RU2273101C2 - Method and system for controlling audio data reproduction incorporating editing device and record medium - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: controlling reproduction of copying-protected audio data.

SUBSTANCE: proposed system has license control device, editing device, and portable record medium. License control device saves pairs of contents protected against unauthorized copying and numbers of permitted input checks. Upon arrival of request for output check execution audio entity corresponding to medium content is recorded on license control device, content identifier is assigned to given audio entity, and respective number of permitted output checks is decremented by one. Editing device functions to edit audio entity and to assign content identifier, similar to that of input audio entity, to every new audio entity obtained by editing. Local memory saves pre-history information including medium identifier and content identifier assigned to original audio entity. Upon arrival of request for executing input check for license control device medium audio entity whose assigned content identifier is similar to that of pre-history information is placed in non-reproducible state and number of permitted output checks is augmented by one.

EFFECT: ability of audio data control, including their input check on portable record medium, even in case of audio data editing.

30 cl, 43 dwg

Description

A control device, an editing device, a recording medium, a method and an audio data playback control system including a control device, an editing device and a recording medium

Technical field

The present invention relates to an audio data playback control system, which includes a recording medium, an editing device, and a control device for managing protected content, which is copy-protected audio data. More specifically, the present invention relates to an improvement in editing audio data on a recording medium using an editing device.

State of the art

In recent years, SDMI (Digital Music Records Initiative) has established various copy protection methods for copyrighted digital audio material. In accordance with SDMI, copy-protected digital audio material is converted to SDMI-protected content and transmitted over the Internet. SDMI protected content is audio data that is protected against fraud and unlawful reproduction by third parties, while the playback of SDMI protected content is controlled by the audio data playback control system. Once the copy-protected digital audio material is converted to SDMI protected content. only devices compatible with SDMI standards can play SDMI-protected content. Those. devices not compatible with the SDMI standard. cannot play back SDMI-protected content, let alone copy it. Therefore, you need to perform a special process called exit check to convert SDMI-protected content to playable audio data. The output check is performed by the installed control device in the audio data playback control system. After receiving the SDMI-protected content via the network, the control device performs an output check to convert the SDMI-protected content to reproducible audio data, and writes the audio data to a recording medium such as a semiconductor memory card. storing uniquely defined identification information. The playback device reproduces the audio data recorded on the recording medium.

The number of exit checks that can be performed (the number of allowed exit checks) is limited to a predetermined number, for example, two or three. Therefore, as soon as the output check is performed in accordance with the set number of allowed output checks, the control device prohibits subsequent exit checks and awaits the input check for audio data on the recording medium. Input verification refers to the procedure for returning to an unplayable state audio data that has been set to a reproducible state. If the input check is performed for SDMI-protected content, the output check of which is currently prohibited, the number of allowed exit checks for the SDMI-protected content is incremented and the output check of the SDMI-protected content becomes possible again.

In order to properly perform an input check, the control device must decide whether the data for which the input check from the recording medium should be carried out is the same for which the control device has previously performed a check on the output to the recording medium. However, there is no generally accepted method that would use a system for generating information about the control operations for exit checks performed by devices. As a result, situations may arise when the input check on the audio data on the recording medium is not carried out properly. To solve this problem, methods have recently been proposed that control exit verification operations using identification information stored on a recording medium. The following describes how to judge the correspondence between audio data using identification information on a recording medium. If the output check is performed to convert the SDMI-protected content into reproducible audio data, the control device assigns identification information (called “track identifier (ID)” to the audio data). The identification information “Track ID” assigned to the audio data is treated as a track on the recording medium. The control device then reads the uniquely determined identification information (called "media ID") from the recording medium and stores a pair of track ID and media ID values as the output check history information.

Upon receipt after this of an input check command for a track recorded on the recording medium, the control device then reads the medium ID uniquely determined for the recording medium and the track ID assigned to the SDMI-protected content from the recording medium and decides whether the pair of read ID with exit check history information. If the decision result is positive, then the control device determines that the track for which the input check is to be performed is the audio data for which the control device has previously performed an output check. In this case, the control device sets the track to an irreproducible state and reports an increment in the number of allowed output checks for SDMI-protected content. If the decision result is negative, then an input check is not performed for SDMI-protected content.

With this method, however, the control device can properly perform an input check on a track recorded on the recording medium only if the correspondence between the track and the SDMI-protected content has not changed. Those. if the track recorded on the recording medium has been edited and the correspondence between the track and the SDMI-protected content has changed, then the correspondence between the track and the SDMI-protected content cannot be detected by accessing the output verification history information as described above. For example, if a track on a recording medium is divided and a new track is formed, a new track identifier will be assigned to the new track. In this case, if the control device tries to perform an input check for a new track on the recording medium, it will be decided that for the original track, the pair of track ID and media ID is consistent with the information on the history of exit checks, and only the original track is set to irreproducible state . This means that a decision is made that the pair consisting of the new track ID and the media ID is not consistent with the output check history information, so that the new track to which the new track ID is assigned remains on the recording medium as reproduced audio data. This creates an opportunity for an unscrupulous user to illegally increase the number of permitted exit checks for SDMI-protected content. Therefore, there may be cases of copyright infringement on SDMI-protected content.

As described above, if the track being checked for access to the recording medium has been edited, then the correspondence between the tracks before editing and after editing cannot be established properly. As a result, it is required that the audio data playback control system is carried out in accordance with (1) the specification, where "checking for input of tracks from the recording medium is allowed, but editing tracks is prohibited", or (2) the specification where "checking for input of tracks from the recording medium not allowed, but editing tracks is allowed. " This leads to inconvenience for users with a significant frequency of use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The first objective of the present invention is to provide an audio data playback control system that properly performs audio input verification on a recording medium, even in the case of editing audio data.

A second object of the present invention is to provide a recording medium having an information system that allows the control device to uniquely identify each output check caused by a session.

This first task is solved in an audio data playback control system containing a recording medium, a control device that stores the allowed number performs an output verification operation by (a) recording the first audio object with the first part of the identification information on the recording medium and (b) a negative increment message to the allowed number and performs the operation of checking by input by setting the first audio object on the recording medium in an irreproducible state and increment messages to the allowed chi case; and an editing device that (c) edits the first audio object to obtain a second audio object and (d) records the second audio object with the second part of the identification information on the recording medium, the second part of the identification information having an equivalence relation with the first part of the identification information, wherein the control device performs an input verification operation on the second audio object corresponding to the second part of the identification information. This embodiment prevents the situation when, despite the fact that the second audio object obtained by editing the content remains on the recording medium, the number of permitted exit checks for the content is incremented.

Here, the editing performed by the editing device is a division of the first audio object to obtain a second audio object, while the editing device records the second audio object with the second part of the identification information on the recording medium. In this embodiment, the second audio object is set to an unplayable state using the input check operation.

The control device also includes a unit for recording the ID of the first object, providing, when recording the first audio object, recording the ID of the first object corresponding to the first audio object, on the recording medium, and the editing device further includes a unit for recording the ID of the second object, which ensures, when recording the second audio object, recording the ID of the second object corresponding to the second audio object on the recording medium, and the ID of the second object corresponding to the second audio object is different from the ID of the first object: m management apparatus performs an operation check on the input of a second audio object corresponding to the ID of the second object and the second part of the identification information. In the audio data playback control system configured in this manner, in addition to the content ID, object IDs unique to audio objects are recorded on the recording medium. Therefore, the first audio object is different from the second audio object obtained by dividing the first audio object. This provides the ability to perform playback and editing operations on the corresponding audio objects.

The control device (1) stores a part of the information of the history of the exit checks, which includes media information unique to the recording medium, and the first part of the identification information, and (2) performs an input verification operation on the second audio object, which (i) is recorded on a recording medium to which the information of the medium corresponds to the information of the history of exit checks, and (ii) corresponds to the second part of the identification information having an equivalence relation with the first part of the identification information regarding information on the history of exit checks. In an audio data playback control system configured in this way, even if the control device and the editing device use two or more recording media, this does not cause confusion in the process of checking the input of audio objects on these recording media.

The above second task is solved by a recording medium intended for use in the system, the system including a control device that performs output verification operations, each output verification being performed by (a) recording at least one audio object on the recording medium and (b ) messages of negative increment to the allowed number; the media ID is pre-stored on the recording medium and the first audio track is recorded, the first audio track containing the first audio object and content ID, both of which are recorded through one of the output verification operations: the media ID is uniquely determined for the recording medium, and the pair consisting of an ID media and content ID, uniquely identifies one of the exit verification operations. This embodiment enables the control device to uniquely determine the check operation on the output using a pair consisting of a media ID and a content ID for an audio object on the recording medium. Therefore, input verification operations are performed appropriately for audio tracks that have been recorded on the recording medium through the output verification operations.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 is a design of an audio data playback control system according to a first embodiment of the invention.

2 is a level model of an editing and reproducing apparatus and a content management apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention.

Figa - the contents of the card semiconductor memory.

3B is a functional diagram of an editing and reproducing device.

4 is a functional block diagram illustrating an internal structure of a content management device.

5A-5D are a first example of processing performed by an audio data playback control system.

6A-6C are a first example of processing performed by an audio data playback control system.

7A-7C are a second example of processing performed by an audio data playback control system.

8A-8C are a second example of processing performed by an audio data playback control system.

Fig.9 - structure of the physical layer of a memory card standard SD.

Figure 10 - directory and file structures in each of the user data areas and the protected area of the SD memory card.

11 is an illustration of the correspondence between Track Information (IND), AOB files and Header Key Records.

12 is an illustration of reproducing audio objects in AOB files in sequential playback.

13A is an internal structure of a Title Key Record.

13B is an internal structure of track information (IND).

14 is an illustration of how an IND is set when two tracks are combined to form one new track.

15 is an example of how a track is divided into two new tracks.

Fig. 16 illustrates an internal structure of an editing and reproducing apparatus according to a second embodiment of the invention.

17 is an internal structure of a content management device according to a second embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 18 is an illustration of an internal structure of a secure write / read unit.

Fig. 19 is an internal structure of a secure recording unit.

Fig - internal structure of the secure reading unit.

21A is an illustration of a directory and file structure of local memory.

21B is an example of a distribution packet management table.

21C is an example of setting the numbers of allowed exit checks.

21D is an example of a history information table.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart of a check but output operation according to a second embodiment of the invention. FIG.

23 is a flowchart of an input verification operation according to a second embodiment of the invention.

24 is a flowchart illustrating processing of an object division block according to a second embodiment of the invention.

25 is an illustration of a state when a content management device receives SDMI-protected content.

Fig. 26 is an illustration of a state in which the content management device has performed exit verification operations.

FIG. 27 is an illustration of a state in which an editing and reproducing apparatus edits tracks that have been recorded on SD memory cards through output verification operations.

Fig. 28 is an illustration of a state in which the content management device has performed input verification operations.

Fig.29 is an illustration of the complete processing of Fig.25-28, which is performed by the content management device.

Description of preferred embodiments of the invention

First option

An audio data playback control system according to a first embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the drawings. An audio data playback control system according to a first embodiment of the present invention creates a so-called “local SDMI environment” where a user can locally use SDMI-protected content (hereinafter simply “content”). Each content is assigned a unique international ISRC (International Standard Record Code) code, and each content is encrypted before being manipulated. Detailed information about SDMI is contained in the SDMI Portable Device Specification, issued June 30, 1999, and therefore is not described in detail here. It should be noted that the sections below are given the classification indices "{x1-x2}".

The number of digits of the classification index represents the hierarchical depth of the subject explained in the section with this classification index. Thus, in the classification index given to the section, “x1” represents the number of the drawing referenced in the section, and “x2” represents the reference position of the device element explained in this section.

