WO2006109393A1

WO2006109393A1 - Sequential content distribution device, sequential content reception device, and method thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2006109393A1
Application number: PCT/JP2006/305103
Authority: WO
Inventors: Noboru Sonehara; Naohiko Kamae; Mayumi Koike
Original assignee: Inter-University Research Institute Corporation Research Organization Of Information And Systems
Priority date: 2005-03-31
Filing date: 2006-03-15
Publication date: 2006-10-19
Also published as: JP2006285533A; JP4734563B2

Abstract

According to the invention, a content to be sequentially distributed is divided into a plurality of fragments. The invention concerns a device which includes a content division section for obtaining fragmented content data maintaining visible/audible characteristic, a content storage section for storing the fragmented content data in random order in a storage device, a distribution request analysis section for analyzing the distribution request from the reception device and reading out the content data stored in the storage device according to the order specified in the distribution request, and a content distribution section for sequentially distributing the fragmented content data according to the order specified in the distribution request.

Description

Specification

Sequential content delivery device, sequential content reception device and method

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sequential 'content distribution device, a sequential' content distribution request device, and a method thereof. More specifically, in a content distribution system including at least a content distribution server that accumulates and sequentially distributes content via a communication line such as the Internet, and a content reception device that receives and sequentially reproduces the content. The present invention relates to a technique for effectively preventing unauthorized use of content from a distribution server and realizing prevention of unauthorized use of the content at both a server and a receiving device at a low load.

Background art

Conventionally, various on-demand digital content distribution systems have been proposed that distribute content stored and recorded in a content distribution server in response to a distribution request from a content receiving device. In these conventional content distribution systems, individual content to be distributed, for example 20 minutes of moving images, is stored and recorded as a unit in the storage device of the content distribution server, and the distribution of content receiving devices is requested. Delivered in response to.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes that content stored on a content server is encrypted using a key collection information including a user identification information and a pay information purchase password in a fee collection proxy server, and the content receiving device Disclosed is a technology for decrypting distributed encrypted content using its own user identification information and paid information purchase password.

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses a technology for distributing content from a content 'sano in which the corresponding content is stored after determining the location of the content to be distributed among a plurality of content' servers. On the other hand, in Patent Document 3, when content is distributed, the content that has been produced in advance from a part of the content or separately produced is distributed as sample content, and if there is a subsequent distribution request, The whole A technique for transmitting is disclosed.

[0005] In the above content distribution system, one content to be distributed is one file that is stored and managed in the content distribution server, and is acquired by the content reception device. By doing so, the content can be viewed and reproduced. Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-325458

Patent Document 2: JP 2002-78812 A

Patent Document 3: JP 2002-63187

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0006] However, the above-described conventional on-demand content distribution system has the following problems.

[0007] First, the conventional content distribution system must manage and store as a single file in the content distribution server in order to manage the content to be distributed as a single unit. Such a content distribution server that manages the content to be distributed as one file can directly acquire the stored file and illegally view and play back the content by, for example, unauthorized access using hacking, virus, knock door, etc. Invite illegal acts.

[0008] Second, when content is distributed, for example, as disclosed in the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-325458, processing for encrypting one file as a whole is required in response to a distribution request or in advance. It is said. However, content encryption is typically understood as being performed by generating a random number according to the encryption key and taking the exclusive OR of the content and the random number. As described above, encryption processing is heavily loaded depending mainly on the amount of data. Therefore, both the content distribution server and the content receiving device have a remarkably high load required for encryption / decryption of a huge amount of content such as video.

[0009] Thirdly, when it is desired to partially view the content stored and managed in the content distribution server, for example, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-63187, the content is cut out in advance and produced. Prepare sample content, which is separate from the content itself, and It must be stored and managed in association. Even in the content receiving apparatus, since it is necessary to separately identify and process the distribution request for the sample content and the distribution request for the content body, the processing is complicated.

[0010] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and its purpose is to make it difficult for an unauthorized user to normally receive and view and reproduce content, and to provide content only to authorized users. Sequential 'content distribution device, sequential' that can easily realize the distribution, reception and playback of content that can be normally viewed and played back without imposing a heavy load on both the distribution server and the receiving device It is an object of the present invention to provide a content distribution request apparatus and method.

[0011] Further, another object of the present invention is to provide a sequential 'content distribution device, a sequential content distribution request device, and a device that facilitates trial viewing of content without producing and storing sample content in advance. It is to provide a method.

Means for solving the problem

[0012] The principle of the present invention is that, in a content distribution server that accumulates and distributes content to be sequentially distributed, the content to be distributed is divided into a plurality of fragments or portions, and each fragment is randomly selected, that is, Stores and stores in the storage device in an unordered state, and sequentially delivers the fragment content data stored and stored at the location specified in the distribution request in response to the distribution request from the content receiving device It is. Only when the content receiving apparatus makes a distribution request by designating the order or position, the sequential content distribution according to the order is executed.

Therefore, according to the present invention, since a distribution request is not transmitted correctly by a legitimate user! As long as the content is not normally viewed and reproduced in the content receiving apparatus, Normal viewing / playback of content is effectively prevented.

[0014] At the same time, since content encryption is performed on each piece of fragmented content data, the processing in the content distribution server and the content receiving device is significantly reduced.

[0015] Furthermore, the sample content used for viewing the sample content performed by the user for the purpose of deciding to purchase the content is fragmented or stored in the content distribution server. , Is Since it can be dynamically created as needed using partial sequences of content data stored as parts, processing related to sample content production and management is reduced, and convenience is improved. improves.

In the present specification and claims, “content” refers to all types of digital data exemplified by video, music, electronic books, etc. .

