JPH09163339A - Image processing terminal device, image detection device, and image processing device - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Abstract: An image processing terminal device for preventing illegal copying is provided. SOLUTION: A transmission format data conversion means for converting image data of a transmission format input from the outside and subjected to compression processing into a data format capable of decompression processing, and image data converted to a data format capable of decompression processing. Decoding means for performing decompression processing and marking means for marking the decompressed image data with a mark of a preset type and outputting the image data with the mark added are marked by the marking means. Mark is detected,
An image processing terminal device in which the source of image data is specified by determining the type of the mark.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processing terminal device, an image detecting device and an image processing device, and more particularly to an image processing terminal device, an image detecting device and an image processing device suitable for preventing illegal copying of image data and the like. It is about.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, a system for supplying moving image data via a network system, a so-called cable television (CATV), a system for supplying an image radio wave from an artificial satellite to only a specific contractor, etc. have been used. Has become.

In such a system, in order to prevent damage to the image data supply source due to illegal reception of data, if the transmission signal is encrypted and the reception signal of the network or satellite radio waves is reproduced as it is, the image data will be reproduced. It cannot be restored as meaningful information.

That is, as shown in FIG. 20, a receiving side terminal is provided with a mechanism for demodulating an encrypted signal so that only a specific contractor can enjoy the information.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a conventional image processing terminal device for image reception.

In the figure, the received image data, that is, the encrypted input data is input to the multiplex layer demultiplexer 92 via the interface circuit 91, and the format is converted in the multiplex layer demultiplexer 92. At the same time, it is demodulated from the encrypted state by the action from the descrambler 93.

The demodulated image data is further converted into digital image data by the decoding circuit 94 and output via a video / audio interface 95 to a display device such as a monitor (not shown).

[0008]

As described above, according to the conventional image processing terminal device for receiving the image information and the like from the network, the CATV, the artificial hygiene, and the external storage device such as the server, the multiplex layer demultiplexer 92 is used. Since the encrypted data can be demodulated and supplied by the operation of the descrambler 93, the profit of the data supplier can be surely protected. Further, the above system can supply not only image data but also audio data and all other information supplies.

However, at this time, since the image data and the like demodulated and output to the display device can be freely copied at a stage prior to the decoding circuit 94 or the video / audio interface 95, it is illegally copied. Cannot be prevented.

Image data illegally copied in this way,
When audio data or the like is sold, there is no means for identifying the copy source, and there is a drawback that the copyright holder is not protected.

On the contrary, since the copyright holder lacks protection of the copyright holder, there is a possibility that the copyright holder may be reluctant to supply the data and the system may not be implemented smoothly. .

The present invention has been made in consideration of such circumstances, and a first object thereof is to provide an image processing terminal device for preventing illegal copying.

A second object is to provide an image processing device for preventing illegal copying.

Further, a third object is to provide an image detecting apparatus for detecting an illegal copy should it occur.

[0015]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the invention corresponding to claim 1 is a transmission for converting image data in a compressed transmission format inputted from the outside into a data format capable of decompression processing. Format data conversion means, decoding means for performing expansion processing on the image data converted into a decompressible data format, and marking of a predetermined type on the expanded image data, and the mark is added. The image processing terminal device is provided with a marking unit that outputs the generated image data, the mark marked by the marking unit is detected, and the source of the image data is specified by determining the type of the mark. .

According to a second aspect of the invention, in the invention according to the first aspect, when the image data in the transmission format is encrypted, the information for canceling the encryption is transmitted in the transmission format. The transmission format data conversion means is provided with an encryption decryption means for inputting to the data conversion means, and the information for decryption is input, the transmission format data conversion means also performs the decryption when converting the data to a decompressible data format. It is an image processing terminal device to be implemented.

Further, the invention according to claim 3 is the invention according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mark is marked within the effective display range of the screen on which the image data is displayed and is visible. An image processing terminal device.

Further, the invention corresponding to claim 4 is:
In the invention corresponding to claim 1 or 2, the mark is an image processing terminal device that is marked within the effective display range of the screen on which the image data is displayed and is invisible.

On the other hand, the invention according to claim 5 is the image processing terminal device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mark is marked outside the effective display range of the screen on which the image data is displayed. .

Next, in the invention according to claim 6, uncompressed image data inputted from the outside is marked by a marking means for marking a mark of a preset type, and this marking means is used to make a mark. The source of the image data is specified by including the encoding means for compressing the image data and outputting the compressed image data, and detecting the mark marked by the marking means and judging the kind of the mark. Image processing device.

The invention according to claim 7 is the first input means for inputting the image data to be the reference, the second input means for inputting the image data to be compared, and the first and second When the contents of the image data input by the input means are substantially the same, the difference detecting means for detecting a difference between the two and at least one of the image processing terminal devices according to claims 1 to 5 are provided. When there is an image processing terminal device, it becomes a comparison target in the mark information holding means that holds information about the type of mark set for each image processing terminal device and the difference detected by the difference detection means. If the portion of the image data is a mark determination unit that determines whether or not the mark is one of the marks held in the mark information holding unit and the mark of any type, An image detection device and a device information output means for outputting the device information of the image processing terminal marking mark.