{1-1,2.3}

Figure 1 shows the design of an audio data playback control system in accordance with the present invention. As shown in this drawing, the audio data playback control system comprises a semiconductor memory card 1 on which the audio data is recorded in a reproducible format, an editing and reproducing device 2 that edits and reproduces the audio data, and a content management device 3 that downloads the distribution package p1 (pair, consisting of content and permission management information) from the distribution server 4 and performs an entry check and an exit check for the content in accordance with the information atsiey rights management. A level model of the editing and reproducing device 2 and the content management device 3 is shown in FIG. As shown in this drawing, the editing and reproducing apparatus 2 comprises hardware and an application program, and the content management apparatus 3 comprises hardware, a licensed compliance module, and an application program. Note that the fundamental difference between the two devices 2 and 3 is that the content management device 3 contains a licensed compliance module that is not included in the editing and reproducing device 2. A licensed compliance module is a software module that can (1) upload content to a content management device 3 and manage downloaded content as the original content used in the local SDMI environment, (2) transfer downloaded content to another location in the local SDMI environment for local use (performing an exit check) and (3) return the content that was issued to the mentioned location in the local SDMI environment to the original location in the soda control device 3 zhaniem (execution of input validation).

The SDMI-protected content included in the distribution package is encrypted audio data and therefore cannot be played in the local SDMI environment. The encryption key needed to decrypt this audio data is included in the credential management information. The credential management information is encrypted in accordance with the public key encryption system and is decrypted only by the licensed compliance module. Therefore, a device (editing and reproducing device 2) that does not include a licensed compliance module cannot extract the encryption key from the privilege management information in the local SDMI environment. Without an encryption key, SDMI-protected content is non-reproducible audio data in the local SDMI environment (note that credential management information is decrypted in the licensed compliance module, provided that the predefined fee is paid to the copyright holder).

{2-1} Card 1 semiconductor memory

The semiconductor memory card 1 is a portable recording medium that enables the recording and transfer of audio data that can be played in a local SDMI environment. On the card 1 of the semiconductor memory, reproduced audio data is manipulated as blocks of audio objects (hereinafter “AOB”). Each AOB is encrypted audio data that is obtained by (a) encoding audio data using an audio compression codec (such as MP3 (Audio Level 3 MPEG1 standard), Dolby AC-3 (Digital Audio Compression) or AAC (Advanced Audio Encoding)) and ( b) encrypting the encoded audio data using a unique (i.e., a uniquely defined encryption key). 3A shows the contents of a semiconductor memory card 1. As shown in this drawing, the semiconductor memory card 1 is assigned unique identification information “Media ID”, and each audio object is recorded on the card together with a 7-byte encryption key, as well as playback control information corresponding to the audio object. The media ID is an 8-byte identification information and consists of a 1-byte identifier (ID) uniquely assigned to the card manufacturer 1 of the semiconductor memory and a 7-byte number uniquely assigned to the recording medium.

Each encryption key needed to decrypt AOB is recorded in the area of the card 1 of the semiconductor memory, which is accessible even for a device that does not include a licensed compliance module. Since each encryption key is recorded in such an area, each audio object is manipulated as reproducible audio data in the local SDMI environment. Each AOB is reproduced using the corresponding encryption key recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1. Therefore, each AOB on the semiconductor memory card 1 becomes irreproducible if the corresponding encryption key on the semiconductor memory card 1 is overwritten with other data.

Each set, consisting of AOB, an encryption key, and playback control information, is called an audio track (hereinafter simply referred to as a “track”). The editing and reproducing apparatus 2 performs playback and editing operations for the respective tracks. There are also tracks, each of which includes multiple AOBs, multiple encryption keys, and playback control information. Therefore, the playback control information includes attribute information indicating whether the corresponding AOB forms an independent track, a first part (or title) of a track, a middle part of a track, or an end part of a track. Each AOB is assigned a unique AOB ID, which is a number ranging from 001 to 999, and each AOB is uniquely identified by the AOB ID on card 1 of the semiconductor memory. In addition to the AOB ID, each AOB is assigned a content ID. As described above, each AOB represents audio data corresponding to a certain content. Therefore, each content ID is used to distinguish AOB generated by performing an exit verification operation on some content from AOB generated by performing an exit verification operation on other content. Each content ID is also used to distinguish AOB generated by performing an exit verification operation on some content from AOB generated by performing another exit verification operation on the same content. Like AOB identifiers, each content ID is a number ranging from 001 to 999. Each pair of media ID and content ID defines one of the operations performed by the content management device 3. Thus, the tracks recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1 are distinguished from each other by uniquely determined identification information (called “Track ID”) assigned to the tracks. In this embodiment, the letters “A, B, C, D ...” are used as track IDs, and the tracks to which the track IDs “A, B, C, D ...” are assigned are indicated as “Track.A, Track.В, Track.С, Track.D ... "

{3-2} Device 2 editing and playback

The editing and reproducing apparatus 2 is a portable editing apparatus having a reproducing function. Those. the editing and reproducing device 2 receives the track data from the licensed compliance module in the content management device 3 through the semiconductor memory card 1 and reproduces and edits the tracks. On figv shows a functional diagram of the device 2 editing and playback. As shown in this drawing, the editing and reproducing apparatus 2 comprises a user interface unit 10, an object reproducing unit 11, an object dividing unit 12, and an object combining unit 13.

{3-10} User Interface Unit 10

The user interface unit 10 includes a display that displays a list of tracks recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1, a scroll wheel and various keys. In this embodiment, the user interface unit 10 provides the operator with various information and receives various commands from the operator.

{3-11} Block 11 playback object

If the user interface unit 10 receives a request for reproducing audio objects, then the object reproducing unit 11 receives these AOBs and corresponding encryption keys, decrypts the AOB using encryption keys, and reproduces the decrypted AOB. On the other hand, if the user interface unit 10 receives a request to execute a particular playback mode, such as fast forward or fast rewind for AOB data, then the object playback unit 11 performs this playback mode by accessing the playback control information.

{3-12} Block 12 dividing the object

Unit 12 dividing the object divides the tracks defined by the operator. If the operator enters a command for dividing a track, then the unit 12 dividing the object sets the editing point in accordance with the operation of the disk scroll control performed by the operator. The editing point is expressed in terms of relative time, which is determined in relation to the beginning of the corresponding AOB. After setting the editing point, the editing and reproducing device 2 divides the AOB at the editing point into two parts. When performing this operation, the editing and reproducing device 2 assigns the content ID and the AOB ID, which are the same as those corresponding to the original AOB, the first part between the beginning of the AOB and the editing point. In addition, the editing and reproducing apparatus 2 assigns a content ID that is the same as that corresponding to the original AOB, and a new AOB ID of the second part between the editing point and the end of the AOB. After the new AOB ID is assigned to the audio object corresponding to the second part, the editing and reproducing device 2 generates playback control information and an encryption key corresponding to the new AOB ID, and writes this information and the key to the semiconductor memory card 1. The audio object to which the new AOB ID is assigned is manipulated as a single track together with the corresponding playback control information and an encryption key on the semiconductor memory card 1. In this way, track division determined by the operator is performed.

(12.i) It should be noted that although a new audio object formed by dividing the original track is assigned an AOB ID that is different from the AOB ID of the original audio object, this new audio object is assigned a content ID that is the same as the content ID of the original track. Those. although the audio objects corresponding to the first part and the second part of the original audio object are assigned different AOB IDs, the same content IDs are assigned to both of these audio objects. Therefore, if it is required to perform an input check for these audio objects, the content management device 3 immediately recognizes that these audio objects are formed by dividing the original audio object.

{3-13} Block 13 combining objects

Unit 13 combining objects combines the tracks according to the operator's command received by block 10 of the user interface. If two audio objects are recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1 and the user interface unit 10 receives an operator command to combine these audio objects, then the object combining unit 13 updates the attribute information included in the playback control information in the respective tracks to show that one of these audio objects is the first part tracks, and the other of these audio objects is the last part of the track. In this way, the unit 13 combining the objects combines two tracks into one track.

{4-3} Content Management Device 3

The content management device 3 is a personal computer including SDMI-compatible hardware, an SDMI-compatible application, and a licensed compliance module that functions as an interface between the hardware and the application. 4 is a functional block diagram showing the implementation of a content management device 3 provided with a licensed compliance module. As shown in this drawing, the content management device 3 includes a local memory 20, a user interface unit 21, an output verification unit 22, an AOB ID assignment unit 23, a content ID assignment unit 24, and an input verification unit 25.

{4-20} Local memory 20

Local memory 20 represents an internal disk on which a plurality of distribution formats are stored. Each distribution format is a format for distributing SDMI-protected content over a network such as the Internet. The credential management information of each distribution format includes various data, such as an encryption key used to encrypt the corresponding content, and the number of permitted exit checks corresponding to the content, which should not be manipulated by the user.

{4-21} User Interface Unit 21

The user interface unit 21 includes a display that displays a list of content stored in the local memory 20 and a pointing device, such as a keyboard and mouse combination. In this embodiment, the user interface unit 21 displays various information for the operator and receives various commands from the operator.

{4-22} Block 22 exit check

The output check unit 22 converts the content stored in the local memory 20 into audio objects (AOBs) and writes these AOBs to the semiconductor memory card 1. More specifically, if the semiconductor memory card 1 is connected to the content management device 3 and the operator selects the content to conduct an output check, the output check unit 22 decides whether the playback time of the selected content exceeds a predetermined length of time.

(22.i) The output check unit 22 makes this decision to suppress the size control information of the reproduced data corresponding to the specific AOB (selected content). The reason for this is as follows. The playback control information includes a time distribution table showing a plurality of entry points that are accessed when the editing and reproducing apparatus 2 alternately reads the AOB at 2 second intervals. The shorter the AOB playback time, the smaller the number of entry points. Therefore, the size of the time distribution table is reduced. On the other hand, the longer the AOB playback time, the larger the number of entry points becomes. Therefore, the size of the time distribution table increases. Due to the fact that the time distribution table accessed by the editing and reproducing device 2 when fast-forwarding and fast-forwarding back is in memory, it is desirable that the size of the time distribution table be reduced in order to more efficiently use the limited amount of this memory.

(22-ii) For the reason described above, the output check unit 22 decides whether the playback time of the AOB for recording on the semiconductor memory card 1 exceeds a predetermined length of time before checking the output of the selected content. If the decision result is negative, then the output check unit 22 writes audio data corresponding to the selected content as one AOB to the semiconductor memory card 1. If the decision result is positive, then the output check unit 22 divides the corresponding audio data into a plurality of AOBs and writes these AOBs to the semiconductor memory card 1. Thus, even if the playback time of the original content exceeds a predetermined time duration, the playback time of each AOB obtained by dividing the original content does not exceed a predetermined time duration. Therefore, data of the size of the time distribution table corresponding to each received AOB can be suppressed. After the AOB is recorded, the output check unit 22 writes the encryption key and the reproduction control information corresponding to the selected content to the semiconductor memory card 1, so that the AOB is associated with the encryption key and the reproduction control information. As a result, even if the content is divided into a plurality of AOBs, these AOBs form one track with corresponding encryption key and playback control information on the semiconductor memory card 1. This maintains a uniquely defined correspondence between the content stored in the content management device 3 and the track recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1, regardless of whether the content is recorded as one AOB or a plurality of AOB.

{4-23} Block 23 assignment of ID AOB

The AOB ID assignment block 23 assigns the AOB ID, which is uniquely identified on the semiconductor memory card 1, to each AOB formed from the content before writing the AOB. The procedure for assigning an AOB ID to each AOB to be recorded is described in detail below. The AOB ID assignment unit 23 checks which of the 001-999 numbers available as the AOB ID are already allocated on the semiconductor memory card 1. As a result of this operation, the AOB ID assignment unit 23 finds, for example, that seven AOBs are stored on the semiconductor memory card 1, and the AOB ID numbers 001-007 are assigned by this AOB. The AOB ID assignment unit 23 then selects one of the unassigned numbers 008-999 and assigns the AOB ID (selected number) to that AOB to be recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1. If the content to be recorded corresponds to three AOBs, then the AOB ID assignment unit 23 selects three numbers 008, 009 and 010 from the unassigned numbers 008-999 and assigns the selected numbers to these AOBs. If the numbers 001, 002, 004 and 006-010 have already been assigned to audio objects in this case, then the AOB ID assigning unit 23 selects three non-sequential numbers (such as 003, 005 and 011) from the unassigned numbers 003, 005 and 011 -999 and assigns selected numbers to these AOBs.

