WO2008102989A1

WO2008102989A1 - System for downloading and playing audio data

Info

Publication number: WO2008102989A1
Application number: PCT/KR2008/001010
Authority: WO
Inventors: Min Hwan Cho; Sung Jun Park
Original assignee: Min Hwan Cho; Sung Jun Park
Priority date: 2007-02-22
Filing date: 2008-02-21
Publication date: 2008-08-28
Also published as: KR20090000549A

Abstract

In an audio service system comprising audio data downloading and playing systems consisting of an audio server for generating audio data by encoding audios whose copyright is pr otected by being selected by each user, with the use of first encoding keys (IDl') uniquely generated for players where the audios are to be stored, and the players for downloading the audio data generated for the user-selected audios from the audio server to store the downloaded audio data, the present invention relates to the audio data downloading and playing system for downloading and using the audio data generated by uniquely encoding the user-selected audios according to each individual player, including headers assigned with fixed IDs which are unique ID values and for containing first encoding key information(IDl') generated by encoding the first encoding keys(IDl').

Description

Description SYSTEM FOR DOWNLOADING AND PLAYING AUDIO DATA

Technical Field

[1] The present invention generally relates to system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players, and more specifically, to system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players capable of downloading the audio data, particularly, audio data uniquely encoded for each player from a server to store and play the downloaded audio data. Background Art

[2] In the past, players which provide audios by only compression or transformation of audio media to media instead of individual encoding in users' individual audio equipment, that is, LP(Long Playing record) systems, cassette tapes, and CDs(Compact Disks) have been used as media for recording and playing audios, and theses players have outputted recorded sounds by using separate players such as PA(Public Amplifier) equipment provided by multiple facilities or radios as general sound service media. However, though media like radios are beneficial to general audio services, problems that audios may be re-recorded or duplicated still exist. Besides, recently, MP3 formats for compressing sounds which were recorded in analog type into digital formats to provide the compressed sounds have been provided, In case of MP3 format files, they are widely used thanks to the small size of the files and easy movability by largely compressing capacities of sounds.

[3] Meanwhile, as for the sounds delivered through the above media, the copyright of composers/songwriters or producers is mostly protected. But, the existing media for delivering sounds cannot properly protect the copyright of the sounds since the sounds can be very easily copied or distributed. In particular, in case of MP3 files which are recently used a lot, problems may more deteriorate because they can be easily searched and downloaded online through the web sites or file sharing programs without any special sanctions. In the long run, it can shrink the domestic disk markets and threaten even the existence of the disk markets. Thus, technical plans capable of preventing illegal distribution or duplication of audios whose copyright is protected are urgently needed.

[4] To satisfy the above requirements, a player which unifies a storage unit for storing audios with a player unit for playing the stored audios has been suggested. The above player is configured to prevent duplication and distribution of audios by comprising the storage unit and the player unit as one device and storing the audios whose copyright is protected in the storage unit in a production stage. However, though the above player can prevent a new audio from being added to the storage unit, there is a problem that the audios may be illegally copied and distributed if the audios stored in the storage unit leak. Namely, another type of illegally copied sounds may be provided by recording sounds played through the player or extracting the audios stored in the storage unit. These illegally duplicated audios may be geometrically copied, causing a problem that there is almost no substantial method for suppressing the duplication of the audios.

Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[5] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players capable of effectively protecting copyright by downloading and storing audios whose copyright is protected in audio data type uniquely encoded according to each player to prevent artificial extraction of the audios, and by disabling normal playback of the audio data through another player to block illegal duplication of the audios even though the stored audio data leaks.

[6] Also, it is another object of the present invention to provide system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players capable of more effectively blocking illegal usage like audios are recorded, by authenticating output devices and outputting audios which provide normal sounds to the authenticated output devices only, when the audio data stored in the players are outputted through the output devices such as earphones. Technical Solution

[7] In order to accomplish the above object, in an audio service system comprising more than one audio data downloading and playing system consisting of an audio server for generating audio data by encoding audios selected by each user among audios whose copyright is protected, by using first encoding keys(IDl') uniquely generated for each user's players where the audios are to be stored, and the players equipped for each user and for downloading the audio data generated for the user- selected audios from the audio server to store the downloaded audio data, as the audio data downloading and playing system for downloading and using the audio data generated by uniquely encoding the user-selected audios according to each user's individual players, system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention, comprising: the players assigned with fixed IDs which are unique ID values including product information, storing the audio data by receiving audio data packets, which are composed of headers including first encoding key information(IDl") generated by encoding the first encoding keys(IDl'), the audio data, and checksum, from the audio server, and extracting and playing the audios by decoding the stored audio data; and output devices for outputting the audios played from the players by being connected to the players; and wherein the players, comprising: controllers for extracting the first encoding key information(IDl") from the headers of the audio data packets, extracting the first encoding keys(IDr) by decoding the first encoding key information(ID 1 ") by using the fixed IDs of the players as keys, and for extracting and playing the audios by decoding the stored audio data by using the first encoding keys(IDl') as keys; and storage units for storing the fixed IDs of the players, first encoding algorithm for encoding/decoding the audio data, and the audio data; and wherein the audio server generates the first encoding key information(ID 1 ") by encoding the first encoding keys(IDl') by using the fixed IDs of the players for downloading the audio data as keys.