In addition, “sequential playback” refers to, for example, video data stored by dividing each scene or every predetermined time, or contents such as electronic books stored by dividing each page in a predetermined order. The contents are played sequentially, and these contents are displayed as sequential information, thereby displaying information value.

[0018] Furthermore, in the following, the “fragment or part” of the content to be distributed will be referred to as “fragment” when the content is divided in a predetermined short time relative to the “part”. On the other hand, “part” is a term used when content is divided for a long time or a predetermined scene, chapter, movement, etc., relative to “fragment”. “Part” is a non-boundary concept, and in the following and claims, simply “fragment” refers to both “fragment” and “part” of the content in the above meaning. .

[0019] According to a feature of the present invention, a content dividing unit that divides content to be delivered sequentially into a plurality of fragments and obtains fragmented content data in which each of the fragments is maintained in viewability. A content storage unit that stores the fragmented content data in a storage device in a random order; and a distribution request for receiving device power is analyzed, and the fragmented content data is stored in the storage device according to the order specified in the distribution request. A distribution request analysis unit that reads the fragmented content data, and a content distribution unit that sequentially distributes the read fragmented content data according to the order specified in the distribution request. A sequential 'content distribution device characterized by the above is provided.

[0020] The content distribution unit may encrypt each of the read fragmented content data and sequentially distribute the fragmented content data. [0021] The content storage unit stores and holds the order in which the fragmented content data is stored in a storage device, and the distribution request analysis unit stores and holds the order specified in the distribution request. The content distribution unit may be instructed to distribute the fragmented content data only when the order is incorrect.

[0022] The content storage unit stores and holds the order in which the fragmented content data is stored in a storage device, and the distribution request analysis unit stores and holds the order specified in the distribution request. If the order does not match, the fragmented content data is delivered to the content delivery unit in the order specified in the delivery request for a predetermined length shorter than the entire content. It ’s something that tells you.

[0023] According to another feature of the present invention, content to be delivered sequentially is divided into a plurality of fragments, and each of the fragments is input with an order of fragmented content data in which viewability is maintained. And a content request unit that generates a content distribution request including the input order and transmits the content distribution request to the content distribution device, and the distributed fragmented content data is combined, Alternatively, a sequential content delivery requesting device is provided, which is played back in the order received.

[0024] The sequential 'content distribution requesting device further combines the content receiving unit that receives the distributed fragmented content data and the received fragment or content data, or reproduces them in the order received. And a content playback unit.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present invention, content to be sequentially distributed is divided into a plurality of fragments, and each of the fragments obtains fragmented content data in which viewability is maintained. And a content storage unit for storing the fragmented content data in a random order in association with position information indicating a storage position in the storage device of the fragmented content data next to the fragmented content data And analyzing the distribution request from the receiving device, and according to the order specified in the distribution request, the fragmented content data stored in the storage device and the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data. A distribution request analysis unit that reads position information, the fragmented content data that has been read, and the next of the fragmented content data Sequential position information of fragmented Conte Nddeta, according to the order specified in the delivery request A sequential content delivery apparatus is provided that includes a content delivery unit that delivers content to a network.

[0026] According to another feature of the present invention, content to be delivered sequentially is divided into a plurality of fragments, and each of the fragments is content delivery of fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained. A content distribution device including a position information input unit for inputting position information in the storage device on the device side, the input position information and the position information received by the content distribution device, and generating a content distribution request. Provided by a sequential content delivery requesting device characterized in that the distributed fragmented content data is combined or reproduced in the order received. Is done.

[0027] According to another aspect of the present invention, dividing content to be delivered sequentially into a plurality of fragments, each of the fragments obtaining fragmented content data in which viewability is maintained; Storing the fragmented content data in a storage device in a random order; analyzing the distribution request of the receiving device; and storing the fragmented content data in the storage device in accordance with the order specified in the distribution request. A sequential content distribution method, the method comprising: reading fragmented content data; and sequentially distributing the read fragmented content data in the order specified in the distribution request. Is provided.

[0028] According to another feature of the present invention, content to be delivered sequentially is divided into a plurality of fragments, and each of the fragments is input with an order of fragmented content data in which viewability is maintained. And generating the content distribution request including the input order and sending it to the content distribution device, and the distributed fragmented content data is combined or received in the received order. A sequential 'content delivery request method is provided, which is characterized by being played back on the Internet.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention, dividing content to be delivered sequentially into a plurality of fragments, each of the fragments obtaining fragmented content data in which viewability is maintained; The fragmented content data is related to position information indicating a storage position in the storage device of the fragmented content data next to the fragmented content data. In addition, the step of storing in the storage device in a random order, the distribution request from the receiving device is analyzed, the fragmented content data stored in the storage device according to the order specified in the distribution request, and the The step of reading the position information of the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data, the position information of the fragmented content data read out and the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data, A sequential delivery method characterized in that it includes the step of delivering sequentially according to the order specified in the delivery request.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, content to be distributed sequentially is divided into a plurality of fragments, and each of the fragments is content distribution of fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained. A step for inputting location information in the storage device on the device side, the input location information and the location information received from the content delivery device is generated, and a content delivery request is generated and transmitted to the content delivery device. And providing the sequential content delivery request method, wherein the distributed fragmented content data is combined or reproduced in the order received.

[0031] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sequential 'content distribution program for causing a computer to execute a sequential content distribution process, wherein the program sends content to be sequentially distributed to the computer. The content is divided into a plurality of fragments, and each of the fragments is fragmented to obtain fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained, and the fragmented content data is stored in a storage device in a random order. A content storage process; a distribution request analysis process for analyzing the distribution request from the receiving device; and reading the fragmented content data stored in the storage device in accordance with an order specified in the distribution request; The fragmented content data is sequenced according to the order specified in the delivery request. A sequential content distribution program characterized in that it executes a process including a content distribution process that distributes to a local content.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sequential 'content distribution request program for causing a computer to execute a sequential' content distribution request process. The program divides content to be sequentially delivered to the computer into a plurality of fragments, and each of the fragments inputs the order of fragmented content data that maintains the viewability. And a content request that includes the input order and generates a content distribution request and transmits the content request to the content distribution device. The distributed fragmented content data is combined. Or a sequential content delivery request program characterized by being played back in the order received or received.

