U.S. patent application number 15/136682 was filed with the patent office on 2016-08-18 for method and system for controlling video media.
The applicant listed for this patent is Media Rights Technologies, Inc.. Invention is credited to Edward Vincent Fitzgerald, Hank Risan.
Application Number | 20160239643 15/136682 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34425939 |
Filed Date | 2016-08-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160239643 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Risan; Hank ; et
al. |
August 18, 2016 |
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING VIDEO MEDIA
Abstract
A method and system for controlling video input media is
described. The method includes receiving video media via a video
media input device. The video media input device is communicatively
coupled with and operable in conjunction with the electronic
device. The method further includes monitoring a data path within
the electronic device associated with the video media. The
monitoring is performed by a compliance mechanism communicatively
coupled with and operable in conjunction with the electronic
device. The method further includes preventing the video media from
reaching a usage mechanism via the data path, the usage mechanism
communicatively coupled with the electronic device. The usage
mechanism is able to create an environment in which the video media
can be used in an unauthorized manner. The preventing performed by
the compliance mechanism is done when usage of the video media with
the usage mechanism violates a usage restriction applicable to the
video media.
Inventors: |
Risan; Hank; (Santa Cruz,
CA) ; Fitzgerald; Edward Vincent; (Capitola,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Media Rights Technologies, Inc. |
Santa Cruz |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
34425939 |
Appl. No.: |
15/136682 |
Filed: |
April 22, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10941787 |
Sep 14, 2004 |
9342662 |
|
|
15136682 |
|
|
|
|
60503934 |
Sep 16, 2003 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 21/25875 20130101;
H04N 5/775 20130101; H04N 21/2221 20130101; H04N 21/25858 20130101;
H04N 21/4135 20130101; H04N 21/8586 20130101; H04N 21/26613
20130101; H04N 21/4351 20130101; H04N 21/44236 20130101; H04N
21/43622 20130101; H04N 21/835 20130101; H04N 5/765 20130101; G06F
21/10 20130101; H04N 21/2347 20130101; H04N 21/2585 20130101; H04N
21/25833 20130101; H04N 21/2541 20130101; H04N 21/8358 20130101;
H04N 21/443 20130101; H04N 7/1675 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06F 21/10 20060101
G06F021/10; H04N 7/167 20060101 H04N007/167; H04N 21/222 20060101
H04N021/222; H04N 21/2347 20060101 H04N021/2347; H04N 21/254
20060101 H04N021/254; H04N 21/258 20060101 H04N021/258; H04N 21/266
20060101 H04N021/266; H04N 21/41 20060101 H04N021/41; H04N 21/435
20060101 H04N021/435; H04N 21/436 20060101 H04N021/436; H04N 21/442
20060101 H04N021/442; H04N 21/443 20060101 H04N021/443; H04N 21/835
20060101 H04N021/835; H04N 21/8358 20060101 H04N021/8358; H04N
21/858 20060101 H04N021/858; H04N 5/775 20060101 H04N005/775 |
Claims
1. A method for controlling unauthorized usage of video media
accessible via an electronic device, said method comprising:
receiving an instance of video media via a video media input
device, said video media input device communicatively coupled with
and operable in conjunction with said electronic device, said
electronic device an environment with which said video media is
usable; monitoring a data path within said electronic device
associated with said video media, said monitoring performed by a
compliance mechanism communicatively coupled with and operable in
conjunction with said electronic device; and preventing said video
media from reaching a usage mechanism via said data path, said
usage mechanism communicatively coupled to and operable in
conjunction with said electronic device, said usage mechanism
enabled to create an environment in which said video media can be
used in an unauthorized manner, said preventing performed by said
compliance mechanism when usage of said video media with said usage
mechanism violates a usage restriction applicable to said video
media.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit and to and is a
continuation of the co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/941,787 filed on Sep. 14, 2004, entitled "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR
CONTROLLING VIDEO MEDIA" by Hank Risan et al., assigned to the
assignee of the present application, having Attorney Docket No.
MOMI-020, and is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
[0002] The application Ser. No. 10/941,787 claims priority to the
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/503,934 entitled "METHOD
AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING VIDEO MEDIA" by Hank Risan et al., filed
Sep. 16, 2003, Attorney Docket Number: MOMI-020.PRO; which are
hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates to controlling video media.
More particularly, the present invention relates to providing a
system and method for providing protection against unauthorized and
unlawful use of digital video media.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] With advancements in hardware and software technology,
computers are integral tools utilized in various applications, such
as finance, CAD (computer aided design), manufacturing, health
care, telecommunication, education, etc. Further, an enhancement in
computer functionality can be realized by communicatively coupling
computers together to form a network. Within a network environment,
computer systems enable users to exchange files, share information
stored in common databases, combine or pool resources, communicate
via electronic mail (e-mail), and access information on the
Internet. Additionally, computers connected to a network
environment, e.g., the Internet, provide their users access to data
and information from all over the world.
[0005] Some of the various types of data that a user can access and
share include, but are not limited to, text data such as that found
in a word document, graphical data such as that found in pictures,
e.g., JPEGs, GIFs, TIFFs, audio data such as that found in music
files, e.g., MP3 files, and video data such as that found in moving
pictures files, e.g., MPEG, MOV, and AVI files, to name a few. In
fact, nearly any type of data can be stored and shared with other
computer systems. In many instances, the material contained within
the various data types is copyrighted material.
[0006] Additionally, with the development of digital video
broadcasting, e.g., DTV (digital television), HDTV (high definition
television), and the like, computer systems are further utilized to
capture, save and redistribute broadcasted video media. Broadcasted
digital video media can include, but is not limited to, television
shows, news broadcasts, movies presented for broadcast, etc.
Disadvantageously, currently broadcasted video media content is not
afforded protection from capture, (e.g., an indicator for
indicating protected media, an encryption applied to the video
media content, a proprietary player needed to experience the video
media content, and the like) or unauthorized reproduction.
[0007] A common means to capture video media content is to have
coupled to a computer system a hardware interface for receiving the
video media, enabling capture of the digital video media. The
hardware interface can perform some processing on the incoming
digital video media including, but not limited to, filtering,
compressing, or transcoding to a digital format prior to sending
the content to a computer's operating system for playback or
further processing. Once the broadcasted digital video media is
captured, many readily available mechanisms, programs, and devices
can be implemented to manipulate the digital video media allowing
unauthorized copying, storing, reproduction, sharing, and/or other
means of distribution. For example, the captured video media
content can be written to a hard disc drive that is coupled to a
computer system. In another example, the captured video media
content can be written directly to a DVD recorder. Once the video
media content in stored, it can be readily redistributed or
shared.
[0008] There are many different types of network environments that
can be implemented to facilitate sharing of data between computer
systems. Some of the various network environment types include
Ethernet, client-server, and wired and/or wireless network
environments. A common utilization of a network environment type is
for file sharing, such as in a P2P network or point-to-point
network. Most P2P networks rely on business models based upon the
transfer and redistribution of copyrighted material, e.g., media
files, between computers coupled to a network, e.g., the Internet.
A P2P network allows a user to acquire the copyrighted material
from a computer, a web site source, a music broadcaster, a video
broadcaster, and store and share the material with other users
throughout the network, in some instances acting as a web site
source or a music broadcaster.
[0009] It is also common for users sharing files in an uncontrolled
manner to use freely distributed or commercially available media
player applications to experience, e.g., listen, view, and/or
watch, the shared files. In many instances, these media player
applications also provide for downloading the media file from a P2P
network, from licensed web broadcasters, from licensed digital
video media broadcasters (e.g., HDTV), saving it locally, and then
upload the media file onto an unlawful P2P or similar network
and/or consumer recording devices. Unlawfully saving a media file
can be as simple as selecting the save or record function on a
media player application.
[0010] Additionally, many of the computers, web sites, and web
broadcasters that share copyrighted material commonly do not
control or monitor the files being exchanged between computers.
Additionally, when web sites attempt to control or restrict the
distribution of copyrighted material, e.g., audio, video, or other
files, users seeking to circumvent controls or restrictions can, in
many cases, simply utilize the recording functionality of a media
player application and save the copyrighted material, rename the
particular media file, and upload the renamed file, rendering
attempts to control or restrict its distribution moot.
[0011] A disadvantage to the uncontrolled sharing of files, more
particularly the capturing, saving, and uploading of copyrighted
material, e.g., broadcasted digital video media files, is that
there is currently no effective means to provide compensation to
the owner (e.g., television network, public broadcasting
television, movie company, etc.) of the copyrighted material.
Studies have revenue losses in the billions due to unauthorized
copying and inaccurate reporting of royalties.
[0012] Current methods of sharing media files do not provide
adequate file distribution controls or proper accountability with
regard to licensing agreements and/or copyright restrictions
associated with shared copyrighted material.
[0013] Additionally, the video media file copyright holders are
being sold on a premise that a large video media file (e.g., larger
than a gigabyte) does not need protection because of its size. When
computers where using 56 k modems, the size of a video media file
would require substantial time to download or copy. Therefore,
users may have been less likely to use a computer to
record/capture/reproduce a large video media file because of the
inherent size and time requirements. However, with the recent
development of high speed communications, (e.g., DSL (digital
subscriber line), cable DSL, T1 connections, fiber optics, etc.),
these time and size constraints are no longer a concern. when
compared to slow speed communications, (e.g., a 33.6 or 56K
modem).
[0014] Devices and applications are readily available via the
Internet for the express purpose of producing an exact video copy
of media files. For example, many HDTV expansion cards that include
software are readily available and designed to produce an exact
digital video copy. Further, many applications are available that
are designed to capture the digital video media during playback.
This is commonly accomplished by the application "splicing" into
input and/or output data paths within the computer system and
capturing the video media content. These applications can capture
the video media from a variety of sources including, but not
limited to, a high-speed data connection, a DVD (digital versatile
disc), or video CD (compact disc). Additionally, there are
"ripping" applications, readily available via the Internet, that go
to the video media file where it can "rip" the video file. Further,
there are compression applications, readily available, that
compress the video media file to a more manageable size, thus
reducing the size of the video media. Many compression applications
can provide 4 x compression, meaning the video media file may be
one-fourth of the original size after compression.
[0015] Further, many of the media player/recorder applications are
designed to capture and record incoming media files in a manner
that circumvents controls implemented by a media player application
inherent to an operating system, e.g., QuickTime for Apple, Windows
MediaPlayer for Windows.TM., etc., or downloadable from the
Internet, e.g., RealPlayer, LiquidAudio, or those provided by
webcasters, e.g., PressPlay, for controlling unauthorized recording
of media files. Also, many digital recording devices, e.g.,
mini-disc recorders, MP3 recorders, and the like, can be coupled to
a digital output of a computer system, e.g., a USB port, a S/PDIF
out, and the like, to capture the media file.
[0016] It is desired to prevent recording applications, such as
Total Recorder, Sound Forge, and numerous others, that are adapted
to establish a connection with a device driver operable within an
operating system to capture and redirect the media file to create
an unauthorized reproduction of a media file. It is also desired to
prevent recording applications from accessing a media device driver
and making unauthorized copies of copyrighted material through some
available network, e.g., wireline, wireless, P2P, etc., or through
a communicative coupling. It is further desirable to prevent access
to a media device driver by a recording application for the purpose
of making unauthorized copies of media files from or to alternative
sources, e.g., CD players, DVD players, removable hard drives,
personal electronic and/or recording devices, e.g., MP3 recorders,
and the like.
[0017] Current systems and methods of controlling broadcasted
digital video media are inadequate.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0018] Accordingly, a need exists for a method and system that
controls unauthorized use of video media. Embodiments of the
present invention satisfy the above mentioned needs.
[0019] A method for preventing unauthorized usage of video media
accessible via an electronic device according to an embodiment is
described. The method is comprised of receiving an instance of
video media via a video media input device. The video media input
device is communicatively coupled with and operable in conjunction
with the electronic device. The electronic device supports an
environment with which the video media is usable. The method is
further comprised of monitoring a data path within the electronic
device associated with the video media. The monitoring is performed
by a compliance mechanism communicatively coupled with and operable
in conjunction with the electronic device. The method is
additionally comprised of preventing the video media from reaching
a usage mechanism via the data path. The usage mechanism is
communicatively coupled to and operable in conjunction with the
electronic device. The usage mechanism is able to create an
environment in which the video media can be used in an unauthorized
manner. The preventing is performed by the compliance mechanism
when usage of the video media with the usage mechanism violates a
usage restriction applicable to the video media.
[0020] In another embodiment, a system for controlling unauthorized
usage of video media content in an electronic device is described.
The system includes a receiver for receiving an instance of video
media content. The receiver is communicatively coupled to and
operable in conjunction with the electronic device. The system
further includes a monitor for monitoring a data path associated
with the instance of video media content. The monitor is
communicatively coupled with the data path. The monitor is
communicatively coupled with and controlled by a compliance
mechanism. The compliance mechanism is communicatively coupled with
and operable in conjunction with the electronic device. The system
further includes a preventor for preventing the instance of video
media content from reaching a usage mechanism via the data path.
The usage mechanism is communicatively coupled with and operable in
conjunction with the electronic device and enabled to create an
environment in said electronic device in which the instance of
media content can be used in an unauthorized manner. The preventor
is communicatively coupled with and controlled by the compliance
mechanism. The preventor is activated when usage of the instance of
video media content in an unauthorized manner by the usage
mechanism violates a usage restriction applicable to the instance
of video media content.
[0021] These and other objects and advantages of the present
invention will no doubt become obvious to those of ordinary skill
in the art after having read the following detailed description of
the preferred embodiments which are illustrated in the various
drawing figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the
invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the
principles of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary computer system
that can be utilized in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0024] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary network
environment that can be utilized in accordance with an embodiment
of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a copyright compliance
mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0026] FIG. 4 is an exemplary system for implementing a copyright
compliance mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0027] FIG. 5A is a data flow block diagram showing an
implementation of a copyright compliance mechanism for preventing
unauthorized recording of media files, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 5B is a data flow block diagram showing an
implementation of a component of a copyright compliance mechanism
for preventing unauthorized recording of media files, in accordance
with another embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 5C is a data flow block diagram showing an
implementation of a copyright compliance mechanism for preventing
unauthorized output of media files, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 5D is a data flow block diagram showing an
implementation of a copyright compliance mechanism for preventing
unauthorized output of media files through media file capture at a
kernel level, in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0031] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an environment for preventing
unauthorized copying of a media file, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] FIGS. 7A, 7 B, and 7C are a flowchart of steps performed in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention for
providing a copyright compliance mechanism to a network of client
and server computer systems.
[0033] FIG. 8 is a diagram of an exemplary global media delivery
system in which a copyright compliance mechanism can be implemented
in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a copyright compliance
mechanism installable from a media storage device, in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a communicative environment
for controlling unauthorized reproduction of protected media files
disposed on a media storage device, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 11 is a data flow block diagram showing an
implementation of a copyright compliance mechanism for preventing
unauthorized reproduction of a protected media file located on a
media storage device, in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0037] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of components of a usage
compliance mechanism installable from a media storage device upon
which protected media files are disposed, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of components of a usage
compliance mechanism and content disposed on a media storage
device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0039] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a communicative environment
for controlling presentation of content on a media storage device,
in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 15 is a data flow block diagram showing an
implementation of a usage compliance mechanism for controlling
presentation of content disposed on a media storage device, in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 16 is a flowchart of a process for controlling
presentation of content disposed on a media storage device, in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a network environment for
sharing media content among nodes within a network in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of components within an exemplary
usage compliance mechanism configured for utilization in a
distributed network topology for controlling media sharing among
nodes in a network, in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0044] FIG. 19 is an illustrated data flow of an exemplary system
for controlling media sharing among multiple nodes communicatively
coupled in a network in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0045] FIG. 20 is a data flow block diagram showing an
implementation of a usage compliance mechanism for controlling
capturing of video media input, in accordance with one embodiment
of the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 21 is a data flow block diagram showing an
implementation of a usage compliance mechanism for controlling
capturing of rendered video media, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 22 is a flowchart of a process for controlling usage of
video media received in a computer system, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0048] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the
invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying
drawings. While the invention will be described in conjunction with
embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intended to
limit the invention to these embodiments. On the contrary, the
invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and
equivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of
the invention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, in
the following detailed description of the present invention,
numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a
thorough understanding of the present invention. However, to one of
ordinary skill in the art, the present invention may be practiced
without these specific details. In other instances, well known
methods, procedures, components, and circuits have not been
described in detail as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the
present invention.
[0049] Some portions of the detailed description which follows are
presented in terms of procedures, logic blocks, processing, and
other symbolic representations of operations on data bits within a
computing system or digital memory system. These descriptions and
representations are the means used by those skilled in the data
processing art to most effectively convey the substance of their
work to others skilled in the art. A procedure, logic block,
process, etc., is herein, and generally, conceived to be a
self-consistent sequence of steps or instructions leading to a
desired result. The steps are those involving physical
manipulations of physical quantities. Usually, though not
necessarily, these physical manipulations take the form of
electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored,
transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated in a
computing system or similar electronic computing device. For
reasons of convenience, and with reference to common usage, these
signals are referred to as bits, values, elements, symbols,
characters, terms, numbers, or the like, with reference to the
present invention.
[0050] It should be borne in mind, however, that all of these terms
are to be interpreted as referencing physical manipulations and
quantities and are merely convenient labels and are to be
interpreted further in view of terms commonly used in the art.
Unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the following
discussions, it is understood that discussions of the present
invention refer to actions and processes of a computing system, or
similar electronic computing device that manipulates and transforms
data. The data is represented as physical (electronic) quantities
within the computing system's registers and memories and is
transformed into other data similarly represented as physical
quantities within the computing system's memories or registers, or
other such information storage, transmission, or display
devices.
[0051] In the following description, for purposes of explanation,
numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a
thorough understanding of the present invention. To one skilled in
the art, the present invention may be practiced without these
specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and
devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring
the present invention.
[0052] Embodiments of the present invention are discussed primarily
in the context of a network of computer systems such as a network
of desktop, workstation, laptop, handheld, and/or other portable
electronic devices. For purposes of the present application, the
term "portable electronic device" is not intended to be limited
solely to conventional handheld or portable computers. Instead, the
term "portable electronic device" is also intended to include many
mobile electronic devices. Such mobile devices include, but are not
limited to, portable CD players, MP3 players, mobile phones,
portable recording devices, satellite radios, portable video
playback devices (digital projectors), personal video eyewear,
personal video recorders, and other personal digital devices.
Additionally, embodiments of the present invention are also well
suited for implementation with theater presentation systems for
public and/or private presentation in theaters, auditoriums,
convention centers, etc.
[0053] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary computer
system 100 that can be used in accordance with embodiments of the
present invention. It is noted that computer system 100 can be
nearly any type of computing system or electronic computing device
including, but not limited to, a server computer, a desktop
computer, a laptop computer, or other portable electronic device.
Within the context of embodiments of the present invention, certain
discussed processes, procedures, and operations can be realized as
a series of instructions (e.g., a software program) that reside
within computer system memory units of computer system 100 and are
executed by a processor(s) of computer system 100. When executed,
the instructions cause computer system 100 to perform specific
actions and exhibit specific behavior which is described in detail
herein.
[0054] Computer system 100 of FIG. 1 comprises an address/data bus
110 for communicating information, one or more central processors
101 coupled to bus 110 for processing information and instructions.
Central processor(s) 101 can be a microprocessor or any alternative
type of processor. Computer system 100 also includes a computer
usable volatile memory 102, e.g., random access memory (RAM),
static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM
(SDRAM), double data rate RAM (DDR RAM), etc., coupled to bus 110
for storing information and instructions for processor(s) 101.
Computer system 100 further includes a computer usable non-volatile
memory 103, e.g., read only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM),
electronically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable PROM
(EEPROM), flash memory (a type of EEPROM), etc., coupled to bus 110
for storing static information and instructions for processor(s)
101. In one embodiment, non-volatile memory 103 can be
removable.
[0055] System 100 also includes one or more signal generating and
receiving devices (e.g., signal input/output device(s) 104) coupled
to bus 110 for enabling computer 100 to interface with other
electronic devices. Communication interface 104 can include wired
and/or wireless communication functionality. For example, in one
embodiment, communication interface 104 is a serial communication
port, but can alternatively be one of a number of well known
communication standards and protocols, e.g., a parallel port, an
Ethernet adapter, a FireWire (IEEE 1394) interface, a Universal
Serial Bus (USB), a small computer system interface (SCSI), an
infrared (IR) communication port, a Bluetooth wireless
communication adapter, a broadband connection, a satellite link, an
Internet feed, a cable modem, and the like. In another embodiment,
a digital subscriber line (DSL) can be implemented as signal
input/output device 104. In such an instance, communication
interface 104 may include a DSL modem.
[0056] Computer 100 of FIG. 1 can also include one or more computer
usable data storage device(s) 108 coupled to bus 110 for storing
instructions and information, in one embodiment of the present
invention. In one embodiment, data storage device 108 can be a
magnetic storage device, e.g., a hard disk drive, a floppy disk
drive, a zip drive, or other magnetic storage device. In another
embodiment, data storage device 108 can be an optical storage
device, e.g., a CD (compact disc), a DVD (digital versatile disc),
or other alternative optical storage device. Alternatively, any
combination of magnetic, optical, and alternative storage devices
can be implemented, e.g., a RAID (random array of independent disks
or random array of inexpensive discs) configuration. It is noted
that data storage device 108 can be located internal and/or
external of system 100 and communicatively coupled with system 100
utilizing wired and/or wireless communication technology, thereby
providing expanded storage and functionality to system 100. It is
further noted that nearly any portable electronic device, e.g.,
device 100 a, can also be communicatively coupled with system 100
via utilization of wired and/or wireless communication technology,
thereby expanding the functionality of system 100.
[0057] Computer system 100 of FIG. 1 may also include an optional
video signal input/output device 109 for receiving and outputting
video media. Video signal input/output device 109 is coupled to bus
110. Examples of video digital input/output devices 109 include,
but is not limited to, a TV expansion card, an HDTV expansion card,
and the like. In one embodiment, video signal input/output device
109 can utilize display device 105 to visually present video
content to a user of computer system 100.
[0058] System 100 can also include an optional display device 105
coupled to bus 110 for displaying video, graphics, and/or
alphanumeric characters. It is noted that display device 105 can be
a CRT (cathode ray tube), a thin CRT (TCRT), a liquid crystal
display (LCD), a plasma display, a field emission display (FED),
video eyewear, a projection device (e.g., an LCD (liquid crystal
display) or DLP (digital light projector), a movie theater
projection system, and the like), or any other display device
suitable for displaying video, graphics, and alphanumeric
characters recognizable to a user.
[0059] Computer system 100 of FIG. 1 further includes an optional
alphanumeric input device 106 coupled to bus 110 for communicating
information and command selections to processor(s) 101, in one
embodiment. Alphanumeric input device 106 includes alphanumeric and
function keys. Computer 100 can also include an optional cursor
control device 107 coupled to bus 110 for communicating user input
information and command selections to processor(s) 101. Cursor
control device 107 can be implemented using a number of well known
devices such as a mouse, a trackball, a track pad, a joy stick, a
optical tracking device, a touch screen, etc. It is noted that a
cursor can be directed and/or activated via input from alphanumeric
input device 106 using special keys and key sequence commands. It
is further noted that directing and/or activating the cursor can be
accomplished by alternative means, e.g., voice activated commands,
provided computer system 100 is configured with such
functionality.
[0060] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary network 200 in
which embodiments of the present invention may be implemented. In
one embodiment, network 200 enables one or more authorized client
computer systems (e.g., 210, 220, and 230), each of which are
coupled to Internet 201, to receive media content from a media
content server 251 via the Internet 201 while preventing
unauthorized client computer systems from accessing media stored in
a database of content server 251.
[0061] Network 200 includes a web server 250 and content server 251
which are communicatively coupled to Internet 201. Further, web
server 250 and content server 251 can be communicatively coupled
without utilizing Internet 201, as shown. Web server 250, content
server 251, and client computers 210, 220, and 230 can communicate
with each other. It is noted that computers and servers of network
200 are well suited to be communicatively coupled in various
implementations. For example, web server 250, content server 251,
and client computer systems 210, 220, and 230 of network 200 can be
communicatively coupled via wired communication technology (e.g.,
twisted pair cabling, fiber optics, coaxial cable, etc.), or
wireless communication technology, or a combination of wired and
wireless communication technology.
[0062] Still referring to FIG. 2, it is noted that web server 250,
content server 251, and client computer systems 210, 220 and 230
can, in one embodiment, be each implemented in a manner similar to
computer system 100 of FIG. 1. However, the server and computer
systems in network 200 are not limited to such implementation.
Additionally, web server 250 and content server 251 can perform
various functionalities within network 200. It is also noted that,
in one embodiment, web server 250 and content server 251 can both
be disposed on a single or a plurality of physical computer
systems.
[0063] Further, it is noted that network 200 can operate with and
deliver any type of media content (e.g., audio, video, multimedia,
graphics, information, data, software programs, broadcast video,
etc.) in any format. In one embodiment, content server 251 can
provide audio and video files to client computers 210-230 via
Internet 201.
[0064] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary copyright
compliance mechanism (CCM) 300, for controlling distribution of,
access to, and/or copyright compliance of media files in accordance
with an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, CCM
300 contains one or more software components and instructions for
enabling compliance with DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act)
restrictions and/or RIAA (Recording Industry Association of
America) licensing agreements regarding media files. Additionally,
CCM 300's software components and instructions further enable
compliance with international recording restrictions such as those
defined by the IFPI (International Federation of Phonographic
Industry), the ISRC (International Standard Recording Industry),
other foreign or international recording associations, and/or
foreign or international licensing restrictions. In one embodiment,
CCM 300 may be integrated into existing and/or newly developed
media player and recorder applications. In another embodiment, CCM
300 may be implemented as a stand alone mechanism but in
conjunction with existing media player/recorder applications, such
that CCM 300 is communicatively coupled to existing media
player/recorder applications. Alternatively, CCM 300 can be
installed as a stand alone mechanism within a client computer
system 210. Additionally, CCM 300 can be installed as a stand alone
mechanism and/or as part of a bundled application from a media
storage device, e.g., a CD, a DVD, an SD (secure digital card),
and/or as part of an installation package. In another embodiment,
CCM 300 can be installed in conjunction with a presentation of
desired media content, e.g., listening to an audio file on a music
CD, reading a document, viewing a video, etc. It is noted that, in
one embodiment, CCM 300 may be installed on client system 210 in a
clandestine manner, relative to a user.