Furthermore, the invention according to claim 8 is characterized in that: first input means for inputting image data to be a reference; second input means for inputting image data to be compared;
And when the contents of the image data input by the second input means are substantially the same, the difference detecting means for detecting the difference between the two and the type of mark for the image data marked by the image processing apparatus according to claim 6. About the mark information holding means holding the information about the information and the portion of the image data to be compared in the difference detected by the difference detecting means is any kind of mark held in the mark information holding means. An image including mark determining means for determining whether or not the mark is present, and information output means for outputting information about image data corresponding to the mark of the type when the mark is determined to be the mark of any type. It is a detection device.

Furthermore, the invention corresponding to claim 9 is
In the invention corresponding to claim 7 or 8, the image data to be compared is an image detection device input from a communication path or a transmission path of the image data.

Therefore, in the image processing terminal device according to the first aspect of the invention, first, the transmission format data conversion means can decompress the transmission format image data which is input from the outside and has been subjected to the compression processing. Converted to data format.

Next, the decoding means subjects the image data converted into the decompressible data format to the decompression process.

As a result, the image data is converted into data such as a video signal that can be displayed on a monitor or the like, and the decompressed image data is marked by the marking means.
A mark of a preset type is marked, and the image data to which the mark is added is output.

It should be noted that the kind of mark referred to here is predetermined for each image processing terminal device, and is basically different if each image processing terminal device is different.

The image data that has been expanded and converted and can be displayed in this manner may be connected to a video deck or the like and further recorded.

However, with respect to the image data output by the image processing terminal device, by detecting a mark and determining the type of the mark, the image data is output by any terminal device. Since it can be specified, it is possible to specify the image processing terminal device that has been copied, for example, even when an illegal copy is made.

Therefore, when this image processing terminal device is used as a terminal or the like for contract supply of image data on a commercial basis, it is particularly effective in preventing illegal copying.

Further, in the image processing terminal device of the invention according to claim 2, the same operation as that of the invention according to claim 1 is performed, and when the image data in the transmission format is encrypted, Information for decrypting the encryption is input to the transmission format data converting means by the decrypting means. As the descrambling means, a descrambler or the like is used.

Decryption is also carried out when the transmission format data conversion means to which the information for decrypting the encryption is input converts the data into a data format that can be expanded.

Further, in the image processing terminal device of the invention according to claim 3, the mark operates as the effective display range of the screen on which the image data is displayed, in addition to the same operation as the invention according to claim 1 or 2. It is supposed to be visible inside.

By making the mark visible, for example, by inserting the logo of the data supplier, it is possible to explicitly warn the prohibition of illegal copying.

Further, in the image processing terminal device of the invention according to claim 4, the mark operates as the invention corresponding to claim 1 or 2, and the mark is an effective display of the screen on which the image data is displayed. It is not visible within the range.

This is, for example, to change only a specific 1 bit to a predetermined color so that a mark cannot be seen with the naked eye of a human even with a mark.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent an unnecessary display from appearing on the screen display while having the effect of prohibiting the illegal copying.

On the other hand, in the image processing terminal device of the invention corresponding to claim 5, in addition to the same effect as the invention corresponding to claim 1 or 2, the mark indicates the effective display range of the screen on which the image data is displayed. Marked on the outside. Therefore, the effect of the invention corresponding to claim 4 can be more reliably exhibited.

Next, in the image processing terminal device of the invention according to claim 6, the marking means marks uncompressed image data input from the outside with a mark of a preset type.

The image data marked by the marking means is data-compressed by the encoding means,
The compressed image data is output.

The type of mark referred to here may be changed, for example, every time processing is performed by this image processing apparatus.

Therefore, for example, if the copyright holder himself uses this device to provide the image data with the mark to the image data supplier, etc., when an illegal copy is found, which image data supplier is It can be specified whether it is provided.

Further, in the image processing terminal device of the invention according to claim 7, first, by the first input means,
The reference image data is input.

Next, the image data to be compared is input by the second input means.

Further, the difference detecting means detects the difference between the two when the contents of the image data input by the first and second input means are substantially the same.

Here, "almost the same" means, for example, moving images and images of the same movie and the same scene.
That is, even if image data having different contents are compared with each other, there is no point in detecting illegal copy. In other words, it is possible to detect minutely different points of almost the same image data as seen by human eyes.

On the other hand, in the mark information holding means,
When there is a plurality of image processing terminal devices for at least one of the image processing terminal devices of No. 5, information about the type of mark set for each image processing terminal device is held. .

Then, whether or not the portion of the image data to be compared at the difference detected by the difference detecting means by the device information output means is any kind of mark held in the mark information holding means. If it is determined that the mark is a mark of any type and a mark determination unit that determines whether or not the device information of the image processing terminal device that marks the type of mark is output.

As a result, the image processing terminal device which has been illegally copied can be specified.

Further, in the image processing terminal device of the invention corresponding to claim 8, the mark information holding means holds information about the kind of the mark of the image data marked by the image processing device of claim 6. The information output means outputs the information about the image data corresponding to the determined type of mark, and also operates in the same manner as the image processing apparatus according to claim 7.

Therefore, for example, when an illegal copy is found, it is possible to specify which image data supplier has provided the image data.

Further, in the image processing terminal device of the invention according to claim 9, the same operation as that of the invention according to claim 7 or 8 is performed, and the image data to be compared is the communication path or transmission of the image data. Input from the route.

[0053]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described below.

(First Embodiment of the Invention) FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an image processing terminal device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

This image processing terminal device comprises an interface circuit 1 and a transport layer demultiplexer 2
, A descrambler 3, a decoding circuit 4, an image conversion circuit 5, a video interface 6, a monitor such as a display (not shown), and other peripheral elements.