{4-24} Block 24 Assignment of Content ID

The content ID assignment unit 24 assigns a content ID to each AOB formed by dividing the content before each generated AOB is recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1. Like the AOB ID block 23, the content ID block 24 checks which of the numbers 001-999 available as the content ID are already allocated on the semiconductor memory card 1. As a result of this operation, the content ID assignment unit 24 finds how the content IDs are currently distributed on the semiconductor memory card 1. For example, block 24 assignment of the content ID finds that the numbers 001-005 have already been assigned, and the numbers 006-999 remained unassigned.

(24.i) After finding how the content IDs are currently distributed, the content ID assignment unit 24 selects one of the unassigned numbers and assigns the selected number to each AOB corresponding to the content to be recorded. For example, if numbers 006-999 are not assigned, then the block 24 assigning the content ID selects the number 006 as the content ID and assigns the selected number to each AOB. Also, for example, if the numbers 002, 004 and 006 have already been assigned to audio objects and, therefore, the numbers 003, 005 and 007-999 that are not consecutive remain unassigned, then the block 24 assigning the content ID selects the number 003 as the content ID and assigns the selected number for each AOB corresponding to this content. It should be noted that the fundamental difference between the content ID and the AOB ID is that even if multiple AOBs are to be recorded, the same content ID is assigned to these AOBs. Those. even if multiple AOBs are generated from the same content. the same content ID is assigned to many of these AOBs. After the content ID assignment unit 24 has assigned the content ID to each AOB to be recorded, the content management device 3 reads the media ID from the semiconductor memory card 1 and stores the pair consisting of the media ID and the assigned content ID in the local memory as information prehistory. By accessing the pairs of the content ID and the carrier ID, the content management device 3 determines the correspondence between the content on the semiconductor memory card 1 and the content in the local memory 20 and finds how the content IDs are distributed.

(24.ii) In view of the assignment of the content ID described above, the following conclusion can be made regarding the case where the same content should be double-checked for output with respect to the same semiconductor memory card 1. Assume that numbers 001-005 have already been allocated and you want to check the exit for content. In this case, the number 006 is selected and assigned to each AOB corresponding to the content. If a request is received to check for the release of the same content again, then from the unassigned numbers 007-999, the number 007 is selected and assigned to each AOB corresponding to this content. Therefore, in the case when the same content is checked twice for the output and two sets of AOBs corresponding to this content are stored on card 1 of the semiconductor memory, these sets of AOB are respectively assigned a content ID in the form of numbers 006 and 007. This makes it possible to distinguish between these two sets on card 1 of the semiconductor memory.

{4-25} Block 25 input check

If the content management device 3 is connected to the semiconductor memory card 1 and it is requested to check the content input from the semiconductor memory card 1, then the input check unit 25 reads the media ID and content ID assigned to each AOB corresponding to the content from card 1 semiconductor memory. The input check unit 25 then decides whether the history information in the local memory 20 includes a pair of carrier IDs and content IDs that are the same as those read from the semiconductor memory card 1. If the decision result is positive, then the input check unit 25 sets each AOB to which this content ID is assigned to an irreproducible state. As a result, even if there are many AOBs that have the same content ID on card 1 of the semiconductor memory, all these AOBs are set to an irreproducible state. This is explained by the fact that although on the card 1 of the semiconductor memory these AOBs are treated as independent AOBs, all these AOBs correspond to the same content and must be set to irreproducible state as a result of the input check operation. After performing an input check and establishing each AOB with the specified content ID in an irreproducible state, the input check unit 25 increments the corresponding number of allowed output checks and removes this pair of media ID and content ID from the history information. As a result, the content returns to the state before the exit check operation and it becomes possible to re-run the exit check for that content. Even if audio objects that are assigned the same content ID are separated or combined with other audio objects by an editing operation, these audio objects return to their original state and are set to an unplayable state.

The internal structure of the content management device is described above. The following is a comparison of the content ID with each other. AOB ID and ISRC code assigned to the content.

AOB ID is the same as content ID in the sense that these IDs are selected from numbers not allocated on card 1 of the semiconductor memory.

If multiple AOBs are generated from the content and all of them are stored on the semiconductor memory card 1, these AOBs are assigned different AOB IDs, but the same content ID. Similarly, if one AOB stored on the semiconductor memory card 1 is divided into many AOBs, then these AOBs are assigned different AOB IDs, but the same content ID.

As described above, the AOB ID and the content ID differ from each other in similarity before and after division of the AOB. This means that while the similarity of the AOB ID is not maintained after the division of the AOB, the similarity of the content ID remains after the division.

Like the content ID, the similarity of the ISRC code is preserved before and after the division of AOB. This is because each ISRC code is international identification information used to identify content and does not change, regardless of how the AOBs are shared or combined. As a result, if the content management device 3 performs an exit check for the same content twice, the ISRC of each AOB recorded by the last exit check operation does not change with respect to the code of each AOB recorded during the first exit check operation. This makes it impossible to distinguish between these AOBs by referring only to the ISRC code. However, as described above, if the output check is performed for the same content twice and two sets of AOBs corresponding to the contents are recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1, then different sets of content IDs are assigned to these sets of AOBs. Therefore, if a request is received to verify the contents of the semiconductor memory card 1, then the input check unit 25 sets each AOB recorded by the first output check operation to an unplayable state and leaves each AOB recorded by the last output check operation in a reproducible state .

As described above, unlike the AOB ID and ISRC codes, the content ID uniquely identifies the audio objects that were checked for the output of the semiconductor memory card 1.

A first example of processing by the audio data reproduction control system performed as described above is presented below with reference to FIGS. 5A-5D and 6A-6C. These drawings illustrate the basic principle of processing performed by the audio data playback control system according to the first example. On figa shows the initial state in which the device 3 content management remembers the content and the corresponding number of permitted checks on the output is "001". Thus, the semiconductor memory card 1 is assigned an ID of the recording medium in the form of “AA1”. It should be noted that in this example, each content corresponds to one AOB, unless specifically defined otherwise. If the content management device 3 receives an operator’s request to perform an exit check for the content stored in the local memory 20 under these conditions, then the AOB ID assignment unit 23 assigns the AOB ID in the form of “001” to the audio object to be stored, and the assignment unit 24 The content ID assigns the content ID in the form of “001” to this audio object, as shown by arrow (1) in FIG. 5B. An audio object with the AOB ID assigned to it in the form of "001" is identified as "AOB001" on card 1 of the semiconductor memory. Following this, as shown by arrow (2) in FIG. 5B, the content is recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1 as an audio object. At the same time, an encryption key and playback control information corresponding to this AOB are stored on the semiconductor memory card 1. In this way, Track.A is recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1.

Then, as shown by arrow (3) in FIG. 5B, the content ID assignment unit 24 reads the carrier ID “AA1” from the card 1 of the semiconductor memory and stores the pair of carrier ID “AA1” and the content ID “001” as history information in the local memory 20. Finally, as shown by arrow (4) in FIG. 5B, the number of permitted exit checks determined by the credential management information decreases by one and becomes "000". This completes the exit check operation. After that, as shown by arrow (1) in FIG. 5C, the semiconductor memory card 1 is removed from the content management device 3 and connected to the editing and reproducing device 2.

On fig.5D presents the state when the AOB recorded on the card 1 of the semiconductor memory is divided into two AOB using the device 2 editing and playback. As shown in this drawing, the object dividing unit 12 sets an editing point for an audio object in order to divide this audio object into two audio objects. As shown by arrow (1) in FIG. 6A, after the audio object has been divided and a new audio object has been formed, the previously unassigned AOB ID “002” is assigned to this new audio object. In addition, as shown by arrow (2) in FIG. 6A, the content ID “001” of the original audio object is assigned to the audio object AOB002. Following this, for AOB002, an encryption key and playback control information are generated, and as a result, a new track for the semiconductor memory card 1, defined as “Track. B”, is obtained.

FIG. 6B shows a state in which the content is checked by input from the semiconductor memory card 1. Assume that the semiconductor memory card 1, in which two AOBs obtained by the editing operation are stored, is reconnected to the content management device 3 (as shown by arrow (1) in FIG. 6B) and a request is made to perform an input check for the content. The local memory 20 of the content management device 3 stores a pair of carrier ID “AA1” and a content ID “001” as historical information. Therefore, as shown by arrows (2), (3) and (4) in FIG. an input check unit 25 detects each AOB. which is assigned a content ID "001", demonstrated by the history information, by accessing the media ID assigned to the semiconductor memory card 1 and the content ID assigned to each AOB. Since two AOBs are stored on card 1 of the semiconductor memory with the assigned content ID “001”, the input check unit 25 sets these AOBs to an irreproducible state (as shown by arrow (1) in FIG. 6C), deletes history information including a pair of carrier ID AA1 "and the content ID" 001 "(as shown by arrow (2) in Fig. 6c), and increases the number of permitted exit checks to" 001 "(as shown by arrow (3) in Fig. 6C). A first example of processing by an audio data playback control system is described above.

A second example of processing by the audio data playback control system is described below with reference to FIGS. 7A-7C and 8A-8C. The audio data playback control system corresponding to this example is an improvement of the system presented in the first example. On figa-7C presents the General principle of processing by the audio playback control system corresponding to this example. Similarly figa. on figa shows the state in which the device 3 content management stores the content, and the corresponding number of permitted checks on the output is "001", and the card 1 of the semiconductor memory is assigned a media ID "AA1". The difference between FIGS. 5A and 7A is that the semiconductor memory card 1 according to FIG. 7A pre-stores the AOB to which the AOB ID “001” and the content ID “001” are assigned. Note that since this "AOB001" is not an audio object that was checked for output by the content management device 3, the content management device 3 should not check this AOB for input. Also, similarly to the first example, each content in this example corresponds to one AOB.

If the semiconductor memory card 1 is connected to the content management device 3, as shown by arrow (1) in FIG. 7A, and the content management device 3 receives an operator request to check the output of the content, then the AOB ID assignment unit 23 assigns the AOB ID “002” to the audio object to be recorded, and the content ID assignment unit 24 assigns the content ID “002” to the audio object, as shown by arrow (1) in FIG. 7B. Then, the content is converted to AOB and recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1, as shown by arrow (2) in FIG. At the same time, the encryption key and the playback control information corresponding to AOB are recorded on the semiconductor memory card 1.

In this way, the track "Track.B" is recorded on the card 1 of the semiconductor memory. Following this, as shown by arrow (3) in FIG. 7B, the content ID assignment unit 24 reads the carrier ID “AA1” from the semiconductor memory card 1 and stores the media ID in the local memory 20 along with the content ID “002” as historical information . Finally, as shown by arrow (4) in FIG. 7B, the number of permitted checks on the output determined by the credential management information is reduced to “000”. This completes the exit check operation.

After that, as shown by arrow (1) in FIG. 7C, the semiconductor memory card 1 is removed from the content management device 3 and connected to the editing and reproducing device 2. The unit 12 of dividing the object of the editing and reproducing apparatus 2 sets an editing point for AOB002 in order to divide this audio object into two audio objects. As shown by arrow (2) in FIG. 7C, a new AOB generated by dividing the original AOB002 is assigned an unassigned ID AOB "OOZ" and a content ID "002" of the original AOB.

