CN1998234A - Portable video storage and playback device - Google Patents

Abstract

A portable video storage and playback device capable of downloading, storing, and playing back video files. In an exemplary embodiment, the file may be played back in a number of different formats. In one embodiment, the present invention includes a disk drive for storing a plurality of video files. The processor is connected to the disk drive and is used to manage files stored on the disk, including the ability to store, display, and retrieve video files. The present invention includes a number of interfaces, such as PAL/NTSC, S-Video, and USB, which allow Video to be downloaded and played back in any of these formats or protocols. This disclosure also includes a video encoder/decoder, which in one aspect is used for MPEG. Advantages of the invention include the ability to store multiple video files in a compact portable device that can be transported and viewed at convenient locations.

Description

Portable video storage and playback device

related application

This application claims priority to US Provisional Application No. 60/586,827, filed July 9, 2004, and US Provisional Application No. 60/506,088, filed September 24, 2003, which are hereby incorporated by reference.

technical field

This invention relates to the general field of portable video storage and playback devices.

Background technique

Traditional video storage devices include video tape and digital video disk. These media are relatively bulky, which is satisfactory for stationary use such as at home. However, with increasing demands for mobility and use in different locations, the user's options are limited to carrying multiple video tapes or DVDs, but these are inconvenient since they must be purchased from a store or mail-ordered .

There is a need for a compact portable video storage and playback device capable of supporting downloading, storing, and playback of multiple video files.

Contents of the invention

This invention relates to the general field of portable video storage and playback devices. The invention can download, store, and replay video files. In one embodiment, files can be played back in a number of different formats.

In one embodiment, the invention includes a disk drive for storing multiple video files. The processor is connected to the disk drive and is used to manage files stored on the disk, including the ability to store, display, and retrieve video files. The present invention includes multiple interfaces thereon, eg, PAL/NTSC, S-Video, and USB, which allow video to be downloaded and played back in any of these formats or protocols. The invention also includes a video encoder/decoder for MPEG in one aspect.

The present invention has the ability to store multiple video files, where files can be associated with rights attributes. In an alternative embodiment, the present invention has a secure authentication key that is used to protect copyrighted works and prevent unauthorized distribution of copyrighted works. This security mechanism also protects user privacy as video file properties can be set to replay the video only when the key is connected to the device.

Advantages of the present invention include the ability to store multiple video files in a compact portable device that can be transported and viewed at a convenient location.

Description of drawings

The present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 is a structural diagram of a video storage and playback device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

2A-B are exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

3A-C illustrate an online video server and user computers according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 shows a kiosk according to an embodiment of the invention;

5A-B are flow diagrams according to embodiments of the invention; and

6A-C illustrate a docking station according to an embodiment of the invention.

Detailed ways

The invention is described with reference to specific devices and embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the description is for illustration and is intended to provide the best mode for practicing the invention.

This invention relates to the general field of portable video storage and playback devices. The present invention is capable of downloading, storing, and replaying video files. In one embodiment, files can be played back in a number of different formats.

A. Device structure

In one embodiment, the present invention includes a disk drive 112 for storing multiple video files. Processor 110 is connected to disk drive 112 and is used to manage files stored on the disk, including the ability to store, display, and retrieve video files. The present invention includes multiple interfaces thereon, e.g., PAL/NTSC 116, S-Video 118 (e.g., digital video), and USB 120-122 (preferably 2.0), which allow video in any of these formats or protocols One is downloaded and replayed. The present invention also includes a video encoder/decoder 114, which in one preferred aspect is an MPEG encoder/decoder. The wireless interface 130, eg using the IEEE 802.11 protocol, is used for interfacing with other WLAN elements and may be used for interfacing with kiosks as described below. A remote control interface 132 is provided for remote control functions. Additionally, an optional docking interface 134 is used to connect to a docking station as described below.

Because the invention includes standard video outputs such as PAL/NTSC and S-Video, the invention can be plugged directly into a television or monitor. The invention also includes a USB port that can communicate with a computer for display on a computer monitor. The USB port is preferably USB 2.0, which is fast enough to support video. It is envisioned that other interfaces can be plugged into legacy, existing, and future other interfaces. An example is Fire-Wire, which may also be included in the present invention.

