JP2003030312A - Renting managing method for video contents using multimedia terminal - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a renting managing method which enables a person who desires to rent out video contents to safely and excellently rent out them at a low price as early as possible, by using a multimedia terminal. SOLUTION: This method has steps (S1, CS1) of confirming that the member number and password of the person who desires to rent out video contents which are inputted from the multimedia terminal 3 coincide with the previously registered contents at a video rental managing center, steps (S2, CS2) of outputting a renting menu of video contents by the multimedia terminal 3, a step (CS3) of sending at least the title of video contents selected from the renting menu by the multimedia terminal 3, a step (CS5) of reading the selected video contents out of a video contents file and sending them out by the video renting managing center, and a step (S9) of writing the received video contents to a repeatedly rewritable storage medium by the multimedia terminal 3.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method for providing a video content lending service using a multimedia terminal installed in a store or the like.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Cassettes or DVDs containing analog video tapes on which video contents such as movies, television programs or animations are recorded.
A rental video service for lending (digital, versatile, disc) and the like is known. In addition, DVD
At present, the amount is still small, and analog video cassettes are the mainstream.

When a lender desires to rent a video content, the lender wishes to lend the target video content in the following steps.

(1) First, the loan applicant goes to a video rental shop and presents official documents such as a driver's license, passport or health insurance card. Then, on the shop side, based on the official documents, at least the address, name, contact information, membership number of the applicant for lending is registered,
Issue a membership card that can refer to the membership number etc. to applicants.

(2) The loan applicant takes out the desired video content displayed in the shop and submits it together with the membership card to the reception counter of the shop.

(3) The staff on the shop side confirms the identity of the applicant for lending (confirmation of availability of lending) from the membership number of the membership card, and inputs the ID code of the video content and the desired number of days for lending to the registration machine. , Calculate and bill.

(4) The loan applicant pays the fee.

(5) In exchange for the charge, the staff on the shop side delivers the video contents and the loan details in which the lending date, the lending period, the number of lending, etc. are described to the lending applicant.

(6) The loan applicant brings the video content to a viewing place such as a home and views the video content with a video reproducing device or the like.

(7) The loan applicant returns to the shop with the video content that he / she has watched, and submits the video content to the return counter together with the loan details.

(8) The shop staff collates the loan details with the video contents, and if they match, and if all the video contents are within the loan deadline, the process ends, but if there is overdue. Calculates the arrears and charges the loan applicant.

(9) When the loan applicant pays the overdue fee, the video content lending process ends.

By the way, the number of convenience stores, which are said to be over 50,000 stores nationwide, is far greater than that of the above-mentioned video rental shops, and thus the area covered is wide. On the other hand, from the customer's point of view, there is a high probability that there is a convenience store near my house, but a low probability that there is a video rental shop near my house.

Further, at convenience stores, multimedia terminals (multimedia kiosk terminals) installed by being connected to high-speed lines are becoming popular.

In a multimedia terminal, in addition to travel related services, food and daily necessities sales, gifts and mobile phone sales, ticket sales, book sales, car sales intermediation, etc., sales of music contents through a predetermined site connected to the Internet. Alternatively, it is known that video contents such as CD and DVD software can be sold. However, in order to rent contents for less than the amount sold, it is necessary to first verify the identity of the person who wants to lend, as described above, based on the credit information of the lender, as described above. Since it is necessary to manage the loan period and manage the loan period (plus overdue processing), it has not been possible to rent content with multimedia terminals.

[0016]

As described above, when a person who wants to lend out borrows the video contents, as described above, he / she always visits a video rental shop near his home, which has a low probability. It is necessary to view the video content through the steps (1) to (6), and when the video content has been viewed, go to the video rental shop again and perform the steps (7) to (9). was there. That is, the lender has to go to a video rental shop, which has a high probability of being located in a remote place, twice when renting and returning video contents.

Most of the products displayed in the video rental shops are analog recording type cassettes, and the high quality digital recording type (DV etc.) cassettes which have recently become popular are displayed as a product composition. It is not displayed, or is few even if it is displayed, and it is unlikely that the desired content will be found.

Since it has become possible to reproduce on a game machine in recent years, a DVD reproducing device has rapidly spread to each home.
Since the number of DVDs of video contents displayed in a video rental shop is very small compared to the amount of analog type cassettes displayed, the probability that a customer can rent a DVD is not very high.

In the video rental shop, if the displayed video contents were rented, even if a lender wishing to rent the same video contents came, it could not be lent. Further, if the video content desired by the lender does not exist in the video rental shop, the lender has no choice but to give up lending. In other words, in the above case, the applicant for lending is disappointed, and the video rental shop has missed a business opportunity.

Further, when renting a video content at a video rental shop, a person who wants to lend out must always bring the package of the video content to the reception counter, and the receptionist at the shop side confirms the title and the like and confirms the registration device. For example, if the person who wants to lend out wants to borrow a work that is 18 years or older and the receptionist at the shop side is the opposite sex, the person who wants to lend the loan You may hesitate and give up,
As a video rental shop, there were cases where business opportunities were missed.

The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems, in which a person who wishes to lend a video content quickly and quickly by using a multimedia terminal.
Moreover, it is an object of the present invention to provide a lending management method that enables reliable lending.

[0022]

In order to achieve the above object, a lending management method of video contents using a multimedia terminal of the present invention according to claim 1 is a lending for storing at least lending information of video contents. An information file, a video content file that stores video content for lending, and a customer information file that stores at least the address, name, contact information, membership number, and password of the applicant for lending registered in advance based on the official documents. Using a video lending management center including a video content lending server having a video content lending server, and a multimedia terminal connected to the video lending management center by a high-speed communication line and capable of writing to a storage medium for lending video contents. Allows repeated writing of downloaded video contents A rental management method renting written to Do storage medium, the video rental management center,
A step of confirming that the membership number and the password of the loan applicant input from the multimedia terminal match the content registered in advance; a step of outputting the video content lending menu by the multimedia terminal;
The multimedia terminal transmits at least the title of the video content selected from the lending menu to the video lending management center, and the video lending management center reads the selected video content from the video content file and sends it out. And a step in which the multimedia terminal writes the received video content to a rewritable storage medium.

Further, the present invention of claim 2 is the storage medium in which the multimedia terminal can repeatedly write the received video content in the video content lending management method using the multimedia terminal according to claim 1. When writing to, a flag indicating that it is a video for lending,
It has a step of writing management information about a person ID indicating the identity of the lender, a video ID indicating the content of the video content, a lending date, and a lending period in a storage medium.

Further, the present invention of claim 3 is the video content lending management method using the multimedia terminal according to claim 2, wherein the video playback device used by the lender can determine the management information. If the video playback device has a timekeeping function and an alarm function to the lender, an alarm to notify that the lending period is about to expire before the lending period ends based on the management information. It has a step of generating.

Further, the present invention of claim 4 is the video content lending management method using the multimedia terminal according to claim 2, wherein the video playback device used by the lender can determine the management information. , When it has a timekeeping function and a playback stop function after the loan deadline,
The video reproducing device is characterized by having a step of stopping the reproduction of the video content when the video reproducing device determines that the lending date obtained from the management information is exceeded.

The present invention according to claim 5 is the method for managing rental of video contents using the multimedia terminal according to claim 1, wherein the video rental management center can settle with a financial institution by using a communication line. When the video lending management center receives the title of the selected video content, the video lending management center performs a payment corresponding to the title of the video content.

Further, the present invention of claim 6 is the method of renting out video contents using the multimedia terminal according to claim 1, wherein the video renting management center further rents out past video contents. If the loan requester has a customer information file that stores the information of the lender whose number exceeds the limit, and the applicant for loan is registered in the customer information file that requires attention, the multimedia terminal outputs the message of the overdue caution before lending. It is characterized by

The present invention of claim 7 is the video content lending management method using the multimedia terminal according to claim 1, wherein the video lending management center cannot lend at present. If the multimedia terminal has a reservation file that can accept reservations for titles of video contents that have been announced to be available for rent in the future, and a multimedia terminal outputs a reservation menu and enables reservation input And if the reserved video content becomes available for lending,
The video lending management center has a step of automatically transmitting the reserved video content to the multimedia terminal, and the multimedia terminal has a step of transferring the received reserved video content to a storage medium. And

Further, the present invention of claim 8 is the video content lending management method using the multimedia terminal according to claim 1, wherein the multimedia terminal outputs a menu for return and inputs for return. If possible, the multimedia terminal shall have a step of confirming the overdue to the video lending management center and, if there is an overdue, performing a settlement of the late fee by the multimedia terminal. Characterize.

