduction restriction type or by providing the data indicating the reproduction restriction type and the application period data of the reproduction restriction type. Reproduction limit control of data can be performed.

FIG. 10 is a view for explaining an example in which the application period data of the reproduction restriction type is provided along with content data. In this example, the application period data of the reproduction type is added to the header portion HD of the content data in the file format, similarly to the case where the application data of the copy restriction type shown in FIG. 1 is appended to the content data.                 

In FIG. 10, as the input area to the application period data of the reproduction restriction type, as in the case of the reproduction restriction type shown in FIG. 1, the reproduction prohibition period designation area NP and the reproduction in the header portion HD of the content data are reproduced. The end date area ED2 of the restricted type A and the final reproduction limit type area ET are provided.

It has a reproduction prohibition period designation area NP, a start date area ST1 and an end date area ED1. In the start date area ST1 of the reproduction prohibition period designation area NP, a start date of a period for prohibiting reproduction of content data subsequent to the header portion HO is input, and an end date area of the reproduction prohibition period designation area NP is entered. In ED1, an end date of a period forbidding reproduction of the content data is input. The example of FIG. 10 shows a case where, for example, the reproduction prohibition period of the corresponding content data is set from August 1, 2000 to August 31, 2000.

In the end date area ED2 of the reproduction restriction type A, the end date of the application period for restricting reproduction of the content data following the header portion HD in the reproduction restriction type A is input. The playback restriction type A is for example to limit the number of times of playback, for example, to instruct five times the number of times of playback circuits (up to five times in the same playback apparatus).

10 shows the application period of the reproduction limit type A (here, 5 times the reproduction limit), for example, from September 1, 2000, the day after August 31, 2000, which is the prohibition of reproduction. The case is set until September 30, 2000.

In the final reproduction limit type area ET, data indicating the reproduction restriction type after the application period of the reproduction restriction type A has elapsed is input. In this example, for example, data indicating the freedom of reproduction is input. In the example shown in Fig. 10, it is a case where a certain reproduction restriction type application period is determined in advance according to the additional position (position in the header HD) of the application period data.

In this manner, data indicating each of the reproduction prohibition period, the application period of the reproduction restriction type A, and the final reproduction restriction type is appended to the content data, and recorded on the recording medium such as an optical disc in the same way as the above-described copying restriction control. Can be distributed to the end user or transmitted through a communication network such as the Internet.

In this case, when the data indicating the application period of the reproduction restriction type is distributed along with the content data, for example, the date of sale of the music content data and the like is firmly ensured, and a plurality of pieces of the content data are stored within a predetermined period. It is used when the interest of the provider of the content data is not infringed upon, such as when it is desired to prevent the creation of a copy.

FIG. 11 is a view for explaining an example in which the data indicating the reproduction restriction type and the application period data of the reproduction restriction type are provided as accompanying data. Also in this example, data indicating the reproduction restriction type and application period data of the reproduction restriction type are added to the header portion HD of the content data in the file format.

In FIG. 11, similarly to the copy restriction type shown in FIG. 8, in the header portion HD of the content data, the first playback restriction type area PL1 and the end date area of the application period of the first playback restriction type are shown. The first application period end date area ED1, the second reproduction limit type area PS2, the second application period end date area ED2, and the third reproduction limit which are the end date areas of the application period of the second reproduction restriction type. The type area PL3 is provided.

In this example of Fig. 11, data representing a predetermined reproduction restriction type is input to the first reproduction restriction type area PL1 by the provider of the content data. As the reproduction restriction type, data indicating a predetermined reproduction restriction type such as "prohibition of reproduction", "limit of reproduction count once", "limit of reproduction count five times", and "freedom of reproduction" is input.

In the end date area ED1 of the first application period, the end date of the application period of the reproduction restriction type (first reproduction restriction type) input to the first reproduction restriction type area PL1 is input. In the case of the example of Fig. 11, the end date of the first application period is, for example, August 31, AD 2000, and before August 31, AD 2000, is the application period of the first reproduction restriction type.

In the example of Fig. 11, in the second playback limit type area PL2, for example, " prohibit playback ", " 1 playback count limit ", " 5 playback count limit " Predetermined reproduction limit type, such as "freedom of reproduction" is input.

In the end date area ED2 of the second application period, the end date of the application period of the reproduction restriction type (second reproduction restriction type) input to the second reproduction restriction type area PL1 is input. In the case of the example of Fig. 11, the end date of the second application period is, for example, September 30, 2000, and from September 1, 2000 AD, which is the day after the end date of the first application period, to AD 2000 The 30th month is the second application period.

In the third playback limit type area PL3, for example, "prohibit playback", "one time limit for playback", "5 time limit for playback", "freedom for playback", etc. are provided by the provider of the content data. The predetermined reproduction limit type is input. In the example shown in Fig. 11, the data input to the child third playback limit type area PL3 is data indicating the final playback limit type.

Also in the case of the example of FIG. 11, the data indicating the reproduction restriction type and the content data to which the application period of the reproduction restriction type is added are recorded on a recording medium such as an optical disc and distributed to end users, or a communication network such as the Internet. You can distribute it by sending it. In this way, the data indicating the reproduction restriction type is also added, so that the reproduction restriction type used flexibly can be changed depending on the provider of the content data and the content data.

 [Reproduction apparatus for controlling reproduction limitation]

Next, as shown in FIG. 10, the content data which is to be accompanied by the application period data of the reproduction limitation type, or as shown in FIG. 11, the data indicating the reproduction restriction type and the application period data of the reproduction restriction type are appended. A playback apparatus for playing back the content data will be described. Here, the case where the content data is recorded on the optical disc will be described as an example.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram for explaining a reproduction apparatus 500 for reproducing content data recorded on the optical disc 550, with the application period of the reproduction restriction type shown in FIG. 10 or 11 accompanying.

When the optical disc 550 is loaded in the playback apparatus 500, the control unit 520 controls the optical pickup unit 501, irradiates a laser light to the optical disc 550 in the optical pickup unit 501, and While receiving the reflected light reflected by 550, the spindle motor 502 is controlled, and the optical disk 550 is rotated uniformly, for example.

The optical pickup unit 501 includes an optical system such as a laser light source made of a semiconductor laser, a beam splitter, an objective lens, an actuator for driving the objective lens in a focusing direction, a tracking direction, a photodetector, and the like, and a laser light on the optical disk. , The reflected light from the optical disk 550 is received by the photo detector, the received reflected light is converted into an electrical signal, and the output signal from the photo detector is supplied to the RF circuit 503.

The RF circuit 503 generates a servo error signal such as a reproduction RF signal, a tracking error signal, a focus error signal, or the like. Here, the generated servo error signal is supplied to the servo circuit 504 and the reproduction RF signal is supplied to the demodulation circuit 505.

The servo circuit 504 controls the spindle motor 502 to make the optical disk 550 constant in line speed on the track of the optical disk 550 based on the servo error signal from the RF circuit 503. The optical pickup unit 501 is controlled to scan the laser beam by laser beam of a beam spot having an appropriate size.

When a playback instruction is input from the user through the key operation section 424 of the playback apparatus 500, the system control section (hereinafter simply referred to as a control section) 520 controls each part of the playback apparatus 500, The reproduction processing of the content data read out from the optical disc via the pickup section 501 is started.

That is, the control unit 520 moves the optical pickup unit 501 to the recording position on the optical disc 550 of the file (content data) instructed to play back. As described above, the laser light is irradiated to the optical disk 550, the reflected light from the optical disk 550 is received by the photodetector of the optical pickup unit 501, and the reflected light is converted into an electrical signal by the port detector. The converted electrical signal is supplied to the RF circuit 503 as an output signal from the photo detector.

As described above, the RF circuit 503 generates, from the signal from the optical pickup unit 501, a reproduction RF signal of the content data including the header unit, and transmits the reproduction RF signal to the demodulation circuit 505. Supply. The demodulation circuit 505 demodulates the content data from the RF circuit 503 upon receiving the control signal instructing the start of the demodulation process from the control unit 520 and converts the demodulated data into the ECC decoder 506. Supplies).

The ECC decoder 506 performs error correction on the content data from the demodulation circuit 505 and supplies the corrected content data to the reproduction limitation information separating circuit 507. In the header section HD of the supplied content data, the reproduction restriction information separating circuit 507 includes reproduction restriction information such as application period data of the reproduction restriction type, or identification information unique to content data such as, for example, ISRC. Is separated, extracted, and the extracted data is supplied to the controller 520.

As shown in FIG. 12, the control unit 520 is connected to a clock circuit 521 and a reproduction count memory 522. Similar to the clock circuit 421 of the recording apparatus 400, the clock circuit 521 has a calendar function and provides the current month, day, present day, and present time, but the user changes their information, and the like. You will not be able to.

The reproduction count memory 522 manages the identification information and the reproduction circuit of the content data reproduced in the reproduction device 500, and the user cannot add, change, or delete the data. That is, the reproduction count memory 522 corresponds to the copy count memory 422 of the recording device 400, and manages the use count for each piece of content data, although there is a difference between the copy count and the playback count. It has the same function.

The control unit 520 reproduces the data based on the playback restriction information separating circuit 508 and the current date from the clock circuit 521 or the current date from the clock circuit 521 and the information on the number of times of the memory 522. Determines whether this is possible or not. When determining that playback is possible, the control unit 520 controls the playback limiting circuit 508 to output the demodulated content data to the outside via the output terminal 509.

When it is determined that the reproduction of the content data is impossible, the control unit 520 controls the reproduction control circuit 508 and does not output the demodulated content data after the reproduction control 508. In this way, playback restriction control can be performed in the playback apparatus based on the playback restriction information added to the header portion HD of the content data.

As shown in Fig. 10, in the case of reproducing the content data by adding the application period data of the reproduction limitation type to the header unit HD, the same as in the case of the recording process in the recording apparatus shown in Figs. Playback can be performed to restrict playback of content data.

That is, in the case of reproducing the content data shown in FIG. 10, first, the control unit 520 of the reproduction device 500 selects application period data of the reproduction restriction type, which is reproduction restriction information from the reproduction restriction information separating circuit 507, and the like. Reference is then made to the current date (playback execution date) indicated by the clock circuit 521.

It is determined whether or not the current date is within the prohibition period from the application period data of the reproduction limit type referred to and whether or not the current date falls within the prohibition period. The user is notified through the display unit 523 or the like, which is completed, and the reproduction processing of the content data is finished.

When it is determined that the current day is not within the prohibition period, the control unit 520 determines whether or not the current day is within the application period of the reproduction limit type A. When it is determined that the current day is within the application period of the reproduction limitation type A, the control unit 520 determines the data of the reproduction number memory 522 based on the identification information of the content data from the reproduction restriction information separating circuit 508. Reference is made to determine whether or not the number of times of reproduction of the content data to be reproduced is exceeded.

When it is determined that the number of times of reproduction of the content data to be reproduced is exceeded, the control unit 520 controls the reproduction control circuit 508 so as not to output the demodulated content data, and displays that the reproduction is impossible. The user is notified via the message, and the reproduction processing of the content data is finished.

When it is determined that the number of times of reproduction of the content data to be reproduced is not exceeded, the control unit 520 controls the reproduction control circuit 508 to output the demodulated content data, and when the content data is outputted, The number of times of reproduction of the corresponding content data in the number of times of reproduction memory 522 is increased, and the reproduction processing of the contents data is terminated.

When the current date is the date after the application period of the reproduction limit type A has elapsed, the control unit 52 performs reproduction restriction in accordance with the data of the final reproduction limit type. In other words, if the final reproduction restriction type is free, reproduction is performed without restricting the content data.

If the last reproduction limit type limits the number of reproductions, the information in the reproduction count memory 522 is referred to, and the reproduction within the reproduction limit count is made possible. If the final reproduction limit type is prohibition of reproduction, content data is not reproduced. In this way, playback restriction control of the content data can also be performed.

As shown in FIG. 11, in the case of reproducing the content data by adding the data indicating the reproduction restriction type and the application period data of the reproduction restriction type to the header unit HD, the recording processing in the recording apparatus shown in FIG. In the same manner as in the case, playback processing can be performed to restrict playback of content data.