The present invention has the ability to store multiple video files, where files can be associated with rights attributes. In one embodiment, the present invention has a secure authentication key that is used to protect copyrighted works and prevent unauthorized distribution of copyrighted works. This security mechanism also protects user privacy because the video file properties can be set to replay the video only when the key is connected to the device.

In one aspect of the invention, the security authentication key is a hardware key connected to the device to allow playback of the video file, which performs digital rights management (DRM) functions. For example, this could be a USB key device 124 with a specific key (eg MAC address) as described below, or a SIM card with an encryption key. The video player will only play back the video when the key is connected to the device and recognized by the device. Although a USB key is shown, any key may be used with the present invention, including keys embedded inside the device. In one aspect of the invention, the video is encrypted with key information such that only devices with the key can decode the video information. One notable aspect of using a USB storage device as a key is that USB storage devices may contain disadvantages that generally make them of little value in storing data, and USB keys may be used to store video files. Because video files need not be complete, an imperfect USB device constitutes a satisfactory video data storage device.

Encryption means are useful because video titles can be generated at download time based at least in part on key 124 . Then the video data can be decoded and viewed only with the key. This provides hardware-specific digital rights management features that prevent unauthorized copying and playback of the content. In one aspect of the invention, the header also includes a device identifier associated with the particular device 100 . Where the device 100 includes certain identifying attributes, it qualifies as an authenticated device for communicating with video servers on the network and downloading video content.

Since there are multiple possible subscription types, the device 100 can modify the video title to meet any restrictions on the subscription. For example, if a user is authorized to watch a particular video file three times, the title may be modified each time the video is viewed. Once a video has been viewed the maximum number of times, it will no longer be allowed to be viewed without modification of the subscription attribute.

In addition to the interfaces described above, the present invention includes a flash memory interface that can be used to upload digital photos, video clips, or other files stored on flash memory. Likewise, the present invention may also store information on flash memory for use in other devices.

2A-B are exemplary embodiments of the invention including an integrated video display. FIG. 2A shows a video display 220 constituting the device and control buttons 230 arranged below the display. FIG. 2B shows video display 270 configured to rotate upward and reveal control buttons 280 .

Power can be provided by internal or external battery power, or by a standard power outlet. As noted above, the present invention may be connected to a television, computer monitor, or other display device. In one aspect of the invention, the device may be connected to a video player or DVD player to record video to disk 112 . In another aspect of the invention, video can be downloaded to disk 112 using a computer connected to a USB port.

B. Server and kiosk configuration

Apparatus 100 may be used with an Internet server or kiosk. In the case of an Internet server, devices communicate over the Internet to transmit identification data and download content. Identification data includes, for example, subscriber identity, subscription type, and other such information. Once the device is authenticated and the user's credentials are approved, the requested content is downloaded to the device. In the case of a kiosk, the device communication is similar, but the kiosk may have content stored on a local storage medium that can be quickly delivered to the device. For example, the device may be in close proximity to or even connected to the kiosk to allow high bandwidth communication between the kiosk and the device 100 .

3A-C illustrate an online video server and user computers according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a user opens a web browser (eg, Internet Explorer) and visits a website with a video file for download. FIG. 3A shows an example screen 300 illustrating a technique for downloading a video file. FIG. 3B shows an exemplary web server 330 for storing video files and making the video files available for download over a network (eg, the Internet).

FIG. 3C shows a user computer 350 to which device 100 can be connected to download video files from video server 330 . In one such aspect, the key is connected to the device while being downloaded to authenticate the user and create a code that only allows replay when the key is connected to the device. Users will either purchase each video individually, or can subscribe to license a specific number of videos at any time. For example, if a user subscribes to 5 videos, the server will store the key information associated with that user, and the software will ensure that the key associated with that user only makes that limited number of videos relevant to it, and does not allow additional video Download until the device confirms that the video is removed from the device. In this way, users are limited to their subscriptions.