The present invention according to claim 9 is the method for managing lending of video contents using the multimedia terminal according to claim 4, wherein the multimedia terminal outputs a menu for return and inputs for return. If possible, the multimedia terminal confirms the overdue with the video lending management center, and if there is overdue, the video lending management center uses the settlement gateway to settle the overdue charge. It is characterized by having steps to carry out.

In the tenth aspect of the present invention, it has been confirmed that there is no arrears on the returned storage medium in the video content lending management method using the multimedia terminal according to the second aspect. In this case, the multimedia terminal has a step of erasing at least the management information about the lender from the storage medium.

The present invention according to claim 11 is the method for managing rental of video contents using the multimedia terminal according to claim 1, wherein when registering as a member in advance in the customer information file of the video rental management center, If an information storage card that stores the address, name, contact information, member number and password of the loan applicant stored in the customer information file is issued, enter the loan applicant member number and password from the multimedia terminal. At this time, it is characterized in that the information is input by reading the information from the information storage card.

Further, the present invention of claim 12 is the video content lending management method using the multimedia terminal according to claim 1, wherein the video lending management center creates a predetermined video content by using the lending information file. In the case of controlling the lending quantity, the video lending management center is characterized in that the lending video content is generated in the form of a list of data and sent out for display on the multimedia terminal.

The present invention of claim 13 is based on claim 1
In the lending management method of video contents using the multimedia terminal described in any one of 12, when the lender's e-mail address or telephone number is stored as management information in the customer information file, the video lending management is performed. Based on the management information, the center generates a return date notification email or a synthetic voice message to notify that the lending period is about to expire before the end of the lending period, and then creates the email address or telephone number of the lender. Characterized in that it has a step of transmitting to.

The present invention of claim 14 is based on claim 1
In the lending management method of video contents using the multimedia terminal described in any one of 12, when the lender's e-mail address or telephone number is stored as management information in the customer information file, the video lending management is performed. The center generates a return reminder e-mail or a synthetic voice message notifying that the loan period has expired and that the loan will be overdue if the loan is not returned even after the loan period expires. Characterized in that it comprises the step of sending to the lender's e-mail address or telephone number.

Further, a rental management method of video contents using the multimedia terminal according to claim 15 is as follows:
At least the address, name, contact information, and electronic information of the lending information file that stores the lending information of the video content, the video content file that stores the lending video content, and the lending applicant who has registered beforehand based on the official documents. It is equipped with a video content lending server having a customer information file storing an e-mail address, a member number and a password, and can output a lending reservation menu screen that can be displayed on a browser screen of a personal computer or a mobile phone connected to the Internet. A video lending management center, a multimedia terminal which is connected to the video lending management center by a high-speed communication line, and which can be written in a storage medium for lending video contents, and a personal computer which can be connected to the Internet owned by the applicant for lending. Ko A lending management method of writing downloaded video content to a rewritable storage medium and lending it by using a computer or a mobile phone. A lending request input from a personal computer or a mobile phone at a video lending management center. Confirming that the member number and password of the person corresponding to the contents registered in advance are output from the video lending management center via the Internet to the personal computer or mobile phone. In the video lending management center, the step of accepting the lending reservation and the designation of the receiving place inputted from the personal computer or the mobile phone; and in the video lending management center, the multimedia device designated as the receiving place. A) Confirming that the member number and password of the loan applicant entered from the terminal match the contents registered in advance, and the multimedia terminal receives the reservation content of the loan applicant from the video loan management center. The outputting step, the video lending management center reading out the selected video content from the video content file and transmitting it, and the multimedia terminal writing the received video content in a rewritable storage medium. It is characterized by having.

The present invention of claim 16 provides the invention of claim 15
In the video content lending management method using a multimedia terminal described in, an alarm for the video playback device used by the lender to determine the management information and notify the lender that the lending period is about to expire. If it has a function or a playback stop function after the loan period expires and can be connected to a personal computer or mobile phone connected to the Internet, the personal computer or mobile phone requests the video rental management center to extend the deadline. And the video reproduction device changes the management information about the lending period written in the storage medium by the multimedia terminal in conformity with the extension period. To do.

The present invention of claim 17 is the same as claim 15 of the present invention.
In the video content lending management method using a multimedia terminal described in, an alarm for the video playback device used by the lender to determine the management information and notify the lender that the lending period is about to expire. If the device has a function or a playback stop function after the loan period expires, and it can be connected to a personal computer or mobile phone connected to the Internet, the personal computer or mobile phone requests the video lending management center to terminate the loan. And the end of lending is permitted, the video reproducing device erases the video content written in the storage medium by the multimedia terminal.

According to the method of managing lending of video contents using the multimedia terminal of the present invention as defined in claim 18, at least a lending information file for storing lending information of the video content and a lending video content are stored. A video content lending server having a video content file and a customer information file storing at least an address, a name, a contact number, a telephone number, a membership number and a password for a loan applicant who has already registered as a member based on an official document, and , A video lending management center equipped with a telephone reception system which is connected to a telephone line network and can output a voice for lending reservation by voice and is capable of voice recognition or telephone reception by a DTMF signal, and high-speed communication with the video lending management center Connected by line and renting video contents It is a lending management method in which a downloaded video content is repeatedly written in a writable storage medium and rented out by using a multimedia terminal that can be written in a storage medium to be used and a telephone device possessed by a lender. At the video lending management center,
A step to confirm that the member number and password of the loan applicant input from the telephone device match the contents registered in advance, and a menu for renting video contents by voice from the video lending management center via the telephone line. The steps of outputting to the telephone device, the step of accepting the designation of the lending reservation and the receiving place inputted from the telephone device in the video lending management center, and the input from the multimedia terminal designated as the receiving place in the video lending management center A step of confirming that the member number and password of the loan applicant who has been registered match the contents registered in advance, and a step of receiving the reservation content of the loan applicant from the video lending management center by the multimedia terminal and outputting it. Video Lending Management Center bids the selected video content. A step of reading is delivered from the content file, a multimedia terminal, characterized in that a step of writing the repetitive writable storage medium the received video content.

The present invention according to claim 19 provides the invention according to claim 18.
In the video content lending management method using a multimedia terminal described in, an alarm for the video playback device used by the lender to determine the management information and notify the lender that the lending period is about to expire. If the phone has a function or a function to stop playback after the loan period expires and is connectable to a telephone connected to the telephone line, the phone sends a request for extension of the period to the video lending management center and the period extension. Is permitted, the video playback device changes the management information about the lending period written in the storage medium by the multimedia terminal in conformity with the extension period.

The present invention according to claim 20 provides the invention according to claim 18.
In the video content lending management method using a multimedia terminal described in, an alarm for the video playback device used by the lender to determine the management information and notify the lender that the lending period is about to expire. If the device has a function or a function to stop playing after the loan period expires and is connectable to a telephone connected to the telephone line, the step of sending a loan end request to the video lending management center by the phone, If termination is permitted, the video playback device erases the video content written in the storage medium by the multimedia terminal.

The present invention of claim 21 is the same as claim 15 of the present invention.
20. In the rental management method of video contents using the multimedia terminal described in any one of 20 to 20, the video playback device used by the lender has a function of discriminating the management information and stopping the playback after the lending period, When the lender's e-mail address or telephone number is stored as management information in the customer information file, the video lending management center, based on the management information, before the end of the lending period,
The present invention is characterized by including a step of generating and transmitting a return date notification mail or a message with synthetic voice for notifying that the lending period is about to expire.

The present invention according to claim 22 provides the invention according to claim 15.
20. A video content lending management method using a multimedia terminal described in any one of 20 to 20, wherein the video playback device used by the lender has a playback stop function after the lending term by discriminating the management information. The information file contains
If the lender's e-mail address or telephone number is stored as management information, the video lending management center will notify you that the lending period has expired and will not be returned even if the lending period has expired. Has a step of generating and transmitting a return reminder email or a message with synthetic voice for notifying that a late charge will occur.

The present invention according to claim 23 is based on claim 22.
In the rental management method of video contents using the multimedia terminal described in, the video rental management center is
In addition, in the past renting of video contents, there is a sensitive customer information file that stores information of lenders whose loan deadline has expired, and if a candidate for lending is registered in the sensitive customer information file, video lending management The center is characterized by having a step of additionally generating and transmitting to the return reminder email that future lending may not be accepted.