That is, in the case of reproducing the content data shown in Fig. 11, first, the control unit 520 of the reproduction device 500 displays data indicating the reproduction restriction type, which is reproduction restriction information from the reproduction restriction information separating circuit 507, and reproduction. Refer to the application period data of the restriction type, and then refer to the current day (playback execution date) indicated by the clock circuit 521.

The controller 52 determines whether or not the current day is within the first application period, and when it is determined that it is within the first application period, the control unit 52 performs reproduction limit control according to the first reproduction restriction type. When it is determined that the current day is not within the first application period, the control unit 520 determines whether the current day is within the second application period, and when it is determined that it is within the second application period, the control unit 520 determines that it is within the second application period. Regeneration limit control in accordance with the regeneration limit type is performed.

When it is determined that the current day is not within the second application period, the control unit 520 performs reproduction limit control according to the third reproduction limit type, that is, the last reproduction limit type.

In this manner, the reproduction restriction of the content data can be performed in the same manner as the reproduction restriction of the content data. Thus, by restricting the reproduction of the content data, it is possible to prevent the profit on the provider side of the content data from being violated.

In the embodiment in which the reproduction limit control described above is performed, the case of reproducing the content data recorded on the optical disc has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in a device such as a personal computer that supplies content data provided through a communication network such as the Internet to a device such as a speaker or a monitor receiver, the reproduction of the header portion is performed in the same manner as in the case of the playback apparatus 500 described above. On the basis of the restriction information, reproduction restriction (output restriction control) may be performed.

The above-described playback apparatus 500 in a receiver called IRD, STB (Set Top Box), or the like which outputs content data provided through broadcast media such as digital satellite broadcasting to an external device such as a speaker or a monitor receiver. In the same way as in the above), reproduction limit control (output limit control) can be performed based on the reproduction limit information of the header portion.

The copy restriction type is not limited to the above, and various ones can be used. For example, the limit on the number of times of reproduction is not only once, five times, but also twice, three times, four times,... Can be set to limit the number of times a suitable number of times.

Also in the case of the reproduction restriction control described above, if the final reproduction restriction type is determined for all the content data, it is not necessary to set the data in the final reproduction restriction type area ET and the third reproduction restriction type area PL3. none. After the last application period has elapsed, predetermined reproduction limit control, i.e., reproduction of the content data is prohibited, or conversely, the reproduction of the content data can be freed, or the number of reproduction of the content data can be restricted.

Also in the case of the above-described reproduction limit control, the application period of the reproduction limit type may be one period, or of course, two or more application periods may be set. In this case, in the case of the example shown in Fig. 10, the reproduction limitation type is assigned to each application period in advance, and in the case of the example shown in Fig. 11, the data representing the reproduction restriction type corresponding to each application period is the content data. To be added.

2, 3, 4,… As described above, in the case where a plurality of application periods of the reproduction restriction type are set, for example, the reproduction restriction type is assigned only to the first application period, and data representing the reproduction restriction type is assigned to each of the second and subsequent application periods. You may add it.

2, 3, 4,… As described above, in the case where a plurality of application periods of the reproduction restriction type are set, for example, data indicating the reproduction restriction type is added only to the first application period, and each of the second and subsequent application periods is shown in FIG. As in the case of the example, the reproduction restriction type may be assigned in advance.

As described above, in the case where a plurality of application periods for the reproduction restriction type are set, the application period for allocating the reproduction restriction type in advance according to the attached position and the application period for accommodating the data indicating the reproduction restriction type are one as described above. May be used in combination with the content data. The position of the application period for allocating the reproduction restriction type in advance and the position of the application period for adding data representing the reproduction restriction type can be arbitrarily determined.

In the examples shown in Figs. 10 and 11, data indicating the final reproduction restriction type is appended to the content data, but this is not limitative. For example, the final reproduction restriction type does not need to add data indicating the final reproduction restriction type to the content data when the recording freedom is predetermined in all recording apparatuses.

In other words, the final reproduction limit type may be uniformly determined in advance in all recording apparatuses. It is also possible to set the final reproduction limit type in advance for each recording apparatus. For example, the final copy restriction type may be different for each content data based on the identification information of the content data and the like.

Both the application period data of the copy restriction type and the application period data of the reproduction limit type are added to the header of the content data, or both the data representing the copy restriction type and the data indicating the application period of the copy restriction type are added. You may do so.

Third Embodiment

 [Data transmission method and recording medium of the third embodiment]

Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining a third embodiment of the data transmission method according to the present invention. In this third embodiment, application period data, which is data indicating the application period of the charge restriction type (charge limitation type), is attached to the content data and transmitted.

In this case, the charge restriction type is for imposing a fee for use of the content data, instructing a charge for copying or reproducing the content data, and for copying or reproducing only when charged. .

In other words, the charge limit type is "free copying according to (if possible)", "1 copy number limit according to (if applicable)", and "number of copies according to (if possible)). 5 ", etc., only in accordance with the imposition, it is possible to reproduce by a predetermined replication restriction type, and when not imposed, it is instructed to make a non-replication (inhibition of reproduction). Therefore, the charge restriction type can, in principle, copy the content data.

As for the duplication, the charge limitation type can also be used for the reproduction of the content data. Therefore, the charge limit type for regeneration is `` free regeneration according to (if possible) '', `` one time limit for regeneration according to (if possible) '', and `` if possible "5 times the number of playbacks", etc., the playback is allowed according to the predetermined playback limit type only when the charging is required, and when the charging is not performed, the playback is not allowed (the playback is prohibited).

As described above, the charge restriction type allows the use of copying, reproduction, and the like of the content data according to the charge. In addition, the charge restriction type includes instructing not to actively charge. For example, the instructions such as "free copy price" and "free playback price" are also one of the charge limit types, but in this case, the copy limit type is simply determined.

Also in this third embodiment, as shown in Fig. 13, the content data is provided in a file format, and the free period designation area NP is provided in the header portion HD of the content data provided in the file format. , The pay period designation area (PY) is set.

In Fig. 13, the free period designation area NP is composed of a 32-bit start date area ST1 and a 32-bit end date area ED1, such as duplication of content data following the header part HD. The start date and the end date of the period during which it is possible to perform free of charge are input at the provider of the content data.

In Fig. 13, the paid period designation area PY is composed of a 32-bit start date area ST2 and a 32-bit end date area ED2, and the content data subsequent to the header part HD is copied. Etc. in response to the charge, that is, the start date and the end date of the paid period to be paid for are input at the provider of the content data.

In this third embodiment, the free period is, for example, one month from August 1, 2000 to August 31, AD 2000, and the paid period is, for example, September 2000 AD. It is one year from August 1 to August 31, 2001.

As shown in Fig. 13, the free period data indicating the free period and the paid period data indicating the paid period and the content data imposed on the header unit HD are the same as in the case of the first and second embodiments described above. It is recorded and provided on a recording medium such as an optical disc, or transmitted through a communication network such as the Internet, or transmitted through a broadcast media, thereby being widely distributed to end users.

[Recording apparatus performing charge limit control]

Next, as shown in FIG. 13, the recording apparatus receives the supply of the content data such that the start date and end date of the free period, the start period and the end period of the paid period are added (added), and records this on the recording medium. Explain. Also in this third embodiment, the recording apparatus is capable of recording data such as a CD-R (CD Recordable) disc or a CD-RW (CD ReWritable) disc as in the first and second embodiments described above. An example of an optical disc recording apparatus using an optical disc as a recording medium will be described.

14 is a block diagram for explaining the recording apparatus 600 of the first embodiment. The recording apparatus 600 shown in FIG. 14 includes an accompanying information separating circuit 601, an encryption circuit 602, an accompanying information generating circuit 603, a card reader 604, a communication interface (communication I / F in FIG. 14). 605) and a connection terminal 606 to the communication I / F 605.

As will be described later, the additional information separating circuit 601 separates and extracts free period data, paid period data, and other necessary data added to the header portion HD of the content data. The encryption circuit 602 performs encryption processing on the content data, for example, to prevent unauthorized use of the content data.

The accompanying information generating circuit 603 generates free period data, paid period data, and the like which accompany the recorded content data. The card reader 604 is for charge processing, and has a charging slot for a memory card, such as a so-called prepaid card, in which information on the amount of money prepaid previously is recorded, and the amount of information recorded on the loaded memory card is read out. To write.

The communication interface (hereinafter, abbreviated to communication I / F) 605 and the connection terminal 606 with the communication I / F 605 are for connecting to a communication network such as the Internet, for example. For example, in order to be able to receive information, such as information on charges, provided through a communication network.

Each part other than this is comprised similarly to the case of the recording apparatus 400 of 1st, 2nd embodiment shown in FIG. For this reason, also in the recording apparatus 600 of FIG. 14, about the part comprised in the same way as the recording apparatus 400 shown in FIG. 4, the same code | symbol as the circuit part corresponding to the recording apparatus 400 shown in FIG. Are omitted, and their detailed description is omitted.

As described with reference to FIG. 13, the content data in which the free period data and the paid period data are added to the header unit HD is input to the recording apparatus 600 shown in FIG. 14 through the input terminal 401. It is supplied to the accompanying information separating circuit 601.

Here, the content data supplied to the recording device 600 is a reproducing apparatus for reproducing the content data from the optical disc on which the content data is recorded, or a personal computer connected to a communication network such as the Internet and receiving distribution of the content data through the communication network. It is supplied from a user terminal apparatus such as a receiver or a receiver of a digital satellite broadcasting that provides content data.                 

As shown in FIG. 13, the accompanying information separating circuit 601 includes free period data of the free period designation area NP of the header portion HD of the content data, paid period data of the paid period designation area PY, The necessary data such as identification information of the content data is separated and extracted, the separated data is supplied to the system controller 420, and the content data is supplied to the encryption circuit 602.

The encryption circuit 602, for example, receives a supply of an encryption key from the control unit 420 and performs a predetermined encryption process on the content data recorded on the optical disc, for example, to prevent unauthorized use of the content data. . The encryption circuit 602 supplies the encrypted content data to the recording control circuit 403.

On the other hand, as described above, the control unit 420 is supplied with the free period data, the paid period data, the identification information of the content data, etc. with respect to the content data, and the control unit 420 can manage them. When the control unit 420 receives the recording instruction from the user via the key operation unit 424, the control unit 420 refers to the current date of the clock circuit 421 and detects the current date which is the recording execution date.

The controller 420 determines whether the current day is during the free period, the paid period, or the date after the paid period has elapsed. The control unit 420 supplies a control signal to the recording control circuit 403 when the current day from the clock circuit 421 is in the free period, and transmits the content data from the encryption circuit 602 to the synthesis circuit 404. Supply it.

At the same time, the control unit 420 controls the additional information generating circuit 603 to generate charge restriction information such as free period data and paid period data added to the header portion of the content data recorded on the optical disc, and at the same time, the synthesis circuit. 404, the ECC encoder 403, the modulation circuit 407, and the recording circuit 408 are controlled to record the content data.

As a result, the charge restriction information generated in the accompanying information generating circuit 603 is supplied to the synthesizing circuit 404, where it is input (set) at a predetermined position of the header portion HD of the content data. The content data which is encrypted and the new charge restriction information is added to the header unit HD is transferred to the optical disk via the ECC encoder unit 406, the modulation circuit 407, the recording circuit 408, and the optical pickup unit 409. 650).

The controller 420 reads out the prepaid amount information of the memory card 660 loaded in the card reader 604 in this embodiment when the current date from the clock circuit 421 is in the pay period. Is possible or not, i.e., whether there is a balance for which payment is possible, and if charge is possible, as described above, the respective circuits after the recording control circuit 403 are controlled to control the optical disc 650 of the content data. Enable recording of furnaces.

However, if the current date from the clock circuit 421 is in the paid period, but the balance of the prepaid amount recorded in the memory card 660 is insufficient and cannot be charged, or the memory card 660 itself is a card reader. If it is not loaded at 604, it is determined that charging is impossible, the recording control circuit 403 is controlled, and the content data is not output to the synthesizing circuit 404. That is, recording of content data is made impossible. In this case, the user is notified by displaying on the display unit 423 that the content data cannot be copied.

