CN101438528A - Method, system, and network for selectively controlling the utility a target - Google Patents

Abstract

A distribution control system is provided to support the controlled and selective changing of utility for a target. The target with controlled utility may be an electronic device, or alternatively, may be a tangible media, such as an optical disc. The distribution control system has a target with a change effecting device and a restricted access key. An activation device retrieves or generates an authorization key, and sends the authorization key to the target. The authorization key may be sent to the target wirelessly, for example, using a radio frequency signal. The target has logic that uses the restricted access key and the authorization key to change the utility of the target. In one example, the activation device retrieves the authorization key from a network operation center (NOC) by sending a target identifier to the NOC, and the NOC retrieves the authorization key for the identified target. The activation device may also connect to other systems for obtaining approval to change the utility of the target. For example, the authorization key may be sent to the target upon receiving payment, password, or other confirmation.

Description

Method, system and network for selectively controlling object utility

related application

The application requires the U.S. provisional patent application 60/622, the priority of No. 137 submitted on October 26th, 2004, and the title of this application is " A Method and System for Affecting the Utility of a Target "; The application requires December 2004 Priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/633,971, filed February 7, entitled "AMethod and Means of RF Activation of a Target"; this application claims U.S. Provisional Patent Application 60, filed February 18, 2005 /654,384, the title of the application is "A Method and Means of RF Activation of a Target", all three patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

technical field

[0002] The present invention relates to objects that can selectively have their utility controlled, and methods and apparatus for altering the utility of the object. In one embodiment, the present invention may use radio frequency (RF) devices and methods to selectively control the utility of durable items such as electronic devices or optical media.

Background technique

[0003] Theft is a growing problem in the distribution of products. For example, electronic devices are getting smaller and smaller in size, but more and more useful. But just because these electronic devices are getting smaller and more powerful, thieves are more likely to steal them and prefer to steal them. Devices such as digital cameras, DVD players, MP3 players, and game consoles are common targets of theft, not just by customers in retail stores but by others in the distribution chain . For example, employees of retail stores, shippers, warehouse managers, and even employees of manufacturers often steal products, or even take them away in boxes, keep them for themselves, or sell them without permission. Additionally, other types of products such as DVDs, CDs, game discs, game cartridges, and other types of media are also subject to theft. Stealing these products is easy and preferred by thieves due to their high demand, smaller size and more expensive prices.

[0004] From the manufacturer where the product is manufactured to the point of sale (POS) where the product is sold, these places that sell large quantities of high-value consumer goods are always vulnerable to the threat of theft. Therefore, various security measures are adopted to reduce theft (cameras, security guards, electronic tags, or locking valuables in the counter, etc.). Nonetheless, manufacturers and retailers lose billions of dollars each year due to theft of valuable merchandise such as DVDs, CDs, video games, portable video game consoles, DVD players, digital cameras, computers, printers, televisions, and the like.

What the rampant of theft brings is the increase of commodity production cost, transportation cost and sales cost. Organizations at all levels of the distribution chain are at risk of theft, and steps are taken to control or reduce the level of theft loss. The ultimate bearers of these losses are those legitimate buyers, which is equivalent to asking them to bear an unfair "stolen tax" when purchasing products. In addition, since merchandise is relatively easy to steal at retail, retailers must take additional steps to ensure product security. For example, DVDs, CDs, and small electronic devices are often packaged in an oversized box so that they cannot be easily concealed. However, large packaging boxes hinder customers' understanding of the product inside, which ultimately makes the product less attractive. As another example, a retail store can store valuables and items that are prone to theft in locked counters. This completely separates the retail customer from the merchandise, which reduces the risk of theft but also makes it difficult to sell the merchandise. Customers do not have access to the full label information of the products in the locked counters, nor do they have physical access to these products. In order to get the products, they must communicate with the retail clerk who has the key. Another attempted solution is for retail stores to place security tags on items and then invalidate the tags at checkout at the checkout desk once the item has been purchased. If a customer leaves the retail store with a valid tag, an alarm will go off. Security guards or clerks will stop the customer and confirm whether the customer has stolen the product. This process can be dangerous for security guards and shop assistants, and legitimate consumers are also under pressure due to too many false alarms.

All above-mentioned methods all can not prevent theft completely, have reduced the attractiveness of this retail mode to the customer on the contrary. Thus, in order to attract customers and provide a relaxed shopping environment, retailers have to accept a certain degree (sometimes a high percentage) of theft. And neither oversized boxes, locked counters, nor security guards can do anything about the fairly serious theft that occurs between the manufacturer and the retail store shelf. As a result, the entire distribution chain becomes accustomed to "acceptable" theft and shifts the cost of theft onto legitimate consumers.

[0007] Commodity distribution also faces other problems. For example, customers need to choose products with a specific set of functions or utilities, and they also hope that the purchased products can meet their specific needs. Therefore, manufacturers often design a product as different models, each with different characteristics. While this satisfies the needs of consumers, it also makes the process of product production, shipping, inventory counting, inventory and retailing cumbersome. This problem exists in the configuration of goods such as electronics, computers, game consoles, DVDs, CDs, game cartridges. For a specific example, a DVD movie disc has a home edition, a theater edition, and an "unabridged" edition. Each version has a different age limit and is aimed at a different important market. Therefore, the three different versions of DVDs must be produced, shipped, inventoried, inventoried and managed simultaneously. Similar problems exist in game consoles, computers, and other commodities.

[0008] Commodity distribution also faces another problem. Sometimes commodities are leased to consumers for a period of time. A typical example in the rental business model is the rental of optical media such as DVDs. The rental model of content stored on physical media (ie, videotapes or movies recorded on optical discs) generally depends on the actual circulation of the media, especially its checkout from and return to rental outlets. In the rental method with time as the billing unit, the rent is more or less related to the time the customer holds the leased item (for example, the time from borrowing to returning). In the loan-maximization approach, the rent is related to the amount lent minus the amount returned. In the lease return maximization method, the rent is related to the frequency of lending and returning. Each of these lending methods has some considerable limitations. First, there is a transportation fee for each rental, regardless of the frequency of the rental. Second, there is a time delay between when the consumer decides to rent and when the loan can be used.

[0009] The defects of this type of rental method can be illustrated by the audio-visual rental industry. In traditional audio-visual rental stores, every time consumers want to rent a movie to watch, they must go to the audio-visual store to choose a movie, and they must return to the store after watching it. The time a consumer is charged for a rental depends on when the movie is checked out from the video store and when it is returned and recorded in inventory. In this model, consumers bear the cost of transportation to and from the video store. Consumers also suffer from the time lag between renting a movie and making a selection and actually watching it. The audiovisual store also has to bear the higher operating costs of each movie rental, inventory, lending, and return.

[0010] Even with other means of transportation, such as by US mail, there is a time lag between the user selecting the movie, renting the movie, and viewing the movie. If the maximum circulation or the maximum frequency is used as the billing method, the time difference will be greater until the movie is returned to the retailer, stored in the warehouse, and then other movies are selected. In both cases the retailer also bears virtually duplicate shipping and handling costs. Other services, such as authorization, activation, verification, etc., of tangible media such as tickets, coupons, vouchers, credit cards, product labels, security devices, memory cards, removable storage computer storage devices (optical and magnetic disks) have similar limits.

[0011] Similar difficulties exist with the non-commercial distribution of goods. For example, the military stores, transports and maintains weapons and equipment that are prone to theft and misuse. These weapons must be available at all times, but must be sufficiently controlled to prevent them from falling into enemy hands or being misused without the military's approval.

Contents of the invention

[0012] The present invention provides a distribution control system for specified objects that supports controlled and selective modification of the utility of objects. The object with controlled utility may be an electronic device, or alternatively, a tangible medium such as an optical disc. The distribution control system has an object that has a change implementer and a restricted access key. The activation device is used to obtain or generate an authorization key, and then send the key to the subject. The manner in which the authorization key is sent to the subject may be wireless, for example using radio frequency signals. Objects have logic that uses restricted access keys and authorization keys to change the object's utility. For example, the activation device obtains the authorization key from the NOC by sending the object identifier to the Network Operations Center (NOC), and the NOC gets the authorization key for the identified object. The activation device can also be connected to other systems for obtaining permission to change the object's utility. For example, upon receipt of a payment, password, or other confirmation, send an authorization key to a designated object.

[0013] The present invention provides utility controlled objects, and methods of changing the utility of objects. The utility controlled object may be an electronic device, or alternatively, a tangible medium such as an optical disc. The controlled object has a change implementing means set to a first state which allows the object to behave according to a first utility. The controlled object also has a receiver for receiving an authorization key, and logic for selectively controlling the change implementing means to reach a second state in response to the authorization key. When the change implementing means is in the second state, the object can operate according to the second utility. In one example, the controlled object carries a limited-access key stored during production, which is used by logic when changing the state of the change-implementation device. In order to change the utility of the controlled object, the activation device is set near the controlled object. After the activation device reads the accessible identifier from the controlled object, it obtains or generates an authorization key associated with the object. The activation device can be connected with the network operation center or other entities to obtain the authorization key, and then obtain the permission to change the utility of the controlled object. Once approved, the activation device can send the authorization code to the controlled object.

[0014] In a specific example of the distribution control system, the controlled object is produced with a change implementation device for limiting the utility of the object. This way, the restricted object is of little use to a thief and thus less likely to be a target for theft. Manufacturers also store identifiers and restricted-access keys on objects. The vendor also stores the accessibility identifier and associated key for use by an authorized user to restore the utility of the object. For example, identifiers and keys may be stored at a network operations center (NOC). It will greatly reduce the risk of the controlled object being stolen during distribution and transportation. When the customer decides to purchase the object, he can bring it close to the activation device. The accessibility ID of the object is read by the activation device, and the accessibility ID is sent through the network connected to the NOC. The NOC obtains the authorization key for this object. Other permissions can also be obtained, such as confirmation of payment, identification, password or age. After obtaining permission, the activation device usually uses wireless communication to send the authorization key to the controlled object. After the object receives the authorization key, it uses its own logic to compare the authorization key with the restricted access key it stores. If the two keys match, the object alters the state of the implementing device with the activated energy source. The customer can then use the full utility of the object.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is a network block diagram for distribution utility controlled object;

Fig. 2 is a network block diagram for distribution utility controlled object;

Fig. 3 A and 3B are utility controlled object block diagrams;

4A and 4B are process block diagrams of changing the utility state of a utility controlled object;

[0019] FIG. 4C is a process flow diagram for changing the utility state of a utility controlled object;

Fig. 5 is the block diagram of utility controlled object;

Fig. 6 A is a block diagram of utility-controlled electronic device;

[0022] FIG. 6B is a block diagram of a utility-controlled processor;

[0023] FIGS. 7A and 7B are block diagrams of utility-controlled optical discs;

[0024] FIG. 8 is a process flow diagram for changing the utility state of a utility controlled object;

[0025] FIG. 9A is a network block diagram for distribution utility controlled objects;

[0026] FIG. 9B is a distribution chain block diagram for utility controlled objects;

Fig. 10 is the schematic diagram of the utility controlled object with label;

Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram of a utility-controlled electronic device with an external antenna;

Fig. 12 is a block diagram of a utility-controlled electronic device with an external antenna;

Fig. 13 is a block diagram of a utility-controlled electronic device with an external antenna;

Fig. 14 is the block diagram of utility controlled object;

Fig. 15 is the block diagram of utility controlled object;

Fig. 16 is the block circuit diagram of utility controlled object;

Fig. 17 is the block circuit diagram of utility controlled object;

Fig. 18 is the block circuit diagram of utility controlled object;

Fig. 19 is the block circuit diagram of utility controlled object;

Fig. 20 is the block circuit diagram of utility controlled object;

Fig. 21 is the block circuit diagram of utility controlled object;

[0039] FIG. 22 is a block diagram of a utility controlled object;

[0040] FIG. 23 is a block diagram of a utility controlled object;

[0041] FIG. 24 is a block diagram of a utility controlled object;

Figure 25 is a block diagram of a utility controlled object;

[0043] FIG. 26 is a block diagram of a server system for changing utility controlled objects;

[0044] FIG. 27 is a block diagram of a server system for changing utility controlled objects;

[0045] FIG. 28 is a block diagram of changing utility controlled object utility using activation means;

[0046] FIG. 29 is a block diagram of changing utility controlled object utility using activation means;

[0047] FIG. 30 is a block diagram of changing the utility of a utility controlled object using an activation device and a network;

[0048] FIG. 31 is a block diagram of changing the utility of a utility controlled object using an activation device and a network;

[0049] FIG. 32 is a block diagram of changing the utility of a utility controlled object using an activation device and a network;

[0050] FIG. 33 is a block diagram of changing the utility of a utility controlled object using an activation device and a network;

[0051] FIG. 34 is a block diagram of changing the utility of a utility controlled object using an activation device and a network;

[0052] FIG. 35 is a block diagram of changing the utility of a utility controlled object using an activation device and a network;

[0053] FIG. 36 is a block diagram of changing the utility of a utility controlled object using an activation device and a network;

[0054] FIG. 37 is a block diagram of changing the utility of a utility controlled object using an activation device and a network;

[0055] FIG. 38 is a block diagram of changing the utility of a utility controlled object using an activation device and a network;

[0056] FIG. 39 is a block diagram of changing the utility of a utility controlled object using an activation device and a network;

[0057] FIG. 40 is a block diagram of a utility controlled object located inside a package;

[0058] FIG. 41 is a block diagram of a utility controlled object located inside a package;

[0059] FIG. 42 is a block diagram of a utility controlled object located inside a package.

Detailed ways

[0060] Referring to FIG. 1, a system for controlling utility of objects is shown. System 10 is described with reference to objects 12 at various points in the distribution chain. Object 12 may be an electronic device such as a computer, television, instrument, MP3 player, camera, game console, or toy. In another example, the object may be a tangible medium, such as an optical disc, DVD, CD, or game cartridge. The object 12 is produced or prepared with a means for implementing changes. Change implementations are used to control the available utility of an object or the use of an object. More specifically, the change implementing means may have multiple states, and each state corresponds to an available state of the object utility. In one specific application, the change implementing means can switch between two available states of the utility. [0061] As shown in block 12a, when an object enters the distribution chain, the object is set to have a utility. For example, this utility may be so severely limited that the object has no functionality available. In another example, it is also possible that the set utility only allows a certain demonstrative utility. It can be understood that the specific utility can be set separately according to the needs of the distribution chain. For example, at some point in the distribution chain, when the object is transferred to the customer, it may be necessary to change the utility available to the object. Correspondingly, box 12b is the case where the object with the activation device 16 is at the point of sale or other point of transfer 14 . As the object approaches the activation device 16, the activation device or other reading device may read an identifier value or other identification from the object. Using this identifier, the activation device can generate or obtain an authorization key. This authorization key may be stored locally at the point of sale terminal 14, or may be obtained from a network operation center or other remote server through a network connection. The point of sale terminal 14 is connected to an operations center 18 . The operations center may be at the same facility as the point-of-sale terminal 14, or at another facility at another location. The operation center 18 can also have multiple computer servers, and distribute processes and databases through a network system. A group of identifications and corresponding authorization keys 21 are stored in the operation center 18 . In another example, operations center 18 operates an algorithmic process to generate a key corresponding to information received from activation device 16 . Whether generating or obtaining a key, the operations center 18 sends the subject's authorization key to the point-of-sale terminal 14 where it is valid for the activation device 16 .