The invention of claim 24 is based on claim 15 of the invention.
27. In the method of renting out video contents using a multimedia terminal according to any one of 1 to 17, the video renting management center can output a menu screen for extending the renting period that can be displayed on a browser screen of a personal computer or a mobile phone. In this case, the method is characterized by including the step of accepting an extension of the renting period of the video content rented to the renting candidate via the Internet using a personal computer or a mobile phone.

The present invention of claim 25 is based on claim 15 of the present invention.
20. In the method of renting out video content using a multimedia terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 20, the video renting management center receives the step of reading the selected video content from the video content file and sending it to the multimedia terminal. It is carried out before receiving the membership number and password of the loan applicant input from the multimedia terminal designated as the place, and the multimedia terminal receives the received video number as soon as the membership number and password of the loan applicant are confirmed. It has a step of writing the content in a storage medium for lending.

[0047]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION The present invention will be described below based on the illustrated embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a video reproducing apparatus capable of reproducing a video content cassette or disc mounted thereon, which is connected to a monitor apparatus 20 for displaying an image so that a lending applicant 7's home or office can operate. Alternatively, it is placed outdoors 70 or the like. A video lending management center 2 can lend video contents through a high-speed communication line. A multimedia terminal device 3 is installed in a store 80 such as a convenience store. 5 is a video lending management center 2
Is a high-speed communication line for communicatively connecting the multimedia terminal device 3 and

Further, 61 is a provider which provides a settlement service such as a credit card company or a provider which provides a relay service with a financial institution at the time of debit card settlement, and 62 is a video lending management center 2 and multimedia, for example. The owner of the terminal 3 or an operator of the terminal 3 or a person who wishes to lend a video content 7 is a financial institution such as a bank having a deposit account.

In the video lending management center 2, a video content lending server 22 which stores each file of the video content and creates a virtual store in the virtual space for lending in response to each input of the lending request, and the video content And a settlement gateway 23 for communicating settlement information at the time of lending with a settlement service provider or a financial institution. The video contents of the present embodiment are, for example, multimedia moving image files such as movies, animations, concerts, and the like.

The video contents lending server 22 has a function of accepting lending in response to an input of a lending request, a function of securing video contents to be lended, credit information of the lender 7 and input information, and lending application. It has a function of storing the associated video content name and the like, a function of transmitting the stored video content when the credit information and the desired video content name and the like are input from the multimedia terminal 3. Further, when accepting the loan of the video content, the video content lending server 22 confirms whether the cash settlement is completed at the multimedia terminal 3, and if the cash settlement is not desired, the lending applicant 7 makes the settlement. It has a function to check with a financial institution or a settlement-enabled provider to check if it is possible.

Therefore, the video content lending server 2
In FIG. 2, the input information of the loan applicant 7 and the video content etc. for which the loan application has been made are associated and stored as the video content lending information, and the locations of all the multimedia terminals 3 to which the video content can be sent out. The lending information file 31 that stores information and manages the lending amount and the payment for the lending application, and the lending applicant 7 who could not receive the desired video content due to the lending amount limit etc. Reservation file 32 for storing the contents reserved for lending, and contents reserved for lending the video contents before the start of lending, and video contents file 33 for storing the video contents for lending such as music, animation and video, and At least the address and Mr. of the customer (who wishes to lend) who has already registered as a member based on the documents , A customer information file 34 that stores credit information such as contact information, membership number and password, and information about bad customers such as customers who are overdue or have been urged to return from the past loan record. The customer information file 35 is provided.

The multimedia terminal 3 is installed in a store 80 such as a convenience store. The multimedia terminal 3 is a customer-operated terminal that can be directly operated by the applicant for lending 7, and is a display unit 41 such as a display screen, an input unit 42 such as a keyboard, a touch panel or a scanner, and the video content. Lending server 22
A storage unit 43 for storing various data necessary for communication with
A control unit 44 for controlling each unit of the multimedia terminal 3,
A card handling unit 45 for reading magnetic data, IC chip data, etc. written on a video lending member card, credit card or cash card of the lending applicant 7.
A cash handling unit 46 capable of accepting the input of banknotes or coins and discharging change and the like, a statement output unit 47 for outputting a receipt of the received amount of money, a title of video contents to be lent, catalog information, and the like, and storing the video contents. A rewritable storage medium (for example, VHS (analog) type video cassette, 8 mm (analog) type video cassette, 8 mm (digital) type video cassette, DV (digital) type video cassette, mini DV format video cassette, DVD
-A storage medium such as a slot into which a device (for example, a mobile phone device, a video device, a digital camera device, a personal computer, a game device, etc.) equipped with a storage medium (RAM, removable hard disk, etc.) or a storage medium is fitted or connected. And a section 48.

When the capacity of the video content is not so large, the storage medium is, for example, a mini disk = MD, smart media, compact flash (registered trademark), memory stick, CD-R, CD-.
Since the RW and the like can be used, the storage medium loading section 48 may be provided with a slot or the like into which they can be fitted.

The rewritable storage medium 120 may be brought in by the borrower 7 or may be prepared in a store 80 such as a convenience store.
For example, the video reproduction device 1 used by the lender applicant 7 is connected to a communication line or the like, and the management data of the video content 121 can be rewritten or erased by remote control from the video lending management center 2. In this case, a rewritable storage medium brought in by the lending applicant 7 can be used. When the video playback device 1 used by the lender 7 cannot be controlled remotely, the multimedia terminal 3 uses the rewritable storage medium 120 provided in the store 80 such as a convenience store to reproduce the video content. 121 is written and erased.

Further, in this embodiment, the loan applicant 7 is
I have a video lending member card 110 issued by presenting and registering a personally recognizable certificate such as a driver's license or insurance card at a rental video shop in advance. The video lending member card 110 stores information such as the personal ID number of the lending applicant 7 or the network address of the video lending management center by a magnetic stripe or an IC chip.

In the lending management method of video contents using the multimedia terminal of the present embodiment, distribution is performed according to each step shown in the operation image diagram of FIG. 2 by using the above configuration.

First, the video content lending applicant 7
As described above, the video lending member card 110 is issued in advance at the rental video shop or the like, and the user carries the video lending member card 110 and goes to the store 80 in which the multimedia terminal 3 is installed.

The lending applicant 7 uses the multimedia terminal 3 to access the video content lending server 22 in the video lending management center 2 connected to the high-speed communication line 3, and uses the video lending member card 110 to access the video content lending server 22. Enter the member number, password, etc. (S1). At this time, the video lending member card 110 may be inserted first and the card information may be used to connect to the video content lending server 22 in the video lending management center 2. By this input, it is confirmed between the multimedia terminal 3 and the video content lending server 22 that the loan applicant 7 is a member by referring to the input content and the customer information file 34 (CS1). Further, for example, when the reservation of the video content is registered by the member number, the reservation content is displayed so that it can be output.

Next, the loan applicant 7 selects the desired video content by selecting a video content menu from the display on the display unit 41 of the multimedia terminal 3 or by inputting search conditions. Select a menu (S2). At this time, between the multimedia terminal 3 and the video content lending server 22, transmission / reception of a menu and transmission / reception of the menu of the video content file 33 and the menu of the selection result are performed based on the input contents such as the search condition. (CS2). In this case, the menu information and the video content may be held in advance in the multimedia terminal 3 and the held menu information may be displayed.

When the video lending management center 2 uses the lending information file 31 to control the lending quantity of a predetermined video content, for example, the video lending management center 2 can lend the available video content. Is generated in the form of a list and transmitted for display on the multimedia terminal 3. Alternatively, it is possible to send the data of the list in which “O” mark is added to the rentable video contents and “X” mark is added to the rentable video contents.

The loan applicant 7 inputs the title of the desired video content or its ID number from the video content menu displayed on the display unit 41.
The rentable period of the video content is displayed, and the period is confirmed (S3). In addition, within the period, the lending applicant 7 is the input unit 4 of the multimedia terminal 3 next.
2 is operated to input a desired lending period (S4), the storage medium 120 is attached to the storage medium attachment portion 48 of the multimedia terminal 3 (in the case of a device having a storage medium, connected), and the storage medium Confirm that 120 is recognizable by the multimedia terminal 3 and that there is a free space larger than the capacity of the video content (S
5) Pay the price according to the lending period of the video content (S6).