[0065] There are currently two types of copyright licenses
recognized by the digital millennium copyright act (DMCA) for the
protection of broadcasted copyrighted material. One of the
broadcast copyright licenses is a compulsory license, also referred
to as a statutory license. A statutory license is defined as a
non-interactive license, meaning the user cannot select the song.
Further, a caveat of this type of broadcast license is that a user
must not be able to select a particular music file for the purpose
of recording it to the user's computer system or other storage
device. Another caveat of a statutory license is that a media file
is not available more than once for a given period of time. In one
example, the period of time can be three hours.
[0066] The other type of broadcast license recognized by the DMCA
is an interactive licensing agreement. An interactive licensing
agreement is commonly with the copyright holder (e.g., a record
company, the artist, etc.,) wherein the copyright holder grants
permission for a server (e.g., web server 250 and/or content server
251) to broadcast copyrighted material. Under an interactive
licensing agreement, there are a variety of ways that copyrighted
material (e.g., music files) can be broadcast. For example, one
manner in which music files can be broadcast is to allow the user
to select and listen to a particular sound recording, but without
the user enabled to make a sound recording. This is commonly
referred to as an interactive with "no save" license, meaning that
the end user is unable to save or store the media content file in a
relatively permanent manner. Additionally, another manner in which
music files can be broadcast is to allow a user to not only select
and listen to a particular music file, but additionally allow the
user to save that particularly music file to disc and/or burn the
music file to a CD, MP3 player, or other portable electronic
device. This is commonly referred to as an interactive with "save"
license, meaning that the end user is enabled to save, store, or
burn to CD, the media content file.
[0067] It is noted that the DMCA allows for the "perfect"
reproduction of the sound recording. A perfect copy of a sound
recording is a one-to-one mapping of the original sound recording
into a digitized form, such that the perfect copy is virtually
indistinguishable and/or has no audible differences from the
original recording.
[0068] In one embodiment, CCM (copyright compliance mechanism) 300
can be stored in web server 250 and/or content server 251 of
network 200 and is configured to be installed into each client
computer system, e.g., 210, 220 and 230, enabled to access the
media files stored within content server 251 and/or web server 250.
Alternatively, copyright compliance mechanism 300 can be externally
disposed and communicatively coupled with a client computer system
210 via, e.g., a portable media device 100a of FIG. 1. In yet
another embodiment, CCM 300 can be configured to be operable from a
media storage device (e.g., 108) upon which media files may be
disposed.
[0069] Copyright compliance mechanism 300 is configured to be
operable while having portions of components, entire components,
combinations of components, disposed within one or more memory
units and/or data storage devices of a computer system, e.g., 210,
220, and/or 230.
[0070] Additionally, CCM 300 can be readily updated, (e.g., via
Internet 201), to reflect changes or developments in the DMCA,
copyright restrictions and/or licensing agreements pertaining to
any media file, changes in current media player applications and/or
the development of new media player applications, or to counteract
subversive and/or hacker-like attempts to unlawfully obtain one or
more media files. It is noted that updating CCM 300 can include,
but is not limited to, updating portions of components, entire
components and/or combinations of components of CCM 300 and/or
updating the data files used by the components of CCM 300.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 3, CCM 300 can include instructions 301
for enabling client computer system 210 to interact with web server
250 and content server 251 of network 200. Instructions 301 enable
client computer system 210 to interact with servers, (e.g., 250 and
251) in a network, (e.g., 200).
[0072] The copyright compliance mechanism 300 also includes, in one
embodiment, a user ID generator 302, for generating a user ID or
user key, and one or more cookie(s) which contain(s) information
specific to the user and the user's computer system, e.g., 210. In
one embodiment, the user ID and the cookie(s) are installed in
computer system 210 prior to installation of the remaining
components of the CCM 300. It is noted that the presence of a valid
cookie(s) and a valid user ID/user key are verified by web server
250 before the remaining components of a CCM 300 can be installed,
within one embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, the
user ID/user key can contain, but is not limited to, the user's
name, the user's address, the user's credit card number, an online
payment account number, a verified email address, and an identity
(username) and password selected by the user.
[0073] Furthermore, the cookie can contain, but is not limited to,
information specific to the user, information regarding the user's
computer system 210, (e.g., types of media applications operational
therewithin), a unique identifier associated with computer system
210, e.g., a MAC (media access control) address, an IP address,
and/or the serial number of the central processing unit (CPU)
operable on computer system 210 and other information specific to
the computer system and its user.
[0074] Additionally, in another embodiment, user biometrics may be
combined with computer system 210 data and user data and
incorporated into the generation of a user ID. Alternatively,
biometric data may be used in a stand alone implementation in the
generation of the user ID. Types of biometric data that may be
utilized to provide a user ID and/or authorization may include, but
is not limited to, fingerprint data, retinal scan data, handprint
data, facial recognition data, and the like.
[0075] It is noted that the information regarding the client
computer system, e.g., 210, the user of system 210, and an access
key described herein can be collectively referred to as
authorization data.
[0076] Advantageously, with information regarding the user and the
user's computer system, e.g., 210, web server 250 can determine
when a user of one computer system, e.g., 210, has given their
username and password to another user using another computer
system, e.g., 220. Because the username, password, and the user's
computer system 210 are closely associated, web server 250 can
prevent unauthorized access to copyrighted media content, in one
embodiment. It is noted that if web server 250 detects unauthorized
sharing of usernames and passwords, it can block the user of
computer system 210, as well as other users who unlawfully obtained
the username and password, from future access to copyrighted media
content available through web server 250. Web server 250 can invoke
blocking for any specified period of time, e.g., for a matter of
minutes, hours, months, years, or longer, or permanently.
[0077] Still referring to FIG. 3, copyright compliance mechanism
300 further includes a coder/decoder (codec) 303 that, in one
embodiment, is adapted to perform, but is not limited to,
encoding/decoding of media files, compressing/decompressing of
media files, and detecting that delivered media files are encrypted
as prescribed by CCM 300. In the present embodiment, coder/decoder
303 can also extract key fields from a header attached to each
media content file for, in part, verification that the file
originated from a content server, e.g., 251. It is noted that CCM
300 can include one or more codecs similar to codec 303.
[0078] In the present embodiment, coder/decoder 303 can also
perform a periodic and repeated check of the media file, while the
media file is passed to the media player application, (e.g., in a
frame by frame basis or in a buffer by buffer basis), to ensure
that CCM 300 rules are being enforced at any particular moment
during media playback. It is noted that differing coder/decoders
303 can be utilized in conjunction with various types of
copyrighted media content including, but not limited to, audio
files, video files, graphical files, alphanumeric files and the
like, such that any type of media content file can be protected in
accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
[0079] Within FIG. 3, copyright compliance mechanism 300 also
includes one or more agent programs 304 which are configured to
engage in dialogs and negotiate and coordinate transfer of
information between a computer system, (e.g., 210, 220, or 230), a
server, (e.g., web server 250 and/or content server 251), and/or
media player applications, with or without recording functionality,
that are operable within a client computer system, in one
embodiment. In the present embodiment, agent program 304 can also
be configured to maintain system state, verify that other
components are being utilized simultaneously, to be autonomously
functional without knowledge of the client, and can also present
messages, (e.g., error messages, media information, advertising,
etc.), via a display window or electronic mail. This enables
detection of proper skin implementation and detection of those
applications that are running. It is noted that agent programs are
well known in the art and can be implemented in a variety of ways
in accordance with the present embodiment.
[0080] Copyright compliance mechanism 300 also includes one or more
system hooks 305, in one embodiment of the present invention. A
system hook 305 is, in one embodiment, a library that is installed
in a computer system (e.g., 210) that intercepts system wide
events. For example, a system hook 305, in conjunction with skins
306, can govern certain properties and/or functionalities of media
player applications operating within the client computer system,
e.g., 210, including, but not limited to, mouse click shortcuts,
keyboard shortcuts, standard system accelerators, progress bars,
save functions, pause functions, rewind functions, skip track
functions, forward track preview, copying to CD, copying to a
portable electronic device, and the like.
[0081] It is noted that the term govern or governing, for purposes
of the present invention, can refer to a disabling, deactivating,
enabling, activating, etc., of a property or function. Governing
can also refer to an exclusion of that function or property, such
that a function or property may be operable but unable to perform
in the manner originally intended. For example, during the playing
of a media file, the progress bar may be selected and moved from
one location on the progress line to another without having an
effect on the play of the media file.
[0082] Within FIG. 3, it is further noted that codec 303 compares
the information for the media player application operating on
client computer system, e.g., 210, with a list of "signatures"
associated with known media recording applications. In one
embodiment, the signature can be, but is not limited to, a unique
identifier of a media player application which can consist of the
window class of the application along with a product name string
which is part of the window title for the application.
Advantageously, when new media player applications are developed,
their signatures can be readily added to the signature list via an
update of CCM 300 described herein.
[0083] The following C++ source code is an exemplary implementation
of the portion of a codec 303 or agent program 304 for performing
media recording or capture application detection, in accordance
with an embodiment of the present invention. In another embodiment,
the following source code can be modified to detect kernel
streaming mechanisms operable within a client system, (e.g.,
210).
TABLE-US-00001 int IsRecorderPresent(TCHAR * szAppClass, TCHAR *
szProdName) { TCHAR szWndText[_MAX_PATH]; /* buffer to receive
title string for window */ HWND hWnd; /* handle to target window
for operation */ int nRetVal; /* return value for operation */ /*
initialize variables */ nRetVal = 0; if ( _tcscmp(szAppClass,
_T("#32770")) == 0) { /* attempt to locate dialog box with
specified window title */ if ( FindWindow((TCHAR *) 32770,
szProdName) != (HWND) 0) { /* indicate application found */ nRetVal
= 1; } } else { /* attempt to locate window with specified class */
if ( (hWnd = FindWindow(szAppClass, (LPCTSTR) 0)) != (HWND) 0) { /*
attempt to retrieve title string for window */ if (
GetWindowText(hWnd, szWndText, _MAX_PATH) != 0) { /* attempt to
locate product name within title string */ if ( _tcsstr(szWndText,
szProdName) != (TCHAR *) 0) { /* indicate application found */
nRetVal = 1; } } } } /* return to caller */ return nRetVal; }
[0084] Within FIG. 3, it is further noted that codec 303 can also
selectively suppress media input/output operations to prevent
recording of copyrighted media on a client computer system, (e.g.,
210). For example, codec 303, subsequent to detection of bundled
media player applications operational in a client computer system
(e.g., 210) can stop or disrupt the playing of a media content
file. This can be accomplished, in one embodiment, by redirecting
and/or diverting certain data pathways that are commonly used for
recording, such that the utilized data pathway is governed by the
copyright compliance mechanism 300. In one embodiment, this can be
performed within a driver shim, (e.g., wave driver shim 309 of
FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D.
[0085] A driver shim can be utilized for nearly any software output
device, such as a standard Windows.TM. media output device (e.g.,
Windows.TM. Media Player), or a hardware output device (e.g.,
speakers or headphones). Client computer system 210 is configured
such that the driver shim (e.g., 309) appears as the default media
device to client level application programs. Thus, requests for
processing of media input and/or output will pass through the
driver shim prior to being forwarded to the actual media driver,
(e.g., media device driver 505 of FIGS. 5A-5D). Such input/output
suppression can be triggered by other components (e.g., agent 304)
of CCM 300 to be active when a recording operation is initiated by
a client computer system (e.g., 210) during the play back of media
files which are subject to the DMCA.
[0086] It is noted that alternative driver shims can be implemented
for nearly any media output device including, but not limited to, a
Windows.TM. Media Player. It is further noted that the driver shim
can be implemented for nearly any media in nearly any format
including, but not limited to, audio media files, audio input and
output devices, video, graphic and/or alphanumeric media files and
video input and output devices.
[0087] The following C++ source code is an exemplary implementation
of a portion of a codec 303 and/or a custom media device driver 307
for diverting and/or redirecting certain data pathways that are
commonly used for recording of media content, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention.
TABLE-US-00002 DWORD _stdcall widMessage(UINT uDevId, UINT uMsg,
DWORD dwUser, DWORD dwParam1, DWORD dwParam2) { BOOL bSkip; /* flag
indicating operation to be skipped */ HWND hWndMon; /* handle to
main window for monitor */ DWORD dwRetVal; /* return value for
operation */ /* initialize variables */ bSkip = FALSE; dwRetVal =
(DWORD) MMSYSERR_NOTSUPPORTED; if (uMsg == WIDM_START) { /* attempt
to locate window for monitor application */ if ( (hWndMon =
FindMonitorWindow( )) != (HWND) 0) { /* obtain setting for driver
*/ bDrvEnabled = ( SendMessage(hWndMon, uiRegMsg, 0, 0) == 0) ?
FALSE : TRUE; } if (bDrvEnabled == TRUE) { /* indicate error in
operation */ dwRetVal = MMSYSERR_NOMEM; /* indicate operation to be
skipped */ bSkip = TRUE; } } if (bSkip == FALSE) { /* invoke entry
point for original driver */ dwRetVal = CallWidMessage(uDevId,
uMsg, dwUser, dwParam1, dwParam2); } /* return to caller */ return
dwRetVal; }
[0088] It is noted that when properly configured, system hook 305
can govern nearly any function or property within nearly any media
player application that may be operational within a client computer
system, (e.g., 210). In one embodiment, system hook 305 is a DLL
(dynamic link library) file. It is further noted that system hooks
are well known in the art, and are a standard facility in a
Microsoft Windows.TM. operating environment, and accordingly can be
implemented in a variety of ways. However, it is also noted that
system hook 305 can be readily adapted for implementation in
alternative operating systems, e.g., Apple.TM. operating systems,
Sun Solaris.TM. operating systems, Linux operating systems, and
nearly any other operating system.
[0089] In FIG. 3, copyright compliance mechanism 300 also includes
one or more skins 306, which can be designed to be installed in a
client computer system, (e.g., 210, 220, and 230). In one
embodiment, skins 306 are utilized to assist in client side
compliance with the DMCA (digital millennium copyright act)
regarding copyrighted media content. Skins 306 are customizable
interfaces that, in one embodiment, are displayed on a display
device (e.g., 105) of computer system 210 and provide
functionalities for user interaction of delivered media content.
Additionally, skins 306 can also provide a display of information
relative to the media content file including, but not limited to,
media clip title, artist name, album title, artist biography, and
other features such as purchase inquiries, advertising, and the
like.
[0090] Furthermore, when system hook 305 is unable to govern a
function of the media player application operable on a client
computer system (e.g., 210) such that client computer system could
be in non-compliance with DMCA and/or RIAA restrictions, a skin 306
can be implemented to provide compliance.
[0091] Differing skins 306 can be implemented depending upon the
restrictions applicable (e.g., DMCA and/or RIAA) to each media
content file. For example, in one embodiment, a skin 306 a may be
configured for utilization with a media content file protected
under a non-interactive agreement (DMCA), such that skin 306 a may
not include a pause function, a stop function, a selector function,
and/or a save function, etc. Another skin, e.g., skin 306b may, in
one embodiment, be configured to be utilized with a media content
file protected under an interactive with "no save" agreement
(DMCA), such that skin 306 b may include a pause function, a stop
function, a selector function, and for those media files having an
interactive with "save" agreement, a save or a burn to CD
function.
[0092] Still referring to FIG. 3, it is further noted that in the
present embodiment, each skin 306 can have a unique name and
signature. In one embodiment, skin 306 can be implemented, in part,
through the utilization of integrity check data, which can be
implemented as a checksum, or a hash table constructed using a
message digest (MD) 5 hash table or similar algorithm. It is well
known in the art that a skin, e.g., skin 306, can be renamed and/or
modified to incorporate additional features and/or functionalities
in an unauthorized manner. Since modification of the skin would
change the integrity check data, without knowledge of this data,
changing the name or modification of the skin may simply serve to
disable the skin, in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention. Since copyright compliance mechanism (CCM) 300 verifies
skin 306, the use of integrity check data advantageously provide a
deterrent against modifications made to the skin 306.
[0093] In one embodiment, CCM 300 also includes one or more custom
media device driver(s) 307 for providing an even greater measure of
control over the media stream while increasing compliance
reliability. A client computer system (e.g., 210) can be configured
to utilize a custom media device application (e.g., custom media
device 310 of FIGS. 5B, 5C, and 5D) to control unauthorized
recording of media content files. A custom media device application
can be, but is not limited to, a custom media audio device
application for media files having sound content, a custom video
device application for media files having graphical and/or
alphanumeric content, etc. In one embodiment, custom media device
310 of FIG. 5B is an emulation of the custom media device driver
307. With reference to audio media, the emulation is performed in a
waveform audio driver associated with custom media device 310.
Driver 307 is configured to receive a media file being outputted by
system 210 prior to the media file being sent to a media output
device (e.g., media output device 570) and/or a media output
application (e.g., recording application 502). Examples of a media
output device includes, but is not limited to, a video card for
video files, a sound card for audio files, etc. Examples of a
recording application can include, but is not limited to, CD burner
applications for writing to another CD, ripper applications which
capture the media file and change the format of the media file,
e.g., from a CD audio file to an .mpeg audio file, and/or a .wav
file, and/or an OGG vorbis file, and various other media formats.
In one embodiment, client computer system 210 is configured with a
custom media device driver 307 emulating custom media device 310,
and which is system 210's default device driver for media file
output. In one embodiment, an existing GUI (graphical user
interface) can be utilized or a GUI can be provided, e.g., by
utilization of skin 306 or a custom web based player application or
as part of a CCM 300 installation bundle, for forcing or requiring
system 210 to have driver 307 as the default driver.
[0094] Therefore, when a media content file is received by system
210 from server 251, the media content file is playable, provided
the media content file passes through the custom media device
application (e.g., 310 of FIG. 5B), emulated by custom media device
driver 307, prior to being outputted. However, if an alternative
media player application is selected, delivered media files from
server 251 will not play on system 210.
[0095] Thus, secured media player applications would issue a media
request to the driver (e.g., 307) for the custom media device 310
which then performs necessary media input suppression, (e.g.,
waveform suppression for audio files), prior to forwarding the
request to the default Windows.TM. media driver, (e.g., waveform
audio driver for audio files).
[0096] Within FIG. 3, it is noted that requests for non-restricted
media files can pass directly through custom media device driver
307 to a Windows.TM. media driver operable on system 210, thus
reducing instances of incompatibilities with existing media player
applications that utilize media, (e.g., audio, video, etc.).
Additionally, media player applications that do not support secured
media would be unaffected. It is further noted that for either
secured media or non-restricted media, (e.g., audio, video, and/or
media files), input suppression can be triggered by other
components of CCM 300, (e.g., agents 304, system hooks 305, and
skins 306, or a combination thereof), to be active when a recording
operation is initiated simultaneously with playback of secured
media files, e.g., audio and/or video files. Custom device drivers
are well known and can be coded and implemented in a variety of
ways including, but not limited to, those found at developers
network web sites, (e.g., a Microsoft.TM. or alternative OS
(operating system) developer web sites).
[0097] Advantageously, by virtue of system 210 being configured
with a custom media device as the default device driver, (e.g., 310
of FIGS. 5B, 5C, and 5D), that is an emulation of a custom media
device driver 307, those media player applications that require
their particular device driver to be the default driver, e.g.,
Total Recorder, etc., are rendered non-functional for secured
media. Further advantageous is that an emulated custom media device
provides no native support for those media player applications used
as a recording mechanism, e.g., a DirectSound capture application,
(represented as DirectX 504 of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D) etc., that
are able to bypass user-mode drivers for most media devices.
Additionally, by virtue of the media content being sent through
device driver 307, thus effectively disabling unauthorized
saving/recording of media files, in one embodiment, media files
that are delivered in a secured delivery system do not have to be
encrypted, although, in another embodiment they still may be
encrypted. By virtue of non-encrypted media files utilizing less
storage space and network resources than encrypted media files,
networks having limited resources can utilize the functionalities
of driver 307 of CCM 300 to provide compliance with copyright
restrictions and/or licensing agreements applicable with a media
content file without having the processing overhead of encrypted
media files.
[0098] FIG. 4 is an exemplary system400 for implementing a
copyright compliance mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of
the present invention. Specifically, system 400 illustrates web
server 250, content server 251, or a combination of web server 250
and content server 251 installing a copyright compliance mechanism
(e.g., 300) in a client's computer system (e.g., 210) for
controlling media file distribution and controlling user access and
interaction of copyrighted media files, in one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0099] Client computer system 210 can communicatively couple with a
network (e.g., 200) to request a media file, a list of available
media files, or a play list of audio files, e.g., MP3 files, etc.
In response, web server 250 determines if the request originates
from a registered user authorized to receive media files associated
with the request. If the user is not registered with the network,
web server 250 can initiate a registration process with the
requesting client 210. Client registration can be accomplished in a
variety of ways. For example, web server 250 may deliver to client
210 a registration form having various text entry fields into which
the user can enter required information. A variety of information
can be requested from the user by web server 250 including, but not
limited to, user's name, address, phone number, credit card number,
online payment account number, biometric identification (e.g.,
fingerprint, retinal scan, etc.), verifiable email address, and the
like. In addition, registration can, in one embodiment, include the
user selecting a username and password.
[0100] Still referring to FIG. 4, web server 250 can, in one
embodiment, detect information related to the client's computer
system 210 and store that information in a user/media database 450.
For example, web server 250 can detect a unique identifier of
client computer system 210. In one embodiment, the unique
identifier can be the MAC (media access control) address of a NIC
(network interface card) of client computer system 210 or the MAC
address of the network interface adapter integrated on the
motherboard of system 210. It is understood that a NIC enables a
client computer system 210 to access web server 250 via a network
such as Internet 201. It is well known that each NIC typically has
a unique identifying number MAC address. Further, web server 250
can, in one embodiment, detect and store (also in database 450)
information regarding the type(s) of media player application(s),
e.g., Windows Media Player.TM., Real Player.TM., iTunes player.TM.
(Apple), Live 365.TM. player, and those media player applications
having recording functionality (e.g., Total Recorder, Cool Edit
2000, Sound Forge, Sound Recorder, Super MP3 Recorder, and the
like) that are present and operable in client computer system 210.
In one embodiment, the client information is verified for accuracy
and is then stored in a user database (e.g., 450) within web server
250.
[0101] Subsequent to registration completion, creation of the user
ID and password, and obtaining information regarding client
computer system 210, all or part of this information can be
installed in client computer system 210. In one embodiment, client
computer system 210 information can be in the form of a cookie. Web
server 250 then verifies that the user and client computer system
210 data is properly installed therein and that their integrity has
not been compromised. Subsequently, web server 250 installs a
copyright compliance mechanism (e.g., 300) into the client's
computer system, e.g., 210, in one embodiment of the present
invention. It is noted that web server 250 may not initiate
installation of CCM 300 until the user ID, password, and client
computer system 210 information is verified. A variety of common
techniques can be employed to install an entire CCM 300, portions
of its components, entire components, and/or combinations or a
function of its components. For example, copyright compliance
mechanism 300 can be installed in a hidden directory within client
computer system 210, thereby preventing unauthorized access to it.
In one embodiment it is noted that unless CCM 300 is installed in
client computer system 210, its user will not be able to request,
access, or have delivered thereto, media files stored by web server
250 and/or content server 251.
[0102] Referring still to FIG. 4, upon completion of client
registration and installation of CCM 300, client computer system
210 can then request a media play list or a plurality of play
lists, etc. In response, web server 250 determines whether the user
of client computer system 210 is authorized to receive the media
play list associated with the request. In one embodiment, web
server 250 can request the user's username and password.
Alternatively, web server 250 can utilize user database 450 to
verify that computer 210 is authorized to receive a media play
list. If client computer 210 is not authorized, web server 250 can
initiate client registration, as described herein. Additionally,
web server 250 can disconnect computer 210 or redirect it to an
alternative web site. Regardless, if the user and client computer
system 210 are not authorized, web server 250 will not provide the
requested play list to client computer system 210.
[0103] However, if client computer system 210 is authorized, web
server 210 can check copyright compliance mechanism 300 within data
base 450 to determine if it, or any of the components therein, have
been updated since the last time client computer system 210 logged
into web server 250. If a component of CCM 300 has been updated,
web server 250 can install the updated component and/or a more
current version of CCM 300 into client computer system 210, e.g.,
via Internet 201. If CCM 300 has not been updated, web server 250
can then deliver the requested media play list to system 210 via
Internet 201 along with an appended user key or user identification
(ID). It is noted that user database 450 can also include data for
one or more media play lists that can be utilized to provide a
media play list to client computer system 210. Subsequently, the
user of client computer system 210 can utilize the received media
play list in combination with the media player application
operating on system 210 to transmit a delivery request for one or
more desired pieces of media content from web server 250. It is
noted that the delivery request contains the user key for
validation purposes.
[0104] Still referring to FIG. 4, upon receiving the media content
delivery request, web server 250 can then check the validity of the
requesting media application and the attached user key. In one
embodiment, web server 250 can utilize user database 450 to check
their validity. If either or both are invalid, web server 250, in
one embodiment, can redirect unauthorized client computer system
210 to an alternative destination to prevent abuse of the system.
However, if both the requesting media application and the user key
are valid, CCM 300 verifies that skins 306 are installed in client
computer system 210. Additionally, CCM 300 further verifies that
system hook(s) 305 have been run or are running to govern certain
functions of those media player applications operable within client
computer system 210 that are known to provide non-compliance with
one or more restricted use standards such as the DMCA and/or the
RIAA. Additionally, CCM 300 further diverts and/or redirects
certain pathways that are commonly used for recording, e.g., driver
307 of FIG. 5A, device 310 of FIG. 5B, device 570 of FIG. 5C, and
driver 505 of FIG. 5D. Once CCM 300 has performed the above
described functions, web server 250 then, in one embodiment, issues
to the client computer 210 a redirect command to the current
address location of the desired media file content along with an
optional time sensitive access key, e.g., for that hour, day, or
other defined timeframe.