[8] Desirably, the fixed IDs of the players contain types of the players, manufacturing date, manufacturers, versions, and manufacturing sequence. More desirably, when the players connect with the audio server, the controllers of the players assign mobile IDs having more than one field, transmit ID 1 consisting of the fixed IDs of the players and the assigned mobile IDs to the audio server, while the audio server generates the first encoding keys(IDl') by encoding the mobile IDs with the fixed IDs of the IDl after inserting preset values into each field of the mobile IDs of the IDl. The mobile IDs contain audio versions which are versions of the user-selected audios, information on whether to permanently store the audio data, playing/storing methods indicative of the number of times of the audio data being played, encoding information, download frequency indicative of the number of times of the audio data being downloaded again, and memory size indicative of the remaining memory capacities of the players. In this case, if the playing/storing methods are set to permanent storage of the audio data, the controllers of the players randomly generate and assign codes for deleting the audio data, and abolish the assigned codes. Desirably, when the audios extracted by decoding the audio data are played, the controllers of the players transmit confirmation codes for authenticating the output devices to the output devices, and the output devices transmit response codes corresponding to the confirmation codes to the players. In addition, the storage units of the players further store fifth encoding algorithm and fifth encoding keys for encoding/decoding the extracted/played audios, and the controllers of the players encode the played audios by using the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding keys to send the encoded audios to the output devices, and transmit the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding keys to the output devices if the response codes received from the output devices are reasonable values corresponding to the confirmation codes. At this time, the output devices include controllers which extract the audios by decoding the encoded audios with the use of the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding keys. More desirably, the audio data downloading and playing systems further comprise Internet radios for outputting information provided by contents providers as voices, being assigned with fixed IDs which are unique ID values including product information, and for communicating/connecting the players to the audio server through an Internet or wire/wireless communication network by being coupled with the players. The Internet radios comprise speakers for outputting the audios played from the players, and controllers for assigning mobile IDs having more than one field and sending ID2 consisting of the fixed IDs of the Internet radios and the assigned mobile IDs to the audio server, when the Internet radios are connected to the audio server. On this occasion, the audio server generates second encoding keys(ID2') by encoding the mobile IDs with the fixed IDs of the ID2 after inserting certain values into each field of the mobile IDs of the ID2, generates second encoding key in- formation(ID2") by encoding the second encoding keys(ID2') with the fixed IDs of the ID2, and double encodes the audio data encoded with the first encoding keys (IDl') by using the second encoding keys(ID2'), then includes the second encoding key in- formation(ID2") in headers of audio data packets as including the encoded audio data in the audio data packets to send the packets. And, the controllers of the Internet radios extract the second encoding keys(ID2') by decoding the second encoding key in- formation(ID2") included in the headers of the audio data packets by using the fixed IDs of the Internet radios as keys, decode the audio data of the audio data packets by using the second encoding keys(ID2') as keys, and transmit the decoded audio data to the players. Likewise, More desirably, the audio data downloading and playing systems further comprise Internet radios for outputting information provided by contents providers as voices, being assigned with fixed IDs which are unique ID values including product information, and being connected with the players, and docking stations assigned with fixed IDs which are unique ID values including product information, and for communicating/connecting the players and the Internet radios to the audio server through an Internet or wire/wireless communication network by being coupled with the Internet radios. The Internet radios comprise speakers for outputting the audios played from the players, and controllers for assigning mobile IDs having more than one field and sending ID2 consisting of the fixed IDs of the Internet radios and the assigned mobile IDs to the audio server, when the Internet radios are connected to the audio server. The docking stations comprise controllers for assigning mobile IDs having more than one field and sending ID3 consisting of the fixed IDs of the docking stations and the assigned mobile IDs to the audio server, when the docking stations are connected to the audio server. At this point, the audio server generates second encoding keys(ID2') by encoding the mobile IDs with the fixed IDs of the ID2 after inserting certain values into each field of the mobile IDs of the ID2, generates third encoding keys(ID3') by encoding the mobile IDs with the fixed IDs of ID3 after inserting certain values into each field of the mobile IDs of the ID3, generates second encoding key information(ID2") by encoding the second encoding keys(ID2') with the fixed IDs of the ID 2, and generates third encoding key information(ID3") by encoding the third encoding keys(ID3 ) with the fixed IDs of the ID3, and sequentially encodes the audio data encoded with the first encoding keys(IDl') by using the second enc oding keys(ID2') and the third encoding keys(ID3'), and includes the second encoding key information(ID2") and the third encoding key information(ID3") in headers of audio data packets as including the encoded audio data in the audio data packets to send the packets. The controllers of the docking stations extract the third encoding keys(ID3') by decoding the third encoding key information (ID3") included in the headers of the audio data packets by using the fixed IDs of the docking stations as keys, decode the audio data of the audio data packets by using the third encoding keys(ID3') as keys, and transmit the decoded audio data to the Internet radios. The controllers of the Internet radios extract the second encoding keys(ID2') by decoding the second encoding key information(ID2") included in the headers of the audio data packets by using the fixed IDs of the Internet radios as keys, and decode the audio data of the audio data packets by using the second encoding keys(ID2') as keys to send the decoded audio data to the players.

Advantageous Effects

[9] system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention have the following benefits:

[10] 1) Since the audio data is uniquely encoded and generated according to players, normal usage of the audio is impossible though downloaded audios leak, thereby effectively blocking illegal duplication and distribution of the audios. The system for downloading and playing the audio data uniquely generated for the individual players in accordance with the present invention generate mobile IDs of players which download and use the audio data, generate first encoding keys by encoding the mobile IDs with fixed IDs uniquely assigned to each player, and encode/decode the audios by using the first encoding keys. Thus, though the audio data is generated for the same audios, the audio data becomes unique custom-made data having different sizes and formats according to each player where the audio data is downloaded. The above audio data is stored in storage units in encoded state by being downloaded to the players, and is decoded in case of playback. Also, the first encoding keys for decoding the audio data are encoded again with the fixed IDs of each player, and are transmitted by being inserted into headers of audio data packets. Therefore, even though audio data stored in a particular player leaks and is stored in another player, it is impossible to normally use the audio data because a first encoding key capable of decoding the audio data is different. That is to say, though first encoding key information included in a header of an audio data packet is obtained, a fixed ID of the corresponding player should be equipped in order to acquire the first encoding key. Accordingly, it is not available to obtain the normal first encoding key in another player, and the audio data cannot be normally decoded with the abnormal first encoding key obtained like above. So, illegal duplication and distribution of audios can be effectively blocked to efficiently protect the copyright.

[11] 2) Since double encoding is conducted by using the first to third encoding keys generated by using mobile IDs and fixed IDs of players, Internet radios, and docking stations, security may be remarkably enhanced. When encoding audios selected by users in an audio server, the system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention generate the first to third encoding keys by using IDl, ID2, and ID3 of communicated/connected user devices (players, Internet radios, and docking stations), generate audio data by encoding the audios with the first encoding keys, and double encode the audio data with the second and third encoding keys. Furthermore, the encoded audio data is decoded one step by one step with each encoding key as passing through each device. Thus, compared to a case of encoding the audio data by only using a first encoding key of a player, a security degree can be tremendously improved, and normal usage of the audio data can be effectively blocked even though the audio data leaks while being downloaded.

[12] 3) When audios played from players are outputted, normal audios can be outputted to authenticated output devices only, after the output devices are authenticated, thereby blocking illegal duplication. The system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention transmit encoding algorithm and encoding keys capable of authenticating output devices through confirmation codes and response codes and decoding encoded audios for the authenticated output devices only. So, if invalid output devices are used for players, audio data or encoded audios are outputted as they are. Thus, it is impossible to output normal sound-quality audios. Consequently, illegal duplication like recording played audios can be effectively intercepted.

[13] 4) When audios are selected and downloaded from an audio server, it is possible to set storage methods and the number of times the audios being played and to store audio data in players according to the set information, thus the audios can be set and usable according to users' requirements.

[14] 5) The systems can be easily applicable to texts(documents) whose copyright is protected such as novels, teaching materials, correspondence materials and transcripts, or videos whose copyright is protected such as movies, broadcasting contents and video lectures as well as audios whose copyright is protected, thereby realizing a wide application. [15] In accordance with the provisions of the patent statutes, the present invention has been described in what is considered to represent its preferred embodiment. However, it should be noted that the invention can be practiced otherwise than as specifically illustrated and described without departing from its spirit or scope.

Brief Description of the Drawings [16] The advantages of the invention wil become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment when considered in the light of the accompanying drawings, in which: [17] Fig. 1 is a format diagram of system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention; [18] Fig. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a player and an output device in accordance with the present invention; [19] Fig. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an Internet radio in accordance with the present invention; [20] Fig. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a docking station in accordance with the present invention; [21] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an encoding method of audio data in accordance with the present invention; [22] Fig. 6 shows a state diagram of using system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention; [23] Fig. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a process of downloading audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention; and [24] Fig. 8 is a flow chart illustrating a process of playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention. [25]

[26] *** Reference List ***

[27] 10: players 11,31,41: display units

[28] 12,32: input units 13,22,33,42: controllers

[29] 14,34,43: storage units 15,35,44: power supply units

[30] 16,21,36,45: communication modules 20: output devices

[31] 23,37: converters 24,38: amplifiers

[32] 25,39: speakers 30: Internet radios [33] 40: docking stations 50: computers

[34] 100: audio data downloading and playing systems

[35] 200: Internet or wire/wireless communication network

[36] 300: audio server

Mode for the Invention

[37] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown.