[0033] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sequential 'content distribution program for causing a computer to execute a sequential content distribution process, wherein the program sends content to be sequentially distributed to the computer. The content is divided into a plurality of fragments, and each of the fragments is fragmented to obtain fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained, and the fragmented content data is fragmented next to the fragmented content data. The content storage process that stores the content data in the storage device in a random order in association with the location information indicating the storage location of the content data in the storage device, and the distribution request from the receiving device are analyzed, and the order specified in the distribution request The fragmented content data stored in the storage device and the fragmented code The distribution request analysis process for reading the position information of the fragmented content data next to the content data, the read fragmented content data, and the position information of the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data are distributed. A sequential content distribution program is provided, which is characterized by causing processing including content distribution processing to be sequentially distributed according to the order specified in the request.

[0034] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sequential 'content distribution program for causing a computer to execute a sequential' content distribution process', wherein the program sends the content to be sequentially distributed to the computer. Divide into multiple pieces, and each piece of fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained is inputted with position information input processing for inputting position information in the storage device on the content distribution device side, and input Including the received location information and the location information received from the content distribution device, and generates a content distribution request and transmits it to the content distribution device. A sequence that is characterized in that the fragmented content data distributed is played back in the order received or combined. A program is provided. The invention's effect

[0035] According to the present invention, it is possible to remarkably make difficult the normal reception and viewing / reproduction of content by an unauthorized user.

[0036] In addition, content distribution, reception, and reproduction that allow only normal users to normally view and reproduce content can be easily realized without imposing a heavy load on either the distribution server or the receiving device. The

[0037] Furthermore, the convenience in trial viewing of content that does not require sample content creation and storage in advance is improved, and the burden associated with sample content production is reduced.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a system configuration of a sequential content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the sequential distribution server 1 according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of fragmented content data stored in an external storage device by the content storage unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the sequential receiving apparatus 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram showing an example of distribution and reproduction images of fragmented content data when distribution requests are made in the correct order.

FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram showing an example of distribution and reproduction images of fragmented content data when distribution requests are made in the wrong order.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a modification of the system configuration of the sequential content delivery system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of fragmented content data stored in an external storage device by the content storage unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a sequential reception device 7 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a timing chart showing an example of a data flow when content purchase is permitted in the sequential content distribution system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing an example of a data flow when content purchase is rejected in the sequential content distribution system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a sequential distribution device and a Z or sequential reception device according to each embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

[0039] 101 Human Resources Department

103 Content division

105 Contenso grade yarn

107 Distribution request analysis part

109 Content

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0041] <First embodiment>

(1) Configuration of Sequential Content Distribution System According to First Embodiment FIG. 1 shows a sequential distribution server 1 and a sequential reception device 2 according to the first embodiment and a second embodiment described later. 'A configuration example of the content distribution system is shown.

The sequential distribution server 1 includes an external storage device 3 that stores content to be distributed.

[0043] The sequential distribution server 1 and the sequential receiving device 2 are connected to a network via a communication line 4 such as the Internet, for example. The network further includes a license 'server 6 that permits the sequential receiver 2 to purchase content. May be connected.

[0044] The sequential distribution server 1 receives the distribution request from the sequential reception device 2, and sequentially stores the pieces or parts of the content stored and stored in the external storage device 3 to the sequential reception device 2. To deliver. In the external storage device 3, the content to be distributed is divided into a plurality of fragments or parts, and is randomly stored out of order.

[0045] On the other hand, the sequential receiving device 2 enables the user to view and reproduce the content by combining the pieces or portions of the sequentially distributed content and performing sequential reproduction.

[0046] (2) Configuration and operation of sequential distribution server 1

FIG. 2 shows an example of a functional configuration of the sequential distribution server 1 according to the present embodiment. The sequential distribution server 1 includes a distribution control unit 10, a content input unit 101, a content division unit 103, a content storage unit 105, a distribution request reception unit 107, and a content distribution unit 109.

[0047] The distribution control unit 10 controls the content input unit 101, the content dividing unit 103, the content storage unit 105, the distribution request receiving unit 107, and the content distribution unit 109, and the sequential distribution server 1 controls the distribution control. Operates according to the control of part 10.

[0048] The content input unit 101 receives input of content to be stored and distributed.

In the following explanation, for example, assume that video content C having a playback time of 17 minutes is input. Of course, this embodiment does not limit the type of content to be input and its input means. Any type of content that needs to be played back sequentially, such as content that is played back sequentially, such as video and music, e-books, continuous photos, etc., is played continuously. Content or the like. In addition to the means for directly accepting content input, the input means may read content recorded on an arbitrary external recording medium such as a CD-ROM, DVD, or MO and accept it as input.

[0049] The content dividing unit 103 divides the input content C into a plurality of fragments or portions. Here, we assume that 17-minute video content is divided every 30 seconds, Content C is divided into 34 pieces from C001 to C034. Needless to say, this embodiment does not limit the specific content dividing method and means. For example, the length of each fragment may be variable, and may be divided for each scene or finely divided every second. The divided individual fragments are preferably contents that can be reproduced by each fragment alone, or cannot be reproduced unless they are combined in the correct order. The fragmented content may be further divided into smaller parts. For example, the image may be divided into two parts, upper half and lower half, and divided into four parts, such as upper left 'upper right''lowerleft' and lower right.

