HK1095898A - Hard disk drive system for distributing protected content - Google Patents

Description

Hard disk drive system for distributing protected content

Technical Field

The present invention relates to networks, and more particularly, to a network system that allows secure distribution of protected content.

Background

Consumers often purchase video content on Digital Versatile Disks (DVDs). A DVD player may be used to output the video content to a Television (TV) or other video monitor. Some DVD players may include a disc transport (carousel) for allowing selection and playing of one of a plurality of DVDs. In some cases, when a DVD player is located and connected to a first TV in one room of a consumer's home, the consumer may want to view the contents of the DVD on a second TV in another room. As a result, the DVD player needs to be disconnected from the first TV, moved to a room with the second TV, and then reconnected to the second TV. Alternatively, if the consumer has a second DVD player, the consumer moves the DVD to that player.

One possible solution to this problem involves copying the DVD content onto another DVD. DVD players generally include only one DVD player, which makes it difficult to reproduce DVDs. To copy a DVD, a user must copy the DVD content to a hard drive system. Typically, copy protection schemes such as Digital Rights Management (DRM) prevent such copying, although some copying may be permitted by copyright laws. This is due in part to the data being decrypted and/or decoded by the DVD player and thus in an unprotected form when it is output to other devices. This solution also requires an additional DVD player.

Disclosure of Invention

A system for distributing content in a network includes a memory that stores content. A provider network device is in communication with the memory. The requester network device requests a copy of the content. The provider network device determines a local/remote status of the requester network device and selectively sends a copy of the content to the requester network device when the requester network device requests the content and has a local status.

In other features, the provider network device includes a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) system. The requester network device includes a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system. The provider network device includes a local network determination module that determines a local/remote status of the requester network device. The provider network device determines the local/remote status based on the response time of the requester network device.

In other aspects, the server communicates with the provider network device and stores identification data of the local network device. The provider network device determines a local/remote status based on the identification data. The identification data includes a Media Access Control (MAC) address of the local network device.

In other features, the HDD system includes nonvolatile HDD memory that stores data in a nonvolatile manner, the nonvolatile HDD memory including a user accessible section and a hidden section. A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) control module communicates with the HDD nonvolatile memory, selectively requests and receives content from the provider network device, and stores the requested content in a hidden section of the nonvolatile HDD memory.

In other aspects, after sending the request to the provider network device, the HDD control module receives a key request and transmits a key to the provider network device in response to the key request. The requested content received by the HDD system from the provider network device is encrypted using the key. The HDD control module decrypts the requested content. The requested content includes usage data that is also written to the hidden portion of the nonvolatile HDD memory, and wherein the HDD control module makes the requested content unavailable when the usage data indicates allowable usage is over. The HDD system deletes the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory. The usage data specifies a predetermined number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage. The HDD system communicates wirelessly with the network. The HDD system communicates with a network over a wired medium.

In other aspects, the DVD system includes a non-volatile memory that stores content. The DVD control module communicates with the non-volatile memory and selectively receives requests for content from the requester network device. The DVD control module requests a key from the requester network device before sending the requested content and determines an amount of time required to receive the key from the HDD system after sending the key request to the HDD system. If the key is received within a predetermined period of time, the DVD system sends the requested content to the HDD system. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to a single-hop or two-hop period of time. The DVD system encrypts the requested content before sending it to the HDD system. The DVD control module includes the usage data in the requested content that is transferred to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage.

A system for distributing content in a network includes a memory device for storing content. The provider network device is in communication with the memory device. The requester network device requests a copy of the content. The provider network device determines a local/remote status of the requester network device and selectively sends a copy of the content to the requester network device when the requester network device requests the content and has a local status.

In other features, the provider network device includes a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) system. The requester network device includes a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system. The provider network means includes local network determining means for determining a local/remote status of the requester network means. The provider network device determines the local/remote status based on the response time of the requester network device. The server device for the service communicates with the provider network device and stores identification data of the local network device. The provider network device determines a local/remote status based on the identification data. The identification data includes a Media Access Control (MAC) address of the local network device.

In other aspects, the HDD system includes nonvolatile HDD memory means for storing data in a nonvolatile manner, the nonvolatile HDD memory means including a user accessible section and a hidden section. A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) control device communicates with the HDD nonvolatile memory device, selectively requests and receives content from the provider network device, and stores the requested content in a hidden section of the nonvolatile HDD memory device. After sending the request to the provider network device, the HDD control device receives a key request and transmits a key to the provider network device in response to the key request. The requested content received by the HDD system from the provider network device is encrypted using the key. The HDD control means decrypts the requested content. The requested content includes usage data that is also written to a hidden portion of the nonvolatile HDD memory means, and wherein the HDD control means makes the requested content unavailable when the usage data indicates that the permitted use is over.

In other features, the HDD system deletes the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory device. The usage data specifies a predetermined number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage. The HDD system communicates wirelessly with the network. The HDD system communicates with a network over a wired medium.

In other aspects, the DVD system includes a non-volatile memory device for storing content. The DVD control means communicates with the non-volatile memory means and selectively receives requests for content from the requester network means. The DVD control means requests a key from the requester network means before transmitting the requested content and determines an amount of time required to receive the key from the HDD system after transmitting the key request to the HDD system. If the key is received within a predetermined period of time, the DVD control means sends the requested content to the HDD system. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to a single-hop or two-hop period of time. The DVD control means encrypts the requested content before sending it to the HDD system. The DVD control means includes the usage data in the requested content that is transferred to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage. The DVD system communicates wirelessly with the network. The DVD system communicates with a network over a wired medium.

A method for distributing content in a network comprising: storing the content in a memory; providing a provider network device in communication with the memory; providing a requester network device requesting a copy of the content; determining a local/remote status of the requester network device; and selectively sending a copy of the content to the requester network device when the requester network device requests the content and has a local status.