The interface circuit 1 converts the image signal input from the signal line 11 into the TS format (MPEG2).
Transport stream format) and output to the transport layer demultiplexer 2.
When the information about the descramble is input through the signal line l1, for example, when the image signal or the like includes the information about the descramble, the information about the descramble is sent to the descrambler 3 through the signal line l2. Output.

Here, the signal line 11 is a CAT (not shown).
Communication lines such as V, storage device, transmission from artificial satellite, TV
The interface circuit 1 is connected to a line / apparatus (not shown) such as a receiving device for broadcasting or the like, and information is input to the interface circuit 1.

Transport layer demultiplexer 2
Converts the information (MPEG2-TS) input from the interface circuit 1 via the signal line 13 into PS format, that is, MPEG2-PS. Signal line l3
If the information input via the is descrambled and cannot be used as image data as it is, the descrambling is canceled based on the information input via the signal line l4.

The descrambling is a kind of encryption applied to a transmission signal so that an unauthorized person cannot accurately reproduce the image signal.

The descrambler 3 has signal lines 12 and 1
The descrambling cancellation information is generated based on the information input from the signals 5 and 5, and is output to the transport layer demultiplexer 2 via the signal line l4.

The descrambler 3 also generates image conversion information used in the image conversion circuit 5. This image conversion information is created using the information input from the signal lines 12 and 15.

Here, the signal line 15 inputs to the descrambler 3 signals necessary for descrambling and setting (such as time and ID such as device identification information).

The decoding circuit 4 decodes the MPEG2-PS information input from the transport layer demultiplexer 2 via the signal line 16 to obtain RGB, YUV.
Etc. to generate a video signal.

The image conversion circuit 5 includes a descrambler 3
The image conversion information generated in (1) is input via the signal line 17 and the video signal input from the decoding circuit 4 via the signal line 18 is converted based on this information. This gives a kind of marking in the video signal.

The image conversion circuit 5 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the arrangement of the image conversion circuit in the image processing terminal device of this embodiment.

The image conversion circuit 5 includes a synchronization control circuit 11
A video signal generation circuit 12, a conversion control circuit 13,
It is composed of a delay circuit 14 and a mixer 15.

The synchronization control circuit 11 generates a control signal for synchronizing each circuit based on the clock, and the video signal generation circuit 12, the conversion control circuit 13, the delay circuit 14,
Input to mixer 15.

The video signal generation circuit 12 generates a video signal based on the input signal from the decoding circuit 4. In this case, RGB, horizontal, and vertical sync signals are generated.

The conversion control circuit 13 performs a calculation based on the information for image conversion input from the descrambler 3,
The conversion point is determined, and conversion data for the signal generated by the video signal generation circuit 12 is generated. Therefore, the data from the video signal generation circuit 12 is taken in, and
Information about conversion is output to the synchronization control circuit 11.

The delay circuit 14 delays the screen generated by the video signal generating circuit 12 by one frame.

The mixer 15 mixes the conversion signal generated by the conversion control circuit 13 and the signal output by the delay circuit 14 to generate a video signal with a mark.

As shown in FIG. 1, the video signal having this mark is input to the video interface 6 through the signal line l9.

The video interface 6 has a signal line 19
The converted video signal input from the image conversion circuit 5 via the converter is further converted into another video signal such as NTSC or PAL and output to the TV monitor or the video deck via the signal line l10. Therefore, for example, when connecting an RGB monitor, the video interface 6 may be omitted and the signal line 19 may be directly connected to the RGB monitor.

Correspondences between the constitutions in the claims and the above constitutions will be described below.

The transmission format data conversion means is composed of, for example, the interface circuit 1 and the transport layer demultiplexer 2.

The decoding means is composed of, for example, a decoding circuit.

The marking means is composed of, for example, a portion for generating data for image conversion of the descrambler 3 and the image conversion circuit 5.

The code removing means is composed of, for example, the descrambler 3.

Next, the operation of the image processing terminal device according to the embodiment of the present invention configured as described above will be described.

In this image processing terminal device, as shown in FIG.
Image signals from V and TV broadcasts are input, and the input signal is M
It is converted to PEG2-TS and input to the transport layer demultiplexer 2.

Further, in the transport layer demultiplexer 2, the information of MPEG2-TS is MPE.
If the information is converted to G2-PS information and the information is descrambled, the descrambling is canceled by the information from the descrambler 3.

The MPEG2-PS information is further converted into RGB signals by the decoding circuit 4 and input to the image conversion circuit 5.

In the image conversion circuit 5, based on the information from the descrambler 3, a predetermined mark for each terminal device is marked on the converted RGB signal and converted into an NTSC signal by the video interface 6, It is output from a monitor, etc.

Here, in the image processing terminal device of the present embodiment, the RGB video signal output from the decoder circuit 4 is transmitted to the image conversion circuit 5 based on the image conversion data from the descrambler 3. The feature is that conversion is performed as mark addition.

However, the image conversion circuit 5 can perform image conversion into various patterns.
5, an operation example, that is, an image conversion example will be described as an operation example (1), an operation example (2), and an operation example (3).

Operation Example (1): First, the operation example (1) will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an operation example (1) of the image processing terminal device of the present embodiment.