Following this, for AOB 003, an encryption key and playback control information are generated, and a new track “Track. C” is created on the semiconductor memory card 1. Then, the unit 13 of combining the objects of the editing and reproducing apparatus 2 combines the track “Track.B” including AOB002 with the track “Track.A” including AOB001 to form a new track “Track.A”, as shown by the arrow (1) on figa. In doing this, the object combining unit 13 updates the attribute information included in the reproduction control information in the merged tracks, as shown by arrows (2) and (3) in FIG. 8A. The updated attribute information gives “Track.A Title” indicating that the corresponding track forms the beginning of the new Track.A track, and “End Track.A” indicating that the corresponding track forms the last part of the new Track.A track. As a result, a new Track.A track is formed on the semiconductor memory card 1 from AOB002 recorded by the content management device 3 and AOB001 recorded by another device other than the content management device 3.

On figv shows the state when the content is checked at the entrance from the card 1 of the semiconductor memory. Assume that the semiconductor memory card 1, which stores two AOB obtained by the editing operation, is again connected to the content management device 3 and a request is received to perform an input check for the content.

The local memory 20 of the content management device 3 stores historical information defining a pair of carrier ID “LA1” and a content ID “002”. Therefore, as shown by arrow (2) in FIG. 8B, the input check unit 25 detects each AOB with the assigned content ID “002” indicated by the history information by accessing the media ID assigned to the semiconductor memory card 1 and the content ID, assigned to each AOB. Since the audio object AOB003 having the identifier AOB "003" is assigned a content ID "002", the content management device 3 recognizes that this AOB003 is an audio object for which a check has been made for the output of the content management device 3.

Despite merging with AOB001, which is assigned the AOB ID “001”, AOB002, whose AOB ID is “002,” has a content ID of “002”. Therefore, the content management device 3 recognizes that this AOB002 is also an audio object for which a check has been made on the output of the content management device 3. Since these audio objects (AOB002 and AOB003) are audio objects that were checked for output by the content management device 3, the input check unit 25 sets AOB002 and AOB003 to an irreproducible state (as shown by arrow (2) in Fig. 8C), deletes history information, including a pair of carrier ID “AA1” and content ID “002” (as shown by arrow (3) in FIG. 8C), and increments the number of permitted exit checks to “001” (as shown by arrow (4 ) on figs). We emphasize that in this example, although the track ID for "Track.В" has changed from "B" to "A", the content ID of the track "Track.В" has remained unchanged when combining the tracks "Track.В" and "Track.A" "

As described above, in the audio data reproduction control system according to the first embodiment of the invention, if the AOB to be checked for output from the local memory 20 is divided into new AOBs and the new AOBs are combined with other AOBs, the editing and reproducing device 2 assigns an ID the contents of the original AOB to each of these new AOBs.

Even if the audio objects are re-divided and combined in a complex way, the editing and reproducing device 2 easily recognizes the correspondence between the audio objects recorded on the semiconductor memory card and the content stored in the content management device 3 simply by accessing the content ID. As a result, if a request for input verification is received for some content, the content management device 3 sets each audio object that is assigned a content ID corresponding to the given content to an irreproducible state, while deleting this content from the semiconductor memory card 1. This prevents situations where the number of allowed output checks for AOB increases even if part of the AOB remains on card 1 of the semiconductor memory.

It should be noted that in the first embodiment, the content management device 3 receives content from an electronic music distribution system. However, the device 3 content management can receive content by the so-called "ripping" (software copy sound phonograms from CDs). Such copying of sound phonograms from CDs is a method of obtaining content by encoding and encrypting audio data recorded on CD. It is preferable that the number of permitted exit checks for content obtained by copying audio phonograms from CDs be set to three in accordance with SDMI specification for portable devices, as described above. Also, the content management device 3 may receive content from packet media such as a multi-purpose digital disc for recording audio data other than CDs.

Second Embodiment

A second embodiment of the invention relates to a method for improving the storage and processing of audio tracks and audio objects, each of which has a data structure that complies with the SD audio data standard.

The semiconductor memory card 1 according to this embodiment of the invention is an SD memory card 100 having the physical structure shown in FIG. 9.

Figure 9 shows the structure of the physical layer of the SD memory card 100. As shown in this drawing, the SD memory card 100 comprises a system area 101, a hidden area 102, a protected area 103, authentication and key exchange (AOK) processing units 104 and 105, a decryption unit 106 using the session key Ks, encryption unit 107 with using Ks and a user data area 108.

System area 101 is a read-only area storing a block of media keys (BKN) and a media ID, as shown in FIG. 3A. BKN and media IDs stored in this area cannot be overwritten. Assume that the SD memory card 100 is connected to a device (such as an editing and reproducing device 2 or a content management device 3), and the BKN and carrier ID are read by this device. If the connected device correctly performs certain calculations using the BKN, the media ID and the device key Kd stored internally, then it can receive the correct encryption key Kmu.

The hidden area 102 stores the encryption key Kmu having the correct value, in other words, the encryption key Kmu that can be obtained if the connected device performs the correct calculation using the correct device key Kd.

The protected area 103 stores the encryption key and the content ID.

Authentication and key exchange (AOK) processing units 104 and 105 perform mutual authentication between the connected device and the SD memory card 100 using the request-response method, verify each other's authenticity, and if one of the interacting devices is invalid, complete the processing. If the corresponding interacting device is authenticated, then the encryption key (session key - Ks) is shared between this device and the SD memory card 100. Authentication performed by a device connected to the SD memory card 100 has three phases. First, in the first phase of the request, the device generates a random number, encrypts the random number using the encryption key Kmu, and transmits the encrypted random number to the SD memory card 100 as the value A of the request. Then, in the first phase of the response, the SD memory card 100 uses the encryption key Kmu, stored internally, to decrypt the request value A and transmits the decrypted value to the connected device as the response value B. Following this, in the first verification phase, the connected device decrypts the request value A stored internally using its encryption key Kmu and compares the decrypted value with the response value B transmitted from the SD memory card 100.

Authentication performed by the SD memory card 100 also has three phases. First, in the second phase of the request, the SD memory card 100 generates a random number, encrypts the random number using the encryption key Kmu, and transmits the encrypted random number to the connected device as the request value C. Then, in the second phase of the response, the connected device uses the encryption key Kmu, stored internally, to decrypt the request value C and transmits the decrypted value to the SD memory card 100 as the response value D. Subsequently, in the second verification phase, the SD memory card 100 decrypts the request value C stored internally using its encryption key Kmu and compares the decrypted value with the response value D transmitted from the connected device.

If the connected device uses the wrong encryption key Kmu to perform mutual authentication, the request value A and the response value B in the first verification phase and the request value C and the response value D in the second verification phase will be confirmed as inconsistent values and the mutual authentication procedure is completed. But if the authenticity of both interacting devices is confirmed, the authentication and key exchange processing units 104 and 105 perform an exclusive OR operation for the request value A and the request value C and obtain the session key Ks by decrypting the result of the exclusive OR operation using Kmu encryption key.

Decryption unit 106 uses the session key Ks to decrypt the encryption key and the content ID that have already been encrypted with the session key Ks and issued from the connected device. The encryption key and the content ID obtained by this decryption are recorded in the protected area 103.

The encryption unit 107 using the session key Ks receives a command from another device connected to the SD memory card 100 to read the encryption key and the content ID, encrypts the encryption key and the content ID stored in the secure area 103 using the session key Ks and issues encrypted encryption key and content ID to the device that issued the command.

The connected device area may be accessed to the user data area 108 regardless of whether the authenticity of the device is verified. Encrypted AOB and playback control information are stored in this area. If the encryption key from the protected area 103 has the correct value, then the encrypted AOB stored in the user data area 108 can be correctly decrypted. Reading data from the protected area 103 and writing data to the protected area 103 is performed together with the decryption performed by the decryption unit 106 using Ks and the encryption performed by the encryption unit 107 using Ks. Therefore, the protected area can be accessed from the side of the connected device when this device has successfully completed authentication and key exchange processing.

The following describes the directory structure and file structure for the SD card 100 memory.

10 shows the directory and file structures in the user data area 108 and in the protected area of the SD card 100 of the memory card. In this drawing, each of these areas 103 and 108 includes an SD_AUDIO directory. The SD_AUDIO directory in the user data area 108 stores eight files of audio objects (AOB001.SA1, AOB002.SA1. AOB003.SA1, AOB004.SA1, ..., AOB008.SA1) and SD_AUDIO.TKM. The SD_AUDIO directory in the protected area 103 saves the file "AOBSA1.KEY". The numbers between 001 and 008 included in the file names of audio objects are identifiers of AOB. The Eight Header Key Entries included in AOBSA1.KEY and the eight track information (IND) entries included in SD_AUDUO.TKM are also assigned the numbers "# 1, # 2, # 3, # 4, ..., # 8", corresponding to the identifiers of audio objects. Thus, each piece of playback control information used to play one of the AOBs is stored in track information (IND) having a number corresponding to the AOB ID of this audio object.

Figure 11 shows the correspondence between the IND, AOB files and Header Key Entries. In this drawing, the first level is illustrated by a rectangle representing SD_AUDIO.TKM, and the second and third levels are illustrated by eight files shown in FIG. 10. At the first level, eight INDs are shown, each of which is assigned one of the numbers "# 1, # 2. # 3. # 4, ..., # 8" as the track information ID. Each track information (IND) corresponds to an AOB file that is assigned an AOB ID corresponding to an IND ID for specific track information.

At the fourth level, in this drawing, eight rectangles are shown that represent eight Header Key Entries containing 5 encryption keys (KS # 1, KS # 2. KS # 3. KS # 4 and KS # 5) and five content IDs (001, 002 , 003, 004 and 005). Also, each Heading Key Record is assigned one of the numbers "# 1, # 2, # 3, # 4 ..., # 8" that define the Heading Key Record. Each Header Key Record corresponds to an AOB file that is assigned an AOB ID corresponding to the number of the Header Key Record. Therefore, in FIG. 11, IND # 1 and Header Key Record # 1 correspond to AOB001.SA1, IND # 2 and Header Key Record # 2 correspond to AOB002.SA1, IND # 3 and Header Key Record # 3 correspond to AOB003.SA1 and IND # 4 and Header Key Record # 4 correspond to AOB004.SA1 (arrows TA1, TA2, TA3, TA4, ... show the correspondence between track information and AOB files, and arrows KA1, KA2, KA3, KA4, ... show the correspondence between the Key Records Headers and AOB files.

12 shows how audio objects in AOB files are reproduced during sequential playback. In this drawing, the first level shows eight AOB files in the user data area, the second level shows each AOB contained in one of the AOB files, and the third level shows the real part (AOB_BLOCK) of each audio object.

At the fifth level, 5 contents are shown: Content.A, Content.B, Content.C, Content.D and Content.E. The fifth level illustrates how each content is divided on the fifth level. At the fourth level, the dashed lines AS1, AS2, AS3, ..., AS7, AS8 show the correspondence between parts of the content and blocks of audio objects.

The audio object AOB # 4 has a playback time of 8.4 minutes and is the first (or leading) part of the Content.D content, which has a playback time of 30.6 minutes. Blocks of audio objects included in the audio objects AOB # 5 and AOB # 6. are the middle parts of Content.D content and also have a playing time of 8.4 minutes. The audio object block included in the AOB # 7 audio object is the final part of the Content.D content and has a playback time of 5.4 minutes. Thus, the Content.D content has a total playback time of 30.6 minutes and is divided into parts of duration (8.4 + 8.4 + 8.4 + 5.4) minutes, each of these parts being included in a different AOB. As can be seen from this drawing, the audio object included in each AOB file corresponds to a maximum playback time of 8.4 minutes.

The following is a description of the internal structure of the Title Key Record. On figa shows the internal structure of the Record Key Header. As shown by the dashed line h1 in this drawing, the Header Key Record includes a 7-byte KS (encryption key), accessibility flag, and content ID.

The availability flag is set to 1 if the corresponding audio object exists on the SD memory card 100 and the encryption key (KS) for the corresponding audio object is included in the Title Key Record, and is set to 0 if the corresponding audio object exists on the SD memory card 100, but the encryption key (KS) for the corresponding audio object is not included in the Title Key Record.