[38] 1. Audio data: data for encoding audios(whose copyright is protected) in order to prevent illegal duplication and leakage.

[39] 2. Audios whose copyright is protected: audios where the exclusive privileges of a writer are authorized, and the user should pay for certain charges so as to use the audios. For instance, they contain songs of singers, lectures of lecturers from the private institutes, audio books, sermon, doctrines, and sounds possessed by groups or persons who have the copyrights. In case of disks, one song unit or an overall disk can be included according to the user's selection.

[40] 3. Audio data packets: data packets transmitted from an audio server when audios are selected and downloaded, consisting of headers + audio data + checksum.

[41] 4. IDs: ID values assigned during manufacturing in order to identify players,

Internet radios, and docking stations, consisting of fixed IDs.

[42] 5. Fixed IDs: unique ID values assigned during manufacturing of players, Internet radios, and docking stations, that is, product information including types of the players, manufacturing date, manufacturers, versions, and manufacturing sequence.

[43] 6. Mobile IDs: ID values including information for encoding/decoding and storing audios, containing audio versions, playing/storing methods, encoding information, downloading times, and memory size. The audio versions refer to versions where the corresponding audios are re-recorded or updated, and the playing/storing methods indicate the number of times audio data being played and storage types(whether to permanently store) of the audio data. The encoding information shows encoding or mixing methods used while the audios are encoded, and the downloading times indicate the number of times or the remaining number of times the corresponding audios being downloaded if the audios are restricted to downloading times. The memory size refers to the remaining memory capacities of the players, being calculated by the audio server when the players and the audio server are communicated/connected together. The mobile IDs assign each field so that controllers of the players, the Internet radios and the docking stations can insert each piece of information when connecting to the audio server, and insert 0 or NULL into each field as default values. The audio server inserts necessary information into each of the assigned fields when the audios are downloaded.

[44] 7. IDl, ID2, ID3: ID values of players, Internet radios, and docking stations transmitted in case of connection to an audio server, consisting of fixed IDs and mobile IDs. At this time, the mobile IDs assign each field by controllers of the players, the Internet radios, and the docking stations, and 0 or NULL is inserted into each of the assigned fields.

[45] 8. ID4: login information(ID, password, etc.) of the user in case of connection to an audio server.

[46] 9. IDl¹, ID2¹, ID3¹: show encoding keys used when an audio server generates audio data by encoding audios to be downloaded. IDl', ID2', and ID3' are generated when the audio server inserts necessary values into each field of mobile IDs of the ID 1 , the ID2, and the ID3 and encodes each mobile ID with each fixed ID of the players, the Internet radios, and the docking stations.

[47] 10. IDl", ID2", ID3": show encoding key information inserted into headers of audio data packets so that an audio server can extract encoding keys which encode audios. IDl", ID2", and ID3" are generated by encoding the IDl¹, the ID2', and the ID3' with each fixed ID of players, Internet radios, and docking stations.

[48]

[49] Fig. 1 is a format diagram of system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention. Also, Fig. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a player and an output device in accordance with the present invention, Fig. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an Internet radio in accordance with the present invention, and Fig. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a docking station in accordance with the present invention. The configuration of the system for downloading and playing the audio data uniquely generated for the individual players in accordance with the present invention will be described below.

[50] Audio data downloading and playing systems(lOO) in accordance with the present invention comprise players(lθ) for downloading encoded audio data to store the downloaded data and for decoding/playing the audio data, output devices (20) for outputting audios played from the players, Internet radios(30) for providing radio broadcasting contents through the web and outputting the audios played from the players by being coupled with the players, docking stations (40) for communicating/ connecting the players or the Internet radios to computers(50) or to an Internet or wire/ wireless communication network(200), and the computers(50) connected to the players, the Internet radios, and the docking stations and for connecting to an audio server(300) through the Internet radios. Each of the audio data downloading and playing systems (100) of each user is communicated/connected to the audio server(300) through the Internet or wire/wireless communication network(200), and individually downloads audio data generated by being encoded for audios selected by each user. During manufacturing, IDs (fixed IDs) which are unique ID values are assigned to the players(lθ), the Internet radios(30), and the docking stations(40) of the respective audio data downloading and playing systems(lOO) so as to identify the systems(lOO) from devices of other systems. Each component will be described in detail as follows.

[51]

[52] The players(lθ) are communicated/connected to the audio server(300) through the

Internet or wire/wireless communication network(200), and download audio data from the audio server to store the downloaded audio data. The audio data downloaded to the players are generated when the audio server(300) encodes audios selected by users. The players (10) are communicated/connected to the Internet or wire/wireless communication network(200) through the computers(50), and the players and the computers are communicated/connected together through the Internet radios(30) or the docking stations(40). In the meantime, it is also possible to configure the players by only using connection between the players(lθ) and the docking stations(40). Besides, the players (10) extract and play audios by decoding the stored audio data, and the audios played from the players are outputted through the output devices (20). In this case, if the players(lθ) are connected with the Internet radios(30) instead of the output devices (20), the audios played from the players are outputted through speakers of the Internet radios(30). The players(lθ) can be configured as various multimedia terminals such as MP3 players, portable phones, PMPs(Portable Multimedia Players), and navigation systems, and desirably, they are configured in necklace or earring type for easy portability.

[53] Each player(lθ) comprises a display unit(l 1) for displaying a state of the player, an input unit(12) for processing a user's input, a controlled 13) for extracting audios by decoding downloaded and stored audio data and for encoding the extracted audios in output format to output the encoded audios, a storage unit(14) for storing the audio data, control programs, and an ID(fixed ID) of the player, a power supply unit(15) for supplying power to each component of the player, and a communication module(16) for providing an interface with the Internet radio(30) and the docking station(40). Desirably, a chargeable battery should be used for the power supply unit(15).

[54] The storage unit(14) stores the audio data, the control programs, the ID(fixed ID) of the player, first encoding algorithm, fifth encoding algorithm, a first encoding key, and a fifth encoding key. Desirably, the storage unit(14) stores the audio data in another area by separating the audio data from other programs and data. The ID of the player is a unique ID value assigned during manufacturing so as to identify the player from another player, and the assigned ID becomes hardware information of the player, that is to say, a fixed ID which is product information. The fixed ID is composed of a type of the player, manufacturing date, manufacturer, version, and manufacturing sequence. Therefore, IDs(fixed IDs) of the players(lθ) become different unique values for each player, which means that every player has a different ID (fixed ID) even though the players have the same specification. In addition, the above fixed IDs are used for encoding audios and decoding audio data when the audio data is downloaded from the audio server(300). The first encoding algorithm indicates algorithm where the audio server generates the audio data by encoding the audios and the players decode the downloaded audio data, while the fifth encoding algorithm refers to algorithm where the extracted audios are encoded to be transmitted to the output device(20) and the output device decodes the encoded audios. The first encoding key is a key used for encoding the audios and decoding the audio data by the first encoding algorithm, while the fifth encoding key is a key used for encoding/decoding the audios by the fifth encoding algorithm.

