Dynamic License Enforcement in Trusted Execution Environments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in switching media formats on IoT devices while consuming media content, as existing DRM systems do not efficiently manage licensing and billing for format changes, leading to potential overpayment or underpayment for partially consumed content.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a trusted execution environment (TEE) to dynamically modify media formats and manage licensing, where a client device detects trigger mechanisms to request updated licenses from a content server, allowing for secure and metered billing based on the format and usage of media files.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DRM controls are used to control media playback, then content security is improved, but format switching capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic license switching that allows the DRM system to adapt to different playback formats (e.g., switching from SD to HD, or from mobile to TV format) while maintaining security. The license manager dynamically updates licensing information based on detected trigger mechanisms such as format changes, enabling the system to be both secure and adaptable.
2Productivity
If billing is committed at license issuance, then content provider revenue is improved, but user flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the billing parameter from a fixed upfront charge to a dynamic metered billing model. The system tracks the portion of content consumed under each license type and adjusts billing accordingly. This allows users to pay only for what they actually consume in each format, providing flexibility while ensuring content providers receive appropriate revenue for each format accessed.
3Ease of operation
If license switching is enabled, then user convenience is improved, but system complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated license management system that operates without requiring user intervention. The system automatically detects trigger mechanisms (such as format changes or device expansions), retrieves appropriate licensing information from the content provider, and switches licenses seamlessly. This self-service approach maintains user convenience while managing the inherent system complexity through automation.
4Measurement precision
If metered billing is implemented, then billing accuracy is improved, but measurement complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the client device continuously monitors content consumption and reports usage data back to the content provider. The content provider uses this feedback to accurately determine the portion of content consumed under each license type and generates appropriate metered billing. This feedback loop ensures billing accuracy while managing measurement complexity through systematic data collection and reporting.
Data Source
AI summary
Managing playback of a media file, including detecting, while a media file is playing, a trigger mechanism indicating a change in optimal play characteristics of the media file from an original format, wherein the playback of the media file is associated with a first license, in response to detecting the trigger mechanism, instructing a trusted execution environment to request an updated license from a content provider of the media file, and upon receiving a second license for the media file, the trusted execution environment enforces play of the media file using the second license for a second format. The second license allows for the play of the media file to continue at the optimal play characteristics.