[0105] In response to the client computer system 210 receiving the
redirect command from web server 250, the media player application
operating on client computer system 210 automatically transmits a
new request and the time sensitive access key to content server 251
for delivery of one or more desired pieces of media content. The
validity of the time sensitive access key is checked by content
server 251. If invalid, unauthorized client computer 210 is
redirected by content server 250 to protect against abuse of the
system and unauthorized access to content server 251. If the time
sensitive access key is valid, content server 251 retrieves the
desired media content from content database 451 and delivers it to
client computer system 210. It is noted that, in one embodiment,
the delivered media content can be stored in hidden directories
and/or custom file systems that may be hidden within client
computer system 210 thereby preventing future unauthorized
distribution. In one embodiment, an HTTP (hypertext transfer
protocol) file delivery system is used to deliver the requested
media files, meaning that the media files are delivered in their
entirety to client computer system 210, as compared to streaming
media which delivers small portions of the media file.
[0106] Still referring to FIG. 4, it is noted that each media file
has had, in one embodiment, a header attached therewith prior to
delivery of the media file. In one embodiment, the header can
contain information relating to the media file, e.g., title or
media ID, media data such as size, type of data, and the like. The
header can also contain a sequence or key that is recognizable to
copyright compliance mechanism 300 that identifies the media file
as originating from content server 251. In one embodiment, the
header sequence/key can also contain instructions for invoking the
licensing agreements and/or copyright restrictions that are
applicable to that particular media file.
[0107] Additionally, if licensing agreements and/or copyright
restrictions are changed, developed, or created, or if new media
player applications, with or without recording functionality, are
developed, CCM 300 has appropriate modifications made to portions
of components, entire components, combinations of components,
and/or the entire CCM 300 to enable continued compliance with
licensing agreements and/or copyright restrictions. Furthermore,
subsequent to modification of copyright compliance mechanism 300,
modified portions of,-or the entire updated CCM 300 can be
installed in client computer system 210 in a variety of ways. For
example, the updated CCM 300 can be installed during client
interaction with web server 250, during user log-in, and/or while
client computer system 210 is receiving the keyed play list.
[0108] Referring still to FIG. 4, it is further noted that, in one
embodiment, the media files and attached headers can be encrypted
prior to being stored within content server 251. In one embodiment,
the media files can be encrypted utilizing randomly generated keys.
Alternatively, variable length keys can be utilized for encryption.
It is noted that the key to decrypt the encrypted media files can
be stored in database 450, content database 451 or in some
combination of databases 450 and 451. It is further noted that the
messages being passed back and forth between client computer system
210 and web server 250 can also be encrypted, thereby protecting
the media files and the data being exchanged from unauthorized use
or access. There are a variety of encryption mechanisms and
programs that can be implemented to encrypt this data including,
but not limited to, exclusive OR, shifting with adds, public domain
encryption programs such as Blowfish, and non-public domain
encryption mechanisms. It is also noted that each media file can be
uniquely encrypted, such that if the encryption code is cracked for
one media file, it is not applicable to other media files.
Alternatively, groups of media files can be similarly encrypted.
Furthermore, in another embodiment, the media files may not be
encrypted when being delivered to a webcaster known to utilize a
proprietary media player application, e.g., custom media device
driver 307.
[0109] Subsequent to media file decryption, the media file may be
passed through CCM 300, (e.g., coder/decoder 303), to a media
player application operating on client computer system 210, (e.g.
playback application 501 of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, and 6), which can
then access and utilize the delivered high fidelity media content,
enabling its user(s) to experience the media content, e.g., listen
to it, watch it, view it, or the like. In one embodiment of the
present invention, a specialized or custom media player may or may
not be required to experience the media content, (e.g., skin 306 of
FIG. 3). A skin 306 may be necessary when CCM 300 cannot modify an
industry standard media player application to comply with copyright
restrictions and/or licensing agreements in accordance with the
DMCA. Alternatively, an industry standard media player can be
utilized by client computer system 210 to experience the media
content. Typically, many media player applications are available
and can include, but are not limited to, Windows.TM. Media
Player.TM. for PCs (personal computers), iTunes.TM. Player or
QuickTime.TM. for Apple computers, and XMMS player for computers
utilizing a Linux operating system. Regardless of the media player
application utilized, while the media file is passed to the media
player application, e.g., in a frame by frame basis or in a buffer,
coder/decoder 303 will repeatedly ensure that CCM 300 rules are
being enforced at any particular moment during media playback,
shown as step 750 of FIG. 7C.
[0110] As the media file content is delivered to the media player
application, periodically, (e.g., after a specified number of
frames, after a defined period of time, or any desired time or data
period), coder/decoder 303 repeatedly determines whether or not all
the rules, as defined by CCM 300, are enforced. If the rules are
not enforced, (e.g., a user opening up a recording application such
as Total Recorder or an alternative application), the presentation
of the media content is, in one embodiment, suspended or halted. In
another embodiment, the presentation of the media content can be
modified to output the media content in a non-visible manner (e.g.,
no picture) or non-audible manner (e.g., silence). In yet another
embodiment, the media content may be visible or audible but
recording functionality can be disabled, such that the media
content cannot be recorded. These presentation stoppages are
collectively shown as step 751 of FIG. 7C.
[0111] If the rules in accordance with CCM 300 are enforced, the
codec/decoder 303 retrieves a subsequent portion of the media
content that is stored locally in client computer system 210. The
newly retrieved portion of the media file is then presented by the
client's media player application. While the newly retrieved
portion is presented, CCM 300 again checks that the rules are
enforced, and retrieves an additional portion of the media file or
suspends presentation of the media file if the rules are not being
enforced. These operations are performed repeatedly throughout the
playback of the media file, in a loop environment, until the media
file's contents have been presented in their entirety.
Advantageously, by constantly monitoring during playing of media
files, CCM 300 can detect undesired activities and enforces those
rules as defined by CCM 300.
[0112] FIG. 5A is an exemplary logic/bit path block diagram 500 A
showing utilization of a media shim driver, (e.g., 309 of FIG. 3),
in conjunction with copyright compliance mechanism 300, for
selectively controlling recording of copyrighted media received by
a client computer system, (e.g., system 210), in one embodiment of
the present invention. Copyright compliance mechanism 300 is, in
one embodiment, installed and operational on client system 210 in
the manner described herein.
[0113] In one embodiment, a copyright compliance mechanism 300 is
shown as being communicatively coupled with a media playback
application 501 via coupling 520. Therefore, CCM 300 is enabled to
communicate with playback application 501. In one embodiment, CCM
300 can be integrated into a media playback application. CCM 300 is
also coupled to and controls a selectable switch 311 in media shim
driver 309(as described in FIG. 3) via coupling 522. CCM 300 is
further coupled to and controls a selectable switch 511 in DirectX
504 via coupling 521. Depending upon the copyright restrictions and
licensing agreements applicable to an incoming media file, (e.g.,
499), CCM 300 controls whether switches 311 and 511 are open
(shown), thus preventing incoming media 499 from reaching a media
recording application, or closed (not shown) to allow recording of
incoming media 499.
[0114] For example, incoming media 499 may originate from a content
server, e.g., 251, coupled to system 210. In another example,
incoming media 499 may originate from a personal
recording/electronic device, (e.g., a MP3 player/recorder or
similar device), coupled to system 210. Alternatively, incoming
media 499 may originate from a magnetic, optical or alternative
media storage device inserted into a media device player coupled to
system 210, (e.g., a CD or DVD inserted into a CD or DVD player), a
hard disk in a hot swappable hard drive, an SD (secure digital
card) inserted into a SD reader, and the like. In yet another
example, incoming media 499 may originate from another media player
application or media recording application. Incoming media 499 may
also originate from a satellite radio feed (e.g., XM radio), a
personal communication device (e.g., a mobile phone), a cable
television radio input, e.g., DMX (digital music express), a
digital distribution and/or a public presentation source via a
network, Internet or other communication connection, pay-per-view
and/or pay-per-play system, or a set-top box. It is noted that
incoming media 499 can originate from nearly any source that can be
coupled to system 210, However, regardless of the source of
incoming media 499, embodiments of the present invention, described
herein, can prevent unauthorized recording of the media 499.
[0115] FIG. 5A shows a media playback application 501, (e.g., an
audio, video, or other media player application), operable within
system 210 and configured to receive incoming media 499. Playback
application 501 can be a playback application provided by an
operating system, (e.g., Media Player for Windows.TM. by
Microsoft), a freely distributed playback application downloadable
from the Internet, (e.g., RealPlayer or LiquidAudio), a playback
application provided by a webcaster, (e.g., PressPlay), or a
playback application commercially available.
[0116] Media device driver 505 in one embodiment, may be a software
driver for a sound card coupled to system 210 having a media output
device 570, (e.g., speakers or headphones), coupled therewith for
media files having audio content. In another implementation, media
device driver 505 may be a software driver for a video card coupled
with a display device, (e.g., 105), for displaying media files
having alphanumeric and/or graphical content, and so on. With
reference to audio files, it is well known that a majority of
recording applications assume a computer system, (e.g., 210), has a
sound card disposed therein, providing full-duplex sound
functionality to system 210. This means media output driver 505 can
simultaneously cause playback and recording of incoming media files
499. For example, media device driver 505 can playback media 499
along wave-out line 539 to media output device 570 (e.g., speakers
for audible playback) via output line 580 while outputting media
499 on output line 540 to eventually reach recording application
502.
[0117] For purposes of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D, the terms input
line and output line are referenced from the perspective of media
device driver 505. Additionally, for the most part, input lines are
depicted downwardly and output lines are depicted upwardly in FIGS.
5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D.
[0118] Continuing with FIG. 5A, playback application 501 is coupled
with an operating system (O/S) multimedia subsystem 503 via input
line 531. O/S multimedia subsystem 503 is coupled to a media shim
driver 309 via input line 533 and output line 546. O/S multimedia
subsystem 503 is also coupled to recording application 502 via
output line 548. Operating system (O/S) multimedia subsystem 503
can be any O/S multimedia subsystem, e.g., a Windows.TM. multimedia
subsystem for system 210 operating under a Microsoft O/S, a
QuickTime.TM. multimedia subsystem for system 210 operating under
an Apple O/S, and the like. Playback application 501 is also
coupled with DirectX 504 via input line 551.
[0119] DirectX 504, in one embodiment, may represent access to a
hardware acceleration feature in a standard audio device, enabling
lower level access to components within media device driver 505. In
another embodiment, DirectX 504 may represent a path that can be
used by a recording application, (e.g., Total Recorder), that can
be further configured to bypass the default device driver, (e.g.,
media device driver 505), to capture incoming media 499 for
recording. For example, DirectX 504 can be enabled to capture
incoming media 499 via input line 551 and unlawfully output media
499 to recording application 502 via output line 568, as well as
media 499 eventually going to media device driver 505, the standard
default driver.
[0120] Still referring to FIG. 5A, media shim driver 309 is coupled
with media device driver 505 via input line 537 and output line
542. Media device driver 505 is coupled with DirectX 504 via input
line 553 which is shown to converge with input line 537 at media
device driver 505. Media device driver 505 is also coupled with
DirectX 504 via output line 566.
[0121] Output lines 542 and 566 are shown to diverge from output
line 540 at media device driver 505 into separate paths. Output
line 542 is coupled to media shim driver 309 and output line 566 is
coupled to DirectX 504. When selectable switches 311 and 511 are
open (shown), incoming media 499 cannot flow to recording
application 502, thus preventing unauthorized recording of it.
[0122] For example, incoming media 499 is received at playback
application 501. Playback application 501 activates and
communicates to CCM 300 regarding copyright restrictions and/or
licensing agreements applicable to incoming media 499. If recording
restrictions apply to media 499, CCM 300 can, in one embodiment,
open switches 311 and 511, thereby blocking access to recording
application 502 to effectively prevent unauthorized recording of
media 499. In one embodiment, CCM 300 can detect if system 210 is
configured with DirectX 504 selected as the default driver to
capture incoming media 499, via input line 551, or a recording
application is detected and/or a hardware accelerator is active,
such that wave driver shim 309 can be bypassed by DirectX 504. Upon
detection, CCM 300 can control switch 511 such that the output
path, output line 568, to recording application 502 is blocked. It
is further noted that CCM 300 can detect media recording
applications and devices as described herein, with reference to
FIG. 3.
[0123] Alternatively, if media device driver 505 is selected as the
default driver, incoming media 499 is output from playback
application 501 to O/S multimedia subsystem 503 via input line 531.
From subsystem 503, media 499 is output to media shim driver 309
via input line 533. The media shim driver 309 was described herein
with reference to FIG. 3. Media 499 is output from media shim
driver 309 to media device driver 505 via input line 537. Once
received by media device driver 505, media 499 can be output via
output line 539 to media output device 570 coupled therewith via
output line 580. Additionally, media device driver 505 can
simultaneously output media 499 on output line 540 back to media
shim driver 309. Dependent upon recording restrictions applicable
to media 499, CCM 300 can, in one embodiment, close switch 311 (not
shown as closed), thereby allowing media 499 to be output from
media shim driver 309 to subsystem 503 (via output line 546) and
then to recording application 502 via output line 548.
Alternatively, CCM 300 can also open switch 311, thereby preventing
media 499 from reaching recording application 502.
[0124] It is noted that by virtue of CCM 300 controlling both
switches 311 and 511, and therefore controlling output line 548 and
output line 568leading into recording application 502, incoming
media files, (e.g., 499), can be prevented from being recorded in
an unauthorized manner in accordance with applicable copyright
restrictions and/or licensing agreements related to the incoming
media 499. It is also noted that embodiments of the present
invention in no way interfere with or inhibit the playback of
incoming media 499.
[0125] FIG. 5B is an exemplary logic/bit path block diagram 500B of
a client computer system, (e.g., 210), configured with a copyright
compliance mechanism 300 for preventing unauthorized recording of
copyrighted media according to an embodiment of the present
invention. Copyright compliance mechanism 300 is, in one
embodiment, coupled with and operational on client system 210 in
the manner described herein with reference to FIGS. 4, 5A, 5C, 5D,
6, and 7.
[0126] Diagram 500B of FIG. 5B is similar to diagram 500 A of FIG.
5A, with a few changes. Particularly, diagram 500B includes a
custom media device 310 communicatively interposed between and
coupled to O/S multimedia subsystem 503 and media shim driver 309.
Custom media device 310 is coupled to O/S multimedia subsystem via
input line 533 and output line 546. Custom media device 310 is
coupled with media shim driver 309 via input line 535 and output
line 544. Additionally, custom media device 310 is coupled with
DirectX 504 via input line 553 which converges with input line 533
and output line 566 which diverges from output line 546, in one
embodiment.
[0127] Diagram 500B also includes a media hardware output device
570 that is coupled to media device hardware driver 505 via line
580. Media hardware output device 570 can be, but is not limited
to, a sound card for audio playback, a video card for video,
graphical, alphanumeric output, and the like.
[0128] In one embodiment, CCM 300 is communicatively coupled with
playback application 501 via coupling 520, waveform driver shim 309
via coupling 522, and custom media device 310 via coupling 525. CCM
300 is coupled to and controls selectable switch 311 in waveform
driver shim 309 via coupling 522. CCM 300 is also coupled to and
controls selectable switch 312 in custom media device 310 via
coupling 525. Depending upon the copyright restrictions and
licensing agreements applicable to an incoming media file, (e.g.,
media 499), CCM 300 controls whether switches 311 and 312 are open
(shown), thus preventing the incoming media 499 from reaching a
recording application, or closed (not shown) so as to allow
recording of the incoming media 499.
[0129] Continuing with FIG. 5B, DirectX 504 is coupled with custom
media device 310 via input line 553, instead of being coupled with
media device driver 505 (FIG. 5A). In one embodiment, custom media
device 310 mandates explicit selection through system 210, meaning
that custom media device 310 needs to be selected as a default
driver of system 210. By virtue of having the selection of custom
media device 310 as the default driver of system 210, the data path
necessary for DirectX 504 to capture the media content can be
selectively closed.
[0130] For example, incoming media 499 originating from nearly any
source described herein with reference to FIG. 5A is received by
media playback application 501 of system 210. Playback application
501 communicates to CCM 300, via coupling 520, to determine whether
incoming media 499 is protected by any copyright restrictions
and/or licensing agreements. Playback application 501 communicates
with CCM 300 to control switch 311 and 312 accordingly. For
example, if recording of incoming media 499 would violate
applicable restrictions and/or agreements, switch 312 is in an open
position (as shown), such that the output path to recording
application 502, (e.g., output line 548 and/or output line 568), is
effectively blocked thereby preventing unauthorized recording of
media 499.
[0131] Alternatively, if media device driver 505 is selected as the
default driver, incoming media 499 continues from O/S multimedia
subsystem 503, through custom media device 310, wave driver shim
309, and into media device driver 505 where media 499 can be
simultaneously output to media output device 570 via line 580, and
output on output line 540 media shim driver 309 on output line 542.
However, by virtue of CCM 300 controlling switch 311, output line
544 which eventually leads to recording application 502 is blocked,
thus effectively preventing unauthorized recording of media
499.
[0132] It is noted that by virtue of CCM 300 controlling both
switches 311 and 312 and therefore controlling output line 548 and
output line 568, any incoming media files, (e.g., 499), can be
prevented from being recorded in an unauthorized manner in
accordance with applicable copyright restrictions and/or licensing
agreements related to the incoming media 499.
[0133] Still referring to FIG. 5B, it is further noted that custom
media device 310 allows for unfettered playback of incoming media
499. Additionally, at any time during playback of media 499, custom
media device 310 can be dynamically activated by CCM 300.
[0134] FIG. 5C is an exemplary logic/bit path block diagram 500C of
a client computer system, (e.g., 210), configured with a copyright
compliance mechanism 300 for preventing unauthorized output and
unauthorized recording of copyrighted media according to an
embodiment of the present invention. Copyright compliance mechanism
300 is, in one embodiment, coupled with and operational on client
system 210 in the manner described herein with reference to FIGS.
4, 5A, 5B, 5D, 6, and 7.
[0135] Diagram 500C of FIG. 5C is similar to diagram 500B of FIG.
5B, with a few changes. Particularly, media hardware output device
570 is shown to include a switch 571 controlled by CCM 300 via
communication line 523, similar to switches 311 and 312, for
controlling output of incoming media 499. Diagram 500C includes
media hardware output device 570 that is coupled with a media
device driver 505. In one embodiment, media hardware output device
570 can be a S/PDIF (Sony/Phillips Digital Interface) card for
providing multiple outputs, (e.g., an analog output 573 and a
digital output 575). An alternative media hardware output device
providing similar digital output can also be implemented as device
570 including, but not limited to, a USB (universal serial bus)
output device and/or an externally accessible USB port located on
system 210, a FireWire (IEEE1394) output device and/or an
externally accessible FireWire port located on system 210, with
wireline or wireless communication functionality.
[0136] In one embodiment, CCM 300 is communicatively coupled with
playback application 501 via coupling 520, waveform driver shim 309
via coupling 522, custom media device 310 via coupling 525, and
media hardware output device 570 via coupling 523. CCM 300 is
coupled to and controls selectable switch 311 in waveform driver
shim 309 via coupling 522. CCM 300 is also coupled to and controls
selectable switch 312 in custom media device 310 via coupling 525.
CCM 300 is further coupled to and controls selectable switch 571 in
media hardware output device 570 via coupling 523. Depending upon
the copyright restrictions and licensing agreements applicable to
an incoming media file, (e.g., media 499), CCM 300 controls whether
switches 311 and 312 are open (shown), thus preventing the incoming
media 499 from reaching a recording application, or closed (not
shown) so as to allow recording of the incoming media 499.
Additionally, CCM 300 controls whether switch 571 is open (shown),
thus preventing incoming media 499 from being output from digital
output 575 of media hardware output device 570, or closed (not
shown) to allow incoming media 499 to be output from media hardware
output device 570.
[0137] By controlling media hardware output device 570, copyright
compliance mechanism 300 can prevent unauthorized output of
incoming media 499 to, e.g., a digital recording device that may be
coupled with digital output 575 of media hardware output device
570. Accordingly, in one embodiment, CCM 300 is enabled to also
detect digital recording devices that may be coupled to a digital
output line, e.g., 575, of a media hardware output device, (e.g.,
570). Examples of a digital recording device that can be coupled to
media hardware output device 570 includes, but is not limited to,
mini-disc recorders, MP3 recorders, personal digital recorders,
digital recording devices coupled with multimedia systems, personal
communication devices, set-top boxes, and/or nearly any digital
device that can capture incoming media 499 being output from media
hardware output device 570, (e.g., a sound card, video card,
etc.).
[0138] Within FIG. 5C, DirectX 504 is shown coupled with custom
media device 310 via input line 553, instead of being coupled with
media device driver 505 (FIG. 5A). In one embodiment, custom media
device 310 mandates explicit selection through system 210, meaning
that custom media device 310 needs to be selected as a default
driver of system 210. By virtue of having the selection of custom
media device 310 as the default driver of system 210, the data path
necessary for DirectX 504 to capture the media content can be
selectively closed.
[0139] For example, incoming media 499 originating from nearly any
source with reference to FIG. 5A is received by media playback
application 501 of system 210. Playback application 501
communicates to CCM 300, via coupling 520, to determine whether
incoming media 499 is protected by any copyright restrictions
and/or licensing agreements. Playback application 501 communicates
with CCM 300 to control switch 311, 312, and 571 accordingly. In
the present example, recording of incoming media 499 would violate
applicable restrictions and/or agreements and therefore switch 312
is in an open position, such that the output path to recording
application 502, (e.g., output line 548 and/or output line 568), is
effectively blocked, thereby preventing unauthorized recording of
media 499.
[0140] Alternatively, if media device driver 505 is selected as the
default driver, incoming media 499 continues from 0/S multimedia
subsystem 503 through custom media device 310, wave driver shim
309, and into media device driver 505 where media 499 can be
simultaneously output to media output device 570 via line 580, and
output on output line 540 to media shim driver 309 on output line
542. However, by virtue of CCM 300 controlling switch 311, output
line 544 which eventually leads to recording application 502 is
blocked, thus effectively preventing unauthorized recording of
media 499.
[0141] It is noted that by virtue of CCM 300 controlling both
switches 311 and 312 and therefore controlling output line 548 and
output line 568, any incoming media files, (e.g., 499), can be
prevented from being recording in an unauthorized manner in
accordance with applicable copyright restrictions and/or licensing
agreements related to the incoming media.
[0142] Still referring to FIG. 5C, it is noted that although CCM
300 can prevent unauthorized recording of incoming media 499 by
controlling switches 311 and 312, thus preventing incoming media
499 from reaching recording application 502, controlling switches
311 and 312 do nothing to prevent incoming media 499 from being
captured by a peripheral digital device, (e.g., a mini-disc
recorder, etc.), coupled to digital output 575 of device 570. Thus,
by also controlling digital output 575 of media hardware output
device 570 via switch 571, CCM 300 can prevent unauthorized
capturing of incoming media 499 from output 575, (e.g., on a sound
card for audio files, a video card for video and/or graphical
files), regardless of whether incoming media 499 is received in a
secure and encrypted manner. However, when switch 571 is in a
closed position, incoming media 499 may be played back in an
unfettered manner. Additionally, at any time during playback of
media 499, switch 312 of custom media device 310, switch 311 of
media device driver 309, and/or switch 571 of media hardware output
device 570 can be dynamically activated by CCM 300.
[0143] FIG. 5D is an exemplary logic/bit path block diagram 500D of
a client computer system, (e.g., 210), configured with a copyright
compliance mechanism 300 for preventing unauthorized kernel based
output and unauthorized recording of copyrighted media according to
an embodiment of the present invention. Copyright compliance
mechanism 300 is, in one embodiment, coupled with and operational
on client system 210 in the manner described herein with reference
to FIGS. 4, 5A, 5B, 5C, 6, and 7.
[0144] Diagram 500D of FIG. 5D is similar to diagram 500C of FIG.
5C, with some changes. Particularly, diagram 500D includes a kernel
streaming mechanism 515, (e.g., DirectKS), that is coupled with
media device driver 505. In one embodiment, DirectKS 515 can be
used for establishing a direct connection with media device driver
505. In the present embodiment, media device driver 505 is shown to
include a switch 511 controlled by CCM 300 via communication line
524, that is similar to switches 311, 312, and 571, for controlling
output of incoming media 499.
[0145] In one embodiment, CCM 300 is communicatively coupled with:
playback application 501 via coupling 520, waveform driver shim 309
via coupling 522, custom media device 310 via coupling 525, and
media device driver 505 via coupling 524. Specifically, CCM 300 is
coupled to and controls selectable switch 311 of waveform driver
shim 309 via coupling 522. CCM 300 is also coupled to and controls
selectable switch 312 of custom media device 310 via coupling 525.
CCM 300 is further coupled to and controls selectable switch 511 of
media device driver 505 via coupling 524. Depending upon the
copyright restrictions and/or licensing agreements applicable to an
incoming media file, (e.g., media 499), CCM 300 controls whether
switches 311 and 312 are open (shown), thus preventing the incoming
media 499 from reaching a recording application, or closed (not
shown) so as to allow recording of the incoming media 499.
Additionally, CCM 300 controls whether switch 511 is open (shown),
thus preventing incoming media 499 from capturing incoming media
499 and redirecting it to recording application 502 to create an
unauthorized copy or recording of incoming media 499. CCM 300 can
also control whether switch 511 is closed (not shown) to allow
DirectKS 515 to capture and redirect incoming media 499 to
recording application 502.
[0146] DirectKS 515, in one embodiment, may represent a kernel
streaming mechanism that is adapted to establish a direct
connection with media device driver 505 of an operating system
operable on client computer system 210, enabling kernel level
access to media device driver 505. A kernel streaming mechanism can
be implemented for the purpose of precluding utilization of
standard audio APIs (application programming interfaces) to play or
record media content, with particular attention paid to those
playback applications with low latency requirements. DirectKS 515
can bypass existing APIs and communicate with media device driver
505. DirectKS 515 can be readily adapted to work in conjunction
with a playback application, (e.g., 501), via coupling 581 to
capture incoming media 499 and redirect it to driver 505 via
coupling 583 and then to recording application 502 via output line
588. Accordingly, DirectKS 515 can be implemented to create
unauthorized media recordings.
[0147] By controlling media device driver 505, copyright compliance
mechanism 300 can prevent unauthorized output of incoming media 499
to, e.g., a digital recording device 529 that may be coupled with
recording application 502. In one embodiment, media device driver
505 is configured through the kernel mixer (not shown) to control
the data path. Additionally, in one embodiment CCM 300 is enabled
to also detect a kernel streaming mechanism 515 (e.g., DirectKS)
that may be operable on client computer system 210, as described
herein with reference to FIG. 3.