FIG. 4 shows a kiosk 410 connected to a video server 330 through the Internet, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The kiosk stores and displays locally stored video content on the display 412 for user selection and quick download to the video device. The kiosk 410 periodically downloads video content from the server through the Internet interface 414, so that the content is available to users via high-speed local interfaces 416 and 418, which may be physical sockets or antennas for wireless LAN communication. Since traditional internet connections are usually less than 1Mbit/s, it may take a while for the video to download. However, the local interface 416 can easily be in the range of 10-100 Mbit/s, which enables faster local downloads. Local interface 416 and socket 417 may be Ethernet, USB, Firewire, or other types of interfaces.

A kiosk is useful for a number of reasons including that a user can interact with the kiosk to preview videos while the device downloads and/or modifies its subscription properties. The user may decide on subscription attributes in general, or may decide on subscription attributes for each specific video file. These attributes include: number of plays, rental time, range of rental limits, purchases, etc.

Kiosk stores videos as untitled files. The video data cannot be played without a valid title file, so there is no possibility of an individual hacking into the kiosk and distributing illegal copies of the video content. In fact, titles are generated upon download and are based in part on the device identity and the user's security key, also known as a digital rights management (DRM) key.

The information station is not only used as the distribution layer in the process, but also as the control layer. The kiosk includes a management center and a billing center that communicate with the central server 330 to perform transactions including renewing subscriptions and downloading video content.

c. to operate

5A-B are flow diagrams according to embodiments of the invention. Figure 5A shows a technique for downloading video content, and Figure 5B shows a technique for playing video content.

In FIG. 5A, step 510 begins the download process. Step 512 authenticates the user by password, identification key, or other such technique. In step 514, the user searches for available titles and identifies one for download. In step 516, the user requests a download. In step 518, the present invention checks for download restrictions on the subscriber. If the subscriber is within the limit, then in step 520 the download is approved. In one aspect, shown in step 522, the video content is encrypted using the subscriber key information prior to downloading. If the download is not approved in step 520, then in step 524 the subscriber may choose to pay for the new download. If the subscriber has a limited number of videos that they can bill for, the subscriber may be able to delete downloaded files and then be approved to download new files. If the subscriber chooses not to pay or takes other such action, then in step 526 the process ends.

In FIG. 5B, step 560 begins the playback process. Step 562 checks the user's key to ensure it authenticates the video. If the key is correct, step 564 decodes and plays the video. If the key is incorrect, step 566 refuses to decode and play the video. In one aspect of the invention, the video is encoded using information associated with a key, and the key must be connected to the device to allow playback.

D.Bill management

Billing for video downloads and/or subscriptions can be managed with other services in a unified manner. For example, an Internet Service Provider (ISP) may wish to provide a video service and bill for the service along with Internet access charges in accordance with the present invention. ISPs employ the present invention to track subscribers and monitor their downloads and subscriptions appropriately.

E. Docking station

Figure 6A shows a docking station 520 according to an embodiment of the invention. The docking station includes a cradle (base) 522 , a device interface 524 , and a video output 526 . For example, a docking station provides a stand for device 100 to interface with an external display such as a television or computer monitor. The docking station stand also provides power to the device 100 to either power the device or recharge batteries in the device. FIG. 6B also shows an interface panel for the docking station including a power input 528 .

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 6B , the docking station includes an Internet interface 535 . This additional interface allows the device 100 to connect with a video server and download video data to the device 100 .

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 6C , the docking station includes a video input interface 547 . This interface allows the device 100 to record video directly from the video input and provides recording modes as described below.

The docking station can be configured to operate in three exemplary modes, as well as other foreseeable modes.

1. Standard play mode

The standard play mode involves playback of video data stored on the video storage and playback device 100 . Control mechanisms for playing content are on the device 100, or directed via a remote control in communication with the device 100 or a docking station.

2. Push mode

By using the Internet interface 535, the device is able to download video content during off-peak hours, such as at night. The video content can be used by the user to remove the device from the docking station and either view the content on the device 100 or with the kiosk.

