Multiplexed Secure Video Game Distribution via Multi-Level Encryption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing video game distribution systems face challenges in maintaining secure and updated remote libraries, as well as reliability and cost-effectiveness, particularly in distributed networks like hotels, cruise ships, and airplanes, where piracy risks and maintenance difficulties are significant.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a multi-level encryption system for secure electronic distribution of video game software, using a first and second encryption layer to protect content during download and storage, and sharing a video game library among multiple players via a multiplexer and secure bus, with modular plug-in mass storage devices for easy replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If video game software is distributed electronically over a network, then the need for physical media transfer is reduced and remote access is enabled, but piracy risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the encryption into multiple independent layers (first encryption layer for download protection, second encryption layer for storage protection). Each layer can be compromised independently, but the overall system remains secure. This segmentation allows the system to maintain remote access capability while mitigating piracy risks through layered security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nested encryption where the second encryption layer is applied within the context of the first encryption layer. The software is first encrypted with the first key during download, then encrypted again with the second key for storage. This nested structure ensures that even if one encryption layer is breached, the other layer provides additional protection against piracy.
2Quantity of substance
If a centralized video game server is used to distribute games to multiple users, then cost is reduced and shared resources are optimized, but reliability decreases due to single point of failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized server into multiple independent video game players distributed across different locations. Each player can operate independently and provides game distribution to its associated users. This segmentation eliminates the single point of failure while maintaining resource sharing efficiency across the distributed network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal distributed system where multiple video game players can serve multiple users simultaneously. Each video game player is capable of serving multiple users through the network, and users can access games from any available player. This multi-functionality ensures system reliability while optimizing resource utilization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If video game players are distributed across multiple locations, then adaptability increases and local access is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal video game players that can function in multiple locations and serve multiple users. Each player is designed with standardized interfaces and protocols that enable them to operate independently across different locations while maintaining compatibility with the overall system. This universality improves local access adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a network as an intermediary that simplifies the distribution architecture. The network handles communication between users and video game players, managing connection routing and data transmission. This intermediary layer abstracts the complexity of distributed connections, allowing multiple locations to access games seamlessly without increasing user-side complexity.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple encryption layers are applied to protect video game software, then security against piracy is improved, but processing time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the first encryption layer during the initial download phase, before the software is stored. This preliminary encryption protects the software during transmission and initial storage, reducing the need for repeated encryption operations during playback. The second encryption layer is applied during storage, and both layers are decrypted in sequence during execution, minimizing processing time while maintaining strong security.
Data Source
AI summary
Multiple video game players access an encrypted video game library stored on a shared mass storage device. A multiplexer multiplexes data read from the mass storage device to provide output streams to multiple video game playing units consuming video game instructions. A secure bus communicates video game instructions from the shared mass storage device to each of the video game playing units. Video game software or other entertainment content is distributed to the shared mass storage device via electronic download in multi-level encrypted form. Before being transported, the content is encrypted and then further encrypted. Once the content has been successfully transported, it is decrypted to remove the further encryption layer—leaving the first encryption layer intact for protecting the video game during storage on mass storage at the remote distribution location.