[0062] At the point of sale 14, a point of sale terminal, typically connected to the activation device, may perform various other preliminary tasks or processes to determine whether authorization has been granted to alter the object's utility. For example, a point-of-sale terminal can be used to confirm payment for an object, or to verify that the age of the customer purchasing some particular object also meets the criteria. If the point-of-sale device is authorized to change the utility of the object, the activation device 16 sends the authorization key to the object, as shown in block 12c. In one example, the activation device 16 may read the ID from the subject and send the authorization key to the subject via RF (Radio Frequency) communication. It is understood that other types of wireless communication methods may also be used. For example, one-way or two-way communication can be by infrared (IR) communication. In another example, the object may also be in physical contact with the activation device to enable communication.

[0063] As shown in block 12d, the object uses the received authorization key to change its internal change-enabling device state to another state. In this other state, the utility of the object is different from the utility when the change implementing means is in the first state. The object has logic connected to change implementation means for changing the object utility using the authorization key. For example, define a restricted-access key during the production process and store this key in an object. Such restricted-access keys cannot be read, changed, or destroyed externally, but can be read or otherwise manipulated by the object's logic. This restricted access key is compared or used in conjunction with the received authorization key to determine whether the object utility can be changed.

[0064] In the specific example of system 10, object 12 is represented as an MP3 player. During production of the MP3 target device, the restricted access key is stored in the MP3 player. In addition, the MP3 player is also equipped with a change implementation device, which is set in a state of limiting the utility of the MP3 player. More specifically, the first state of the change implementation device is set to be that the MP3 player cannot be powered on or cannot work normally, and the second state is set to allow the MP3 player to be fully usable. For example, the change-implementing device might be a grounded printed circuit board trace. The ground trace may be connected to a pin on the MP3 processor, and as long as that pin is grounded, the MP3 player cannot power up or initialize. Of course, it is also possible to switch between various working states of the MP3 player by implementing device structures in various optional ways and through more changes. The MP3 player is produced with a power supply that matches the implementation of the modification to selectively remove the ground circuit. This power source can be a battery, an electromagnetic converter or a radio frequency converter, or it can draw power from the operating power source of the MP3 player.

Generate MP3 player like this and prepare to sell MP3 player as restricted product, now MP3 player can not normally power on or bring into play its effect. Thus, MP3 players of limited utility are of little use to customers and are less likely to be the subject of theft. The manufacturer also gives the MP3 player an Accessible Identifier. For example, this identifier could be a barcode, or stored data that can be accessed by a reading system such as infrared. The identifier and its corresponding key value are held by the manufacturer, so that retailers or other authorized parties can obtain it when restoring the utility of the MP3 player. A controlled-utility MP3 player would greatly reduce the risk of theft during distribution shipping and on the way to the retailer. In addition, retailers can also display products in a relaxed environment and present MP3 players to customers without worrying too much about theft. This way, security measures such as locked counters or complicated packaging can also be reduced at retail, since there is no point in stealing such an unusable restricted MP3 player.

[0066] When a customer decides to purchase an MP3 player, the customer may bring the MP3 player to the point of sale terminal 14, near the activation device 16. When the MP3 player is close to the activation device, its access ID can be read by the activation device 16 by using the barcode value or using wireless or EM (electromagnetic) communication to obtain the stored access ID. For example, such communication may be RF (Radio Frequency) communication. The point-of-sale terminal can be networked with the operation center 18, and sends the access ID to the operation center. An operations center storing a database of MP3 player restricted access key-associated identifications obtains the authorization key for the MP3 player located at the point-of-sale device. At the point of sale terminal 14, there may be an additional confirmation operation. For example, a clerk in a retail store wants to collect money from a customer, or needs to check a customer's ID and age. Completion of these other validation criteria will determine that the point-of-sale terminal is ready to restore MP3 player utility. Assuming the activation device 16 deems recovery possible, it typically communicates the authorization key wirelessly to the MP3 player. After the MP3 player receives the authorization key, it uses its own logic to compare the authorization key with the pre-stored restricted access key. If the two keys match, the MP3 player uses its active power to open the ground wire. With the ground wire open, the powered-on MP3 player has full utility to the customer.

[0067] In another example, a customer may purchase an MP3 player from an online retailer, and the MP3 player may be shipped or mailed to the customer. In such cases, other alternatives can be used to restore the utility of the MP3 player. In one option, the online retailer's warehouse or shipping department is equipped with an activation device, and the MP3 player is reactivated by the retailer's employees as part of the shipping process. Another option is to ship the MP3 player still utility controlled, but ship with an activation device that restores the MP3 player utility before or upon delivery. Under this method, the delivery driver can restore the utility of the MP3 player at the same time as the customer receives it, thus avoiding the risk of theft during the entire delivery process. Still another alternative is for the customer to have a home activation device and use this activation device to restore the utility of the MP3 player. In this last method, the utility of the MP3 player is limited throughout the shipment from the manufacturer to the customer's location, until the merchandise transaction is completed, and it is up to the customer to ultimately restore the utility of the MP3 player.

[0068] In some cases, MP3 players also require auxiliary circuitry to confirm that utility has been restored. For example, the state of the change implementation device may be measured, or other tests or measurements may be performed. Depending on whether the activation was successful or not, different values are set in the confirmation memory. The activation device 16 can read the confirmation memory to confirm the successful activation to the customer and the network operation center. By confirming successful activation, the retailer can have a high level of customer satisfaction, but also can accurately and timely report and license payment to the supplier of the MP3 player.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 2, a method for using utility managed objects is shown. Method 25 represents the customer choosing to purchase a utility controlled object, as indicated by block 26 . Customers can buy at a traditional retail store, or order from home through an online ordering system or by mail. When the customer chooses to buy, the object is not yet valid or only partially valid, and thus has little value to the thief. Like this, because the thief does not get any benefit, the risk of theft will be greatly reduced. At some point of sale, however, object utility needs to be restored. Then, as represented by block 28, the authorization key is sent to the object at the time, location or event set by the retailer. This can be done, for example, at a terminal at the point of sale, at a remotely activated unit at the customer's home, or at another location of the retailer's choice. As shown in block 32, since the object has its own logic, change enabler, and activation power, it is possible to verify that the authorization key is correct, and then open the change implement to restore object utility. Once the object is authorized, the change implementer can restore its state, making the object fully valid. There is also another case where the level of utility restoration depends on a specific value of the authorization code. Thus, an object has multiple authorization keys, each authorization key corresponding to a different level of object utility. Depending on the different authorization keys received, the object recovers a predefined utility level. The advantage of doing this in method 25 is that theft can be minimized and customer needs can be better satisfied at the same time.

[0070] Method 35 represents receipt of the controlled object by the retailer, as shown in block 37. These objects can be electronic devices without any utility, electronic devices that cannot be powered on normally, electronic devices with severely limited utility or only for demonstration purposes, and optical media such as DVDs and CDs that cannot be read and accessed on playback devices, etc. . In this way, these utility-controlled objects have little value to a thief, so the risk of theft will be greatly reduced. As shown in block 39, when the time, location or event set by the retailer occurs, the retailer can restore the full utility of the object. Once confirmed, the object resumes its utility as indicated by block 41 . In this way, the retailer controls when, where and when to effectively restore the utility of the device. In the distribution chain, the way of transporting utility-controlled objects is usually by ship, truck or other modes of transport. Method 45 represents the process of dealers and shipping companies receiving utility-controlled objects. Utility controlled objects are of no use to a thief, so the risk of theft is much lower. As indicated at block 48, the dealership transports the object to the predetermined location, completing the delivery. Therefore, the risk of object theft is significantly reduced from the moment the dealer or shipping company receives the goods (box 47) until they hand over the goods to the next level agency (box 48).

[0071] Referring now to FIG. 3A, objects of the controlled distribution system are shown. The object 50 generally has a housing 52 in which the object is enclosed. In one example, object 50 may be an electronic product or a tangible medium such as an optical disc, DVD, game console, game cartridge, or CD. Usually the object 50 enters the distribution chain after leaving the factory until the retailer receives it. Retailers typically display and sell objects 50 to customers. Customers purchase objects 50 to obtain some particularly useful utility. For example, if object 50 is an MP3 player, the customer wishes to play MP3 music files through speakers or headphones. In another example, if the object is a movie disc (DVD), the customer wishes to put the DVD into a corresponding player to play and enjoy a high-quality movie. However, object 50 has multiple utility states. Thus, an object may be in one utility state in the distribution chain, and then, when the customer picks up the object, it may be set in another state. In a more specific instance, the utility of object 50 is nearly nonexistent in a distribution or retail location. Then, when handing over to the customer, the utility of the object is fully restored. In this way, the risk of theft in distribution and retail establishments is substantially reduced since no benefit is gained from stealing the object. Therefore, the object 50 should be used with activation devices that communicate with the network operations center and are part of the overall distribution control system. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10/874,642, filed June 23, 2004, titled "Method and Apparatus for Activating Optical media," and Serial No. 10/632,047, filed July 31, 2003, titled "Wireless Activation System and Method" The process and method of activating optical media is described more fully in more detail in US Patent Application Patents of , both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. [0072] The subject 50 receives the authorization key via the communication circuit 58. The communication circuit 58 is possibly a wireless communication circuit such as a radio frequency or electromagnetic receiver. The object has logic 65 configured to receive the authorization key and determine if, how, or what changes to the utility are to be changed by the object. Logic may include logic structures and dynamic or non-volatile memory. In one example, logic 65 uses object key 63 to determine whether the object can be converted to another level of utility. In one example, the object key 63 is stored during production in a manner that is not readable by external devices. For example, the object key 63 may be stored in non-volatile, non-erasable, non-alterable memory at the time of production. This object key may have the same value as the authorization key, so the logic simply compares the restricted access object key 63 with the received authorization key to determine if the object's utility can be changed. It should be understood that other logical processes may also be used to make such determinations. Assuming logic 65 determines that utility can be changed, the logic will ask change implementer 67 to change the state. For example, a change-implementing device could be: an electronic switch, a fuse, a circuit condition break, a logic state, or a set of values defined in memory. In another example, the alteration enabling device is an electronically switchable optical material such as an electrochromic material. It should be understood that other means may also be used as the change-implementing means.

[0073] The change implementing means may change state with the aid of activating the power source 61, or set or change a value stored in memory with a logic process. For example, activation power source 61 may be a separate battery that powers logic 65 , communication process 58 and change implementation device 67 . In another example, the activation power source 61 may also be a converter that converts received radio frequency or electromagnetic energy into usable electrical energy. Also, the activation power can be obtained in whole or in part from external resources of the object. It should be understood that other electronic components may also be required to implement a device such as a converter. In another example, the working power supply 73 can provide activation power to the entire device. It should be understood that not all objects require operating power. For example, if the entire device is an MP3 player, and the MP3 player has an operable rechargeable battery, the rechargeable battery has an initial charge sufficient to power the activation circuit when the object is in the distribution chain. In another example, the activation power 61 can also be provided by multiple power sources. For example, a small capacity battery may power the change implementation means, while an RF or EM converter means may power the logic and communication means 58 . It should be understood that there are a number of alternative ways to power the circuitry in object 50 .

[0074] In one example, the object 50 is an electronic device having an operating power source 73 to power the utility of the device. The utility module 74 directly affects the utility devices. For example, a utility module may be a power supply, processor, motor, display, executable code, memory, amplifier, print head, or lamp. It should be understood that various types of utility circuits and utility modules may be used. Object 50 has an operational state in which utility module 74 uses operating power. And the utility module 74 is connected to the change realization device 67 to determine the level of utility achievable. For example, the utility device does not allow the power supply or the motor to operate under certain conditions, thus disabling the object 50 from any meaningful operation. As another example, altering the implementing means may cause the utility means to operate the object 50 in a reduced-utility or instantiation mode. This allows the device to operate with limited capabilities at a retail store and then restore its full utility at a later date so that the customer can use the full functionality of the object. It will be appreciated that object 50 may have one or more isolation circuits to isolate operating power source 73 from change implementation device 67 and its associated logic and communication circuits. This isolation protects the change implementation and logic from damage when operating power is applied, and conversely protects the change implementation and logic from damage when power is applied to the change implementation to cause it to change state . Various other isolation procedures and circuits may also be employed.

[0075] In a more complex distribution schema, an object 50 has an accessible object ID 56. Object ID 56 may be a barcode value or an RFID value. At the request of the activation device, the object 50 transmits its object ID using the communication circuit 54 . The communication circuit 54 may be a simple RFID communication circuit for communicating the RFID value to the activated terminal. Then, the activation terminal obtains or generates an authorization key according to the object ID. This key is communicated to the communication means 58 for comparison by the logic 65 with the stored restricted access target key. Using the object ID, a specific single object or a large class of objects can be associated with an authorization key. Figure 3A shows the functional module relationship, and the corresponding circuit implementation can further separate some functions and combine some other functions. For example, the operable circuit may employ a single RF receiving device as the receiving communication functional block 58 and the transmitting communication functional block 54 .

[0076] Referring now to FIG. 3B, an alternative configuration of object 50 is shown. In this configuration, the object 50 is used to provide information confirming that its utility is effectively controlled. Accordingly, the object 50 has validation circuitry or memory 59 for changing state according to the actual or proper utility state of the object 50 . In some cases, it is necessary to detect the actual state of the utility or change the actual state of the implementing device. In other cases, it is not convenient to measure and detect the actual state, so some aspects of the changing process are detected instead. In this case, confirming that the change process was successful means that there is a high probability that the utility of the object was successfully changed. Therefore, validation circuit 59 either directly detects the state of change implementer 67, or measures the electronic progress used to cause the change. For example, the confirming circuit 59 will detect the current passing through the fuse, so as to confirm that enough power passes through and blow the fuse. Although not directly detecting the state, a change in the state of the fuse has a high probability of causing a change in the utility state of the object. In another example, validation circuit 59 may be connected to logic 65 and the validation logic is correctly activated. In another example, the confirmation circuit 59 may also be directly connected to the utility module or the utility device itself to confirm whether activation has occurred. Once the acknowledgment circuit 59 receives information that the modules required to achieve the desired change in object utility have changed, the acknowledgment signal is transmitted to the activation device via a transmitter or read on request by the activation device. The object in Figure 3B confirms that the utility has been changed by feeding back information to the activation device and distribution control system. This information is then used to generate reports or two initial payments to parties in the distribution chain.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 4A, a method of controlling distribution of electronic devices is shown. In method 100, the object is in a non-operational state, eg, its main power source is off. The utility of the object is limited when it is manufactured, causing the object to operate only at the first utility level, as indicated at block 102 . For example, the primary utility of an object is highly limited such that the object has no practical value to customers. This way, the device cannot be stolen by the customer or others in the distribution chain. When selected by a retailer or other authorized person in the distribution chain, the object obtains an authorization key, as shown in block 104 . Typically, the authorization key is received by the retail terminal via wireless communication, although other addresses or processes are available. The electronic product determines whether it is authorized to change the first utility level through its own logic and activation power, as shown in block 106 . Provided the correct authorization key is received, the electronic product uses it to activate power and logic to transition the change implementing device from the first state to the second state, as shown at block 108 . Subsequently, for example, when the customer brings the electronic product home, the customer plugs in or turns on the power of the electronic product, as shown in block 111 . The change implementation means is now in the second state, and the object is also operating in the second available utility state, as shown in block 113 . For example, the second utility can be a full operational utility.