The content ID in this embodiment is used in combination with the accessibility flag as follows. If the AOB file corresponding to the Title Key Record exists on the SD memory card 100, then the content ID in the Title Key Record is set to a value between 001 and 999. On the other hand, if the corresponding audio object file does not exist on the SD memory card 100, then The content ID in the Header Key Records is set to 0. Also, if the track corresponds to a plurality of INDs (audio objects), then the content ID in the Header Key Records corresponding to the audio objects will have the same value. If the track corresponds to one IND, the access flag is set to 1, and if the track corresponds to many IND, the access flag for one of the corresponding set of Header Key Records is set to 1, and the other access flags are set to 0. If the content ID is not set to 0, and the availability flag is set to 0, then there are many INDs (audio objects) that have the same content, so all Heading Key Entries that have the same content ID are found. This means that a search can be made that identifies a plurality of INDs (audio objects) corresponding to one content ID.

Track information (IND) is described below with reference to FIG. From FIG. 13B, it can be seen that each IND, as shown by the dashed line h2, includes General Track_Information (TKGI), Text_Data_Text_Data_Track_ Information (TKTXTI_DA) for recording text information unique to the IND, such as artist name, album name, arranger name, producer name, and Track_Time_Search_Table (TKTMSRT). in which the playback time is limited to 8.4 minutes.

As shown by arrow h3 in this drawing, General Track_Information (TKGI) includes various information elements (TKI_ID, TKIN, TKI_BLK_ATR, TKI_LNK_PTR, ISRC, BIT).

The identifier with which the track information can be uniquely determined is recorded in TKI_ID (in this embodiment, this ID is a 2-byte code "A4").

The track information number in the range 1 to 999 is recorded in TKIN.

The attribute for track information is recorded in TKI_BLK_ATR.

The following describes the settings TKI_BLK_ATR of each track information in the example shown in FIG. 11. By accessing TKI_BLK_ATR of each track information, it can be seen that since each of the four pairs is IND # 1 / АОВ001.SА1, IND # 2 / АОВ002.SА1, IND # 3 / АОВ003.SА1.

IND # 8 / АОВ008.SА1 corresponds to a separate track, then the field TKI_BLK_ATR of each IND # 1, IND # 2, IND # 3, IND # 8 is set to “Track”. The TKI_BLK_ATR IND # 4 field is set to “Begin Track”, the TKI_BLK_ATR IND # 7 field is set to “End_ Track” and the TKI_BLK_ATR IND # 5 and IND # 6 field is set to “Middle_ Track_ Point”. This means that the audio object file "AOB004.SA1" corresponding to IND # 4 is the beginning of the track, the audio object files "AOB005.SA1" and "AOB006.SA1" corresponding to IND # 5 and IND # 6 are the middle points of the track, and the audio object file "AOB007.SA1" corresponding to the IND # 7 is the end of the track.

The TKI_BLK_ATR field can be set so that it is easy to edit the union in which any two of the multiple tracks are combined to form one track, and the division edit in which one track is divided into many new tracks. In the following description, a change in the IND is considered when two tracks are combined.

14 shows how track information is set when two tracks are combined to form one new track. The following description is based on the assumption that the user has entered a merge editing execution command for the Track.C and Track.E tracks shown in FIG. 11 to form one new track. In this case, audio objects that match Track.C and Track. E are recorded in the audio object files "AOB003.SA1" and "AOB008.SA1". the corresponding IND # 3 and IND # 8, so that the TKI_BLK_ATR fields for IND # 3 and IND # 8 are overwritten. On Fig shows the fields TKI_BLK_ATR for these IND after rewriting. 11, the fields TKI_BLK_ATR for IND # 3 and IND # 8 are respectively recorded as Track.C and Track.E. However, in FIG. 14, the TKI_BLK_ATR field for IND # 3 is rewritten as "Start_Track.C", and the TKI_BLK_ATR field for IND # # 8 is rewritten as "End_Track.C". By overwriting the TKI_BLK_ATR fields in this way IND # 3, IND # 8, "AOB003.SA1", "AOB008.SA1", Title Key Record # 3 and Title Key Record # 8 are processed as part of one new track - "Track.C". During this operation, the Header Key Record # 3 and the Header Key Record # 8, corresponding to AOB003 and AOB008, give the original content identifiers “003” and “005” and the original encryption keys “KSh # 3” and “KSh # 5”.

The following is a description of the change in track information when a track is divided. On Fig presents an example in which a track is divided into two new tracks. This example assumes that the user has entered a command to edit Track.C track division. shown in Fig.11, for the formation of two tracks - "Track.C" and "Track.F". When "Track.C" is divided into "Track.C" and "Track.F", AOB # 3, forming Track.C, is divided into new audio objects. The number "009" is assigned to one of the new audio objects (a new audio object AOB009 is obtained), since the numbers between 001 and 008 are already assigned to the audio objects, and IND # 9 and Title Key Record # 9 are generated for the file "AOB009.SA1". This leads to a situation illustrated by FIG. The Record of the Heading Key # 9 includes the content ID "003" assigned to the audio object AOB003, and KSh # 3. used to encrypt the audio object AOB003.

The TKI_LNK_PTR field contains the track information number (TKIN) for the associated target track information. As shown by the arrows TL4, TL5, TL6 in FIG. 11, the TKI_LNK._PTR field for each of the information of the tracks IND # 4, IND # 5, IND # 6 and IND # 7 corresponding to the four audio object files making up Track.D is set so as to indicate the following track information.

The ISRC field contains the International Standard ISRC Record Code in TK.GI.

The BIT field (block information table) shows which part of the corresponding audio object is valid.

In the following description, the structure of the editing and reproducing apparatus 2 and the content management apparatus 3 according to the second embodiment of the invention are considered. The structure of the editing and reproducing apparatus 2 and the content management apparatus 3 in this embodiment are shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, respectively. These devices 2 and 3, corresponding to this embodiment, differ from the first embodiment (FIGS. 3B and 4) in that the editing and reproducing device 2 in question further includes a secure read / write unit 14, and the content management device 3 further includes block 26 secure read / write. When the editing and reproducing device 2 is connected to the SD memory card 100, the secure read / write unit 14 performs AOK processing with the SD memory card 100 using the BKN and the media ID and encrypts and decrypts the data using the session key Ks. In addition, when the content management device 3 is connected to the SD memory card 100, the secure read / write unit 26 performs AOK processing with the SD memory card 100 using the BKN and the media ID and encrypts and decrypts the data using the session key Ks. Therefore, the object dividing unit 12 and the object reproducing unit 11 of this editing and reproducing device 2 read each Header Key Record from the SD memory card 100 and write it to this card 100 through the secure read / write unit 14. Similarly, the output check unit 22 and the content ID assignment unit 24 of this content management device 3 read each Header Key Record from the SD memory card 100 and write it to this card 100 through the secure read / write unit 26. On Fig shows the internal structure of each of the blocks 14, 26 of a secure read / write. As shown in this drawing, each of the secure read / write blocks 14, 26 includes a secure write unit 31 and a secure read unit 32. The secure recording unit 31 has the structure shown in FIG. 19.

As shown in FIG. 19, the secure recording unit 31 includes a BKN processing unit 41, an ID processing unit 42, an ALC processing unit 43, an encryption unit 44 using a key Kmu, and an encryption unit 45 using a key Ks.

The BKN processing unit 41 reads the BKN stored in the system area of the SD memory card 100 and the device key Kd assigned by the manufacturer of the editing and reproducing device 2 and the content management device 3, and obtains a 56-bit encryption key Kd by performing a specific calculation using the BKN and a device key Kd, and then outputs the encryption key Km to the ID processing unit 42.

Upon receipt of the encryption key Km from the BKN processing unit 41, the ID processing unit 42 reads the media ID from the system area of the SD memory card 100 and performs a specific calculation to obtain a 64-bit calculation result, the lower 56 bits of which are output as the Kmu encryption key to block 43 processing the ALC and the encryption unit 44 using the encryption key Kmu.

The BKN processing unit 43 performs the BKN processing using the encryption key Kmu calculated by the ID processing unit 42 and the encryption key Kmu in the SD memory card 100. The AOC processing unit 43 then outputs the 56-bit session key Ks obtained from this calculation to the encryption unit 45 using Ks.

The encryption unit 44 using Kmu encrypts the Header Key Record, which is to be recorded on the SD memory card, using the Kmu encryption key obtained from the output of the ID processing unit 42, and provides it to the encryption unit 45 using Ks.

The encryption unit 45 using Ks encrypts the Header Key Record, which has already been encrypted by the encryption unit 44 using Kmu, using the 56-bit session key Ks received from the output of the AFC processing unit 43. The Header Key Record processed in this way is transferred to the SD memory card 100 and recorded in the protected area 103.

The internal structure of the secure reading unit 32, as shown in FIG. 20, comprises a BKN processing unit 51, an ID processing unit 52, an AOK processing unit 53, a decryption unit 54 using a key Ks and a decryption unit 55 using a key Kmu.

After the SD memory card 100 is connected to the editing and reproducing device 2 or to the content management device 3, the BKN processing unit 51 reads the BKN from the system area 101 and performs a specific calculation for the read BKN using the key of the device Kd, thereby obtaining 56- Km encryption byte key.

The ID processing unit 52 reads the media ID from the system area 101 of the connected SD memory card 100 and performs a specific calculation using the encryption key Km calculated by the BKN processing unit 51 and the read media ID to obtain a 64-bit calculation result, the lower 56 bits of which are output as the encryption key Kmu to the AOC processing unit 53 and to the decryption unit 55 using the Kmu key.

The AOC processing unit 53 performs the AOC processing together with the AOC processing unit 105 of the SD memory card 100 using the encryption key Kmu output from the ID processing unit 52, and provides a 56-bit calculation result to the decryption unit 54 using the Ks key.

The decryption unit 54 using the Ks key reads the Header Key Record stored in the secure area 103 and decrypts the read Header Key Record using the 56-bit session key Ks output from the AFC processing unit 53. Then, the decryption unit 54 using the key Ks outputs the decryption result to the decryption unit 55 using the key Kmu.

The decryption unit 55 using the Kmu key decrypts using the 56-bit decryption key Kmu calculated by the ID processing unit 52, thereby obtaining a Header Key Record.

As described above, a device attempting to access the protected area 103 of the SD memory card 100 must encrypt, decrypt and process the AAL using the session key Ks and the encryption key Kmu before accessing the protected area 103. This prevents unauthorized access devices to the protected area 103. Therefore, only an authorized device, such as the editing and reproducing device 2 and the content management device 3, can properly read data from the protected th area 103 and write data to this area.

The directory structure and the file structure of the local memory 20 are described below. FIG. 21 A shows the directory structure and the file structure of the local memory 20. As shown in this drawing, the local memory 20 includes a user area that is accessible even for a conventional application program, and A protected area that is available only to the licensed compliance module and is not available to other applications. Under the root directory in the user area there is a download directory for storing downloaded content. This download directory stores each content downloaded by the content management device 3 through EMD. 21A, the download directory contains 5 files (Content.A.pcj, Content.V.pcj, Content.C.pcj. Content.D.pcj and Content.E.pcj). Each of these files contains encrypted content and permission management information related to the content. As described in the first embodiment, the permission management information shows the number of permitted exit checks and the encryption key for the content.

The user area stores the distribution package management table. As shown in this drawing, the distribution package management table includes a pointer, a file path showing the storage location of the file storing the distribution package, and input content information showing the name of the artist, a content header corresponding to the distribution package. The user can find out the directory and file name of each content by accessing the distribution package management table.