In this manner, when the current date of recording execution falls within the paid period, the content data can be copied only when charge is possible, and when the charge is impossible, the content data is prohibited. When the current day is a date after the paid period, in this third embodiment, the control unit 420 performs a predetermined duplication limit or charge limitation. In the recording apparatus 600 of this third embodiment, duplication is uniformly prohibited.

In addition, if the date is after the paid period, the copying is not limited to the copying uniformly, and the copying control may be performed freely or a predetermined copying limit control such as the copying limit is performed. In the case of limiting the copy number, it is judged whether copying is possible or not based on the information in the copy count memory 422 similarly to the recording apparatus 400 of the first and second embodiments described above. Is executed, the corresponding content data copy number information of the copy number memory 422 is updated.

In the case where the present day is a date after the pay period, predetermined charge restriction control can be performed. In other words, if the current date is after the paid period, it is possible to copy the content data when a predetermined amount can be imposed, or prohibit copying of the content data when a predetermined amount cannot be imposed. Can be.

In addition, the charge amount is set in advance in the recording apparatus 600, for example. Of course, the data indicating the charge amount is added to the header portion HD of the content data, and the like, which is attached to the content data and supplied to the recording device 600, and supplied to the accompanying information separating circuit 601 of the recording device 600. Can be extracted and used.                 

Since the recording apparatus 600 of this third embodiment has the communication I / F 605 as described above, the data indicating the charge amount via the communication network is stored in the communication I / F. The charge can be used by receiving from a server apparatus or the like on the provider side.

Also in this third embodiment, as in the case of the first and second embodiments, data indicating the final copy restriction type or data indicating the final charge restriction type are added to the header portion HD of the content data or the like. By providing the content data accompanying the content data, the copy restriction type or the charge restriction type can be indicated after the paid period has elapsed.

 [Recording Process in the Recording Apparatus of the Third Embodiment]

Next, the recording process performed in the above-described recording apparatus 600 will be described with reference to FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining the recording process performed in the recording apparatus 600. When a recording execution instruction from the user is input through the key operation unit 424 of the recording apparatus 600, and the content data is supplied to the recording apparatus 600 through the input terminal 401, the control unit (of the recording apparatus 600) ( 420 executes the process shown in FIG. 15.

First, the controller 420 refers to the charge restriction information from the incidental information separating circuit 601, that is, free period data, paid period data, and identification information of the content data as described above (step S301). Next, the control unit 420 refers to the current day of the clock circuit 421 (step S302).                 

Next, the control unit 420 determines whether or not the current day belongs to the free period from the free period data of the charge restriction information referred to in step S301 and the current date referenced in step S302 (step S303). ).

In the judgment processing of step S303, when it is determined that the current day belongs to the free period, the control unit 420 permits duplication, controls the recording control circuit 403 to synthesize the encrypted content data. The circuit 404 is controlled to execute the recording process of each part of the recording apparatus 600 (step S304), and the recording of the content data is executed (step S305). Subsequently, the recording unit enters the standby state until the recording of the content data ends (step S306). When the recording ends, the processing shown in FIG.

In the judging process of step S303, when it is determined that the current day does not belong to the free period, the control unit 420 uses the charge restriction information referred to in step S301 and the current day referred to in step S302, It is determined whether or not the current day belongs to the paid period (step S307).

In the determination processing of step S307, when it is determined that the current day belongs to the pay period, the control unit 420 informs the user, for example, via the display unit 423 that the duplication of content data is paid. Notify it (step S308). The processing of this step (S308) is displayed on the display unit 423 "Replication is charged. Please load a predetermined prepaid card into the card reader.

The control unit 420 checks the balance of the prepaid amount loaded in the card reader 604 and determines whether or not charge is possible (step S309). In the judgment processing of step S309, if it is determined that charging is possible, the control unit 420 permits duplication, controls the recording control circuit 403, and supplies the encrypted content data to the synthesis circuit 404. For example, control is performed to execute recording processing of each part of the recording apparatus 600 (step S310), and recording of content data is executed (step S311).

The control unit 420 is in a waiting state until the recording of the content data ends (step S311). When the recording is completed, the control unit 420 prepaid the remaining amount of the prepaid card 660 loaded in the card reader 604 (balance). In step S312, a charge processing for subtracting the charge for duplication is executed (step S312), and the processing shown in FIG. 15 ends.

In addition, when the imposition of step S312 is not performed normally, for example, when the prepaid card 660 is peeled off, the process of step S313 is not finished until the imposition is terminated normally. However, it is not possible to copy content data without paying a fee.

In the judgment processing of step S309, when it is determined that charging is impossible, in this third embodiment, the control unit 420 controls the recording control circuit 403 to feed the content data to the synthesis circuit 404. The recording of the content data is prohibited, so as not to be supplied (step S315).

In the process of this step (S315), the control part 420 cannot perform a "charge processing" on the display part 423. Please load a prepaid card with sufficient balance. ”And a process of notifying the user that duplication cannot be made because an appropriate charge is not possible.                 

In the judgment processing of step S307, if it is determined that the current day does not fall within the pay period, the predetermined copy limit control is performed in this third embodiment (step S314). In this third embodiment, since copying after the paid period has been prohibited, the controller 420 controls the recording control circuit 403 to record the content data without supplying the content data to the synthesis circuit 404. Is prohibited.

In the process of this step S314, the control part 420 reads to the display part 423 "The time period which can be duplicated has passed. A copy is not allowed. ”A process for notifying the user that content data cannot be copied is also performed.

In this manner, by attaching the free period data and the paid period data to the content data, at the beginning of the sale of the content data, free copying of the content is possible for a certain period of time for the promotion of the content data, and the like. After the period has elapsed, copying can be carried out with imposition so as not to impair the benefits of the provider of the content data and to prevent the dissemination of the content data.

In this third embodiment, the free periods and the paid periods are provided one by one as shown in Fig. 13, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, after a predetermined free period has elapsed, only a free period data is appended to the content data when subject to a predetermined charge in duplication. After the free period has elapsed, by controlling the recording device side to make a predetermined charge in duplication as a condition of duplication, the free period and the paid period can be used only by appending the free period data to the content data.

If no free period is provided, only the paid period data may be accompanied by the content data. If only one paid period is provided, and after that period has elapsed, if the charge is not conditioned (to be free) in the duplication, the recording apparatus side is always free for duplication after the paid period has elapsed. By controlling in, the paid period and the free period can be used only by appending the paid period data to the content data.

If only one paid period is provided, and after that period has elapsed, only when the paid period data is subject to a predetermined charge in duplication, only the paid period data is attached to the content data. After the pay period has elapsed, two pay periods with different charge conditions can be used by controlling the recording apparatus so that a predetermined charge is always set as a condition for copying. It is also possible to provide a plurality of pay periods with different charging conditions.

In the above-described third embodiment, the description has been made as to perform predetermined copy limit control such as prohibiting copying after the pay period has elapsed. That is, the duplication limit type after the last elapse of the free period and the paid period is predetermined, and the recording apparatus 600 automatically executes the duplication limit control according to the duplication limit type. However, it is not limited to this.

If the data indicating the copy restriction type (final copy restriction type) after the last period in the free period and the paid period is appended to the content data, and the content data is copied after the last period has elapsed, it is attached to the content data. It is also possible to perform copy limit control based on the data indicating the last copy limit type. In this case, the data indicating the final copying restriction type provided in conjunction with the content data may be extracted by the accompanying information separating circuit 601, and the controller 420 may use the copying control to perform the copying restriction.

The final charge limit type may be used instead of the final copy limit type. By setting the final charge limit type in advance to be uniform in all recording apparatuses, or by providing data indicating the final charge limit type to the content data, the content data only after a predetermined charge has elapsed after the application period. Restriction control can be made so that can be duplicated.

This final charge restriction type can also be applied to the transmission methods of the first and second embodiments. That is, the final copy restriction type region ET shown in FIG. 1 can be used as the final charge limit type region, and after the last period elapses, copying can be allowed on condition of a predetermined charge.

[Playback Restriction Control]

In the above-described third embodiment, the case of performing copy limit control has been described. However, the same can be done for the reproduction limit control. That is, as shown in FIG. 13, when the free period and the paid period added to the header portion HD of the content data are for reproduction, the content of the content is subject to a predetermined charge in the free period. It is possible to control in the reproducing apparatus to permit reproducing.

[Reproduction device performing playback restriction control]

Next, a reproducing apparatus for reproducing the content data for which the free period data and the paid period data for reproduction are added to the header portion HD as shown in FIG. 13 will be described. Here, the description will be given by taking the case where the content data is recorded on the optical disc.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram for explaining a playback apparatus 700 for reproducing content data recorded on the optical disc 750, with accompanying free period data and paid period data for reproduction as shown in FIG. . The reproducing apparatus 700 shown in Fig. 16 has a connection terminal with an accompanying information separating circuit 701, an encryption decoding circuit 702, a card reader 703, a communication I / F 704, and a communication I / F 704. 705.

As will be described later, the secondary information separating circuit 701 separates and extracts free period data, paid period data, and other necessary data added to the header portion HD of the content data. The decryption circuit 702 is for decrypting the encryption applied to the content data and restoring the content data before encryption.

That is, in the optical disc 750 loaded in the playback apparatus 700, as shown in Fig. 13, the free period data and the paid period data for playback are added to the header portion HD, but the content data portion is not included. Encryption processing is carried out, and illegal use of content data is prevented. For this reason, the decryption circuit 702 is provided in the reproduction device 700.                 

In the case where the header portion of the content data is encrypted, the decryption circuit is provided in the secondary information separation circuit 507 and the header portion of the content data is also encrypted. In the case of content data, an encryption decryption circuit 702 is provided in front of the ECC decoder 506.

The card reader 703 is for charge processing, and has a charging slot for a memory card such as a prepaid card in which the prepaid amount of money information is recorded, and reading and writing the amount of money information recorded on the loaded memory card. To do.

The connection I / F 704 and the connection terminal 704 with the communication I / F 704 are intended for continuous access to a communication network such as the Internet, for example, for example, provided through a communication network. It is intended to be provided with information on charges.

Each part other than this is comprised similarly to the case of the reproduction | regeneration apparatus 500 of 1st, 2nd embodiment shown in FIG. For this reason, also in the playback apparatus 700 of FIG. 16, the same configuration as that of the playback apparatus 700 shown in FIG. 12 is the same as that of the corresponding circuit portion of the playback apparatus 500 shown in FIG. 12. Reference numerals are attached, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

As in the case of the reproducing apparatus 700 shown in FIG. 12, when the optical disc 750 is loaded in the reproducing apparatus 700, and a reproduction instruction is input by the user, the reproducing apparatus 700 reads from the optical disc 750. The reading of the contents data is started, the contents data read out from the optical disc 750 and demodulated are supplied to the accompanying information separating circuit 701.

The accompanying information separating circuit 701 separately extracts the free period data of the free period designation area NP of the header unit HD and the paid period data of the pay period designation area PY, and supplies the same to the controller 520. At the same time, the content data is supplied to the reproduction limiting circuit 508.

The control unit 520 performs reproduction limit control in substantially the same manner as the processing in the recording apparatus 600 shown in FIG. That is, the controller 520 refers to the free period data and the paid period data from the incidental information separating circuit 701 and refers to the current date of the clock circuit 521, and the current date is indicated by the free period data. It is determined whether or not it belongs to the period.

When it is determined that the free period belongs, the control unit 520 permits the reproduction, controls the reproduction control circuit 508 and the decryption circuit 702 to retrieve the content data from the secondary information extraction unit 701. The data is supplied to the decryption circuit 702, decrypted, and the content data after decryption is output through the output terminal 509. FIG.

When it is determined that the current day does not belong to the free period, the control unit 520 determines whether the current day falls within the free period, and when it is determined that the current day belongs to the paid period, the content data. The user is notified that a charge is required for the reproduction of the card, the balance of the prepaid card 730 loaded in the card reader 703 is checked, and it is determined whether or not the charge is possible.