[0078] In another example, the first utility is a demo utility and the second utility is a fully working utility. However, in the case of an age-restricted product, it is also possible that the first utility is a full working utility and the second utility is a limited utility. In this way, retailers will prohibit certain features of electronic products according to the age of customers. Sometimes customers may purchase products based on some desired properties. Fully operable products and activation devices are kept together and undesired performance is limited. In this way, flexible configuration of electronic products can be accomplished at the point of sale or service area in a retail environment. Although the utility of an electronic product changes when it is delivered to a customer, the utility of an electronic product may change at other times as well. For example, a manufacturer may use a change implementation device to specifically configure an electronic product prior to shipment. This produces a standard version of the electronic product and selectively adds or removes its utility with one or more modification implementations. It should be understood that this dynamic configuration process may be performed at other times, such as by service personnel at a retail store. Similarly, a manufacturer may also place optical media, such as compact discs, in multiple change implementations, each of which is used to alter the utility of the medium. Thus, the utility of the medium may be altered during production or distribution. In this way, a standard version of the media or media content is produced, with one or more alteration enabling means selectively adding or removing its utility. It should be understood that this dynamic configuration process can be performed by service personnel such as retail outlets at other times.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 4B, the process of utilizing an electronic device object is shown. As represented by block 116, method 115 has the electronic product in a non-operational state. For example, electronic products that are not plugged in or whose power switch is turned off. As indicated by block 117, the electronic product may be in an operational state. For example, plugging in an electronic product or turning on its power switch. The available utility level of the electronic product is then changed as the state of the change-implementing device is changed. For example, if the change implementing means is in a first state as shown in block 119 , the electronic product may operate at a first utility level as shown in block 121 . If the change implementing means is in the second state as indicated by block 118 , the electronic product operates at a second utility level as indicated by block 120 . As described in method 115, the utility level of an electronic product often depends on the state of the change-implementing device. Therefore, changing the implementation means will make the electronic product always use only after obtaining the correct authorization key. If the authorization key is never received, the electronic product remains in the first utility state. In a specific example, if the first utility level is highly restricted, then the electronic product has no real utility to the customer. The risk of theft will be greatly reduced like this, because stealing the electronic product in the first state can not obtain any profit.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 4C, a specific method for controlling targeted distribution of electronic devices is shown. The electronic product in method 125 has two states of operation and non-operation. Usually, the power is turned off in the non-operation state and the power is normally turned on in the operation state. As represented by block 126, the utility of the electronic product is controlled and set at a first utility level as it is produced. Electronic products circulate through the distribution chain until some agency in the distribution chain deems it possible to change their utility. For example, when the electronic product is handed over to the customer by the point-of-sale retailer, or by the addition or removal of its specific utility components by the distributor. Because the electronic product is initially set at the first utility level, the electronic component can only have its first utility level if in an operational state. For example, if the utility of an electronic product is completely limited, the electronic product cannot be powered on or all utility is disabled.

[0081] When the electronic product is in a non-operating state and needs to be converted to a second utility state, it must be moved to a position adjacent to the activation device. The activation device may be an activation terminal at a point of sale or a device located elsewhere. As represented by block 127, the electronic device receives a query for an accessible ID. An Accessibility ID is a wirelessly readable memory value or a barcode to scan. As indicated at block 129, the accessibility ID is communicated back to the activation device. As shown in block 131, the activation terminal cooperates with other local or remote systems to permit changes to the object's utility. For example, the activation terminal will confirm credit card payment, password, membership in the organization, authorization to activate the terminal, or the customer's age. As shown in block 133, assuming permission to change the utility of the object, the activation terminal transmits the authorization key to the object. Typically the authorization key is received wirelessly by electromagnetic means such as radio frequency communication. Objects that are still in a non-operational state acquire a restricted-access key stored in the object. The restricted access key is stored in immutable non-volatile memory and cannot be read by external devices. The restricted access key is usually stored in the object during production, along with a copy of the authorization key and the associated ID for retrieval by the activated device. Accordingly, as indicated by blocks 136 and 138, the object's own logic obtains or utilizes the restricted access key and compares it to the authorization key. As indicated at block 140, if the keys agree, the object determines that its utility should be changed. The logic then works with the change implementer to change the change implementer to the second state, as represented by block 142 . The change implementing means is associated with a utility module that is used to direct a specific utility of the electronic product. Therefore, as shown in block 144 , when the electronic product is in the working state, it should work according to the second utility shown in block 146 .

[0082] Referring to FIG. 5, the representation is another object of the distribution control system. Object 150 is similar to object 50 depicted in FIG. 3A and therefore will not be described in detail. Like object 50, object 150 has a communication circuit 158 for obtaining an authorization key from an external activation device. The communication module 158 works with the logic 165 and the change implementer 163 to cause the change implementer to change between the first state and the second state. Depending on this state change, the utility module 171 provides different utility levels for the object 150 . The subject requires an active power supply 159 to power the communication, logic, and change implementation devices, while an operating power supply 173 powers the subject's main operating circuits and devices. Object 150 also has a restricted-access object key 161 and an accessible object ID 156. The communication circuit 154 is used to send the object ID value 156 to the activation device. The main elements of the object 150 are stored in the shell 152 . In one example, housing 152 is a case or box. Since the housing 152 or other aspects of the object may restrict wireless communication to other components within the housing 152, some circuitry and logic of the object 150 resides in the peripherals 151 of the main object housing 152. As shown in the example in FIG. 5 , peripheral device 151 has an active power source (perhaps a battery or RF/EM power converter), communication circuit 158, communication circuit 154, and accessibility ID 156. However, in conventional configurations, the peripherals and RF power conversion circuitry are confined to the antenna or antenna maintenance circuitry, and the object's ID is stored in the object housing 152 . In this way, the circuits required for wireless communication without any interference are outside the object. Other circuitry that alters the utility of the object is within the object enclosure 152 . It is understood that other circuits may also be moved from the housing to the peripheral 151 . For example, object keys and logic can be moved to peripherals in some cases. If there is a battery in the activation power supply 159 , the battery can be placed inside the housing 152 or on the peripheral device 151 .

[0083] Peripheral device 151 may be mounted or attached in subject housing 152, or located remotely from the subject and coupled to subject housing 152 by circuitry. In addition, the peripheral device 151 may be coupled to the object housing 152 through the connector 166 of the object housing 152 . In another example, peripherals may be temporarily mounted on the subject housing 152 through the power input port of the subject housing. In this case, when the power plugs of the peripheral 152 and the housing 152 are connected, the object 150 will be activated; after activating the terminal process, the power plug is pulled out from the peripheral 151, and the plug is inserted into the power socket at the same time to make the electronic Product is in working condition. Other available connectors can also be used. For example, existing audio, video or data connectors may be used. However, when standard connector 166 is used, it may be desirable to provide an isolation circuit 167 to protect subject circuit 169 from damage by peripheral device 151 . Isolation circuit 166 is used to pass the received authorization key to logic 165 when the object's utility is to be changed, and to pass the signal in the connector to its regular object circuit 169 when the object is in active mode. For example, if connector 166 is an audio connector, then the signal in the connector is passed to audio object circuit 169 when the object is used. The design and construction of the isolation circuit are well known and thus need not be discussed in detail. By building the activation circuit part external to the object, more robust communication with the activation device is maintained, as well as more efficient RF or EM energy conversion when converting energy from an available RF or EM source.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 6A, an electronic device object 200 is shown. The utility of the electronic device 202 is limited at the time of manufacture. While thus circulating through the distribution chain, the electronic product 202 has little or no value to a potential thief. Therefore, the risk of being stolen is substantially reduced. As represented by block 224, the electronic product 202 activates its utility modules through logic circuits, power circuits, values stored in memory, or operation of a processor. When the electrical connection is grounded, as indicated by block 222, the particular utility module has no utility. When operating power 226 is applied, such as when the object's power switch is activated, switch 219 closes, thus grounding the reset pin when printed circuit trace 217 is shorted to ground. In this way, although the utility module 224 is loaded with working power, the processor and the logic circuit of the electronic product are always in the restart state, so the electronic product has no utility. Therefore, when the change implementing device is in the first state, whenever the electronic product 202 is turned on, its main function is restricted.

[0085] When a customer purchases the electronic product at a retail store, the electronic product 202 is in proximity to the activation device. The activation device requires an ID value, and the RF transmitter 204 transmits its ID value 206 to the activation device. While RF communication is explained, other available wireless communication means can also be used. The activation device may work with remote servers, network operations centers, store personnel, and customers to determine the validity of the authorization recovery object 202 . If the activation terminal is properly authorized and the interested parties confirm that the electronic product can be restored, the activation device will send the authorization key to the RF receiver 208 . RF receiver 208 transmits the received authorization key to logic 215 , which compares the authorization key with restricted access key 213 . The restricted access key 213 is stored in the electronic product during production. If the stored restricted access key 213 and the authorization key match, the logic turns on the PCB circuit. When the electronic product is not working, the power supply 211 is used to supply power to the transmitter 204 , the receiver 208 , the logic 215 and the change implementing device 217 . The power source may be a battery, an RF/EM power converter or connected to the operating power source 226 . For example, RF receiver 208 acts as a receiver for RF/EM power converter 211 . Other types of power supplies can also be used.

[0086] Once the PCB trace 217 is open, the switch 219 is closed each time the operating power 226 is applied. In this way, the voltage on the reset pin can flow through and not be pulled from ground. So the logic doesn't restart. Once powered on or initialized logic and utility, the electronics will operate normally and achieve full utility. Multiple authorization keys and multiple change enablers may also be employed. In this way, several utility states can be selectively opened.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 6B, a computer processor object 250 is shown. For example, processor 252 may be a microprocessor, gate array device, DSP, or other processor circuitry. Although illustrated in terms of a processor, other available logic and storage devices may also be used. Processor 252 is produced with a restricted access key 261 . The limited access key is stored in the database and associated with the processor ID value 256. Alternative implementations of the processor 252 exist in the form of logical values 265 . Logical values cannot be read externally and are stored in a non-volatile and indestructible form. When the logic value is set in the first state, setting the logic value causes the boot circuit 274 of the processor to cause a boot failure. In another example, the initial setting value can only put the processor into a limited mode, so that only simple operations can be performed but not full utility. Typically, the operating power supply 227 will be a pin or circuit that receives power from an external power source. The active circuit is protected by the operating power supply and is isolated from the active circuit by the isolation transistor 268 . For example, if operating transistor 268 is properly biased and connected to operating power supply 277 so that circuit 274 is directed to read a logic value when operating power is applied. In this way, the processor 252 checks what level of utility should be provided each time it is powered up.

[0088] Processor 252 may be sold as a discrete component or as an element of a larger device such as a computer system, camera, or MP3 player, and the like. In some cases it may be useful to mount the wireless communications and circuitry external to the processor device. When a processor or an entire device having a processor needs to be activated, the processor uses the RF transmitter 254 to send the processor ID 256 to the activation device. The activation means generates or obtains the same authorization key as the restricted access key 261 . RF receiver 257 receives the authorization key and together with logic 263 enters a new logic value into logic value field 265 . A power source such as RF/EM power converter 259 is used to power up the activation circuit and help set the new logic value. Once the processor sets a new logical value in the logical value field 265, the processor operates at the utility level set by the new logical value after power-up. Processors generally have full utility at the new logic level. Different utility levels are also possible in this mode. Utilities may also be added or removed from the processor based on received authorization keys. In this manner, multiple restricted access codes 261 may be stored, each associated with a different level of utility of the processor. Although processor 252 is illustrated with RF transmitter 254, RF receiver 257, and power supply 259 integrated in the processor, it is also possible to mount all or part of the configuration on the exterior of the processor housing. For example, transmitter 254, receiver 257, and power supply 259 may be placed outside of the processor housing or within the processor's packaging. Additionally, if the processor 252 is integrated into a larger device, some structure may be placed external to the processor, eg on a printed circuit board. It should be understood that the illustrated structures may be selectively placed according to specific application requirements.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 7A, there is shown an object used in the construction of the controlled distribution system. The object 300 is an optical disc 302 . Although object 300 is described as an optical disc, it may be other tangible media. For example, object 300 may be a DVD, VCD, credit card, gift certificate, ticket, game cartridge, readable memory, bottle, or other tangible medium. The data of the optical disc 302 can be read by a player, drive or gaming system, which is the primary utility of the optical disc. In this way, the player perceives the content stored on the disc to indicate the utility of the disc. Similarly, restricted discs will not be read by the player or read from or written to the disc storage area.

[0090] The content 316 of the optical disc 302 includes content areas, indexes, menus, startup data or documents, and job controls. Content 316 may be: movie files, sound files, game files or other information that needs to be viewed or used. The change implementing means 315 in the optical disk can be set to at least two states. In one state, changing implementations interferes with the ability of player 303 to read content 316 . More specifically, player 303 has laser 319 and associated reading and display circuitry 321 for reading content 316 . However, if the change implementation means 315 limits the utility of the disc, the change implementation means reads the index, menu, start data or file information or content information by interfering with the laser 319 performance. Thus, the utility of the disc placed in the target player is completely limited.

[0091] In one example, the alteration enabling device 315 may be an electronically switchable material. More specifically, the alteration enabling means may be an electrochromic material that uses an electrical signal to alter its optical properties. Thus, when the electrochromic material is substantially opaque or has a high index of refraction, the laser light is sufficiently disturbed that the circuitry that reads or displays the player cannot properly read the light signal. However, when the change implementation device is changed to an optically achromatic state, the laser can correctly read the index, menu, start data or file, or the content area, thereby making full use of the optical disc.

[0092] The optical disc has an RF or other EM receiver 308 for receiving the authorization key. Logic 313 receives the authorization key and makes decisions such as whether the state of the disc should be changed. In one example, the logic 313 compares the received authorization key with the own restricted access key 311 . If the keys match, the logic transitions the change implementer 315 to a different state using a secondary step. The disc has a power source 310 for activating the logic 313 and the receiver 308 and effecting the switching of the change implementing means 315 . The power source 310 may be a battery kept with the disc or in the packaging used to package the disc; it may also be an RF/EM power converter that converts wireless power to electrical power.

[0093] Alteration implementer 315 may be used to increase or limit the utility of the disc. For example, the change implementation device of the optical disc 302 is set in the first state that completely limits the utility of the optical disc when it leaves the factory. This substantially reduces the risk of the optical disc 302 being stolen when it circulates in the distribution chain. Anyone who steals or obtains a copy of a stolen or unauthorized disc cannot use the disc in a commercial player. The risk of being stolen is therefore greatly reduced as the stolen disc has no or very limited utility.

[0094] At some point in the distribution chain, such as a point-of-sale terminal in a retail store, the optical disc can be restored to full utility. When the disc is placed at the point of sale, near the activation device, the disc can receive a request to provide the ID 306. This ID may be a barcode, or it may be stored in accessible memory, waiting to be transmitted wirelessly. In this case, the disc ID is transmitted back to the activation device via the RF transmitter 304 . The activation device may perform validation and authorization tasks in conjunction with the telework center to validate whether the recovery disc is licensed. Once authorized, the activation device transmits the authorization key to the RF receiver 308 . Logic 313 uses a restricted access key stored on the disc. During the production process, the restricted access key 311 is stored in the disc and associated with the disc ID 306. The activation device may request access to the associated disc ID and authorization key files. These files are usually kept securely in a network operations center or other secure server location. In this way, the activation device can receive the restricted access key for the optical disc 302 . If the logic 313 determines that the restricted access key 311 and the received authorization key match, then the logic, along with the power supply 310, transitions the alter implementation device to a near optically achromatic state. In this way, the optical disc can be used in its corresponding player 303 .

[0095] Referring to FIG. 7B, an optical disc 302 having additional features is shown. The optical disc in FIG. 7B is similar to the optical disc in FIG. 7A , and will not be described in detail again. The optical disc shown in Fig. 7B can perform the conversion of the available utilities mentioned above. But the disc 302 has additional conditions that are used to decide whether to transition the change implementation device to the new state. For example, logic 313 has an additional input to allow a counter input. This counter is used to count the number of times the disc has been activated, and if the maximum value is reached, it will limit recovery to any effect. In another example, the logic 313 has a time signal, such as a ticking timer, which provides an additional input signal. This way the disc is restored to its full utility and the logic then monitors the elapsed time and after the set time has elapsed, restores the disc to the limit state. This allows the disc to activate for a preset amount of time. Logic 313 may also have additional storage space to perform logic functions and to store values needed for future determinations.