[0148] In one embodiment, custom media device 310 mandates explicit
selection through system 210, meaning that custom media device 310
needs to be selected as a default driver of system 210. By virtue
of having the selection of custom media device 310 as the default
driver of system 210, the data path necessary for DirectX 504 to
capture the media content is selectively closed.
[0149] For example, incoming media 499 originating from nearly any
source described herein with reference to FIG. 5A is received by
media playback application 501 of system 210. Playback application
501 communicates to CCM 300, via connection 520, to determine
whether incoming media 499 is protected by any copyright
restrictions and/or licensing agreements. Playback application 501
communicates with CCM 300 to control switches 311, 312, 571, and
511, accordingly. In the present example, recording of incoming
media 499 would violate applicable restrictions and/or agreements
and there (e.g., output line 548 and/or output line 568 and/or
output line 588), is effectively blocked, thereby preventing
unauthorized recording of media 499.
[0150] Still referring to FIG. 5D, it is particularly noted that
although CCM 300 can prevent unauthorized recording of incoming
media 499 by controlling switches 311, 312, and 571, thus
preventing incoming media 499 from reaching recording application
502, controlling switches 311, 312, and 571, do nothing to prevent
incoming media 499 from being returned to recording application 502
by a kernel streaming mechanism 515 (e.g., DirectKS), which enables
capturing and redirecting of incoming media 499 to recording
application 502, via output line 588. Thus, by also controlling
switch 511 of media device driver 505, CCM 300 can prevent kernel
streaming mechanism 515from returning incoming media 499 to
recording application 502, thereby preventing incoming media 499
from being captured and redirected to recording application 502 in
an attempt to create an unauthorized copy and/or recording of
incoming media 499. However, when switch 511 is in a closed
position, incoming media 499 may be returned to recording
application 502, such that recording could be possible, provided
recording does not violate copyright restrictions and/or licensing
agreements applicable to incoming media 499. Additionally, at any
time during playback of media 499, switch 312 of custom media
device 310, switch 311 of media shim driver 309, and/or switch 511
of media device driver 505 can be dynamically activated by CCM
300.
[0151] FIG. 6 is an block diagram of a media file, (e.g., 499),
adapted to be received by a playback application, (e.g., 501 of
FIGS. 5A-5D), configured with an indicator 605for enabling incoming
media 499 to comply with rules according to the SCMS (serial copy
management system). When applicable to a media file, e.g., 499, the
SCMS allows for one copy of a copyrighted media file to be made,
but not for copies of copies to be made. Thus, if incoming media
499 can be captured by a recording application, (e.g., 501 of FIGS.
5A-5D), and/or a recording device, (e.g.529), and/or a peripheral
recording device and/or a recording application coupled to a
digital output of a media hardware output device, (e.g., digital
output 575 of media hardware output device 570 of FIGS. 5B, 5C, and
5D), and/or a kernel streaming mechanism 515, (e.g., DirectKS 515
of FIG. 5D), unauthorized copying and/or recording may be
accomplished.
[0152] Playback application 501 is coupled with CCM 300 via
communication line 520 in a manner analogous to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C,
and/or 5D. Although not shown in FIG. 6, it is noted that CCM 300
is also coupled to switches 311 and 511 as shown in FIG. 5A,
switches 311 and 312 in FIG. 5B, switches 311, 312, and 571 in FIG.
5C, and switches 312, 311, 571, and 511, in FIG. 5D.
[0153] In one embodiment, an indicator 605 is attached to incoming
media 499 for preventing unauthorized copying or recording in
accordance with the SCMS. In one embodiment, indicator 605 can be a
bit that may be transmitted prior to beginning the delivery of
incoming media 499 to playback application 501. In another
embodiment, indicator 605 may be placed at the beginning of the bit
stream of incoming media 499. In yet another embodiment, indicator
605 may be placed within a frame period of incoming media 499,
(e.g., every fifth frame), or any other desired frame period. In
another embodiment, indicator 605 may be transmitted at a
particular time interval or intervals during delivery of the media
file, (e.g., 499). Thus, indicator 605 may be placed nearly
anywhere within or attached to the bit stream related to incoming
media 499.
[0154] Within FIG. 6, indicator 605 may be comprised of various
indicators, (e.g., a level 0 indicator, a level 1 indicator, and a
level 2 indicator), in one embodiment of the present invention. In
the present embodiment, a level 0 indicator may be for indicating
to CCM 300 that copying is permitted without restriction, (e.g.,
incoming media 499 is not copyrighted or the copyright is not
asserted). In the present embodiment, a level 1 indicator may be
for indicating to CCM 300 that one generation of copies of incoming
media 499 may be made, such that incoming media 499 is an original
copy and that one copy may be made. In the present embodiment, a
level 2 indicator may be for indicating to CCM 300 that incoming
media 499 is copyright protected and/or a copy thereof, and as such
no digital copying is permitted.
[0155] For example, incoming media 499 is received by playback
application 501. Application 501 detects an indicator 605 attached
therewith, in this example, a level 2 bit placed in the bit stream
indicates to CCM 300 that copying is not permitted. As such, when
CCM 300 is configured in system 210 such as that shown in FIG. 5A,
in response to a level 2 indicator bit, CCM 300, while controlling
the media path, then activates switches 311 and 511 to prevent any
recording of incoming media 499.
[0156] However, CCM 300 is configured in system 210 such as that
shown in FIG. 5B, in response to a level 2 indicator bit, CCM 300
while controlling the media path, then activates switches 311 and
312 to prevent any recording of incoming media 499.
[0157] Alternatively, when CCM 300 is configured in system 210 such
as that shown in FIG. 5C, in response to a level 2 indicator bit,
CCM 300, while controlling the media path then activates switches
311, 312, and 571 to prevent any recording of incoming media
499.
[0158] It is noted that CCM 300 can activate or deactivate switches
coupled therewith, as described herein with reference to FIGS.
5A-5D, thereby funneling incoming media 499 through the secure
media path, in this instance the audio path, to prevent
unauthorized copying of incoming media 499. It is further noted
that CCM 300 can detect media recording applications and devices as
described herein, with reference to FIG. 3.
[0159] FIGS. 7A, 7 B, and 7C are a flowchart 700 of steps performed
in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention for
controlling end user interaction of delivered electronic media.
Flowchart 700 includes processes of the present invention which, in
some embodiments, are carried out by processors and electrical
components under the control of computer readable and computer
executable instructions. The computer readable and computer
executable instructions reside, for example, in data storage
features such as computer usable volatile memory 102 and/or
computer usable non-volatile memory 103 of FIG. 1. However, the
computer readable and computer executable instructions may reside
in any type of computer readable medium. Although specific steps
are disclosed in flowchart 700, such steps are exemplary. That is,
the present embodiment is well suited to performing various other
steps or variations of the steps recited in FIGS. 7A, 7 B, and 7C.
Within the present embodiment, it should be appreciated that the
steps of flowchart 700 may be performed by software, by hardware or
by any combination of software and hardware.
[0160] The present embodiment provides a method for restricting
recording of high fidelity media content delivered via one or more
communication networks. The present embodiment delivers the high
fidelity media content to registered clients while preventing
unauthorized clients from directly receiving media content from a
source database. Once the client computer system receives the media
content, it can be stored in hidden directories and/or custom file
systems that may be hidden to prevent subsequent unauthorized
sharing with others. It is noted that various functionalities can
be implemented to protect and monitor the delivered media content.
For example, the physical address of the media content can be
hidden from media content recipients. Alternatively, the directory
address of the media content can be periodically changed.
Additionally, an access key procedure and rate control restrictor
can also be implemented to monitor and restrict suspicious media
content requests. Furthermore, a copyright compliance mechanism,
(e.g., CCM 300), can be installed in the client computer system 210
to provide client side compliance with licensing agreements and/or
copyright restrictions applicable to the media content. By
implementing these and other functionalities, the present
embodiment restricts access to and the distribution of delivered
media content and provides a means for copyrighted media owner
compensation.
[0161] It is noted that flowchart 700 is described in conjunction
with FIGS. 2, 3, 4, and 5A-5D, in order to more fully describe the
operation of the present embodiment. In operation 702 of FIG. 7A, a
user of a computer system, (e.g., 210), causes the computer to
communicatively couple to a web server, (e.g., 250), via one or
more communication networks, (e.g., Internet 201), and proceeds to
attempt to log in. It is understood that the log in process of step
702 can be accomplished in a variety of ways in accordance with the
present invention.
[0162] In operation 704 of FIG. 7A, web server 250 accesses a user
database, (e.g., 450), to determine whether the user and the
computer system 210 logging in are registered with it. If the user
and computer system 210 are registered with web server 250, the
present embodiment proceeds to operation 714. However, if the user
and computer system 210 are not registered with web server 250, web
server 250 can initiate a user and computer system 210 registration
process at operation 706.
[0163] In operation 706, registration of the user and computer
system 210 is initiated. The user and computer system registration
process can involve the user of computer system 210 providing
personal information including, but not limited to, their name,
address, phone number, credit card number, online payment account
number, biometric identification (e.g., fingerprint, retinal scan,
etc.), and the like. Web server 250 can verify the accuracy of the
information provided. Web server 250 can also acquire information
regarding the user's computer system 210 including, but not limited
to, identification of media players disposed and operable on system
210, a unique identifier corresponding to the computer system, etc.
In one embodiment, the unique identifier corresponding to the
computer system can be a MAC address. Additionally, web server 250
can further request that the user of computer system 210 select a
username and password.
[0164] In operation 708 of FIG. 7A, subsequent to the completion of
the registration process, web server 250 generates a unique user
identification (ID) or user key associated with the user of client
computer system 210. The unique user ID, or user key, is then
stored by web server 250 in a manner that is associated with that
registered user. Furthermore, one or more cookies containing that
information specific to that user and the user's computer system
210, is installed in a non-volatile memory device, (e.g., 103
and/or data storage device 108 of computer system 210). It is noted
that the user ID and cookie can be stored in a hidden directory
within one or more non-volatile memory devices within computer
system 210, thereby preventing user access and/or manipulation of
that information. It is further noted that if the unique user ID,
or user key, has been previously generated for the user and
computer 210 that initially logged-in at operation 702, the present
embodiment proceeds to operation 714
[0165] In operation 710, web server 250 verifies that the user ID
and the cookie(s) are properly installed in computer system 210 and
verifies the integrity of the cookie(s) and the user ID, thereby
ensuring no unauthorized alterations to the user ID or the
cookie(s) has occurred. If the user ID is not installed and/or not
valid, web server 250 can re-initiate the registration process at
operation 706. Alternatively, web server 250 can decouple computer
system 210 from the network, thereby requiring a re-log in by the
user of computer 210. If the cookie(s) and user ID are valid, the
present embodiment proceeds to operation 712.
[0166] In operation 712 of FIG. 7A, web server 250 can install a
version of a copyright compliance mechanism, (e.g., 300), onto one
or more non-volatile memory devices of computer system 210.
Installing CCM 300 into user's computer system 210 can facilitate
client side compliance with licensing agreements and copyright
restrictions applicable to specific delivered copyrighted media
content. At operation 712, the components of CCM 300, such as
instructions 301, coder/decoder (codec) 303, agent programs 304,
system hooks 305, skins 306, and custom media device drivers 307
(e.g., custom media device 310 of FIGS. 5B-5D), are installed in
computer system 210, such as that shown in FIGS. 5A-5D. In one
embodiment, a hypertext transfer protocol file delivery system can
be utilized to install CCM 300 into computer system 210. However,
operation 712 is well suited to install CCM 300 on computer system
210 in a wide variety of ways in accordance with the present
embodiment. For example, CCM 300 can be installed as an integrated
component within a media player application, media recorder
application, and/or media player/recorder application.
Alternatively, CCM 300 can be installed as a stand alone mechanism
within client computer system 210. Additionally, CCM 300 can be
installed as a stand alone mechanism and/or as part of a bundled
application from a media storage device, (e.g., a CD, a DVD, an
SD), and/or as part of an installation package. In another
embodiment, CCM 300 can be installed in conjunction with a
presentation of desired media content, (e.g., listening to an audio
file on a music CD, reading a document, viewing a video, etc.). It
is noted that, in one embodiment, CCM 300 may be installed on
client system 210 in a clandestine manner, relative to a user.
[0167] In operation 714, web server 250 can request the previously
established username and password of the user of client computer
system 210. Accordingly, the user of client computer system 210
causes it to transmit to web server 250 the previously established
username and password. Upon the receipt thereof, web server 250 may
access a user database, (e.g., 450), to determine their validity.
If the username and password are invalid, web server 250 refuses
access wherein flowchart 700 may be discontinued (not shown).
Alternatively, if the username and password are valid, the present
embodiment proceeds to operation 716.
[0168] In operation 716 of FIG. 7A, web server 250 can access media
file database 450 to determine if copyright compliance mechanism
300 has been updated to reflect changes made to the DMCA (Digital
Millennium Copyright Act) and/or to the interactive/non-interactive
licensing agreements recognized by the DMCA. It is noted that
alternative licensing agreements can be incorporated into copyright
compliance mechanism 300. Advantageously, by providing a copyright
compliance mechanism that can be readily updated to reflect changes
in copyright restrictions, licensing agreements, and/or changes to
existing media player applications, and/or the development of new
media player applications, copyright compliance mechanism 300 can
provide compliance with current restrictions associated with the
media content.
[0169] Continuing with operation 716, if web server 250 determines
that CCM 300, or components thereof, of computer 210 has not been
updated, web server 250 initiates installation of the newer
components and/or the most current version of CCM 300 into computer
system 210, shown as operation 718. If web server 250 determines
that the current version of CCM 300 installed on system 210 does
not have to be updated, the present embodiment proceeds to
operation 720 of FIG. 7B.
[0170] In operation 720 of FIG. 7B, the user of client computer
system 210 causes it to transmit to web server 250, (e.g., via
Internet 201), a request for a play list of available media files.
It is noted that the play list can contain all or part of the media
content available from a content server, (e.g., 251).
[0171] In operation 722, in response to web server 250 receiving
the play list request, web server 250 transmits to client computer
system 210 a media content play list together with the unique user
ID associated with the logged-in user. The user ID, or user key,
can be attached to the media content play list in a manner
invisible to the user. It is noted that the media content in
content server 251 can be, but is not limited to, high fidelity
music, audio, video, graphics, multimedia, alphanumeric data, and
the like. The media content play list of operation 720 can be
implemented in diverse ways. In one example, web server 250 can
generate a media content play list by combining all the available
media content into a single play list. Alternatively, all of the
media content titles, or different lists of titles, can be loaded
from content server 251 and passed to a CGI (common gateway
interface) program operating on web server 250 where the media
titles, or differing lists of titles, can be concatenated into a
single dimensioned array that can be provided to client computer
system 210. It is understood that the CGI can be written in nearly
any software computing language.
[0172] In operation 724 of FIG. 7B, the user of client computer
system 210 can utilize the received media content play list in
conjunction with a media player application in order to cause
client computer system 210 to transmit a request to web server 250
for delivery of desired media content, and wherein the user ID is
automatically included therewith. The media content play list
provided to client computer system 210 by web server 250 can enable
the user to create one or more customized play lists by the user
selecting desired media content titles. It is noted that a
customized media play list can establish the media content that
will eventually be delivered to client computer system 210 and the
order in which the content will be delivered. Additionally, the
user of client computer system 210 can create one or more
customized play lists and store those play lists in system 210
and/or within web server 250. It is noted that a customized play
list does not actually contain the desired media content titles,
but rather the play list includes one or more identifiers
associated with the desired media content that can include, but is
not limited to, a song, an audio clip, a video clip, a picture, a
multimedia clip, an alphanumeric document, or particular portions
thereof. In another embodiment, the received media content play
list can include a random media content delivery choice that the
user of client computer system 210 can transmit to web server 250,
with the user ID, to request delivery of the media content in a
random manner.
[0173] In operation 726, upon receiving the request for media
content from client computer system 210, web server 250 determines
whether the requesting media application operating on client
computer system 210 is a valid media application. One of the
functions of a valid media application is to be a player of media
content as opposed to an application that downloads media content
in an unauthorized or unregulated manner. If web server 250
determines that the media application operating on system 210 is
not a valid media application, the present embodiment proceeds to
operation 727 which in one embodiment, redirects client computer
210 to a web site where the user of system 210 can download a valid
media player application or to a software application which can
identify client computer system 210, log system 210 out of web
server 250 and/or prevent future logging-in for a defined period of
time, (e.g., 15 minutes, an hour, a day, a week, a month, a year,
or any specified amount of time). If web server 250 determines that
the media application operating on system 210 is a valid media
application, the present embodiment proceeds to operation 728.
[0174] In operation 728 of FIG. 7B, the present embodiment causes
web server 250 to determine whether the user ID (or user key) that
accompanied the media delivery request sent by client computer
system 210 is valid. If web server 250 determines that the user ID
is invalid, the present embodiment proceeds to operation 729 where
client computer system 210 can be logged off web server 250 or
client computer system 210 can be returned to operation 706 (of
FIG. 7A) to re-register and to have another unique user ID
generated by web server 250. It is noted that the order in which
operation 726 and 728 are performed can be altered such that
operation 728 can be performed prior to operation 726. If web
server 250 determines that the user ID is valid, the present
embodiment proceeds to operation 730.
[0175] In operation 730, prior to web server 250 authorizing the
delivery of the redirect and access key for the requested media
file content, shown as operation 732, CCM 300 governs certain media
player applications and/or functions thereof that are operable on
client computer system 210. These governed functions can include,
but is not limited to, pause, stop, progress bar, save, etc. It is
noted that, in one embodiment, CCM 300 can utilize system hooks 305
to accomplish the functionality of operation 730.
[0176] In operation 732 of FIG. 7C, the present embodiment causes
web server 250 to transmit to client computer system 210 a
redirection command along with a time sensitive access key (e.g.,
for that hour, day or for any defined period of time) thereby
enabling client computer 210 to receive the requested media
content. The redirection command can include a time sensitive
address of the media content location within content server 251.
The address is time sensitive because, in one embodiment, the
content server 251 periodically renames some or all of the media
address directories, thereby making previous content source
addresses obsolete. Alternatively, the address of the media content
is changed. In another embodiment, the location of the media
content can be changed along with the addresses. Regardless,
unauthorized users and/or applications are restricted from directly
retrieving and/or copying the media content from content server
251. Therefore, if someone with inappropriate or unlawful
intentions is able to find where the media content is stored,
subsequent attempts will fail, as the previous route no longer
exists, thereby preventing future unauthorized access.
[0177] It is noted that in one embodiment of the present invention,
the addresses (or routes) of content server 251 that are actively
coupled to one or more client computer systems (e.g., 210-230) are
maintained while future addresses, or routes, are being created for
new client devices. It is further noted that as client computer
systems are uncoupled from the media content source of content
server 251, that directory address, or link, can be immediately
changed, thereby preventing unauthorized client system or
application access.
[0178] In another embodiment, the redirection of client computer
system 210 to content server 251 can be implemented by utilizing a
server network where multiple servers are content providers (e.g.,
251), or by routing a requesting client computer system (e.g., 210,
220, or 230) through multiple servers. In yet another embodiment,
the delivery of media content from a central content provider
(e.g., 251) can be routed through one or more intermediate servers
before being received by the requesting client computer system,
(e.g., 210).
[0179] The functionality of operation 732 is additionally well
suited to provide recordation of the Internet Protocol (IP)
addresses of the client computer systems, (e.g., 210), the media
content requested and its transfer size, thereby enabling accurate
monitoring of royalty payments, clock usage and transfers, and
media content popularity.
[0180] In operation 734 of FIG. 7C, upon receiving the redirection
command, the present embodiment causes the media playback
application 501 (FIGS. 5A-5D) operating on client computer system
210 to automatically transmit to content server 251 a new media
delivery request which can include the time sensitive access key
and the address of the desired media content.
[0181] In operation 736 of FIG. 7C, content server 251 determines
whether the time sensitive access key associated with the new media
delivery request is valid. If content server 251 determines that
the time sensitive access key is valid, the present embodiment
proceeds to operation 738 of FIG. 7C. However, if content server
251 determines that the time access key is not valid, the present
embodiment proceeds to operation 737, a client redirect.
[0182] In operation 737, content server redirects client computer
210 to operation 732 where a new access key is generated.
Alternatively, operation 737 causes the present embodiment to
return to operation 704 of FIG. 7A. In yet another embodiment,
operation 737 can cause client computer system 210 to be
disconnected from content server 251.
[0183] In operation 738 of FIG. 7C, content server 251 transmits
the requested high fidelity media content to client computer system
210. It is noted that each media content file delivered to client
computer system 210 can have a header attached thereto, prior to
delivery, as described herein with reference to FIG. 4. It is
further noted that both the media content and the header attached
thereto can be encrypted. In one embodiment, the media content and
the header can be encrypted differently. Alternatively, each media
content file can be encrypted differently. In another embodiment,
groups of media files are analogously encrypted. It is noted that
public domain encryption mechanisms, (e.g., Blowfish), and/or
non-public domain encryption mechanisms can be utilized.
[0184] Still referring to operation 738, content server 251 can
transmit the requested media content in a burst load (in comparison
to a fixed data rate), thereby transferring the content to client
computer system 210 as fast as the network transfer rate allows.
Further, content server 51 can have its download rate adapted to be
equal to the transfer rate of the network to which it is coupled.
In another embodiment, the content server 251 download rate can be
adapted to equal the network transfer rate of the client computer
system 210 to which the media content is being delivered. For
example, if client computer system 210 is coupled to Internet 201
via a Ti connection, then content server 251 transfers the media
content at transmission speeds allowed by the Ti connection line.
As such, once the requested media content is transmitted to client
computer system 210, content server 251 is then able to transmit
requested media content to another client computer system, (e.g.,
220 or 230). Advantageously, this provides an efficient means to
transmit media content, in terms of statistical distribution over
time and does not overload the communication network(s).
[0185] It is noted that delivery of the requested media content by
content server 251 to client computer system 210 can be implemented
in a variety of ways. For example, an HTTP (hypertext transfer
protocol) file transfer protocol can be utilized to transfer the
requested media content as well as copyright compliance mechanism
300 to client 210. In this manner, the copyright compliance
mechanism as well as each media content file/title can be delivered
in its entirety. In another embodiment, content server 251 can
transmit to client computer system 250 a large buffer of media
content, (e.g., audio clips, video clips, and the like).
[0186] In operation 740 of FIG. 7C, upon receiving the requested
high fidelity media content from content server 251, the present
embodiment causes client computer system 210 to store the delivered
media content in a manner that is ready for presentation, (e.g.,
playback). The media content is stored in client computer system
210 in a manner that restricts unauthorized redistribution. For
example, the present embodiment can cause the high fidelity media
content to be stored in a volatile memory device (e.g., 102),
utilizing one or more hidden directories and/or custom file systems
that may be hidden, where it may be cached for a limited period of
time. Alternatively, the present embodiment can cause the high
fidelity media content to be stored in a non-volatile memory
device, (e.g., 103) or data storage device (e.g., 108). It is noted
that the manner in which each of the delivered media content
file(s) is stored, volatile or non-volatile, can be dependent upon
the licensing restrictions and/or copyright agreements applicable
to each media content file. It is further noted that in one
embodiment, when a user of client computer system 210 turns the
computer off or causes client computer system 210 to disconnect
from the network, the media content stored in a volatile memory
device is typically deleted therefrom.
[0187] Still referring to operation 740, in another embodiment, the
present embodiment can cause client computer system 210 to store
the received media content in a non-volatile manner within a media
application operating therein, or within one of its Internet
browser applications (e.g., Netscape Communicator.TM., Microsoft
Internet Explorer.TM., Opera.TM., Mozilla.TM., and the like) so
that delivered media content can be used in a repetitive manner.
Further, the received media content can be stored in a manner
making it difficult for a user to redistribute in an unauthorized
manner, while allowing the user utilization of the received media
content, (e.g., by utilizing one or more hidden directories and/or
custom file systems that may also be hidden). It is noted that by
storing media content with client computer system 210 (when allowed
by applicable licensing agreements and/or copyright restrictions),
content server 251 does not need to redeliver the same media
content to client computer 210 each time its user desires to
experience (e.g., listen to, watch, view, etc.) the media content
file.
[0188] In operation 742 of FIG. 7C, the received media content file
is then fed into a media player application (e.g., 501 of FIGS.
5A-5D), which then runs it through a codec, (e.g., 303 of CCM 300),
in one embodiment. In response, coder/decoder 303 sends an
authorization request to the content server, (e.g., 251), with
attached authorization data, as described herein. In response to
receiving codec's 303 authorization request, server 251 compares
the received authorization data with that stored in server 251, and
subsequently, the present embodiment proceeds to operation 744.
[0189] In operation 744, the content server 251 responds with a
pass or fail authorization. If server 251 responds with a fail,
such that the received authorization data is invalid, the present
embodiment can proceed to operation 745, where server 251 can, in
one embodiment, notify the user of client system 210, (e.g., by
utilization of skin 306), that there was an unsuccessful
authorization of the requested media content file. It is noted that
alternative messages having similar meanings may also be presented
to the user of client computer system 210, thereby informing the
user that the delivery failed. However, if the authorization data
passes, the present embodiment proceeds to operation 746.
[0190] In operation 746, content server 251 transmits certain data
back to the media player application enabling the media player
application to present the contents of the media file via media
playback application 501 of FIGS. 5A-5D. In one embodiment, a
decryption key can be included in the transmitted data to decrypt
the delivered media content file. In another embodiment, an
encryption/decryption key can be included in the transmitted data
to allow access to the contents of the media file.
[0191] In operation 748 of FIG. 7C, subsequent to media file
decryption, the media file may be passed through CCM 300, (e.g., a
codec 303), to a media player application operating on client
computer system 210, (e.g., playback application 501 of FIGS.