Here, when it is determined that charging is possible, the control unit 520 permits the reproduction, controls the reproduction control circuit 508 and the decryption circuit 702 as described above, and then, from the incidental information extraction unit 701. Is supplied to the decryption circuit 702, decrypted, and the decrypted content data is output through the output terminal 509. FIG.                 

If charging is not possible due to insufficient balance or prepaid card failure, the playback control circuit 508 is controlled to prevent the supply of the content data to the decryption circuit 702 and prohibit the reproduction of the content data. do.

If it is determined that the current day does not fall within the pay period, that is, the date after the pay period has elapsed, the control unit 520 performs a predetermined reproduction limit. In this case, predetermined reproduction restrictions such as prohibition of reproduction, freedom of reproduction, and limitation on the number of reproduction are performed.

In addition, when limiting the number of times of playback, the control unit 520 refers to the data of the number of times of memory 522, checks the number of times of content data to be played, permits playback only when possible, and the number of times of playback. The frequency of reproduction of the content data in the memory 522 is updated. In this case, it is extracted from the header unit HD of the content data to be reproduced and supplied to the control unit 520, so that it can be used.

In this way, by attaching the free period data and the paid period data for reproduction to the content data, the reproduction limit control can be performed in the same manner as in the case of the copy limit control.

Also, in the case of the reproduction limit control, after the predetermined free period has elapsed, only the paid period data is appended to the content data when subject to a predetermined charge in reproduction. After the pay period has elapsed, the playback apparatus controls the reproduction apparatus so that the predetermined charge is always a condition for reproduction in the reproduction, so that two pay periods having different charge conditions can be used. It is also possible to provide a plurality of pay periods with different charging conditions.

Also in the case of the reproduction limit control, the copy limit type after the end of the last period in the free period and the paid period is determined in advance, and it is explained that the playback limit control is automatically performed in the playback apparatus 700 according to the copy limit type. However, it is not limited to this.

Data indicating the copy restriction type (final reproduction limit type) after the last period in the free period and the paid period is appended to the content data, and the content data is appended to the content data when the content data is reproduced after the last period elapses. The reproduction limit control can be performed based on the data indicating the last reproduction limit type. In this case, the data indicating the final copy restriction type provided in conjunction with the content data may be extracted by the accompanying information separating circuit 701, and the control unit 520 may use this to perform the playback limit control.

The final charge limit type may be used instead of the final recycle limit type. By setting the final charge limit type in advance to be uniform in all recording apparatuses or by providing data indicating the final charge limit type to the content data, the content data only after a predetermined charge is passed after the application period has elapsed. Control can be controlled to play the video.

This final charge restriction type can also be applied to the transmission methods of the first and second embodiments described above. That is, the final reproduction limit type area ET shown in FIG. 10 and the third restriction type area PL3 shown in FIG. 11 are used as the final charge limit type area, and after the last period, subject to a predetermined charge. Allow playback.

In Fig. 13, a start date and an end date are provided for each of the free period and the paid period, but this is not limitative. Of course, only the end date may be installed. In this case, the first period, in the case of the example of FIG. 13, is a free period, but the free period is before the end date and continues, and in the case of the example of FIG. 13, the paid period is a free period. The period from the following day until the end date of the paid period.

 Fourth Embodiment

    [Data transmission method and recording medium of the fourth embodiment]

17 is a diagram for explaining a fourth embodiment of a data transmission method according to the present invention. In this fourth embodiment, the copy data includes the copy prohibition period data representing the application period of the prohibition of copying and the pay period data indicating the pay period for the imposition of the copying, and are recorded and provided on the recording medium. Provide by sending.

Also in this fourth embodiment, as shown in Fig. 17, the content data is provided in a file format, and the copy prohibition period designation area NC is provided in the header portion HD of the content data provided in the file format. A pay-period designation area (PY) is installed.

In Fig. 17, the copy prohibition period designation area NC is composed of a 32-bit start date area ST1 and a 32-bit end date area ED1, and the content data continues in the header part HD. The start date and end date of the period forbidding duplication (copy restraint period) are input at the provider side of the content data.

In Fig. 17, the paid period designation area PY is composed of a 32-bit start date area ST2 and a 32-bit end date area ED2, and the copy of the content data following the header part HD is performed. The start date and the end date of the pay period for enabling duplication for a fee are input at the provider of the content data.

In this fourth embodiment, the copy prohibition period is, for example, one year from August 1, 2000 AD to July 31, 2001 AD, and the paid period is, for example, AD 2001 2. It is scheduled for two years and five months from January 1 to July 31, 2003.

As shown in Fig. 17, the copy prohibition period and the paid period are set to overlap, for example, for five months from February 1, 2001 to July 31, 2001. This five-month overlap period is set as a prohibition period for copying the content data or as a period during which a predetermined amount of content data, for example, up to one copy number, can be copied, subject to a charge.

Therefore, as shown in Fig. 17, in the case of content data that is to be accompanied by copy prohibition period data and paid period data, for example, the period from August 1, 2000 AD to January 31, 2001 AD, The period of `` absolute cloning '' shall be the period, for example, the overlapping period from 1st February 2001 to 31st July 2001 shall be `` principle of banning the principle, but the number of copies shall be limited if One (copyable once) period, for example, the period from August 1, 2001 to July 31, 2003, is a period of "copyable if it meets the charge."

In addition, also in this fourth embodiment, predetermined duplication limit control is performed on duplication after the paid period has elapsed. In this fourth embodiment, the duplication after the paid period is set in advance so as to be "free copy", for example.

As shown in Fig. 17, the content data in which the copy prohibition period data and the pay period data are added to the header unit HD is recorded in the same manner as in the first, second, and third embodiments described above. It is recorded and provided on the medium, transmitted through a communication network such as the Internet, or transmitted through a broadcast medium, thereby being widely distributed to end users.

 [Recording device for copy limit control and charge limit control]

Next, as shown in Fig. 17, a recording apparatus for receiving the supply of content data such that the start date and end date of the copy prohibition period, the start period and the end period of the pay period are added (added), and record this on the recording medium. It demonstrates. The recording apparatus of this fourth embodiment has the same configuration as that of the recording apparatus 600 of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 14, and also refers to FIG. 14 for the recording process in the recording apparatus of this fourth embodiment. Explain.

In the recording apparatus 600 according to the fourth embodiment, the copy information period designation area NC of the header portion HD of the content data in the file format in the accompanying information separating circuit 601 is shown in FIG. The copy prohibition period data, the pay period data of the pay period designation area PY, the identification information of the content data, and the like are extracted and supplied to the controller 420.

In this way, the information extracted in the incident information separation circuit 601 of the recording apparatus 600 of the fourth embodiment is different from the information extracted in the incident information separation circuit 601 of the recording apparatus of the third embodiment. Differently, the processing performed by the control unit 420 which receives the supply of information from the accompanying information separating circuit 601 is also different from the recording apparatus of the third embodiment.

 [Recording Process in the Recording Apparatus of the Fourth Embodiment]

18 and 19 are flowcharts for explaining the recording process performed in the recording apparatus 600 of this fourth embodiment. When a recording execution instruction from the user is input through the key operation unit 424 of the recording apparatus 600, and the content data is supplied to the recording apparatus 600 through the input terminal 401, the control unit (of the recording apparatus 600) ( 420 executes the processes shown in FIGS. 18 and 19.

First, the control unit 420 refers to copy control information from the incidental information separating circuit 601, that is, identification information of copy prohibition period data, pay period data, and content data (step S401). Next, the control unit 420 refers to the current day of the clock circuit 421 (step S402).

The control unit 420 judges whether or not the current day falls within the copy prohibition period from the duplication limit information referred to in step S401 and the current day referred to in step S402 (step S403). In the determination processing of step S403, when it is determined that the current day belongs to the copy prohibition period, the control unit 420 controls the duplication restriction information referred to in step S401 and the current day referred to in step S402. In step S404, it is determined whether or not the current day belongs to the paid period.

In step S404, when it is determined that the current day falls within the paid period, it is determined that the current day belongs to a period in which the copy prohibition period and the paid period overlap (duplicate period). By displaying a message on the display unit 423 that duplication is possible only once, the user is notified (step S405).

The control unit 420 confirms the balance of the prepaid amount of the prepaid loaded on the card reader 604, and confirms the identification information of the content data to be copied referred to in step S401 (step S406). In the confirmation process of step S406, when it is confirmed that charge is possible and content data which has not been copied yet in the recording device 600, the control unit 420 controls the recording control circuit 403 or the like. Each unit is controlled, the recording of the supplied content data is allowed (step S407), and the recording of the content data is executed (step S408).

The control unit 420 is in a waiting state until the recording of the content data on the optical disc 650 is terminated (step S409). When it is determined that the recording of the content data has been completed, the control unit 420 controls the card reader 604. The amount of the charge is subtracted from the prepaid card 660 loaded on the card, and the copy number memory 422 further records the identification information of the copied content data and information indicating one copy number (step S410). ), The processing shown in Figs. 18 and 19 ends.

In the determination processing of step S406, when imposition is impossible or the recording apparatus 600 confirms that the content data has already been copied, the control unit 420 is insufficient in balance or has exceeded the copy number. The user is notified by displaying a message on the display unit 423 (step S411), and the processing shown in Figs. 18 and 19 ends.

In step S404, the present day belongs to only the copy prohibition period, and the user is notified by displaying a message on the display unit 423 that the copying is impossible even when imposed (step S412). The process shown in FIG. 19 ends.

When it is determined in step S403 that the current day does not belong to the copy prohibition period, the control unit 420 proceeds to step S413 in FIG. 19, and determines whether the current day is within the pay period. (Step S413). In the judging process of step S413, when it is determined that the current day is within the pay period, the control unit 420 displays a message on the display unit 423 to inform the user that the copy of the content is paid. Notify it (step S414).

The control unit 420 reads the remaining balance of the prepaid card 660 loaded in the card reader 604 and determines whether or not charge is possible (step S415). In the judgment processing of step S415, when it is determined that charging is possible, the control unit 420 permits duplication, and controls each circuit unit such as the recording control circuit 403 to record the content data ( In step S416, the recording of the content data on the optical disc 650 is executed (step S417).

The control unit 420 stands by until the recording of the content data on the optical disc 650 is completed (step S418). When it is determined that the recording of the content data is finished, the control unit 420 subtracts the charge amount from the prepaid card 660 loaded in the card reader 604, and increases the number of copies of the recorded content data. When there is no information on the content data in the copy count memory, the identification information of the content data and the data representing the copy count once are associated with each other and recorded in the copy count memory 422 (step S419). The process shown in this FIG. 18, FIG. 19 is complete | finished.

In the determination processing of step S415, when it is determined that charging is impossible, the control unit 420 cannot display the content data because the display unit 423 does not perform the charge processing such as displaying a message. To the user (step S420), the processing shown in Figs. 18 and 19 ends.

In the judging process of step S413, when it is determined that the current day does not fall within the pay period, the control unit 420 performs copy limit control according to the predetermined copy limit type, but in this fourth embodiment, The control unit 420 controls each circuit unit such as the recording control circuit 403 to write the content data to the optical disc 650 (step S421), and executes the recording of the content data (step S422).

When the recording of the content data is completed, the standby state is reached (step S423). When the recording is finished, the processing shown in Figs. 18 and 19 ends. After the processing shown in Figs. 18 and 19 is finished, various instruction inputs can be made to the recording apparatus 600 including new recording instructions.

 [Reproduction Limit Control]

In this fourth embodiment, the case of performing copy limit control has been described. However, the same can be done for the reproduction limit control. That is, as shown in FIG. 19, the reproduction prohibition period designation area NP and the paid period designation area PY for reproduction are provided in the header portion HD of the content data. The provider of the content data inputs a predetermined date into the reproduction prohibition period designation area NP and the pay period designation area PY for reproduction, and records the content that accompanies the reproduction prohibition period and the reproduction pay period, such as an optical disc. Provide it on the media.