[0096] A confirmation structure for confirming whether the optical disc has switched states is also explained along with the optical disc 302. In one example, the validation system is in the form of a utility status circuit 307 which is used to communicate the current utility status back to the activation device via the RF transmitter 304 . In this way, the activation device can confirm that the disc is in the intended restoration state before the customer leaves the retail location. In another example, the utility state 307 is also used to automatically signal whenever the change implementer 315 changes. The utility state 307 can determine a state change by monitoring or detecting one or more points on the active circuit in the disc. For example, utility state circuitry 307 may monitor the power supply and associated power supply circuitry to determine that there is sufficient power to enable change implementer 315 to complete a state transition. In another example, the utility state can monitor logic to determine if an appropriate change of state has occurred. In another example (not shown), the utility status can directly monitor the characteristics of the change implementation device 315 and report the current status of the change implementation device to the RF transmitter.

[0097] By reporting a confirmation change, the activation device can confirm that the disc has been reinstated before the customer leaves the retail location. Additionally, accurate reporting and payment authorizations are generated within the distribution chain. Other methods of confirming the utility status of the conversion may also be used.

[0098] With reference to FIG. 8, the representation is a distribution control method. Method 350 has a database or series of databases used to associate a set of IDs with a corresponding set of authorization keys. These IDs and keys can be distributed among several servers on one server, or stored or generated in a local activation device. There is a unique one-to-one relationship or a one-to-many relationship between the identification code and the authorization key. For example, each disc has a unique ID and a unique activation code associated with it. Since an authorization key can only be used to restore the validity of a specific disc, this can enhance security settings. In another example, an authorization key may apply a set of identification numbers. In this way, a license key can be sent to activate a range of products. Although reducing security, this arrangement can reduce network and authorization workload. In another example, the object has auxiliary information to generate an authorization key. For example, the date and time of manufacture can be stored on the disc, and when the disc is read by an activation device, a security algorithm generates the correct authorization key. This way, only entities with security and predefined algorithms can associate accessible data and time information with authorization keys. Keys and identification numbers are stored in key file 377 . These key files may be stored locally at the point of sale, distributed among other servers at the same physical location, or distributed among different devices and locations.

[0099] As indicated at block 354, the object is shipped with an accessible identification number and a restricted access key. The access identification number can be stored as a barcode value, or at the interrogation zone via a wireless RF/EM system. In this way, the activation device can identify a specific object. Objects also have a restricted-access key stored at a non-volatile, unchangeable, and externally unreadable storage address. Typically, the restricted access key stored in the object is the same as the authorization key at block 352 above. Other processes can also be used. The vendor controls the utility of the object in the manner shown in block 356 . For example, a vendor can completely limit the utility of an object so that it is unusable or barely usable, it can set the object into a demo or limited working mode, it can activate its utility in the distribution chain and then limit its utility. The object can then be circulated in the distribution channel in the manner shown in block 358 . In distribution channels, objects only have vendor-activated utility. In this way, the vendor can effectively limit the utility of its objects until the authorized party changes the utility of the object. Thus, at a place, time, or event identified by the vendor, it may be possible to allow the transition of an object to a different utility state. Typically, as indicated at block 361, the object is placed at the activation device proximate to the point-of-sale terminal. The activation device 379 has a network connection to obtain ID and key file information, or has locally stored information. The activation device communicates wirelessly with the subject via RF or EM communication. As indicated at block 361, the activation device 379 reads the accessible identification number from the subject. As indicated at block 363, the activation device may perform other work to determine the utility of allowing the activation device to change the object. For example, the activation device may work with the point-of-sale terminal to determine that the customer has paid for the object or entered the correct code.

[0100] The network operations center may also authorize activation of the device. For example, authorized devices have authorized IDs or codes that must be validated by the network operations center or restricted to communicate through specific communication ports or devices. In another example, the activation device 379 may have full GPS functionality, reporting its location information to the network authorization center. As such, the activation device must arrive at the desired location to activate the object before the activation device is authorized. As shown in block 365, if all authorizations have been received from the network operation center, the activation means 379 obtains the authorization key associated with the object's identification number. As indicated at block 367, the activation device sends the authorization key to the subject, typically using a wireless RF or EM communication process. As represented by block 369, the subject receives the authorization key and performs a key comparison with the restricted access key. As shown in block 371, if the keys match, the object changes its utility by changing the state of the change implementation.

[0101] In some cases, an object may have internal circuitry to acknowledge state changes. In this case, the object has internal circuitry to detect or monitor the state of the change implementer, as indicated by block 372, and reports this state to the active device, as indicated by block 372. Confirmation information is fed back to the NOC for reporting and payment.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 9A, a system for distribution control is shown. A firm 402 in system 400 produces utility controlled objects. More specifically, a vendor produces an object with a change implementation that changes state based on receipt of an authorization key. The vendor has network communications connected to the network operation center 407 . The vendor uploads a series of ID values 409 used to identify utility controlled objects produced by the vendor 402 . These identified objects have a set of facilitation authorization keys 411 uploaded by the vendor 402 to the network operation center 407 to implement the utility transfer. Objects may have multiple keys, and different keys may have different utility levels set. The vendor may also place additional access controls 412 on the device. For example, a manufacturer may restrict the sale of certain products in certain countries or regions. Additionally, a manufacturer may not want a particular DVD movie disc to be activated in a particular country by a predetermined date. In this way, even if the object is placed into the distribution chain 404, the vendor can still control the object.

[0103] Distribution chain 404 may include entities including shippers, truck drivers, warehousers, distributors, and other distribution entities. Distribution chain 404 receives controlled objects from vendor 402 and sends the controlled objects to retail environment 406 . Thus, the object remains at a utility-controlled level for as long as the distribution chain 404 has the object. More specifically, manufacturers can even control the availability of devices throughout almost the entire distribution chain. Retail entity 406 has activation means 402 for changing object utility. A retail company can determine under what circumstances, where and when to change the utility of an object. For example, some retailers may change the utility when a customer purchases a product at a point of sale, while other retailers may choose to activate the utility when the object enters the retail store. Furthermore, different products have different activation times. For example, large durable electronics such as large-screen TVs are difficult to steal in retail locations, so utility activation can be done at shipping docks. However, discs that are easily concealed and taken away in stores can only be activated at point-of-sale terminals after payment.

[0104] Whether at a point-of-sale terminal or elsewhere, the activation device 408 obtains the subject's identification information through wireless communication with the subject, and sends the authorization key to the subject. The activation device communicates with the network operations center 407 to perform these operations. The NOC accesses the ID value 409 , the authorization key 411 and any additional access controls 412 . These additional access controls 412 may include further authorization and security controls on the activation device 408 itself. For example, the activation device 408 must have an identifier that matches a preset identifier before the activation device is authorized to operate. In another example, the activation device 408 needs to communicate with a specific preset communication network, for example, a specific TCP/IP port. If the activation device 408 communicates through a non-specific port, then the activation device is in an unauthorized location being operated by an unauthorized person, so the network operations center will not send any authorization keys. For example, an activated device has a full global positioning system and can report its location information to the network operations center 407 . The network operation center 407 also does not send the authorization key if the activation device 408 is not at the expected physical location. This can be useful, for example, if the activation device is stolen or removed from the intended location, and the thief is trying to activate the object at another address.

[0105] The access control module 412 may also communicate with the transaction control system 415. Transaction control system 415 may be associated with network operations center 407 and reside locally at the retail store, or be remotely controlled by a third party. For example, transaction control 415 may be a credit card authorization company that receives a credit card authorization request from activation device 402 and sends an authorization confirmation to the activation device. Thus, the activation means 408 cannot activate the object until a confirmation from the transaction control system 415 is received. Authorization requests may include checks, check cards, debit cards or other financial instruments. Transaction controls may also include confirmation of passwords, memberships, security credentials, age, biometric data, or other confirmation values.

[0106] The activation means 408 may also receive a confirmation signal from the object that it has been correctly activated. In this case, the activating device may transmit information of a successful change to the network operation center 407 or the transaction control 415 . In this way, upon receipt of notification of a successful change in utility, corresponding reports and payment authorizations are generated.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 9B, a simplified distribution chain is shown. In this distribution chain, the firm 426 produces utility controlled objects. As shown in block 428, the manufacturer ships the object at the production dock 427, and the distribution center's shipping dock receives the object. As shown at block 430, the distribution center 429 ships the product to the retailer's receiving dock for receipt by the retailer. As represented by block 432, the retailer may store the object in warehouse 431 and then move the object to a display case at the retail location. Here, the customer may dispose of the object and possibly take the object to the payment terminal 433 of the point-of-sale terminal. Retail clerks typically scan objects using wireless RF/EM activated devices. The activation device validates the object and obtains an authorization key specific to that object. Clerks and point-of-sale terminals work with customers to accept payments and provide other requested information, such as age, passwords or memberships. At this point, the object is in the utility state chosen by the vendor. Once licensed by the manufacturer and selected by an authorized retailer, the manufacturer allows the distribution of authorization keys. In this way, the manufacturer can control when, where and under what conditions the object can be sold to the customer. Thus, a vendor may allow authorization keys to be sent to certain geographic regions or age groups only after certain dates or times. In one example, the manufacturer and retailer coordinate the necessary licenses and deliver keys to the activation device through the network operations center. The retailer then places the object in a second utility state using the authorization key. Thereafter, as shown in block 434, the customer may take the object home and manipulate the object in the second state.

[0108] In one example, a vendor produces full utility controlled objects. Full utility controlled objects are transferred between different shipping docks, distribution centers, warehouses, showcases or shopping carts before reaching the point-of-sale terminal. Throughout the process, if an object is stolen, the object has little or no utility, so the risk of the object being stolen is greatly reduced. In this way, no matter how many entities have objects in the process, the manufacturer has successfully controlled the distribution and use of the product in all stages from production to sales terminal. Once the retailer activates the object, its full utility is available to the customer.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 10, a constrained display wrapper 435 is shown. The limited package 435 has a package 436 in which a limited optical disc 438 is packaged. The package 436 has a distinctive indicia in the form of a label 437 indicating that the disc is of limited utility. Because the disc's utility is completely limited, this allows customers, employees, and any potential thieves to know that the disc cannot be played in the corresponding customer's playback device until the disc is activated at the checkout desk. Thus, by providing a utility controlled object 438 and clearly marking the object as non-playable, the risk of object theft is greatly reduced.

[0110] Shown in a similar type of package 439 is a newly released utility-controlled video game. The game 442 has been restricted from being playable, and a prominent label 441 on the game packaging 440 indicates that the game is not playable. Because the game cartridge cannot be used in the intended console, the risk of theft is also greatly reduced. As a final example, a portable MP3 player 445 is shown in its packaging 446 . The MP3 player 448 has been fully limited in utility and so is in a non-functional state. A label 447 affixed to the package 446 clearly indicates that the MP3 player is not working. This way, a stolen MP3 player has no utility, so the risk of theft is reduced.

[0111] Utility controlled objects have been primarily described with reference to a business transaction such as selling or handing over an object to a customer. However, utility controlled objects may also be used in other fields or applications. For example, controlled objects may be used by the military or other government agencies to control the distribution and use of devices and media. In this way, the utility of a device or medium can be limited during storage and transport, and then restored to full or partial utility at a controlled time and place. In one specific example, a weapon's destructive utility could be turned off during production, storage and transport. When the weapon reaches the battlefield distribution point, the authorized weapon commander restores its full operational performance with the activation device. Together, the activation device and the Secure Network Operations Center confirm that the weapon was activated by authorized officers at the permitted location and time. Similar controlled systems can be used for other electronic products and media objects.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 11, a controlled electronic object device 450 is shown. The electronic device 450 has a case 452 that houses and protects the utility module and other operating circuits and devices. In one example, housing 452 is metallic, thereby limiting wireless communication of components and circuits within the object. As such, wireless communication of devices and components of the subject requires excessively strong RF or EM signals for robust and efficient communication. In order to improve the performance of wireless communication, an antenna 455 is mounted on the outside of the housing 452 and is electrically connected to the activation circuit inside the housing 452 . In this way, wireless communication between the antenna and the activation device is easily achieved, although the change-implementing device remains within the subject housing 452 . In one particular example, connector 453 is placed within housing 452 . This connector may be custom made for antenna 452, or it may be an existing connector on the subject. For example, if the object is an audio device, the object likely has some existing audio connectors. In another example, object 450 may be powered through an external AC or DC power connector. Thus, connector 453 can be a power plug or adapter input. Other types of connectors such as Ethernet data ports, serial data ports, USB cables or other standard audio, video and data connectors may also be used as available.

[0113] In use, the antenna 455 is attached to the connector 453 during production and shipping. In a point-of-sale terminal location, the activation device and antenna 445 cooperate to transmit or receive information or power to circuits in object packaging 452 . Specifically, the antenna may receive a request for an identifier value and transmit the identifier value to the activation device. After performing the authorization steps, the activation device can transmit the authorization key to the subject through the antenna 445 . The object has logic connected to the antenna via connector 453. This logic determines whether to change its change implementation to another state. After the utility state has changed, the object may report a confirmation of the change via the antenna 455 to the activation device. Typically, at this point the customer will ship the electronic device 450 to another location and place the electronic device in an operational state. The antenna 455 can be removed and removed by the customer. In another example, antenna 455 and housing 452 are integral and thus remain on the housing.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 12, an example of an antenna is shown. In FIG. 12, the object package 462 has a printed circuit board 465 inside. Alter implementations, logic and support circuitry are located at 464 . The antenna 461 is connected to an internal circuit 464 through a connector. It is also possible to co-locate logic and modification implementation means with antennas or connectors. In this way, the external antenna 461 can be ready for communication when the internal circuitry 464 is shielded from RF or EM communication. Although the antenna element 461 in the illustration is only composed of the antenna structure outside the object packaging box, it is also possible to place other internal circuit components outside. For example, a power source in the form of an RF/EM converter is placed in the antenna element 461 as a battery. In another example, some or all logic is moved to restricted access storage of antenna elements and object keys. Of course, the latter setting may be less secure, but it may be useful for some applications. However, since change implementers are usually associated with utility modules within the object shell, the change implement means will always be within the object shell.

[0115] FIG. 13 is another example of the antenna element 471. In this example, housing 472 has a printed circuit board 475 that includes internal circuitry 474 . The controlled system 470 is particularly useful when using the subject's existing audio, video, data or power connectors. For example, it may be necessary to use an audio connector and an antenna 471 connection. However, internal audio circuits typically operate at relatively low frequencies, eg, below 100 kHz, and are sometimes designed to operate at frequencies below 30 kHz. Therefore, antenna 471 receiving the desired 900 MHz or other radio frequency signals will not be able to communicate robustly and effectively at radio frequencies with built-in circuitry 474 . Therefore, the radio frequency signal is demodulated to a relatively lower frequency using a modem 479 . For example, when an antenna receives a 900 MHz RF communication signal, it will be demodulated to a relatively lower frequency signal that can be transmitted through audio-grade circuitry. Thus, built-in circuitry 474 will receive a relatively low frequency signal and use it to change the state of the change-implementing means within housing 472 .

