Web Asset Licensing via Embedded Identifier Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current software licensing methods fail to effectively manage and protect web assets, such as fonts and multimedia files, leading to revenue loss due to unauthorized use and lack of piracy protection.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for licensing web assets, where a web asset management module ensures that only entitled users can access and use web assets by verifying licenses and removing access if entitlements expire, preventing unauthorized use and protecting provider interests.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If web assets are made freely accessible and shareable, then ease of operation and user convenience are improved, but piracy protection and revenue security deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments web assets into licensed and unlicensed portions by embedding unique identifiers in the asset files. The licensing system then segments access control by validating these identifiers against licensed user lists, allowing legitimate users to access assets while blocking unauthorized users. This segmentation enables selective access without restricting overall asset shareability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary licensing system that acts as a mediator between web assets and users. This system validates unique identifiers embedded in asset files against licensed user lists stored on remote servers before granting access. The intermediary layer enables convenient asset access for authorized users while preventing unauthorized use, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and protection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If web assets are embedded in documents and shared, then adaptability and document portability are improved, but piracy protection deteriorates due to easy copying
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by embedding unique identifiers specifically within the web asset files (such as font files) themselves, rather than relying on document-level protection. This allows the asset to maintain its functionality and portability across different documents while carrying its own authentication marker. The licensed user list is then checked locally on the user's machine to verify authorization, enabling portable access without vulnerability to copying.
3Ease of operation
If web assets are stored individually in computer memory, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of licensing control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by requiring the licensing system to continuously verify unique identifiers against licensed user lists stored on remote servers. When a user attempts to access a web asset, the system checks the asset's identifier against the remotely stored licensed user list, and only grants access if validation succeeds. This feedback loop ensures reliable licensing control while maintaining individual asset storage and easy access for authorized users.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer implemented method and apparatus for licensing web assets. The method comprises loading a web asset for use by one or more software applications when an entitlement to use the web asset exists for a first user of the web asset, wherein the entitlement defines a purchased license to the web asset, and wherein the web asset is use agnostic.