As described above, in the reproducing apparatus of the recording medium on which the contents with the reproduction prohibition period and the reproduction fee period are recorded, the reproduction restriction control in reproduction is performed in the same manner as in the case of the recording processing described with reference to Figs. Charge limitation control can be performed.

The playback apparatus in this case may have the same configuration as the playback apparatus 700 of the third embodiment shown in FIG. The copy information extracting circuit 701 extracts the reproduction prohibition period data, the reproduction fee period data, the content data identification information, and the like, and supplies the extracted information to the controller 520. The control unit 520 refers to the information in the incident information extraction circuit 701 and the current date in the clock circuit 521.

If the current day, which is the reproduction execution date, falls within the reproduction prohibition period, reproduction is prohibited. If the current day falls within the overlap period between the prohibition of reproduction and the reproduction pay period, the content data can be reproduced a predetermined number of times, subject to the charges. If the current day falls within the regeneration fee period, the regeneration is performed subject to the charges. When the current day is a date after the regeneration fee period has elapsed, a regeneration restriction in accordance with a predetermined regeneration limit type is performed.

In this way, by providing the reproduction prohibition period data and the reproduction fee period data accompanying the content data, it is possible to perform reproduction restriction control and charge restriction control of the content data.

 [Data transmission method and recording medium of the fifth embodiment]

Fig. 21 is a diagram for explaining a fifth embodiment of the data transmission method according to the present invention. In the fifth embodiment, data indicating the copy restriction type in the content data, the application period data of the copy restriction type, and the paid period data are attached to the recording medium, recorded, provided, or transmitted.

That is, in the above-described fourth embodiment, although the copy prohibition period and the paid period are provided, the period for the predetermined copy limit type is not provided, as in the copy prohibition period. In this case, the duplication limit type can be changed depending on the content data. Therefore, in this fifth embodiment, the copy restriction period is a free period.

Also in this fifth embodiment, as shown in Fig. 21, the content data is provided in a file format, and the copy restriction type area CT and the header portion HD of the content data provided in the file format are provided. A copying period designation area CP and a paying period designation area PY are provided.

In Fig. 21, the copy restriction type area CT is an area for 4 bits, and as in the case of the second embodiment described above, " no copy 1111 " and " one copy limit 1110 " , "Reproduction limit 5 (1101)", "SCMS (1100)", "Replication free (0000)" and the like, to the content device that follows the header (HD) want to be done on the recording device side A copy restriction type indicating the content of copy restriction is input on the provider side of the content data.

 The duplication limit period designation area CP is composed of a 32-bit start date area ST1 and a 32-bit end date area ED1, and is copied by data in the copy restriction type area CT. The start date and end date of the type application period are input at the provider side of the content data.

In Fig. 21, the paid period designation area PY is made up of a 32-bit start date area ST2 and a 32-bit end date area ED2, and the content data subsequent to the header part HD is copied. According to the charge, that is, the start date and end date of the paid period for allowing duplication to be paid for are input at the provider of the content data.

In this fifth embodiment, the duplication limit period is, for example, one year from August 1, 2000 AD to January 31, 2001 AD, and the paid period is, for example, AD 2001 8 It is scheduled for two years from 1st of July to 31st July, 2003. Also in this fifth embodiment, predetermined duplication limit control is performed on duplication after the paid period has elapsed.

As shown in Fig. 21, the content data in which the data indicating the copy restriction type, the copy restriction period data, and the paid period data are added to the header unit HD are the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments described above. In the same manner as in the case of the present invention, it is provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as an optical disc, transmitted through a communication network such as the Internet, or transmitted through broadcast media, and thus widely distributed to end users.

 [Recording device for copy limit control and charge limit control]

Next, as shown in FIG. 21, a description will be given of a recording apparatus which receives a supply of data indicating a copy restriction type, a copy restriction period data, and content data for which paid period data is added (added), and records this on a recording medium. do. The recording apparatus of this fifth embodiment has the same configuration as the recording apparatus 600 of the third and fourth embodiments shown in FIG. 14, and also in the recording apparatus of this fifth embodiment with reference to FIG. The recording process will be described.

In the recording apparatus 600 of the fifth embodiment, in the accompanying information separating circuit 601, as shown in FIG. 21, the copy restriction type area CT of the header portion HD of the content data in the file format. In addition, the data of the restriction period of the replication limit period designation area (CP), the data of the period of payment of the fee period designation area (PY), the identification information of the content data, and the like are extracted and supplied to the controller 420.

In this manner, the information extracted in the incident information separation circuit 601 of the recording apparatus 600 of the fifth embodiment is extracted in the incident information separation circuit 601 of the recording apparatuses of the third and fourth embodiments. Unlike the information, the processing performed by the control unit 420 which receives the information from the incidental information separating circuit 601 is also different from the recording apparatus of the third and fourth embodiments.

 [Recording Process in Recording Device of Fifth Embodiment]

22 and 23 are flowcharts for explaining the recording process performed in the recording apparatus 600 of the fifth embodiment. When a recording execution instruction from a user is input through the key operation unit 424 of the recording apparatus 600, and content data is supplied to the recording apparatus 600 through the input terminal 401, the control unit of the recording apparatus 600 is controlled. 420 executes the processes shown in FIGS. 22 and 23.

First, the control unit 420 stores the information from the side information separation circuit 601, that is, the copy restriction period data, the paid period data, and the identification information of the content data indicating the period of copying restriction according to the data indicating the copy restriction type. Reference is made (step S501). Next, the control unit 420 refers to the current day of the clock circuit 421 (step S502).

The control unit 420 determines whether or not the current day falls within the duplication limit period from the information referred to in step S502 and the current day referred to in step S502 (step S503). In the judging process of step S503, when it is determined that the current day falls within the duplication limit period, the control unit 420 recognizes data indicating the duplication limit type from the incidental information separating circuit 601 (step S503). S504), it is judged whether or not the data indicating the duplication restriction type is copy duplication prohibited (step S505).

In the judgment processing of step S505, when it is determined that duplication is not prohibited, the control unit 420 performs duplication limit control in accordance with the duplication limit type recognized in step S504, and causes duplication (step S506). ).

That is, the process of step S506 refers to the information of the copy count memory 422 when the copy limit type recognized in step S504 is the copy count limit, and performs copying if the copy count is not over. When over, copy is prohibited. When the copy is free, the copy is executed without any restriction. When the copy restriction type is instructed to comply with the SCMS copy limit control method, copy limit control is performed based on information required for the SCMS copy limit control method.

The control unit 420 enters the standby state until the copying ends (step S507). When the copying ends, the control unit 420 ends the processing shown in Figs. 22 and 23.

In the judging process of step S505, when it is determined that the duplication limit type recognized in step S504 indicates the duplication prohibition, the control unit 420 controls the recording control circuit 403 or the like, and Copying of the content data is prohibited (step S508). The processing in step S508 also includes a process of notifying the user by a message notification to the display unit 423 that the data cannot be copied because it is content data during the copy prohibition period.

In the determination processing of step S503, when it is determined that the current day does not fall within the duplication limit period, the processing proceeds to step S509 shown in FIG. 23, and the control unit 420 refers to step S501. From the paid period data and the current date referenced in step S502, it is determined whether or not the current date falls within the paid period (step S509).

In step S509, when it is determined that the current day is within the pay period, the duplication of the content data is notified to the user by displaying a message on the display unit 423 that it is paid (step S510). The control unit 420 then checks the balance of the prepaid amount of the prepaid loaded on the card reader 604, and determines whether or not charge is possible (step S511).

In the judgment processing of step S511, when it is determined that charging is possible, the control unit 420 permits the duplication, controls each unit such as the recording control circuit 403 (step S512), and records the content data. Is executed (step S513). In the waiting state until recording ends (step S514), when the recording ends, the charge processing is executed (step S515), after which the processing shown in Figs. 22 and 23 ends.

The charge processing in step S515 is a process of subtracting a predetermined charge amount from the balance of the prepaid card 660 loaded in the card reader 604. If the charge processing cannot be performed by removing the prepaid card or the like, the charge processing is not performed. Thus, the processing of Figs. 22 and 23 is not terminated until the charge processing is normally completed. Cannot be used.

 In the judgment processing at step S511, if it is determined that charging is not possible, the control unit 420 disables duplication, and "no charge processing is possible." Load a predetermined prepaid card ”or the like on the display unit 423 (step S516), and the processing shown in Figs. 22 and 23 ends.

In the judging process of step S509, when the current day does not belong to the pay period, that is, the date after the pay period has elapsed, a predetermined copy restriction is performed to perform the recording process of the content data. (Step S518), the processing shown in Figs. 22 and 23 is then terminated.

The processing in step S517 refers to the information of the copy count memory 422 when the predetermined copy limit type is the copy count limit, and executes copying if the copy count is not over, but if it is over, the copy is performed. Prohibit When copy is free, the copy is executed without any restriction. When the copy restriction type is instructed to comply with the SCMS copy limit control method, copy limit control is performed based on information required for the SCMS copy limit control method.

 [Reproduction Limit Control]

In this fifth embodiment, the case of performing copy restriction control has been described. However, the same can be done for the reproduction limit control. That is, as shown in Fig. 24, in the header portion HD of the content data to be provided in a file format, the reproduction restriction type area CT, the reproduction restriction period designation area PP, and the paid period designation area PY Install).

On the provider side of the content data, a predetermined reproduction restriction type is input in the reproduction restriction type area CT, a predetermined date is input in the reproduction restriction period designation area PP and the paid period designation area PY. The contents data obtained by adding the reproduction restriction type, the reproduction restriction period, and the reproduction fee period are recorded on the recording medium such as an optical disc and provided.

As described above, in the reproducing apparatus of the recording medium on which the reproduction data of the reproduction limit type, the reproduction restriction period, and the reproduction charge period are recorded, the same as in the case of the recording processing described with reference to Figs. In this way, the reproduction limit control and the charge limit control can be performed.

The playback apparatus in this case may have the same configuration as the playback apparatus 700 of the third and fourth embodiments shown in FIG. When the playback instruction is input to the playback apparatus 700 and the playback instruction is input through the key operation section 524, the incident information extraction circuit 701 restricts playback in the header section HD of the content data supplied thereto. Data indicating the type, reproduction limit period data, reproduction fee period data, content data identification information, and the like are extracted and supplied to the controller 520. The controller 520 refers to the information from the incidental information extraction circuit 701 and also refers to the current date provided by the clock circuit 521.

When the current day, which is the reproduction execution date, belongs to the reproduction restriction period, reproduction restriction control is performed in accordance with data indicating the reproduction restriction type input to the reproduction restriction type area of the header unit HD. In other words, when the data indicating the reproduction restriction type indicates the reproduction prohibition, reproduction is disabled and the reproduction control unit 700 does not output the content data by controlling the reproduction control circuit 508 or the like.

When the data indicating the reproduction limit type indicates that the reproduction count is to be limited, the reproduction count memory 522 is referred to and the reproduction count is exceeded based on the identification information of the content data to be used for reproduction. If not, playback is permitted, and the playback control circuit 508 or the like is controlled to output content data from the playback apparatus 700. If the playback frequency is exceeded, playback is disabled and playback control circuit 508 ) Does not output the content data from the playback apparatus 700.

When the data indicating the reproduction restriction type indicates that the reproduction is free, the reproduction of the content data is permitted without any restriction, and the reproduction data 700 outputs the content data. If the data indicating the reproduction restriction type indicates that the reproduction restriction method is to be followed, the reproduction restriction method is used.

When the current day does not fall within the playback limit period, it is determined whether the current day falls within the paid period, and when it is determined that it falls within the paid period, the balance of the prepaid card 730 loaded in the card reader 704 is determined. If playback is allowed, playback is allowed only when charging is allowed, and playback is performed. If charging is not possible, playback is disabled and playback is not performed. After the reproduction ends, the charge processing for subtracting the balance from the prepaid card 730 loaded in the card reader 703 is performed by itself.

If the current day does not fall within the pay period, playback limit control according to the predetermined playback limit type is performed, and playback is executed.

In this way, by providing the data indicating the reproduction restriction type, the reproduction restriction period data, and the reproduction fee period data accompanying the content data, in the reproduction restriction period, for example, arbitrary reproduction restriction control can be performed for each content data. Can be.