[0050] The content storage unit 105 stores the divided pieces or portions of the content in the external storage device 3 in an unordered manner, that is, in a random order.

FIG. 3 shows an example of a content storage image in the present embodiment. Fragmented † This content data can be stored in the following order: Position 0001 [This C011 (31), Position 0002 [This C034 (33)], Position 0003 [This C029 (35), Position 0004 [This C0001 (37) ), This is stored so that the order before and after the contents and the order in which they are stored are random. In the present embodiment, the power of storing the fragmented content data randomly in 34 continuous storage areas of the external storage device 3 using a known storage management technique. You can store the fragmented content data randomly in any of the 34 areas, or store multiple contents in a completely random storage area. Good. Alternatively, when there are a plurality of pieces of data with exactly the same content, they may be stored in a common area, that is, at the same position.

The distribution request receiving unit 107 receives a distribution request from the sequential receiving device 2.

The received distribution request is, for example, a sheet representing a storage location of fragmented content data in the external storage device 3 such as {0004, ···, 0001, ···, 0003, ···, 0002}. It becomes Kens. Note that the present invention does not limit the expression method of the sequence to the method in the exemplary embodiment. For example, these sequences can be compressed or encoded, or individual position information can be encrypted as a sequence such as {E (0004), · '·, Ε (0001), ···}. Good. Alternatively, the position information y randomly determined by the content storage unit 105 may be determined uniquely with respect to the order X of the fragmented content data. If

y = ax + b mod P

A set of variables (a, b, P) may be input to the distribution request accepting unit 107 as a distribution request so as to be determined by an expression such as Alternatively, in order to increase the security in the transmission / reception of the distribution request, the distribution request can be encrypted with a public key encryption method using a public key encryption method that can be encrypted using a common key encryption method. Let's try encryption.

[0053] The content distribution unit 109 reads the fragmented content data stored in the external storage device 3 in accordance with the sequence specified in the distribution request received by the distribution request reception unit 107, and the sequential reception device Deliver to 2 sequentially. In the present embodiment, the distribution method is not particularly limited. The fragmented content data may be distributed one by one in the order in which they are read or distributed as one data in a batch. May be. In addition, in order to increase security in content distribution, distribution data may be scrambled and distributed using a common key encryption method! It is preferable that the content data to be distributed is distributed without an identifier indicating the order of the content data. Thus, the sequential receiving device 2 side attempts to order the content data received illegally. Can be prevented.

Note that, for the present embodiment, the content distribution unit 109 transmits the content data fragmented and stored according to the sequence specified in the distribution request transmitted from the sequential receiving device 2. Power to be distributed Instead of this method, for example, when storing the fragment or part of the divided content in a random order in the content storage unit 105, the stored order itself is stored separately. The content distribution unit 109 may distribute the content only when the sequence specified by the distribution request received by the distribution request reception unit 107 matches the order stored on the content distribution server 1 side. . Alternatively, a predetermined length may be set in advance, and if the order does not match, the content distribution unit 109 may distribute the predetermined length according to the sequence specified in the distribution request. By using these processes alone or in combination, the content cannot be normally viewed or played back unless a distribution request is made in the normal L or sequence, or only a random short or sequence can be viewed and played back. By doing so In addition, it is difficult to guess the sequence correctly by repeating trial and error.

[0055] (3) Configuration and operation of sequential receiver 2

Next, the configuration and operation of the sequential receiving device 2 will be described.

FIG. 4 shows an example of a functional configuration of the sequential reception apparatus 2 according to the first embodiment. The sequential reception device 2 includes a reception control unit 20, a sequence input unit 201, a content request unit 203, a content reception unit 205, and a content reproduction unit 207.

[0057] Reception control unit 20 controls sequence input unit 201, content requesting unit 203, content requesting unit 205, and content reproduction unit 207, and sequential receiving apparatus 2 operates according to the control of this reception control unit 20. .

[0058] The sequence input unit 201 receives as input the sequence for the content to be distributed. The correct sequence {0004, ···, 0001, 00 03, ···, 0002} as an example in the present embodiment The sequence input unit 201 can accept an input even if an incorrect sequence is input. preferable. The first embodiment does not particularly limit the sequence input method and means. The sequence input unit 201 may accept a direct input or may accept a sequence stored in an external recording medium exemplified by a USB memory or an IC card as an input or as an arbitrary file. A sequence stored in advance may be accepted as an input.

The content request unit 203 generates a distribution request including the sequence input to the sequence input unit 201 and transmits it to the sequential distribution server 1. It should be noted that the sequence expression method and distribution method used as the distribution request are not limited to the forms exemplified in the above embodiment.

[0060] The content receiving unit 205 sequentially receives fragmented content data distributed from the sequential distribution server 1, and stores the data in a temporary storage device or the like.

[0061] The content playback unit 207 sequentially or combines the fragmented content data stored and held in a temporary storage device or the like, and reproduces and displays the data on the display device collectively. The fragmented content data after the playback display is preferably deleted from the temporary storage device. Note that according to the present embodiment, if the sequence is correctly input as a distribution request, the content to be distributed is distributed in the correct order, so that the user can normally view and play back the content. can do. On the other hand, if an incorrect sequence is input, the fragmented content is played back in a random order. Therefore, the played content is maintained for each user, and the viewability for the user is maintained. The content is meaningless as content, so users cannot view and play content normally. In the sequential distribution server 1, when the content dividing unit 103 divides content, each piece of fragmented content data is divided so as to maintain its viewability and stored in the external storage device 3.

FIG. 5A shows an example of a fragmented content viewing / reproduction image when a sequence is correctly input to the sequential distribution server 1 as a distribution request in the first embodiment, and FIG. In the first embodiment, an example of a viewing / reproduction image of fragmented content when an incorrect sequence is input to the sequential distribution server 1 as a distribution request is shown. As shown in Fig. 5B, even if an incorrect sequence is input, the playback order is random, while each fragment can be viewed as a fragment.