[55] The controller(13) controls operation of each configuration unit of the player(lθ), and allocates a mobile ID when the player connects with the audio server(300) to transmit the allocated mobile ID to the audio server together with the fixed ID, then downloads audio data for audios selected by the user from the audio server to store the downloaded audio data in the storage unit(14). Specifically, when the player(lθ) downloads the audio data by accessing the audio server(300), the controller(13) allocates and generates the mobile ID, and transmits a new IDl consisting of the fixed ID and the mobile ID to the audio server. At this time, the mobile ID consists of fields capable of recording audio versions, playing/storing methods, encoding information, downloading times, and memory size, and a default value such as 0 or NULL is inserted into each field. The audio server(300) inserts defined values into each field of the mobile ID of the IDl to process the mobile ID, and encodes the processed mobile ID with the fixed ID of the ID 1 to generate a first encoding key(ID 1 '). The audio server(300) generates audio data by encoding an audio selected by using the first encoding key. Likewise, the audio server(300) generates first encoding key in- formation(IDl") by encoding the first encoding key(IDl') one more time by using the fixed ID of the IDl, and inserts the generated encoding key information into a header, then transmits an audio data packet consisting of the header, the audio data, and checksum. On the other hand, the header may contain information on audios(ex, title, singer, etc.). The controlled 13) of the player(lθ) extracts the audio data from the audio data packet to store the extracted audio data in the storage unit(14), and decodes the first encoding key information(ID 1 ") of the header with the self ID(fixed ID) to extract the first encoding key(IDl'), then stores the extracted encoding key in the storage unit. It is also possible to store the first encoding key information(ID 1 ") in the storage unit(14) without extracting the first encoding key (ID I¹). Desirably, the controlled 13) extracts the mobile ID by decoding the first encoding key with the fixed ID, and stores the mobile ID after setting the audio data according to information inserted into each field of the mobile ID. In detail, if a playing/storing method field is set to permanent storage, the controlled 13) sets that the stored audio data cannot be randomly deleted, for instance, the controller randomly generates/assigns a code for deleting the corresponding audio data, and abolishes the code. Therefore, the user or a provider of an audio cannot delete the corresponding audio data. Also, in case playing times are set, the controlled 13) counts decoding/playing processes of the corresponding audio data by using a separate counter when the corresponding audio data is played, that is, whenever the corresponding audio data is decoded and played, and if the number of counted times and the playing times are equal, the controller sets a lock not to play the audio data so as to set that the stored audio data can be played as many as the playing times only.

[56] In addition, the controller(13) decodes/plays the downloaded and stored audio data according to the user's selection, and outputs the audio data through the output device(20). Specifically, the controller(13) extracts the audio by decoding the audio data with the use of the first encoding algorithm and the first encoding key (IDl') stored in the storage unit(14). If the first encoding key information (IDl") is stored instead of the first encoding key(IDl'), the controller(13) extracts the first encoding key by decoding the first encoding key information with the ID(fixed ID) of the player. On this occasion, since the ID(fixed ID) of the player for extracting the first encoding key(IDl') from the first encoding key information(IDl") is uniquely assigned to each player, first encoding keys used during an encoding process are different from each player even though the audio data is generated for the same audios, thereby realizing different sizes and configurations of the audio data. Accordingly, though the audio data leaks during a downloading process or audio data stored in a particular player (10) leaks and is stored in another player, it is impossible to obtain a first encoding key for the corresponding audio data because fixed IDs of each player are different, as a result, a normal decoding or playing function of the audio data is not available. The controlled 13) authenticates the output device(20) connected to the player(lθ) in order to output the decoded and played audios, and encodes the audios by using the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding key stored in the storage unit(14) to send the encoded audios to the output device.

[57]

[58] The output device(20) outputs the audios played by the player by being coupled with the player(lθ) in a wired or wireless way. Earphones, a headphone, a headset, and a portable phone can be used as the output device(20). The output device(20) comprises a communication module(21) for transceiving data with the player(lθ), a controller(22) for processing audios received from the player to output the processed audios, a converter(23) for converting digital audios received from the player into analog audios, an amplifier (24) for amplifying the converted audios, and a speaker (25) for outputting the amplified audios.

[59] When outputting the audios played by the player(lθ), the output device(20) outputs normal audios after authentication is performed through the player so as to prevent illegal usage of the audios. Namely, since the audio data stored in the player(lθ) is uniquely encoded data for the corresponding player, the authenticated output device(20) only should be used for the corresponding player. So, the player(lθ) and the output device(20) pass authentication processes for verifying validity of the output device, and only when authentication of the output device is executed, normal audios are transmitted and outputted. The authentication of the output device(20), for example, can be conducted by sending a confirmation code and a response code between the player and the output device. In this case, when a code(confirmation code) for authenticating the output device(20) is transmitted from the controller(13) of the player(lθ), the controller(22) of the output device(20) transmits a response code for the confirmation code. At this point, the response code can be a preset value for each output device(20) or a value for converting the confirmation code according to determined algorithm. The controlled 13) of the player(lθ) authenticates the output device(20) by deciding the received response code as a correct value, and transmits the encoded audios together with the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding key. The controller(22) of the output device(20) extracts normal audios by decoding the encoded audios with the use of the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding key, and the extracted audios are outputted through the converter(23), the amplifier(24), and the speaker(25). Therefore, the user can listen to the audios of normal sound quality. Meanwhile, if the output device(20) is not authenticated by the player(lθ), the player transmits the audio data or the encoded audios only without the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding key. Consequently, the output device cannot normally decode the audios while the user cannot use the normal audios. On the other hand, it is also possible to use a general output device as well as the output device(20) authenticated for the player(lθ). In this case, the player(lθ) transmits the extracted audios to the output device(20) as they are by decoding the audio data without a transceiving process of a confirmation code and a response code.

[60]

[61] The Internet radio(30) is a radio for outputting information provided from a contents provider as a voice over the Internet, and comprises a display unit(31) for displaying a state of the Internet radio, an input unit(32) for processing a user's input, a controller(33) for controlling operation of the Internet radio, a storage unit(34) for storing an ID(fixed ID) of the Internet radio and a control program, a power supplier(35), a communication module(36) for transceiving data in connection with the player(lθ) and the docking station(40), a converter(37) for converting data between analog and digital data, an amplifier(38) for amplifying audios, and a speaker(39) for outputting the amplified audios. The Internet radio(30) is also assigned with an ID for identifying from another Internet radio, that is, a fixed ID during manufacturing, and it is possible to identify each Internet radio online through assigned IDs. Thus, custom- made services set for each user, for instance, medication time guide, announcement, music broadcasting services, daily schedule and anniversary notification services for birthday can be provided. The above services become custom-made information for each person through the Internet radio(30) of a user according to a determined time or schedule by enabling the user to input schedule information after accessing and logging in a server of a contents provider.