In this case, from the descrambler 3, the number of frames 1 indicating the frame number of the screen forming the moving image, the number of lines n in the 1 frame, the number of pixels m, and the RGB data are displayed as an image. It is input to the image conversion circuit 5 as information for conversion.

Therefore, this lmn information modifies the data of the horizontal m pixel of the vertical n line of the l frame. Specifically, the conversion target lmn
The RGB data of the pixel is changed. By examining this pixel later, it is possible to identify whether or not the image data is reproduced by the image processing terminal device.

Operation Example (2): Next, the operation example (2) will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an operation example (2) of the image processing terminal device of this embodiment.

In this case, the conversion control circuit 13 receives the information including the identification number as the information for image conversion from the descrambler 3, and puts the identification information in the blanking line section deviated from the valid screen based on the identification number. Since the blanking zone is off the monitor display, humans do not notice this when they look at the screen.

Operation Example (3): Next, the operation example (3) will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an operation example (3) of the image processing terminal device of the present embodiment.

In this case, the conversion control circuit 13 puts a mark (for example, "T company" in FIG. 5) clearly visible to a human at a certain position on the screen based on the information for image conversion from the descrambler 3. . Thereby, it is possible to identify at a glance whether or not the image is reproduced by the image processing terminal device.

The above operation example (1), operation example (2), and operation example (3) have been described as image conversion examples. However, as the image conversion timing in each of these operation examples, that is, the timing of marking. May be marked only at the beginning and the end of image data (video), marked at regular time intervals, marked at a scene change, or the like.

Next, the above operation example (1), operation example (2),
The operation of the image conversion circuit 5 capable of each operation of the operation example (3) will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image conversion circuit in the image processing terminal device of this embodiment.

First, it is determined whether conversion information, that is, information for image conversion is input to the conversion control circuit 13 (ST1).

If not input (ST1), it is determined that the image conversion is not performed, and the image conversion circuit 5 ends without executing the image conversion.

If input (ST1), the conversion control circuit 13 analyzes the conversion information (ST).
2).

As a result of the analysis, in the case of the operation example (1) (ST3), first, the image information is input to the conversion control circuit 13 from the video signal generation circuit 12 (ST4).

Next, the conversion control circuit 13 modifies the image based on the information of the video signal generation circuit 12 and outputs it to the mixer 15 (ST5). Then, after that, the image data is output as the marked image data, and the process ends.

Next, as a result of the analysis, in the case of the operation example (2) (ST6), first, the conversion control circuit 13 generates a control signal such as a blanking interval and inputs it to the synchronization control circuit 11. (ST7).

Then, the synchronization control circuit 13 outputs the control information to the mixer 15, and the mixer 15 outputs the image control signal (ST8). As a result, the return line section is marked, and the process ends.

Further, as a result of analysis, in the case of the operation example (3) (ST9), first, the conversion control circuit 13 generates image information to be a mark and outputs it to the mixer 15 (ST10).

Then, the mixer 15 superimposes the image information of the video signal control circuit 12 and the image information of the conversion control circuit 15 and outputs them (ST11).

If none of the operation examples (1), (2) and (3) (ST9), the image conversion circuit 5 ends the analysis without executing the image conversion because the analysis is impossible.

In this manner, the video signal is marked in some form by the information from the descrambler 3 and is output to the monitor device, the video deck, or the like. The type of this mark is predetermined for each terminal device.

Therefore, when illegal copying is performed, it is possible to easily determine which image processing terminal device is used for copying by detecting this marking and checking its type.

As described above, the image processing terminal device according to the embodiment of the present invention converts the compressed input data by the interface circuit 1 and the transport layer demultiplexer 2 and decompresses it into a video signal, Since the image conversion circuit 5 marks and outputs a predetermined mark, when the output image data is recorded, it is possible to determine the source of which terminal device was recorded.

As described above, a mark is detected in the image data output by the image processing terminal device, and
By determining the type of the mark, it is possible to specify which terminal device output the image data.
For example, even when an illegal copy is made, the image processing terminal device that has made the copy can be specified.

Therefore, this image processing terminal device is particularly effective in preventing illegal copying when it is used, for example, as a terminal when contracting and supplying image data on a commercial basis.

Further, since the image processing terminal device according to the embodiment of the present invention is provided with the descrambler 3 so that the encrypted image data can be reproduced, the image data can be managed in combination with the above effect. It can be performed more reliably.

(Second Embodiment of the Invention) FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of an image detecting apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The same parts as those in FIG. The description will be omitted and only different parts will be described here.

This image detecting device is for detecting the image data marked by the image processing terminal device described in the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 7, the image detecting apparatus inputs the original data such as the moving image to be investigated and generates the reference signal, and the comparison target about the moving image to be inspected. And a comparison circuit 21 for detecting an illegal copy by inputting a signal and the reference signal.

The original data processing unit 20 has the same structure as the image processing terminal device of the first embodiment.
The reference signal os1 is output from the decoding circuit 4 by the signal line 1111.
Is input to the comparison circuit 21. Similarly, the reference signals os2 and os3 are input to the comparison circuit 21 from the image conversion circuit 5 and the video interface 6 through the signal lines l12 and l13, respectively.

The comparison circuit 21 receives the reference signals and the comparison signals cs1 and cs3.

The comparison target signal cs1 is image data composed of a digital signal, and is data when it is handled as a moving image of RGB by a computer.

On the other hand, the comparison target signal cs3 is image data composed of analog signals, for example, data when it is once stored on a tape by a video deck.