Note that in the first embodiment, the sequential receiving device 2 accepts an input of a sequence of content to be distributed, and transmits the distribution request to the sequence distribution server 1. Power to receive and play distributed content Instead, a distribution request input terminal that accepts sequence input and transmits a distribution request, and a sequential receiver 2 that receives and plays distributed content 2 May be a different device.

FIG. 6 shows an example of the configuration of a sequential content distribution system including such a distribution request input terminal. The distribution request input terminal 5 may receive the sequence of the content requested for distribution and the input of information specifying the sequential receiving device 2 that receives and reproduces the content, and may transmit the distribution request to the sequential distribution server 1. The distribution request terminal may be an IC card using an IC card reader or the like that accepts input using a mobile phone or a personal digital assistant (PDA), or a network connection. Such a sequence may be received, and the sequential receiving device 2 may receive the content and view and play it back. Alternatively, when a content purchase request is transmitted from the distribution request input terminal 5 or the sequential receiving device 2 to the license 'server 6 and the content purchase is permitted, the distribution request input terminal 5 or the sequential request is transmitted from the license server 6. A sequence of contents permitted to be purchased may be transmitted to the receiving device 2, and a distribution request including the sequence may be generated!

[0066] (4) Data flow in the sequential distribution system according to the first embodiment

FIG. 9 shows a non-limiting example of the data flow between the sequential receiving device 2, the sequential distribution server 1 and the license 'server 6 in the sequential' content distribution process in the first embodiment. After that, the content is purchased properly and the sequential receiving device 2 receives the sequential distribution of the content itself.

First, the sequential receiving device 2 transmits a content preview request, that is, a sample content distribution request 91 to the sequential distribution server 1. The sequential distribution server 1 dynamically generates a block of content data from a part of the fragmented content data stored at random in the external storage device 3, and generates the blocked content data 92 as sample content. As shown in FIG. The blocked content data may be sent out in the random order stored in the external storage device 3, or may be sent out with all or a part rearranged in the correct order. The sample content must be meaningful enough to make the content purchase decision to the user who wants to purchase the content, while providing sufficient information to the unauthorized user. must not. Depending on the nature of the content to be delivered sequentially, the sample content may be ordered and blocked differently and its length determined.

[0068] The sample content received by the sequential receiving device 2 is viewed by the user, and when content purchase is determined, the sequential receiving device 2 transmits a content purchase request 93 to the sequential distribution server 1. This content purchase request 93 is transferred to the license server 6 as a purchase inquiry 94. License 'server 6, when the purchase is permitted, the data indicating permission to purchase the content is transmitted to the sequential receiving device 2 through the sequential distribution server 1 with the key force for configuring the correctness and order of the content. (95, 96). Alternatively, the content purchase request and purchase permission data 'key may be directly transmitted and received between the sequential receiving device 2 and the license' server 6 without going through the sequential distribution server 1.

[0069] Keys for constructing the correct order of the received content are analyzed in the sequential receiving device 2 and described in the content sequence or position information power distribution request obtained by this, 97, the sequential distribution server Sent to 1. The sequential distribution server 1 reads the fragmented content data stored at random according to the order or position information instructed by the distribution request, and sequentially transmits them to the sequential receiving device 2. The content data to be transmitted is content data 98 arranged in the correct order. As described above, the device that transmits the preview request 91 and the content purchase request 93 and the device that receives and reproduces the content data may be different devices. Alternatively, the sequential distribution server 1 that has been notified of permission to purchase content from the license 'server 6 does not wait for the distribution request from the sequential receiving device 2 and the fragmented content data in the correct order. You can send them to the sequential receiver 2 in line.

FIG. 10 shows a sample content viewing and non-limiting example of the data flow between the sequential receiving device 2, the sequential distribution server 1 and the license server 6 in the sequential 'content distribution processing in the first embodiment. In this case, the purchase of the content is rejected and the content body is distributed to the sequential receiving device 2 in the random order as stored in the external storage device 3.

First, the sequential receiving apparatus 2 transmits a content preview request, that is, a sample content distribution request 11, to the sequential distribution server 1. The sequential distribution server 1 dynamically generates a block of content data from a part of the fragmented content data stored at random in the external storage device 3, and uses the blocked content data 12 as sample content. As shown in FIG. [0072] The sample content received by the sequential receiving device 2 is viewed by the user, and when the content purchase is determined, the sequential receiving device 2 transmits a content purchase request 13 to the sequential distribution server 1. This content purchase request 13 is transferred to the license server 6 as a purchase inquiry 14. However, if the license is rejected by the license server 6, data 15 indicating content purchase rejection is transmitted to the sequential receiving device 2 via the sequential distribution server 1. Alternatively, the content purchase request and purchase rejection data may be directly transmitted and received between the sequential receiving device 2 and the license server 6 without going through the sequential distribution server 1. In this case, the randomized fragmented content data 18 is sequentially transmitted from the sequential distribution server 1 to the sequential receiving device 2 in the same order. Alternatively, the sequential receiving device 2 may be configured such that no fragmented content data is transmitted!

[0073] Since the sequential receiving device 2 does not know the correctness of the content to be purchased! /, The sequence or the position information, the information cannot be described in the distribution request. For this reason, the sequential distribution server 1 reads the fragmented content data stored at random, and sequentially transmits them to the sequential receiving device 2 in the random order. Accordingly, the received content cannot be normally viewed.