[62] Moreover, the Internet radio(30) connects with the audio server(300) through the

Internet or wire/wireless communication network(200) by connecting with the computer(50) through the docking station (40) as being mounted with the player(lθ), and offers a downloading service of the audio data to the player. At this moment, when the Internet radio(30) connects with the audio server(300), the controller (33) allocates a mobile ID of the Internet radio, and transmits a new ID2 consisting of a fixed ID and the mobile ID to the audio server. In this case, like the mobile ID of the player, the mobile ID consists of fields capable of recording audio versions, playing/storing methods, encoding information, downloading times, and memory size, or consists of fields capable of recording random encoding keys. And, a default value such as 0 or NULL is inserted into each field. The audio server(300) inserts defined values or randomly generated values into each field of the mobile ID of the ID2, generates a second encoding key(ID2') by encoding the mobile ID with the fixed ID of the ID2, and encodes audio data, which is generated by being encoded with the first encoding key(IDl') of the player, into the second encoding key(ID2'). Also, the audio server(300) generates second encoding key information(ID2") by encoding the second encoding key(ID2') again with the use of the fixed ID of the ID2, and includes the generated encoding key information in a header of an audio data packet to send the packet. The controller(33) of the Internet radio(30) extracts second encoding key in- formation(ID2") from the header of the audio data packet, decodes the extracted encoding key information with the self ID (fixed ID) to extract the second encoding key (JDT), and decodes the audio data with the second encoding key to send the decoded audio data to the player(lθ). Desirably, the storage unit(34) of the Internet radio(30) further stores the second encoding algorithm and the decoded second encoding key together with the fixed ID of the Internet radio and the control program. The second encoding algorithm indicates algorithm for encoding/decoding the audio data by using the second encoding key.

[63] In the meantime, when the Internet radio(30) is connected with the player(lθ), the audios played from the player are outputted through the speaker(39) of the Internet radio, and audio information, that is, audio information included in a header of a data packet transmitted from the audio server(300) is displayed through the display unit(31). Furthermore, the power supplier(15) of the player(lθ), that is to say, a battery can be charged through the power supplier(35).

[64]

[65] The docking station (40) connects the player(lθ) or the Internet radio(30) with the computer(50) or to the Internet or wire/wireless communication network(200). The docking station is also assigned with a distinguishable ID(fixed ID). The docking station (40) comprises a display unit(41) for displaying a state of the docking station, a controller(42) for controlling operation of the docking station, a storage unit(43) for storing an ID(fixed ID) of the docking station and a control program, a power supplier(44), and a communication module(45) for supporting downloading of the audio data from the audio server(300) as well as data transceiving in connection with the player(lθ) or the Internet radio(30) and the computer(50) or the Internet or wire/ wireless communication network(200). In this case, the communication module(45) has wire/wireless communication ports and a data transmission port to communicate/ connect with the player(lθ), the Internet radio(30), the computer(50), and the Internet or wire/wireless communication network(200). Desirably, a TCP/IP port is used as the wire communication port while a Bluetooth port is used as the wireless communication port, and a USB port can be usable as the data transmission port. Besides, the storage unit(43) of the docking station(40) can play a buffer role for temporarily storing the audio data transmitted to the player(lθ) when the audio data is downloaded. When the docking station connects with the audio server(300), the controller (42) of the docking station(40) allocates a mobile ID of the docking station, and transmits a new ID3 consisting of the mobile ID and a fixed ID to the audio server. The mobile ID of the docking station also consists of fields capable of recording audio versions, playing/ storing methods, encoding information, downloading times, and memory size, or consists of fields capable of recording random encoding keys. A default value such as 0 or NULL is inserted into each field. The audio server(300) inserts defined values or randomly generated values into each field of the mobile ID of the ID3, and generates a third encoding key(ID3') by encoding the mobile ID with the fixed ID of the ID3. The audio server(300) encodes audio data, which is encoded with the second encoding key(ID2') of the Internet radio and the first encoding key (IDl') of the player, by using the third encoding key(ID3'), and generates third encoding key information(ID3") by encoding the third encoding key(ID3') again with the use of the fixed ID of the ID3, then includes the generated encoding key information in a header of an audio data packet to send the packet. The controller(42) of the docking station(40) extracts the third encoding key information(ID3") from the header of the audio data packet, decodes the extracted encoding key information with the self ID (fixed ID) to extract the third encoding key(ID3'), and decodes the audio data with the third encoding key to transmit the decoded audio data to the Internet radio(30). Desirably, the storage unit(43) of the docking station(40) further stores the third encoding algorithm and the decoded third encoding key together with the fixed ID of the docking station and the control program. The third encoding algorithm indicates algorithm for encoding/ decoding the audio data by using the third encoding key.

[66]

[67] The computer(50) is connected to the player(lθ) or the Internet radio(30) through the docking station (40), and is connected with the audio server(300) through the Internet or wire/wireless communication network(200), so that the user can download audios after selecting and paying for the audios. Various payment methods such as mobile phone small-sum payment, credit card, gift certificate, and transferring methods can be usable as payment methods of the audios.

[68]

[69] The audio server(300) individually generates the first encoding key(IDl'), the second encoding key(ID2'), and the third encoding key(ID3') by using the fixed IDs of the player(lθ), the Internet radio(30), and the docking station(40), and generates audio data by sequentially encoding user-selected audios with the first to third encoding keys, then transmits the audio data to the player. In detail, the audio server(300) generates the audio data by encoding the user-selected audios with the first encoding key, and repeatedly encodes the audio data with the second encoding key and the third encoding key. Moreover, the audio server(300) generates the first encoding key in- formation(IDl") by encoding the first encoding key(IDl') with the fixed ID of the player, and generates the second encoding key information(ID2") and the third encoding key information(ID3'") by individually encoding the second encoding key(ID2') and the third encoding key(ID3') with the fixed IDs of the Internet radio(30) and the docking station(40). The audio server(300) includes the first encoding key information, the second encoding key information, and the third encoding key information in the header, and generates the audio data packet consisting of the header, the encoded audio data, and checksum to send the generated audio data packet. Desirably, the audio server(300) stores details of audios selected and purchased by each user or details of audios downloaded to each player(lθ). At this time, with regards to already purchased and paid audios, the audios can be downloaded or re-downloaded without a separate billing process later.

[70]

[71] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an encoding method of audio data in accordance with the present invention. Referring to Fig. 5, the encoding method of the audio data in accordance with the present invention will be described as follows.

[72] When a player(lθ) is connected to an audio server(300), a controlled 13) of the player(lθ) allocates a mobile ID of the player, and transmits IDl consisting of a fixed ID and the mobile ID to the audio server. Likewise, when an Internet radio(30) and a docking station(40) are connected to the audio server(300), controllers(33,42) of the Internet radio and the docking station also allocate mobile IDs, and transmit ID2 and ID3 consisting of fixed IDs and the mobile IDs to the audio server. The audio server authenticates whether the player, the Internet radio, and the docking station are authentic through the fixed IDs of the player, the Internet radio, and the docking station included in the IDl, the ID2, and the ID3.

[73] A user accesses and logs in the audio server(300) through a computer(50), and selects an audio. The audio server(300) inserts defined values into each field of the mobile ID of the ID 1 of the player, and encodes the mobile ID with the fixed ID of the IDl to generate a first encoding key (IDl') of the player, then encodes the selected audio(D) with the first encoding key(ID 1 ') of the player to generate audio data(IDl'+D). Likewise, the audio server(300) inserts defined values or randomly generated values into each field of the mobile IDs of the ID2 of the Internet radio and the ID3 of the docking station, and individually encodes the mobile IDs of the ID2 and the ID3 into which certain values are inserted, with the fixed IDs of the ID2 and the ID3, then generates a second encoding key(ID2') and a third encoding key(ID3'). The audio server(300) sequentially encodes the audio data encoded by the first encoding key with the second encoding key and the third encoding key(IDl'+ID2'+ID3'+D). Also, the audio server(300) encodes the user's login information(ID4) to generate a fourth encoding key(ID4'), and encodes the audio data encoded with the first to third encoding keys, with the fourth encoding key(IDl^l+ID2'+ID3¹+ID4'+D).