The comparison circuit 21 compares the reference signal with the comparison target signal to determine whether the image data corresponding to the comparison target signal is illegally copied in any image processing terminal device. The configuration is shown in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the structure of the comparison circuit according to the present embodiment.

As shown in the figure, the comparison circuit 21 has a first
A comparator 22, a second comparator 23, a third comparator 24,
It is composed of a difference analysis unit 25 and a device identification information generation unit 26.

The first comparator 22 compares the reference signal os1 with the comparison target signal cs1 and outputs the difference to the difference analyzer 25.

The second comparator 23 compares the reference signal os2 with the comparison target signal cs1 and outputs the difference to the difference analysis section 25.

The third comparator 24 compares the reference signal os3 with the comparison target signal cs3 and outputs the difference to the difference analyzer 25.

The difference analysis unit 25 is configured to compare the comparators 22 and 2 with each other.
The features of the differences are analyzed by the outputs from 3, 24, and the analysis result is input to the device identification information generating unit 26.

The device identification information generating section 26 has information about what kind of marking is made in each image processing terminal device, and which image data to be compared is determined based on this information and the above analysis result. If it is determined that the image processing terminal device is a copy of the image processing terminal device, the device identification information (ID information) of the image processing terminal device is output.

Correspondences between the configurations in the claims and the above configurations will be described below.

The first input means is, for example, the signal line l11,
It is constituted by l12 and l13.

The second input means is, for example, the comparison target signal c.
It is composed of signal lines for inputting s1 and cs3.

The difference detection circuit is composed of, for example, the first, second and third comparators 22, 23 and 24 and the difference analysis section 25.

The mark information holding means, the mark determination means, and the device information output means are constituted by, for example, the device identification information generating section 26.

Next, the operation of the image detecting apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention configured as above will be described.

In this image detecting apparatus, the original image data is input to the original data processing section 20 and the same image processing as in the image processing terminal apparatus is performed.

Therefore, the image detection is performed by using the decode circuit 4 output, the image conversion circuit 5 output, and the video interface 6 output, which are the stages of each image processing, as the reference signals os1, os2, os3.

Here, the reference signal os1 can be detected as to whether or not there is a difference between the images which should be the same image.

If there is a difference with respect to the original image that has not been subjected to image conversion, it may be possible that the output from the image processing terminal device is illegally copied as a reason for the difference.

Therefore, in such a case, it is possible to specify the image processing terminal device by simulating the output of the image processing terminal device in the original data processing section 20 and comparing it with the reference signal os2 as the image change output. Become.
Although not shown in FIG. 7, the comparison analysis result in the comparison circuit 21 is reflected in the original data processing unit 20 for further comparison analysis.

FIG. 9 shows a specific example in the case where the image processing terminal device can be identified by the check with the reference signal os2 in this way.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a state of comparison in the comparison circuit according to the present embodiment.

That is, as shown in the figure, for example, in the case of the operation example (1) of the first embodiment, when the process at lmn performed by a certain image processing terminal device is detected in the comparison target signal, It can be specified that the image data of the comparison detection signal is output from the image processing terminal device.

In this way, the comparator circuit 21 can detect an illegal copy.

The above is the reference signal o using a digital signal.
When s1 and os2 are used, even when an analog signal is used, the operation of the descrambler 3 can freely generate a signal subjected to image conversion and a signal not subjected to image conversion. Therefore, the reference signal os3 is used. Similar analysis can be performed by using only.

Next, the overall flow of the operation of the comparison circuit 21 in this image detecting apparatus will be briefly described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the operation of the comparison circuit of this embodiment.

First, image information (analog or digital) to be compared and investigated is input to the comparison circuit 21. On the other hand, the reference signals os1, os2, os3 are input from the original data processing section 20 (ST11).

Next, the reference signals os1, os2, os3 and the image information (analog or digital) cs to be compared and investigated.
1 and cs3 are compared (ST12).

If there is no difference in the comparison result, the process ends, and if there is a difference (ST13), the difference is analyzed (ST14).

From the difference information, the device unique number,
That is, the ID information of the image processing terminal device is specified (ST
15), the unique number of the device is output (16).

As described above, the image detecting apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention compares the reference signal with the comparison target signal, and detects that there is a difference even though they are the same video signal. If the difference is a copy of an output signal from any of the image processing terminal devices, it is determined that if it is the copy, device information about the terminal device is output. Therefore, the image data obtained by illegally copying the output of the image processing terminal device according to the present invention can be detected, and the image processing terminal device of the copy source can be specified.

(Third Embodiment of the Invention) FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of an image detection apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The same parts as those in FIG. The description will be omitted and only different parts will be described here.

This image detecting device is for detecting the image data marked by the image processing terminal device described in the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 7, the image detection apparatus inputs original data such as a moving image to be investigated and generates an original data processing unit 20 for generating a reference signal and a comparison target for the moving image to be inspected. A comparison circuit 21 that receives a signal and the reference signal to detect illegal copying, and an image data processing unit 27 that generates a comparison target signal to be input to the comparison circuit 21.

The original data processing section 20 and the comparison circuit 21 are constructed in the same way as in the case of the image detecting apparatus of the second embodiment.

The components of the image data processing unit 27 are as follows.
It has the same configuration as that of each part of the image processing terminal device shown in FIG. It is input to the circuit 21.