In other features, the provider network device includes a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) system. The requester network device includes a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system. The method includes determining a local/remote status of the requester network device. The method includes determining a local/remote status based on a response time of the requester network device. The method includes storing identification data of the local network device, wherein the provider network device determines the local/remote status based on the identification data. The method includes storing a Media Access Control (MAC) address of a local network device. The method comprises the following steps: storing data in a nonvolatile manner in user accessible and hidden sections of the HDD system; selectively requesting and receiving content from a provider network device; and storing the requested content in a hidden section of the nonvolatile HDD memory.

In other aspects, the method includes receiving a key request after sending a request to a provider network device, and transmitting a key to the provider network device in response to the key request. The method includes encrypting, using a key, requested content received by the HDD system from the provider network device. The method includes decrypting the requested content. The method comprises the following steps: writing the requested content including the usage data to a hidden portion of the non-volatile HDD system; and making the requested content unavailable when the usage data indicates that the permitted usage is over.

In other features, the method includes deleting the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory. The method includes specifying a predetermined number of allowable uses using the usage data. The method includes specifying a duration of allowable usage using the usage data. The method comprises the following steps: storing the content; and selectively receiving a request for content from a requester network device. The method comprises the following steps: requesting a key from a requester network device prior to sending the requested content; and determining an amount of time required to receive the key from the HDD system after sending the key request to the HDD system.

In other features, the method includes sending the requested content to the HDD system if the key is received within a predetermined time period. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to a single-hop or two-hop period of time. The method includes encrypting the requested content before sending the requested content to the HDD system. The method includes transmitting usage data in the requested content to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage.

A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system that communicates with a provider network device over a network includes nonvolatile HDD memory that stores data in a nonvolatile manner in user accessible and hidden sections. A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) control module communicates with the HDD nonvolatile memory, selectively requests and receives content from the provider network device, and stores the requested content in a hidden section of the nonvolatile HDD memory.

In other aspects, after sending the request to the provider network device, the HDD control module receives a key request and transmits a key to the provider network device in response to the key request. The requested content received by the HDD system from the provider network device is encrypted using the key. The HDD control module decrypts the requested content. The requested content includes usage data that is also written to the hidden portion of the nonvolatile HDD memory, and wherein the HDD control module makes the requested content unavailable when the usage data indicates allowable usage is over. The HDD system deletes the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory. The usage data specifies a predetermined number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage. The HDD system communicates wirelessly with the network. The HDD system communicates with the network over a medium.

In other features, the provider network device includes a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) system. The networked DVD/HDD system includes the HDD system and also includes the DVD system and the network.

A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system that communicates with a provider network device over a network includes nonvolatile memory means that stores data in a nonvolatile manner in user accessible and hidden sections. The control means communicates with the non-volatile memory means, selectively requests and receives content from the provider network device, and stores the requested content in the hidden section of the non-volatile memory means.

After sending the request to the provider network device, the control apparatus receives a key request and transmits a key to the provider network device in response to the key request. The requested content received by the system from the provider network device is encrypted using the key. The control means decrypts the requested content. The requested content includes usage data that is also written to a hidden portion of the non-volatile memory device, and wherein the control means makes the requested content unavailable when the usage data indicates allowable usage is over.

In other aspects, the system deletes the requested content from the non-volatile memory device. The usage data specifies a predetermined number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage. The HDD system communicates wirelessly with the network. The HDD system communicates with the network over a medium.

In other features, the provider network device includes a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) system. The networked DVD/HDD system includes the HDD system and also includes the DVD system and the network.

A method for operating a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system in communication with a provider network device over a network, comprising: storing data in a non-volatile manner in the user accessible region and the hidden region; selectively requesting and receiving content from a provider network device; and storing the requested content in the hidden area.

In other aspects, the method includes receiving a key request after sending a request to a provider network device, and transmitting a key to the provider network device in response to the key request. The method includes encrypting, using a key, requested content received by the HDD system from the provider network device. The method includes decrypting the requested content. The method comprises the following steps: writing the requested content including the usage data to the hidden portion; and making the requested content unavailable when the usage data indicates allowable usage ends. The method includes deleting the requested content from the hidden area. The method includes specifying a predetermined number of allowable uses using the usage data. The method includes specifying a duration of allowable usage using the usage data.

A Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) system that communicates with a requester network device over a network includes a non-volatile memory that stores content. The control module communicates with the non-volatile memory, selectively receives requests for content from the requester network device, determines a local/remote status, transmits the requested content if the requester network device has a local status, and does not transmit the requested content if the requester network device has a remote status.

In other features, the control module requests a key from the requester network device before sending the requested content. The control module determines an amount of time required to receive the key from the requester network device after sending the key request. The control module sends the requested content to the requester network device if the key is received within a predetermined period of time. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to a single-hop or two-hop period of time. The control module encrypts the requested content before sending the requested content to the requester network device. The control module includes the usage data in the requested content that is transmitted to the requester network device. The usage data specifies the number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage. The DVD system communicates wirelessly with the network. The DVD system communicates with the network via a medium.

In other features, the requester network device includes a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system. Networked DVD/HDD systems include DVD systems and also HDD systems and networks.

A Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) system that communicates with a hard requester network device over a network includes a non-volatile memory device that stores content. The control means communicates with the non-volatile memory means, selectively receives requests for content from the requester network device, determines a local/remote status, transmits the requested content if the requester network device has a local status, and does not transmit the requested content if the requester network device has a remote status.