The protected area of local memory 20 is described below. The protected area is an area for storing information, such as toll information, which cannot be modified by the user, and stores a history information table, which consists of many pieces of history information, each of which corresponds to one content . On fig.21D presents an example of a table of information history related to content from Content.A to Content.E, for which the number of permitted checks on the output are set, as shown in figs. According to FIG. 21C, each of the numbers of permitted exit checks A and B, which respectively refer to Content.A and Content.B, is set to two, so that exit checks can be performed twice for each content of Content.A and Content.B . Therefore, the background information A related to Content.A and the background information B related to Content.B includes two pairs of carrier ID and content ID. Also, according to figs, each of the numbers of allowed checks on the output CE, which respectively relate to Content.C - Content. E is set to one, so the exit check can be performed once for each of the contents of Content.C - Content.E. Therefore, each background information from C to E, respectively related to Content.C - Content.E, includes one pair of carrier ID and content ID.

On Fig presents a block diagram of the processing algorithm produced by the block 21 of the user interface, block 22 check output, block 23 assignment ID AOB and block 24 assignment ID content, in the process of checking the output from the local memory 20, which has a directory structure and files described above to the SD card 100 memory. The output check and input check in the second embodiment are described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

The user interface unit 21 in step S1 awaits the connection of the content management device 3 to the SD memory card 100. The user interface unit 21 displays a list of content input information in the distribution package management table in step S2. As described above, the introductory information of the content contains the name and artist name for each content. Therefore, the user can find out what content is stored in the download directory by accessing a list of input information for the content. The user interface unit 21 then obtains an indication of each content from the contents in the download directory, which should be subjected to exit verification in step S3. After receiving the instruction, processing proceeds to a processing cycle consisting of steps S4-S5 to process the first of the indicated contents. In the processing cycle, the operations of steps S6-S24 are repeatedly performed for each content indicated in step S3. In step S6, the output check unit 22 finds the file path for the first content and determines the location of the corresponding distribution package by referring to the distribution package management table. In step S7, the output check unit 22 decrypts the credential management information in the distribution packet using the public key distributed in advance. Since the credential management information includes the number of permitted exit checks and the encryption key for the first content, the exit check unit 22 may find out. how many times for the first content an exit check can be performed by accessing the decrypted credential management information. In step S8, the output check unit 22 makes a decision whether the number of allowed output checks is equal to zero or at least one. If the number of permitted exit checks is zero, then the exit check can no longer be performed on the first content, so that steps S9-S24 are skipped and the next content is processed. If the number of validated checks is at least one, then the processing proceeds from step S8 to step S9.

In step S9, after the AOC processing is performed by the SD memory card 100, the content ID assigning unit 24 accesses the file AOBSA1.KEY stored in the SD_AUDIO directory in the protected area. The AOBSA1.KEY file contains a Title Key Record for each AOB stored on the SD memory card 100, and each Title Key Record contains a content ID, so you can determine which content IDs are allocated on the SD memory card 100 by accessing the AOBSA1 file .KEY.

In step S10, the content ID assignment unit 24 selects the content ID for each AOB to be recorded from among the unassigned numbers from the available numbers 001-999. In step S11, the output check unit 22 reads the media ID from the SD memory card 100 and stores the read media ID. The content management device 3 thus obtains a content ID and a media ID. Following this, the content management device 3 records each AOB.

In step S12, the output check unit 22 sets the initial part, which has a playback time of not more than 8.4 minutes, from the current processed content as one AOB. As described above, each AOB is set so as to obtain a playback time of not more than 8.4 minutes in order to suppress the size of the playback control information including the time distribution table. In step S13, the AOB ID assignment unit 23 accesses the file entries in the SD_AUDIO directory in the user area. The reason for this is as follows. AOB file names include the corresponding AOB IDs and are listed as file entries in the SD_AUDIO directory.

This embodiment allows you to determine which audio object IDs have already been assigned to the audio objects on the SD memory card 100, simply by accessing the file records. Therefore, to find the ID of audio objects. which have already been assigned, the AOB ID assignment block 23 refers to the file records. In step S14, the AOB ID assignment unit 23 selects the AOB ID for each audio object to be recorded from the unassigned numbers that are available from 001-999. At step 815, the output check unit 22 opens the AOB file, the name of which includes the selected AOB ID, and writes the AOB to the open AOB file. Then, in step S16, the output check unit 22 determines track information (IND) from the plurality of INDs in the SD_AUDIO.TKM file that corresponds to the selected AOB ID, and stores the reproduction control information for the AOB in the specific IND.

In step S17, after the AOC processing is performed by the SD memory card 100, the output verification unit 22 stores the encryption key and the content ID selected in step S10 in the Header Key Record output from the Header Key Records in the AOBSA1.KEY file and the corresponding selected AOB ID. In step S18, the exit check unit 22 makes a decision whether the same content ID has already been stored in the file AOBSA1.KEY. If the decision result is negative, the processing proceeds to step S19, where the output check unit 22 sets the availability flag in the corresponding Title Key Record to “1”. On the other hand, if the decision result is negative, the processing proceeds to step S20, where the output check unit 22 sets the availability flag in the corresponding Title Key Record to “0”.

Thus, if the audio object corresponds to some content and is recorded in the SD_AUDIO directory, or if the first of the many audio objects corresponding to the content is recorded in the SD_AUDIO directory, then the access flag in the Title Key Record corresponding to the recorded AOB is set to “1”. If a lot of audio objects. corresponding to some content, and audio objects other than the first AOB are recorded in the SD_AUDIO directory, then the accessibility flag in each corresponding Title Key Record is set to "0".

After the setting of the availability flag is completed, the processing proceeds to step S21, where a decision is made as to whether there are any other parts of the content currently being processed that need to be processed. If the content has a playback time not exceeding 8.4 minutes, then there are no such parts of the content for processing, and the decision result in step S21 is negative (no), as a result of which the processing proceeds to step S23. If the content playback time exceeds 8.4 minutes, then there are parts of the content to be processed and the decision result in step S21 is positive (yes), as a result of which the processing proceeds to step S22. In step S22, the output check unit 22 generates AOB from the next portion of the content having a playback time not exceeding 8.4 minutes, and the processing proceeds to step S13. The audio object generated in step S22 is assigned a new AOB ID (steps S13 and S14), and it is stored in a file whose name includes the new AOB ID (step S15). By repeating the operations of steps S9-S20 until the decision result in step S21 is positive (yes), content with a long playback time (for example, 20 or 30 minutes) is recorded in the SD_AUDIO directory as a plurality of audio objects (for example, three or four audio objects).

After each audio object corresponding to the current content being processed is recorded in the SD_AUDIO directory, the processing proceeds to step S23, in which the AOB ID assignment unit 23 records a pair of carrier ID and content ID as historical information. Subsequently, in step S24, the number of permitted checks for accessing the credential management information is incremented, and the credential management information is again encrypted. In this way, each AOB corresponding to the current processed content is recorded on the SD memory card 100, and the processing by the exit check procedure is completed.

The following is a description of the processing of the entry verification procedure. On Fig presents a block diagram of the processing algorithm produced by the block 21 of the user interface and block 25 of the input check, in the process of checking the output from the SD memory card 100, which has the directory and file structures described above, on the SD card 100 memory. The input check in the second embodiment is described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

The input check unit 25 in step S30 waits for the content management device 3 to connect to the SD memory card 100. After the content management device 3 is connected to the SD memory card 100, the input verification unit 25 in step S31 reads the media ID from the SD memory card 100. At step S32, the input check unit 25 determines which AOB IDs have already been assigned on the SD memory card 100 by accessing the file entries in the SD_AUDIO directory in the user area. After it is determined in step S32 which AOB IDs have already been assigned, the processing proceeds to step S44, where an instruction is given from the operator for each AOB to be checked. Subsequently, the processing procedure proceeds to the processing cycle consisting of steps S33-S34. In this processing cycle, the operations of steps S35-S37 are repeatedly performed for each AOB ID assigned to the audio objects for which input verification is to be performed. In this embodiment, the operations of steps S33-S34 are repeatedly performed for each AOB ID specified by the operator from the AOB ID assigned on the SD memory card. However, the present invention is not limited to this option. For example, a user can indicate each track for which an input check should be performed, and an input check can be performed only for each AOB having a content ID that is the same as that for a specified track. In step S35, the input check unit 25 reads the content ID in the Title Key Record corresponding to one of the indicated AOB IDs from the file AOBSA1.KEY.

In step S36, the input check unit 25 makes a decision whether there is such a history information in the history information table that contains a pair of carrier IDs and a read content ID. If the decision result is positive, then the AOB corresponding to this historical information is an audio object for which the content management device 3 previously checked for output from the SD memory card 100. Therefore, the processing proceeds to step S37, where the input check unit 25 deletes the Header Key in the corresponding Header Key Entry by overwriting the Header Key with an arbitrary number. As a result, the corresponding audio object is set to an unplayable state. The processing described above is repeated for each AOB ID indicated in step S44. By repeating the operations in steps S35-S37, each AOB for which the content management device 3 has already performed an exit check is set to an irreproducible state. In step S40, the history information containing the pair of carrier ID and the content ID read in step S35 is deleted from the history information table. In step S41, the credential verification information having the content ID assigned to the content for which verification is performed upon entering the local memory 20 is decrypted using the public key distributed in advance. Then, the number of permitted exit checks included in the credential check information is incremented in step S42, and the credential check information is again encrypted in step S43. As a result, the credential verification information returns to the state before the exit check and again the check for the exit of the content becomes possible.

The following description relates to the operation of an object division unit 12 according to a second embodiment of the invention. An object division unit 12 corresponding to this embodiment of the invention is implemented by an executable program for processing in accordance with the algorithm shown in FIG. 24.

In step S51, the object dividing unit 12 instructs the user interface unit 10 to display the list of tracks recorded on the SD memory card 100 on the liquid crystal display, and receives an instruction from the operator about the AOB to be divided. After choosing AOB. to be divided, the playback control unit 11 in step S52 reproduces the selected AOB (source AOB) and the object division unit 12 awaits input of the editing point in step S53. After entering the editing point, the unit 12 dividing the object at step S54 sets the editing point for the reproduced AOB. In step S55, the object dividing unit 12 accesses the file records in the SD_AUDIO directory in the user area to detect the AOB ID assigned to the original AOB on the SD memory card 100. After that, in step S56, the object division unit 12 selects the AOB ID to be assigned to the new AOB generated by dividing the original AOB from among the unassigned numbers from the available numbers 001-999. Then, the object division unit 12 opens the AOB file, the file name of which includes the AOB ID selected in step S57. In step S59, the object dividing unit 12 partially deletes the AOB file corresponding to the original AOB, so that the AOB file contains only the initial part of the original AOB from the beginning of this AOB to the editing point. In step S59, the object dividing unit 12 stores the second part of the original AOB, from the editing point to the end of the original AOB, in the newly opened AOB file. In step S60, the object dividing unit 12 copies the playback control information corresponding to the source AOB to the track information IND corresponding to the selected AOB ID in the file SD_AUDIO.TKM. In step S61, after mutual authentication with the SD memory card, the object dividing unit 12 copies the encryption key and the content ID corresponding to the original AOB to the Header Key Record corresponding to the selected AOB ID in the AOBSA1.KEY file. In step S62, the object dividing unit 12 updates the BIT field for the original AOB so that only the initial part of the original AOB is reproduced, and updates the BIT field for the AOB to which the selected AOB ID is assigned so that the second part of the original AOB becomes reproducible.

The following description relates to input check and output check processing performed in an audio data reproduction control system according to a second embodiment of the invention. On Fig shows the initial state when the device 3 content management received 5 contents (Content.A - Content.E) through the network or from a CD (CD) and stored the contents in local memory 20 along with the corresponding information management authority A- E. Here, the number of permitted checks for output AE in the authorization management information AE are set as shown in block w1. The numbers of permitted checks on exit A and B corresponding to the contents of Content.A and Content.B are both set to "2", while the numbers of allowed checks on exit CE corresponding to the contents of Content.C-Content.E are set to "1". FIG. 26 shows a state where exit checks were performed for Content.A-Content.E contents until all the numbers of permitted exit checks became "0". Similar to that shown in FIGS. 10-12 and 14, the SD memory card 100 stores the Header Key Records # 1- # 8, audio objects 001-008 and IND # 1- # 8.