In step S6 of this payment (payment), the lending applicant 7 uses the cash handling unit 46 of the multimedia terminal 3 for cash payment, or uses the settlement gateway 23 on the video lending management center 2 side. It is possible to select whether to perform card settlement (MS1) by communicating with the settlement provider 61 or the financial institution 62. In any case, from the multimedia terminal 3 to the video content lending server 22, a notification of the lending details and a payment notification (cash payment completion or card payment request) are sent (CS3), and the video content lending server 22 sends the multimedia contents. The media terminal 3 is notified of the settlement result (acceptance of cash settlement completion or card settlement completion) (CS4).

When the settlement is completed, the video content lending server 22 delivers the video content to be rented to the multimedia terminal 3 (CS5), and the multimedia terminal 3 receives the video content (S5).
7) is stored in the storage unit 43.

In the multimedia terminal 3, first, the management information is recorded in the storage medium 120 (S8), and then the video content 121 is transferred from the storage unit 43 (S).
9). When the transfer is completed, the multimedia terminal 3 ejects the storage medium 120 from the storage medium mounting unit 48 (S1).
0). In this way, the processing for lending the video content 121 is completed, and the lending processing completion notification is transmitted from the multimedia terminal 3 to the video content lending server 22 (CS6).

If the lender applicant 7 wants to reserve the lending of the next video content, the reservation acceptance process can be executed at the completion of the lending process (S11).
In that case, along with the (CS6) lending processing completion notification,
The reservation content is transmitted from the multimedia terminal 3 to the video content lending server 22.

The loan applicant 7 who has received the storage medium 120 on which the video contents 121 are recorded is
Alternatively, it is loaded into the video playback device 1 of 70 outdoors (S3
1), the video content 121 is reproduced (S3)
3). The loan applicant 7 who has finished watching the video content 121 takes out the storage medium 120 from the video reproducing apparatus 1 and stores the storage medium 120 together with the video lending member card 110.
And go again to the store 80 where the multimedia terminal 3 is installed.

The loan applicant 7 uses the multimedia terminal 3 to perform the process of (S1), then selects a return menu (S51), and inserts the storage medium 120 into the storage medium mounting portion 48. . The multimedia terminal 3 checks the management information of the storage medium 120 with the contents of the lending information file 31 (S52). At this time, the multimedia terminal 3
And the video content lending server 22 transmit and receive a confirmation signal regarding overdue (CS17).

If there is arrears, the multimedia terminal 3 clears the arrears charges based on the management information and the like (S53). When the late charge is settled, the multimedia terminal 3 erases the video content in the storage medium 120 (S54). At this time, the multimedia terminal 3 notifies the video content lending server 22 that the return processing is completed (CS18).

Also, the overdue settlement in step S53 may be carried out in cash using the cash handling section 46 of the multimedia terminal 3, or card settlement using the settlement gateway 23 on the video lending management center 2 side. Implementation (MS
1) May be done.

As described above, in this embodiment, since the multimedia lending terminal 3 is controlled by the video lending management center, the lender wishes to borrow the video content quickly and surely by using the multimedia lending terminal. be able to. In addition, in the present embodiment, it is not necessary to record the video content on the recording medium and display it in advance, so that it is possible to reduce the management and maintenance cost, the display space, and the like, and it is possible to reduce the total cost. Further, in the present embodiment, even if the lending applicant 7 goes to the shop to borrow the desired video content, there is no situation in which there is no desired video content, or the loan cannot be borrowed during lending. Further, in the present embodiment, it becomes unnecessary for the lender 7 to go to a video rental shop located in a distant place in order to rent a desired video content, and the video content can be rented at a multimedia terminal of a nearby convenience store. .

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a video reproducing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is an operation image diagram of the second embodiment.

The second embodiment has the same configuration as that of the first embodiment except for the video reproducing apparatus 1 shown in FIG.

The video reproducing apparatus 1 shown in FIG.
0, a video playback unit 201 that plays back management information and video content recorded in 0 to output to the monitor device 20, a control unit 202 that controls video playback processing in the video playback unit 201, and a timekeeping function that has a calendar function and a timer function. It has a unit 203 and an alarm generation unit 204 capable of generating an image output or a sound output of a caution or a warning about the loan period.

In the control unit 202, a management information recognizing unit 210 for individually recognizing each information from the management information reproduced from the recording medium 120, and a lending period from the recognized management information, or a lending period A lending period determination unit 220 that determines whether the end of the period is near or the lending period has expired,
A reproduction stop control unit 2 for stopping the reproduction of the video content in the video reproduction unit 201 when the rental period is exceeded.
30 and 30.

Further, in the management information recognition section 210, a rental flag recognition section 211 indicating that the content is a video content for lending, and a lender who recognizes the lender ID registered in the membership card of the lending applicant 7. An ID recognition unit 212,
Video ID such as unique name that can identify the video content
, A lending date recognition unit 214 that recognizes the date when the lending applicant 7 starts lending the video content 121, and a lending period that recognizes the lending period of the video content 121 to the lending applicant 7. Period recognition unit 215
And an erasability flag recognition unit 216 that recognizes whether or not the video content can be erased. In addition to the lending period, the permitted number of times of reproduction may be set.

For the purpose of confirming the validity of the user, the card handling unit 205 that reads the member card information, and the information read by the card handling unit 205 and the lender ID recognition unit 212, if necessary. It may be configured to include the lender determination unit 240 that compares the information items and determines whether they match.

As the operation of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the operation of steps S1 to S11 and the operation of S51 to S54 in FIG. 2 are the same, but after step S31 is completed, the video An operation for determining management information is added to the playback device 1 (S32), and after the management information is determined, the video content 121 is played back.

For example, when the lending time limit judging unit 220 recognizes that the lending time limit is about to expire, the lending time limit judging unit 220 outputs an alarm generation instruction to the alarm generating unit 204 and monitors it. An alarm is displayed on the screen or the like of the device 20, or voice synthesis or the like is used to notify that the loan period is about to expire.

When the lending time limit judging unit 220 recognizes that the lending time limit has expired, the lending time limit judging unit 220 outputs, for example, a reproduction stop instruction to the reproduction stop control unit 230, and the video is stopped. The reproduction output of the video content 121 is prevented from being output from the reproduction unit 201.

In this way, in this embodiment, the video reproducing apparatus 1 is provided with the function of managing the lending period.
In addition to the effects shown in the first embodiment, by issuing an alarm, it is possible to reduce the overdue of the loan period, and it is possible to suppress unauthorized viewing after the expiration of the period. Further, since it is possible to prevent the video content 121 from being viewed after the expiration of the deadline, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of arrears due to the carelessness of the loan applicant 7, for example.

In each of the above embodiments, the loan applicant 7
For example, by going to a store 80 or the like which is a convenience store and operating the multimedia terminal 3 there, first, the desired video content is downloaded from the video lending management center 2 and stored in the multimedia terminal. The video content is transcribed to the storage medium 120.

However, although the video lending management center 2 and the multimedia terminal 3 are connected by the high-speed communication line 5, the amount of video content information is generally large, so that it takes time to download. Therefore, in the following embodiments, by making a reservation at the video lending management center 2 from a personal computer or a mobile phone device at home, the time required for the lending applicant to move to the multimedia terminal is effectively utilized and the multimedia terminal is preliminarily used. 3 downloads the video content, and after the lending applicant 7 goes to the store 80, the video content 12
The processing time is only required to transfer 1 to the storage medium 120.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is an operation image diagram of the third embodiment.

In the third embodiment, a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a PC) having a browser 102 capable of displaying HTML images and characters in the home / company / outdoor 70 and connecting to the Internet is provided. Alternatively, it has a mobile phone 101. The PC or mobile phone 101 is connected to the Internet 4. In the present embodiment, the PC or mobile phone 101
However, this may be any type of information terminal as long as it can be connected to the Internet. For example, it may be built in the video playback device 1 or a set connected to home electric appliances. It may be a top box.

On the other hand, in the video lending management center 2, when connecting the video content lending server 22 to the Internet 4, a firewall 21 is installed which prevents unauthorized access from the Internet 4 and passes only appropriate access. It Further, for example, a management program for the Internet is added to the lending information file 31, and an HTML menu is added to the video content file 33. In addition, the lending information file 31
As a management program of, for example, a program for sending at least a code (reservation ID code or the like) capable of recognizing the reserved video content and the loan applicant 7 to the loan applicant 7 or a reservation ID code It is a program for associating and storing the location information of the desired multimedia terminal and the reserved video content.