3. Recording mode

Another mode is a recording mode, which stores video while the user is watching a program, enabling the user to take a break or review a specific portion of the video while continuing to record the incoming video stream.

F. Other DRM features

1. Definition

Digital Rights Management (DRM) is a system for protecting the copyright of data transmitted via the Internet or other digital media by allowing the safe distribution of the data and/or prohibiting the illegal distribution of the data. Typically, DRM systems protect intellectual property by either encrypting data so that it can only be accessed by authorized users or digitally watermarking the content or similar methods so that the content cannot be distributed indiscriminately.

For example, a Subscriber Information Module (SIM) is a small, postage stamp-sized "smart card" used in GSM-style cellular phones. A SIM card includes a microchip that stores data used to identify the caller to the network service provider. In the present invention, the SIM is used to identify network users of the invented network and optionally to lock and encrypt content using DRM.

A SIM stick is a SIM that can be plugged into a PC or other device through a standard interface such as USB, serial port, or other interface.

Removable storage devices (RMDs), sometimes called keychain drives or USB drives, flash drives, or disk-on-keys, are plug-and-play portable storage devices that use flash memory or mini-disk drives and are sufficiently lightweight Can be attached to a key chain or carried in a pocket. RMDs can be used in place of floppy disks, Zip drive disks, or CDs. When a user inserts an RMD into a USB port on a computer, the operating system recognizes the drive as a removable drive. Unlike most removable drives, a keychain drive does not require a reboot after it is attached, does not require batteries or external power, and is not platform dependent. Several keychain drive manufacturers offer additional features such as password protection, as well as downloadable drivers that allow the keychain drive to be compatible with older systems that do not have USB ports.

2. How DRM works

DRM protects content by encrypting the content and including headers of files that describe how the content is to be used. For example, the methods used may include: (a) restrictions on the number of times the content can be viewed or played, (b) restrictions on the amount of time the content is valid, e.g., at a certain point when the content can no longer be viewed or played back, Or (c) unlimited play by the user, eg, content purchase or perpetual license approach.

DRM-protected content is locked using a key. This key typically involves a username and password or username and device ID. When locked by a username and password, DRM typically requires a connection to the Internet so that the username and password can be authenticated and the method used can be authenticated. This is seen as DRM protected online mode. The content viewer application needs to know where to go on the internet for authentication.

Optionally, DRM can be used in offline or embedded device mode. In this mode, the device provides its own methods of authenticating users and opening content, and does not require an Internet connection. In this mode, the content is locked to the device and can only be used on the device.

In offline mode, information related to the file, including information of when the file was viewed, is stored in a protected area on the device. It is the responsibility of the device manufacturer to ensure that the protected area cannot be accessed by the user of the device. This information is used by the viewer application to verify the DRM method used for the file before opening it.

3. Identification by SIM stick

The SIM stick serves two purposes in the network of the present invention. It can be used to identify the user of the network for billing purposes, and optionally it can be used to identify the device to which the DRM protected content is connected.

For example, standard GSM A3 authentication techniques are used to prevent fraud when used to identify users. The A3 algorithm is used by GSM networks to authenticate GSM mobile phones. The GSM A3 algorithm is a one-way function implemented in the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM). The network of the invention contains an Authentication Center (AuC) for this purpose.

However, the SIM can also be used to provide a Device ID for DRM protected content in offline mode. In this case, the SIM device ID is used to lock the content and information about the DRM protected files is stored on the SIM. Content can be moved between devices even in offline mode when used by a specific viewing application that knows to use the SIM as a locked device and knows how to handle DRM. In this instance, one prerequisite is that all devices use a specific viewing application that can be downloaded from the Internet.

4. Distribution via combined SIM and removable storage (key)

When combining a SIM with a removable storage device such as a USB flash disk in a key, the user has the above capabilities of a SIM stick and yet another removable device to which DRM protected content can be downloaded.