5A-5D), which can then access and utilize the delivered high
fidelity media content, enabling its user(s) to experience the
media content, (e.g., listen to it, watch it, view it, or the
like). In one embodiment of the present invention, a specialized or
custom media player may be involved in order to experience the
media content, (e.g., skin 306 of FIG. 3). Skin 306 may be
implemented when CCM 300 cannot modify an industry standard media
player application to comply with copyright restrictions and/or
licensing agreements in accordance with the DMCA. Alternatively, a
specialized or custom media player may not be needed to experience
the media content. Instead, an industry standard media player can
be utilized by client computer system 210 to experience the media
content. Typically, many media player applications are available
and can include, but are not limited to, Windows.TM. Media
Player.TM. for PCs (personal computers), iTunes.TM. Player or
QuickTime.TM. for Apple computers, and)(MMS player for computers
utilizing a Linux operating system. Regardless of the media player
application utilized, while the media file is passed to the media
player application, e.g., in a frame by frame basis or in a buffer
by buffer basis, coder/decoder 303 will repeatedly ensure that CCM
300 rules are being enforced at any particular moment during media
playback, shown as operation 750.
[0192] In operation 750, as the media file content is delivered to
the media player application, (e.g., 501 of FIGS. 5A-5D),
periodically, (e.g., after a specified number of frames, after a
defined period of time, or any desired time or data period),
coder/decoder 303 repeatedly determines whether or not all the
rules are enforced, in accordance with rules as defined by CCM 300.
If the rules are not enforced, (e.g., change due to a user opening
up a recording application (e.g., Total Recorder or alternative
application)) the present method proceeds to operation 751. If the
rules, in accordance with CCM 300, are enforced, the present
embodiment then proceeds to operation 752.
[0193] In operation 751 of FIG. 7C, if the rules according to CCM
300 are not enforced, the presentation of the media content is, in
one embodiment, suspended or halted. In one embodiment, CCM 300 of
FIG. 5A can selectively control switches 311 and 511 to prevent
output of incoming media 499 to a recording application 502 via
media shim driver 309 and DirectX 504 respectively, thus preventing
unauthorized recording of incoming media 499. In another
embodiment, CCM 300 of FIG. 5B can selectively control switches 311
and 312 to prevent output of incoming media 499 to recording
application 502 via media shim driver 309 and custom media device
310, thus preventing unauthorized recording of incoming media 499.
In yet another embodiment, CCM 300 of FIG. 5C can selectively
control switches 311, 312, to not only prevent incoming media 499
from being recorded in an unauthorized manner but can also
selectively control switch 571 to prevent unauthorized output of
incoming media 499 via digital output 575 of media hardware output
device 570. In yet another embodiment, CCM 300 of FIG. 5D can
selectively control switches 311, 312, 571, and 511 to a prevent
kernel streaming mechanism 515, (e.g., DirectKS) which can
establish a connection with media device driver 505 of FIG. 5D,
from capturing incoming media content and returning it to recording
application to create an unauthorized recording of the media
content. In one embodiment, incoming media 499 may not be output
from digital output 575. In another embodiment, incoming media 499
may be output via digital output 575 but in an inaudible manner,
(e.g., silence). In yet another embodiment, incoming media 499 can
be audible but recording functionality can be disabled, such that
the media content cannot be recorded.
[0194] In operation 752, if the rules are enforced in accordance
with CCM 300, codec 303 retrieves a subsequent portion of the media
content that is stored locally in client computer system 210. The
present embodiment proceeds to operation 748 where the newly
retrieved portion of the media file is then presented by the
client's media player application. In this manner, the playback of
the media content is constantly monitored by the present
embodiment. Advantageously, by constant monitoring playback media
files, CCM 300 can detect undesired activities and enforce those
rules defined by CCM 300. It is noted that process 700 can be
exited (not shown) once the media file contents are presented in
their entirety.
[0195] FIG. 8 is a diagram of an exemplary high-speed global media
content delivery system 800, in accordance with an embodiment of
the present invention. In one embodiment, system 800 can be
utilized to globally deliver media content, (e.g., audio media,
video media, graphic media, multimedia, alphanumeric media, etc.),
to one or more client computer systems, e.g., 210, 220, and/or 230,
in conjunction with a manner of delivery similar to that described
herein. In one embodiment, system 800 includes a global delivery
network 802 that can include multiple content servers, (e.g., 804,
806, 808, 810, 812, 814, and 816), that can be located throughout
the world and which may be referred to as points of presence or
media delivery point(s). Each content server 804-816 can store a
portion, a substantial portion, or the entire contents of a media
content library that can be delivered to client computer systems
via one or more networks, (e.g., LAN Internet 201, or a wide area
network (WAN). Accordingly, each content server 804-816 can provide
media content to client computer systems in its respective vicinity
of the world. Alternatively, each content server can provide media
content to a substantial number of client computer systems.
[0196] For example, a media delivery point (MDP) 816, located in
Tokyo, Japan, is able to provide and deliver media content from the
media content library stored in its content database, (e.g., 451),
to client computer systems within the Asiatic regions of the world
while a media delivery point 812, located in New York City, N.Y.,
USA, is able to provide and deliver media content from its stored
media content library to client devices within the Eastern United
States and Canada. It is noted that each city name, (e.g., London,
Tokyo, Hamburg, San Jose, Dallas, Amsterdam, or New York City),
associated with one of the media delivery points 804-816 represents
the location of that particular media delivery point or point of
presence. However, it is further noted that these city names are
exemplary because media delivery points 804-816 can be located
anywhere within the world, and as such are not limited to the
cities shown in global network 802.
[0197] Still referring to FIG. 8, it is further noted that global
system 802 is described in conjunction with FIGS. 2, 3, 4, 5A-D,
and 6, in order to more fully describe the operation of the present
embodiment. Particularly, subsequent to a client computer system,
(e.g., 210 of FIG. 2), interacting with a web server, (e.g., 250 of
FIG. 2), as described herein, web server 250, in one embodiment,
can redirect client computer system 210 to receive the desired
media content from an MDP (e.g., 804-816) based on one or more
differing criteria.
[0198] For example, computer system 210 may be located in
Brattleboro, Vt., and its user causes it to log-in with a web
server 250 which can be located anywhere in the world. It is noted
that operations 702-730 of FIGS. 7A and 7 B can then be performed
as described herein such that the present embodiment proceeds to
operation 732 of FIG. 7C. At operation 732, the present embodiment
can determine which media delivery points, (e.g., 804, 806, 808,
810, 812, 814, or 816), can subsequently provide and deliver the
desired media content to client computer system 210.
[0199] Still referring to FIG. 8, one or more differing criteria
can be utilized to determine which media delivery point (e.g.,
804-816) to select for delivery of the desired media content. For
example, the present embodiment can base its determination upon
which media delivery point is in nearest proximity to client
computer system 210, (e.g., media delivery point 812). This can be
performed by utilizing the stored registration information, (e.g.,
address), provided by the user of client computer system 210.
Alternatively, the present embodiment can base its determination
upon which media delivery point provides media content to the part
of the world in which client computer system is located. However,
if each media of the delivery points (e.g., 804-816) stores
differing media content, the present embodiment can determine which
one can actually provide the desired media content. It is noted
that these are exemplary determination criteria and the embodiments
of the present invention are not limited to such
implementation.
[0200] Subsequent to determination of which media delivery point is
to provide the media content to client computer system 210 at
operation 732, web server 250 transmits to client computer system
210 a redirection command to a media delivery point/content server,
(e.g., 812), along with a time sensitive access key, also referred
to as a session key, (e.g., for that hour, day, or any defined time
frame) thereby enabling client computer system 210 to eventually
receive the requested media content. Within system 800, the
redirection command can include a time sensitive address of the
media content location within media delivery point 812.
Accordingly, the New York City media delivery point 812 can
subsequently provide and deliver the desired media content to
client computer system 210. It is noted that operation 732-742
of
[0201] FIG. 7C can be performed by media delivery point 812 in a
manner similar to content server 251 described herein.
[0202] Advantageously, by utilizing multiple content servers,
(e.g., media delivery point 804-816), to provide high fidelity
media content to client computer systems, (e.g., 210-230), located
throughout the world, communication network systems of the Internet
201 do not become overly congested. Additionally, global network
802 can deliver media content to a larger number of client computer
systems (e.g., 210-230) in a more efficient manner. Furthermore, by
utilizing communication technology having data transfer rates of up
to 320 Kbps (kilobits per second) or higher, embodiments of the
present invention provide for rapid delivery of the media content
in a worldwide implementation.
[0203] Referring still to FIG. 8, it is noted that media delivery
points/content servers 804-816 of global network 802 can be coupled
in a wide variety of ways in accordance with the present
embodiment. For example, media delivery point 804-816 can be
coupled utilizing wired and/or wireless communication technologies.
Further, it is noted that media delivery points 804-816 can be
functionally coupled such that if one of them fails, another media
delivery point can take over and fulfill its functionality.
Additionally, one or more web servers similar to web server 250 can
be coupled to global network 802 utilizing wired and/or wireless
communication technologies.
[0204] Within system 800, content server/media delivery point 804
includes a web infrastructure that, in one embodiment, is a fully
redundant system architecture. It is noted that each of the
MDP/content servers 806-816 of global network 802 can be
implemented to include a web infrastructure in a manner similar to
the implementation shown in MDP 804.
[0205] Specifically, the web infrastructure of media delivery point
804 includes firewalls 818 and 820 which are each coupled to global
network 802. Firewalls 818 and 820 can be coupled to global network
802 in diverse ways, (e.g., utilizing wired and/or wireless
communication technologies). Particularly, firewalls 818 and 820
can each be coupled to global network702 via a 10/100 Ethernet
handoff. However, system 800 is not limited in any fashion to this
specific implementation. It is noted that firewalls 818 and 820 are
implemented to prevent malicious users from accessing any part of
the web infrastructure of media delivery point 804 in an
unauthorized manner. Additionally, firewall 818 can include a
device 836, (e.g., a router or other switching mechanism), coupled
therewith and a DB (database) server 840 coupled to device 836
while firewall 820 includes a device 838, (e.g., a router or other
switching mechanism), coupled therewith and a DB (database) server
842 coupled to device 838. Furthermore, DB server 840 is coupled
with device 838 and DB server 842 is coupled with device 836.
[0206] Still referring to FIG. 8, and within media delivery point
804, firewall 818 is coupled to a director device 822 which is
coupled to internal web application server 826 and 828, and a hub
server 830. Firewall 820 is coupled to a director 824 which is
coupled to internal web application servers 826 and 828, and hub
server 830, Hub server 830 can be implemented in a variety of ways
including, but not limited to, as a Linux hub server. Hub server
830 is coupled to a data storage device 832 capable of storing
media content. Data storage device 832 can be implemented in a
variety of ways, e.g., as a RAID (redundant array of
inexpensive/independent disks) appliance.
[0207] It is noted that media delivery points 804-816 can be
implemented in any manner similar to content server 250 described
herein. Additionally, media delivery points 804-816 of the present
embodiment can each be implemented as one or more physical
computing devices, (e.g., computer system 100 of FIG. 1).
[0208] In another embodiment, CCM 300 can be adapted to be disposed
on a media storage device, (e.g., 999 of FIGS. 10 and 11). Media
storage device 999 can be, but is not limited to, a CD, a DVD, or
other optical or magnetic storage device. By virtue of disposing a
version of CCM 300 on a media storage device 999, embodiments of
the present invention can provide copy protection for audio, video,
multimedia, graphics, information, data, software programs, and
other forms of media that may contain copyrighted material and
which may be disposed on a media storage device. Alternatively, CCM
300 can be adapted to be installed on a computer system, (e.g.,
210), via a media storage device 999 upon which it may be
disposed.
[0209] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a copyright compliance
mechanism/media storage device (CCM/MSD) 900, a version of CCM 300
adapted to be disposed on a media storage device, (e.g., 999 of
FIGS. 10 and 11) in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention. It is noted that CCM 300 in CCM/MSD 900 is analogous to
CCM 300 as described in FIGS. 3, 4, 5A-D, 6 and 7A-C. Further,
CCM/MSD 900 can be readily updated in accordance with global
delivery system 800, as described in FIGS. 7A-C.
[0210] In one embodiment, CCM/MSD 900 is adapted to provide
stand-alone compliance with copyright restrictions and/or licensing
agreements applicable to media files that may be disposed on a
media storage device, (e.g., 999). In another embodiment, CCM/MSD
900 is adapted to be installed on a computer system, (e.g., 210) to
provide compliance with copyright restrictions and/or licensing
agreements applicable to media files as described in FIGS. 3, 4,
5A-D, 6 and 7A-C.
[0211] Referring to FIG. 9, CCM/MSD 900 includes an autorun
protocol component 910 for invoking automatic installation of CCM
300. To deter users from attempts at defeating various features
inherent to CCM 300, (e.g., the autorun feature), CCM 300's
monitoring program, agent program 304, verifies that those features
that are to be operational are operational, and if not, CCM 300
prohibits the user from experiencing the contents of the media
storage device.
[0212] If a user somehow defeats the autorun feature, and the user
attempts to utilize an application to capture an image of the
content, the application will make an image of the content on the
media storage device, which also images the copyright protection
contained thereon. As such when the image is played, CCM 300
recognizes the copy protection is present, and CCM 300 will only
allow the user to experience the content when authorized, once CCM
300 is installed.
[0213] By virtue of the protections as described above provided by
CCM 300, users will be able to experience the content of the media
storage device in the content's original high quality format,
thereby obviating the need to compress the media file used on
client system 210. Advantageously, the user will no longer need to
suffer through poor quality output as a result of severely
compressed media files.
[0214] It is noted that when adapted to be implemented in
conjunction with a secure file format, meaning that the format of
the file is, without proper authorization, non-morphogenic,
embodiments of the present invention also provide effective
compliance with copyright restrictions and/or licensing agreements
with secure files formats. CCM 300 can control the types of file
formats into which the media file can be transformed, (e.g., .wav,
.mp3, etc.).
[0215] In one embodiment, the autorun feature associated with a
media storage device drive, (e.g., 1112 of FIG. 10) of client
system 210 is activated and operational. Alternatively, a notice of
required autorun activation within client system 210 may be
displayed on the media storage device and/or the case in which the
media storage device is stored.
[0216] In another embodiment, if CCM 300 is present or if the user
is coupled to a server, then messages containing instructions on
how to activate the autorun feature of client system 210 may be
presented to the user.
[0217] In one embodiment autorun protocol component 910 can detect
media storage device drives resident on a computer system, (e.g.,
210).
[0218] The following C++ source code is an exemplary implementation
of a portion of autorun protocol component 910 for detecting media
storage device drives residing and operable on client computer
system 210, according to one embodiment of the present
invention.
TABLE-US-00003 if ( (dwRetVal = GetLogicalDrives( )) != (DWORD) 0)
{ /* initialize variables */ dwMask = (DWORD) 1; /* initialize path
to root of current drive */ _tcscpy(szDrive, _T("A:\\")); for
(nIndex = 0, dwMask = (DWORD) 1; dwMask != (DWORD) 0; nIndex++,
dwMask <<= 1) { if ((dwRetVal & dwMask) != 0) { /*
construct path to root of drive */ szDrive[0] = (TCHAR) `A` +
nIndex; if (GetDriveType(szDrive) == DRIVE_CDROM) {
MessageBox((HWND) 0, _T("CD-ROM drive found."), szDrive, MB_OK); }
else { /* clear bit at current position */ dwRetVal &=
(~dwMask); } } } }
[0219] In another embodiment, autorun protocol component 910 can
detect whether a media storage device containing media files has
been inserted into a media storage device drive coupled with client
computer system 210, (e.g., drive 1112 of FIG. 10). In another
embodiment, CCM 300 can include instructions for monitoring media
storage device drive 1112, and upon detection of drive activation,
CCM 300 determines what type of media storage device has been
inserted therein. Subsequently, CCM 300 can detect various triggers
on the media storage device to invoke its protection, (e.g., a
hidden file on newer media storage devices and/or the copy
permission bit on legacy media storage devices), obviating the need
for autorun. Upon detection, CCM 300 can invoke the appropriate
protection for the associated media file.
[0220] The following C++ source code is an exemplary implementation
of a portion of autorun protocol component 910 for detecting a
media storage device inserted in a media storage device drive
residing and operable on client computer system 210, according to
one embodiment of the present invention.
TABLE-US-00004 /* set error mode for operation */ uiErrMode =
SetErrorMode(SEM_FAILCRITICALERRORS); /* initialize path to root of
current drive */ _tcscpy(szDrive, _T("A:\\")); for (nIndex = 0,
dwMask = (DWORD) 1; dwMask != (DWORD) 0; nIndex++, dwMask <<=
1) { if ((dwCDROMMask & dwMask) != 0) { /* construct path to
root of drive */ szDrive[0] = (TCHAR) `A` + nIndex; if (
GetDiskFreeSpace(szDrive, &dwSectors, &dwBytes,
&dwClustersFree, &dwClusters) != 0) { /* add bit for drive
to mask */ dwRetVal |= dwMask; } } } /* restore original error mode
*/ SetErrorMode(uiErrMode);
[0221] Additionally, autorun protocol component 910 can also detect
changes in media, (e.g., insertion of a different media storage
device 999). Further, other media changes can be detected
subsequent to adaptation of the source code including, but not
limited to, detecting a previously accessed media file and/or
detecting a previously inserted media storage device.
[0222] The following C++ source code is an exemplary implementation
of a portion of autorun protocol component 910 for detecting a
change in media, according to one embodiment of the present
invention.
TABLE-US-00005 /* initialize path to root of current drive */
_tcscpy(szDrive, _T("A:\\")); for (nIndex = 0, dwMask = (DWORD) 1;
dwMask != (DWORD) 0; nIndex++, dwMask <<= 1) { /* check for
presence of CD-ROM media in drive */ if ((dwCurrMask & dwMask)
!= 0) { /* check if media previously in drive */ if ((dwPrevMask
& dwMask) == 0) { /* construct path to root of drive */
szDrive[0] = (TCHAR) `A` + nIndex; /* check for presence of marker
on drive */ if (IsMPBMarkerPresent(szDrive) != 0) { /* process
autorun information present on drive */ nRetVal =
ProcessAutorun(szDrive); } } } }
[0223] Still referring to FIG. 9, CCM/MSD 900 also includes a
kernel level filter driver 920 for controlling a data input path of
an operating system coupled with and operable on client computer
system 210.
[0224] CCM/MSD 900 also includes a generalized filter driver 930
for controlling ripping and "burning" applications, (e.g., Nero,
Roxio, Exact Audio Copy, and others), thereby preventing such
activities.
[0225] The following C++ source code is an exemplary implementation
of a portion of generalized filter driver 930 for controlling
ripping and burning applications that may be residing on and
operable within client computer system 210, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
TABLE-US-00006 bool bDisabled; /* flag indicating CD reads disabled
*/ /* initialize variables */ bDisabled = false; if (bProtected ==
true) { if (type == IRP_MJ_DEVICE_CONTROL) { ULONG ulIoControlCode
= stack- >Parameters.DeviceIoControl.IoControlCode; if
(ulIoControlCode == IOCTL_SCSI_PASS_THROUGH) { SCSI_PASS_THROUGH *
pspt = (SCSI_PASS_THROUGH *) Irp->AssociatedIrp.SystemBuffer; if
( (pspt != NULL) && (pspt->Cdb[0] == SCSIOP_READ_CD)) {
pspt->DataTransferLength = 0; pspt->ScsiStatus = 0; bDisabled
= true; } } else if (ulIoControlCode ==
IOCTL_SCSI_PASS_THROUGH_DIRECT) { SCSI_PASS_THROUGH_DIRECT * psptd
= (SCSI_PASS_THROUGH_DIRECT *) Irp->AssociatedIrp.SystemBuffer;
if ( (psptd != NULL) && (psptd->Cdb[0] ==
SCSIOP_READ_CD)) { psptd->DataTransferLength = 0;
psptd->ScsiStatus = 0; bDisabled = true; } } } } if (bDisabled
== true) { /* complete current request */ status =
CompleteRequest(Irp, STATUS_SUCCESS, 0); } else { /* pass request
down without additional processing */ status =
IoAcquireRemoveLock(&pdx->RemoveLock, Irp); if
(!NT_SUCCESS(status)) return CompleteRequest(Irp, status, 0);
IoSkipCurrentIrpStackLocation(Irp); status =
IoCallDriver(pdx->LowerDeviceObject, Irp);
IoReleaseRemoveLock(&pdx->RemoveLock, Irp); }
[0226] Still referring to FIG. 9, CCM/MSD 900 includes a CCM 300,
analogous to CCM 300 of FIG. 3, that is adapted to be installed in
client computer system 210 in one or more ways described
herein.
[0227] In one embodiment, kernel level filter driver
920,generalized filter driver 930 and CCM 300 of CCM/MSD 900 are
automatically installed on client computer system 210, subsequent
to insertion of media storage device 999 into a media storage
device drive, (e.g., 1112 of FIGS. 10 and 11. Autorun protocol
component 910, as described above, detects insertion of media
storage device 999 into an appropriate drive, and initiates
installation of the components, (e.g., CCM 300, driver 920 and
driver 930). In one embodiment, drivers 920 and 930 may be
temporarily installed and may be deleted upon removal of media
storage device 999 from media storage device drive 1112. In yet
another embodiment, drivers 920 and 930 may be installed in hidden
directories and/or files within client computer system 210. In
another embodiment, some components of CCM 300 can remain installed
on client system 210, (e.g. the monitoring program (agent program
304). In still another embodiment, other components, (e.g., the
kernel level filter driver 920), can be dynamically loaded and
unloaded as necessary in accordance with copyright restrictions
and/or licensing agreements applicable to the media file.
[0228] Embodiments of the present invention utilize software,
(e.g., CCM/MSD 900), that is placed on media storage device 999, in
conjunction with controlling software CCM 300 installed on client
computer system 210, and web server 250 and/or content server 251,
wherein each component is communicatively coupled with the other
via the Internet, thereby enabling dynamic updating of CCM 300 in
the manner as described with reference to FIG. 4, and operation 716
and 718 of FIGS. 7A-C.
[0229] In the present embodiment, CCM/MSD 900 provides a stand
alone DRM that is far more sophisticated than existing DRM
solutions. This is because CCM/MSD 900 goes into the data pathway
of the operating system operable on client computer system 210 and
obtains control of the data pathway, (e.g., filter driver 1108 of
FIG. 11), rather than exploiting inefficiencies or errors in the
computer system.
[0230] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a communicative environment
1000 for controlling unauthorized reproduction of protected media
files disposed on a media storage device in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. Included in communicative
environment 1000 is a media storage device drive 1112 coupled with
a client computer system 210 via a data/address bus 110. Client
computer system 210 is coupled with web server 250 and content
server 251 via Internet 201. A media storage device 999, upon which
a CCM/MSD 900 may be disposed, can be inserted in media storage
device drive 1112. As such, autorun protocol component 910 detects
the insertion and automatically invokes installation of CCM
300,kernel level filter driver 920 and generalized filter driver
930 from media storage device 999 into client computer system 210.
Subsequent to installation, CCM 300 initiates a dynamic update with
web server 250 and/or content server 251, via Internet 201. By
installing CCM 300 on client computer system, agent program 304
(FIG. 3) of CCM 300 is able to control the integrity of the
software associated with CCM/MSD 900. Additionally, by conferring
with servers 250 and/or 251 via Internet 201 online, the CCM 300
software version on media storage device 999 and installed on
client computer system 210 can be updated when circumventions occur
and/or kept current from platform to platform.
[0231] Advantageously, the monitoring mechanism of agent program
304 enables constant morphing of the version of CCM 300 disposed on
media storage device 999 by communicating with server 250 and/or
251 and utilizing the dynamic update capabilities of global network
800 to readily update that which has been installed on client
computer system 210, via media storage device 999.
[0232] In one embodiment, the installation is performed clandestine
with respect to the user and is initiated by inserting media
storage device 999 into an appropriate media storage device drive,
(e.g. a magnetic/optical disk drive or alternative device drive
coupled with client system 210). If the user is not registered with
CCM 300, as described herein with reference to FIG. 4 and FIGS.
7A-7C, once installed, CCM 300 initiates an update process with web
server 250 and/or content server 251 to readily include updates
that have been invoked subsequent to release of the media file on
media storage device 999. By virtue of the dynamic update
capabilities of CCM 300, regardless of the version of CCM 300 on
media storage device 999, CCM 300 provides compliance with
copyright restrictions and/or licensing agreements applicable to
the media file on media storage device 999. Advantageously,
enabling dynamic adaptability of CCM 300 provides for continued
interoperability with new and updated operating systems,
advancements in electronic technology, communication technologies
and protocols, and the like, ensuring the effectiveness of CCM 300
into the future.
[0233] In another embodiment, if the user is a registered user with
global delivery system 800, CCM 300 can detect which version is
most current. Accordingly, when the version existing on client
system 210 is more current that the version (for install) on media
storage device 999, CCM 300 can bypass the install process and
present the contents contained on media storage device 999 to the
user for them to experience.
[0234] Further advantageous, this technology is backward compatible
with media storage device drives manufactured subsequent to and
including the year 1982. Additionally, CCM 300 is compatible with
media storage devices having a copy permission bit disposed
thereon. The copy permission bit has been included on all CDs
released since the year 1982.
[0235] In the present embodiment of FIG. 10, the media content is
not encrypted on media storage device 999. In one embodiment, if
the media content is encrypted on computer 210, it can be decrypted
on the computer 210. However, home players and/or stand alone media
playing devices rarely include a decryption mechanism, and to
experience the music on a home machine, the music is conventionally
not encrypted.
[0236] In one embodiment, an additional component of CCM 300 is
that the trigger for agent program 304 may be the copy permission
bit. This means when the copy permission bit is detected by CCM
300, the functions of CCM 300 are initiated. Alternatively, in
another embodiment, when the copy permission bit is detected as not
being set, CCM 300 may remain in an un-invoked or idle state. If
CCM 300 can detect the copy permission bit, CCM 300 can provide the
appropriate compliance with regard to copyright restrictions and/or
licensing agreements applicable to the media files.
[0237] In an alternative embodiment, a trigger control in the table
of contents of media storage device 999 includes instructions for
triggering autorun protocol 910 of CCM/MSD 900 and can utilize the
copy permission bit or alternative implementation to trigger the
technology. In this manner, CCM 300 can control copyrighted works
while public domain material can be experienced and reproduced at a
user's discretion. Because autorun can be problematic for media
storage device manufacturers, embodiments of CCM/MSD 900 can
include alternative autorun programs that perform analogous to
autorun.