[0116] Referring to FIG. 14, a utility controlled object is shown. Object 425 has an object device 429 in packaging 427 . If the target device 429 is an electronic device, the package 427 is, for example, a box or a shipping box for placing the target device 429 . For example, if the object is a tangible medium, the packaging might be a box, such as an Amray box for DVDs or a clear box for CDs to hold the media. In some cases, objects may be disturbed by wireless communications. For example, even though a plastic media case would normally not be disturbed by wireless communications, the metal layer of the disk might, so it may be desirable to place the external control 439 inside the enclosure 427, outside of the disk. Therefore, an external control part 439 is attached to the object 429 to ensure efficient wireless communication. Depending on the specific object and package, the external control part 439 may be placed inside the package, or extended by the package, or placed outside the package. The external control part is connected with the internal control part 431 for controlling the utility of the object. Either or both the internal control section and the external control section have a power source for activating and operating the control circuit. For example, the external control section 439 may have an RF/EM conversion device, while the internal control section may have a battery. The target device may also have an operating power source 435 . In order to protect the internal circuits from damage, the isolation circuit 438 needs to be connected to the switch 441 . In this way, the utility device 433 is protected from the interference of the electrical signal generated by the internal control part 431 . The internal control part is also protected by the power supply 435 when the current is supplied. For example, the isolation device 441 is a switch that disconnects the internal control part 431 from the utility device 433 when the operating power source 435 is activated. More sophisticated isolation procedures and devices are also available when additional protection is required.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 15, a utility controlled object is shown. Object 500 has object circuitry 504 disposed within a housing or box 502 . Housing 502 may interfere with communications with subject circuitry 504, so it may be appropriate to mount portions of the utility control circuitry outside of the subject's housing. A standard connector 521 is mounted on the housing 502 , and an external control part 518 is connected to the standard connector 512 . The external control part has RF/EM antenna structure and corresponding communication circuit. For example, standard connector 521 and the built-in circuitry associated with it do not operate at radio frequencies. Therefore, the demodulation circuit included in the external control section 518 is used to reduce the frequency of the received signal. In this way, the received radio frequency signal is demodulated into a frequency signal capable of efficient and robust communication in the object device circuit 504 . The external control section 518 is used in common with the internal control section 506 to realize the change of the utility of the adjustment object device. More specifically, the change implementer interfaces with the utility module 508 to implement a particular level of utility. Since the activation signal is used for utility in the connector line, isolation and protection of the utility circuit becomes important. In this way, additional circuitry can be provided. For example, the input circuit 512 connected to the connector 521 is provided only when the activation circuit is not activated. There are many other alternative known methods to provide utility circuit isolation.

[0118] FIG. 16 shows an electronic device with an external antenna connected to an AC connector or power cord. The antenna plugs into the head of a dangling AC power cord. With the appropriate physical connector, the same design can be used for the IEC power entry connector. In this embodiment, the transceiver/demodulator will convert the incoming modulated RF (eg 900 MHz) signal to a lower frequency (eg ~500 kHz) demodulated data flow. This low frequency (˜500 kHz) demodulated signal is connected to a power line connector on the target device. An isolation network is connected by the AC power connector and the subject power supply, which separates the activation data flow from the subject power input module. The isolation network includes two inductors and two capacitors. The selection of these devices is based on the frequency ratio between the signal frequency used by the subject connector (60 Hz in this example) and the activation frequency used (~500 kHz). At 500 kHz, the inductor presents a high impedance to the activation signal, while the capacitor presents a low impedance. Thus, the activation signal connects the activation circuit and inductively isolates the low source impedance. The opposite is true when the subject is powered at 60 Hz. The inductor presents a low impedance, coupling the 60 Hz energy to the supply, while the capacitor presents a high impedance to the 60 Hz energy, preventing coupling of the 60 Hz to the active circuit.

[0119] FIG. 17 shows an electronic device with an external antenna connected to an audio input port. The audio signal requires a bandwidth of up to 20 kHz, which means that the ratio of the activation signal to the audio signal is lower than in the previous example of a 60 Hz supply. This lower ratio may require a more complex filter structure to achieve the required signal isolation. In the audio path of this example, a shunt capacitor is added in addition to the inductor, which greatly attenuates the filtered active signal (speeds up the cut-off characteristic). Due to the low audio input signal level, additional components are required to avoid damage to the audio input stage. This can be achieved with a simple two-diode clamp circuit with an appropriately sized resistor. When the subject is powered in normal operation, the active power diode D1 is reverse biased by the subject's power supply and therefore presents a high impedance to the audio signal. This isolates the audio signal from the active circuit and also isolates the audio circuit from noise sources in the active circuit.

[0120] FIG. 18 shows an electronic device with an external antenna connected to an audio output port. As shown in Figure 17, for audio signals, the filter topology is more complex. In this case, since the connector is an audio output, a different topology is required to prevent overloading the audio output circuit. While a simple two-pole LC filter has been implemented, more poles may be required here to achieve the desired isolation of the active signal without affecting the response of the audio signal. In addition, as shown in the figure, an isolation filter needs to be placed in the feedback loop of the audio output amplifier shown, so as to reduce the influence on the frequency response of the audio.

[0121] FIG. 19 shows an electronic device with an external antenna connected to a device (ie, a power supply unit, PSE) that provides DC power to other devices. Due to the large output capacitance associated with the DC power supply, the isolation network does not require its own filter capacitor. The added inductance, combined with the PSE output filter capacitor, forms the isolation network that isolates the subject circuit from the loaded RFA signal. In the case of an audio amplifier output, it is desirable to have an isolation network in the feedback loop of the output voltage regulator to reduce the impact of the isolation network on the proper operation of the power supply unit.

[0122] FIG. 20 shows an electronic device with an external antenna connected to an object powered by an external DC power source, such as rectified DC power from an AC power outlet on a wall. This type of object is called a Powered Device (PD). As shown, the isolation network for the subject's power supply consists of a single inductor. The input filter capacitor of the object power supply together with the inductor forms a low-pass filter which presents a high impedance to the activation signal, thereby isolating the activation signal from the power circuit. This inductance helps reduce external high-frequency noise when the object is powered by a functioning external DC power source. Since the input filter capacitors are usually large (high capacitance), clamping diodes are not required.

[0123] FIG. 21 shows an electronic device with an external antenna connected to a video input. Since the video signal and the active signal overlap in the frequency domain, these signals cannot be effectively isolated using a passive filtering isolation network. In this case isolation can be accomplished by a switching device, such as a relay or solid state switch, which is powered from the object power supply during normal object operation. During activation, when the object is powered off, relay K1 sends an activation signal to the activation circuit. When power is applied to the object, power is applied to relay K1 so that the video signal is sent by relay K1 to the normal object circuit instead of the activation input. This enables a high degree of isolation between the active signal and the target circuit. This approach is possible for all systems where the connector used is not the power supply for the object. Signal switching can also be accomplished with solid state switches instead of relays. In these cases, two solid-state switches may need to be connected in series back-to-back so that their underlying diodes do not turn on and present an active signal when the object is powered off.

[0124] Using the methods described above and illustrated in FIGS. 16-21, many other object connectors can be used as ports for activation signals. Many connectors have unused pins that can be used for active signals without any isolation network. Such connectors include, but are not limited to, the following: USB ports, Ethernet ports, mouse ports, keyboard ports, PCMCIA ports, memory card ports, S-video ports, game ports, serial ports, parallel ports, phone jacks, and battery connectors .

[0125] As previously stated, it would be beneficial in day-to-day work to use a secure method and system to effectuate changes in the utility of items ("objects") under certain conditions (i.e., when the customer has paid for the product) many aspects of. As the following examples illustrate, this ranges from renting movies and video games at home to preventing theft in the vendor-retailer supply chain. For the convenience of manufacturers, retailers, and consumers, there is a great need for a method and system that works with objects in an operable state, such as a DVD, or in an inoperable state, such as a DVD player in a sealed carton .

[0126] Novel methods and systems for implementing object utility alteration are presented herein. Objects can be in an operable or inoperable state. Changes are effected by combining with objects. Changes are based on communication with nearby activating devices. The described methods and systems are implementations for implementing object utility changes. Objects can be in an operable or inoperable state. Changes are implemented in conjunction with objects and depend on communication with nearby activation devices. The methods and systems described herein are used to effect changes in objects, thereby restoring their utility, whose utility was previously intentionally limited. Objects can be in an operable or inoperable state. Changes are based on communication with nearby activating devices.

[0127] As an example, a certain product (object) shipped by a manufacturer includes a public identifier ("object ID") and an associated private key ("object's key") as well as "keys for implementing changes" inside the object. device". The vendor sends the object's ID and private key to the Network Operations Center ("NOC"), respectively. The utility of the object is intentionally limited, either at the vendor or later. The reasons for doing this may be various, such as to prevent thieves from stealing the object before it is purchased or to facilitate new business models (such as a new rental model). To restore the object's utility, bring it close to an "activator": the device is communicatively connected to it. The activator obtains the Object ID and transfers it to the NOC. The NOC uses the object ID from the activator to look up the key associated with the object. The NOC transmits the object's key to the activator, which in turn transmits the information to the object. The object receives the object key from the activator, so that the device inside the object that realizes the state change of the object is activated according to appropriate conditions, and the utility of the object is restored; the condition is to receive the object's private key.

[0128] To realize the condition of satisfying the change inside the object, logically speaking, it is necessary to include one or more conditional events on the device outside the object. For example, an object, such as a calculator, may require an object key wirelessly transmitted from a nearby activator to close an electronic switch inside the object, thereby allowing the object's battery to power the object. If the correct key for the object is not received, the electronic switch remains open and the object cannot function (the utility of the object remains limited and the holder of the object cannot benefit from it). The first condition for the activator to obtain the correct object key from the NOC is to query the object and obtain the object ID. A possible further condition for the activator to transfer the object key obtained from the NOC to the object is that the consumer has paid for the object. Therefore, a prerequisite for the activator to transmit the object key is to receive notification that payment has been made through the "link system" (ie cash register or other payment system).

[0129] The NOC will also use the object ID to look up information rather than the object key associated with the activation transaction (eg, production lot number, shipment date, issue date, price and transaction-related decision rules, etc.). In this way, the NOC can implement one or more transactions and transmit one or more related signals to the object (or object and activator). Signals from the NOC or activator also communicate with signals from or to linked systems (such as payment processors), dealers or vendors (such as for billing and inventory management purposes), retailers, and the like. Signals described herein (eg, signal 751 in FIG. 8 ) may be one or more passive (eg, barcode) and active (eg, RF or electrical) signals; , device identifier and IP address) into one or more separate (affiliated or independent) communications. Communications may include data (information in analog or digital form) and/or power. As shown, one or more symbols (arrows) are used in the figure to emphasize the direction of data flow and power supply. Here, however, the number of symbols does not define or limit the number of communications between two entities, nor the number of data elements or power elements therein.

[0130] Generally, objects are tangible entities, while data or content is intangible. For example, an optical disc is an object, but the content stored on the disc (such as software, movies, music, etc.) is not. All objects have an operational state (such as a DVD or a DVD player plugged in). Many objects, including most motorized devices, also have an inoperable state (such as an unpowered DVD player still in the box). Objects may also be active or inactive. Deliberately restricting an inactive object in one or more ways, thereby affecting its utility. The utility of the activated object (all or some of its components) is restored or recreated by implementing a change in the utility of the object.

[0131] Activating an object is the process of restoring or recreating the utility of the object. Objects in both working and non-working states can operate in cooperation with "activators" or modules. Objects can be activated regardless of their working or non-working state. Effectors (change-implementing devices) that limit an object's utility may be reversed, repeated, or permanently altered. In some instances, effectors (and thus limiting consequences) may be partially or fully negated by other modules (such as shunts). There may be one or more effectors (change realization devices) that limit the utility of the object. For example, an effector might be an electronic switch that turns on in a circuit that connects a DVD player's on/off circuit to a power source. As another example, the effector might be a thin electro-optic film layer on a DVD that can interfere with the DVD player's ability to read DVD content. Effectors can also be logic or data and what they store.

[0132] Effectors (change implementers) capable of changing object utility are often set by the manufacturer before shipment, but may also be set by distributors or system integrators. It is also possible to automatically perform (repeat) settings when the object comes into the hands of the customer, e.g. a disc that can be automatically deactivated, and when used for a certain period of time (such as a rental period), it can automatically fall back to the inactive state, making the DVD player unreadable Get its contents.

[0133] Objects may be consumer electronics and computer products (DVD players, video game consoles and consoles, televisions, digital cameras, telephones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), batteries, calculators, computers, printers, fax machines, monitors, portable music and video recorders, car stereos, etc.), instruments and tools (especially electronically controlled), and watches. The object may also be a medium such as an optical disc (eg CD, DVD), for example, which has means for changing its optical properties. Objects may also be system components and replacement elements (such as hard drives, memory cards, etc.). Objects may also be tools, machinery, etc.

[0134] An object's utility is often its primary function (for example: a radio plays music, a printer prints, a disc stores data accessed by a player or drive, etc.). The term "utility" herein may be understood as any use, function, property, etc. of an object. The utility of an object can also be understood as any benefit (including sensory benefit) obtained from a product, especially those benefits whose rejection would affect the use or value of the object.

[0135] An object integrates activation means to conditionally implement one or more changes in response to one or more external signals. Some or all of the activation means may be a supplement to the original product. These devices can be partially or completely removed. Typical activation means include: communication means, conditional logic ("logic"), memory, change implementation modules, power, and a common object identifier ("object ID"). The activation device may also include a hidden or private key (the "object key") and other elements necessary to perform activation (such as means for confirming the activation status of the object). In some cases, the activator may include only the memory storing the object ID, the module and power supply that effect the change, or only the module and power source that effect the change.

[0136] Components of the object (eg, communication module, power supply, object ID, etc.) are typically attached to the object, although these components may use, in whole or in part, elements inherent to the object. For example, a calculator's existing battery can be used as a power source to avoid the need for an auxiliary battery or module to draw power from an external power source. Figure 22 is a diagram of an object 700 incorporating an activation device 710 comprising:

communication module 771;

logic 712;

memory 713;

change implementation module 714;

power supply 715;

Object ID 716;

Object key 717.

[0137] The communications module 711 enables communications including data or power to external devices. The communication module 711 may be one or more wired or wireless systems. For example, infrared (IR) and radio frequency (RF) transmitter/receivers. The communication module 711 also supports one-way or two-way communication. Logic 712 includes modules implementing implicit or explicit decision rules within objects that conditionally make changes to objects through communication with external devices. Logic 712 effectively determines what alterations, if any, to implement using signals received from external devices. Logic 712 may use any of several different modules alone or in combination, such as electronic switches, gate array circuits, or microprocessors. The memory 713 may store data, decision rules, instructions, etc., and be associated with the object 700 or the activation process. For example, the memory 713 may store information (such as product code, production date and batch code, etc.) stored by the manufacturer before shipment, information received during transportation (such as distributor identifier, routing code, etc. Information received upon object activation (e.g. date of sale, retailer identifier, activation device identifier, customer information and preferences, usage parameters/options - how many times and for how long the object has been used), etc. Storage 713 may be centralized or separate (e.g., storage of object ID 716 and object key 717 separate from storage of data received in transit). The memory 713 may be programmable, writable, erasable, or read-only, among others. Memory 713 may be in electronic or other form, such as an optically readable label such as a barcode.

[0138] The change implementation module 714 may be a combination of one or more types. For example: power/electronic switches, electromechanical locks, programmable/erasable memories, electro-optic films, etc., and all related components necessary to implement changes. The work of change implementation module 714 may be performed according to logic 712 . An important aspect of the embodiment of the present invention is to activate the object. The device that transmits the activation information does not need to know what activation device is integrated in the object, how to implement the change, what kind of change is implemented, or how to affect the utility of the object. The power supply 715 supplies power to the components of the activation device 710 (such as the communication module 711, the logic 712, etc.). Power source 715 may be an energy storage such as a battery that is charged prior to shipment from the manufacturer. The power supply 714 may be a module that wirelessly receives power from an external source, such as an antenna that receives RF broadcasts or electromagnetic radiation. The power supply 715 may also be an electrical contactor for receiving electrical power from an external source. The power supply 715 may be a combination of different acquisition, storage and transmission modules used to power the components of the activation device 710 . It should be understood that the power supply 715 should include the necessary components to provide appropriate available electrical power to the other components of the activation device 710 .