If payment can also be selected using the PC or the mobile phone 101, for example, the credit information and the input information of the loan applicant 7 can also be set in the management program.
The reservation ID code can be stored in association with it. Other configurations are similar to those of the first embodiment.

As the operation of the third embodiment, a step of making a reservation by using the PC of the home / company / outdoor 70 or the mobile phone 101 is added in advance. First, the video lending management center 2 is called by the PC or the mobile phone 101 via the Internet 4, and, for example, the membership card 1
The member number and password described in 10 are input (S61). Next, the loan applicant 7 selects a desired video content by selecting a video content menu from the display on the display unit of the PC or the mobile phone 101 by the browser 102 or inputting a search condition to search. A menu is selected (S62). In this case,
Between the PC or mobile phone 101 and the video content lending server 22, transmission / reception of menus and menu search in the video content file 33 and transmission / reception of menus of selection results are performed based on input contents such as search conditions (CS22). .

The loan applicant 7 inputs the title of the desired video content or the ID number of the desired video content from the menu of the video content displayed on the display section, and the lending period of the video content is displayed.
The period is confirmed (S63). When the allowable number of times of reproduction is designated, the number of times is also displayed. Next, the lending applicant 7 operates the PC or the mobile phone 101 to input the period for which lending is desired and the location information of the multimedia terminal for which lending is desired (S64). At this time, PC
Alternatively, the mobile phone 101 transmits a reservation notice including the rental contents and the receiving place notification to the video content lending server 22 (CS23), and the video content lending server 22 sends the video content lending server 22 to the PC or the mobile phone 101. Then, a reservation acceptance notification indicating that the reservation data is stored in the lending information file 31 is transmitted together with the reservation password (CS24).

In the store 80, first, step S
When entering the password of 1, also enter the reservation password. Then, the reservation content is displayed on the display unit 41 of the multimedia terminal 3, and the loan applicant 7 confirms the content.

Next, the first embodiment and steps S1 to S will be described.
Of steps 11 to 11, steps S2 to S4 are eliminated, and instead, step S67 for allowing the lender applicant 7 to confirm the reservation content on the multimedia terminal 3 is entered. In addition, step S0 of preliminarily delivering the reserved video content together with the reservation details is inserted by effectively utilizing the time during which the lender applicant 7 moves from the home / company / outdoor 70 to the store 80. The step CS2 of menu search by the multimedia terminal 3 is eliminated, and the step CS5 of distributing the video content other than the reservation (selected by the multimedia terminal 3) is also eliminated.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the loan applicant 7
The video content lending server 22 sends out the video content requested for lending to the multimedia terminal 3 by effectively using the time until the multimedia terminal 3 arrives at the multimedia terminal 3, and the lending applicant 7 sends the multimedia content to the multimedia terminal 3. After the arrival, since the trouble of communicating between the multimedia terminal 3 and the video content lending server 22 has been eliminated, the processing time required for the download after the lending applicant 7 arrives at the multimedia terminal 3 is deleted. be able to.

Although the Internet 4 is rapidly spreading, there are cases where the Internet connection environment is not yet set up in the home, office, outdoors, etc. 70.
An embodiment will be described below in the case where the distribution of video contents is reserved by using a telephone that is prevalent in most homes and workplaces.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the fourth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is an operation image diagram of the fourth embodiment.

The telephone 130 shown in FIG. 7 replaces the PC or the mobile telephone 101 shown in FIG.
5 is an alternative to the Internet 4 in FIG. 5, and the telephone reception system 140 is an alternative to the firewall 21 in FIG. In addition, the telephone reception system 140 uses the telephone's voice or DTMF.
(Dual Tone Multi Frequency) It is assumed to have an optional function for telephone reception that can recognize and receive signals.
Further, since the contents of the video contents cannot be displayed on the telephone, it is assumed that the contents of each video contents and its ID number (order number) are printed in advance in a pamphlet or the like. Other configurations are similar to those of the third embodiment.

In the operation of the fourth embodiment, steps S61 to S64 executed by the PC or mobile phone 101 in the third embodiment are replaced by steps S71 to S74 executed by the telephone 130. In the third embodiment, CS21 to CS implemented between the PC or mobile phone 101 and the video content lending server 22.
24 is a telephone 130 and a video content lending server 22.
It replaces CS41 to CS44 implemented between Therefore, the exchanged signal is also changed from the HTML signal to the voice signal.

As described above, in the present embodiment, since the video contents can be reserved by the telephone 130, even if the person who does not have a PC or a mobile phone connected to the Internet, the lending applicant 7 is the multimedia terminal 3
The processing time required for downloading after arriving at can be deleted.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the case where the lender applicant 7 borrows the desired video content using the multimedia terminal 3 has been described. In addition to overdue settlement, there are cases where processing is performed to extend the loan deadline, and it is necessary to take measures in the case of extension of the loan deadline.
Therefore, in the following embodiment, a process performed by the loan applicant 7 at the multimedia terminal 3 when the overdue occurs and the term is extended will be described.

FIG. 9 is an operation image diagram of the fifth embodiment of the present invention. The overall configuration of this embodiment is similar to that of FIG.

The lender applicant 7 accesses the video content lending server 22 in the video lending management center 2 connected to the high-speed communication line 3 by using the multimedia terminal 3 as in the case of the first lending, and lends the video. Membership card 1
Use 10 to enter your own membership number and password (S1). By this input, it is confirmed between the multimedia terminal 3 and the video content lending server 22 that the lending applicant 7 is a member by referring to the input content and the customer information file 34 (CS51).

Next, the lending applicant 7 selects a menu for extending the lending term of the borrowed video content by selecting the menu of the video content from the display on the display unit 41 of the multimedia terminal 3. (S8
2). At this time, the multimedia terminal 3 sends to the video content lending server 22 a request to extend the lending time limit of the borrowed video content (add the number of times when the permitted number of playbacks is set). (CS5
2) On the contrary, a response of permission for the extension request is transmitted from the video content lending server 22 to the multimedia terminal 3 together with the late payment payment instruction and the extension permission content (CS53).

The loan applicant 7 loads the storage medium 120 into the storage medium mounting unit 48 according to the instruction displayed on the display unit 41 (S83), and inputs the desired extension deadline request content according to the extension permission content. (S84), the late payment is settled (S85).

[0104] The multimedia terminal 3 transmits a settlement content notification (cash settlement completion or card settlement request) to the video content lending server 22 (CS53), and the video content lending server 22 sends the settlement result to the multimedia terminal 3. Is sent (CS54).

The multimedia terminal 3 records the updated management information in the storage medium 120 according to the extension permission content and the input content of the lending applicant 7 (S86), and ejects the storage medium 120 from the storage medium mounting portion 48 ( Along with S10), the fact that the term extension processing has been completed is sent to the video content lending server 22 together with the term extension content (CS56).

In this way, in the present embodiment, the lending applicant 7 can use the multimedia terminal 3 to extend the lending time limit of the video content being rented.

Further, in the fifth embodiment, in order to extend the lending time limit of the video content being rented, the lending applicant 7 has to go to the store 80 in which the multimedia terminal 3 is installed. For example, at home, office, outdoors, etc. 70 PC or mobile phone 101 or telephone 13
If the time limit can be extended by 0, the loan applicant 7 does not need to go to the store 80.

Therefore, in the following embodiment, a process performed by the loan applicant 7 on the PC of the home / company / outdoor 70 or the mobile phone 101 or the phone 130 when the deadline is extended and the deadline is extended will be described. To do.

FIG. 10 is an operation image diagram of the sixth embodiment of the present invention. The overall configuration of this embodiment is the same as that of FIG. 5 or 7.

The video lending management center 2 is called via the Internet 4 by the PC, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130, and the membership number or password written on the membership card 110 is input (S1).
Next, the loan applicant 7 confirms the menu by using the PC, the mobile phone 101, or the telephone 130, and selects the menu for extension of term (S92). In this selection, for example, the selection may be made by inputting a menu code. In this case, PC or mobile phone 101
Alternatively, the telephone 130 and the video content lending server 22
Confirm that the loan applicant 7 is a member (C
S61), and the menu search and menu extension / reduction menu transmission / reception are performed (CS62).

The loan applicant 7 inputs the extension request content from the term extension menu (S93). At this time, PC
Alternatively, a request for extension of time limit is transmitted from the mobile phone 101 or the phone 130 to the video content lending server 22 (CS63), and a response to the time limit extension is sent from the video content lending server 22 to the PC or the mobile phone 101 or phone 130. It is transmitted together with the instruction (CS64).