[0074] <Second Embodiment>

(1) Sequential 'content distribution system configuration according to the second embodiment

Hereinafter, only the difference between the sequential content distribution system according to the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described. The configuration of the sequential content delivery system according to the second embodiment is the same as the configuration of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, and the functional configuration of the sequential delivery server 1 according to the second embodiment is as follows. 2 is the same as the functional configuration of the sequential distribution server 1 in the first embodiment shown in FIG.

[0075] (2) Configuration and operation of sequential distribution server 1

In FIG. 2, the sequential distribution server 1 includes a distribution control unit 10, a content input unit 101, a content dividing unit 103, a content storage unit 105, a distribution request receiving unit 107, and a content distribution unit 109. [0076] The distribution control unit 10 controls the content input unit 101, the content dividing unit 103, the content storage unit 105, the distribution request receiving unit 107, and the content distribution unit 109, and the sequential distribution server 1 controls the distribution control. Operates according to the control of part 10.

[0077] The content input unit 101 accepts input of content to be stored and distributed.

The content dividing unit 103 divides the input content C into a plurality of fragments or parts.

The content storage unit 105 stores the divided pieces or portions of content in the external storage device 3 in an unordered manner, that is, in a random order. Furthermore, the content storage unit 105 according to the second embodiment associates the position of storing the next fragment or part of a fragment or part of a content with the fragmented content data as link information. And stored in the external storage device 3.

FIG. 7 shows an example of a content storage image according to the second embodiment. The fragmented content data and the link to the next fragmented content data are, for example, location 0001 [this data C011 and link 0028 (310), location 0002 [this data C034 and link 0000 (330), Data C029 and link 0021 (350) at position 0003 and data C0001 and link 0008 (370) at position 0004 are stored together so that the order before and after the contents and the order in which they are stored are random. The original contents are stored so that they can be restored by reading the linked information in order. Note that “0000” in the link information indicates that there is no fragmented content data to be distributed next. As a result, it is possible to express the end of content distribution or to represent a partial break of the content, so that, for example, the first break can be used dynamically as sample content. Alternatively, for example, the reverse link 0001 may be attached to the position 0028 and stored so that the original content can be restored by moving the last fragmented content data in reverse order. In the second embodiment, the absolute position in the external storage device 3 may be used as link information, and in some cases, the storage position of the first fragmented content data of the content is used as a reference. Relative positions may be used.

Distribution request accepting unit 107 receives a distribution request from sequential receiving apparatus 2.

The received distribution request is, for example, {0004, ···, 0001, ···, 0003, ···, 0002} Such a position represents the storage position of the fragmented content data in the external storage device 3. It should be noted that the present invention does not limit the position expression method to the method in the exemplary embodiment. For example, these sequences may be compressed codes, or individual positions may be encrypted to form sequences such as {E (0004),..., E (0001),. Alternatively, in order to increase the security in the transmission / reception of the distribution request, the public key unique to the sequential distribution apparatus 1 using the public key encryption method may be used in which the distribution request may be encrypted using the common key encryption method. The encryption can be performed as described in the first embodiment.

[0081] The content distribution unit 109 reads the fragmented content data stored in the external storage device 3 in accordance with the position information indicated by the position specified in the distribution request received by the distribution request reception unit 107. At the same time, the link data associated with the content data is read, and the fragmented content data and encrypted link information are sequentially delivered to the sequential receiving device 7 one by one. When the link information is encrypted, for example, key information unique to the sequential receiving device 7 or key information unique to the user receiving the distribution can be used.

In the second embodiment, the content data fragmented and stored according to the position information indicated by the position specified in the distribution request transmitted from the sequential receiving device 7 is used. Instead of this method, for example, a fixed length is determined in advance, and the positions sequentially specified in the distribution request are linked with the link information stored in the external storage device 3. If there is no fixed number of matches, the distribution of content data may be stopped and no further distribution requests may be accepted. This process can make it difficult to guess the correct sequence by repeated trial and error by making random short sequences and making it impossible to view and listen to power.

Furthermore, the distribution request may be generated including a set of fragmented content data positions and the next content data link. In this case, the data at the position specified by the position is the first data of the fragmented content data, and the link at the position specified by the position matches the link information specified in the distribution request. In this case, it is preferable that the subsequent processing is continued. This ensures that the correct position and As a result, it is ensured that the content is distributed to only authorized users who know both the correct link information and the content is normally viewed and reproduced.

(3) Configuration and operation of sequential receiver 7

Next, the configuration and operation of the sequential receiving device 7 in the second embodiment will be described.

FIG. 8 shows an example of a functional configuration of the sequential reception device 7 according to the second embodiment. The sequential reception device 7 includes a reception control unit 70, a sequence input unit 701, a content request unit 703, a content reception unit 705, and a content reproduction unit 707.

[0086] Reception control unit 70 controls position input unit 701, content requesting unit 703, content requesting unit 705, and content reproduction unit 707, and sequential receiving device 7 operates according to the control of this reception control unit 70. .

[0087] Position input unit 701 receives as input the position information of the first fragmented data for the content to be distributed. The position of the correct initial fragmentation data exemplified in the second embodiment is {0004}. Even if an incorrect position is input, the position input unit 701 preferably accepts the input. Further, as an input, a plurality of positions or a sequence of positions may be received. The second embodiment does not particularly limit the sequence input method and means. The position input unit 701 may accept direct input or may accept a sequence stored in an external recording medium such as a USB memory or an IC force input as an input or as an arbitrary file. Accept a pre-stored sequence as input.

[0088] The content request unit 703 generates a distribution request including the position input to the position input unit 701 and the acquired position described later, and transmits one sequential distribution server. It should be noted that the sequence expression method and the distribution method used as the distribution request are not limited to the forms exemplified in the above embodiments.

