Method and system for controlling video media

Abstract

A method and system for controlling video input media is described. The method includes receiving video media via a video media input device. The video media input device is communicatively coupled with and operable in conjunction with the electronic device. The method further includes monitoring a data path within the electronic device associated with the video media. The monitoring is performed by a compliance mechanism communicatively coupled with and operable in conjunction with the electronic device. The method further includes preventing the video media from reaching a usage mechanism via the data path, the usage mechanism communicatively coupled with the electronic device. The usage mechanism is able to create an environment in which the video media can be used in an unauthorized manner. The preventing performed by the compliance mechanism is done when usage of the video media with the usage mechanism violates a usage restriction applicable to the video media.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims the benefit and to and is a continuation of the co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 941,787 filed on Sep. 14, 2004, entitled “METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING VIDEO MEDIA” by Hank Risan et al., assigned to the assignee of the present application, having Attorney Docket No. MOMI-020, and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.[0002]The application Ser. No. 10 / 941,787 claims priority to the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 503,934 entitled “METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING VIDEO MEDIA” by Hank Risan et al., filed Sep. 16, 2003, Attorney Docket Number: MOMI-020.PRO; which are hereby incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0003]The present invention relates to controlling video media. More particularly, the present invention relates to providing a system and method for providing protection against unauthorized and unlawful use of digital video media.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIO...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Effectively prevents unauthorized recording and distribution of copyrighted video media, ensuring compliance with licensing agreements and providing compensation to copyright holders by restricting access and usage in accordance with set restrictions.

Problems solved by technology

Disadvantageously, currently broadcasted video media content is not afforded protection from capture, (e.g., an indicator for indicating protected media, an encryption applied to the video media content, a proprietary player needed to experience the video media content, and the like) or unauthorized reproduction.

It is also common for users sharing files in an uncontrolled manner to use freely distributed or commercially available media player applications to experience, e.g., listen, view, and / or watch, the shared files.

Additionally, many of the computers, web sites, and web broadcasters that share copyrighted material commonly do not control or monitor the files being exchanged between computers.

Additionally, when web sites attempt to control or restrict the distribution of copyrighted material, e.g., audio, video, or other files, users seeking to circumvent controls or restrictions can, in many cases, simply utilize the recording functionality of a media player application and save the copyrighted material, rename the particular media file, and upload the renamed file, rendering attempts to control or restrict its distribution moot.

A disadvantage to the uncontrolled sharing of files, more particularly the capturing, saving, and uploading of copyrighted material, e.g., broadcasted digital video media files, is that there is currently no effective means to provide compensation to the owner (e.g., television network, public broadcasting television, movie company, etc.) of the copyrighted material.

Studies have revenue losses in the billions due to unauthorized copying and inaccurate reporting of royalties.

Current methods of sharing media files do not provide adequate file distribution controls or proper accountability with regard to licensing agreements and / or copyright restrictions associated with shared copyrighted material.

When computers where using 56 k modems, the size of a video media file would require substantial time to download or copy.

Current systems and methods of controlling broadcasted digital video media are inadequate.

Images