Audio objects 001-008 form five tracks (Track.A-Track.E), along with Heading Key Entries # 1- # 8 and IND # 1- # 8. These tracks are assigned a content ID and an AOB ID, as shown in block w2 (the information elements in this drawing correspond to each other in exactly the same way as in FIGS. 10-12 and 14). AOB 001 and 002, Header Key Records # 1 and # 2 and IND # 1 and # 2 corresponding to these audio objects are stored on the SD memory card 10. These audio objects are assigned a content ID and an AOB ID, as shown in block w3.

Since the exit check was performed twice for Content.A and Content.B, and the exit check was performed once for Content.C-Content.E, the number of permitted exit checks for all these contents was set to “0” as shown in block w4. Local memory 20 stores history information AE showing the history of exit checks for Content.A-Content.E contents, as shown in block w5. Content IDs assigned and stored in each SD memory card can be found by accessing the media ID and content ID pairs in the history information.

On Fig shows the state when the device 2 editing and playback generates new tracks by dividing track Track.C (AOB003) and track Track.В (AOB002), which were respectively recorded on SD memory cards 100 and 200, by checking exit. If the editing and reproducing apparatus 2 performs editing in the same way as shown in the example of FIG. 15, then the Track.F track including the audio object AOB009, as shown in block w6, and on the SD card are obtained on the SD memory card 100 200 memories receive a Track.C track including an AOB003 audio object, as shown in block w16. Although these audio objects are uniquely assigned AOB ID and IND ID, each of these newly formed by dividing the track of the audio object has a content ID that is the same as that of the original AOB, as shown in FIG. 27.

On Fig shows the processing performed in the control system for reproducing audio data corresponding to the second variant embodiment of the invention, after the match of the identifiers of the content. Since a coincidence of the content ID is determined, the Header Key Records # 1- # 9 on the SD memory card 100 and the Header Key Records # 1- # 3 on the SD memory card 200 are overwritten with random numbers. In this way, each AOB on the SD memory cards 100 and 200 is set to an irreproducible state. Following this, the number of permitted exit checks for Content.A-Content.E contents are incremented and set, as shown in block w7. Also, historical information related to these contents is deleted, as shown in block w8. The processing carried out in the audio data reproduction control system according to the second embodiment of the invention is described above. (FIG. 29 shows all the operations described above).

As described above, in the present embodiment, manipulation of the content ID becomes impossible since the Header Key Records are stored in a protected area 103, which is not available for devices whose authentication is not verified. This allows you to play and edit audio objects taking into account measures to protect content from illegal copying.

Detailed information about the data structures and various processing procedures disclosed in the first and second embodiments of the invention is described in the publications of international applications below, and therefore is not described in detail here.

WO 00/65602 (November 2, 2000)

WO 00/74054 (December 7, 2000)

WO 00/74059 (December 7, 2000)

WO 00/74060 (December 7, 2000)

The present invention is described above with specific embodiments, although it should be obvious that the present invention is not limited to the examples above. Other options are given in paragraphs (A) - (J) below.

(A) In the first and second embodiments, if new audio objects are generated by dividing a certain audio object, then the object dividing unit 12 assigns a content ID that is the same as the original AOB to each new AOB. However, the object division unit 12 may assign a content ID that has an equivalence relationship with the original AOB ID. For example, an object division unit 12 may assign a content ID in which some of the bits or numbers are the same as those in the content ID of the original AOB.

Also in the first and second embodiments, the input check unit 25 performs an input check of each AOB with a content ID that is the same as the ID of the original AOB. However, the input check unit 25 may perform an input check for each AOB with a content ID that is related to equivalence with the content ID of the original AOB. For example, the input check unit 25 may perform an input check for each AOB with a content ID in which some of the bits or numbers are the same as those in the content ID of the original AOB. For example, if the content AID of the original AOB is “001”, then the new AOB obtained by dividing the original AOB is assigned a Content ID “801”, in which the first and second digits are the same as in the content ID of the original AOB, and the third digit is set to a different value of "8". Or. if the content AID of the original AOB is “001”, then the new AOB obtained by dividing the original AOB is assigned a Content ID “8001”, in which the second, third and fourth digits coincide with the first, second and third digits of the content AID of the original AOB, and the first digit set to a different value of "8".

(B) Each encryption key and the corresponding pair of content ID and carrier ID can be stored on the semiconductor memory card 1 as a single data set. Those. 6-bit padding data “000000” can be added to each 10-bit content ID to obtain a 2-byte content ID, and 8-bit padding data “000000” can be added to each 56-bit encryption key to receive an 8-byte encryption key. Then, a 2-byte content ID and an 8-byte encryption key can be mixed with an 8-byte media ID to obtain a single 18-byte ID, and an 18-byte ID can be stored in the corresponding Header Key Record.

(C) The editing and reproducing apparatus 2 may be implemented as an integral part of a stereo system, a portable telephone, a personal electronic assistant or a personal computer. In addition, the device 2 editing and playback can be implemented as separate devices (editing device and playback device). In an embodiment on a personal computer, the content management device 3 may be in the form of a radio cassette player, a component of a stereo system or set-top box, which includes an internal memory device.

(D) In the first and second embodiments, the content management device 3 stores the originals of the contents as distribution formats. When checking the output, the content management device 3 converts the contents to AOB and writes AOB to the semiconductor memory card 1. However, the content management device 3 can save the original contents as audio objects and manage the audio objects by associating with each audio object a corresponding encryption key (Header Key) and authorization management information.

(E) Local memory 20 may store super distribution contents. Also, in the above embodiments, each content is delivered to a device in a local SDMI environment via a network. However, each content may be delivered to the device via a distribution system based on a satellite broadcasting system or via portable telephones. In addition, each content can be recorded on a recording medium, for example, a high-capacity drive for multi-purpose digital discs or an SD memory card, and delivered to the device in a local SDNI environment.

(F) A 10-bit content ID and a 54-bit arbitrary ID can be combined to obtain an 8-byte ID, and an 8-byte ID can be encrypted to obtain an 8-byte encrypted content ID. In this case, an 8-byte media ID is combined with an 8-byte encrypted content ID to obtain a 16-byte ID. A 54-bit arbitrary ID is, for example, the type of the corresponding content (audio or image), the type of the corresponding codec (for example, AAC or MP3) or the provider ID.

(G) a 10-bit content ID can be combined with a 54-bit arbitrary ID to obtain an 8-byte ID; An 8-byte ID can be encrypted to obtain an 8-byte encrypted content ID, and an 8-byte encrypted content ID can be stored in the corresponding Header Key Record. A 54-bit arbitrary ID may be, for example, a type of relevant content (audio or image), a type of corresponding codec (eg, AAC or MP3), or a provider ID. An 8-byte encrypted content ID can be combined with an 8-byte media ID to obtain a 16-byte ID: and a 16-byte ID can be stored in the corresponding Header Key Record.

(H) For a pair of 54-bit content key and 10-bit content ID, a hash function can be applied to obtain a hash value that can be stored in the corresponding Header Key Record. For example, in this case, SHA-1 is a usable hash function.

(I) In the first and second embodiments of the invention, it is possible for the editing and reproducing device 2, which is not provided with a licensed compliance module, to reproduce audio objects by decrypting the audio objects using encryption keys recorded on a semiconductor memory card. If “other processing” is required to set the content to a reproducible state, then the output check unit 22 may perform such “other processing” during the output check. Other processing may include, for example. re-encryption using a different encryption key.

(J) The processing procedures described in the above embodiments of the invention with reference to the functional diagrams and flowcharts of the algorithms (FIGS. 22-24) can be implemented using executable programs. In this case, executable programs are recorded on recording media, such as cards with integrated circuits, optical disks, floppy disks, for distribution or sale, and are installed on universal computers. Computers sequentially execute installed programs and implement the functions of a control device and an editing device in accordance with the first and second embodiments of the invention.

Industrial Applications

In the claimed audio data playback control system, which performs an output check and an input check for protection against illegal copying, it is possible to edit audio objects for which a check has been made for output to the semiconductor memory card 1. This enhances the user experience without compromising the interests of copyright holders. Thus, each manufacturer participating in the release of the content management device 3 and the editing and reproducing device 2 can increase the interest of device manufacturers by commercializing a highly efficient audio data management system that enhances user comfort without compromising the interests of copyright holders .

Even if the output is checked for the content received from the electronic distribution system of musical audio recordings, the audio data playback control system of the present invention enhances user convenience without compromising the interests of copyright holders. Therefore, the audio data playback control system of the present invention makes a significant contribution to the development of electronic distribution of music audio recordings and content distribution industries.

Claims (30)