[74] Moreover, the audio server(300) encodes the first encoding key (IDl') with the fixed

ID of the IDl to generate first encoding key information(IDl"), and individually encodes the second encoding key(ID2') and the third encoding key(ID3') with the fixed IDs of the ID2 and the ID3 to generate second encoding key information(ID2") and third encoding key information(ID3"). The audio server(300) inserts the first, the second, and the third encoding key information into a header, and generates an audio data packet consisting of the header, audio data, and checksum to send the generated packet. At this time, since the audio(D) is encoded by the four encoding keys(IDl', ID2¹, ID3¹, ID4') without being encoded with only one encoding key, security levels can be remarkably improved.

[75] The user's computer(50) decodes the audio data(IDl'+ID2'+ID3'+ID4'+D) of the audio data packet transmitted from the audio server(300) with the fourth encoding key(ID4') for the user's login information, and transmits the decoded audio data to the docking station(40). On this occasion, the transmitted audio data is in ID1'+ID2'+ID3'+D type. Desirably, the user's computer(50) stores fourth encoding algorithm and the fourth encoding key. The fourth encoding algorithm indicates algorithm for encoding/decoding the audio data by using the fourth encoding key.

[76] The controller(42) of the docking station(40) extracts the third encoding key in- formation(ID3") from the header of the audio data packet transmitted from the computer (50), and decodes the extracted encoding key information with the self fixed ID to extract the third encoding key(ID3'). The controller(42) of the docking station(40) decodes the audio data(IDl'+ID2'+ID3'+D) of the audio data packet by using third encoding algorithm and the third encoding key of a storage(43), and transmits the decoded audio data to the Internet radio(30). In this case, the transmitted audio data is in ID1'+ID2'+D type.

[77] The controller(33) of the Internet radio(30) extracts the second encoding key in- formation(ID2") from the header of the audio data packet transmitted from the docking station (40), and decodes the extracted encoding key information with the fixed ID of the Internet radio to extract the second encoding key(ID2'). The controller (33) of the Internet radio(30) decodes the audio data(IDl'+ID2'+D) of the audio data packet by using the the second encoding key and the second encoding key algorithm of a storage(34), and transmits the audio data packet to the player(lθ). At this moment, the transmitted audio data is in ID1'+D type.

[78] The controlled 13) of the player(lθ) extracts the first encoding key in- formation(IDl") from the header of the audio data packet transmitted from the Internet radio(30), and decodes the extracted encoding key information with the fixed ID of the player to extract the first encoding key(IDl'), then stores the audio data(IDl'+D) of the audio data packet and the first encoding key(IDl') in a storage(14).

[79] If the user demands playback of the audio data, the controlled 13) of the player(lθ) extracts the audio(D) by decoding the audio data with the use of the first encoding key(IDl') and the first encoding algorithm of the storage(14). The controlled 13) of the player(lθ) authenticates an output device(20) by using a confirmation code and a response code, and encodes the audio(D) with a fifth encoding key(K)¹) to transmit the encoded audio(ID'+D) to the output device. At this point, the fifth encoding key(ID') and fifth encoding algorithm are also transmitted to the output device. [80] A controller(22) of the output device(20) decodes the encoded audio(ID'+D) by using the fifth encoding key(ID') and the fifth encoding algorithm, and outputs the decoded audio(D) through a speaker(25).

[81]

[82] Fig. 6 shows a state diagram of using system for downloading and playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention. Like shown in Fig. 6, the systems(lOO) for downloading and playing the audio data uniquely generated for the individual players in accordance with the present invention can be configured by connecting players(lθ), Internet radios(30), docking stations(40), and computers(50) in various types.

[83] In detail, when audio data is downloaded to the players(lθ), the system can be configured by connecting the player(lθ), the Internet radio(30), and the computer(50) like shown in Fig. 6(a), or can be configured by connecting the player(lθ), the docking station(40), and the computer(50) like shown in Fig. 6(c). In case of Fig. 6(a), it is also possible to connect the docking station between the Internet radio and the computer.

[84] In addition, when unique functions of the Internet radio(30) are used, it is possible to configure the system by directly connecting the Internet radio to an Internet or wire/ wireless communication network(200) through the docking station(40) like shown in Fig. 6(b).

[85] Also, when the player(lθ) and the Internet radio(30) are directly connected like shown in Fig. 6(d), an audio played from the player can be outputted through a speaker(39) of the Internet radio.

[86]

[87] Fig. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a process of downloading audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention. Referring to Fig. 7, the process of downloading the audio data uniquely generated for the individual players in accordance with the present invention will be described as follows.

[88] When a player(lθ), an Internet radio(30), and a docking station(40) are connected to an audio server(300) through an Internet or wire/wireless communication network(200), each of controllers(13,33,42) allocates mobile IDs of each device, and transmits ID 1 , ID2, and ID3 consisting of the mobile IDs and fixed IDs to the audio server(ST100,ST110). Specifically, the controller(13) of the player(lθ) allocates each field which constitutes a mobile ID, inserts 0 or NULL into the allocated fields as a default value, and transmits the ID 1 consisting of the mobile ID and a fixed ID of the player to the audio server(300). Likewise, the controllers(33,42) of the Internet radio(30) and the docking station(40) also allocate mobile IDs of each device, insert 0 or NULL as a default value, and transmit the ID2 and the ID3 consisting of the allocated mobile IDs and fixed IDs of each device to the audio server(300). The audio server(300) identifies and authenticates each device by using the fixed IDs of the player(lθ), the Internet radio(30), and the docking station(40) included in the IDl, the ID2, and the ID3 (ST 120).

[89] A user accesses and logs in the audio server(300) by using a computer(50), selects an audio to be downloaded, and sets a storing method and playing times(ST130).

[90] The audio server(300) encodes the ID 1 , the ID2, and the ID3 transmitted from the player(lθ), the Internet radio(30), and the docking station(40), as well as the user's login information ID4 , and generates the first to fourth encoding keys(ST140). Specifically, the audio server(300) inserts defined values into each field of the mobile ID of the IDl of the player. More specifically, information on the user-selected audio and setup information are inserted into an audio version field, a playing/storing method field, an encoding information field, a downloading times-field, and a memory size field of the mobile ID. The audio server(300) encodes the mobile ID with the fixed ID of the ID 1 to generate a first encoding key(ID 1 ') of the player. Likewise, the audio server(300) inserts defined values into each field of the mobile ID of the ID2 of the Internet radio(30) and the mobile ID of the ID3 of the docking station, and individually encodes the mobile IDs with the fixed IDs of the ID2 and the ID3 to generate a second encoding key(ID2') and a third encoding key(ID3'). In this case, it is available to insert randomly generated values into fields of the mobile IDs of the ID2 and the ID3. Furthermore, the audio server(300) also encodes the user's login information(ID4) according to determined rules to generate a fourth encoding key(ID4').

[91] The audio server(300) encodes a selected audio(D) with the first encoding key (IDl¹) to generate audio data(ST150). Besides, the audio server(300) sequentially encodes the generated audio data with the second encoding key(ID2'), the third encoding key(ID3'), and the fourth encoding key(ID4').