 [Sixth Embodiment]

    [Data transmission method and recording medium of the sixth embodiment]

Fig. 25 is a diagram for explaining a sixth embodiment of the data transmission method according to the present invention. In the sixth embodiment, one piece of free period data and a plurality of different periods of paid data are attached to the content data, recorded on a recording medium, provided, or transmitted.

Also in this sixth embodiment, as shown in Fig. 25, the content data is provided in a file format, and the free period designation area NP is provided in the header portion HD of the content data provided in the file format. The paid period A designated area PY1 and the paid period B designated area PY2 are provided.

The free period designation area NP is composed of a 32-bit start date area ST1 and a 32-bit end date area ED1, and it is possible to freely copy content data following the header part HD. The start date and end date of the free period enabled are entered.

The paid period A designation area PY1 is composed of a 32-bit start date area ST2 and a 32-bit end date area ED2, and conditions for imposing duplication of content data following the header part HD are imposed. According to the charge, the start date and the end date of the paid period A becomes possible.

The paid period B designation area PY2 is composed of a 32-bit start date area ST3 and a 32-bit end date area ED3. According to the imposition, the start date and the end date of the paid period B enabled are entered.

In this sixth embodiment, the free period is, for example, 10 days from August 1, 2000 to August 10, AD 2000. During this period, the reproduction or reproduction of audio data as content data is performed. This is the period during which you can do it as a fee.

The paid period A is, for example, about one year from August 11, 2000 to July 31, 2001. In this period, the reproduction (audio data purchase) of audio data for one piece of music as content data can be performed for 200 yen, and the reproduction (listening of audio data) for one piece of music as content data is performed. It is period to be able to perform for 20 yen.

The paid period B is, for example, after August 1, 2001 AD. In this period, the reproduction (audio data purchase) of audio data for one piece of music as content data can be performed for 100 yen, and the reproduction (listening of audio data) for audio data for one piece of music as content data is performed. It is period to be able to perform for 10 yen.

As shown in Fig. 25, the content data in which the data indicating the copy restriction type, the copy restriction period data, and the paid period data are added to the header unit HD are described in the above-mentioned first, second, third, fourth, and fourth. As in the case of the fifth embodiment, it is recorded and provided on a recording medium such as an optical disc, or transmitted through a communication network such as the Internet, or transmitted through a broadcast media, thereby being widely distributed (sold) to end users.

In this way, by providing two paid periods having different free periods and the charged amount, the content data can be spread in the free period, and the sales volume of the content data in the paid period A can be extended, At the point where the distribution is promoted to some extent, the amount of the charge can be reduced, so that the sales of the content data can be continued.

Therefore, the content data can be sold in a new aspect, and the amount of the charge is different for the purchaser of the content data depending on the time of acquiring the content data. I can improve a feeling.

 [Recording device for copy limit control and charge limit control]

Next, as shown in Fig. 25, the supply of the content data such that the free period data indicating the free period, the paid period A data indicating the paid period A, and the paid period B data indicating the paid period B are received (added) is received. Next, a recording apparatus for recording this on a recording medium will be described. The recording apparatus of this sixth embodiment has the same configuration as the recording apparatus 600 of the third, fourth, and fifth embodiments shown in FIG. 14, and with reference to FIG. 14, the recording of this seventh embodiment is described. The recording process in the apparatus will be described.

In the recording apparatus 600 of the sixth embodiment, in the accompanying information separating circuit 601, as shown in FIG. 25, the free period designating area NP of the header portion HD of the content data in the file format. The free period data, the paid period A data of the paid period A designated area PY1, the paid period B data of the free period B designated area PY2, and identification information of the content data are extracted and supplied to the controller 420.

In this way, the information extracted in the incident information separation circuit 601 of the recording apparatus 600 of the sixth embodiment is transferred to the incident information separation circuit 601 of the recording apparatuses of the third, fourth, and fifth embodiments. Unlike the information extracted in the above, the processing performed by the control unit 420 which receives the information from the incidental information separating circuit 601 is also different from the recording apparatus of the third, fourth, and fifth embodiments.                 

 [Recording Process in the Recording Apparatus of the Sixth Embodiment]

26 and 27 are flowcharts for explaining the recording process performed in the recording apparatus 600 of the sixth embodiment. When a recording execution instruction from a user is input through a key operation unit (not shown) of the recording apparatus 600, and content data is supplied to the recording apparatus 600 through the input terminal 401, the control unit of the recording apparatus 600 ( 420 executes the processes shown in FIGS. 26 and 27.

First, the controller 420 refers to the information from the incidental information separating circuit 601, that is, the identification information of the free period data, the paid period A data, the paid period B data, and the content data (step S601). Next, the control unit 420 refers to the current day of the clock circuit 421 (step S602).

The control unit 420 determines whether the current day falls within the free period from the free period data referred to in step S601 and the current date referenced in step S602 (step S603). In the judging process of step S603, when it is determined that the current day falls within the free period, the control unit 420 permits duplication (step S604), and controls each part of the recording control circuit 403 and the like. Then, the recording process of the content data is executed (step S605).

The control unit 420 enters the standby state until the recording process of the content data ends (step S606). When the recording process ends, the control unit 420 ends the processing shown in FIGS. 26 and 27. FIG.

In the judging process of step S603, when it is determined that the current day does not belong to the free period, the control unit 420 controls the pay period A data referred to in step S601 and the current day referred to in step S602. It is determined whether or not the current day falls within the paid period A (step S607).

In the judgment processing of step S607, if it is determined that the fee is within the paid period A, the duplication of the content data is paid, and in this example, the user is notified by displaying a message on the display unit 423 for 200 yen. (Step S608). The control unit 420 checks the remaining balance of the prepaid amount of the prepaid loaded in the card reader 604, and determines whether or not charge is possible (step S609).

In the judgment processing of step S609, when it is determined that charging is possible, the control unit 420 permits duplication (step S610), controls each unit such as the recording control circuit 403 to record the content data. (Step S611). In the waiting state until the recording process ends (step S612), when the recording process ends, the charge processing in the pay period A is executed (step S613).

The charge processing in step S613 is a process of subtracting a predetermined charge amount from the balance of the prepaid card 660 loaded in the card reader 604. If the charge processing cannot be performed because the prepaid card is detached, the processing of Figs. 26 and 27 is not terminated until the end of the charging processing. Therefore, the duplicated content data can be used. Can not. After the charging process of step S613, the process shown in this FIG. 26, FIG. 27 is complete | finished.

In the determination processing of step S607, when it is determined that the current day does not belong to the paid period A, the processing proceeds to the processing of step S614 shown in FIG. 27, and the control unit 420 refers to the step S601. From the paid period B data and the current day referenced in step S602, it is determined whether or not the current day falls within the paid period B (step S614).

In step S614, when it is determined that the current day belongs to the paid period B, the duplication of the content data is paid. In this example, the user displays a message on the display unit 423 such as 100 yen. Is notified (step S615). The control unit 420 then checks the balance of the prepaid amount of the prepaid loaded on the card reader 604, and determines whether or not charge is possible (step S616).

In the judgment processing of step S616, when it is determined that charging is possible, the control unit 420 permits duplication (step S617), controls each unit of the recording control circuit 403 and the like to record the content data. (Step S618), the standby state is reached until the recording process ends (step S619). When the recording process ends, the charge processing in the pay period B is executed (step S620). ), The charge processing is the same processing as that of step S613, and the charge amount is only different from that of step S613. After the charging process of this step S620, the process shown in this FIG. 26, FIG. 27 is complete | finished.

In the judging process of step S614, when the current day does not belong to the paid period B, that is, the date after the paid period B has elapsed, predetermined copy limit control is performed so that the content data recording process is performed. (Step S621), then the processing shown in FIG. 26, FIG. 27 is complete | finished.                 

In addition, the process of step S621 prohibits duplication when the predetermined duplication restriction type is duplication prohibition. When the predetermined copy limit type is the copy count limit, the information in the copy count memory 422 is referred to. If copy count is exceeded, copy is executed if the copy count is exceeded.

When the copy is free, the copy is executed without any restriction. When the copy restriction type is instructed to comply with the SCMS copy limit control method, copy limit control is performed based on information required for the SCMS copy limit control method.

 [Reproduction Limit Control]

Also in this sixth embodiment, the reproduction limit control can be performed in the same manner as in the case of the copy limit control. That is, the free period data of the free period designation area NP of the header unit HD shown in FIG. 25, the paid period A data of the paid period A designated area PY1, and the paid period B data of the paid period B designated area are reproduced. It describes as.

28 and 29 are flowcharts for explaining processing in the case of reproducing content data on a recording medium on which content data accompanying the data representing the free period, the paid period A, and the paid period B for reproduction are recorded. The reproducing apparatus which executes the processes shown in Figs. 28 and 29 may have the same configuration as the reproducing apparatus 700 of the third, fourth and fifth embodiments shown in Fig. 16.

If the playback apparatus 700 is to play back the playback instruction input via the key operation section 524, the incident information extraction circuit 701 restricts playback in the header section HD of the content data supplied thereto. Data indicating the type, reproduction limitation period data, reproduction fee period data, identification information of the content data, and the like are extracted and supplied to the controller 520.

First, the controller 520 refers to the information from the incidental information separating circuit 701, that is, the free period data, the paid period A data, and the identification information of the content data (step S701). Next, the control unit 520 refers to the current day of the clock circuit 521 (step S702).

The control unit 520 determines whether or not the current day falls within the free period, based on the free period data referred to in step S701 and the current date referenced in step S702 (step S703). In the judging process of step S703, when it is determined that the current day falls within the free period, the control unit 520 permits the reproduction (step S704), and controls each part of the reproduction limiting circuit 508 and the like. Then, the reproduction processing of the content data is executed (step S705).

The control unit 520 enters the standby state until the reproduction processing of the content data ends (step S706), and when the reproduction processing ends, the processing shown in Figs. 28 and 29 ends.

In the determination processing of step S703, when it is determined that the current day does not fall within the free period, the control unit 520 determines whether the paid period A data referred to in step S701 and the current day referred to in step S702, It is determined whether the current day falls within the paid period A (step S707).

In the judgment processing of step S707, when it is determined that the fee is within the paid period A, the reproduction of the content data is charged, and in this example, a message is displayed on the display unit 423 for 20 yen in reproduction. The user is notified (step S708). The control unit 520 checks the balance of the prepaid amount of the prepaid card 730 loaded in the card reader 703, and determines whether or not charge is possible (step S709).

In the judgment processing of step S709, when it is determined that charging is possible, the control unit 520 permits reproduction (step S710), controls each unit such as the reproduction limiting circuit 508, and reproduces the content data. (Step S711). In the waiting state until the reproduction processing ends (step S712), when the reproduction processing ends, the charge processing in the pay period A is executed (step S713).

The charge processing in step S713 is a process of subtracting a predetermined charge amount (20 yen in this example) from the balance of the prepaid card 730 loaded in the card reader 703. Also, if the charge processing cannot be performed by removing the prepaid card, the charge processing is not performed. Thus, the processing of Figs. 28 and 29 is not completed until the charge processing is completed. Data is not available. After the charging process of step S713, the process shown in this FIG. 28, FIG. 29 is complete | finished.

In the determination processing of step S707, when it is determined that the current day does not belong to the paid period A, the processing proceeds to the processing of step S714 shown in FIG. 29, and the control unit 420 refers to the step S701. From the paid period B data and the current day referenced in step S702, it is determined whether or not the current day falls within the paid period B (step S714).                 

In step S714, when it is determined that the current day belongs to the paid period B, the reproduction of the content data is paid. In this example, a message is displayed on the display unit 423 for 10 yen in reproduction. The user is notified (step S715). The control unit 420 checks the balance of the prepaid amount of the prepaid card 730 loaded in the card reader 703, and determines whether or not charge is possible (step S716).