Using the kiosk network of the present invention, the user plugs the combined SIM and removable storage device into, for example, a standard USB 2 port. The network uses the SIM to authenticate the user's identity, lock the content to the SIM device ID, and download the locked content to the key POD's memory. Users now have a convenient method of transferring DRM protected content in offline mode and playing it on multiple devices.

5. Assignment via removable storage device

Even in the absence of a SIM in a removable storage device, the network of the present invention can download DRM-protected content to the storage device. In this case, the DRM header information is missing in the content file.

When a network user of the present invention decides to play content, the user must connect to the Internet and contact a video server to obtain title information. Before that the user does not need to decide how he wants to use the content. Based on how the user wants to use the content, the network of the present invention will bill the user appropriately and build the DRM title. For example, a user may want to watch content three times, or may decide that the content is available for five days. Optionally, the user can choose another allowed DRM method. Once the title information is downloaded to the user, the content can be viewed in offline mode. The ability to defer decisions about how to purchase and/or use content is unique to offline mode.

Additionally, files can be copied and sent to others. However, other users are not authorized to view the content until they contact the video server and pay for the right to view the content in the agreed upon manner.

G. Conclusion

Advantages of the present invention include the ability to store multiple video files in a compact portable device that can be transported or viewed at a convenient location.

Having described exemplary embodiments and the best mode, modifications and changes may be made to the disclosed embodiments within the subject and spirit of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims (15)

1. video storage and replay device comprise:

Storage medium is used to store a plurality of video files;

A plurality of interface ports are used for transmitting video data;

Video encoder/decoder is used for video data encoding and decoding; And

Processor is connected to described storage medium, described a plurality of interface ports and described video encoder/decoder, is used to manage described video file.

2. video storage according to claim 1 and replay device, wherein:

Described processor is used for by storage, demonstration and retrieves described video file and manage described video file.

3. video storage according to claim 2 and replay device further comprise:

Key is used for being connected to of described interface port, and wherein, described key comprises that being used for server carries out the video file coding and be used for the information that described device carries out the video file decoding.

4. video storage according to claim 1 and replay device further comprise:

Information station is used for from server foradownloaded video file, and provides visit to described video file to described device.

5. video storage according to claim 2 and replay device, wherein:

Described video server is used to use the information relevant with described key to discern the subscriber.

6. video storage according to claim 1 and replay device further comprise:

The bill server is used for the video file of being downloaded by described device is kept accounts.

7. a video information station is used for using with video storage and replay device, and described video information station comprises:

Storage medium is used to store a plurality of video files;

Interface port is used for communicating by letter with central video server and being used for from described central video server foradownloaded video data;

At least one interface port is used for carrying out video data communication with described video storage and replay device;

Processor is connected to described storage medium and described interface port, and is used for optionally controlling described storage medium and interface port; And

Video encoder/decoder is used for coming coding video frequency data based on the authorization code relevant with replay device with described video storage at least in part.

8. video information according to claim 7 station, wherein:

Described processor is used for by storage, demonstration and retrieves described video file and manage described video file; And

Described processor be used for by with transfer of data to described central server, and come optionally to give video storage and replay device based on subscription data at least in part with the assigns authorized of video data, differentiate described video storage and replay device.

9. video information according to claim 8 station, wherein:

Described video server is used to use the information relevant with described key to discern described subscriber.

10. video information according to claim 7 station further comprises:

The bill server is used for the video file of being downloaded by described device is kept accounts.

11. video information according to claim 8 station further comprises:

The bill server is used for the video file of being downloaded by described device is kept accounts.

12. a Docking station is used for using with video storage and replay device, described Docking station comprises:

A plurality of interface ports are used for carrying out video data communication with described video storage and replay device and display; And

Authenticate device is used for allowing the described video data of decoding.

13. Docking station according to claim 12, wherein:

Described processor is used for by storage, demonstration and retrieves described video file and manage described video file.

14. Docking station according to claim 12 further comprises:

Key is used for being connected to of described interface port, and wherein, described key comprises that being used for server carries out the video file coding and be used for the information that described device carries out the video file decoding.

15. Docking station according to claim 13, wherein:

Described video server is used to use the information relevant with described key to discern described subscriber.

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