Broadcast Receiver ECM Decryption via Standardized CAS Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conditional access systems (CAS) for broadcast content face challenges in updating proprietary software embedded in TVs and require additional hardware and complexity when using external devices, leading to increased costs and complexity in implementing and maintaining access control.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize an entitlement control message (ECM) with a preset format, generated based on CAS information, to decrypt encrypted content, allowing broadcast receiving apparatuses to access content without needing specific software for each CAS, by using a hash to retrieve the ECM from an external device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If proprietary CAS software is embedded in TVs for each broadcasting operator, then content access control is achieved, but frequent software updates are required during the TV lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the operator-specific CAS software from the TV device itself and relocates it to external servers. The TV only retains a standard CAS module that can work with multiple operators, while operator-specific ECM processing is performed externally, eliminating the need for frequent embedded software updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal standard CAS module in the TV that can work with multiple broadcasting operators through a standardized interface. This multi-functional module replaces the need for operator-specific proprietary software, allowing the same hardware to serve multiple operators without frequent updates.
2Reliability
If external devices like CAS dongles are used to implement CAS in receivers, then content protection is achieved, but additional hardware costs and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the CAS functionality directly into the TV's built-in processor and memory, combining what were previously separate external dongle devices with the television itself. This integration eliminates the need for separate hardware components while maintaining content protection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a standard CAS module as an intermediary layer between the TV hardware and operator-specific ECM formats. This mediator enables the TV to work with multiple operators without requiring external adaptation devices, replacing the need for CAS dongles.
3Measurement precision
If operator-specific ECM formats are used for each broadcasting business, then precise content access control is achieved, but compatibility issues arise across different operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by maintaining operator-specific ECM format characteristics where needed for precise access control, while using a standardized interface framework that ensures compatibility across different operators. Each operator's ECM retains its specific properties locally while fitting into a universal system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of ECM format from fixed operator-specific to flexible convertible formats. The system can transform between standard and operator-specific formats as needed, allowing precise access control for each operator while maintaining broad compatibility through format conversion capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are an apparatus and a method for processing conditional access system (CAS)-based content. A method of operating a broadcast receiving apparatus includes: receiving a broadcast stream that includes content encrypted based on a CAS; extracting, from the received broadcast stream, CAS information for decrypting the encrypted content; receiving an entitlement control message (ECM) having a preset format based on the CAS information generated in a different format for each broadcasting business operator; and displaying the content decrypted based on the ECM.