A loan request for the extension fee is transmitted from the PC or the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 to the video content lending server 22 (CS65), and the video content lending server 22 sends to the PC, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130. The communication about the loan result (extension permission code) and the setting code or encryption code for changing the term extension are transmitted, and the communication is terminated (CS66).

The loan applicant 7 who has received the extension permission loads the storage medium 120 into the video reproducing apparatus 1 at home, office, outdoors, etc. 70 and inputs the setting code or the encryption code (S31). After being determined (S32) and updated according to the extension response (S38), the video content 121 is reproduced (S33).

As described above, in this embodiment, when the overdue occurs and the deadline is extended, the loan applicant 7 is
It can be carried out on a PC such as the outdoors 70, a mobile phone 101 or a phone 130.

In the sixth embodiment, the home / company / company /
A person who wishes to rent 7 by making it possible to extend the term by using a PC such as the outdoors 70, a mobile phone 101, or a phone 130.
Although it is no longer necessary to go to the store 80, it is more convenient for the loan applicant 7 if the overdue settlement can be done by the PC, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130.

Therefore, in the following embodiment, a description will be given of the processing carried out by the loan applicant 7 on the PC at the home / company / outdoor 70 or the mobile phone 101 or the phone 130 when the overdue payment is made and the payment is cleared. To do.

FIG. 11 is an operation image diagram of the seventh embodiment of the present invention. The overall configuration of this embodiment is the same as that of FIG. 5 or 7.

When the loan applicant 7 loads the storage medium 120 into the video reproducing apparatus 1 at home, office, outdoors, etc. 70 (S31), the management information is determined (S32). Next, the video content 121 is set to be erasable or unreproducible by performing an operation of erasing or reproducing the video content (S39). When the erasing of the content or the setting of reproduction prohibition is completed, the lending completion code or the encryption code is displayed on the screen of the monitor device 20 or the display panel section of the video reproduction device 1 (S4
0).

Next, the video lending management center 2 is called by the PC, the mobile phone 101, or the telephone 130 via the Internet 4, and, for example, the membership card 11
The membership number and password described in 0 are entered (S
1). Next, the loan applicant 7 is a PC or a mobile phone 1.
01 or confirm the menu by telephone 130, and select the lending end menu (S102). In this selection, for example, the selection may be made by inputting a menu code. At this time, between the PC or the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 and the video content lending server 22, it is confirmed that the lender applicant 7 is a member (CS71), and the end of lending the menu search and the selection result. The menu is sent and received (CS7
2).

The lending applicant 7 inputs the lending completion code or the encryption code and the contents of the lending end due to overdue settlement from the lending end menu (S103). At this time, P
The request for renting is sent from C or the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 to the video content lending server 22 (CS73), and the response to the renting is overdue from the video content lending server 22 to the PC, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130. It is transmitted together with the payment instruction (CS74).

A loan request for the extension fee is transmitted from the PC, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 to the video content lending server 22 (CS75). From the video content lending server 22 to the PC, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130, a notification (lending completion) of the lending result is transmitted (CS76).

As described above, in this embodiment, when a loan is overdue and the loan is to be ended by clearing the overdue payment, the loan applicant 7 has a PC or mobile phone 1 at home, office, outdoors 70 or the like.
01 or telephone 130, so
It becomes more convenient because the lender 7 does not have to go to the store 80.

Further, in the sixth embodiment, it is necessary to manually input the setting code or the encryption code for changing the extension to the video reproducing apparatus 1 in order to extend the lending term of the video content being rented. However, for example,
Home / Company / Outdoor 70 PCs or mobile phones 101
Alternatively, if the telephone 130 and the video reproducing apparatus 1 are connected so that they can be interlocked with each other, the loan applicant 7 does not need to manually input.

Therefore, in the following embodiment, when the overdue occurs and the deadline is extended, the lender 7 is connected to the video playback apparatus 1 at a home / company / outdoor 70 PC or mobile phone 101. Alternatively, a process performed by the telephone 130 will be described.

FIG. 12 is an operation image diagram of the eighth embodiment of the present invention. The overall configuration of this embodiment is the same as that of FIG. 5 or 7.

[0126] The video lending management center 2 is called by the PC, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 via the Internet 4, and, for example, the membership number or password written on the membership card 110 is input (S1).
Next, the loan applicant 7 confirms the menu by using the PC, the mobile phone 101, or the telephone 130, selects the menu for extension of the term, or inputs the menu code (S92). In this selection, for example, the selection may be made by inputting a menu code. At this time, between the PC or the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 and the video content lending server 22, it is confirmed that the loan applicant 7 is a member (CS61), and the menu search and the extension of the selection result are extended. The menu is transmitted / received (CS62).

[0127] The loan applicant 7 inputs the extension request content from the term extension menu (S93). At this time, PC
Alternatively, a request for extension of time limit is transmitted from the mobile phone 101 or the phone 130 to the video content lending server 22 (CS63), and a response to the time limit extension is sent from the video content lending server 22 to the PC or the mobile phone 101 or phone 130. It is transmitted together with the instruction (CS64).

A loan request for the extension fee is transmitted from the PC or the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 to the video content lending server 22 (CS65), and the video content lending server 22 sends the PC or the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 to the video content lending server 22. A communication (extension permission code) about the loan result is sent and the communication ends (CS
66a).

When the loan applicant 7 who has received the extension permission loads the storage medium 120 into the video reproducing apparatus 1 at home, office, or outdoors 70 (S31a), the management information is determined (S32a). After the extension permission code of the video playback device 1 to which the PC, the mobile phone 101, or the telephone 130 is connected is transmitted, and the information on the expiration date is updated according to the extension permission code by the video playback device 1 (S38a), the video content is displayed. 121 is reproduced (S33). The fact that the change of the management information by the term extension processing is completed is sent to the video content lending server 22 together with the term extension content (CS67).

It should be noted that the storage medium 120 is added to the video reproducing device 1.
When the management information of the video content 121 is loaded and the lending time limit is exceeded, a message asking whether to request the time limit extension is displayed on the monitor device 20 or the like, and the request for the time limit extension is displayed. When the implementation is selected, the video content lending server 22 is connected via the PC, the mobile phone 101, or the telephone 130, and the management information of the video content 121 is automatically sent to the video content lending server 22. The lending term may be extended in the same manner as above.

As described above, in this embodiment, when the overdue occurs and the deadline is extended, the loan applicant 7 is
It can be carried out on the PC such as the outdoors 70, the mobile phone 101 or the phone 130, and the video playback device 1
Can confirm the processing up to the renewal of the lending period.

In the eighth embodiment, the home / company / company /
The expiration date can be extended by linking the PC or mobile phone 101 or the phone 130 of the outdoors 70 with the video playback device 1 so that the loan applicant 7 does not have to go to the store 80 and the manual work is eliminated. However, if the delinquency settlement can be performed by linking the PC or the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 with the video reproducing apparatus 1, it is more convenient for the loan applicant 7.

Therefore, in the following embodiments, when the overdue occurs and the overdue settlement is performed, the lender applicant 7 uses the PC of the home / company / outdoor 70, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130, and the video playback device 1. The processing executed in cooperation with is described.

FIG. 13 is an operation image diagram of the ninth embodiment of the present invention. The overall configuration of this embodiment is the same as that of FIG. 5 or 7.

The video lending management center 2 is called via the Internet 4 by the PC, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130, and, for example, the membership number or password written on the membership card 110 is input (S1).
Next, the lending applicant 7 confirms the menu by using the PC, the mobile phone 101, or the telephone 130, and selects the lending end menu or the menu code (S).
102). In this selection, for example, the selection may be made by inputting a menu code. At this time, between the PC or the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 and the video content lending server 22, it is confirmed that the lender applicant 7 is a member (CS71), and the end of lending of the menu search and the selection result is completed. The menu is transmitted / received (CS72).

The lending applicant 7 inputs the lending completion code or the encryption code and the contents of the lending end due to overdue settlement from the lending end menu (S103). At this time, P
The request for renting is sent from C or the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 to the video content lending server 22 (CS73), and the response to the renting is overdue from the video content lending server 22 to the PC, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130. It is transmitted together with the payment instruction (CS74).