The content receiving unit 705 sequentially receives fragmented content data and link information distributed from the sequential distribution server 1, and stores and holds the data in a temporary storage device or the like. [0090] The encrypted link information can be decrypted by using, for example, key information unique to the sequential receiving device 7 or key information unique to the user receiving the distribution. In addition, when the relative position is used as the link information, the absolute position is calculated based on the input position. If there is next link information, that is, for example, if the link information is not 0000, the content request unit 703 transmits the distribution request again as the position where the link information is acquired. On the other hand, if the link information is 0000, the content reception is terminated unless there is an input next position. This facilitates partial playback of content such as sample content or one or more chapters of the entire content.

[0091] The content playback unit 707 sequentially or combines the fragmented content data stored and held in a temporary storage device or the like, and reproduces and displays the data on the display device in a lump. The fragmented content data after the playback display is preferably deleted from the temporary storage device.

In the second embodiment, when the correct position is input as the distribution request, the position of the next fragmented content data is attached to the fragmented content data to be distributed. Since the content is encrypted and distributed, the user can view and play back the content normally by acquiring the correct position sequentially. On the other hand, if an incorrect position is entered or if the position cannot be obtained, the fragmented content will be played in a random order, so the played content will be different for each piece. Although the viewability is maintained, it has no meaning as content, and thus the user cannot normally view and play back the content.

[0093] In particular, when the link information is represented by a relative position with respect to the storage position of the first fragmented content data, even if the key information is illegally decrypted to obtain the link information, Users who do not know the storage location cannot normally view and play back the content.

<Hardware Configuration of Sequential Content Distribution System According to this Embodiment> FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the sequential distribution Sano 1 and / or the sequential receiving device 2 according to this embodiment. Comb shown in Figure 11 In the sequential distribution server and the Z or sequential receiving device, which are data devices lio, the CPU 111 uses the RAMI 15 as a primary storage work memory in accordance with the programs stored in the ROM 114 and / or the hard disk drive 116, and the system. Control the whole. Further, the CPU 111 performs sequential content distribution and Z or reception processing according to this embodiment based on a program stored in the hard disk drive 116 in accordance with a user instruction input via the mouse 112a or the keyboard 112. Execute. The display interface 113 is connected to a display such as a CRT or LCD, and displays an input standby screen for sequential distribution and / or sequential reception processing executed by the CPU 111, processing progress and processing results, reproduced content images, and the like. The The removable media drive 117 is mainly used when writing a file from the removable medium to the hard disk drive 116 or writing a file read from the hard disk drive 116 to the removable medium. Removable media include floppy disk (FD), CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-R / W, DV D—ROM ゝ DVD-R, DVD-R / W, DVD—RAM, MO, or memory card CF cards, smart media, SD cards, memory sticks, etc. are available.

A printer such as a laser beam printer or an inkjet printer is connected to the printer interface 118. The network interface 119 is an interface for connecting the computer device to the network.

[0096] Note that the input unit in the sequential distribution server and / or receiving apparatus according to each of the above embodiments is not limited to the mouse 112a or the keyboard 112, for example, a track ball, a track pad, A tablet or the like can be used as appropriate. When the portable information terminal is used as the sequential distribution request device according to each of the above embodiments, the input unit may be configured with a button, a mode dial, or the like.

Further, the hardware configuration of the sequential distribution server and Z or the receiving device according to each of the above-described embodiments shown in FIG. 11 is merely an example, and any other hardware configuration can be used! Um ...!

[0098] In particular, all or part of the content reception and playback processing according to each of the above embodiments is realized by the above-described computer terminal device 100 or a portable information terminal device such as a PDA. The computer terminal device and server device can be connected to each other via wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or wired communication lines such as the Internet (TCPZIP), public telephone network (PSTN), integrated service digital network (ISDN). Sequential 'content delivery processing may be accomplished by interconnected network systems that also have the power of the Internet or any well-known local' area 'network (LAN) or wide' area 'network (WAN). For example, a portable information terminal device such as a PDA transmits a content distribution request to the content distribution server 1, and the content distribution server 1 sequentially transmits to the content reproduction device with a predetermined or requested identifier. Content may be distributed.

[0099] As described above, according to each of the above-described embodiments, for the user who does not know the correctness, sequence, or position of the content stored and stored randomly in the sequential distribution server 1, the Since the converted content data is distributed randomly, the content cannot be normally viewed and played back on the sequential receiving device! / ヽ. On the other hand, since fragmented content data is distributed sequentially only to legitimate users who know the correct sequence or position, the content can be normally viewed and reproduced in the sequential receiving device.

[0100] Accordingly, normal reception and viewing / playback of content by an unauthorized user are extremely difficult.

[0101] Furthermore, content encryption processing and the like need only be performed for each piece of fragmented content data, so that only legitimate users can view and play content normally. Distribution, reception, and playback are easily realized without imposing high loads on either the distribution server or the receiving device.

[0102] Furthermore, sample content can be created using a partial sequence for the correct sequence for viewing the content itself, so sample content can be viewed in advance without having to create and store sample content in advance. This will improve the convenience and reduce the burden of sample content production. Industrial applicability

[0103] The scope of the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described. Further, all the embodiments that bring about an effect equivalent to the object of the present invention are included. Further, the scope of the present invention is defined by any desired combination of particular features among all the disclosed features that are not limited to the combination of features of the invention defined by claim 1. sell.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] The content to be distributed sequentially is divided into a plurality of fragments, and each of the fragments obtains fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained;

A content storage unit for storing the fragmented content data in a storage device in a random order;

A distribution request analysis unit that analyzes a distribution request from a receiving apparatus and reads the fragmented content data stored in the storage device in accordance with an order specified in the distribution request; and the read fragmented content data And a content distribution unit that sequentially distributes according to the order specified in the distribution request.

Sequential 'content distribution device characterized by that.