1. An audio data playback management system comprising a portable recording medium, a license management device that performs (i) an operation for downloading protected content together with information management rights for the protected contents on the recording medium provided in the license management device, (ii) an exit verification operation, consisting of (a) recording on a portable recording medium the first audio object that is generated by copying the protected content, with the first identification information, is unambiguous on the verification of the exit identifying the operation, and (b) the reduction by one of the allowed number of exit checks, which is included in the rights management information and which indicates how many times it is allowed to copy the protected content, and (iii) the entrance verification operation, consisting of (a ) setting the first audio object stored on the portable recording medium to an irreproducible state and (b) increasing the unit of the allowed number of output checks by one, and a portable editing device that (a) edits the first audio an object for generating a second audio object, (b) generates a second identification information by copying the first identification information stored with the first audio object on the portable recording medium, the second identification information being identical to the first identification information, and (c) recording the second audio object with the second identification information on the portable the recording medium, while the portable editing device contains a playback unit for reproducing the first audio of the object and the second audio object, and in the input verification operation, the license management device increases by one the allowed number of exit checks in response to setting into irreproducible state any second audio object stored in a portable recording medium with second identification information identical to the first identification information stored with the first audio object that is set to an unplayable state. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the license management device performs a plurality of output verification operations, so that a plurality of first audio objects are generated, and each part of the first identification information distinguishes the first audio object recorded by a particular one of the output verification operations from another an audio object recorded by another output check operation. 3. The system according to claim 1, in which the editing carried out by the portable editing device, is a division of the first audio object to generate a second audio object, while the portable editing device records on the portable recording medium the second audio object generated by division, with the second identification information. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the license management device comprises the unit for recording the identifier (ID) of the first object, which, when recording the first audio object on a portable recording medium, acts to (a) determine any object ID assigned to the audio object stored on the portable recording medium, (b) select as the ID of the first object not yet assigned an ID object and (c) recording the selected ID of the first object on a portable recording medium so as to assign the ID of the first object to the first audio object, the portable editing device further comprises a unit for recording the ID of the second object, which, when generating the second audio object as a result of dividing the first audio object, acts to (a) determine any object ID assigned to the audio object stored on the portable recording medium, (b) select the second object as the ID an unassigned object ID and (c) recording the selected ID of the second object on a portable recording medium so as to assign the ID of the second object to the second audio object, and the license management device performs an entry verification operation on any second audio object corresponding to the ID of the second object and the second identification information. 5. The system according to claim 1, in which, in the exit check operation, the license management device (a) reads from the portable recording medium information about the recording medium that uniquely identifies the portable recording medium, (b) generates information on the history of checks for exiting the information on the medium and the first identification information that is recorded on the portable recording medium with the first audio object, and (c) stores the history information of the exit checks in the license management device, and the license management device mi performs an entry verification operation on any second audio object that is stored on a portable recording medium that is assigned media information identical to the information of the medium included in the output verification history information, and which corresponds to the second identification information identical to the first identification information included information on the history of exit checks. 6. The system according to claim 1, in which the license management device writes control information to the portable recording medium with the audio object, the control information comprising a temporary search table having a plurality of data elements, each of which determines the location of a point in the audio object at predetermined time intervals, the playback time of the audio object is limited so that the number of data elements in the temporary search table does not exceed a predetermined number, wherein the license management device contains a decision unit for deciding whether the playing time of the protected content exceeds a predetermined period of time, the recording unit of the first object, which, if the decision is made by the decision making unit, forms the first audio object from the protected content and records the first audio object on a portable recording medium, and the recording unit of the second object, which, if the decision is made positive by the decision making unit, forms a plurality of first audio objects from the protected content and writes to the portable recording medium a plurality of first audio objects with a plurality of parts of the first identification information having the same value. 7. A license management device that performs (i) an operation for downloading protected content together with information management rights for protected contents on a recording medium provided in the license management device, (ii) an exit verification operation consisting of (a) recording on a portable recording medium the first audio object that is generated by copying the protected content, with the first identification information that uniquely identifies the output verification operation, and (b) decreasing the number of allowed numbers an exit check, which is included in the rights management information and which indicates how many times it is allowed to copy protected content, and (iii) an entry check operation, consisting of (a) setting the first audio object stored on the portable recording medium to an unplayable state and (b) an increase in the unit of the permitted number of exit checks, moreover, the license management device contains a storage unit for storing the first identification information, a reading unit for performing an input verification operation for reading the second identification information corresponding to the second audio object from the portable target recording medium, a decision unit providing a decision on whether the second audio object is identical to the first audio object by comparing the second identification information with the first identification information, and an input check unit, which, if the decision is made positive by the decision unit, performs an input check operation on the second audio object. 8. The device according to claim 7, in which the license management device performs many exit verification operations so that a plurality of first audio objects are generated, and each part of the first identification information distinguishes a first audio object recorded by a particular one of the output verification operations from another audio object recorded by a different output verification operation. 9. The device of claim 8, in which in the exit verification operation, the license management device (a) reads from the portable recording medium information on the recording medium that uniquely identifies the portable recording medium, (b) generates information on the history of checks on exit from the information on the medium and the first identification information recorded on the portable medium recordings with the first audio object, and (c) saves the history information of the exit checks in the license management device, and in the input verification operation, the license management device performs an input verification operation on any second audio object that is stored on a portable recording medium that is assigned media information identical to the information of the medium included in the output verification history information, and which corresponds to the second identification information identical to the first identification information included in the output verification history information. 10. A portable editing device that is used in an audio data reproduction management system comprising a license management device that performs (i) a secure content loading operation together with protected content rights management information on a recording medium provided in the license management device, (ii) a verification operation output, consisting of (a) recording on a portable recording medium of the first audio object that is generated by copying the protected content, with the first identifier information that uniquely identifies the exit verification operation, and (b) reduces by one the allowed number of exit checks, which is included in the rights management information and which indicates how many times it is allowed to copy protected content, and (iii) the entry verification operation, which consists of from (a) setting the first audio object stored on the portable recording medium to an irreproducible state; and (b) increasing by one the number of allowed exit checks, the portable device being edited I edits the first audio object stored on a portable recording medium, and comprises a reading unit for reading first identification information from a portable recording medium, an editing unit for editing a first audio object to generate a second audio object, and a recording unit for generating second identification information by copying the first identification information stored with the first audio object on the portable recording medium, and for recording the second audio object with the second identification information on the portable recording medium, the second identification information being identical to the first identification information. 11. The device according to claim 10, in which the license management device performs many output verification operations, so that many first audio objects are generated, and each part of the first identification information distinguishes the first audio object recorded by a particular one of the output verification operations from another an audio object recorded by another output check operation. 12. The device according to claim 11, in which the editing carried out by the portable editing device, is a division of the first audio object to generate a second audio object, while the portable editing device records on the portable recording medium a second audio object generated by division, with the second identification information. 13. A portable recording medium for use by a license management device and a portable editing device that are included in the audio data reproduction management system, the license management device performing (i) an operation for downloading the protected content along with the information for managing the rights of the protected content to the recording medium provided in the management device licenses, (ii) an exit verification operation consisting of (a) recording on a portable recording medium of a first audio object, which generated by copying the protected content, with the first identification information that uniquely identifies the exit verification operation, and (b) decreasing by the unit the allowed number of exit checks, which is included in the rights management information and which indicates how many times it is allowed to copy the protected content, and (iii ) an input verification operation, consisting of (a) setting the first audio object stored on the portable recording medium in an irreproducible state and (b) increasing by one allowed chi exit checks, while the portable recording medium contains first identification information that distinguishes a first audio object recorded by a particular one of a plurality of output verification operations performed by the license management device from another audio object recorded by another output verification operation, a second audio object that is generated by the portable editing device by editing the first audio object, and second identification information, which corresponds to the second audio object and which is identical to the first identification information. 14. The storage medium according to item 13, which is made in the form of a semiconductor memory card containing a protected area in which the first identification information and the second identification information are recorded and which is accessible to the device, the authenticity of which is verified, and the unprotected area in which the first audio object is recorded and the second audio object and which is available for the device regardless of whether its authenticity is confirmed. 15. A portable recording medium for use in a system comprising a license management device that performs a plurality of exit verification operations, wherein each exit verification operation is performed by (a) recording at least one audio object on a portable recording medium; and (b) decreasing the number of exit checks per unit, while the portable recording medium contains a media ID previously stored on it, the media ID uniquely identifying the portable recording medium, and a first audio track containing a first audio object and a content ID that are recorded by one of the output verification operations, moreover, a pair consisting of a media ID and a content ID, uniquely identifies one of the output verification operations. 16. The medium of claim 15, wherein the first audio track further comprises a track ID, wherein when the first audio track is combined with a second audio track corresponding to another exit verification operation, the track ID is updated to indicate that the first audio track should be played with the second audio track, and the content ID distinguishes the first audio track from the second audio track, even if the first audio track is combined with the second audio track. 17. The media according to clause 15, in which the first audio track further comprises a track ID, moreover, the track ID distinguishes the first audio track from the second audio track obtained by dividing the first audio track, and The content ID indicates that the first audio track and the second audio track correspond to the same output check operation. 18. The carrier of claim 17, wherein the first audio object is assigned the object ID, wherein the object ID distinguishes the first audio object from the second audio object in the second audio track, and The content ID indicates that the first audio object and the second audio object correspond to the same output check operation. 19. The recording medium according to clause 15, in which the first audio track additionally contains the international standard recording code ISRC, while this ISRC code and ISRC code in the second audio track have the same value, and the content ID distinguishes the first audio track from the second audio tracks, wherein the second audio track corresponds to another output check operation. 20. The medium of claim 15, wherein the first audio track comprises a plurality of first audio objects corresponding to the same content, with a playback time exceeding a predetermined time duration, each of the plurality of first audio objects corresponding to the same content ID. 21. The medium of claim 15, which is in the form of a semiconductor memory card, wherein the semiconductor memory card contains a protected area in which the content ID is recorded and which is accessible to the device whose authenticity is verified, and an unprotected area in which the first audio objects are recorded and which available to the device regardless of whether its authenticity is confirmed. 22. A license management device that performs (i) an exit verification operation consisting of (a) recording on an portable recording medium an audio track and (b) decreasing by a unit the number of exit checks that is included in the rights management information and which indicates how many times it is allowed to copy the audio track and (ii) an input verification operation consisting of (a) setting the audio track stored on the portable recording medium to an unplayable state and (b) increasing by one is allowed the number of exit checks, and the license management device contains a storage unit for storing (i) the permitted number of exit checks, which is included in the rights management information and which indicates how many times the first audio track is allowed to be copied, and (ii) the exit check history information that contains a media ID that uniquely identifies a recording medium on which the first audio track is recorded, and a content ID included in the first audio track, a connection unit for connecting a target portable recording medium on which a media ID and a second audio track are recorded, the second audio track being an audio track for which input verification is performed, a decision unit that, when the target portable recording medium is connected, makes a decision on whether the history information of the checks on the output from the media ID on the target portable recording medium is consistent with the content ID in the second audio track, and an input check unit, which, if the decision is made positive by the decision block, performs an input check operation on the second audio track. 23. A portable editing device that edits the first audio track recorded on a portable recording medium, wherein the first audio track is assigned a track ID, and the first audio track contains a first audio object with a content ID, and a media ID is recorded on the portable recording medium, the portable editing device contains an editing unit for editing a first audio track to generate a second audio track, and an identification information assignment unit for assigning a new track ID and content ID to the second audio track, the new track ID uniquely identifying the second audio track, and the assigned content ID is identical to the content ID in the first audio track. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the portable recording medium stores a plurality of audio tracks, wherein editing by the editing unit is a combination of two or more audio tracks to generate a second audio track. 25. The device according to item 23, in which the editing performed by the editing unit, is a division of the first audio track to generate a second audio track, while the identification information assignment unit assigns a new track ID and content ID to the second audio track, and the new track ID is uniquely identifies the second audio track, and the assigned content ID is identical to the content ID in the first audio track. 26. The device according A.25, in which the first audio object in the first audio track is assigned an object ID, and the identification information assignment unit assigns a new object ID to the second audio object in the second audio track, the new object ID uniquely identifying the second audio object. 27. A computer-readable recording medium on which a program is recorded for a computer to perform (i) a secure content download operation together with protected content rights management information on a recording medium provided in a license management device, (ii) an exit verification operation consisting of (a) recording on a portable recording medium of a first audio object that is generated by copying the protected content, with first identification information that uniquely identifies the output verification operation, and (b) a decrease per unit of the allowed number of exit checks, which is included in the rights management information and which indicates how many times it is allowed to copy protected content, and (iii) the input verification steps, consisting of (a) setting the first audio object stored on a portable recording medium, to an irreproducible state and (b) an increase in the unit of the allowed number of exit checks, while the program contains a step in the exit check operation for reading information on the recording medium that uniquely identifies the portable recording medium, generating background information of checks for exiting the information on the recording medium and the first identification information recorded on the portable recording medium with the first audio object, and storing the history information computer exit checks, a decision-making step performed in the entry verification operation to decide whether the history information of the exit checks from the recording medium ID on the target portable recording medium is consistent with the content ID on the second audio track, and an input verification step, in which with a positive decision result, at the decision making step, an input verification operation is performed on the second audio track. 28. A computer-readable recording medium on which a program is recorded for the computer to edit the first audio track, wherein the first audio track is assigned a track ID, and the first audio track includes a first audio object with a content ID, the program comprising an editing step for editing the first audio track to generate a second audio track; and a step of assigning identification information to assign a new track ID and content ID to the second audio track, wherein the new track ID uniquely identifies the second audio track, and the assigned content ID is identical to the content ID in the first audio track. 29. A method for a computer to perform (i) a secure content download operation together with protected content rights management information on a recording medium provided in a license management device, (ii) an output verification operation consisting of (a) recording a first audio object on a portable recording medium, which is generated by copying the protected content, with the first identification information that uniquely identifies the exit verification operation, and (b) decreasing by the unit the permitted number of exit checks, which is included in the rights management information and which indicates how many times it is allowed to copy protected content, and (iii) an input verification operation consisting of (a) setting the first audio object stored on the portable recording medium in an unplayable state and (b) increasing unit of the allowed number of exit checks, the method comprising a step in the exit verification operation for reading information on the recording medium that uniquely identifies the portable recording medium, generating information on the history of checks for exiting information on the recording medium and the first identification information recorded on the portable recording medium with the first audio object, and storing information the history of checks on the exit to the computer, a decision step carried out in the input verification operation to decide whether the history information of the exit checks from the recording medium ID on the target portable recording medium and the content ID in the second audio track are consistent; and an input verification step, in which with a positive decision result, at the decision making step, an input verification operation is performed on the second audio track. 30. A method for a computer to edit a first audio track recorded on a portable recording medium, wherein the first audio track is assigned a track ID, and the first audio track includes a first audio object with a content ID, and the recording medium ID is recorded on the portable recording medium, the method comprising an editing step for editing the first audio track to generate a second audio track; and a step of assigning identification information to assign a new track ID and content ID to the second audio track, wherein the new track ID uniquely identifies the second audio track, and the assigned content ID is identical to the content ID in the first audio track.

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