In the comparison circuit 21, the comparison target signal cs
1, cs2 and cs3 are input to the first, second and third comparators 22, 23 and 24, respectively.

Next, the operation of the image detecting apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention configured as described above will be described.

In this image detecting apparatus, the operation after the comparison target signals cs1, cs2 and cs3 are input to the comparator 21 is the same as in the case of the second embodiment.

Since this image detection apparatus uses the image data processing unit 27 having the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, not only the data stored in the data storage medium such as the video tape or the hard disk, Image detection similar to that in the second embodiment is performed on image data transmitted via a network or a communication line.

As described above, the image detecting apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention is constructed and operates in the same manner as the apparatus of the second embodiment, and in addition, a signal to be compared is transmitted from a network or a communication line. Since the input is enabled, in addition to the same effect as the device of the second embodiment, it is possible to monitor whether or not illegally copied image data is exchanged on a network or the like, and further detect illegally copied data. It can be done reliably.

(Fourth Embodiment of the Invention) FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data transmission system to which an image detection apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is applied.

In this data transmission system, a plurality of transmission sources 31, 32 ,. . Is connected to a transmission control circuit 34 via a transmission line 33 (may be a communication line), and
A transmission control circuit 36 is connected on the transmission path 33 from a transmission control circuit 34 via a monitoring circuit 35, and the transmission control circuit 36
From receivers 37, 38 ,. . Has been reached.

Here, the transmission control circuits 34 and 36 have a function of recording what kind of data has been transferred. The transmission control circuits 34 and 36 correspond to network servers using workstations, for example.

Further, the monitoring circuit 35 has a database 3
9 is connected to the monitoring circuit 35 and the database 3
9 constitutes the image detection device of the present embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the arrangement of the image detection apparatus of this embodiment.

The monitoring circuit 35 includes an input circuit 40, a data extraction identification circuit 41, and a database control circuit 42.
The delay storage circuit 43, the buffer memory 44, the comparison circuit 45, and the control circuit 46.

The input circuit 40 is an interface circuit for inputting data from the transmission line 33.

The data extraction identification circuit 41 analyzes the information input from the input circuit and identifies whether it is image data or not.
If it is image data, it identifies what kind of image it is and sends an identification code to the database control circuit 46. At the same time, the image data is sent to the delay storage circuit 43.

The database control circuit 42, based on the image identification code input from the data extraction identification circuit 41,
The database 39 is accessed to retrieve the reference image.

The delay storage circuit 43 temporarily holds the image data input from the data extraction identification circuit 41. This holding process is performed in order to synchronize with the data retrieved from the database 39.

The buffer memory 44 is a delay storage circuit 43.
This is the memory for the buffer used by.

The comparison circuit 45 compares the information input from the database 39 with the information input from the delay storage circuit 43, determines whether or not there is an illegal copy, and if there is an illegal copy, specifies the image processing terminal device. The structure of the comparison circuit 45 is similar to that of the comparison circuit 21 shown in the second and third embodiments.

The control circuit 46 performs synchronous control of each circuit inside the monitoring circuit 35 and accesses the transmission control circuits 36, 36 and the like in the case of illegal copying to specify the transmission source and the transmission destination.

Next, the operation of the image detecting apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention configured as above will be described.

First, regarding the overall operation of the image detecting apparatus,
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing the operation of the image detection apparatus of this embodiment.

First, information is input from the transmission line 33 via the input circuit 40 (ST21).

Next, it is determined whether or not the input information is image data to be identified / compared. If it is not identified / compared, the process ends. If it is identified / compared, the process proceeds to step ST23. Proceed (ST22).

In step ST23, image data to be identified is extracted from the data input from the transmission path 33.

The taken-out image data is the delay accumulation circuit 4
3 and is stored in the buffer memory 44, the reference video is retrieved from the database 39 (S
T24).

The data stored in the buffer memory 44 and the data fetched from the database 39 are compared in the comparison circuit 45 (ST25), and if the data input from the transmission path 33 is not illegally copied, the process ends. If it is illegally copied, it is specified by which image processing terminal device the illegally copied data is copied (ST27).

Then, the identification information such as the device ID of the specified image processing terminal device is output (ST28), and the process ends.

When it is determined by the above operation that the data transmitted on the transmission path 33 is illegally copied data, the operation of the control circuit 46 further specifies the sender of the illegally copied data. . This operation is shown in FIG.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing the operation of the image detecting apparatus of this embodiment.

First, the transmission line 33 is operated by the operation shown in FIG.
The data transmitted above is investigated (ST3
1).

Next, it is judged from the result of this investigation whether or not the data on the transmission path 33 is copy information (ST32). If it is not an illegal copy, the process ends. If it is an illegal copy, the destination and sender (source) Identification information for identifying the (ST3
3).

That is, the data format transmitted on the transmission path 33 is as shown in FIGS. 16 (a) and 16 (b), for example.

FIG. 16 shows a transmission line 3 according to this embodiment.
3 is a diagram showing an example of a data format transmitted on the H.3.

As shown in FIG. 10A, when the data includes a destination address and a source address,
The sender can be identified immediately (Fig. 15, ST
37).

On the other hand, when the destination address and the addresses of the transmission control circuits 34 and 36 are included in the data as shown in FIG. 9B, the source cannot be directly specified. Steps ST34 to S in the flowchart of FIG.
The operation of T36 is required.