[0139] Object ID 716 is associated with activation device 710 and/or object 700. In certain cases, object ID 716 may include an identifier that is common to activation device 710 and object 700. Object ID 716 is generally accessible by external (public) devices. Object ID 716 may be unique to activation device 710 or object 700 (such as a string of numbers), or be common to activation devices and objects having similar characteristics or attributes, or members of the same group or class. Object ID 716 may include one or more data stored in memory 713. Such object ID 716 may also be stored in one or more different types of memory or in one or more locations. Object ID 716 may also be stored in object 700 or its packaging (such as a box housing a computer). The object ID may or may not be directly connected to the object 700 or the activation device 700 . The object key 717 is associated with the object ID 716 and cannot be accessed by external (private) devices corresponding to the shared object ID 716. The object key 717 may be stored in the memory 713, and may include various data and/or algorithms, etc. required to implement a secure transaction.

[0140] FIG. 23 shows an example of another configuration of the activation device 710. A wireless embodiment of communication module 711 (such as an RF transmitter or receiver) and power supply 715 are placed external to object 700 . Logic 712, memory 713, implementation change module 714, object ID 716, and object key 717 are all placed inside object 700. The internal and external components are connected to each other through connection modules 718 . The connection module may be a wire, ribbon cable, etc., or the connection module may be connected to the perimeter of the object (eg, by connecting a connector to a box housing the object 700).

[0141] The optional configuration shown in FIG. 23 is necessary, for example, to activate the object when, for example, the design of the object interferes with wireless communication with an external device. Most consumer electronics products are specifically designed to minimize RF transmissions. In response to this problem, the functional elements of the activation device using the wireless communication module can be distributed in two or more locations; some of them are inside the object and others are outside the object.

[0142] FIG. 23 is a configuration example of an activation device, which is assumed to be a DVD player with an activation device 710 (object 700). The electronic switch (change implementation module 714) is integrated in a circuit (trace) of the printed circuit board of the DVD, which is disconnected from the switch of the power supply. The switch is left open when shipped from the factory, and when the switch is open, the DVD player will not power up unless the switch is closed. Microcontroller and memory 713 included in logic 712 are interfaced with switches and ribbon cables (connection module 718). The ribbon cable plugs into a multi-pin (male) jack mounted on the DVD player's metal housing. Plugged into the jack is an RF transceiver and transformer (communication module 711 and power supply 715) capable of receiving data and power from an external RF source. When RF signals including data and power are received by subsystems (groups of components) outside object 700, these signals are passed on to internal subsystems that conditionally effectuate utility changes in object 700 by closing switches , thereby restoring the utility of the DVD player; power is applied when the power switch is closed. The combination of communication module 711, power supply 715 and connection module 718 (or parts thereof) can be mass-produced independently of other system components. An advantage of this is that each subsystem can be mass-produced independently of the other. In addition, external systems can also be easily removed.

[0143] FIG. 24 represents an embodiment of an object 700 and an activation 710, which includes a memory 713, a change implementation module 714, a power source 715, and an object ID 716. For example, object 700 is an optical disc placed in a paper disc sleeve with a printed barcode (memory 713) including the DVD product code (object ID 716). The DVD is appropriately placed in the electromagnetic field of the power source 715 to effect a modification of the electro-optic film (alteration realization module 714) to change the object from a first state to a second state. When in the first state, the electro-optic film prevents the laser head of the DVD player from accessing the contents of the DVD. When in the second state (activated state), the electro-optic film allows the laser head of the DVD player to read the contents of the DVD. Alternatively, place the electronic switch on or inside the DVD player. Electronic switches are used to control the state of the electro-optic film. Electronic switches may be implemented and controlled in the manner described in other embodiments described herein.

[0144] FIG. 25 shows the activator 720. Activator 720 is a device that activates object 700; transmits data and/or power to an activation device such as one of the activation devices shown in FIGS. 1-3; implements decision rules and security; mediates other devices and systems and activating communication between devices 710; and supporting user interaction, etc. The utility of the activator 720 may be included in a single entity or a composite entity, or may be configured differently depending on the application. The activator 720 may also be integrated into or co-located with a device such as a barcode scanner or other commonly used device where activation occurs. For example, an activator 720 at a checkout counter at a retail location is typically stationary, powered by a 115V (in the US) AC power source, and communicates via a wired connection with the NOC and/or a linked system such as a cash register. However, the activator 720 for media/customer centric applications may also be mobile, battery powered, and in wireless communication with the NOC.

[0145] Independent of the particular system embodiment (eg, retailer, media/customer), activator 720 includes proximity communication module 721, processor 722, memory 723, and power supply 724. The activator 720 may further include one or more of the following:

identifier("Activation ID") 725;

activator key 726;

General communication module 727;

input module 728;

visual output module 729;

Security module 730.

[0146] The proximity communication module 721 is used to communicate data and/or power to the activation device 710. Proximity communication module 721 may support one or more wired and wireless means, including but not limited to IR, UV, RF, electromagnetic, acoustic, electrical induction (via direct contact), and the like. For example, electromagnetic radiation may be used to transmit power to the activation device 710 while RF is used to transmit and receive data or a combination of data and power with the same or different signals. Processor 722 is typically a general-purpose microprocessor or an application-specific integrated circuit or other suitable device for processing data and instructions. When the activator 726 is integrated into a point-of-sale system, the processor 722 may be shared with other devices (other elements of the activator), such as a scanner or cash register, etc.

[0147] Memory 723 is typically electronic, and may be programmable, writable, erasable, or read-only. The information stored in memory 723 may be temporary or permanent, and may include data, decision rules, instructions, etc. associated with activator 720, activation device 720, NOC and link systems and transactions, and the like. For example, memory 723 may include information (e.g., activator ID 725, activator key 726, product code, date of manufacture, and batch number) stored by the manufacturer prior to shipment. Memory 723 may also include information related to retailers or warehouse fronts (eg, retailer and warehouse front identifiers, retailer specific product/stock codes, etc.). Memory 723 may also include network and dial-up telephone addresses for communicating with the NOC and linked systems such as cash registers or barcode scanners. Memory 723 may also include object keys. Memory 723 may also include transaction-related information (eg, authorization, activation and validation history, elapsed time, etc.). Memory 723 may also include information received from input modules 728 (eg, card readers, keypads, etc.).

[0148] Power source 724 is typically a 715V (in the US) AC power source, although in some applications, such as media/consumer applications (see XYZ), battery powered. The activator ID 725 is associated with the activator 720 and is generally accessible by an external device (e.g., the activator 720, NOC, or link system). The activator ID 725 may be an ID unique to the activator 720 or a common ID for a group or class of devices, such as belonging to a particular store or retailer with other activators. Activator ID 725 is typically stored in electronic memory. The activator key 726 is data stored in the activator 720 that cannot be accessed by external devices (private), as opposed to the activator ID 725 (public), which is generally accessible by external devices. Typically the activator key 726 is data associated with the activator ID 725, although it may be stored or changed later, the key may be stored in the activator 720 at the same time as the activator ID 725. Activator key 726 may also be data associated or specific to a retailer, store, distributor, or external device or system such as an activator.

[0149] The general communication module 727 is a module for communicating with external devices and often devices and systems outside the device such as NOC or link system. The general purpose communication module 727 can support local and wide area wired and/or wireless networks. For example, the general communication module 726 may support a local area 802.11 wireless network connected to a wide area telecommunications network such as the Internet or a virtual private network to communicate with a remote NOC.

[0150] Input module 728 includes any module that receives input from a person (eg, a customer, user, or employee) who has accessed activator 720. Examples are keyboards, card readers, biometric sensors/scanners, etc. Inputs received via the input module 728 may be stored in and/or used by the activator 720 to effectuate the transaction or communicate it to the object 700, the NOC, or a suitable link system. The activator 720 may also have an output module 729 to transmit information to persons interacting with the activator 720 (eg, customers, users, and employees). The output module 729 may include in part one or more devices such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), light emitting diodes (LEDs), cathode ray tubes (CRTs), printers, and the like.

[0151] The activator may also have a security module 730 for implementing security at the activator 720, in particular preventing unauthorized access. Security module 730 may be a physically locked device. The security module 730 may also be a module for determining the geographic location of the activator 720 (eg, a GPS transponder). The security module 730 may conditionally (eg, time or signal dependent) communicate with other devices or systems, such as a cash register, LAN server, or NOC 740.

[0152] FIG. 26 shows a NOC 740 that can effectuate transactions. NOC 740 is a computer system, including in part a processor 742, a memory 742, and a communication module 743. Typically, NOC 740 is remote from where activator 720 and object 740 are activated. However, the NOC 740 can also be near the activator and the location of activation, such as a retail store. Furthermore, certain capabilities or functions implemented by the NOC 740, especially the storage of the object key 713, may be distributed among different locations and devices (such as retailers, storefronts, point-of-sale systems, activators, etc.). NOC 740 may receive, store and effectuate transactions utilizing data, decision rules, etc. received from various entities including, but not limited to, target vendors, distributors, retailers, payment processors, customer etc.; these different devices and systems are eg objects, activators and link systems. Communication with these entities, devices and systems can be via wired or wireless telecommunications networks.

[0153] FIG. The link system 750 may be adjacent to or co-located with the activator 720, or it may be remote from the activator 720. Link systems are, for example, cash registers, credit/debit card payment processing systems, and inventory systems.

[0154] FIG. 28 shows a schematic diagram of a system A for activating an object 700. System A includes:

object 700 (including activation means 710);

activator 720;

Proximity Communications 750.

[0155] Proximity communication 750 is used to transfer data and/or power between object 700 and activator 720. Proximity communication 750 may be one-way or two-way, and use one or more wired or wireless communication methods. Proximity communication 750 may be initiated by communication module 715 (object 700) or proximity communication module 721 (activator 720). For example, proximity communication 750 may be initiated by moving object 700 into an electromagnetic or RF field, placing object 700 in front of an infrared sensor, or making direct contact (eg, electronically or mechanically) with activator 720 . Proximity communication 750 may also be initiated by proximity communication module 721 by broadcasting RF signals received by communication module 711 (object 700). Proximity communication 750 may also be initiated by activator 720 receiving input from a linked system, such as a bar code reader, cash register, or media player.

[0156] FIG. 29 shows a first embodiment of a system A for activating an object 700 comprising an activation device 710. In one example of system A, activator 720 receives communication 751 including object ID 716, wherein object ID 716 is used to associate object 700 with data and/or decision rules stored in memory 723. The activator 720 (processor 722 ) executes the decision rules and communicates the correct activation signal 752 with the proximity communication module 727 . Object 700 receives communication 752 with communication module 711 . Logic 712 implements conditional logic and stores values (memory 713) and initiates change implementation modules 714 that implement changes to object 700 as appropriate.

[0157] The activator 720 may query the object 700 for the object ID 716. Alternatively, the activator 720 may receive a broadcast by the object 716 or a signal provided by the object 700 via the communication module 711 . An example of System A is a retail system where only products belonging to a specific retailer can be activated by the activator 720 in a retail store (where there is a retailer, an adjacent object, and a checkout station). In this example, activator 720 receives signal 751 from object 700, wherein object 700 includes object ID 716, which is used to identify object 700 as belonging to a particular retailer (e.g., a retailer code). If the activator 720 confirms that the object ID 716 belongs to a retailer that the activator 720 is authorized to activate, then the activator 720 sends an activation signal including the retail code (communication 752). Object 700 receives signal 752 and compares the retail code to the value stored in memory 713 . If there is a match, for example, processor logic 712 initiates change implementation module 714, eg, to close a circuit, so that object 700 works properly (restores its utility). The power source 715 mentioned in the examples above may be an internal battery or an external power source (such as communication 752).

[0158] FIG. 30 represents a system B capable of activating an object 700 (with activation means 710), transmitting relevant information (communication 753) to a link system 750. Communication 753 may include one or more data transfers (not shown) in serial or parallel to one or more link systems.

[0159] Communication 753 may include data related to object 700, and/or data related to activator 720 (e.g., activator ID 725). For example, communication 753 may include an object identifier 716, which may be received by connected system 750 (eg, a cash register) to effect a financial transaction (ie, charge a customer for object 700) and update an inventory. A specific example is that communication 753 simulates a barcode that is typically read by a barcode scanner. Communication 753 may be dependent on communication of communication 752 (e.g., an activation signal has been sent to object 700 prior to communication 753, wherein link system 750 uses communication 753, thereby billing the customer), or communication 752 may be dependent on communication 753. Communication (eg, billing the client for object 716 prior to activating object 700). Communications 753 may include data related to activation of object 700 obtained via activator 720 from sources other than object 700 (eg, employee identifiers or promotional codes entered via input module 728 ). Another example of system B is that communication 753 includes systems related to the activation of object 700, where object 700 communicates with link system 750, which is the manufacturer or distributor of object 700 (such as for inventory/production management , auditing, etc.) computer systems.

[0160] FIG. 31 shows another embodiment of a system B capable of activating an object 700 (with activation device 710), in which activation communication (communication 752) is dependent on communication 754 from link system 750. For example, communication 752 may rely on activator 720 receiving a signal that a financial transaction has been completed by link system 750, eg, that a customer has paid for an object 700 purchased before object 700 is activated.

[0161] Another example of System B is a system in which communication 752 relies on activator 720 receiving communication 754 from link system 750 (inventory system) confirming the quantity of object 700 available for sale in inventory.

[0162] Yet another example of system B is where object 700 is a restricted class of item, such as a movie suitable for adults (eg, an R-rated DVD) or an age-rated video game. In this case, link system 750 receives object ID 716 via communication 753 to determine whether additional input (such as an employee identifier or customer birthday) is required before communicating 754. The same conditional logic can also be accomplished through the activator 720, and employee input can be obtained at the activator 720 or at the link system 750 through manual input or card swiping. In another example of system B, the change of the object 700 conditionally depends on the communication 752 (such as some of the following variables: the activation time period of the object, the number of times the object is used, the accessible content, the function to be activated, etc.), and Communication 752 in turn conditionally depends on variables included in communication 754 .

[0163] In addition to the activation device 710, the object 700 may also incorporate a device for determining whether an expected change in an object has occurred (such as checking that an electrical circuit is closed, or measuring an object's electrical or optical properties). Such a device may be included within object 700 and in communication with activator 720 . The device may also be located between the subject 700 and the activator 720 (eg, a circuit spanning the subject and the activator and being detected/measured in the activator). Such a device can also be connected to conditional or Boolean logic in the object (such as sending a signal to an activator if a measurement exceeds a certain threshold), which sends a confirmation signal to a link system (cash register), etc. Conditional logic is implemented using information received from the NOC (values or decision rules, etc.).

FIG. 32 shows a specific example of system B, wherein communication 753 relies on activator 720, which receives communication 751a (from the device that determines the variable characteristics of object 700), which can verify object 700 has been changed (activated). For example, the cash register (link system 750) receives communication 753, relies on activator 720 to receive communication 751a, and confirms that object 700 has been activated before charging the customer for object 700.