In other features, the control means requests the key from the requester network device prior to sending the requested content. The control means determines an amount of time required to receive the key from the requester network device after sending the key request. The control means transmits the requested content to the requester network device if the key is received within a predetermined period of time. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to a two-hop period of time. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to the period of a single hop. The control module encrypts the requested content before sending the requested content to the requester network device. The control means includes the usage data in the requested content that is transmitted to the requester network device. The usage data specifies the number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage. The control device is in wireless communication with the network. The DVD system communicates with the network via a medium.

In other features, the requester network device includes a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system. Networked DVD/HDD systems include DVD systems and also HDD systems and networks.

A method for operating a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) system in communication with a hard requester network device over a network, comprising: storing content in a non-volatile memory; selectively receiving a request for content from a requester network device; judging the local/remote state; sending the requested content if the requester network device has a local status; the requested content is not sent if the requester network device has a remote status.

In other features, the method includes requesting a key from a requester network device prior to sending the requested content. The method includes determining an amount of time required to receive a key from a requester network device after sending a key request. The method includes sending the requested content to the requester network device if the key is received within a predetermined time period. The method includes setting the predetermined period of time to a period of time approximately equal to two hops. The method includes setting the predetermined period of time to be approximately equal to a single hop period of time. The method includes encrypting the requested content prior to sending the requested content to the requester network device. The method includes including usage data in the requested content transmitted to the requester network device. The usage data specifies the number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage.

A system for distributing content in a network includes a memory storing content and a provider network device in communication with the memory. A media server (media server) communicates with the provider network device. The requester network device requests a copy of the content. The media server determines a local/remote status of the requester network device and enables the provider network device to send a copy of the content to the requester network device when the requester network device requests the content and has a local status.

In other features, the provider network device includes a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) system. The requester network device includes a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system. The media server includes a local network determination module that determines a local/remote status of the requester network device. The media server determines the local/remote status based on the response time of the requester network device.

In other aspects, the server communicates with the media server and stores identification data of local network devices. The media server determines the local/remote status based on the identification data. Alternatively, the media server stores identification data of the local network device, wherein the media server determines the local/remote status based on the identification data. The identification data includes a Media Access Control (MAC) address of the local network device.

In other features, the HDD system includes nonvolatile HDD memory that stores data in a nonvolatile manner, the nonvolatile HDD memory including a user accessible section and a hidden section. A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) control module communicates with the HDD nonvolatile memory, selectively requests content from the media server, and receives content from at least one of the provider network device and/or the media server and stores the requested content in a hidden section of the nonvolatile HDD memory. After sending the request to the media server, the HDD control module receives a key request and transmits a key to at least one of the media server and/or the provider network device in response to the key request. The requested content received by the HDD system from at least one of the provider network device and/or the media server is encrypted using a key. The HDD control module decrypts the requested content. The requested content includes usage data that is also written to the hidden portion of the nonvolatile HDD memory. When the usage data indicates allowable usage ends, the HDD control module makes the requested content unavailable. The HDD system deletes the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory. The usage data specifies a predetermined number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage. The HDD system communicates wirelessly with the network. The HDD system communicates with the network over a wired medium.

The DVD system includes a non-volatile memory that stores content. The DVD control module is in communication with the non-volatile memory and selectively receives a request for content from at least one of the media server and/or the requester network device. The media server requests a key from the requester network device before sending the requested content and determines an amount of time required to receive the key from the HDD system after sending the key request to the HDD system. The media server enables the DVD system to send the requested content to at least one of the HDD system and/or the media server if the key is received within a predetermined time period. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to a two-hop period of time. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to the period of a single hop.

In other aspects, at least one of the DVD system and/or the media server encrypts the requested content before sending the requested content to the HDD system. At least one of the DVD control module and/or the media server includes usage data in the requested content that is transmitted to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage. The DVD system communicates wirelessly with the network. The DVD system communicates with the network via a wired medium.

A system for distributing content in a network includes a memory device for storing content. The provider network device is in communication with the memory device. The media serving means communicates with the provider network means. The requester network device requests a copy of the content. The media serving means determines a local/remote status of the requester network means and enables the provider network means to send a copy of the content to the requester network means when the requester network means requests the content and has a local status.

In other features, the provider network device includes a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) system. The requester network device includes a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system. The media serving means includes local network determining means for determining a local/remote status of the requester network means. The media serving device determines the local/remote status based on the response time of the requester network device. The server device communicates with the provider network device and stores identification data of the local network device. The media serving means determines the local/remote status based on the identification data. Alternatively, the media serving means stores identification data of local network means. The identification data includes a Media Access Control (MAC) address of the local network device.

In other aspects, the HDD system includes a nonvolatile HDD memory device that stores data in a nonvolatile manner, the nonvolatile HDD memory device including a user accessible section and a hidden section. A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) control device communicates with the HDD nonvolatile memory device, selectively requests and receives content from the media serving device, and stores the requested content in a hidden section of the nonvolatile HDD memory device. After sending the request to the media service device, the HDD control device receives a key request and transmits a key to at least one of the media service device and the provider network device in response to the key request. The requested content received by the HDD system from at least one of the provider network device and/or the media serving device is encrypted using the key. The HDD control means decrypts the requested content. The requested content includes usage data that is also written to a hidden portion of the nonvolatile HDD memory means, and the HDD control means makes the requested content unavailable when the usage data indicates allowable use is over. The HDD system deletes the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory means. The usage data specifies a predetermined number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage. The HDD system communicates wirelessly with the network. The HDD system communicates with the network over a wired medium.

In other features, the DVD system includes a non-volatile memory device that stores content and a DVD control device that communicates with the non-volatile memory device and that selectively receives requests for content from the media serving device. The media serving means requests a key from the requester network means before sending the requested content and determines an amount of time required to receive the key from the HDD system after sending the key request to the HDD system. At least one of the DVD control means and/or the media serving means sends the requested content to the HDD system if the key is received within a predetermined time period. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to a two-hop period of time. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to the period of a single hop. At least one of the DVD control means and/or the media serving means encrypts the requested content before sending the requested content to the HDD system. At least one of the DVD control means and/or the media serving means includes the usage data in the requested content that is transferred to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage. The DVD system communicates wirelessly with the network. The DVD system communicates with the network via a wired medium.