A loan request for the extension fee is transmitted from the PC, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130 to the video content lending server 22 (CS75). From the video content lending server 22 to the PC, the mobile phone 101 or the telephone 130, a contact (lending end code) about the loan result is transmitted (CS76).

Lending applicant 7 who received the lending end code
However, when the storage medium 120 is loaded into the video reproducing device 1 such as 70 at home, office, or outdoors (S31a), the management information is determined (S32a). PC or mobile phone 1
01 or the lending end code is transmitted to the video reproducing device 1 to which the telephone 130 is connected, and the video reproducing device 1 updates the management information according to the lending end code (S38b), and then the video content 121 is erased ( S39). The fact that the management information has been changed and the video contents have been erased by the lending ending process is sent to the video contents lending server 22 (CS77).

It should be noted that the storage medium 120 is added to the video reproducing device 1.
When the management information of the video content 121 is loaded and the lending time limit is exceeded, a message is displayed on the monitor device 20 or the like as to whether or not the lending is terminated,
When the end of lending is selected, the video content lending server 22 is connected via the PC, the mobile phone 101, or the telephone 130, and the video content 12
1 management information automatically video content lending server 2
Alternatively, the lending may be terminated in the same manner as above.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when a loan is overdue and the loan is ended by clearing the overdue payment, the loan applicant 7 has a PC or mobile phone 1 at home, office, outdoors, etc. 70.
01 or telephone 130, so
The lender 7 does not have to go to the store 80, which is more convenient. Further, since it is possible to confirm that the video content has been erased on the video reproducing device, the lending applicant 7 can be relieved.

In each of the above embodiments, the video lending management center 2 side holds the video content, but for example, the multimedia terminal 3 side holds the video content and applies to each of the above embodiments. You can Further, in the case where the video playback device has the management function, the video content recorded on the storage medium may be played after the expiration date of the loan or when the allowed playback count is set. Alternatively, the video reproducing apparatus may be automatically deleted after the reproduction.

[0142]

As described above, according to the present invention, since the multimedia terminal 3 is controlled by the video lending management center, the lender wishes to use the multimedia terminal to quickly and quickly obtain the video contents. , You can definitely borrow. In addition, in the present embodiment, it is not necessary to record the video content on the recording medium and display it in advance, so that it is possible to reduce the management and maintenance cost, the display space, and the like, and it is possible to reduce the total cost.

Further, according to the present invention, even if the lender desires to go to the shop to rent the desired video content, there is no situation in which there is no desired video content or the loan cannot be rented.

Further, according to the present invention, it becomes unnecessary for the lender to go to the video rental shop in the distance to borrow the desired video content, and the video content can be borrowed at the multimedia terminal of the convenience store nearby. Become.

Further, according to the present invention, since the video reproducing apparatus has the function of managing the lending period, it is possible to reduce the overdue of the lending period by generating an alarm, and suppress the unauthorized viewing after the expiration of the period. can do. Further, since it is possible to prevent the video content from being viewed after the expiration of the deadline, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of arrears due to the carelessness of the lender.

Further, in the present invention, the video content lending server sends out the video content for which lending is requested to the multimedia terminal by effectively utilizing the time until the lending applicant arrives at the multimedia terminal. After the applicant arrives at the multimedia terminal, the communication time between the multimedia terminal and the video content lending server is eliminated, so the processing time required for downloading after the applicant desires to arrive at the multimedia terminal. Can be deleted.

Further, according to the present invention, the loan applicant can use the multimedia terminal to extend the loan term of the video content being rented.

Further, according to the present invention, when the overdue occurs and the deadline is extended, the person who wants to lend is P at home, office, outdoors, etc.
It can be carried out by C or a mobile phone or a telephone.

Further, in the present invention, when a loan is overdue and the loan is ended by liquidation of the overdue money, the loan applicant
Since it can be carried out on a PC, a mobile phone, or a telephone at a company or outdoors, it is more convenient because the person who wants to rent does not have to go to the store.

Further, according to the present invention, when the overdue occurs and the time limit is extended, the processing up to the lending period can be confirmed by the video reproducing device.

Further, according to the present invention, when a loan is overdue and the loan is ended by clearing the overdue payment, the video reproducing apparatus can confirm that the video content has been erased. You can

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an operation image diagram of the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a video playback device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is an operation image diagram of the second embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is an operation image diagram of the third embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is an operation image diagram of the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 9 is an operation image diagram of the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is an operation image diagram of the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an operation image diagram of the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is an operation image diagram of the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is an operation image diagram of the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 video playback device, 2 video lending management center,
3 multimedia terminals, 4 internet, 5
High-speed communication line, 7 lenders, 20 monitor device, 21 firewall, 22 video content lending server, 23 settlement gateway, 31
Lending information file, 32 reservation file, 33 video content file, 34 customer information file,
35 Customer information file requiring attention, 41 Display, 4
2 input unit, 43 storage unit, 44 control unit, 45
Card handling section, 46 Cash handling section, 47 statement output section, 48 storage medium mounting section, 61 payment service provider, 62 financial institution, 70 home / company /
Locations such as outdoors, 80 stores, 101 PC (personal computer) / mobile phone, 102 browser,
110 membership card, 120 storage medium, 121
Video content, 201 video playback section, 202
Control unit, 203 clock unit, 204 alarm generation unit, 210 management information recognition unit, 211 rental flag, 212 lender ID, 213 video ID,
214 lending date, 215 lending period, 220 lending period determination unit, 230 playback stop control unit.

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Claims (25)

