Network Content Association Using Unique Identifiers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital video recording systems lack a method to determine whether content selected for playback was obtained from the same network to which the playback device is currently connected, posing challenges for network operators in enforcing content security and business rules.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves using unique identifiers to associate content with its source network, employing cryptographic signatures for authentication, and comparing these identifiers to ensure that playback is restricted or allowed based on network authorization, thereby linking content playback to its original network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If content is stored locally on CPE to enable time shifting and personalized control, then user convenience and viewing flexibility are improved, but content security and copyright protection deteriorate as content can be played back on different devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by embedding network identification information and cryptographic keys into the content before storage. This preliminary association of content with its source network ensures that when content is later retrieved for playback, the system can automatically verify network authorization and prevent unauthorized playback on different devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary verification mechanism that acts as a mediator between content storage and playback. This intermediary system checks network identification information and cryptographic signatures before allowing playback, thereby maintaining content security while still enabling convenient local storage and time shifting capabilities.
2Reliability
If network operators implement content association with network identifiers to enforce security rules, then content protection is improved, but system complexity increases due to additional authentication and verification mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the CPE device universal by integrating multiple functions into a single system: content storage, network identification, cryptographic verification, and playback control. This multi-functional approach, while increasing complexity, provides comprehensive content protection through unified mechanisms rather than separate security layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses cryptographic copying of network identification information and keys into the stored content. This creates a digital copy of the network association that can be verified during playback without requiring physical or network connection to the original source, enabling content protection while maintaining playback flexibility on authorized devices.
3Manufacturing precision
If content is made available in digital format directly on network to eliminate analog conversion, then content fidelity is improved, but copyright protection challenges increase as exact copies can be stored locally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by embedding network-specific identification information and cryptographic protection mechanisms directly into the digital content at the point of storage. This local association of content with its source network ensures high fidelity preservation while simultaneously implementing copyright protection, as the content can only be played back on devices associated with the same network.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for perform association of stored content downloaded over a network with a unique identification. In one embodiment, the content is stored locally, and the association is performed in a secure manner using network or source-specific information (e.g., the organization identification or “orgID” of the bearer network or MSO). This association is used to ensure that the content stored on the playback device can be accessed for viewing only when the playback device is connected to the same network from which the content was obtained. Use of the orgID allows the content association and protection functionality to be implemented in existing networks with only minor software changes.