[92] The audio server(300) individually encodes the first to third encoding keys(IDl',

ID2¹, ID3¹) with the fixed IDs of the IDl, the ID2, and the ID3 to generate first, second, and third encoding key information(IDl", ID2", ID3"), and generates an audio data packet consisting of a header including each piece of the encoding key information, the encoded audio data, and checksum to transmit the generated packet(ST160). The user's computer(50) decodes the audio data of the audio data packet with the fourth encoding key(ID4') for the login information, and transmits the decoded audio data to the docking station(40).

[93] The controller(42) of the docking station(40) decodes the third encoding key in- formation(ID3") included in the header of the audio data packet with the self fixed ID to extract the third encoding key(ID3'), and decodes the audio data with the third encoding key to transmit the decoded audio data to the Internet radio(30)(ST170).

[94] The controller(33) of the Internet radio(30) also decodes the second encoding key information(ID2") included in the header of the audio data packet with the self fixed ID to extract the second encoding key(ID2'), and decodes the audio data with the second encoding key, then transmits the decoded audio data to the player(lθ).

[95] The transmitted audio data packet is received in a communication module(16) of the player(lθ), and the controlled 13) of the player decodes the first encoding key in- formation(IDl") included in the header of the received audio data packet with the self fixed ID to extract the first encoding key(IDl'), and decodes the first encoding key with the fixed ID again to extract a mobile ID. The controller(13) of the player(lθ) extracts the audio data from the audio data packet, and sets/stores the extracted audio data in a storage(14) according to information set in each field of the mobile ID(ST180,ST190). In detail, whether to permanently store the audio data is set according to a storing method of audio setup information, and if playing times are set, a separate counter is set. Desirably, the first encoding key (IDl') of the player is also stored.

[96]

[97] Meanwhile, though Fig. 7 illustrates an embodiment that the player(lθ) is connected to both of the Internet radio(30) and the docking station(40), if the player is connected to one of the Internet radio and the docking station like shown in Fig. 6(a) and Fig. 6(c), the audio data can be downloaded according to the above process as well.

[98] Specifically, if the player(lθ), the Internet radio(30), and the computer(50) are connected like shown in Fig. 6(a), only the IDl and the ID2 of the player and the Internet radio are transmitted in the steps STlOO and STl 10, and the audio server(300) generates the first encoding key (IDl') and the second encoding key(ID2') in the steps ST 140 to ST 160, and encodes the audio(D) to generate the audio data and the audio data packet, then sends the generated audio data and audio data packet.

[99] Likewise, if the player(lθ), the docking station(40), and the computer(50) are connected like shown in Fig. 6(c), only the IDl and the ID3 of the player and the docking station are transmitted, and the audio server(300) generates the first encoding key(IDl') and the third encoding key(ID3') in the steps ST140 to ST160, and encodes the audio(D) to generate the audio data and the audio data packet, then sends the generated audio data and audio data packet.

[100]

[101] Fig. 8 is a flow chart illustrating a process of playing audio data uniquely generated for individual players in accordance with the present invention. Referring to Fig. 8, the process of playing the audio data uniquely generated for the individual players in accordance with the present invention will be described as follows.

[102] When a user selects playback of audio data stored in a player(lθ), a controlled 13) of the player authenticates whether a connected output device(20) is a correct output device, that is, whether the output device is allowed with validity. First, the controlled 13) of the player (10) transmits a confirmation code for authenticating the output device(20)(ST200). At this time, if the output device(20) is the correct output device, that is, if the output device has the validity for the player(lθ), a controller(22) of the output device transmits a response code corresponding to the confirmation code to the player. On the other hand, if the output device(20) refers to general output devices such as earphones or headphones without the controller (22), no signal is transmitted for the confirmation code.

[103] Also, if the output device(20) does not have validity for the player(lθ), a response code transmitted from the output device may not be a correct value corresponding to the confirmation code.

[104] The controlled 13) of the player(lθ) confirms whether a response code is received, and if the response code is received, it is decided whether the received response code is a correct value corresponding to the confirmation code(ST210,ST220).

[105] If the correct response code is received from the output device(20) in the steps

ST210 and ST220, the controlled 13) of the player(lθ) decodes the selected audio data with a first encoding key (ID I¹) of the player to extract an audio(ST230). In addition, the controller(13) of the player(lθ) encodes the audio again by using a fifth encoding key and fifth encoding algorithm(ST240). The step ST230 or ST240 can be carried out before the step ST200. Namely, if the user selects playback of the audio data, the controlled 13) of the player(lθ) decodes the audio data to extract the audio, and can encode the extracted audio again to authenticate the output device(20).

[106] The controlled 13) of the player(lθ) extracts the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding key stored in a storage(14) to send the extracted algorithm and encoding key to the output device(20), and transmits the audio encoded in the step ST240 to the output device(ST250,ST260). The steps ST250 and ST260 can be performed regardless of order.

[107] The controller(22) of the output device(20) decodes the encoded audio by using the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding key received in the step ST250, and extracts the audio(ST270). The audio extracted in the step ST270 is outputted through a converter(23), an amplifier(24), and a speaker(25) of the output device(20)(ST280).

[108] In the meantime, if a response code is not received from the output device(20) in the step ST210 or if the response code received in the ST220 is not correct, the controlled 13) of the player (10) transmits the audio data to the output device as it is without decoding the audio data, or transmits the audio encoded in the step ST240 without sending the fifth encoding algorithm an the fifth encoding key(ST290). Therefore, the user cannot use an audio of normal sound quality. [109] On the other hand, though Fig. 8 illustrates an embodiment that the audio played from the player(lθ) is outputted through the output device(20), it is also possible to output the audio through a speaker(39) of the Internet radio by connecting the player with the Internet radio(30) according to the same process as Fig. 8. That is to say, it is possible that the player(lθ) and the Internet radio(30) exchange a confirmation code and a response code to authenticate the Internet radio while the player transmits the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding key to the Internet radio together with the encoded audio, thereby outputting an audio of normal sound quality for the authenticated Internet radio only.

[110]

[111] Though the above embodiment illustrates that the player(lθ) downloads and uses the audio data for the audio whose copyright is protected from the audio server(300), it is also possible to be commonly applied to various types of data whose copyright is protected in addition to the copyright-protected audio. For example, in case of videos whose copyright is protected such as movies, broadcasting contents, and video lectures, or texts(documents) whose copyright is protected such as novels, teaching materials, correspondence materials and transcripts, it is possible to encode, download, and store the videos or the texts (documents) by using the ID of the player in the same method as the above. And, when the videos or the texts (documents) are outputted through the output device(20), the contents can be provided in normal picture quality and normal sound quality after the output device is authenticated.

Claims

[1] In an audio service system comprising more than one audio data downloading and playing system consisting of an audio server for generating audio data by encoding audios selected by each user among audios whose copyright is protected, by using first encoding keys (ID I¹) uniquely generated for each user's players where the audios are to be stored, and the players equipped for each user and for downloading the audio data generated for the user-selected audios from the audio server to store the downloaded audio data, as the audio data downloading and playing system for downloading and using the audio data generated by uniquely encoding the user-selected audios according to each user's individual players, comprising: the players assigned with fixed IDs which are unique ID values including product information, storing the audio data by receiving audio data packets, which are composed of headers including first encoding key information(IDl") generated by encoding the first encoding keys(IDl'), the audio data, and checksum, from the audio server, and extracting and playing the audios by decoding the stored audio data; and output devices for outputting the audios played from the players by being connected to the players; and wherein the players, comprising: controllers for extracting the first encoding key information(IDl") from the headers of the audio data packets, extracting the first encoding keys(IDl') by decoding the first encoding key information(IDl") by using the fixed IDs of the players as keys, and for extracting and playing the audios by decoding the stored audio data by using the first encoding keys(IDl') as keys; and storage units for storing the fixed IDs of the players, first encoding algorithm for encoding/decoding the audio data, and the audio data; and wherein the audio server generates the first encoding key information(IDl") by encoding the first encoding keys(IDl') by using the fixed IDs of the players for downloading the audio data as keys.