[0165] FIG. 33 represents a system C capable of activating an object 700 (with an activation device 720) and comprising an object 700, an activator 720 and a NOC 740. An example of System C is a system in which activator 720 receives object ID 716 via communication 751. Activator 720 transmits communication 755 including object ID 716 to NOC 740. NOC 740 receives communication 755 and then queries object key 717 through association with object ID 716. NOC 740 transmits part of communication 756 including object key 717 to activator 720. Upon receipt of communication 756, activator 720 transmits an activation communication that partially includes object ID 713 (communication 752). Object 700 receives object key 716 via communication 752 , and logic 712 uses object key 716 to activate change implementation module 714 to implement changes in object 700 . In another example of System C, communication 755 includes an activator ID 725, which is used by NOC 740 to authenticate activator 720. In another example of the system C, the communication 755 includes input from the input module 728 (such as user ID number or PIN code, or credit card swiping, etc.), and the NOC 740 uses this to conditionally realize the communication 756.

[0166] FIG. 34 shows System D in which communication 753 is conditionally dependent on communication 756. For example, communication 756 may include information (transmitted as communication 753 via activator 720) of the price that link system 750 is to charge the customer. Communication 753 may be conditionally dependent on Communication 756 which in turn is conditionally dependent on Activator ID 725 received via Communication 755. For example, it is up to the object 700 and the retailer (associated with the activator ID 725) that the link system 750 charges the customer.

[0167] Communication 756 may include other data about object 700 that is used by activator 720 to effectuate a transaction (such as a price or fee for object 700) when NOC 740 transmits an authorization code (object key 717). Communication 753, communication 754, communication 755, and communication 756 may be used individually or in combination to identify, authenticate or authorize activator 720 to prevent unauthorized use. For example, NOC 740 or link system 750 may ensure security by methods such as denying an activator's request to participate in a transaction (e.g., providing an object key) if the activator has not first been identified, authenticated, and authorized. Besides specific data and algorithms for this purpose (eg activator key 726), other modules (eg GPS transmitter and receiver, relative and absolute time signals, etc.) may also be used.

Fig. 35 shows system D, wherein communication 756 is conditionally dependent on communication 754; for example, NOC 740 transfer object key 716 depends on the notification that NOC 740 receives, and this notification is already in link system 750 (via The activator 720) makes the payment. In another example of system D, communication 752 is conditionally dependent on communication 754 and communication 756 ; eg, activator 720 initiates communication 751 only after receiving both communication 754 and communication 756 .

[0169] FIG. 36 shows System E, wherein NOC 740 receives communication 757 from link system 750. Communication 757 may include data from object 700 (such as object ID 716), activator 720 (such as activator ID), and link system 750 (such as notification of whether payment has been made). Communication 758 may include data for link system 750 (eg, purchase confirmation), activator 720 (eg, activator key 726 ), and object 700 (eg, object key 717 ).

[0170] FIG. 37 represents System F, wherein an object 700 comprising an object ID 716 and an object key 717 is transmitted (transmission 761) from a vendor 760 to a store 770 and activated at the store. Vendor 760 sends Object ID 716 and Object Key 717 to NOC 740 via communication 762. Communication 762 is typically via a telecommunications network. To activate object 700 in store 770, the object is placed in proximity to activator 720, which is communicatively connected to NOC 740. Activator 720 obtains object ID 716 from object 700 via communication 751 and transmits object ID 716 to NOC 740 via communication 755. NOC 740 looks up object key 717 associated with object ID 716 in memory 742, wherein the memory includes at least in part information obtained from vendor 760 via communication 762. NOC 740 communicates object key 717 to activator 720 via communication 756, which in turn communicates object key 717 to object 700 via communication 752. The logic 712 in the object 700 compares the object key 717 transmitted by the activator 720 with the object key 717 stored in the memory 713, and if the two match, the logic 712 activates the change implementer 714, which then converts the object 700 recovery utility.

[0171] FIG. 38 shows System G, which is an extended embodiment of System F and includes a link system 750 (such as a cash register) communicatively connected to an activator 720 in a store 770; System G further includes communication 764 between NOC 740 and vendor 760. Communications 764 may include data related to objects that activate vendor 706 .

[0172] FIG. 39 shows a system H in which an object 700 including an object ID 716 and an object key 717 is transported from a vendor 760 to a customer's residence 772 through a retail distribution channel 771. Retail distribution channel 771 may consist of multiple entities and locations to accommodate different customer retail models, including Internet/telephone/mail order as well as traditional bricks-and-mortar retailing. System H further includes a link system 773 communicatively connected to NOC 773. Link system 773 may be the computer system of the retailer of object 700 and includes customer information related to activating the transaction (such as authorizing a purchase) and communicates via communication 763 to the NOC.

[0173] FIG. 40 shows an object 700 within a package 780 (eg, a DVD in a compact DVD case, a computer in a cardboard box, etc.). Figure 41 represents one or more communications that involve bridging or passing through wrapper 780 and communicating (data and/or energy) between object 700 and an external device. Such communication may be by wireless or wired media or means, or a combination of various media or means suitable for relaying data and/or energy, including: wires, ribbon cables, open windows or Lenses (visible light, IR, UV radiation); RF, acoustic, electromagnetic transmitters/receivers, antennas, rectifiers, sources of energy radiation (e.g. light-emitting diodes). For example, communication 781 may transmit energy wirelessly through electromagnetic fields. Communication 782 may transmit data and power wirelessly via RF. Communications 783 and 784 may transmit data and power via cables using a bridge-pack approach. Communications 783 and 784 may be by different methods, such as wired/electronic (183) and UV (184) methods, or RF (183) and electronic/wired (184) methods.

[0174] FIG. 42 shows an object 700 within a package 780, on or in which package 780 includes distributed elements of memory 713. The memory 713 in this configuration may include an object ID 716 or other information used to activate the object 700, stored in the form of, for example, a printed barcode or RFID tag.

[0175] A communication method between the external device and the storage 713 may be different from a method of direct communication between the external device and the object 700. For example, infrared communication 791 (such as a barcode scanner) may be used to transfer the object ID from memory 713 . As another example, memory 713 including object ID 716 is integrated into an RFID tag embedded in packaging 780 and accessed via RF communication 792. In the latter instance, RFID can be enhanced so that communication module 793 can be utilized to bridge communication between the external device and object 700 . The communication module 793 may be used differently from the communication 792 between the memory 713 and an external device.

[0176] Activation means 710 may be combined into a single, mass-producible item, thereby supplementing the existing industry standard: "RFID Sensor", comprising:

Communication module 711 (RF transceiver);

logic 712 and memory 713 (microcontroller);

Alteration implementing means 714: for example, an electronic switch with two outputs;

Power supply 715 (RF transceiver/rectifier);

Object ID 716;

Object key 717.

[0177] The upper RFID effector can be configured as a single unit, and can be configured to bridge gaps in data or power circuits (e.g., gaps in printed circuit board traces); each side ends in a raised pad , Weld the output terminal of the module to realize the change. When the change implementation module is activated (switch closed), the circuit is complete and the utility of object 700 is restored.

[0178] Optionally, the change implementation module 714 (switch) can be separated from the RFID effector and embedded in an inaccessible or unknown location in the object 700 (such as within a printed circuit board, or where the object is removed from the RFID effector). below or behind a section). Once the correct conditions are met (such as receipt of an appropriate activation communication), the RFID validator closes the switch, restoring the object's utility.

[0179] The various systems and methods described herein have a number of advantages and differences over previous systems, including:

activation does not need to depend on the object to conditionally initialize activation modules; these modules are inside the object;

Activation is not performed at the network level, excluding changes to objects (e.g. authorized credit cards or prepaid phone cards);

"Activation" is not limited to changing the data stored in the object's memory, external devices (such as computers) or networks (credit card processing) can also use it to achieve changes in how to use the output of the object (for example, encrypted data will not weaken the DVD player ability to "read" a DVD; merely impairs the DVD player's ability to "interpret" the data);

There is no irreversible restriction on the object or object manipulation module so that its utility is permanently changed;

No changes are made until information about the object (e.g., in response to a deactivation signal) or a general activation signal (e.g., sensing a security tag) is available; and

Objects can be activated in their non-working state (eg, without first taking the object out of its packaging and plugging it in).

[0180] While certain preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that various modifications and extensions to the techniques described above are possible using the present invention. All such modifications and extensions are included within the true spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims (216)

1. distribute control system for one kind, comprising:

Object, described object further comprises:

Change implement device, be used to change the effectiveness of described object;

Be stored in the key in the memory, described memory is used for the described key of limiting access;

Receiver is used to receive data; And

Be connected to the logic of described change implement device, and described logic utilizes described key and received data, optionally switch described change implement device; And

Activated terminals, described activated terminals further comprises:

The visit approach that leads to described data; And

Transmitter is used for described data are sent to the receiver of described object.

2. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein, described activated terminals comes described data are conducted interviews by obtain described data from server.

3. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein, described activated terminals comes described data are conducted interviews by obtain described data from the network operation center.

4. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein, described activated terminals comes described data are conducted interviews, so that other data from described object acquisition are made response by generating described data.

5. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein, described activated terminals comes described data are conducted interviews by obtaining described data, so that other data from described object acquisition are made response.

6. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein, the receiver of described object and the transmitter of described activated terminals carry out radio communication.

7. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein:

Described object comprises addressable identifier; And

Described activated terminals comprises the reader that is used to receive described addressable identifier.

8. according to the distribution control system of claim 7, further comprise:

Network operation center, described network operation center have the database that one group of data is associated with one group of addressable identifier;

Network between described network operation center and the described activated terminals connects; And

Wherein, described network operation center receives described addressable identifier from described activated terminals, discerns the described data that are associated with described addressable identifier, and described data are sent to described activated terminals.

9. distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described activated terminals is sent to described object with described data.

10. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, further comprise:

The network operation center, described network operation center has the database of data; And

Network between described network operation center and the described activated terminals connects.

11. the distribution control system according to claim 1 further comprises:

The network operation center, described network operation center has the algorithm that is used to generate described data, so that other data that receive from described activated terminals are made response; And

Network between described network operation center and the described activated terminals connects.

12. the distribution control system according to claim 1 further comprises:

Described activated terminals further comprises terminal identifier;

Network operation center, described network operation center have the database of data and the activated terminals of one group of mandate;

Network between described network operation center and the described activated terminals connects;

Wherein, described network operation center receives described terminal identifier from described activated terminals, and and if only if described terminal identifier when described activated terminals being identified as one of activated terminals of described one group of mandate, described network operation center just sends to described activated terminals with described data.

13. the distribution control system according to claim 1 further comprises:

Described activated terminals further comprises secure identifier;

Network operation center, described network operation center have the database of data and the activated terminals of one group of mandate;

Network between described network operation center and the described activated terminals connects, and each activated terminals has relevant security admission tabulation;

Network between described network operation center and the described activated terminals connects;

Wherein, described network operation center receives described secure identifier from described activated terminals, and and if only if described secure identifier when being positioned among the security admission tabulation of described activated terminals, described network operation center just sends to described activated terminals with described data.

14. according to the distribution control system of claim 13, wherein, described secure identifier be absolute time signal, cycle time signal, handshake, locating information or mailing address.

15. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein, described activated terminals further comprises payment affirmation device, is used to acknowledge receipt of customer payment.

16. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein, described activated terminals further comprises:

The link of leading to remote server;

Communication module is used for receiving message from described remote server; And

Wherein, in response to the message of being received, described activated terminals sends to described object with described data.

17. according to the distribution control system of claim 16, wherein, described data storing is in described remote server.

18. according to the distribution control system of claim 16, wherein, described data storing is in being different from the server of described remote server.

19. according to the distribution control system of claim 16, wherein, described activated terminals and described remote server are all in local place.

20. according to the distribution control system of claim 16, wherein, described activated terminals is in local place, and described remote server is in different places.

21. according to the distribution control system of claim 16, wherein, described communication module is in response to receiving described message from described remote server, from the described data of another server requests.

22. according to the distribution control system of claim 16, wherein, described communication module is in response to receiving described message from described remote server, from the described data of described remote server request.

23. the distribution control system according to claim 16 further comprises:

Described communication module is further used for authorization request message is sent to described remote server, and

Wherein, received message is represented to confirm to authorize.

24. according to the distribution control system of claim 23, wherein, described authorization messages is the message of mandate, request membership mandate, request password authorization or the mandate of request personal code of requesting for payment.

25. according to the distribution control system of claim 23, wherein, described authorization requests is the request of requirement check, credit card, cheque card or debit card payment authorization, and received message is the affirmation of paying the bill and having authorized.

26. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein, described activated terminals further comprises input unit, is used to receive the authorization message from client.

27. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein, described to as if tangible medium, and described change implement device is electric convertible optical material.

28. distribution control system according to claim 27, wherein, described tangible medium can be one of following: bill, complimentary ticket, document, credit card product labelling and label, safety device, storage card, movably computer storage, CD, DVD, CD and recreation cassette tape.

29. it is, wherein, described to liking electronic installation according to the distribution control system of claim 1.

30. according to the electronic installation of claim 19, wherein, described electronic installation can be one of following: computer; Game machine; Integrated circuit (IC) chip; Processor; Camera; TV; Phone; PDA (personal data/digital assistants); Calculator; Portable music, video or game player; Control electronics or instrument; Wrist-watch; Printer; Facsimile machine; Machinery; Instrument; And computer peripheral equipment.

31. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein, described change implement device is a switch that is mechanical, electronics, electric power, electric, dynamo-electric or logic, or the value in the memory location.

32. according to the distribution control system of claim 1, wherein, described to as if integrated circuit (IC) apparatus, and described change implement device is fuse, electric switch or logic switch.

33. an object comprises:

Mark can be observed in the outside, shows that described object has controlled effectiveness; And

Described object disposes controlled effectiveness.

34. according to the object of claim 33, wherein, described mark and change implement device make up together, so that described mark can be represented the slave mode of current described effectiveness.

35. according to the object of claim 33, wherein, described mark represents that described object can't use.

36. according to the object of claim 33, wherein, the effectiveness of described object is limited, till described object is activated.

37. it is, wherein, described to liking electronic installation according to the object of claim 33.

38. it is, wherein, described to liking tangible medium according to the object of claim 33.

39. it is, wherein, described to liking CD according to the object of claim 33.

40. a packing comprises:

Mark can be observed in the outside, and display object has controlled effectiveness;

Described object disposes controlled effectiveness, and described object is arranged in described packing; And

Wherein, described mark is positioned on the described packing.

41. a method that is used to distribute electronic installation comprises:

The electronic installation of receiving slave effectiveness under the first effectiveness state;

Described controlled electronic device is sent to the opposing party;

Confirm that described the opposing party is authorized to use described electronic installation under the second effectiveness state; And

The effectiveness of described electronic installation is controlled to be the described second effectiveness state.

42. according to the method for claim 41, wherein

Described first state is the effectiveness constrained state; And

Described controlled step comprises the limited effectiveness of recovering described electronic installation.

43. according to the method for claim 41, wherein:

Described first state is for recovering effectiveness; And

Described controlled step comprises the recovery effectiveness that limits described electronic installation.

44. the method according to claim 41 further comprises:

Show described controlled electronic installation in retail location; And

Described controlled electronic device is sold to client.

45. the method according to claim 44 further comprises: confirm described client's payment; And in response to confirming that payment controls the effectiveness of described electronic installation.

46. method according to claim 42, wherein, described limited electronic installation can be: limited computer, limited game machine, limited integrated circuit (IC) chip, limited processor, limited camera, limited TV, limited phone, limited PDA, limited calculator, limited portable music player, limited wrist-watch or limited computer peripheral equipment.

47. according to the method for claim 44, wherein, described retail location is a retail shop, and described controlled step is that point of sales terminal place in described retail shop carries out.

48. according to the method for claim 44, wherein, described retail location is an online shop, and described controlled step is carried out in the client location.

49. according to the method for claim 44, wherein, described retail location is the client location, and described controlled step is carried out in described client location.