A method for distributing content in a network comprising: storing the content in a memory; providing a provider network device in communication with the memory; providing a media serving device in communication with a provider network device; providing a requester network device requesting a copy of the content; determining a local/remote status of the requester network device using the media service device; and selectively sending a copy of the content to the requester network device when the requester network device requests the content and has a local status.

In other features, the provider network device includes a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) system. The requester network device includes a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system. The method includes determining a local/remote status of the requester network device. The method includes determining a local/remote status based on a response time of the requester network device. The method includes storing identification data of local network devices. The media serving device determines the local/remote status based on the identification data. The method includes storing a Media Access Control (MAC) address of a local network device.

In other aspects, the method comprises: storing data in a nonvolatile manner in user accessible and hidden sections of the HDD system; selectively requesting and receiving content from a provider network device via a media serving device; and storing the requested content in a hidden section of the nonvolatile HDD memory.

In other features, the method includes receiving a key request after sending the request to the media service device, and transmitting a key to the media service device in response to the key request. The method includes encrypting, using a key, requested content received by the HDD system from at least one of the provider network device and/or the media service device. The method includes decrypting the requested content. The method comprises the following steps: writing the requested content including the usage data to a hidden portion of the non-volatile HDD system; and making the requested content unavailable when the usage data indicates allowable usage ends.

In other features, the method includes deleting the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory. The method includes specifying a predetermined number of allowable uses using the usage data. The method includes specifying a duration of allowable usage using the usage data.

The method comprises the following steps: storing the content in the provider network device; and selectively receiving a request for content from the requester network device via the media serving device. The method comprises the following steps: requesting a key from the requester network device prior to sending the requested content; and determining an amount of time required to receive the key from the HDD system after sending the key request to the HDD system. The method includes sending the requested content to the HDD system if the key is received within a predetermined time period. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to a two-hop period of time. The predetermined period of time is approximately equal to the period of a single hop. The method includes encrypting the requested content before sending the requested content to the HDD system. The method includes transmitting usage data in the requested content to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the number of allowable uses. The usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage.

Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Drawings

The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a provider network device that provides protected digital content to one or more requester network devices in a local network;

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a first exemplary networked DVD and HDD system according to the present invention that communicates with a modem;

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a second exemplary networked DVD and HDD system according to the present invention that communicates with a modem;

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of a third exemplary networked DVD and HDD system according to the present invention that communicates with a modem;

FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of a fourth exemplary networked DVD and HDD system according to the present invention that communicates with a modem;

FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary requester network device that includes a HDD system;

FIG. 7A is a functional block diagram of an exemplary provider network device including a DVD system with read-only operation;

FIG. 7B is a functional block diagram of an exemplary provider network device including a DVD system with read and write operations;

FIG. 7C is a functional block diagram of a provider or requester network device including a combined DVD/HDD system;

FIG. 8 illustrates user accessible and hidden sections of the non-volatile memory of the HDD of FIG. 6;

9A-9D are flowcharts illustrating security steps performed by provider and/or requester network devices;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating steps of a method for allowing playback of a copy protected file from a requester network device N times;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating steps of a method for limiting the number of times a copy protected file stored on a requester network device can be played;

FIG. 12A is a functional block diagram of a network including a media server that supplies protected content from a provider to a requester;

FIG. 12B is a functional block diagram of a network including a media server that supplies protected content from a DVD system to a HDD system;

FIG. 13 illustrates a media server in an exemplary network configuration; and

fig. 14 is a flow chart illustrating the steps performed by a media server according to the present invention.

Detailed Description

The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses. As used herein, the term module or device refers to an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) and memory that execute one or more software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and/or other suitable components that provide the described functionality. For purposes of clarity, the same reference numbers will be used in the drawings to identify similar elements.

Referring now to fig. 1, a local network 2 includes a router 3, a modem 4, and a provider network device 5, as described below, the provider network device 5 selectively provides protected content 6 to one or more local requester network devices. The provider network device 5 is a network-compatible device that includes a local network determining module 7. One or more requester network devices 8-1, 8-2, …, and 8-N (collectively requesters 8) selectively request a copy of protected content 6. It will be appreciated that although a router 3 and wireline connection are shown, other network configurations will readily occur to those skilled in the art, including but not limited to wireless Access Points (APs), ad-hoc network connection configurations, and/or wireless network configurations. Although the provider network device 5 is shown to include memory, such as non-volatile memory, for the protected content 6, the protected content 6 may be stored internal and/or external to the provider network device 5.

The modem 4 is connected to a broadband service provider 9, the broadband service provider 9 providing video content, digital content, a broadband connection to a Distributed Communication System (DCS)10, and/or other network services. Service provider 9 may provide broadband access using a wired or wireless connection, coaxial cable, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), satellite, and/or any other connection system or method.

The DCS 10 is connected to the network devices 12-11, 12-12, … 12-1P, 12-21, 12-22, … 12-2R, … and 12-M1, 12-M2, … 12-MS (collectively referred to as network devices 12) by one or more servers 11-1, 11-2, … and 11-M. When a requester network device requests a copy of the protected content 6, the local network determination module 7 selectively determines whether the requester network device has a local state or a remote state. The method increases security by preventing access to protected content by a remote network device.