[Claims] 1. A lending information file that stores at least lending information of video contents, a video content file that stores lending video contents, and at least an address and name of a lending applicant who has previously registered as a member based on official documents. , A video contents lending server having a video contents lending server having a customer information file storing a contact information, a membership number and a password, and a video contents lending center connected to the video lending management center by a high-speed communication line and used for lending video contents. A lending management method for lending a downloaded video content to a writable storage medium by using a multimedia terminal writable in a storage medium, wherein the multimedia terminal can be used for lending at a video lending management center. Entered loan applicant's The step of confirming that the membership number and the password match the contents registered in advance, the step of outputting the video content lending menu by the multimedia terminal, and the step of selecting the multimedia terminal from the lending menu Transmitting at least the title of the video content to the video lending management center; the video lending management center reading out the selected video content from the video content file and sending it out; and the multimedia terminal receiving the received video content. And a step of writing to a rewritable storage medium, the method of lending management of video contents using a multimedia terminal. 2. The multimedia terminal, when writing the received video content to a rewritable storage medium, has a flag indicating that the video is for lending, a person ID indicating the identity of the lender, and a video content. The rental management method of video contents using a multimedia terminal according to claim 1, further comprising a step of writing management information about a video ID indicating a content, a lending date, and a lending period in a storage medium. 3. When the video playback device used by the lender is capable of discriminating the management information and has a timekeeping function and an alarm function for lenders, the video playback device stores the management information in the management information. The video content using the multimedia terminal according to claim 2, further comprising a step of generating an alarm for notifying that the expiration date of the lending period is about to expire before the lending period ends. Loan management method. 4. A case where a video playback device used by the lender is capable of discriminating the management information and has a timekeeping function and a playback stop function after the lending term, wherein the video playback device comprises: The video content using the multimedia terminal according to claim 2, further comprising a step of stopping the reproduction of the video content when it is determined that the lending date obtained from the management information is exceeded. Lending management method. 5. The video lending management center further comprises a settlement gateway capable of making a payment with a financial institution using a communication line, and when the video lending management center receives a title of the selected video content, The lending management method for video contents using a multimedia terminal according to claim 1, further comprising a step of performing payment corresponding to the title of the video contents. 6. The video lending management center further includes a caution customer information file for storing information of a lender whose loan due date has been exceeded in the past lending of video contents, and a lender wishing customer information file The loan management method of video contents using a multimedia terminal according to claim 1, wherein a sentence of caution against overdue is output from the multimedia terminal before being rented. 7. The video lending management center is a reservation file that can accept reservations for titles of video contents that are currently not available for lending, but have been announced to be available for lending in the near future. In the case where the multimedia terminal outputs a menu for reservation and reservation input is possible, and when the reserved video content becomes lendable, the video lending management center And a step of automatically sending the reserved video content to the multimedia terminal, and the multimedia terminal copying the received reserved video content to the storage medium. A rental management method of video contents using the multimedia terminal according to claim 1. 8. When the multimedia terminal outputs a return menu and is capable of inputting for return, the multimedia terminal confirms the delinquency with the video lending management center. 2. The method of lending management of video contents using a multimedia terminal according to claim 1, further comprising the step of performing settlement of the late charge by the multimedia terminal when there is a arrears. 9. When the multimedia terminal outputs a return menu and is capable of inputting for return, the multimedia terminal confirms the delinquency with the video lending management center. 5. The video content using the multimedia terminal according to claim 4, further comprising a step of, when there is an overdue, the video lending management center performing settlement of an overdue charge using the settlement gateway. Loan management method. 10. The multimedia terminal has a step of erasing at least the management information about the lender from the storage medium when it is confirmed that the returned storage medium is not overdue. The rental management method of video contents using the multimedia terminal according to claim 2. 11. The address, name, contact information, member number, and password of the applicant for lending stored in the customer information file when the member is registered in advance in the customer information file of the video lending management center. When the information storage card is issued, when the member number and password of the applicant for lending are input from the multimedia terminal, the information is read by reading the information storage card. A rental management method for video contents using the described multimedia terminal. 12. The video lending management center, when the lending quantity control is performed on a predetermined video content using a lending information file, the video lending management center displays a list of lendable video contents. The method for lending management of video contents using a multimedia terminal according to claim 1, wherein the generated data is generated and transmitted for display on the multimedia terminal. 13. If the lender's e-mail address or telephone number is stored as the management information in the customer information file, the video lending management center can check the lending period based on the management information. Before the termination, the method further comprises the step of generating a return date notification mail or a synthetic voice message notifying that the loan period is about to expire and transmitting the message to the lender's e-mail address or telephone number. Item 13. A lending management method of video contents using the multimedia terminal described in any one of Items 1 to 12. 14. If the lender's e-mail address or telephone number is stored as the management information in the customer information file, the video lending management center is not returned even if the lending period ends. , Notifying you that the lending period has expired and notifying you that there will be a late charge for future lending Steps to generate a return reminder email or a synthetic voice message and send it to the lender's email address or phone number The method for lending management of video contents using the multimedia terminal according to claim 1, further comprising: 15. A lending information file storing at least lending information of video contents, a video content file storing lending video contents, and at least an address and a name of a lending applicant who has previously registered as a member based on official documents. , A video content lending server having a customer information file storing contact information, email address, membership number and password,
A video lending management center that is connected to the Internet and can output a menu screen for lending reservations that can be displayed on the browser screen of a personal computer or mobile phone, and is connected to the video lending management center by a high-speed communication line to lend video contents. By using a multimedia terminal that can be written to a storage medium and a personal computer or a mobile phone that can be connected to the Internet possessed by the lender, the downloaded video content can be repeatedly written to the storage medium. A lending management method for writing and lending, wherein the video lending management center confirms that the member number and password of the lending applicant input from the personal computer or the mobile phone match the contents registered in advance. Outputting from the video lending management center a menu for lending video contents to the personal computer or the mobile phone via the Internet; and at the video lending management center, the lending reservation and receiving place input from the personal computer or the mobile phone. And the step of confirming that the member number and password of the loan applicant input from the multimedia terminal specified as the receiving place at the video lending management center match the contents registered in advance. A step in which the multimedia terminal receives and outputs the reservation content of the loan applicant from the video lending management center, and the video lending management center reads out the selected video content from the video content file and sends it out. And a step of writing the received video content in a rewritable storage medium by the multimedia terminal, the method of lending management of the video content using the multimedia terminal. 16. An alarm function for a video playback device used by the lender to discriminate the management information and notify the lender that the lending period is about to expire or a playback stop function after the lending period. In addition to having a personal computer or a mobile phone connected to the Internet, the personal computer or the mobile phone,
A step of sending a request for extension of the term to the video lending management center, and when the term extension is permitted, the video playback device displays management information about the term of lending written in the storage medium by the multimedia terminal. The method for managing rental of video contents using a multimedia terminal according to claim 15, wherein the method is changed according to the extension period. 17. A video reproducing apparatus used by the lender determines an alarm function for discriminating the management information and notifying the lender that the lending period is about to expire or a playback stop function after the lending period. In addition to having a personal computer or a mobile phone connected to the Internet, the personal computer or the mobile phone,
A step of sending a lending end request to the video lending management center, and if the lending end is permitted, the video playback device erases the video content written in the storage medium by the multimedia terminal. 16. The method for managing rental of video contents using the multimedia terminal according to claim 15. 18. A lending information file for storing at least lending information of video contents, a video content file for storing lending video contents, and at least an address and a name of a lender who has been registered as a member based on official documents in advance. , A video content lending server having a contact information, a telephone number, a member number, and a customer information file storing a password, and being connected to a telephone network, it is possible to output a voice for a rental reservation by voice
A video lending management center equipped with a telephone reception system capable of voice recognition or telephone reception by DTMF signal, and connected to the video lending management center by a high-speed communication line, and writable in a storage medium for lending video contents A lending management method of lending a downloaded video content to a writable storage medium by using a multimedia terminal and a telephone device owned by the lender, which comprises: Check that the membership number and password of the loan applicant entered from the telephone device match the contents registered in advance, and from the video lending management center, a menu for renting video contents by voice is displayed via the telephone line. Outputting to the telephone device, video lending tube In the center, the step of accepting the reservation of the loan and the designation of the receiving place inputted from the telephone device; and in the video lending management center, the membership number and password of the applicant for the loan inputted from the multimedia terminal designated as the receiving place. Confirms that the content matches the content registered in advance, the multimedia terminal receives and outputs the reservation content of the applicant for lending from the video lending management center, and the video lending management center performs the selection. The multimedia terminal is characterized in that the multimedia terminal has a step of reading and transmitting the stored video content from a video content file and a step of writing the received video content in a rewritable storage medium. How to manage video content lending . 19. An alarm function or a playback stop function after the lending deadline for allowing the video playback device used by the lender to determine the management information and notify the lender that the lending period is about to expire. If the telephone has a telephone line connected to the telephone line, and the telephone has a step of sending an extension request to the video lending management center, if the extension is permitted, The video using the multimedia terminal according to claim 18, wherein the video reproduction device changes the management information about the lending period written in the storage medium by the multimedia terminal in accordance with the extension period. Content lending management method. 20. An alarm function for a video playback device used by the lender to discriminate the management information and notify the lender that the lending period is about to expire, or a playback stop function after the lending period. If it has and is connectable to a telephone connected to the telephone line, the step of sending a lending end request to the video lending management center by the telephone, and if lending end is permitted, 19. The rental management method of video contents using a multimedia terminal according to claim 18, wherein the video reproduction device erases the video contents written in the storage medium by the multimedia terminal. 21. The video playback device used by the lender has a function of determining the management information and stopping playback after the lending time limit, and the customer information file stores the management information of the lender as the management information. When an e-mail address or a telephone number is stored, the video lending management center notifies the return date notification mail based on the management information that the lending period is about to expire before the lending period ends. 21. The method of lending management of video contents using a multimedia terminal according to claim 15, further comprising the step of generating and transmitting a message by synthetic voice. 22. A video reproducing device used by the lender has a reproduction stop function after the management information is discriminated by the management information, and the customer information file contains the management information as an e-mail of the lender. If the address or telephone number is stored, the video lending management center notifies that the lending period has expired when the lending period is not returned even if the lending period ends, and a late charge will be incurred for future lending. 16. A step of generating and transmitting a return reminder email for notifying the user of the message or a message by synthetic voice is transmitted.
20. A rental management method of video contents using the multimedia terminal described in any one of 20. 23. The video lending management center further comprises a caution customer information file for storing information of a lender whose loan due date has been exceeded in the past lending of video contents. In the case where the video lending management center is registered in the
23. The method according to claim 22, further comprising a step of additionally generating and transmitting that there is a case where a future loan cannot be received.
A method of managing rental of video contents using the multimedia terminal described in. 24. When the video lending management center can output a menu screen for extending the lending period that can be displayed on a browser screen of a personal computer or a mobile phone, the video lending management center can use the personal computer or the mobile phone via the Internet, The method for lending management of video content using a multimedia terminal according to any one of claims 15 to 17, further comprising a step of accepting an extension of a lending period of video content lent to the lender. 25. The video lending management center reads out the selected video content from a video content file and sends it to the multimedia terminal. The multimedia terminal has a step of writing the received video content in a storage medium for lending, as soon as the membership number and password of the lender are confirmed. 21. A rental management method for video contents using the multimedia terminal according to claim 15.