[0238] In another embodiment, CCM 300 can invoke its own
proprietary player, (e.g., custom media device 310 as described
with reference to FIG. 3), thus enabling increased control of
copyright restrictions and/or licensing agreements applicable to
the media. By invoking custom media device 310, CCM 300 enables
user experience of the media while providing protection against
unauthorized reproduction of the media disposed on media storage
device 999.
[0239] In an alternative embodiment, the media files and the
CCM/MSD 900 disposed on a media storage device 999 are encrypted.
This implementation is particularly advantageous for demonstration
(demo) versions of media files, beta test versions, and the like
that may be disposed on media storage device 999. It is noted that
the present embodiment is operable in an online environment,
meaning that client computer system 210 is communicatively coupled
with web server 250 and/or content server 251 to enable a user
experience of the content on a demo version of media storage device
999. In this implementation, CCM 300 allows for specific plays for
specific users, which can be controlled via a network, (e.g.,
network 1000 of FIG. 10), and server 250 and/or 251.
[0240] In another embodiment, CCM 300 can be implemented for
demonstration (demo) and/or pre-release protection. In this
embodiment, CCM 300 utilizes sophisticated encryption technology to
encrypt the table of contents and CCM 300 with an associated
decrypted key located on client computer system 210. Encrypting CCM
300 can also deter nefarious attempts to reverse engineer CCM 300.
Decryption can be performed using an associated decryption key.
Alternatively, decryption can be performed by a proprietary or
custom media player application resident on demo media storage
device, (e.g., 999).
[0241] The content of media storage device 999 is encrypted, using
various levels of encryption to provide protection levels
commensurate with copyright holder's desires and required
protection. For example, media storage device 999 is delivered to a
user or critic for the purposes of review, the user inserts media
storage device 999 into the appropriate storage device reader or
connector coupled with the journalist's computer (e.g., 210), and
CCM 300 is installed on client system 200 in a manner clandestine
to the user. Once installed, CCM 300 initiates a communication
session with web server 250/content server 251, where content
server 251 can provide authorization for the user to experience the
media on media storage device 999.
[0242] Accordingly, if the user, to whom demo media storage device
999 had been released, had demo media storage device 999 stolen, or
if the user allowed alternative parties to try to experience the
content of media storage device 999, the unauthorized party would
have to try to crack the encryption keys and the encryption of the
actual content of media storage device 999, consuming non-trivial
amounts of time.
[0243] Thus, CCM 300 is able to control which users receive
authorization to experience the media of media storage device 999,
how many times the user may experience the media, and CCM 300 may
also define a period of time until the media may no longer be
accessible. This may enable copyright holders to release the
content on an authorized media storage device, (e.g., 999), prior
to "pirated" copies flooding the market.
[0244] Accordingly, a demo media storage device 999 may be
configured such that a first user may get a copy, a second user may
get a copy, and if it is known that the second user will share the
demo with a third and a fourth user, then the known users would be
enabled to experience the media. Advantageously, by virtue of
defining which users can access and experience the media, any
unauthorized sharing of the media by one of the authorized users
can be readily detected, and further sharing or experiencing of the
media may be halted. Additionally, because the authorized user
shared the media in an unauthorized manner, in a worse case
scenario, criminal charges could be filed against that user.
[0245] It is noted that placing CCM/MSD 900 on a media storage
device, (e.g., 999), so as to enable installation of CCM 300 on
client system 210 is one manner in which CCM 300 can be installed
on client system 210. An alternative manner in which CCM 300 can be
installed on client computer system 210 is through
"cross-pollination." For example, webcasters broadcast the media
file to the user. The media file has a CCM 300 coupled with the
media file, and upon downloading the media file onto client
computer system 210, embodiments of the present invention enable
the installation of CCM 300 onto client computer system 210. In
another manner, CCM 300 is incorporated into and becomes part of an
operating system operational on client system 210. Alternatively,
laws are passed that mandate the inclusion of CCM 300 on each
client computer system 210.
[0246] FIG. 11 is an exemplary logic/bit path block diagram 1100 of
a client computer system, (e.g., 210), configured with a copyright
compliance mechanism (CCM) 300 for preventing unauthorized
reproduction of copyrighted media according to an embodiment of the
present invention. Copyright compliance mechanism 300 is, in one
embodiment, coupled with and operational on client system 210 in
any manner similar to that described herein with reference to FIGS.
4, 5A-5D, 6, 7A-7C, 9, and 10.
[0247] Diagram 1100 of FIG. 11 includes a media storage device
media extraction/creation application 1102 communicatively coupled
to operating system input/output subsystem 1104 via input line 1121
and output line 1138. Operating system input/output subsystem 1104
is coupled with media storage device class driver 1106via input
line 1123 and output line 1136. Media storage device class driver
1106 is coupled with filter driver 1108via input line 1125 and
output line 1134. Filter driver 1108 is coupled with media storage
device port driver 1110 via input line 1127 and output line 1132.
Filter driver 1108 is shown to include a switch 1111, controlled by
CCM 300 via coupling 1160. Media storage device port driver 1110 is
coupled with media storage device drive 1112 via input line 1129
and output line 1130. Media storage device 999, shown to include
CCM/MSD 900 is receivable by media storage device drive 1112.
Additionally, CCM 300 is coupled with operating system input/output
subsystem 1104 via input line 1150 and wave out line 1151.
[0248] In one embodiment, CCM 300 is coupled to and controls
selectable switch 1111 in filter driver 1108. Depending upon the
copyright restrictions and/or licensing agreements applicable to a
media file disposed on media storage device 999, CCM 300 controls
whether switch 1111 is open (shown), thus preventing the media file
from reaching media extraction/creation application 1102, or closed
(not shown) so as to allow reproduction of the protected media
file. Media extraction/creation application 1102 can be a "ripping"
or "burning" application such as Nero, Roxio, Exact Audio Copy, or
other readily available application.
[0249] Continuing with FIG. 11, media storage device 999 is
received by media storage device drive 1112. CCM 300 determines
whether media storage device 999 or media disposed thereon is
protected by any copyright restrictions and/or licensing
agreements, e.g., via detection of a copy permission bit. CCM 300
communicates with filter driver 1108 to control switch 1111
accordingly. In the present example, reproducing media storage
device 999, and/or the contents thereon, would violate applicable
restrictions and/or agreements and therefore switch 1111 is in an
open position such that the output path, (e.g., output line 1138)
to media extraction/creation application 1102 is effectively
blocked thereby preventing unauthorized reproduction of media
storage device 999.
[0250] It is particularly noted that by virtue of CCM 300
controlling switch 1111, and therefore controlling output line
1138, any incoming copyright protected media disposed on a media
storage device 999 can be prevented from being reproduced in an
unauthorized manner in accordance with applicable copyright
restrictions and/or licensing agreements related to the incoming
media.
[0251] Advantageously, as new secure or proprietary file formats
are developed, CCM 300 can be readily adapted to be functional
therewith. Further, CCM/MSD 900 can prevent users from making
unauthorized reproductions (e.g., recording, copying, ripping,
burning, etc.) of media files. By using kernel level filter drivers
(e.g., 1108) and getting to a low enough level within the operating
system (OS) on client system 210, CCM 300 can detect particular
applications and when they request media storage device drive 1112
to poll the media file for copying, ripping, etc., and disable the
data input path. CCM 300, in this embodiment, deals with the input
pathway.
[0252] In one embodiment, alternative applications that monitor the
state of client computer system 210 can enable the autorun
functionality of client computer system 210 or alternatively,
invoke an automatic mechanism similar to autorun to ensure
invocation of CCM 300 for compliance of copyright restrictions
and/or licensing agreements applicable to media storage device 999
and/or the copyright protected media disposed thereon.
[0253] In one embodiment, CCM 300 can invoke a proprietary media
player from media storage device 999, or activate a proprietary
media player resident and operable on client computer system 210,
or an alternative authorized media player resident on client
computer system 210, in a manner similar to that described herein
with reference to FIG. 3.
[0254] When media storage device 999 is a multisession device,
e.g., a compact disk having a data session and a music session
(audio tracks), and it is inserted into or communicatively coupled
with media storage device drive 1112 such that its content is
accessible, CCM 300 views the contents of the media storage device
999, and in some operating systems the audio tracks will not be
displayed. Instead, the data session is shown, as is an autorun
file, (e.g., autorun protocol component 910), and upon clicking,
invokes a player application. CCM 300 can have a data session and
files to which a user may not have access unless a player
application is invoked.
[0255] In one embodiment, the player application could deposit a
monitoring portion (e.g., agent program 304) on client system 210,
which in one embodiment may reside on client computer system 210
subsequent to removal or decoupling of media storage device 999
from media storage device drive 1112.
[0256] By virtue of content in a multisession media storage device
999, which may not be directly accessible to most player
applications, the player application can be invoked which can then
install the CCM 300 into client system 210, according to one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0257] In one embodiment, a proprietary media player application is
stored on media storage device 999. However, it may not be
automatically invoked. Upon some user intervention, e.g., inserting
media storage device 999 into media storage device drive 1112, the
media player application is loaded onto client system 210 which has
CCM 300 integrated therewith. Thus, CCM 300 is launched regardless
of autorun being activated or de-activated, and mandates the user
to utilize the proprietary media player application, to experience
the content of the media, (e.g., media files), on the media storage
device-999.
[0258] In an alternative embodiment, client computer system 210 has
autorun turned off, wherein it is common for the user to be unable
to play a media file unless a proprietary media player application
is invoked. Activating the proprietary media player application can
initiate an installation of those components of CCM 300 that are
bypassed when autorun is not active.
[0259] Advantageously, by providing a copyright compliance
mechanism, (e.g., 300), which can be easily and readily installed
on a client computer system, (e.g., 210) one of more embodiments of
the present invention can be implemented to control access to, the
delivery of, and the user's experience with media content subject
to copyright restrictions and/or licensing agreements, for example,
as defined by the DMCA. Additionally, by closely associating a
client computer system, (e.g., 210), with the user thereof and the
media content received, embodiments of the present invention can
provide for accurate royalty recording.
[0260] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a usage compliance mechanism
1200, an alternative version of copyright compliance mechanism 300
which is configured to be disposed on a media storage device,
(e.g., 999 of FIGS. 10, 11, 13, 14, and 15) in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. It is noted that CCM 300 of
usage compliance mechanism 1200 is similar to CCM 300 as described
herein with reference to FIGS. 3, 4, 5A-5D, 6, 7A-7C, 8, 9, 10, and
11. Further, usage compliance mechanism 1200 can be readily updated
in accordance with global delivery system 800, in a manner similar
to that described herein with reference to FIGS. 7A-7C.
[0261] In one embodiment, usage compliance mechanism 1200 can be
disposed on a media storage device, (e.g., 999). Content disposed
thereon can, in one embodiment, be demonstration and/or pre-release
content. Examples of demonstration and/or pre-release content can
include, but is not limited to, audio, video, multimedia, graphics,
information, data, software programs, etc. More specifically,
demonstration and/or pre-release content can contain, but is not
limited to, digital movies or music that may be distributed to
persons in the related media field for review, (e.g., a motion
picture academy member for their review of a movie, a record
industry critic to review songs that may be released on a new
compact disc, etc.). Alternatively, demonstration and/or
pre-release content can also contain, but is not limited to, a beta
version of a software program, and the like.
[0262] Alternatively, the content disposed on media storage device
999 can, in another embodiment, be a commercial release of audio
content, video content, software application, etc. Embodiments of
the present invention are well suited to be implemented in a
commercial environment, e.g., public presentation systems such as
those in movie theaters, auditoriums, arenas and the like.
Additionally, embodiments of the present invention are readily
adaptable to be implemented in commercial distribution points,
e.g., audio, video, and/or software retail and/or rental
establishments, as well as for pay-per-view and/or pay-per-play
implementations.
[0263] Further, literary works, documents, graphics such as
pictures, paintings, drawings, and the like can comprise the
content on media storage device 999. It is noted that a nearly
endless variety of demonstration, pre-release, and/or commercially
released content can be disposed on media storage device 999.
[0264] Referring to FIG. 12, usage compliance mechanism (UCM) 1200
includes an autorun protocol 910 for invoking installation of
components of UCM 1200 on a client computer system, (e.g., 210), in
one embodiment of the present invention. Autorun protocol 910 of
FIG. 12 is analogous to autorun protocol 910 of FIG. 9. Also
included in UCM 1200 is a file system filter driver 1220, in one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0265] File system filter driver 1220 can, in one embodiment, be
enabled to hook onto access to a media storage device drive 1112,
(e.g., a CD drive), and intercept data reads associated with
accessing the content on media storage device 999.
[0266] File system filter driver 1220 includes a decrypter 1221 for
providing decryption of encryptions applied to encrypted content,
(e.g., encryptions 2351-P applied to encryptions 1351-N of media
content 2001-M of FIG. 13), in one embodiment of the present
invention. Decrypter 1221 can provide dynamic decryption of
encryptions applied to encrypted media content on a media storage
device 999 as the content, (e.g., 2001-M), is accessed and read by
media storage device drive 1112.
[0267] Still referring to FIG. 12, UCM 1200 also includes a secure
media player 1210. Secure media player 1210 can be, in one
embodiment, similar to custom media device 310, that is an
emulation of the custom media device driver 307, as described
herein with reference to FIGS. 3 and 5B-5D. Alternatively, secure
media player 1210 may be an alternative media player having
controlling properties analogous to custom media device 310. Secure
media player 1210 includes a decrypter 1211 for decrypting
encryption applied to each instance of media disposed on a media
storage device 999, e.g., encryptions 1351 to 1N applied to media
content 2001 to N of FIG. 13, respectively. Secure media player
1210 also includes a watermarker 1212 for watermarking the outgoing
data stream. In one embodiment, watermarker 1212 operates
concurrent with secure media player 1210 and during player 1210
rendering of the content. For example, watermarker 1212 can attach
a serial number, e.g., serial number 1380 of FIG. 13, associated
with each media storage device 999 onto the outgoing data
stream.
[0268] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of contents and components that
may be disposed on a media storage device, (e.g., 999), in
accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Device 999 is
shown with multiple instances of content, (e.g. media content
2001-M), disposed thereon. Media content 2001-M may be, but are not
limited to, movies, audio tracks, software, beta software,
documents, literary works, etc. It is noted that any digital media
can be disposed on media storage device 999 or on a plurality of
media storage devices 999.
[0269] Media storage device 999 of FIG. 13 is analogous to media
storage device 999 of FIGS. 10, 11, 14, and 15. In one embodiment
of the present invention, media storage device 999 is configured
for utilization in conjunction with demonstration and/or
pre-release content.
[0270] Media storage device 999 of FIG. 13 is shown to have
disposed thereon a UCM (usage compliance mechanism) 1200 for
controlling presentation of content, (e.g., media content 2001-M),
disposed on media storage device 999. The UCM 1200 described herein
with reference to FIGS. 13, 14, and 15, is analogous to the UCM
1200 described herein with reference to FIG. 12. It is noted that
autorun protocol 910 of UCM 1200 is, in one embodiment, disposed on
media storage device 999 in a non-encrypted format.
[0271] Also shown on media storage device 999 is a unique
identifier 1380, (e.g., a serial number), for providing a unique
identification of the media storage device, in one embodiment of
the present invention. Unique identifier 1380 may be, but is not
limited to, nearly any distinguishable identifying type of
indicator, (e.g., a randomly generated number, a sequential number,
a combination of numbers and alphanumeric characters, and the
like).
[0272] Advantageously, by disposing unique identifier 1380 on a
media storage device 999, it enables close association of the
content disposed thereon, (e.g., media content 2001-M), with the
anticipated recipient, (e.g., a movie critic, a music critic, an
academy award member, a software beta tester, etc.), of the media
storage device. Therefore, by closely associating a media storage
device, (e.g., 999), with an anticipated recipient, (e.g., the user
of computer system 210), embodiments of the present invention can
prevent unauthorized persons from experiencing content on a media
storage device, as described herein with reference to FIGS. 3, 4,
7A-7C, and 8.
[0273] Further advantageous is that by having unique identifier
1380 for each media storage device 999, embodiments also provide
security at the media storage device mastering level. This means
that an employee working at a mastering facility who dishonestly
and/or unlawfully purloins a copy of the media storage device is
prevented from copying the contents and turning it into bootleg
(unauthorized versions) copies of the media storage device in an
attempt to flood the market. Specifically, by virtue of each media
storage device 999 having unique identifier 1380, and each media
storage device 999 is associated with its intended recipient,
persons not associated with a particular media storage device 999
are unable to experience the content thereon. It is noted that
while the market may still be flooded with bootleg copies, those
that acquire a bootleg copy of a media storage device 999, in
accordance with the present invention, will not be able to
experience the content thereon, thereby possibly causing the public
to be less receptive to the idea of an inexpensive bootleg copy of
something that they cannot use.
[0274] In one embodiment, media storage device 999 may be
distributed to its intended recipients in a variety of ways. For
example, distribution of media storage device 999 to its intended
recipients can include, but is not limited to, postal delivery
methods, e.g., the United States Postal Service, parcel delivery
services such UPS (United Parcel Service) and/or Federal Express,
courier delivery services, and the like. In another embodiment, the
intended recipient of a media storage device 999 may be required to
physically pick up device 999 from a distribution point.
[0275] Media storage device 999 can include multiple instances of
content, e.g., media content 2001-M, in one embodiment of the
present invention. Media content 2001-M can be any type of digital
media content, including, but not limited to, audio, video,
multimedia, graphics, information, data, software programs,
etc.
[0276] Still referring to FIG. 13, in one embodiment of the present
invention, each instance of media 2001-M is subject to a first
encryption, e.g., encryptions 1351-N, respectively. In one
embodiment, a first decryption key for each encryption, e.g.,
encryptions 1351-N, may be stored in a server, (e.g., web server
250 and/or content server 251 of FIGS. 2, 4, 10, and 14). In one
embodiment, secure media player 1210 can utilize decrypter 1211 and
the decryption key stored on web server 250 and/or content server
251 to decrypt encryptions 1351-N during rendering of the content.
It is noted that secure media player 1210 can be communicatively
coupled with web server 250 and/or content server 251 during
rendering and presentation of the content disposed on media storage
device 999.
[0277] Additionally, media content 2001-M having a first encryption
applied thereto, e.g., encryptions 1351-N, can each be subject to a
second encryption, e.g., encryptions 2351-P, respectively, prior to
disposal of media content 2001-N on media storage device 999. In
one embodiment, a second decryption key to decrypt encryptions
2351-P may be stored in a server, (e.g., web server 250 and/or
content server 251 of FIGS. 2, 4, 10, and 14). In one embodiment,
file system filter driver 1220 can utilize decrypter 1221 and the
second decryption key stored on web server 250 and/or content
server 251 to decrypt encryptions 2351-P during the reading of the
content on media storage device 999 by media storage device drive
1112. It is noted that file system filter driver 1220 can be
communicatively coupled with web server 250 and/or content server
251 during rendering and presentation.
[0278] In one embodiment, encryptions 1351-N can be less
computationally intensive encryptions when compared to encryptions
2351-P. Alternatively, in one embodiment, encryptions 1351-N can be
more computationally intensive when compared to than encryptions
2351-P.
[0279] There are many available encryption methods that can be
implemented as encryptions 1351-N and/or encryptions 2351-P.
Examples of encryptions that may be implemented for encryptions
1351-N and/or 2351-P can include, but are not limited to, triple
DES (data encryption standard), AES (advanced encryption standard),
Blowfish, and numerous others. In one embodiment, encryptions
1351-N and/or 2351-P can each be comprised of a series and/or a
mixture of encryptions. A differing encryption, e.g., a plurality
of randomly generated encryptions, can be implemented for each
instance of media on a media storage device, rather than using one
format. In one embodiment, numerous variations of Blowfish are
utilized to provide the desired encryptions.
[0280] It is noted that when the media (e.g., 2001) of media
storage device 999 is encrypted utilizing multiple different
encryptions (e.g., 1351 and 2351), the media is more secure against
those with dishonest and/or unlawful interests. For example, a
person/hacker may attempt to gain access to the content by breaking
the second encryption (e.g., 2351) applied to a media content
(e.g., 2001). However, if they are successful, the remaining
encryption, (e.g., 1351) remains unbroken by virtue of the
differing encryptions. Therefore, the person/hacker would have to
perform the entire encryption breaking process again to access
media content 2001 on media storage device 999. Thus, after
spending non-trivial amounts of time breaking two differing
encryptions applied to an instance of media (e.g., 2001) the
remaining content on media storage device 999 can still be
encrypted, each with it own differing multiple encryptions.
[0281] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a communicative environment
1400 for controlling presentation of media content disposed on a
media storage device. Included in communicative environment 1400 is
a media storage device drive 1112 coupled with a client computer
system 210 via a data/address bus 110. Client computer system 210
is coupled with web server 250 and/or content server 251 via
Internet 201. A media storage device 999, upon which a usage
compliance mechanism 1200 may be disposed, is received by in media
storage device drive 1112. Autorun protocol component 910 detects
the reception and automatically invokes installation of CCM 300,
file system filter driver 1220, and secure media player 1210 from
media storage device 999 into client computer system 210.
Subsequent to installation, UCM 1200 initiates a dynamic update
with web server 250 and/or content server 251, via Internet 201, as
described herein with reference to FIGS. 3, 4, and 7A-7C, thereby
controlling the integrity of the software. Additionally, by
conferring with servers 250 and/or 251 via Internet 201 online, the
UCM 1200 software version on media storage device 999 and installed
on client computer system 210 can be updated when circumventions
occur and kept current from platform to platform.
[0282] Advantageously, the monitoring mechanism of agent program
304 enables constant morphing of the version of CCM 300 disposed on
media storage device 999 by communicating with server 250 and/or
251 and utilizing the dynamic update capabilities of global network
800 to readily update that which has been installed on client
computer system 210, via media storage device 999.
[0283] In one embodiment, the installation is performed clandestine
with respect to the recipient of media storage device 999 and is
initiated by inserting media storage device 999 into an appropriate
media storage device drive, (e.g. a magnetic/optical disk drive or
alternative device drive) coupled with client system 210. Portions
of UCM 1200 determine if the recipient is registered with web
server 250 and/or content server 251. If the recipient is not
registered with servers 250 and/or 251, as described herein with
reference to FIGS. 4, 7A-7C, and 8, portions of UCM 1200 initiates
an installation process as described herein with reference to FIGS.
3, 4, 7A-7C, and 11.
[0284] If computer system 210 is registered with servers 250 and/or
251, UCM 1200 can initiate an update process with web server 250
and/or content server 251 to readily include updates that have been
invoked subsequent to distribution of media storage device 999. By
virtue of the dynamic update capabilities of UCM 300, regardless of
the version of CCM 300 on media storage device 999, UCM 1200
provides compliance with copyright restrictions and/or licensing
agreements applicable to the media content on media storage device
999, (e.g., media content 2001-M). Advantageously, enabling dynamic
adaptability of UCM 1200 provides for continued interoperability
with new and updated operating systems, advancements in electronic
technology, communication technologies and protocols, and the like,
ensuring the effectiveness of UCM 1200 into the future.
[0285] In another embodiment, if the user is a registered user with
global delivery system 800, UCM 1200 can detect which version is
most current. Accordingly, when the version existing on client
system 210 is more current that the version (for install) on media
storage device 999, UCM 1200 can bypass the install process and
present the contents contained on media storage device 999 to the
user for them to experience.
[0286] Further advantageous, this technology is backward compatible
with media storage device drives manufactured subsequent to 1982.
Additionally, UCM 1200 is compatible with media storage devices
having a copy permission bit disposed thereon. The copy permission
bit has been included on all CDs released since 1982.
[0287] In the present embodiment of FIG. 14, each instance of media
is encrypted on media storage device 999, as described herein with
reference to FIG. 13. However, most home players and/or stand alone
media playing devices rarely include a decryption mechanism. As
such, to experience the music on a home machine, the music is
conventionally not encrypted. Accordingly, media storage device
999, in its present embodiment, may not be operable on a home
and/or stand alone media playing device.
[0288] In one embodiment, UCM 1200 can invoke its own proprietary
player, (e.g., secure media player 1210), as described with
reference to custom media device 310 of FIG. 3, thus enabling
increased control of copyright restrictions and/or licensing
agreements applicable to the media content. By invoking a secure
media player 1210, UCM 1200 enables user experience of media
content while providing protection against unauthorized
presentation or reproduction of the media disposed on media storage
device 999.
[0289] Still referring to FIG. 14, in one embodiment, the media
content, (e.g., media content 2001-M), and UCM 1200 disposed on a
media storage device 999 are encrypted, with the exception of
autorun protocol 910, as described above. In one embodiment of the
present invention, UCM 1200 is encrypted differently than media
content 2001-M, thereby preventing the cracking of one encryption
from being utilized on another encryption. This implementation is
particularly advantageous for demonstration (demo) versions of
media files, beta test versions, and the like that may be disposed
on media storage device 999. It is noted that the present
embodiment is operable in an online environment, meaning that
client computer system 210 can be communicatively coupled with web
server 250 and/or content server 251 to enable a user experience of
the content on a demo version of media storage device 999. In this
implementation, UCM 1200 allows for specific plays for specific
users, which can be controlled via a network, (e.g., network 1400),
and server 250 and/or 251.
[0290] In the present embodiment, UCM 1200 can be implemented for
demonstration and/or pre-release protection of content disposed on
a media storage device 999. However, content disposed on media
storage device 999 can also be commercially released content,
(e.g., audio, video, software, and the like). In this embodiment,
sophisticated encryption technology, (e.g., Blowfish), is utilized
to encrypt media content 2001-M on media storage device 999 with an
associated decrypter key located on web server 250 and/or content
server 251. In one embodiment, a plurality of encryptions are
applied to media content 2001-M and a plurality of decrypter keys
are stored on web server 250 and/or content server 251. Decryption
can be performed using an associated decryption key in conjunction
with a secure media player 1210 and file system filter driver 1220
installed on computer system 210 via media storage device 999.
[0291] Still with reference to FIG. 14, the content (e.g., media
content 2001-M) of media storage device 999, is encrypted using
various levels of encryption to provide protection levels
commensurate with copyright holders desires and required
protection. For example, media storage device 999 is delivered to a
user or critic for the purposes of review. The user inserts media
storage device 999 into the appropriate storage device reader or
connector coupled with the recipient's computer, and autorun
protocol 910 initiates UCM 1200 install of CCM 300, file system
filter driver 1220, secure media player 1210 on client system 210
in a manner clandestine to the user. Once installed, UCM 1200
initiates a communication session with web server 250/content
server 251, where content server 251 can provide authorization for
the user to experience the media on media storage device 999.