There are a number of different ways for the local network determination module 7 to determine the local/remote status of the requester network device. For example, in some embodiments, provider network device 5 determines the local/remote status by determining the amount of time required to receive a response from the requester network device. If the response time is less than the predetermined period of time, the requester network device is determined to have a local status. If not, the requester network device has a remote status and the copy of the protected content is denied. The amount of time to send and receive data to and from the remote network device 12 via the service provider 9, DCS 10 and server 11 is significantly greater than the amount of time required for the local requester network device to respond. In other words, the predetermined period of time is set to be greater than the response time required by the local requester network device and less than the response time required by the remote requester network device.

In other embodiments, the provider network device checks a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) table in a DHCP server to determine a Media Access Control (MAC) address of the local network device. If the requester network device matches a local MAC address in the table, the requester network device has a local status and a copy of the protected content may be sent. If not, the requester network device has a remote status and a copy of the protected content is not sent.

In further embodiments, provider network device 5 may send a message to router 3 to temporarily block the external port of router 3 or modem 4 to service provider 9 (and DCS 10). After blocking the external port, provider network device 5 determines whether the requester network device is still able to communicate (which would be true if the requester network device had a local status). The provider network device sends the copy protected content if the provider network device is able to communicate with the requesting network device. As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, one or more of these methods may be combined together and/or other methods may be used to determine the local/remote status of the requester network device.

Although portions of the following description employ a DVD system and/or a combined DVD/HDD system as the provider network device and another network device including a combined DVD/HDD system and/or a HDD system as the requester network device, those skilled in the art will recognize that other provider network devices and/or requester network devices may be used. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that all of the embodiments described below in connection with the DVD and HDD systems can be implemented using any other suitable network device.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a functional block diagram of a first exemplary networked DVD and HDD system is shown. The local network 13 includes a modem 14 that communicates with a service provider 18 over a medium 16. The service provider 18 provides a connection to a Distributed Communication System (DCS)22, such as the internet, a LAN, WAN, or other distributed network, and/or provides other network services such as video content, telephony services, and the like. The modem 14 may be connected to a router 28, the router 28 connecting a plurality of network devices 30-1, 30-2, …, and 30-N (collectively referred to as network devices 30) to the modem 14. One of the network devices 30-1 is connected to a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) system 34, which HDD system 34 may be connected to a television or monitor 38. The television or monitor 38 may also be connected to the media 16, either directly or through a set-top box (not shown), and receive content from the service provider 18.

Local network 13 may include an Access Point (AP)40 that communicates with router 28 and one or more wireless stations 42-1, 42-2, …, and 42-N (collectively referred to as wireless stations 42). Although AP 40 is shown connected to router 28, the AP and router functions may be combined into a single device. Alternatively, the combined AP/router may be directly connected to modem 14. Other types of network configurations and connections will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

The network device 30-2 communicates with the router 28 and a DVD player or a combination DVD/HDD player 44 (both of which are hereinafter referred to as "DVD player 44"), such as shown and described in U.S. patent application No.11/039,288, filed 2005, 1, 19, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The DVD player 44, in turn, may communicate with a television or monitor 46, and the television or monitor 46 may be connected to the medium 16 or a set-top box 50. The service provider 18 provides broadband access, video content, and/or other services to the DCS 22. One or more other servers 54-1 and 54-2 (collectively referred to as servers 54) provide an interface for network devices 60, computers 62, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), etc. to DCS 22.

In some implementations, a user of the television or monitor 38 may want to access DVD content associated with the DVD player 44. Initially, the HDD34 may request a list of available content from the DVD player. The DVD sends a list of available content. The HDD34 sends a message to the DVD player 44 via the network requesting a copy of the content selected from the list. The DVD system determines whether the HDD system has a local status. If the HDD system or other requester network device has a local status, the content file is sent. If the HDD system or other requester network device has a remote status, the request is denied. The local/remote status determination may be made based on response time, MAC address in DHCP table, external read port disconnection and corresponding dialogue, and/or other suitable methods.

In some implementations, the DVD44 responds by requesting a key from the HDD 34. The DVD44 starts a timer that determines the amount of time required for the HDD34 to respond. The HDD34 sends the requested key to the DVD 44. The DVD44 determines whether the HDD34 responded within a predetermined amount of time.

If the HDD34 responds within the predetermined amount of time, the DVD44 scrambles (scrambles) the selected content using the key and sends the scrambled content over the network to the HDD 34. The HDD34 descrambles the content with the key and allows the content to be played back on the television or monitor 38. It will be appreciated that the key exchange may also occur earlier than when the HDD initially requests the list of available content.

The HDD34 may also receive usage data from the DVD player that restricts usage. For example, the usage data may allow N replays and/or replay for a predetermined period of time. After the allowed usage period as specified in the usage data ends, the HDD34 makes the video content unavailable. For example, the HDD may delete the video content.

In some implementations, the HDD34 includes a user accessible section and a hidden section. Video content from DVD44 is stored in the hidden area of DVD 44. The key provided by the HDD34 may be part of a public/private key encryption system and/or other suitable data encryption. Alternatively, other forms of key-based scrambling may be performed.

If the DVD player is a single DVD player, the DVD sends a list of content available on the DVD in the DVD player. If the DVD player includes a disk transfer device, the DVD player sends a list of DVD content available from a plurality of DVDs in the disk transfer device. If the DVD player is a combination DVD/HDD player, the DVD/HDD player sends a list of DVD content available on one or more DVDs in the player and DVD content stored on the associated HDD.