As shown in FIG. 15, first, step ST
In step 34, an inquiry is made to the transmission control circuits 34 and 36 specified by the transmission source information extracted in step ST33, and the data is transferred to the transmission control circuit from the transfer record stored in the transmission control circuit. Information identifying the source of the transmission is retrieved.

Further, it is inquired whether the transmission source (transmission control circuit in this case) is the final transmission source of the data (ST35).

If it is the final transmission source (ST36), the transmission source of the data is determined, and the process proceeds to step ST37. If it is not the final transmission source, the process returns to step ST34 to make an inquiry to the transmission source, thereby sequentially going up and down the transmission source to make an inquiry / confirmation, and the final transmission source is determined.

In this way, after the final transmission source is specified (ST37), information about the transmission source is output (ST38), and it is specified / confirmed from where the illegal copy data is transmitted.

As described above, the image detecting apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention is provided with the same configuration as that of the apparatus of the second and third embodiments in the comparison circuit 45, and the signals to be compared are input to the network or the like. In addition to enabling input from the transmission line or communication line of the above, the transmission control circuits 34 and 36 are inquired to sequentially check the data transmission source.
In addition to the effect similar to that of the apparatus of the embodiment, the final transmission source and the reception source can be specified, and the illegally copied data can be detected more reliably.

(Fifth Embodiment of the Invention) This embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment of the invention and relates to an image processing terminal device.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an example of an image processing terminal device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. The same parts as those in FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted. Only different parts will be described.

In this image processing terminal device, a data conversion circuit 50 is provided between the transport layer demultiplexer 2 and the decoding circuit 4, and a signal line 120 is provided between the transport layer demultiplexer 2 and the data conversion circuit 50.
The data conversion circuit 50 and the decoding circuit 4 are connected by a signal line 121.

Data for data conversion from the descrambler 3 to the data conversion circuit 50 is sent to the signal line l2.
It is designed to be input via 2.

The data conversion circuit 50 uses the MPEG-PS output from the transport layer demultiplexer 2.
By performing data conversion on the information, a kind of marking is performed on the final image data. Here, the information for performing the data conversion is obtained from the descrambler 3.

The descrambler 3 generates information for data conversion in the data conversion circuit 50 and sends it to the data conversion circuit 50. Here, the information for data conversion is generated using the information input from the signal lines 12 and 15.

Other configurations are the same as those of the image processing terminal device of the first embodiment. In the image processing terminal device configured as described above, in the same manner as in the case of the first embodiment, in addition to marking image data, data conversion is performed by the data conversion circuit 50,
This also gives a kind of marking to the image data.

As described above, the image detecting apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention has the same structure and operation as the apparatus of the first embodiment, and also converts the data before decoding by the data converting circuit 50. Therefore, in addition to the same effect as the device of the first embodiment, when the image data is illegally copied, the copied image processing terminal device can be more reliably specified.

(Sixth Embodiment of the Invention) First and Second Embodiments
The image processing terminal device described in the embodiment is
Image data transmitted in ATV, satellite broadcasting, VOD system, etc. is marked on the display terminal side to prevent illegal copying.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment,
An image processing apparatus that performs marking on original data supplied to a data transmission source will be described.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing an example of an image processing apparatus according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

This image processing apparatus has an interface circuit 51, an image conversion circuit 52, and an encoding circuit 53.
, An interface circuit 54, and other peripheral elements (not shown).

The interface circuit 51 is adapted to receive the input of the uncompressed image data.

The image conversion circuit 52 performs image conversion on the image data input to the interface circuit, that is, performs marking as described in the first embodiment. Therefore, the image conversion circuit 52 has the same configuration as the image conversion circuit 5 in FIG.
And a configuration for generating information similar to the information for image conversion generated by.

The encoding circuit 53 is the image conversion circuit 52.
The image data marked in step 2 is compressed according to the standard such as MPEG2 and output to the interface circuit 54.

The interface circuit 54 finally converts the format of the data compressed by the encoding circuit 53 into a format suitable for the data transmission path, the data storage medium, etc. supplied by the image processing apparatus, and outputs it.

The marking means in the claims is
For example, it is configured by the image conversion circuit 52.

Next, the operation of the image processing apparatus thus configured will be described.

First, the user of the image processing apparatus such as the copyright holder, according to some type such as each image data supply destination,
Determine the type of image conversion.

Next, the original data, that is, the original image data is input to the interface circuit 51, and image conversion is performed according to the determined type of image conversion. The converted image is data-compressed and further output after necessary format conversion.

FIG. 19 is a diagram schematically showing the state of image conversion and data compression at this time.

That is, "T" is added as a mark to the original image.
"Company" (operation example (3) of the first embodiment) is entered and data is further compressed.

By changing the conversion type of such image conversion for each image data supply destination, for example, when the illegally copied data is detected, it is possible to determine to which supply destination the data is supplied.

As described above, since the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention compresses the image converted by the image conversion circuit 52 by the encoding circuit 53, it is processed by this apparatus. When the image data is copied illegally, for example, it is possible to identify which image data was copied by checking the mark provided by the image conversion.

By the way, as a device for detecting a copy of the image data generated by this image processing device,
An image detection device similar to the device shown in the third and fourth embodiments is used.

That is, the device identification information generating section 26 in the image detecting apparatus shown in FIG. 8 stores the supplementary information such as the data supply destination and the mark type information for each image data generated by the image processing apparatus, Additional information such as the data supply destination regarding the detected image data is output.