In the determination processing of step S716, when it is determined that charging is possible, the control unit 520 permits reproduction (step S717), controls each unit such as the reproduction limiting circuit 508, and reproduces the content data. Is executed (step S718). A standby state is reached until the reproduction processing ends (step S719). When the reproduction processing ends, the charging process in the pay period B is executed (step S720). The charging process of this step S720 is the same process as the process of step S713, and only the charge amount differs from the process of step S713. After the charging process of this step S720, the process shown in this FIG. 28, FIG. 29 is complete | finished.

In the determination processing of step S714, when the current date does not belong to the paid period B, that is, the date after the paid period B has elapsed, predetermined reproduction limit control is performed to perform the reproduction process of the content data. The process shown in FIG. 28, FIG. 29 is complete | finished after that (step S721).

In addition, the process of step S721 prohibits reproduction when the predetermined reproduction restriction type is prohibited from reproduction. When the predetermined playback limit type is the playback count limit, the information in the playback count memory 522 is referred to. If the playback limit is exceeded, playback is performed if the playback count is not exceeded.

When the playback restriction type is free playback, playback is performed without any restriction. When the reproduction restriction type indicates that the reproduction restriction type is in accordance with another reproduction restriction control method, reproduction restriction control is performed based on information required for the reproduction restriction control method.

In this way, in this sixth embodiment, a plurality of pay periods can be set for one piece of content data, and the charges for duplication and reproduction can be varied in each pay period.

In the sixth embodiment, a free period is also set to promote the dissemination of content data, but it is not necessary to set the free period. Multiple pay periods may be set. In this way, the charge amount can be different for each of a plurality of pay periods, so that a content providing method that has not been known in the past can be realized, such as lowering the charge amount depending on the time after the content data is put into the market.

In this sixth embodiment, although the charge amount of each pay period was explained as having been predetermined, it is not limited to this. For example, the data indicating the amount of charge for each pay period may be attached to the content data and transmitted. Since the recording apparatus and the reproducing apparatus have a communication interface, it is of course possible to provide each device with data representing the charge amount in each pay period through a communication network such as the Internet.

The paid period accompanying the content data is not limited to two. Not to mention one good, three, four, five… As described above, it is of course possible to set a plurality of pay periods.

Also, as can be seen from the first to sixth embodiments described above, by setting an application period of at least one copy restriction type for the content data, the provider of the content data can have a desired period in the desired period. Copy restriction control can also be performed.

With respect to the application period data of the copy restriction type, the copy restriction type may be determined in advance (assigned) according to the accompanying position, or the data representing the copy restriction type may be accompanied. In addition, the period for allocating the copy restriction type in advance according to the accompanying position may be used together with the period for accommodating data representing the copy restriction type.

Similarly, by setting the application period of one or more charge restriction types for the content data, the desired charge restriction control can be performed in the desired period on the provider side of the content data.

In the case of the charge restriction type, when the user can comply with the charge amount or the charge, the charge restriction type indicating the copy restriction type when the recording (replication) of the content data is allowed is determined in advance (assigned). The data indicating the charge restriction type may be accompanied. The period in which the charge restriction type is assigned in advance according to the attached position and the period in which data indicating the charge restriction type are appended may be used together.

One or more content data may be associated with the application period of the copy restriction type and the application period of the charge restriction type. Also in this case, for the application period data of the copy limit type or the charge limit type, the copy limit type or the charge limit type may be determined (assigned) in advance according to the attached position, and the copy limit type may be indicated. The data indicating the data or the charge restriction type may be accompanied. The period of pre-allocating the copy restriction type or the charge restriction type in accordance with the attached position, and the period of appending the data indicating the copy restriction type or the charge restriction type may be used together.

For the content data, two or more free periods may be set, or two or more paid periods may be set. As a free period, it is also possible to add a plurality of pieces of content data. It is of course also possible to provide a plurality of free and paid periods for the content data.

In the above-described embodiment, when a plurality of application periods are appended to the content data, the respective periods are set as periods immediately preceding or immediately after, but not limited to this. Each period can also be set as a sparse period.

The reproduction restriction type or charge restriction type outside each application period is determined in advance, or the data indicating the reproduction restriction type or the charge restriction type outside the application period is appended to the content data so that it can Reproduction restrictions or charge restrictions can also be imposed on the use of content data.

In this way, the application period of the copy restriction type, the application period of the charge restriction type, the free period, the paid period, etc. may be combined in various ways, and the copy restriction type or the charge restriction type is pre-assigned in each period in accordance with the attached position, or In each period, data indicating the copy restriction type or data indicating the charge restriction type can be added, and copy control or charge control for the content data can be performed according to the intention of the user of the content data.

Since it is not necessary to rewrite each application period data to accompany the content data, it is not always a requirement to have a communication function in the recording device or the playback device. However, in the case where the communication function is provided, the charge function may be updated with the charge center using the communication function. Also in this case, the rewriting of the application period data is not necessary as described above.

In the above embodiment, the case where the content data is transmitted in the file format is taken as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, when content data is recorded and provided on a CD or the like, the content is added by adding each application period data, data indicating a copy restriction type, data indicating a charge restriction type, and the like to the lead-in area or subcode of the CD. Can be appended to the data.

By using information that accompanies new content data, such as data for each application period, data indicating a copy restriction type, and data indicating a charge restriction type, as an encryption key, and encrypting the content data and transmitting it, effective use of the content data can be effectively prevented. By preventing and accommodating the content data, copying restrictions or charge restrictions can be imposed according to the intention of the provider of the content data.

The identification information of the content data is not limited to the above-described ISRC. As long as it is the information which can identify each content data individually, it can use it.

The clock circuit is not limited to the so-called radio clock described above. By the end user, various types of clock circuits in which the time cannot be changed can be used.

In the above embodiment, the case where an optical disc such as a CD is used as the recording medium has been described as an example, but the recording medium is not limited to the optical disc.

Various types of recording media such as magneto-optical recording media, magnetic recording media, semiconductor memories, and the like can be used. Therefore, the present invention can be applied to a recording apparatus and a reproduction apparatus using these recording media.

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to apply a new realization method of copy restriction control or charge restriction control of content data. In the device on the user side of the content data, it is possible to more reliably and simply prevent the illegal use of the content data or to perform the charge processing.

In addition, at the beginning of the release of the content data, the original copy is prohibited, the original is kept, and after a predetermined period of time, the restrictions on the copy of the content data are alleviated. For example, the profits of both the provider of the content data and the user of the content data can be improved.                 

In addition, immediately after the introduction of the content data to the market, it is possible to realize a new mode of providing content data such as prohibiting the copying of the content data and then permitting the copying of the content data on condition of charge.

In addition, the copy restriction and the charge restriction over time may be set in advance by the provider of the content.

Claims (140)

delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete Data relating to the reproduction or reproduction restriction of the contents data from the supplied contents data, data relating to the first period relating to the period during which the contents data is copied or reproduced free of charge, and reproduction or charge for a fee; Extract additional data including additional data including data relating to a second period relating to a period during which reproduction is performed; Comparing the date to be copied or reproduced with the data relating to the first period and the data relating to the second period, When the comparison result indicates that the date to which the copy or reproduction is to be made is within a period set by the data relating to the first period, the content data is copied or reproduced. And when the comparison result indicates that the date to which the duplication or reproduction is to be performed is within a period set by the data relating to the second period, discriminating whether or not charge is possible. The method of claim 36, The method is a method for copying or reproducing content data, wherein when the charge is determined to be possible, the content data is copied or reproduced, and the charge is performed. The method of claim 37, wherein And the method terminates an operation relating to the duplication or reproduction of the contents data when it is determined that the charge is impossible. The method of claim 36, In the method, when it is determined that the date to be copied or reproduced is outside the period set by the data relating to the first period, the date to be copied or reproduced is stored in the data relating to the second period. And copying or reproducing the content data, characterized in that it is determined whether or not it is within a set period. The method of claim 39, The method is characterized in that copying or reproducing the content data is prohibited when it is determined that the date to which the copying or reproducing is to be performed is outside the period set by the data relating to the second period. Way. The method of claim 36, The method is characterized in that the user is notified that duplication or reproduction of the content data is paid when it is determined that the date to which the duplication or reproduction is to be performed is within a period set by the data relating to the second period. How to copy or reproduce data. Data related to the reproduction or reproduction restriction of the content data, data relating to a first period relating to a period for which the reproduction or reproduction of the content data is prohibited, and reproduction or reproduction for a fee; Extract additional data including additional data including data relating to a second period relating to a period during which reproduction is performed; Comparing the date to be copied or reproduced with the data relating to the first period and the data relating to the second period, When the comparison result indicates that the date to which the copy or reproduction is to be performed is within a period set by the data relating to the first period, the copy or reproduction of the content data is prohibited, And when the comparison result indicates that the date to which copying or reproduction is to be made is within a period set by the data relating to the second period, whether or not charge is possible is determined. . The method of claim 42, wherein And if it is determined that the charging is possible, the method copies or reproduces the content data, and performs charging. The method of claim 43, And if it is determined that the charging is impossible, the operation relating to the duplication or reproduction of the contents data is terminated. The method of claim 42, wherein In the method, when it is determined that the date to be copied or reproduced is outside the period set by the data relating to the first period, the date to be copied or reproduced is determined by the data relating to the second period. A method of copying or playing back content data, characterized in that it is determined whether or not it is within a set period. The method of claim 45, The method is characterized in that duplication or reproduction of the content data is prohibited when it is determined that the date to which the duplication or reproduction is to be performed is out of the period set by the data relating to the second period. How to play. The method of claim 42, wherein When the date to which the copy or reproduction is to be performed is within the period set by the data relating to the first period and is determined to be within the period set by the data relating to the second period, A method of copying or playing back content data, characterized in that it is notified that copying or playing back content data is possible. The method of claim 47, And the method determines whether or not charging is possible after the notification, and if it is determined that charging is possible, duplicates or plays back content data, and performs charging. The method of claim 42, wherein The method is characterized in that the user is notified that the copy or reproduction of the content data is paid when it is determined that the date to which the copy or reproduction is to be performed is within the period set as the data relating to the second period. Method of copying or reproducing. Data relating to the reproduction or reproduction restriction of the content data, data relating to a first period relating to a period for which the reproduction or reproduction of the content data is prohibited, and reproduction or reproduction for a fee; Reproducing, extracting additional data including additional data including data relating to a second period in which a period partially overlapping with the period set as data relating to the first period is extracted, Comparing the date to be copied or reproduced with the data relating to the first period and the data relating to the second period, When the comparison result indicates that the date to which the copy or reproduction is to be performed is within a period set by the data relating to the first period, the copy or reproduction of the content data is prohibited, And when the comparison result indicates that the date to which the duplication or reproduction is to be performed is within a period set by the data relating to the second period, discriminating whether or not charge is possible. 51. The method of claim 50, In the method, when it is determined that the date to be copied or reproduced is outside the period set by the data relating to the first period, the date to be copied or reproduced is data related to the second period. And determining whether or not it is within a period set by the method. The method of claim 51, In the method, when it is determined that the date to which the duplication or reproduction is to be performed is outside the period set by the data relating to the second period, duplication or reproduction of the contents data is prohibited. Or playback method. 51. The method of claim 50, In the method, when it is determined that the date to which the copy or reproduction is to be performed is a period which overlaps with the period set by the data relating to the data relating to the first period within the period set by the data relating to the second period, A method of copying or playing back content data, wherein the user is notified that the content data can be copied or played back for a fee. The method of claim 53, And the method determines whether or not charging is possible after the notification, and if it is determined that charging is possible, charging is performed without copying or playing back the content data. 51. The method of claim 50, The method is characterized in that the user is notified that duplication or reproduction of the content data is paid when it is determined that the date to which the duplication or reproduction is to be performed is within a period set by the data relating to the second period. How to copy or reproduce data. 51. The method of claim 50, And if it is determined that the charging is possible, the method copies or reproduces the content data, and performs charging. 51. The method of claim 50, And if it is determined that the charging is impossible, the operation relating to the duplication or reproduction of the contents data is terminated. Data related to the reproduction or reproduction restriction of the contents data from the supplied contents data and data relating to the first period regarding the period during which the contents data is copied or reproduced free of charge and reproduction or reproduction for a fee Extracting additional data including data relating to a second period relating to a period for performing the data and additional data including data relating to a third period relating to a period for copying or reproducing for a fee; Comparing the date to be copied or reproduced with the data relating to the first period, the data relating to the second period, and the data relating to the third period, When the comparison result indicates that the date to which the copy or reproduction is to be made is within a period set by the data relating to the first period, the content data is copied or reproduced. When the comparison result indicates that the date to which the duplication or reproduction is to be performed is within a period set by the data relating to the second or third period, it is determined whether or not charge is possible. Or playback method. The method of claim 58, The method determines whether or not a date to which the content data is to be copied or reproduced is a period set by the data relating to the second period, and is determined to be within a period set by the data relating to the second period. And copying or reproducing the content data, and imposing based on a charging condition within a period set by the data relating to the second period. The method of claim 59, The method determines whether or not the date to which the content data is to be copied or reproduced is outside the period set by the data relating to the second period, or not. And if it is determined that the data is within the period set by the data relating to the third period, copying or reproducing the content data, and charging based on the charge condition within the period set by the data relating to the third period. A method of copying or playing back content data. The method of claim 60, The method is characterized in that the duplication or reproduction of the content data is prohibited when the date to which the duplication or reproduction is to be made is outside the period set by the data relating to the third period. How to play. The method of claim 58, And if it is determined that the charging is impossible, the operation relating to the duplication or reproduction of the contents data is terminated. The method of claim 58, The method is characterized in that the user is notified that duplication or reproduction of the content data is charged when it is determined that the date to which the duplication or reproduction is to be within a period set by the data relating to the second or third period. A method of copying or playing back content data. From the supplied content data, additional data is added to the content data and includes additional data relating to the reproduction or restriction of reproduction of the content data and additional data relating to a period in which a condition relating to reproduction of at least one of the content data is set. and, Comparing the date to be replicated with the period set by the data relating to the period of the extracted additional data, And when the comparison result indicates that the date to which the copying is to be made is within a period set by the data relating to the period, the copying operation of the content data is prohibited. The data relating to the period has a first period data and a second period data, and the data relating to the duplication limit includes a first duplication relating to a duplication limit of the content data in a period set as the first period data. Restriction data and second copy restriction data relating to a copy restriction of the content data in a period set as the second period data; If it is determined whether the date to be copied is within the period set by the first period data, and when it is determined that the date to be copied is within the period set by the first period data, the first copy limit is limited. And duplicating the content data based on the data. delete delete delete delete delete delete The method of claim 64, wherein The method determines whether or not the date to be copied is within the period set to the second period data when it is determined that the date to be copied is outside the period set to the first period data. And when it is determined that a date to be copied is within a period set as the second period data, the copying operation of the content data is controlled based on the second copy restriction data. The method of claim 64, wherein In the period set as the first period data, copying of the content data is prohibited, and in the period set as the second period data, the content data can be copied for a fee. When the date to which the copying is to be made is determined to be within a period set by the data relating to the first period and also within a period set by the data relating to the second period, And duplicating the content data, wherein the content data is copied. The method of claim 72, And the method determines whether or not charging is possible after the notification, and if it is determined that charging is possible, copying of the contents data is performed, and charging is performed. The method of claim 64, wherein The data relating to the period has first period data relating to a period during which the content data can be reproduced free of charge, and second period data relating to a period during which the content data can be copied for a fee, The method determines whether or not the date to be copied is within the period set by the first period data, and when it is determined that the date to be copied is within the period set by the first period data, And duplicating the content data for free. The method of claim 74, wherein The method determines whether or not the date to be replicated is within the period set to the second period data when it is determined that the date to be copied is outside the period set to the first period data. And duplicating the content data for a fee if it is determined that the time period is set as the second period data. 76. The method of claim 75 wherein The method according to claim 1, wherein the user is notified that the duplication of the contents data is paid. 76. The method of claim 75 wherein The method is characterized in that it is determined whether or not charging is possible, and when it is determined that charging is possible, copying of the content data is performed, and charging is performed. 78. The method of claim 77 wherein And if it is determined that charging is impossible, the method of duplicating the content data is terminated. An extraction unit for extracting additional data from the supplied content data, the additional data including data relating to the recording restriction of the content data and additional data relating to a period in which a condition relating to the recording of the content data is set; An encoding processing unit which encodes the supplied content data; A recording section for recording the output from the encoding processing section; Has a clock circuit section and compares the period set by the data relating to the period of the additional data extracted by said extracting section with the date to which recording from the clock circuit section is to be performed, and said comparison result intends to perform the recording. When the date to be indicated is within the period set by the period data, the control unit controls a recording operation of the content data based on the data relating to the recording restriction of the additional data. Device. The method of claim 79, The control unit records the content data when the comparison result indicates that the date to which the recording is to be made is within a period set by the data relating to the period. Device. The method of claim 80, And when it is determined that the date to which the recording is to be made is out of the period set by the data relating to the period, the controller controls the recording operation of the content data based on the data relating to the recording restriction. A recording device for content data. 82. The method of claim 81 wherein And the control unit performs a recording operation of the content data when the data relating to the recording restriction permits the recording of the content data. 83. The method of claim 82, The apparatus further includes a generation unit for generating data relating to a recording restriction relating to the prohibition of recording, wherein the control unit adds new additional data generated by the generation unit to the recorded content data. Logger. 82. The method of claim 81 wherein The control unit further includes a memory unit for storing the number of times of recording of the content data, and the control unit is based on the data read out from the memory unit when the data concerning the recording restriction permits the recording of the content data. To determine whether or not the number of recordings specified by the data relating to the recording limit is less than or equal to, and when it is determined that the number of recordings is less than or equal to the prescribed number of recordings, recording of the content data is executed. Device. 85. The method of claim 84, And the controller terminates the recording operation of the content data when the prescribed number of times of recording is exceeded. The method of claim 79, The data relating to the period has a first period data and a second period data, and the data relating to the recording restriction includes a first recording relating to the recording restriction of the content data in the period set as the first period data. Restriction data and second recording restriction data relating to a recording restriction of the content data in a period set as the second period data; The control unit determines whether the date to be recorded is within the period set by the first period data, and when it is determined that the date to be recorded is within the period set by the first period data, And the recording operation of the content data is controlled based on the first recording restriction data. 87. The method of claim 86, If it is determined that the date to which the recording is to be made is outside the period set as the first period data, the controller determines whether or not the date to be recorded is within the period set to the second period data. And when it is determined that the date to which the recording is to be made is within a period set as the second period data, recording the content data according to the second recording restriction data. Device. 87. The method of claim 86, In the period set as the first period data, the recording of the content data is prohibited, and in the period set as the second period data, the content data can be recorded for a fee. The control unit, when it is determined that the date to which the recording is to be made is within a period set by the data relating to the first period and also within a period set by the data relating to the second period, the content is charged to the user for the content. And notifying that the data can be recorded. 89. The method of claim 88 wherein And the apparatus further comprises a display section on which display of the meaning that the recording of the contents data is paid is performed. 89. The method of claim 88 wherein And the controller determines whether or not charging is possible after the notification, and if charging is determined, charging is performed without recording the content data. The method of claim 79, The data relating to the period has first period data relating to a period during which the content data can be recorded free of charge, and second period data relating to a period during which the content data can be recorded for a fee, The control unit determines whether the date to be recorded is within the period set by the first period data, and when it is determined that the date to be recorded is within the period set by the first period data, And recording the content data for free. 92. The method of claim 91 wherein If it is determined that the date to which the recording is to be made is outside the period set as the first period data, the controller determines whether or not the date to be recorded is within the period set to the second period data. And when it is determined that it is within the period set as said second period data, recording of said content data is carried out for a fee. 93. The method of claim 92 wherein And the control unit notifies the user of the fact that the recording of the content data is paid. 94. The method of claim 93, And the apparatus further comprises a display section on which display of the meaning that the recording of the contents data is paid is performed. 93. The method of claim 92 wherein The control unit determines whether or not charge is possible, and when it is determined that charge is possible, the controller records the content data and performs charge. 94. The method of claim 93, And the controller terminates the recording operation of the content data when it is determined that charging is impossible. An extraction unit for extracting additional data from the supplied content data, the additional data including data relating to the reproduction restriction of the content data and additional data relating to a period in which a condition relating to reproduction of the content data is set; A playback processing unit which performs playback processing on the supplied content data; Has a clock circuit section and compares the period set by the data relating to the period of the additional data extracted by the extraction section with the date to be recorded from the clock circuit section, and the comparison result is to perform the recording. And a control unit for controlling the reproduction operation of the content data on the basis of the data relating to the reproduction restriction of the additional data when the date to be indicated is within the period set by the period data. . 97. The method of claim 97, And the control unit is prohibited from the reproducing operation of the content data when the comparison result indicates that the date to be reproduced is within a period set by the data relating to the period. 99. The method of claim 98, The control unit controls the reproduction operation of the content data based on the data on the reproduction restriction when it is determined that the date to be reproduced is outside the period set by the data on the period. Device for reproducing data. The method of claim 99, wherein And the control unit performs a reproduction operation of the content data when the data on the reproduction restriction allows reproduction of the content data. The method of claim 99, wherein The control unit further includes a memory unit for storing the number of times of reproduction of the content data, and the control unit is based on the data read out from the memory unit when the data concerning the reproduction restriction allows reproduction of the content data. To determine whether or not the number of playbacks specified by the data relating to the reproduction limit is less than or equal to, and when it is determined to be less than or equal to the prescribed number of playbacks, the playback operation of the content data is executed. Device. 102. The method of claim 101, wherein And the control unit terminates the reproducing operation of the content data when the prescribed number of times of reproduction is exceeded. 97. The method of claim 97, The data relating to the period has a first period data and a second period data, and the data relating to the reproduction restriction includes a first reproduction regarding the reproduction restriction of the content data in the period set as the first period data. Restriction data and second reproduction limitation data relating to a reproduction restriction of the content data in the period set as the second period data;  The controller determines whether or not the date to be played back is within the period set by the first period data, and when it is determined that the date to be played back is within the period set by the first period data, And reproducing the content data on the basis of the reproduction restriction data. 103. The method of claim 103, When it is determined that the date to be played back is outside the period set by the first period data, the controller determines whether or not the date to be played back is within the period set by the second period data. And when it is determined that the date to be played back is within the period set as the second period data, the playback operation of the content data is controlled based on the second playback restriction data. 103. The method of claim 103, In the period set as the first period data, reproduction of the content data is prohibited, and in the period set as the second period data, the content data can be reproduced for a fee. When it is determined that the date to which the reproduction is to be performed is within a period set by the data relating to the first period data and also within a period set by the data relating to the second period data, the control unit charges the user for a fee. And notifying that content data can be reproduced. 97. The method of claim 97, The apparatus further includes a display unit for displaying the meaning that the reproduction of the contents data is paid. 105. The method of claim 105, And the control unit judges whether or not charge is possible after the notification, and if it is determined that charge is possible, charge is performed without reproducing the content data. 97. The method of claim 97, The data relating to the period includes first period data relating to a period during which the content data can be reproduced free of charge, and second period data relating to a period during which the content data can be reproduced for a fee; The controller determines whether or not the date to be played back is within a period set by the first period data, and when it is determined that the date to be played back is within a period set by the first period data, the content is set. An apparatus for reproducing content data, characterized in that data is reproduced free of charge. 109. The method of claim 108, When it is determined that the date to be played back is outside the period set by the first period data, the controller determines whether or not the date to be played back is within the period set by the second period data. And when it is determined to be within the period set by the period data, the reproduction of the content data is performed for a fee. 109. The method of claim 109, And the control unit notifies the user that the reproduction of the content data is paid. 113. The method of claim 110, The apparatus further includes a display unit for displaying the meaning that the reproduction of the contents data is paid. 109. The method of claim 109, And the controller judges whether or not charge is possible, and when it is determined that charge is possible, reproduces the content data and performs charge. 113. The method of claim 110, And the controller terminates the playback operation of the content data when it is determined that charging is impossible. delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete

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