Referring now to fig. 3-5, various exemplary configurations of the present invention are shown. In these embodiments, the provider network device includes a DVD system and/or a combined DVD/HDD system and the requester network device includes a HDD system and/or a combined DVD/HDD system. In FIG. 3, the HDD34 is connected to the network by the station 42-1, and the station 42-1 wirelessly communicates with the AP 40. The DVD44 and television 46 are connected by the network device 30-2 and medium 16 to the router 28. In FIG. 4, HDD34 is connected to router 28 by network device 30-1 and medium 16. The DVD44 is connected to the network by the station 42-2, and the station 42-2 communicates wirelessly with the AP 40. In FIG. 5, the HDD34 and DVD44 are connected to the network by one or more stations 42-1 and/or 42-2. Various other network configurations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Referring now to FIG. 6, an exemplary requester network device includes HDD system 110 with HDD PCB 114. Buffer 118 stores read, write, and/or volatile control data that is associated with control of HDD system 110. The buffer 118 typically uses volatile memory with low latency. For example, SDRAM or other types of low latency memory may be used. Non-volatile memory 119, such as flash memory, may also be used to store critical data, such as non-volatile control code.

A processor 122 disposed on the HDD PCB 114 performs control and/or data processing related to the operation of the HDD system 110. A hard disk control module (HDC)126 communicates with the input/output interface 124 and with a spindle/Voice Coil Motor (VCM) driver or module 130 and/or a read/write channel module 134. The HDC 126 coordinates data input/output with a host 135 via an interface 124, and control of the spindle/VCM driver 130, the read/write channel module 134, and the processor 122.

During write operations, the read/write channel module 134 encodes data to be written onto the read/write device 159. The read/write channel module 134 performs reliability processing on the write signal and may, for example, apply Error Correction Coding (ECC), run length limited coding (RLL), and the like. During a read operation, the read/write channel module 134 converts an analog read signal of the read/write device 159 to a digital read signal. The converted signal is then detected and decoded using known techniques to recover the data written to the HDD.

The Hard Disk Drive Assembly (HDDA)150 includes one or more hard drive disks 152, the hard drive disks 152 including a magnetic coating that stores a magnetic field. The disk 152 is rotated by a spindle motor, shown schematically at 154. Typically, during read/write operations, the hard drive platter 152 is rotated at a controlled speed by a spindle motor 154. One or more read/write arms 158 move relative to the disk 152 to read and/or write data to/from the hard drive disk 152. The spindle/VCM driver 130 controls a spindle motor 154 that rotates the disk 152. The spindle/VCM driver 130 also generates control signals that position the read/write arm 158, for example using a voice coil actuator, a stepper motor, or any other suitable actuator.

A read/write device 159 is located near the end of the read/write arm 158. The read/write device 159 includes a write element, such as an inductor, that generates a magnetic field. The read/write device 159 also includes a read element (e.g., a Magnetoresistive (MR) element) that senses the magnetic field on the disk 152. The HDDA 150 includes a preamplifier circuit 160 that amplifies analog read/write signals. When reading data, the preamplifier circuit 160 amplifies the low-level signal from the read element and outputs the amplified signal to the read/write channel module 134. When writing data, a write current is generated that flows through a write element of the read/write device 159. The write current is switched to generate a magnetic field having a positive or negative polarity. The positive or negative polarity is stored by the hard drive platter 152 and is used to represent data.

Referring now to fig. 7A and 7B, an exemplary provider network device includes a DVD system 210. The DVD PCB 214 includes a buffer 218 that stores read data, write data, and/or volatile control code associated with the control of the DVD system 210. The buffer 218 may employ volatile memory such as SDRAM or other types of low latency memory. Non-volatile memory 219, such as flash memory, may also be used to store critical data, such as data relating to the DVD write format, and/or non-volatile control code. A processor 222 disposed on the DVD PCB 214 performs control and/or data processing related to the operation of the DVD system 210. The processor 222 also performs decoding for required compression/decompression and/or copy protection. The DVD control module 226 communicates with the input/output interface 224 and with a spindle/Feed Motor (FM) driver 230 and/or a read/write channel module 234. The DVD control module 226 coordinates data input/output via the interface 224 and control of the spindle/FM driver, read/write channel module 234 and the processor 222.

During write operations, the read/write channel module 234 encodes data to be written to the DVD disk by an optical read/write (ORW) OR optical read-Only (OR) device 259. The read/write channel module 234 performs reliability processing on the signals and may, for example, apply ECC, RLL, and the like. During a read operation, the read/write channel module 234 converts the analog output of the ORW OR OR device 259 to a digital signal. The converted signal is then detected and decoded using known techniques to recover the data written on the DVD.

The DVD assembly (DVDA)250 includes a DVD disc 252 that optically stores data. The disk 252 is rotated by a spindle motor, shown schematically at 254. During read/write operations, the spindle motor 254 rotates the DVD disk 252 at a controlled and/or variable speed. The ORW OR OR device 259 moves relative to the DVD disk 252 to read and/OR write data to/from the DVD disk 252. The ORW OR device 259 typically includes a laser and a light sensor.

For DVD read/write and DVD read-only systems, during a read operation, a laser is directed onto a track on the DVD that contains lands and pits. The light sensor senses reflections caused by bumps/pits. In some DVD read/write (RW) applications, a laser may also be used to heat a die layer (die layer) on a DVD disc during a write operation. If the die is heated to a temperature, the die is transparent and represents a binary digital value. If the stamp is heated to another temperature, the stamp is opaque and represents another binary digital value. Other techniques for writing DVDs may be used.

The spindle/FM driver 230 controls a spindle motor 254, the spindle motor 254 controllably rotates the DVD disk 252. The spindle/FM driver 230 also generates control signals to position the feed motor 258, for example, using a voice coil actuator, a stepper motor, or any other suitable actuator. The feed motor 258 typically moves the ORW OR device 259 radially relative to the DVD disc 252. The laser driver 261 generates a laser drive signal based on the output of the read/write channel module 234. The DVDA 250 includes a preamplifier circuit 260 that amplifies the analog read signal. When reading data, the preamplifier circuit 260 amplifies the low-level signal from the ORW OR OR device and outputs the amplified signal to the read/write channel module device 234.