[2] The content distribution unit encrypts each of the read fragmented content data and sequentially distributes the fragmented content data

The sequential content distribution apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

[3] The content storage unit stores and holds the order in which the fragmented content data is stored in a storage device,

The distribution request analysis unit instructs the content distribution unit to distribute the fragmented content data only when the order specified in the distribution request matches the stored order.

The sequential content distribution apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by:

[4] The content storage unit stores and holds the order in which the fragmented content data is stored in a storage device,

When the order specified in the delivery request and the stored and stored order do not match, the delivery request analysis unit sends only a predetermined length shorter than the entire content to the content delivery unit. Instruct delivery of the fragmented content data in the order specified in the delivery request.

[5] Divide the content to be delivered sequentially into multiple pieces, Each of which has a sequence input unit for inputting the order of fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained, and

A content request unit that generates a content distribution request including the input order and transmits the content distribution request to the content distribution device;

The distributed fragmented content data is combined or played back in the order received.

Sequential 'content delivery request device characterized by that.

[6] The sequential 'content delivery requesting device further includes a content receiving unit that receives the distributed fragmented content data;

A content playback unit that combines the received fragmented content data or plays back the fragmented content data in the order received.

6. The sequential content delivery requesting device according to claim 5, wherein:

[7] The content to be distributed sequentially is divided into a plurality of fragments, and each of the fragments obtains fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained,

A content storage unit for storing the fragmented content data in a random order in association with position information indicating a storage position in the storage device of the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data;

Analyzing the distribution request from the receiving device, and according to the order specified in the distribution request, the fragmented content data stored in the storage device and the positional information of the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data A distribution request analysis unit for reading out, and the fragmented content data that has been read out and the position information of the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data according to the order specified in the distribution request. Content distribution unit

Sequential 'content distribution device characterized by that.

[8] The content to be distributed sequentially is divided into a plurality of fragments, and each piece of fragment information data in which the viewability is maintained is stored as position information in the storage device on the content distribution device side. A position information input unit to be input; A content request unit that includes the input location information and the location information received from the content delivery device, generates a content delivery request, and transmits the content delivery request to the content delivery device;

Sequential 'content delivery request device characterized by that.

[9] Dividing content to be delivered sequentially into a plurality of fragments, each of the fragments obtaining fragmented content data in which viewability is maintained, and the fragmented content data is randomly A step of storing in the storage device in order; a step of analyzing the distribution request from the receiving device; and reading out the fragmented content data stored in the storage device in accordance with the order specified in the distribution request; Delivering the fragmented content data sequentially according to the order specified in the delivery request.

Sequential 'content delivery method characterized by that.

[10] The step of dividing the content to be delivered sequentially into multiple pieces, each of which enters the order of the fragmented content data in which the viewability is maintained,

Generating a content distribution request including the input order and transmitting the content distribution request to the content distribution device;

A sequential 'content delivery request method characterized by that.

[11] Dividing content to be delivered sequentially into a plurality of fragments, each of the fragments obtaining fragmented content data in which viewability is maintained; and Storing in a random order in association with position information indicating a storage position in the storage device of the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data; Analyzing the distribution request from the receiving device, and according to the order specified in the distribution request, the fragmented content data stored in the storage device and the positional information of the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data A step of reading

And sequentially distributing the read fragmented content data and the position information of the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data in the order specified in the distribution request.

Sequential 'content delivery method characterized by that.

[12] The content to be distributed sequentially is divided into a plurality of pieces, and each piece of fragment information of the fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained is stored in the storage device on the content distribution device side. Step to enter,

Including a step of generating a content distribution request including the input position information and the position information received from the content distribution device, and transmitting the content distribution request to the content distribution device.

A sequential 'content delivery request method characterized by that.

[13] Sequential 'A sequential content distribution program for causing a computer to execute content distribution processing, the program dividing the content to be sequentially distributed to the computer into a plurality of fragments. Each of the fragments has a content dividing process for obtaining fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained,

Content storage processing for storing the fragmented content data in a storage device in a random order;

A distribution request analysis process for analyzing the distribution request from the receiving device and reading the fragmented content data stored in the storage device in the order specified in the distribution request;

Content distribution processing that sequentially distributes the read fragmented content data in the order specified in the distribution request. Sequential 'content delivery program characterized by processing.

[14] Sequential 'Sequential for causing a computer to execute a content distribution request process. A content distribution request program,

A sequence input process that divides content to be delivered sequentially into a plurality of fragments, and each of the fragments inputs an order of fragmented content data in which viewability is maintained,

Including the input order, generating a content distribution request, and executing a process including a content request process to be transmitted to the content distribution device,

Sequential 'content delivery request program characterized by that.

[15] Sequential 'A sequential content distribution program for causing a computer to execute content distribution processing, the program dividing the content to be sequentially distributed to the computer into a plurality of fragments. Each of the fragments has a content dividing process for obtaining fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained,

A content storage process for storing the fragmented content data in a random order in association with position information indicating a storage position in the storage device of the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data;

Analyzing the distribution request from the receiving device, and according to the order specified in the distribution request, the fragmented content data stored in the storage device and the positional information of the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data The distribution request analysis processing for reading out, the fragmented content data that has been read out, and the position information of the next fragmented content data of the fragmented content data are sequentially ordered according to the order specified in the distribution request. Content distribution processing to be distributed to

Sequential 'content distribution program characterized by processing Lamb.

Sequential 'Sequential content distribution program for causing a computer to execute content distribution processing, the program dividing the content to be sequentially distributed to the computer into a plurality of fragments, Each of the information processing apparatus inputs position information in the storage device on the content distribution device side of the fragmented content data whose viewability is maintained,

Including the input position information and the position information received from the content distribution device, and generating a content distribution request and transmitting the content request processing to the content distribution device.

Sequential 'content delivery request program characterized by that.