By doing so, when the image data generated by this image detecting device is copied, it can be detected.

In the above-described embodiments of the present invention, the case of handling image data such as video has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and is applicable to, for example, music data. Is.

Here, when audio or the like is to be the final connection destination, an audio conversion circuit may be used in place of the image conversion circuit 6 shown in FIG. 1, and an audio interface may be used in place of the video interface 6. In this case The operation of is almost the same as that of the video.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be variously modified without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0229]

As described above in detail, according to the present invention, since a predetermined mark is attached to image data, it is possible to provide an image processing terminal device for preventing illegal copying.

Since the image data is provided with a predetermined mark, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus for preventing illegal copying.

Further, by checking this predetermined mark, it is possible to provide an image detecting device for detecting an illegal copy should it occur.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of an image processing terminal device according to a first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image conversion circuit in the image processing terminal device of the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a diagram explaining an operation example (1) of the image processing terminal device of the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram explaining an operation example (2) of the image processing terminal device of the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an operation example (3) of the image processing terminal device of the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation of an image conversion circuit in the image processing terminal device of the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram showing an example of an image detection apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a comparison circuit in the same embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a manner of comparison in a comparison circuit according to the same embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the comparison circuit of the present embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram showing an example of an image detection device according to a third embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a data transmission system to which an image detection device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is applied.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image detection apparatus according to the same embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image detection apparatus of the same embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image detection apparatus of the same embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a data format transmitted on a transmission line 33 in the same embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a configuration diagram showing an example of an image processing terminal device according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18 is a configuration diagram showing an example of an image processing apparatus according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram schematically showing a state of image conversion and data compression in the image processing apparatus of the embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a conventional image processing terminal device for image reception.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Interface circuit, 2 ... Transport layer demultiplexer, 3 ... Descrambler, 4 ... Decoding circuit, 5 ... Image conversion circuit, 6 ... Video interface, 11 ... Synchronization control circuit, 12 ... Video signal generation circuit, 13 ... Conversion Control circuit, 14 ... Delay circuit, 15 ...
Mixer, 20 ... Original data processing unit, 21 ... Comparison circuit, 22 ... First comparator, 23 ... Second comparator, 24 ... Third comparator, 25 ... Difference analysis unit, 26 ... Device identification information generation unit, 31, 32 ... Source, 33 ... Transmission path, 34, 36
... transmission control circuit, 37, 38 ... receiver, 39 ... database, 40 ... input circuit, 41 ... data extraction identification circuit, 4
2 ... Database control circuit, 43 ... Delay storage circuit, 44
... buffer memory, 45 ... comparison circuit, 46 ... control circuit,
50 ... Data conversion circuit, 51 ... Interface circuit,
52 ... Image conversion circuit, 53 ... Encoding circuit, 54 ... Interface circuit

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A transmission format data conversion means for converting image data of a compressed transmission format input from the outside into a data format capable of decompression processing, and decompressing to image data converted to the data format capable of decompression processing. Decoding means for performing processing and marking means for marking the decompressed image data with a mark of a preset type and outputting the image data with the mark added are marked by the marking means. Mark is detected, and
An image processing terminal device characterized in that the source of image data is specified by determining the type of the mark. 2. When the image data in the transmission format is subjected to an encryption process, an encryption decryption unit is provided for inputting information for decrypting the encryption to the transmission format data conversion unit, 2. The image according to claim 1, wherein the transmission format data conversion unit, to which the information for canceling the encryption is input, also performs the decryption when converting the data into the decompressible data format. Processing terminal equipment. 3. The image processing terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the mark is marked within the effective display range of the screen on which the image data is displayed and is visible. 4. The image processing terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the mark is marked within an effective display range of a screen on which the image data is displayed and is invisible. . 5. The image processing terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the mark is marked outside the effective display range of the screen on which the image data is displayed. 6. Marking means for marking a mark of a preset type on uncompressed image data inputted from the outside, and image data marked by this marking means is data-compressed and compressed. An image processing, comprising: an encoding unit for outputting image data, wherein the mark marked by the marking unit is detected, and the source of the image data is specified by determining the type of the mark. apparatus. 7. A first input means for inputting image data to be a reference, a second input means for inputting image data to be compared, and an image input by the first and second input means. When there is a plurality of image processing terminal devices for at least one of the image processing terminal devices according to claims 1 to 5, when the contents of the data are substantially the same, In, the mark information holding means that holds information about the type of mark set for each image processing terminal device, and the portion of the image data to be compared in the difference detected by the difference detection means A mark determination means for determining whether the mark is one of the types of marks held in the mark information holding means, and if it is determined that the mark is one of the types of marks, Image detecting apparatus comprising the device information output means for outputting the device information of the image processing terminal marking mark. 8. A first input means for inputting reference image data, a second input means for inputting image data to be compared, and images input by the first and second input means. A difference information detecting means for detecting a difference between the two when the contents of the data are substantially the same, and a mark information holding information holding a mark type of the image data marked by the image processing apparatus of claim Means and a mark for determining whether or not the portion of the image data to be compared at the difference detected by the difference detecting means is any kind of mark held by the mark information holding means. A determination unit, and an information output unit that outputs information about image data corresponding to the type of mark when it is determined to be the type of mark. Image detecting apparatus characterized by. 9. The image detecting apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the image data to be compared is input from a communication path or a transmission path of the image data.