[0292] Accordingly, if the user, to whom demo media storage device
999 had been released, had demo media storage device 999 stolen, or
if the user allowed alternative parties to try to experience the
content of media storage device 999, the unauthorized party would
have to try to crack the encryption keys and the encryption of the
actual content of media storage device 999, consuming non-trivial
amounts of time.
[0293] Thus, UCM 1200 is able to control which recipients receive
authorization to experience the media content on media storage
device 999, how many times the recipient may experience the media,
and UCM 1200 may also define a period of time beyond which the
media content may no longer be accessible. This may enable
copyright holders to release the media content on an authorized
media storage device, (e.g., 999), prior to pirated copies flooding
the market.
[0294] Still referring to FIG. 14, accordingly, a media storage
device 999 may be configured such that a first user may get a copy,
a second user may get a copy, and if it is known that the second
user will share the demo with a third and a fourth user, then the
known users would be enabled to experience the media.
Advantageously, by virtue of defining which users can access and
experience the media, any unauthorized sharing of the media by one
of the authorized users can be readily detected, and further
sharing or experiencing of the media may be halted. Additionally,
since the authorized user shared the media in an unauthorized
manner, in a worse case scenario, criminal charges could be filed
against that user.
[0295] It is noted that by including placing UCM 1200 on a media
storage device, (e.g., 999), so as to enable installation of CCM
300 on client system 210 is one manner in which CCM 300 can be
installed on client system 210. An alternative manner in which CCM
300 can be installed on client computer system 210 is through
"cross-pollination." For example, webcasters broadcast the media
file to the user. The media file has a CCM 300 coupled with the
media file, and upon downloading the media file onto client
computer system 210, embodiments of the present invention enable
the installation of CCM 300 onto client computer system 210. In
another manner, CCM 300 is incorporated into and becomes part of an
operating system operational on client system 210. Alternatively,
laws are passed that mandate the inclusion of CCM 300 on each
client computer system 210.
[0296] FIG. 15 is an exemplary logic/bit path block diagram 1500 of
a client computer system, (e.g., 210), configured with a usage
compliance mechanism (e.g., 1200) for controlling presentation of
content on a media storage device (e.g., 999), in accordance with
one embodiment of the present invention. It is noted that usage
compliance mechanism 1200 of FIG. 15 is analogous to usage
compliance mechanism 1200 of FIG. 12. Therefore, CCM 300 of usage
compliance mechanism 1200 is analogous to a copyright compliance
mechanism 300 coupled with and installed on a client computer
system, (e.g., 210), as described herein with reference to FIGS. 3,
4, 5A-5D, 6, 7A-7C, 8, 9, 10, 11 14, 15, and 16.
[0297] Diagram 1500 includes a media storage device drive (e.g.,
1112) coupled with a media storage device file system driver 1114
via line 1571. Media storage device drive file system driver 1114
enables an operating system, (e.g., Windows by Microsoft, Apple,
Linux, etc.), on a client computer system, (e.g., 210), to
recognize and control the logical content of media storage device
drive 1112. Coupled to media storage device drive file system
driver 1114 is file system filter driver 1220, via line 1572.
Coupled to file system filter driver 1220 is a secure media player
1210 via line 1573. Coupled with secure media player 1210 are an
operating system media subsystem 503 via line 1577 and a media
hardware output device 1370 via line 1574. UCM 1200 is coupled with
operating system media subsystem 503 via line 1576.
[0298] Media storage device drive 1112 of FIG. 15 is analogous to
media storage device drive 1112 of FIGS. 11 and 14. Media storage
device drive 1112 is configured to receive a media storage device
999. In one embodiment, drive 1112 may be a CD drive and media
storage device 999 would be a CD. In another embodiment, drive 1112
may be a DVD drive and accordingly, media storage device 999 would
be a DVD, and so on. Therefore, media storage device drive 1112
can, when so configured, receive any media storage device 999 upon
which data or content may be disposed.
[0299] File system filter driver 1220 is able to hook onto access
of media storage device drive 1112, (e.g., a CD drive) and
intercept data reads associated with accessing the content, (e.g.,
media content 2001-M), of media storage device 999. File system
filter driver 1220 is also enabled, via decrypter 1221 and a
decrypter key on servers 250 and/or 251, to provide dynamic
decryption of encrypted media content on media storage device 999
as the content is accessed and read by media storage device drive
1112.
[0300] By virtue of file system filter driver 1220 operating at a
file system level instead of operating at a device drive class
level, (e.g., a CD class level), it is able to recognize which
files are being accessed from media storage device 999 for a
particular operation. Advantageously, this obviates the need for a
file system to be implemented within a driver for determining
whether data that is being read needs decrypting.
[0301] Still referring to FIG. 15, secure media player 1210 is
analogous to secure media player 1210 of FIG. 11. Secure media
player 1210 can, in one embodiment, be a custom media device 310
emulated by a custom media device driver 307, as described herein
with reference to FIG. 3. In another embodiment, secure media
player 1210 can be a proprietary player configured for utilization
with demonstration and/or pre-release content disposed, (e.g.,
2001-M), on a media storage device, (e.g., 999). Other authorized
media players may also be used to present media content of a media
storage device 999, provided the other media players can comply
with usage restrictions and/or licensing agreements applicable to
the media content and provided by secure media player 1210.
[0302] Media hardware output device 1370 is an appropriate output
device for the media content of media storage device 999. If media
content 2001-M are audio tracks or songs, then output device 1370
is an audio or sound card for outputting music via speakers.
Alternatively, if media content 2001-M are video tracks, movies,
literary works, software programs, etc., then output device 1370 is
a graphics card for outputting movies, text, and the like via a
display device, (e.g., 105 of FIG. 1).
[0303] Continuing with FIG. 15, media storage device 999 is
received by media storage device drive 1112. Autorun protocol 910
initiates a process to determine the presence of a usage compliance
mechanism 1200 and a secure media player, (e.g., 1210), operable on
computer system 210. If either and/or both usage compliance
mechanism 1200 and secure media player 1210 are not present on
computer system 210, autorun protocol 910 initiates installation of
the components, as described herein with reference to FIGS. 3, 4,
5A-5D, 6, 7A-7C, and 8-16. If UCM 1200 and secure media player 1210
are both present, autorun 910 bypasses the installation thereof.
Media storage device file system driver 1114 accesses the content,
(e.g., 2001-M), on media storage device 999 and reads the data.
[0304] File system filter driver 1220 intercepts the read operation
being performed by driver 1114 and dynamically decrypts a second
encryption, (e.g., 2351-P), applied to media content 2001-M via
decrypter 1221 and a second decryption key stored on and retrieved
from servers 250 and/or 251. In one embodiment, if file system
filter driver 1220 is not communicatively coupled with server 250
and/or 251, thereby enabling retrieval of the second decryption
key, presentation of the content of media storage device 999 is not
permitted.
[0305] Continuing with FIG. 15, subsequent to the second
encryptions 2351-P being decrypted, media content 2001-M, which is
still encrypted with a first encryption, (e.g., 1351-N,
respectively), is output to secure media player 1210 via line 1573.
Secure media player 1210 in conjunction with UCM 1200 communicates
with server 250 and/or 251 and determines if computer system 210
and the user thereof, are authorized to experience media content
2001-M. If system 210 and the user thereof are authorized to
experience media content 2001-M, secure media player 1210 commences
to render the media content for presentation via media hardware
output device 1370.
[0306] Concurrent with rendering media content 2001 secure media
player 1210 can, in one embodiment, communicate with server 250
and/or 251 and retrieve the decryption key associated with each
encryption, (e.g., 1351-N), and with decrypter 1211 of FIG. 12, in
order to dynamically decrypt each instance of media, (e.g.,
2001-M), as the content is being rendered and output via line 1574
to media hardware output device 1370.
[0307] Because rendered content is vulnerable to capture and/or
imaging, and thus becoming subject to ripping, burning, copying,
and the like, secure media player 1210 can watermark, (e.g., via
watermarker 1212), the outgoing data stream that is output to media
hardware output device 1370 via line 1574. In one embodiment,
utilizing watermarker 1212, the outgoing data stream is watermarked
concurrent with the rendering performed by secure media player
1210. Further, secure media player 1210 can attach a unique
identifier, (e.g., 1380), with each rendered media content (e.g.,
2001-M). In one embodiment, the unique identifier 1380 is a serial
number that is attached to each media content, (e.g., 2001-M), as
it is being rendered and output to media hardware output device
1370. In this manner, if the rendered content being output is
somehow captured, imaged, etc., by virtue of the association of
unique identifier 1380, (e.g., serial number), with media storage
device 999 and the media content disposed thereon, (e.g., content
2001-M), and computer system 210 with which the recipient of media
storage device 999 is associated, unauthorized presentation and
reproduction of the media content is prevented.
[0308] FIG. 16 is a flowchart 1600 of computer implemented steps
performed in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention for controlling presentation of media content disposed on
a media storage device. Flowchart 1600 includes processes of the
present invention, which in some embodiments, are carried out by
processors and electrical components under control of computer
readable and computer executable instructions. The computer
readable and computer executable instructions reside, for example,
in data storage features such as computer usable volatile memory
104 and/or computer usable non-volatile memory 103 of FIG. 1.
However, the computer readable and computer executable instructions
may reside in any type of computer readable medium. Although
specific steps are disclosed in flowchart 1600, such steps are
exemplary. That is, the present embodiment is well suited to
performing various other steps or variations of the steps recited
in FIG. 16. Within the present embodiment, it should be appreciated
that the steps of flowchart 1600 may be performed by software, by
firmware, by hardware or by any combination thereof.
[0309] It is noted that flowchart 1600 is described in conjunction
with FIGS. 2, 3, 4, 5A-5D, 6, 7A-7C, and 8-15 to more fully
describe the operation of the present embodiment. At operation
1610, an autorun mechanism, (e.g., autorun protocol 910), disposed
on a media storage device (e.g., 999), is activated in response to
a computer system, (e.g., 210), receiving the media storage device
in an appropriate device drive, (e.g., media storage device drive
1112).
[0310] At operation 1612 of FIG. 16, a monitoring program disposed
on media storage device 999 determines if a usage compliance
mechanism, (e.g., UCM 1200), is installed on the computer system
(e.g., 210) which received media storage device 999. In one
embodiment, agent programs 304 may perform the determination at
operation 1612. However, in another embodiment, combinations of
components of a CCM 300, as described herein with reference to FIG.
3, 4, 7A-7C may be utilized to perform the determination at
operation 1612. If a usage compliance mechanism is not present on
computer system 210 at operation 1612, process 1600 proceeds to
operation 1611. Alternatively, if a usage compliance mechanism is
present on computer system 210 at operation 1612, the process 1600
proceeds to operation 1614.
[0311] At operation 1611, a usage compliance mechanism can be
installed on computer system 210. It is noted that the installation
of the usage compliance mechanism on computer system 210 at
operation 1611 may be performed in a wide variety of ways in
accordance with the present embodiment. For example, the
installation can be implemented at operation 1611 as described
herein with reference to FIGS. 3, 4, 5A-5D, 6, 7A-7C, and 8-15, but
is not limited to such.
[0312] At operation 1614, a monitoring mechanism (e.g., of UCM
1200) disposed on media storage device 999 determines if a secure
media player, (e.g., 1210) is present and operable on computer
system 210. In one embodiment, agent program 304 of CCM 300 of FIG.
3 can perform the determination at operation 1611. If a secure
media player, (e.g., 1210) is not present and operable on computer
system 210 at operation 1614, the present method proceeds to
operation 1611. Alternatively, if a secure media player (e.g.,
1210) is present and operable on computer system 210 at operation
1614, the present method proceeds to operation 1616.
[0313] At operation 1611 of FIG. 16, a secure media player (e.g.,
1210) can be installed on computer system 210. It is noted that the
installation of the secure media player on computer system 210 at
operation 1611 may be performed in diverse ways in accordance with
the present embodiment. For example, the installation can be
implemented at operation 1611 as described herein with reference to
FIGS. 3, 4, 5A-5D, 6, 7A-7C, and 8-15 but is not limited to
such.
[0314] At operation 1613, a determination is made as to whether the
installation (e.g., of a usage compliance mechanism and/or a secure
media player) at operation 1611 was successful. If so, process 1600
proceeds to operation 1616. However, if it was determined at
operation 1613 that the installation at operation 1611 was not
successful, process 1600 proceeds to operation 1616.
[0315] At operation 1616, a determination is made as to whether
computer system 210 and the user thereof are authorized to
experience media content (e.g., 2001-M) of media storage device
999. It is noted that the determination at operation 1616 may be
performed in a wide variety of ways in accordance with the present
embodiment. For example, the usage compliance mechanism (e.g.,
1200) can communicate with servers 250 and/or 251 in networks 200,
400, 1000 and/or 1400 to determine whether computer system 210 and
its user are authorized to experience media content (e.g., 2001-M)
on media storage device 999, as described herein with reference to
FIGS. 3, 4, operations 704-708 of FIG. 7A, and FIGS. 8-15, but is
not limited to such. If computer system 210 and its user are not
authorized to experience the content on media storage device 999 at
operation 1616, process 1600 proceeds to operation 1615.
Alternatively, if computer system 210 and its user are authorized
to experience the content on media storage device 999 at operation
1616, process 1600 proceeds to operation 1618.
[0316] At operation 1618 of FIG. 16, a determination is made (e.g.,
by UCM 1200) as to whether secure media player 1210, usage
compliance mechanism 1200 and computer system 210 are all
communicatively coupled with a network (e.g., 200, 400, 800, 1000,
and/or 1400) in accordance with the present embodiment. If one or
more of the conditions are not met at operation 1618, the present
method proceeds to operation 1615. Alternatively, if secure media
player 1210, usage compliance mechanism 1200 and computer system
210 are all communicatively coupled with the network (e.g., 200,
400, 800, 1000, and/or 1400) at operation 1618, the present method
proceeds to operation 1620.
[0317] At operation 1615, the presentation of content (e.g.,
2001-M) of media storage device 999 to the user of computer system
210 is prevented. Alternatively, computer system 210 and the user
thereof may communicate with the network (e.g., 200, 400, 1000,
and/or 1400) and attempt to establish credentials and/or to
re-establish a communicative coupling with the network that would
allow presentation of the content, as described herein with
reference to FIG. 3, 4, and steps 704-708 of FIG. 7A.
[0318] At operation 1622, the session is ended.
[0319] At operation 1620 of FIG. 16, media content (e.g., 2001-M)
of media storage device 999 can be presented to the user of
computer system 210. It is noted that operation 1620 can be
implemented in a wide variety of ways in accordance with the
present embodiment. For example, the media content (e.g., 2001-M)
on media storage device 999 can be read by media storage device
drive 1112. File system filter driver 1220 can intercepts the read
operation being performed by media storage device file system
driver 1114 and dynamically decrypts a second encryption (e.g.,
2351-P) applied to media content 2001-M via decrypter 1221 and a
second decryption key stored on and retrieved from servers 250
and/or 251. Within an embodiment, if file system filter driver 1220
is not communicatively coupled with server 250 and/or 251, enabling
retrieval of the second decryption key, presentation of the content
on a media storage device 999 is not permitted.
[0320] Continuing with an exemplary implementation of operation
1620, subsequent to a second encryption (e.g., 2351-P) being
decrypted, media content 2001-M, which is still encrypted with a
first encryption, (e.g., 1351-N, respectively), is output to secure
media player 1210. In one embodiment, secure media player 1210, in
conjunction with UCM 1200, communicates with server 250 and/or 251
and commences to render the media content for presentation via a
media hardware output device, (e.g., 1370).
[0321] It is noted that concurrent with rendering media content,
(e.g., 2001-M), secure media player 1210, can, in one embodiment,
communicate with server 250 and/or 251 and retrieve the decryption
key associated with each encryption, (e.g., 1351-N), and with
decrypter 1211 of FIG. 12, dynamically decrypt each instance of
media, (e.g., 2001-M) as the content is being rendered and output
the rendered content to media hardware output device 1370.
[0322] Since rendered content is vulnerable to capture and/or
imaging, and thus becoming subject to ripping, burning, copying,
and the like, secure media player 1210 can watermark, (e.g., via
watermarker 1212), the outgoing data stream that is output to media
hardware output device 1370. In one embodiment, the outgoing data
stream is watermarked concurrent with the rendering performed by
secure media player 1210. Further, secure media player 1210
attaches a unique identifier (e.g., 1380) with each rendered media
content 2001-M. In one embodiment, a unique identifier 1380 (e.g.,
a serial number) is attached to each media content (e.g., 2001-M),
as it is being rendered and output to media hardware output device
1370. In this manner, if the rendered content being output is
somehow captured, imaged, etc., by virtue of the association of
unique identifier 1380 with media storage device 999 and the media
content (e.g., 2001-M) disposed thereon and the computer system 210
with which the recipient of media storage device 999 is associated,
unauthorized presentation and reproduction of the media content is
prevented.
[0323] In another implementation, embodiments of the present
invention can be utilized in a distributed network topology to
control media sharing among computer system within the network.
Some of the distributed network topologies in which embodiments of
the present invention can be utilized are, but is not limited to, a
centralized, a ring, a hierarchical, and a decentralized
distributed topology. A decentralized distributed network topology
is commonly referred to as a peer-to-peer (P2P) network. In a P2P
network, each computer system/node in the network is able to
communicate with any other computer system/node within the network.
A computer system in a P2P network can request data from the
network as well as provide data to the network. Thus, a computer
system can be both a requesting computer system (requesting node)
and a source computer system (source node) within a P2P network.
Additionally, there may be a host server or a plurality of host
servers present in the network that may be utilized alone or in
combination with each other (e.g. as an administrative node,
supernode, etc.) to provide administrative functionalities to the
computer systems therewithin and for providing content to the P2P
network.
[0324] It is known that many implementations of a distributed
network topology, (e.g., a decentralized topology), are not
configured to adequately control and/or monitor the exchanging or
trading of media among computer systems in the P2P network.
Embodiments of the present invention provide a novel and inventive
solution to this problem.
[0325] FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a network environment 1700 for
sharing media content between nodes (e.g., computer systems)
communicatively coupled therewith, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention. Network 1700 includes a client
node 1705, a source node 1715 and an administrative node 1770 which
are communicatively coupled via communication link 1710.
Communication link 1710 may be a wireline, wireless, or combination
of wireline and wireless technologies and communication protocols
that facilitate interaction between computer systems. Additionally,
in the present embodiment, nodes 1705, 1715, and 1770 may each
implemented in a similar manner to that described herein with
reference to FIG. 1. Further, network environment 1700 may be
implemented in a manner similar to that described herein with
reference to network 200 of FIG. 2 and network 800 of FIG. 8.
[0326] In one embodiment, client node 1705 may be implemented in a
manner similar to a client computer system 210 as described herein
with reference to FIGS. 2, 4-8, 10, 11, 14, and 15. Source node
1715 may, in one embodiment, be a client computer system 1705 that
makes available to network 1700 media content that may be stored
therewithin. In another embodiment, source node 1705 may be a media
distribution point (MDP) as described herein with reference to FIG.
8, configured to make available to network 1700 media content that
may be stored therewithin. By virtue of the functionality inherent
to a P2P network, source node 1715 can function as a client node
while client node 1705 can function as a source node.
[0327] Still referring to FIG. 17, administrative node 1770 may, in
one embodiment, be implemented in a manner similar to a web server
250 and/or content server 251, as described herein with reference
to FIGS. 2 and 4. As such, administrative node 1770 may also be
coupled to a database, (e.g., database 451 and/or 451 of FIG. 4).
Accordingly, administrative node 1770 can, in one embodiment, be
configured to provide management functionalities to a network,
(e.g., network 1700 or network 800 of FIG. 8). Types of management
functionalities that can be provided by administrative node 1770
can include, but is not limited to, network management, user
management, encryption and decryption key management, authorization
management, media management, transaction management, player
application management, and cache management. Administrative node
1770 can also be implemented as a source node 1715 and/or as a
media delivery point as described herein with reference to FIG.
8.
[0328] Network management can include, but is not limited to,
determining the route through which an instance of media is
transferred to another computer system in network 1700. For
example, and referring to FIG. 8, an instance of media is located
in a plurality of locations within network 800, e.g., media
delivery points 808 (San Jose), 816 (Tokyo), and 812 (New York
City). Client node 1705 located in Washington D. C. requests that
particular instance of media content. Administrative node 1770 is
able to determine, for this example, that the least amount of
network resources needed to transfer the media content to
requesting client node 1705 would be transferring the instance of
media content from media delivery point 812 (New York City).
[0329] It is anticipated that many instances of a particular
instance of media may be disposed throughout the network, (e.g.,
1700), in which there may be varying degrees of quality among the
instances media content. Further, it is known that differing source
nodes (e.g., 1715) can have varying rates of transfer. For example,
a source node 1715 may be coupled to network 1700 via a digital
subscriber line (DSL), whereas another source node 1715 may be
coupled to network 1700 via a 56 K modem, which is substantially
slower than a DSL connection. Additionally, transfer routes that
would go through a network connection that may be experiencing
downtime or technical difficulties can be rerouted. Advantageously,
administrative node 1770 can incorporate quality of media content,
connection health, and/or delivery speed information into its
determination from which source node 1715 the instance of media is
to be delivered.
[0330] Still referring to FIG. 17, user management, in one
embodiment, can include, but is not limited to, maintaining and
verifying current user information such as user name, password,
billing address, valid credit card number, valid online payment or
alternative electronic payment service, MAC (media access control)
address, etc., as described herein with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4,
and steps 704-710 of FIGS. 7A-7C.
[0331] In one embodiment, encryption and decryption key management
includes, but is not limited to, storing an encryption key
associated with a client computer system for use by the client
computer system to encrypt media content thereon into an encryption
local to that client computer system, managing a plurality of
intermediate encryption and decryption keys for utilization with
media content that is being transmitted to a client computer
system, etc.
[0332] In one embodiment, encryption and decryption key management
includes, but is not limited to, storing an encryption key
associated with a client node (e.g., 1705) for use by the client
node to encrypt media content thereon into an encryption local to
that client node, managing a plurality of intermediate encryption
and decryption keys for utilization with media content that is
being transmitted to a client node, etc.
[0333] In one embodiment, authorization management may include
verifying that a client node 1705 is authorized to be connected to
network 1700, thus being associated with the network.
Alternatively, authorization management may also include, but is
not limited to, authorizing sharing of an instance of media with
network 1700 that does comply with copyright restrictions and/or
licensing agreements applicable to the particular instance of
media. Furthermore, authorization management may include, but is
not limited to, prohibiting sharing of an instance of media with
network 1700 that does not comply with copyright restrictions
and/or licensing agreements applicable to the particular instance
of media.
[0334] Still referring to FIG. 17, media management can include,
but is not limited to, storing a list of available instances of
media content and its associated location within network 1700,
storing information related to each instance of media, (e.g.,
title, artist, genre, length/duration of media content, bit pattern
information related to a particular instance of media for
identification, storing information regarding royalty fees (where
applicable) that may be assessed to an instance of media content
each time it is transmitted within the network), storing
information to enable expiring the media content on a computer
system when the computer system is no longer authorized to access
and/or is no longer associated with network 1700, and the like.
[0335] Additionally, media management can also include utilizing an
Ethernet filter and other mechanisms to obtain information related
to transmitted and/or received instances of media, instances of
media that have recently entered the network, and the like. In one
embodiment, an Ethernet filter may be coupled to a network
interface device (e.g., 104) coupled to the computer system
receiving the instance of media content. It is noted that the
network interface may include, but is not limited to, a modem, a
NIC (network interface card), a wireless receiver, etc. Information
obtained by an Ethernet filter can be used in identifying a
particular instance of media, determining appropriate royalty fees,
etc.
[0336] In one embodiment, transaction management can include
generating a transaction for each successful transfer of media
content from one node (e.g., source 1715) to another node (e.g.,
client 1705) in the network, e.g., from source computer system 1715
to client computer system 1705 in the network (e.g., 1700). In one
embodiment, the receiving client node 1705 acknowledges successful
receipt of the media content and accordingly, administrative node
1770 generates a transaction applicable to the receiving client
node 1705 and which is associated with that particular instance of
media. Since different instances of media content may have
differing usage and/or royalty fees associated therewith,
embodiments of the present invention can provide the mechanisms to
account for each transfer such as generating a transaction for each
transfer, generating a payment from the recipient of the instance
of media, and/or delivering an appropriate remuneration to the
media content copyright holder.
[0337] Advantageously, a royalty transaction can also be applied to
a copyrighted instance of media where no royalty payment was
previously possible. For example, assume that a bootleg copy of an
artist's live performance has been freely available for years. This
bootleg copy may have been made from a portable recorder brought
into a live performance and was used to record the performance. In
this example, a person acquires an analog bootleg copy and converts
it to a digital format or acquires a digital format of the bootleg
copy. The digital copy is then availed to network 1700 for sharing
among the nodes coupled therewith. It is noted that when an
instance of media enters network 1700, it becomes protected as
described herein with reference to FIGS. 3, 4-9, 11, 12, and
15.
[0338] Accordingly, when a client node 1705 successfully receives
the digital copy, a transaction is generated, thus invoking a
royalty payment when no such royalty payment was previously
possible. Advantageously, this can provide a means to distribute
appropriate remunerations to copyright holders and licensees that
would otherwise receive no payment.
[0339] Continuing, when an instance of media can be freely
distributed, a transaction is still generated. This advantageously
provides a record of the numbers of requests for a particular
instance of media, the location from where those requests
originated, and the like, thereby providing data which can be
utilized in marketing studies and implementing marketing
strategies, etc.
[0340] It is particularly noted that in an alternative
implementation, embodiments of the present invention can be readily
configured to provide a mechanism that can generate a sales/use tax
transaction related to transfer of a instance of media. Embodiments
of the present invention can be readily configured to calculate
appropriate sales/use tax amounts relative to the location of the
receiving client computer system. Advantageously, this would enable
municipalities, counties, states, and other governmental agencies
to increase revenue, thus possibly realizing a reduction in a
deficit associated with a government. It is anticipated that
generating sales/use tax transactions could provide from tens to
hundreds of millions of dollars in previously untapped revenue to
those governmental agencies.