The DVD system 210 also includes a codec module 240, the codec module 240 encoding and/or decoding video, such as any of the MPEG formats. Audio and/or video digital signal processors and/or modules 242 and 244, respectively, perform audio and/or video signal processing.

Similar to HDD system 110, portions of DVD system 210 may be implemented by one or more Integrated Circuits (ICs) or chips. For example, the processor 222 and the DVD control module 226 may be implemented by a single chip. The spindle/FM driver 230 and/or the read/write channel module 234 may also be implemented by the same chip as the processor 222, the DVD control module 226, and/or by other chips. Most DVD systems 210 other than the DVDA 250 can also be implemented as SOCs.

Referring now to FIG. 7C, a simplified functional block diagram of an exemplary combined DVD/HDD system 280 according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown. The combined DVD/HDD system can be used as either a provider network device or a requester network device. The combined DVD/HDD system 280 includes a combined system control module 284 that communicates with volatile memory 292 and non-volatile memory 290, which store data for both DVD and HDD operations. The system control module 284 communicates with an interface 296 of a host 298 via an interface 294. In some embodiments, interfaces 294 and 296 are serial ATA interfaces, Fibre Channel (FC), serial attached small computer system interface (SAS), or other suitable interfaces.

The combined DVD/HDD system controls both the DVD and HDD systems. The DVD/HDD system reduces overall system overhead and provides improved functionality and performance. By using a single DRAM and flash memory for both DVD and HDD data storage, overhead is reduced. A single power supply and a reduced number of external connections are required, which further reduces overhead.

In addition, the unified DVD/HDD system allows copy protected content to be copied directly to the HDD bit by bit. In other words, copy protected content can be copied without decrypting the copy protection scheme or Digital Rights Management (DRM), and without requiring significant operating system intervention. Traditionally, separate DVD and HDD systems require the DVD to decode/decrypt the DRM or other copy protection before output. The DRM or other copy protection may or may not allow subsequent copying to the HDD. By incorporating the system, additional functionality is provided due to the built-in security of the copy protection or DRM scheme, since the DRM or copy protection remains intact. For example, a single DVD drive copy operation is supported without removing the copy protection or DRM. Further, the HDD can operate as a virtual DVD changer (DVD changer). Other variations of a combination DVD/HDD system are shown and described in U.S. patent application No.11/039,288, filed on.1/19/2005.

Referring now to FIG. 8, partitioning of the nonvolatile memory 300 of the HDD into user accessible and hidden sections is shown, according to some embodiments. The nonvolatile memory 300 of the HDD is allocated into a first portion 304 that is user accessible and a second portion 308 that is not user accessible (or hidden). According to some embodiments of the invention, the second hidden portion 308 is used in one or more of the following ways. The hidden portion 308 is used to store the contents of the DVD to be copied at 324. In addition, the hidden portion 308 of the HDD is used to provide a virtual DVD disk transfer device at 320. In other words, a plurality of DVDs can be copied to the HDD and played back later. The hidden portion 308 may also store a write strategy for the DVD (310), a static or dynamic write buffer for the DVD (314), and a static or dynamic read buffer for the DVD (316).

Referring now to fig. 9A, steps performed by a network device are shown. Control begins in step 350. In step 352, control determines whether the provider network device receives a request for a copy of the protected content. If not, control returns to step 352. If step 352 is true, control determines whether the requester network device is located on the local network in step 354. If step 354 is false, control denies the request and returns to step 352. If step 354 is true, the provider network device sends a copy of the protected content to the requester network device in step 356.

The provider network device determines whether the requester network device is in the local network in any suitable manner. For example, the response time of the requester network device may be compared to a predetermined threshold. In other embodiments, the provider network device may temporarily request that the external port of the router or modem be blocked so that the provider network device can confirm the local/remote status of the requester network device before the file is sent. In other implementations, the local server may be queried to determine the local network device. Other methods for determining local/remote status may also be used.

Referring now to FIG. 9B, steps for determining local/remote status by temporarily blocking external ports are shown. Control begins in step 360. In step 362, control determines whether the provider network device receives a request for a copy protected file. If step 362 is false, control returns to step 362. If step 362 is true, control continues with step 364 where the provider network device requests that the external port of the router or modem be blocked at step 364. At step 368, the provider network device determines whether the requester network device has a local status. For example, the provider network device may send a message to the requester network device and wait for a response. If step 368 is false, the provider network device denies the request and control returns to step 362. If step 368 is true, the provider network device sends a copy of the file to the requester network device at step 370. The provider network device unblocks the external connection or port of the router or modem at step 374.

Referring now to fig. 9C, steps for querying a local server (e.g., a DHCP server) to determine local/remote status are shown. Control begins in step 380. In step 382, control determines whether the provider network device receives a request for a copy protected file. If step 382 is false, control returns to step 382. If step 382 is true, control continues with step 384 where the provider network device queries the server for the identity of the local network device at step 384. The identification may include a MAC address, although other identification types may be used. At step 386, the provider network device determines whether the requester network device has a local status. If step 386 is false, the provider network device denies the request and control returns to step 382. If step 386 is true, the provider network device sends a copy of the file to the requester network device at step 388.

Referring now to fig. 9D, steps performed by the network system are generally shown. In step 402, control begins. At step 404, the provider network device determines whether a copy of the content was requested by the requester network device. If not, control returns to step 404. Otherwise, control continues with step 408 and the provider network device requests the key from the requester network device. At step 412, the provider network device starts a timer.

At step 416, the provider network device determines whether a key is received. If the key is not received and (in some embodiments) the predetermined time period has not been exceeded, control continues with step 416. Otherwise, control continues with step 420 and the provider network device stops the timer. In step 422, control determines whether the timer is less than a predetermined period of time.