[2] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 1 , wherein the fixed

IDs of the players contain types of the players, manufacturing date, manufacturers, versions, and manufacturing sequence.

[3] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 1, wherein when the players connect with the audio server, the controllers of the players assign mobile IDs having more than one field, transmit ID 1 consisting of the fixed IDs of the players and the assigned mobile IDs to the audio server, while the audio server generates the first encoding keys(IDl') by encoding the mobile IDs with the fixed IDs of the IDl after inserting preset values into each field of the mobile IDs of the IDl.

[4] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 1 , wherein the mobile

IDs contain audio versions which are versions of the user-selected audios, information on whether to permanently store the audio data, playing/storing methods indicative of the number of times of the audio data being played, encoding information, download frequency indicative of the number of times of the audio data being downloaded again, and memory size indicative of the remaining memory capacities of the players.

[5] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 4, wherein if the playing/storing methods are set to permanent storage of the audio data, the controllers of the players randomly generate and assign codes for deleting the audio data, and abolish the assigned codes.

[6] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 1 , wherein when the audios extracted by decoding the audio data are played, the controllers of the players transmit confirmation codes for authenticating the output devices to the output devices, and the output devices transmit response codes corresponding to the confirmation codes to the players.

[7] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 6, wherein the storage units of the players further store fifth encoding algorithm and fifth encoding keys for encoding/decoding the extracted/played audios, and the controllers of the players encode the played audios by using the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding keys to send the encoded audios to the output devices, and transmit the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding keys to the output devices if the response codes received from the output devices are reasonable values corresponding to the confirmation codes.

[8] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 7, wherein the output devices include controllers which extract the audios by decoding the encoded audios with the use of the fifth encoding algorithm and the fifth encoding keys.

[9] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 1, wherein the audio data downloading and playing systems further comprise Internet radios for outputting information provided by contents providers as voices, being assigned with fixed IDs which are unique ID values including product information, and for communicating/connecting the players to the audio server through an Internet or wire/wireless communication network by being coupled with the players, and the Internet radios, comprising: speakers for outputting the audios played from the players; and controllers for assigning mobile IDs having more than one field and sending ID2 consisting of the fixed IDs of the Internet radios and the assigned mobile IDs to the audio server, when the Internet radios are connected to the audio server.

[10] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 9, wherein the audio server generates second encoding keys(ID2') by encoding the mobile IDs with the fixed IDs of the ID2 after inserting certain values into each field of the mobile IDs of the ID2, generates second encoding key information(ID2") by encoding the second encoding keys(ID2') with the fixed IDs of the ID2, and do uble encodes the audio data encoded with the first encoding keys (IDl') by using the second encoding keys(ID2'), then includes the second encoding key in- formation(ID2") in headers of audio data packets as including the encoded audio data in the audio data packets to send the packets, and the controllers of the Internet radios extract the second encoding keys(ID2') by decoding the second encoding key information(ID2") included in the headers of the audio data packets by using the fixed IDs of the Internet radios as keys, decode the audio data of the audio data packets by using the second encoding keys(ID2') as keys, and transmit the decoded audio data to the players.

[11] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 1, wherein the audio data downloading and playing systems further comprise docking stations assigned with fixed IDs which are unique ID values including product information, and for communicating/connecting the players to the audio server through an Internet or wire/wireless communication network by being coupled with the players, and the docking stations, comprising: controllers for assigning mobile IDs having more than one field and sending ID3 consisting of the fixed IDs of the docking stations and the assigned mobile IDs to the audio server, when the docking stations are connected to the audio server.

[12] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 11, wherein the audio server generates third encoding keys(ID3') by encoding the mobile IDs with the fixed IDs of ID3 after inserting certain values into each field of the mobile IDs of the ID3, generates third encoding key information(ID3") by encoding the third encoding keys(ID3') with the fixed IDs of the ID3, and double encodes the audio data encoded with the first encoding keys(IDl') by using the third encoding keys(ID3'), then includes the third encoding key information(ID3") in the headers of the audio data packets as including the encoded audio data in the audio data packets to send the packets, and the controllers of the docking stations extract the third encoding keys(ID3') by decoding the third encoding key information(ID3") included in the headers of the audio data packets by using the fixed IDs of the docking stations as keys, decode the audio data of the audio data packets by using the third encoding keys(ID3') as keys, and transmit the decoded audio data to the players.

[13] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 1, wherein the systems, further comprising:

Internet radios for outputting information provided by contents providers as voices, being assigned with fixed IDs which are unique ID values including product information, and being connected to the players; and docking stations assigned with fixed IDs which are unique ID values including product information, and communicating/connecting the players and the Internet radios with the audio server through an Internet or wire/wireless communication network by being connected with the Internet radios, and the Internet radios, comprising: speakers for outputting the audios played from the players; and controllers for assigning mobile IDs having more than one field when the Internet radios are connected with the audio server, and transmitting ID2 consisting of the fixed IDs of the Internet radios and the assigned mobile IDs to the audio server, and the docking stations comprise controllers for assigning mobile IDs having having more than one field when the docking stations are connected with the audio server, and for transmitting ID3 consisting of the fixed IDs of the docking stations and the assigned mobile IDs to the audio server.

[14] The audio data downloading and playing systems of claim 13, wherein the audio server generates second encoding keys(ID2') by encoding the mobile IDs with the fixed IDs of the ID2 after inserting certain values into each field of the mobile IDs of the ID2, generates third encoding keys(ID3') by encoding the mobile IDs with the fixed IDs of ID3 after inserting certain values into each field of the mobile IDs of the ID3, generates second encoding key information(ID2") by encoding the second encoding keys(ID2') with the fixed IDs of the ID 2, and generates third encoding key information(ID3") by encoding the third encoding keys(ID3') with the fixed IDs of the ID3, and sequentially encodes the audio data encoded with the first encoding keys(IDl') by using the second encoding keys(ID2') and the third encoding keys(ID3'), and includes the second encoding key information(ID2") and the third encoding key information(ID3") in headers of audio data packets as including the encoded audio data in the audio data packets to send the packets, and the controllers of the docking stations extract the third encoding keys(ID3') by decoding the third encoding key information(ID3") included in the headers of the audio data packets by using the fixed IDs of the docking stations as keys, decode the audio data of the audio data packets by using the third encoding keys(ID3') as keys, and transmit the decoded audio data to the Internet radios, and the controllers of the Internet radios extract the second encoding keys(ID2') by decoding the second encoding key information(ID2") included in the headers of the audio data packets by using the fixed IDs of the Internet radios as keys, and decode the audio data of the audio data packets by using the second encoding keys(ID2') as keys to send the decoded audio data to the players.