PVR Access Key Encryption for Secure Content Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current video content rental models face limitations in delivering program content securely and cost-efficiently, as they often require physical store visits and are prone to unauthorized copying and time restrictions, with existing solutions like DIVX requiring specialized equipment and active key management.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using a personal video recorder (PVR) with an access key and encrypted removable storage medium, allowing selective viewing of video program content by matching the access key on the PVR with the storage medium, enabling secure and cost-efficient delivery of content through various channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard rental model with physical store visits is used, then content delivery is simple, but security against unauthorized copying and time management is weak
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the content protection function into separate components: an encryption module that encrypts content before storage, a decryption module that decrypts content for viewing, and a control module that manages access keys and viewing rights. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to provide secure content delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an access key as an intermediary between the encrypted content and the decryption process. The access key acts as a mediator that validates user authorization and controls the decryption function, preventing unauthorized access without requiring complex hardware modifications to the content itself.
2Reliability
If DIVX encryption method is used, then security is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to specialized players and active key management
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by embedding the decryption capability directly within the standard DVD player hardware. The player automatically uses the access key stored in its memory to decrypt content without requiring external intervention, specialized equipment, or manual key management procedures. This eliminates the need for separate decryption devices while maintaining security.
3Reliability
If rental period is limited, then prevention of extensive copying and sharing is improved, but customer convenience and viewing flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides dynamic viewing flexibility by allowing the rental period and viewing rights to be adjusted based on customer needs and payment choices. The access key can be configured to permit different viewing durations and conditions, enabling customers to extend viewing time or access content multiple times within the rental period without compromising security or requiring additional physical media.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for delivering video program content with selective viewing capability. An apparatus in accordance with the present invention comprises a personal video recorder (PVR), which can be a portion of an Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD), an access key, coupled to the PVR, and a storage medium containing the video program content, wherein the video program content is stored on the storage medium in an encrypted manner, the access key is used to access the program content on the storage medium, and the storage medium is removable from the PVR.