In some embodiments, the predetermined period of time is less than or equal to the amount of time required for the packet to travel one or two hops. By limiting the response time, additional security is provided. The amount of time required for a computer or other device outside the local network to respond will exceed a predetermined period of time. In other words, packets containing keys from computers (e.g., computer 62) or other network devices (e.g., network device 60) connected outside the local network will exceed one or two hops. This is due to the time required to pass through the modem and the service provider.

If step 422 is false, control returns to step 404. If step 422 is true, the provider network device encrypts or scrambles the content with the key and sends the encrypted or scrambled content over the network to the requesting device at step 426, and control continues with step 404.

Referring now to FIG. 10, enabling slave requesters is shownThe network device plays back the copy protected file N times. Control begins in step 600. In step 602, control determines whether the copy protected file has already been stored on the requester network device. If not, control returns to step 602. If step 602 is true, control sets N of the file to 1 at step 604. In step 606, control determines whether the copy protected file stored on the requester network device has been played. If step 606 is false, control returns to step 606. If step 606 is true, control increments N at step 610. In step 614, control determines whether N-N_max. If step 614 is false, control returns to step 606. If step 614 is true, control deletes or otherwise makes the copy protected file unavailable from the requester network device in step 618 and control returns to step 602.

Referring now to FIG. 11, steps of a method for limiting the number of times a copy protected file stored on a requester network device can be played are shown. Control begins with step 640. In step 644, control determines whether the copy protected file is already stored on the requester network device. If step 644 is false, control returns to step 644. Otherwise, control continues with step 646 and sets a timer. In step 648, control determines whether the timer has expired. If step 648 is false, control returns to step 648. If step 648 is true, control deletes the copy protected file from the requester network device in step 652 and control continues with step 644. Although a timer is described, any usage measurement and/or comparison may be performed. For example, a date and/or time stamp may be used and may be compared to the current date and/or time. Other usage data types will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Referring now to fig. 12A, a media server 700 may be used to serve protected content from a provider 702 to a requestor 704. Although a router 706 is shown connecting the media server 700, the provider 702, and the requester 704, other network configurations and connections may be used, such as, but not limited to, ad-hoc network mode, peer-to-peer (peer) mode, and others. In some embodiments, the media server includes a local/remote status determination module 701 as previously described. The media server 700 provides a list of available content to the requester 704. The requestor 704 requests content. The media server 700 confirms that the requester is on the home network in any of the methods described above. If the requester 704 is on the local network, the media server 700 requests content from the provider 702. The provider 702 sends the content directly to the requester 704 or to the media server 700, and the media server 700 sends the content to the requester 704.

Referring now to fig. 12B and 13, media server 700 serves protected content from DVD system 710 to HDD system 712. The DVD system 710 and HDD system 712 may be implemented as described in the previous embodiments. In fig. 13, a media server 700 may be implemented in a network as shown. Other network configurations, such as those described herein, as well as other network configurations, are contemplated. The media server may be connected to the network in a wired or wireless manner.

Referring now to fig. 14, a flowchart illustrating steps performed by a media server according to the present invention is shown. Control begins in step 720. In step 722, control determines whether the server receives a request for a copy of the protected file from the requestor. If false, control returns to step 722. If true, the media server determines whether the requester has a local status at step 724. The local status of the requester may be determined in any of the manners described above. If step 726 is true, then the server requests the file from the provider and sends the file to the requestor in step 728. Alternatively, the provider may send the file directly to the requestor.

Those skilled in the art can now appreciate from the foregoing description that the broad teachings of the present invention can be implemented in a variety of forms. Therefore, while this invention has been described in connection with particular examples thereof, the true scope of the invention should not be so limited since other modifications will become apparent to the skilled practitioner upon a study of the drawings, the specification and the following claims.

This application is related to a continuation of U.S. patent application No.11/085,761, filed on 21/3/2005. This application is related to U.S. patent application No.11/039,288, filed on.1/19/2005. The entire contents of the above application are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims (12)

1. A hard disk drive system in communication with a provider network device over a network, comprising:

a non-volatile hard drive memory that stores data in a non-volatile manner in the user accessible and hidden areas; and

a hard drive control module in communication with the hard drive non-volatile memory, selectively requesting and receiving content from a provider network device, and storing the requested content in the hidden section of the non-volatile hard drive memory.

2. The hard disk drive system of claim 1 wherein the hard disk drive control module receives a key request after sending the request to a provider network device and transmits a key to the provider network device in response to the key request.

3. The hard disk drive system of claim 2 wherein the requested content received by the hard disk drive system from a provider network device is encrypted using the key.

4. The hard disk drive system of claim 3 wherein the hard disk drive control module decrypts the requested content.

5. The hard disk drive system of claim 1 wherein the requested content includes usage data that is also written to the hidden portion of the non-volatile hard disk drive memory, and wherein the hard disk drive control module makes the requested content unavailable when the usage data indicates allowable usage is over.

6. The hard disk drive system of claim 5 wherein the hard disk drive system deletes the requested content from the non-volatile hard disk drive memory.

7. The hard disk drive system of claim 5 wherein the usage data specifies a predetermined number of allowable uses.

8. The hard disk drive system of claim 5 wherein the usage data specifies a duration of allowable usage.

9. The hard disk drive system of claim 1 wherein the hard disk drive system is in wireless communication with a network.

10. The hard disk drive system of claim 1 wherein the hard disk drive system communicates with a network over a medium.

11. The hard disk drive system of claim 1 wherein the provider network device comprises a digital versatile disk system.

12. A networked digital versatile disk/hard drive system comprising the hard drive system of claim 11, and further comprising the digital versatile disk system and the network.