[0341] Still referring to FIG. 17, player management, in one
embodiment, can include, but is not limited to, maintaining secure
player application integrity, adding additional player applications
to a list of approved player applications, removing player
applications that do not meet usage restriction requirements
applicable to a media file, modification of a secure player
application to improve its functionality, modification to
counteract nefarious hacking attempts, disabling the secure player
application when the computer system on which it is operable is no
longer authorized to participate in or is associated with network
1700, etc.
[0342] Cache management, in one embodiment, can include, but is not
limited to, maintaining protected media container file integrity,
modification thereof to improve functionality or to counteract
detected nefarious activities, disabling the protected media
container file when the computer system upon which the protected
media container file is disposed is not authorized to access and/or
is no longer associated with network 1700.
[0343] In the present embodiment, client node 1705 and source node
1715 each have an instance of a usage compliance mechanism (UCM)
1800 coupled therewith. In the present embodiment, UCM 1800 of FIG.
17 and as described with detail in FIG. 18 is similar to a
copyright compliance mechanism 300 and/or a usage compliance
mechanism 900 and/or 1200, as described herein with reference to
FIGS. 3, 4, 5A-5D, 6, and/or 9, 11, 12, and 15, respectively.
[0344] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of components in a usage
compliance mechanism (UCM) 1800 that is configured to be installed
and operable on a client node (e.g., 1705) and/or a source node
(e.g., 1715) in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention. UCM 1800 includes a copyright compliance mechanism
(e.g., 300) that can be analogous to a copyright compliance
mechanism 300 as described herein with reference to FIGS. 3, 4,
5A-5D and 6. It is noted that UCM 1800 also includes those features
and components as provided in a UCM 900 and a UCM 1200 as described
herein with reference to FIGS. 9, 11, 12, and 15, respectively.
[0345] UCM 1800 further includes a secure player application 1810,
a client communication application 1820, and a media storage
container creator 1830. Media storage container creator 1830 is
configured to allocate a portion of a memory unit coupled to the
computer system in which UCM 1800 is installed, (e.g., 102 and/or
103) coupled to the computer system (e.g., 100) into which UCM 1800
is installed. Media storage container creator 1830 utilizes the
allocated portion of a memory unit and creates a protected media
container file (e.g., a custom file system) into which received
and/or availed instances of media, (e.g., audio files, video files,
multimedia files, documents, software, and the like) are stored. It
is noted that in one embodiment, media content that is stored in a
protected media container file (not shown) is, in addition to other
encryptions applicable to the instance of media, encrypted local to
the computer system on which the protected media file container is
disposed. In an example, an instance of media is stored on both
client node 1705 and source node 1715 of FIG. 17. Accordingly,
media content is uniquely encrypted local to node 1705 and is
uniquely encrypted local to node 1715. Additionally, in the context
of the present invention, the term availed and/or availing refers
to making available to a network, (e.g., 1700), an instance of
media that may be stored in a protected media container file.
[0346] Still referring to FIG. 18, UCM 1800 also includes, in one
embodiment, a client communication application 1820. Client
communication application is a custom client communication
application configured to provide communication functionality
between the nodes in a decentralized distributed network, (e.g.,
1700). Alternatively, client communication application 1820 is also
well suited to be implemented in nearly any network, including, but
not limited to, network 1700. Client communication application 1820
can be a well known and readily available communication application
and which may be written in a commonly utilized programming
language including, but not limited to, C, C++, Java, Fortran,
etc.
[0347] In one embodiment, client communication application 1820 is
configured to decrypt media content from an encryption local to a
computer system on which application 1820 is operable. Client
communication application 1820 can also be configured to encrypt
media content into an intermediate encryption for transferring the
media content to another computer system communicatively coupled
with a network, (e.g., 1700). Application 1820 is additionally
configured to decrypt media content that is received in an
intermediate encryption from a computer system coupled with network
1700. Client communication application 1820 is further configured
to encrypt the media content into an encryption local to the
computer system on which application 1820 is operable.
[0348] In one embodiment, client communication application 1820 can
utilize an intermediate encryption key provided by an
administrative node (e.g., 1770) to encrypt the media content into
the intermediate encryption for transfer. Application 1820 can also
utilize an intermediate decryption key, also provided by
administrative node 1770, to decrypt media content that is received
in an intermediate encryption from a computer system coupled with
network 1700.
[0349] In one embodiment, client communication application 1820 can
transmit an indicator or an acknowledge signal indicating that the
media content delivered from another computer system in network
1700 was successfully received. In one embodiment, an acknowledge
signal received by administrative node 1770 can generate a
transaction applicable to the computer system receiving the media
content and which is associated with the media content that was
received.
[0350] Still referring to FIG. 18, UCM 1800 further includes a
secure player application 1810 that can be configured to access
contents of a protected media container file, (e.g., an instance of
media) and provide presentation of the media content to the
computer system on which the media content is stored. Secure player
application 1810 can be further configured to utilize its access to
the protected media container file and make available to the
network the contents thereof. In one embodiment, secure player
application 1810 can present the media content to the computer
system on which it is operable while the computer system is
offline, (e.g., not coupled with network 1700 but still associated
therewith).
[0351] Secure player application 1810 can be media type specific,
such as a secure audio player application for audio files, a secure
video player application for video files, a secure alphanumeric
application for text files, a secure software player application
for software files, and so on. It is noted that secure player
application 1810 can be configured to interact with nearly any
media type.
[0352] In one embodiment, secure player application 1810 can be a
custom media device 310 which can be an emulation of a custom media
device driver (e.g., 307) as described herein with reference to
FIGS. 3, 4, and FIGS. 5A-5D. In another embodiment, secure player
application 1810 can be an approved player application as described
herein with reference to FIG. 3.
[0353] FIG. 19 is an exemplary system 1900 for controlling media
sharing among multiple computer systems communicatively coupled in
a network in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention. System 1900 includes client node 1705, a source node
1715, and an administrative node 1770. Nodes 1705, 1715 and 1770
are implemented in and communicatively coupled to a network 1700 in
one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, network
1700 is a decentralized distributed network, (e.g., network 800 of
FIG. 8).
[0354] In an embodiment, source node 1715 and client node 1705 have
logged on to network 1700, as described herein with reference to
FIGS. 4, and steps 702-716 of FIG. 7A. Client node 1705 requests an
instance of media from network 1700, (e.g., 4321), shown as
communication 1910. Network 1700 transfers the request to
administrative node 1770 which determines the location of an
instance of media 4321. Administrative node 1770 responds to client
node 1705 with the location of instance of media 4321, shown as
communication 1920.
[0355] In this example, administrative node 1770 is cognizant that
source node 1715 has an instance of media 4321 disposed therein. In
the present embodiment, instance of media content 4321 is stored in
a protected media container file by memory coupled to source node
1715. Additionally, instance of media 4321 is encrypted local to
source node 1715, shown as dotted line 1716 encompassing media
4321.
[0356] Within FIG. 19, source node 1715 sends a request to
administrative node 1770 for an intermediate encryption key to
encrypt instance of media 4321 for transfer to client node 1705,
shown as communication 1930. Administrative node 1770 transmits an
intermediate encryption key, (e.g. key 1775), to source node 1715.
Upon receipt of intermediate encryption key 1775 by source node
1715, a client communication application 1820 operable on source
node 1715 decrypts media 4321 from its encryption local thereto,
(e.g., encryption 1716), and encrypts media 4321 into an
intermediate encryption, as indicated by dotted line 1775
encompassing media 4321.
[0357] Still referring to FIG. 19, once client communication
application 1820 on source node 1715 encrypts media 4321 into
intermediate encryption 1775, client communication application 1820
transmits media 4321 in intermediate encryption 1775 to client node
1705, shown as communication 1950. Upon client node 1705 receiving
media 4321 in intermediate encryption 1775, client node 1705 sends
a request to administrative node 1770 for an intermediate
decryption key (e.g., key 1776), shown as communication 1960.
Intermediate decryption key 1776 enables a client communication
application 1820 operable on client node 1705 to decrypt media 4321
from its intermediate encryption 1775. It is noted that until
intermediate encryption 1775 is decrypted, secure player 1810
operable on client node 1705 is unable to present media 4321 to
system 1705. It is further noted that if another computer system in
network 1700 has intercepted media 4321 during transfer, the
intermediate encryption 1775 prevents use of media 4321 by the
intercepting computer system.
[0358] Continuing, administrative node 1770 responds to client node
1705 request for an intermediate decryption key and transmits key
1776to client node 1705, shown as communication 1970. Once key 1776
is received by client node 1705, a client communication application
1820 operable on system 1705 decrypts media 4321 out of
intermediate encryption 1775 and encrypts media 4321 into an
encryption local to client computer system, (e.g., encryption 1706
encompassing media 4321).
[0359] When media 4321 has been successfully received by and
encrypted into an encryption local to client node 1705, (e.g.,
media 4321 with encryption 1706), client node 1705 transmits an
acknowledge indicator indicating successful receipt of media 4321,
shown as communication 1980. Accordingly, upon receipt of an
acknowledge indictor, administrative node 1770 generates a
transaction applicable to client node 1705 and which is associated
with media 4321.
[0360] Advantageously, embodiments of the present invention provide
components that enable controlled media sharing in a decentralized
distributed network (a p2p network), e.g., network 800 of FIG. 8
and/or network 1700 of FIG. 17. Further advantageous is that
embodiments of the present invention can also track the sharing,
generate royalties applicable to a receiving computer system and
associated with a particular instance of media. Also advantageous
is that embodiments of the present invention allow for outside
instances of media to enter the network and provide compliance with
copyright restrictions and licensing agreements associated with the
instance of media.
[0361] It is noted that one or more embodiments in accordance with
the present invention described herein can be utilized in
combination with a delivery system similar to delivery system 800
of FIG. 8. For example, any network of one or more of the
embodiments in accordance with the present invention can be
substituted with a delivery system similar to delivery system 800.
Alternatively, a delivery system similar to delivery 800 may be
implemented to include any combination of source nodes (e.g.,
1715), client nodes (e.g., 1705), and/or administrative nodes
(e.g., 1770) that operate in any manner similar to that described
herein, but are not limited to such.
[0362] Assume that an individual desires to purchase or otherwise
lawfully obtain a media file and then give that media file as a
gift to another individual. Embodiments of the present invention
are well suited to detect and control the acquisition of the media
file, control the transfer of the media file from the purchaser to
the gift recipient.
[0363] In an embodiment, a user of computer system (e.g., system
220 of FIG. 2), desires to purchase a media file, (e.g., media
4321) from a network (e.g., 200, 400, 800, and/or 1700) to which
system 220 is communicatively coupled and to give media 4321 to
another user (e.g., the user of computer system 230 of FIG. 2). The
user of system 220 transmits a request to network 1700 for media
4321.Network 1700 receives the request and forwards the request to
an administrative node 1770 operable in network 1700.
Administrative node 1770 determines that media 4321 is available
from node 1715. Administrative node 1770 transmits to system 220
the location of media 4321. System 220 transmits a request to
administrative node for the desired media 4321. Because media 4321
is encrypted local to node 1715, node 1715 requests an intermediate
encryption key from administrative node 1770 to enable encryption
of media 4321 into an intermediate encryption for transfer to
system 220. Once media 4321 is encrypted in an intermediate
encryption, node 1715 transfers media 4321 to system 220.
[0364] Continuing, upon receipt of media 4321 by system 220, system
220 requests an intermediate decryption key from admin node 1770 to
decrypt the intermediate encryption applied to media 4321.
Administrative node 1770 sends system 220 the intermediate
decryption key, enabling system 220 to decrypt media 4321.
Subsequent to decryption of media 4321 from its intermediate
encryption, system 220 then encrypts media 4321 into an encryption
local to system 220 and stores media 4321 in a protected file
system disposed in memory (e.g., 102, 103, and/or 104) of system
220.
[0365] Subsequently, the user of system 220 wants to give media
4321 to the user of system 230. Therefore, system 220 requests from
administrative node 1770 an intermediate key to encrypt media 4321
into a second intermediate encryption for transfer to system 230.
Once the second intermediate encryption key is received by system
220, system 220 decrypts media 4321 from the encryption local to
system 220 and encrypts media 4321 with the second intermediate
encryption key.
[0366] Once media 4321 is encrypted into the second intermediate
encryption key, media 4321 can be transferred to system 230.
Subsequent to system 230 receiving media 4321, system 230 requests
the second intermediate decryption key to decrypt media 4321.
Subsequent to administrative node 1770 transmitting the second
intermediate decryption key, system 230 can decrypt media 4321 from
its second intermediate encryption and encrypt it local to system
230.
[0367] Continuing, subsequent to system 230 locally encrypting
media 4321, system 230 transmits an acknowledge signal to
administrative node 1770 that media 4321 was successfully
transferred. In an embodiment, a controlling application operable
on system 220 would be instructed to deleted media 4321 from the
protected file system contained therein. In another embodiment,
administrative node 1770 can transmit a suppress signal to system
220 that would render media 4321 on system 220 unplayable.
Alternatively, administrative node 1700 can transmit to system 220
a delete signal to system 220 that would remotely delete media
4321.
[0368] It is noted that administrative node 1770 can record the
number of times a media 4321 is given, from whom it is given, and
to whom media 4321 is given. By closely associating media 4321 and
computer systems (e.g., 220 and 230), CCM 300 can effectively
control the giving of media 4321 and can control what the recipient
thereof (system 220) does with media 4321 once it is received by
system 230.
[0369] To control unauthorized or unlawful capturing and/or
recording of video media content, a broadcast flag may be imbedded
in the video signal and which repeatedly re-occurs during delivery
of video media content for indicating that this particular instance
of video media content is a protected video media file, (e.g.,
there is a copyright restriction and/or a licensing agreement
applicable thereto).
[0370] It is noted, however, that many mechanisms (e.g., software,
firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof) are available having
the ability to convert digital video media to an analog format. In
many instances, the conversion removes the broadcast flag from the
digital video media file. Once removed, the analog video media file
can then be converted back to a digital format. The re-digitized
video media file can then be readily manipulated and reproduced in
a nearly endless variety of ways, e.g., on a CD, on a DVD, shared
in a network (e.g., 200, 400, 800, and/or 1700).
[0371] Therefore, to counteract the stripping of the broadcast flag
from the digital video media file, watermarking of the digital
video media file may be implemented to further protect the video
media file. A watermarking technique, such as the Macrovision
watermarking standard, can be implemented to further protect video
media files from re-recording. This watermarking technique modifies
the output signal, allowing viewing of the video media file on a
television set and/or a computer monitor, but corrupts and/or
distorts the video signal when the media file is recorded to
another tape. Corrupting and/or distorting of the video media file
can include, but is not limited to, turning portions into a
monochromatic display, making the signal unstable such that it
renders the copy unusable, and the like.
[0372] Accordingly, video media devices are being developed that
are enabled to detect the presence of a broadcast flag and/or a
watermark in an instance of video media content. It is noted that a
broadcast flag can be, but is not limited to, a waveform aberration
or variation, an indicator bit, a series of indicator bits, a
plurality of differing bits in which each differing bit may
indicate a particular level of protection that is applicable to a
particular instance of video media content, and the like.
[0373] FIG. 20 is an exemplary logic/bit path block diagram 2000 of
a client computer system, (e.g., 210), configured with a copyright
compliance mechanism 300 for suppressing and/or preventing video
capturing operations of secured video media input (e.g., incoming
media 499) and subsequent unauthorized recording and/or
reproduction of the captured secured video media input according to
an embodiment of the present invention. Incoming media 499 of FIG.
20 is analogous to incoming media 499 of FIGS. 5A-5D. Copyright
compliance mechanism 300 is, in one embodiment, coupled with and
operational on client system 210 in the manner described herein
with reference to FIGS. 4, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 6, and 7.
[0374] Diagram 2000 of FIG. 20 includes a media input device 2001
for receiving incoming media 499 via coupling 2011. In one
embodiment, media input device 2001 can be, but is not limited to,
an HDTV video interface, a video input card, a video input/output
device (e.g., 109 of FIG. 1), and the like. Media input device 2001
is coupled to a kernel level streaming driver 2002 via coupling
2012. Kernel level streaming driver 2002 is coupled to streaming
filter driver 2003 via coupling 2013. Streaming filter driver 2003
is coupled to O/S multimedia subsystem 503 via coupling 2014. O/S
multimedia subsystem 503 is coupled to capture application 2005 via
coupling 2015.
[0375] In one embodiment, CCM 300 is coupled to and controls a
selectable switch 2004 in streaming filter driver 2003 via coupling
2020. By interposing streaming filter driver 2003 between kernel
level streaming driver 2002 and O/S multimedia subsystem 503,
requests from capture application 2005 to acquire video media input
(e.g., incoming media 499) are passed through streaming filter
driver 2003 before reaching media input device 2001. In one
embodiment, media input device 2001 is configured to detect,
recognize, and react accordingly to a broadcast flag and/or
watermark imbedded in media 499. In another embodiment, streaming
filter driver 2003 may be configured to detect, recognize, and
react accordingly to a detected broadcast flag imbedded in the
video media content, (e.g., media 499) as well as to detect a
watermark on media 499. In one embodiment, the watermarking is
provided by Macrovision watermarking techniques. Depending upon the
copyright restrictions and/or licensing agreements applicable to an
incoming video media file, (e.g., media 499), CCM 300 controls
whether switch 2004 is open (shown), thus preventing a request from
capture application 2005 to capture incoming media 499 from
reaching kernel level streaming driver 2002, or closed (not shown)
so as to allow a request to capture incoming media 499 to be
forwarded to kernel level streaming driver 2002.
[0376] FIG. 21 is an exemplary logic/bit path block diagram 2100 of
a client computer system, (e.g., 210), configured with a copyright
compliance mechanism 300 for preventing unauthorized capturing of
rendered media (e.g., video input data) and unauthorized recording
of copyrighted media according to an embodiment of the present
invention. Copyright compliance mechanism 300 is, in one
embodiment, coupled with and operational on client system 210 in
the manner described herein with reference to FIGS. 4, 5A, 5B, 5C,
5D, 5E, 6, and 7.
[0377] Diagram 2100 of FIG. 21, in an embodiment, includes a
playback application 501 for receiving incoming media 499. Playback
application 501 is coupled to O/S Multimedia Subsystem 503 via
coupling 2109. O/S Multimedia Subsystem 503 is coupled to custom
media device 2150 via couplings 2111 and 2114. Custom media device
2150 is able to simultaneously output media 499 to a media output
device (e.g., via coupling 2160 enabling presentation of media 499
and if so allowed, output media 499 through subsystem 503 to a
capture application 508for capture by a capture device coupled
thereto. Additionally, O/S Multimedia Subsystem 503 is coupled to
capture application 2005 via coupling 2116.
[0378] In an embodiment, CCM 300 is communicatively coupled with
playback application 501 via coupling 2102 and custom media device
2150 via coupling 2120. Playback application 501 is similar to
playback application 501 described herein with reference to FIGS.
5A-5D. CCM 300 is coupled to and controls selectable switch 2151 in
custom media device 2150. Depending upon copyright restrictions
and/or licensing agreements applicable to an incoming media file,
(e.g., media 499), CCM 300 controls whether switch 2151 is open
(shown), thus preventing the incoming media from reaching a capture
application 508 as well as to a capture device. It is noted that
while switch 2151 is open, thus preventing media 499 from being
captured, presentation of media 499 by a media output device
coupled therewith is allowed.
[0379] In one embodiment, CCM 300 may implement a custom video
capture device to control the capture of video media during
playback. In one embodiment, custom video capture device is a
software emulation. In one embodiment, the emulation would be
performed in a standard video capture driver specific to the custom
video capture device. A secured video playback application would
issue requests to the standard video capture driver for the custom
video capture device, which would perform any necessary capture
suppression before forwarding the requests to the default capture
device.
[0380] For video capture, CCM 300 can include a mechanism to allow
capture suppression to be triggered by other software components
running in the system. For example, suppression may be invoked upon
detection of initiation of a recording operation during the
playback of secured video media. In another example, suppression
may be invoked upon detection of initiation of a sending operation
of the secured video media during the playback thereof.
[0381] By virtue of the monitoring and dynamic updating
capabilities of CCM 300 as described herein with to FIGS. 3, 4,
5A-5D, 7A-7C, and 8, the present embodiments are well suited to
monitor system integrity and to readily provide countermeasures to
new threats to copyrighted media data. These new threats
continually emerge from advancements in technology, using newly
developed techniques, or that may not currently exist in the
system. For example, an update to the operating system may
introduce additional pathways to the system over which media data
can travel.
[0382] Further, the monitoring capabilities of CCM 300 can also
provide for checking a computer system at run time for the presence
of applications that, when running, have the ability to compromise
the security of copyrighted video content. Such applications
include, but are not limited to, products designed for the
recording of audio and video data. In the advent that such an
application is found to be running, CCM 300 dynamic updating can
implement appropriate measures necessary for preventing the copying
of this data. These measures can include, but are not limited to,
alteration of video media output, termination of video media
output, termination of video media input, and the like. In
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, CCM 300 can
periodically request information from a server, (e.g., server 250
and/or 251 of FIG. 2) that will provide information regarding new
applications that can pose a threat to copyrighted media data.
[0383] FIG. 22 is a flowchart 2200 of computer implemented steps
performed in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention for controlling unauthorized use of video media received
in a computer system. Flowchart 2200 includes processes of the
present invention which, in some embodiments, are carried out by
processors and electrical components under control of computer
readable and computer executable instructions. The computer
readable and computer executable instructions reside, for example,
in data storage features such as computer usable volatile memory
104 and/or computer usable non-volatile memory 103 of FIG. 1.
However, the computer readable and computer executable instructions
may reside in any type of computer readable medium. Although
specific steps are disclosed in flowchart 2200, such steps are
exemplary. That is, the present embodiment is well suited to
performing various other steps or variations of the steps recited
in FIG. 22. Within the present embodiment, it should be appreciated
that the steps of flowchart 2200 may be performed by software, by
firmware, by hardware or by any combination thereof.
[0384] It is noted that flowchart 2200 is described in conjunction
with FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5A-5D, 6, 7A-7C, 8-15, and 20-21 to more
fully describe the operation of the present embodiment. In
operation 2210 of FIG. 22, an instance of video media, (e.g., 499
of FIGS. 20 and 21) is received by a video media input device
(e.g., media input device 2001). Media input device 2001 is
communicatively coupled with and operable within a computer system
(e.g., computer system 100 of FIG. 1). Computer system 100 can
communicate with a network, e.g., networks 200, 400, 800, 1400,
1700, and 1900 of FIGS. 2, 4, 8, 14, 17, and 19 respectively. Media
input device 2001 is able to receive a variety of video media types
including, but which is not limited to, a high definition
television (HDTV) transmission, a digital television (DTV)
transmission, a digital satellite video media transmission, a
digital cable television transmission, and a digital video feed,
and other similar video types.
[0385] In process 2212, upon receipt of the video media, a
compliance mechanism (e.g., CCM 300) commences monitoring the data
path associated with the data stream of the video media. CCM 300 is
operable in conjunction with computer system 100 as described
herein with reference to FIGS. 3, 4, 5A-5D, 6, 18, 20, and 21.
[0386] In process 2214, CCM 300 attempts to detect the presence of
an indicator embedded within the data stream of media video 499.
The indicator is for indicating that a usage restriction(s) is/are
applicable to video media 499. The usage restriction(s) can be
indicated by a broadcast flag and/or a watermark, both of which
assert the extent of the usage restriction(s). The usage
restriction(s) can be defined by the owner of the video media
and/or the DMCA and/or other digital media governing bodies.
[0387] In process 2216, if no indicator embedded in the data stream
of video media 499 is detected, then CCM 300 allows video media 499
to reach a capture application (e.g., 2005 of FIGS. 20 and 21), a
playback application (e.g., 501 of FIG. 21), eventually reaching a
media output device for use.
[0388] In process 2218, if an indicator for indicating a usage
restriction is detected by CCM 300, CCM determines whether CCM 300
can control computer system 100 such that video media 499 is used
in a lawful manner.
[0389] In process 2220, if CCM 300 determines that computer system
100 cannot use video media 499 in a lawful manner, CCM 300 can in
one embodiment, terminate the interaction between video media 499
and computer system 100. In another embodiment, CCM 300 could
detrimentally alter the data stream to degrade the data stream of
video media 499 such that a user of computer system 100 would not
be inclined to attempt to cause further interaction between
computer system 100 and video media 499.
[0390] In process 2222, CCM 300 further determines if it can
control video media player (e.g., 501) such that video media 499 is
used by computer system 100 in a lawful manner. In one embodiment,
CCM 300 is communicatively coupled with player 501. CCM 300 can
also determine whether control can be asserted over other video
media usage devices and/or applications present in computer system
100 which can include, but which is not limited to, capturing
software, a capturing device, alternative playback software,
rendering software, a rendering device, copying software, a copying
device, storing software, a storing device, video media
input/output software, a video media input/output device.
[0391] In process 2224, if CCM 300 determines that CCM 300 has
sufficient control over player 501, CCM 300 allows the data stream
of video media 499 to reach player 501 such that the user of
computer system can use video media 499 in a lawful manner.
[0392] In process 2226, if CCM 300 determines that CCM 300 is
unable to adequately control player 501 such that lawful use of
video media 499 is ensured, CCM 300 can block the data path in
which the data stream of video media 499 would travel to reach
player 501. In another embodiment, CCM 300 can block the data path
of the data stream of video media 499 to prevent video media 499
from reaching any other video media software and/or device that can
use video media 499 in an unlawful manner as described herein with
reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 4, 5A-5D, 8, 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 20, and
21.
[0393] In process 2228, upon successful blocking the data stream of
video media 499 from reaching a video media software and/or device
unable to comply with the lawful restrictions and/or licensing
agreements applicable to video media 499, CCM 300 can divert the
data stream of video media 499 to a proprietary video media usage
software and/or device, e.g., streaming filter driver 2003 of FIG.
20 and/or custom media device 2150 of FIG. 21.
[0394] In process 2230, CCM 300 can then activate the proprietary
software and/or devices (e.g., 501 and/or 2250) thereby ensuring
lawful use of video media 499.
[0395] The foregoing disclosure regarding specific embodiments of
the present invention have been presented for purposes of
illustration and description. They are not intended to be
exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms
disclosed, and many modifications and variations are possible in
light of above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described
in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its
practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art
to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various
modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It
is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the
Claims appended hereto and their equivalents.
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