50. a method of distributing medium comprises:

Receive constrained medium, thereby control specifies reader how can read described medium;

Send described constrained medium to the opposing party;

Confirm that described the opposing party is authorized to have the described constrained medium that is under returning to form, return to form down that described appointment reader can read described constrained medium described; And

According to how recovering described constrained medium, data are sent to described constrained medium.

51. the method according to claim 50 further comprises:

Show described constrained medium in retail location;

Described constrained medium is sold to client;

Confirm described client's payment.

52., wherein,, finish that described data are sent to described constrained medium in response to confirming described payment according to the method for claim 51.

53. according to the method for claim 51, wherein, described retail location is a retail shop, and described forwarding step is that point of sales terminal place in described retail shop carries out.

54. according to the method for claim 51, wherein, described retail location is an online shop, and described forwarding step is carried out in the client location.

55. according to the method for claim 51, wherein, described retail location is the client location, and described forwarding step is carried out in the client location.

56. according to the method for claim 50, wherein, described constrained medium can be tangible medium, CD, DVD, CD or recreation cassette tape.

57. the method for a controlling object distribution comprises:

Obtain one group of predefine key, comprise the predefine key that can change described object utility in the described key;

Receive identifier value;

Obtain the described predefine key that is associated with the described identifier value that receives; And

Send described predefine key.

58. the method according to claim 57 further may further comprise the steps: before sending described predefine key, authorize described object to go to change its effectiveness.

59. the method according to claim 57 further may further comprise the steps: before sending described predefine key, determine to authorize activated terminals to go to change its effectiveness.

60. according to the method for claim 58, wherein, described authorisation step comprises the payment of confirming described object.

61. according to the method for claim 58, wherein, described authorisation step comprises the buyer's who confirms licencing key, code or described object input.

62. the method according to claim 57 further may further comprise the steps: receive the affirmation that described object has changed its effectiveness.

63. the method according to claim 62 further may further comprise the steps: in response to receiving described affirmation, authority to pay is given the entity in the distribution chain.

64. the method according to claim 62 further may further comprise the steps: in response to receiving described affirmation, the entity in described distribution chain is reported described affirmation.

65. it is, wherein, described to liking electronic installation, CD or tangible medium according to the method for claim 57.

66. a point of sale device that is used to realize changing object utility comprises:

The module of authorization key is provided; And

Described authorization key is sent to the transmitter of described object.

67. the point of sale device according to claim 66 further comprises:

Reader is used for reading addressable identifier from described object; And

Wherein, the described module of authorization key that provides further comprises, with described authorization key and the described addressable identifier associated modules that reads from described object.

68. according to the point of sale device of claim 66, wherein, described reader and described transmitter carry out radio communication.

69. the point-of-sale activation device according to claim 66 further comprises:

Reader; And

Wherein, described reader is used for reading the affirmation value from described object, realizes in response to receiving described authorization key that to confirm described object effectiveness changes.

70. the point-of-sale activation device according to claim 66 further comprises:

Receiver; And

Wherein, described receiver is used for receiving the affirmation value of sending from described object, realizes in response to receiving described authorization key that to confirm described object effectiveness changes.

71. according to the point of sale device of claim 66, wherein, described transmitter is used for other data message is sent to described object.

72. according to the point of sale device of claim 66, further comprise input unit, be used to receive client's authorization message.

73. the point of sale device according to claim 66 further comprises:

Input unit is used to receive effectiveness and selects information; And

Wherein, according to described selection, select described authorization key to change described effectiveness.

74. according to the point of sale device of claim 66, further comprise input unit, be used to receive customer payment.

75. according to the point of sale device of claim 66, wherein, described transmitter has used radio communication.

76. according to the point of sale device of claim 66, wherein, the described module of authorization key that provides comprises that the network that leads to the network operation center connects.

77. according to the point of sale device of claim 76, wherein, the described module that authorization key is provided comprises the database of the authorization key that is stored in described network operation center.

78. according to the point of sale device of claim 66, wherein, the described module of authorization key that provides comprises that this locality is stored in the database of the authorization key of described point of sale device.

79. according to the point of sale device of claim 66, wherein, the described module of authorization key that provides comprises the connection of leading to remote server.

80. according to the point of sale device of claim 79, wherein, the described module that authorization key is provided comprises the database of the authorization key that is stored in remote server.

81. 0 point of sale device according to Claim 8, wherein, described point of sales terminal and described remote server are all in local place.

82. 0 point of sale device according to Claim 8, wherein, described point of sales terminal is in local place, and described remote server is in different places.

83. according to the point of sale device of claim 66, wherein, the described module of authorization key that provides is included in the local algorithm routine that generates described authorization key.

84. according to the point of sale device of claim 66, wherein, the described module that authorization key is provided is included in the algorithm routine of the described authorization key of long-range generation.

85. a distribution control system comprises:

Object, before entering its distribution chain, its effectiveness is to have a mind to restriction;

Authorization key, described authorization key can be sent to described object under authorising conditional; And

Wherein, select described authorization key, realize changing the limited effectiveness of described object.

86. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described object stores has the limited accass key with described authorization key equivalent.

87. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, the limited accass key that the with good grounds described authorization key of described object stores is determined.

88. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described object stores has the limited accass key, and described object uses described limited accass key and described authorization key to realize described change.

89. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described object stores has the limited accass key, and described object before the described change compares described limited accass key and described authorization key realizing.

90. 5 distribution control system wherein, is the payment of confirming the point of sales terminal place at authorising conditional described in the retail shop according to Claim 8.

91. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described to as if CD, and described authorization key can cause the variation of the electric convertible optical material in the described CD.

92. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described to as if tangible medium, and described authorization key can cause that the sensitization in the described tangible medium changes.

93. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described to as if electronic installation, and described authorization key can cause change mechanical, electric, electronics, switch electromechanics or logic.

94. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described to as if integrated circuit (IC) apparatus, and described authorization key can cause the variation of fuse, electric or logic switch.

95. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described effectiveness is meant the ability that the parts in described object or the described object power up.

96. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described effectiveness is meant that the parts in described object or the described object finish the ability of its initialization cycle.

97. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described effectiveness is meant the aesthetic appearance of described object.

98. 5 distribution control system according to Claim 8, wherein, described effectiveness is meant the ability that subsystem in described object or the described object or parts can operate as normal.

99. the method for a manufacturing object comprises:

The change implement device is installed on described object, so as to make object effectiveness under a kind of state be limited and under another kind of state described effectiveness be not limited;

Described change implement device is arranged under a certain state;

Storage limited accass key on described object;

Configuration is used for receiving the receiver of authorization key on described object; And

Configuration uses described authorization key and described limited accass key the state of described change implement device to be changed over the logic of other states.

100. the manufacture method according to claim 99 further comprises:

The a plurality of limited accass keys of storage on described object; And

Dispose described logic, change the state of described change implement device to use one of described authorization key and described limited accass key.

Manufacture method according to claim 99 further comprises:

A plurality of change implement devices are installed on described object, and each change implement device all is used to realize different effectiveness;

Dispose described logic, the state of at least one described change implement device is changed to other states to use described authorization key and described limited accass key.

Manufacture method according to claim 101 further comprises:

A plurality of change implement devices are installed on described object, and each change implement device all is used to realize different effectiveness;

Dispose described logic, the state of at least two described change implement devices is changed to other states to use described authorization key and described limited accass key.

Manufacture method according to claim 99 further may further comprise the steps: for described object provides addressable ident value.

Manufacture method according to claim 99 further may further comprise the steps: spanned file, described file is associated ident value and key.

According to the manufacture method of claim 99, wherein, described to as if tangible medium, and described change implement device is electric convertible optical material.

Manufacture method according to claim 105, wherein, described tangible medium can be for one of following: bill, complimentary ticket, document, credit card product labelling and label, safety device, storage card, movably computer storage, CD, DVD, CD and recreation cassette tape.

According to the manufacture method of claim 99, wherein, described to liking electronic installation.

According to the manufacture method of claim 107, wherein, described electronic installation can be for one of following: computer; Game machine; Integrated circuit (IC) chip; Processor; Camera; TV; Phone; PDA (personal data/digital assistants); Calculator; Portable music, video or game player; Control electronics or instrument; Wrist-watch; Printer; Facsimile machine; Machinery; Instrument; And computer peripheral equipment.

Manufacture method according to claim 99 further comprises:

Provide the described object utility of expression controlled mark; And

Described mark is affixed on outside observable place.

110. according to the manufacture method of claim 109, wherein, described mark is the label on the described object.

111. according to the manufacture method of claim 109, wherein, described mark is the label on the described object encapsulation.

112. the method for a controlling object effectiveness comprises:

Authorization object goes to change its effectiveness;

Request can change the authorization key of the mandate effectiveness of described object;

Send described authorization key.

113. according to the method for the controlling object effectiveness of claim 112, wherein, described authorisation step comprises from remote server confirmation of receipt message.

114. according to the method for the controlling object effectiveness of claim 113, wherein, described acknowledge message be confirm the message of payment, confirm password message, confirm clubbable message or confirm the message of biometric secure data.

115. the method according to the controlling object effectiveness of claim 112 further may further comprise the steps: receive described authorization key from remote server.

116. according to the method for the controlling object effectiveness of claim 112, wherein, the described request step comprises: receive the ident value relevant with described object.

117. method according to the controlling object effectiveness of claim 112:

Wherein, the described request step comprises: send ident value to remote server; And

Further may further comprise the steps: receive described authorization key from described remote server.

118. method according to the controlling object effectiveness of claim 112:

Wherein, the described request step comprises: send ident value to remote server; And

Further may further comprise the steps: receive described authorization key from another remote server.

119. method according to the controlling object effectiveness of claim 112:

Wherein, the described request step comprises the reception ident value; And

Produce described authorization key.

120. the method according to the controlling object effectiveness of claim 112 further may further comprise the steps:

Receive the affirmation message that described object utility has changed.

121. the method according to the controlling object effectiveness of claim 120 further may further comprise the steps:

The information of relevant described acknowledge message is added in the report.

122. the method according to the controlling object effectiveness of claim 120 further may further comprise the steps:

Generate payment with described acknowledge message.

123. a method of controlling larceny in the retail shop comprises:

The electronic installation that is provided for selling when in running order, is arranged to have commercial unavailable effectiveness with described electronic installation.

124. the method according to larceny in the control retail shop of claim 123 further may further comprise the steps: described electronic installation returned to commercial available effectiveness in the point of sale.

125. according to the method for larceny in the control retail shop of claim 123, it is one of following that wherein said electronic installation can be: computer; Game machine; Integrated circuit (IC) chip; Processor; Camera; TV; Phone; PDA (personal data/digital assistants); Calculator; Portable music, video or game player; Control electronics or instrument; Wrist-watch; Printer; Facsimile machine; Machinery; Instrument; And computer peripheral equipment.

126. a method of controlling larceny in the retail shop comprises:

The electronic installation that acceptance is sent when in running order, is arranged to have commercial unavailable effectiveness with described electronic installation.

127. the method according to larceny in the control retail shop of claim 126 further may further comprise the steps: behind the electronic installation of accepting to send, described electronic installation is returned to commercial available effectiveness.

128., wherein, before described electronic installation is put in storage, before described electronic installation is put on the shelf or at the point of sales terminal place that sells described electronic installation, carry out described recovering step according to the method for larceny in the control retail shop of claim 127.

129. method of controlling larceny in the retail shop:

Provide not readable CD to be used for selling.

130. according to the method for larceny in the control retail shop of claim 124, wherein, described not readable CD is DVD, CD or gameboard.

131. an anti-theft device comprises:

Object, at least one expected utility of described object is controlled; And

Sign, described sign is in the position that can read from the outside, and described sign is represented described controllable to liking.

132. an anti-theft device comprises:

The packing that comprises object, at least one expected utility of described object is controlled; And

Sign on the described packing, described sign are in the position that can read from the outside, and described sign is represented described controllable to liking.

133. the object with operating state and non operating state comprises:

The change implement device is configured to a kind of state in the various states;

Receiver is used to receive data;

Be connected to the logic of described change implement device, described logic utilizes described data optionally described change implement device to be switched to another kind of state from a kind of state;

Power supply, when described object was in non operating state, described power supply was to described receiver, described logic and the power supply of described change implement device;

Be connected to the effectiveness module of described change implement device, described effectiveness module is moved according to the state of described change implement device;

Wherein, described effectiveness module changes the effectiveness of described object when described object is in described operating state.

134. it is, wherein, described to liking electronic installation according to the object of claim 133.

135. the object according to claim 133 further comprises:

Be stored in the predefine secret cipher key code in the described object; And

Wherein, described logic uses described predefine secret cipher key code to come optionally described change implement device to be switched to another kind of state from a kind of state.

136. according to the object of claim 135, wherein, described predefine secret cipher key code is stored in the nonvolatile memory.

137. according to the object of claim 136, wherein, described nonvolatile memory can not be wiped, can not change, and maybe can not read from the outside.

138., further comprise the predefine secret cipher key code that is stored in the described object according to the object of claim 133; And

Wherein, described logic compares described predefine secret cipher key code and received data, thereby optionally switches described change implement device.

139., further comprise annex memory, be used to carry out described comparison, and wherein, described annex memory can not read from the outside according to the object of claim 138.

140. the object according to claim 133 further comprises: the predefined identifier that can be read by external reader.

141. according to the object of claim 140, wherein, described predefine identifier can be read by radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR) or electromagnetism reader.

142. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, described receiver is radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR) or electromagnetic receiver.

143. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, described change implement device is electronic switch, electric mechanical switch, relay or mains switch.

144. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, described change implement device is the logic state setting.

145. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, described change implement device is the value in the memory location.

146. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, described change implement device is the conditional breakpoint of setting in fuse or the trace on printed circuit board (PCB).

147. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, described power supply is different from the working power to described effectiveness module for power supply.

148. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, described power supply comprises battery.

149. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, described power supply comprises radio frequency (RF) converter apparatus or electromagnetic conversion apparatus.

150. according to the object of claim 149, wherein, described power supply comprises battery.

151. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, described power supply is single power supply.

152. it is, wherein, described to liking one of following electronic installation: computer according to the object of claim 133; Game machine; Integrated circuit (IC) chip; Processor; Camera; TV; Phone; PDA (personal data/digital assistants); Calculator; Portable music, video or game player; Control electronics or instrument; Wrist-watch; Printer; Facsimile machine; Machinery; Instrument; And computer peripheral equipment.

153. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, when described change implement device was in another kind of state, described logic used other data optionally described change implement device to be switched back described a kind of state.

154. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, when described change implement device was in another kind of state, described logic used other inputs optionally described change implement device to be switched back described a kind of state.

155. according to the object of claim 154, wherein, described other inputs receive from clock circuit.

156. according to the object of claim 154, wherein, described other inputs receive from counter circuit.

157. the object according to claim 133 further comprises:

Be arranged to the second change implement device of a kind of state in the various states;

Be connected to the second effectiveness module of the described second change implement device; And

Be connected to the described logic of the described second change implement device, and described logic uses data value optionally the described second change implement device to be switched to another state; And

Wherein, when described object was in described operating state, the described second effectiveness module changed second effectiveness of described object.

158. the object according to claim 133 further comprises:

Be connected to the second effectiveness module of described change implement device; And

Wherein, when described object was in described operating state, the described second effectiveness module changed second effectiveness of described object.

159. the object according to claim 133 further comprises:

Detect the module of the current state of described change implement device; And

Transmitter is used to send the signal of representing described current state.

160. the object according to claim 133 further comprises:

Detect the module that described change implement device state changes; And

Transmitter is used to send the signal of representing described current state.

161. the object according to claim 133 further comprises:

Detect the module of the current state of described effectiveness module; And

Transmitter is used to send the signal of representing described current state.

162. according to the object of claim 133, wherein, it is one of following that described effectiveness module can be: engine, power supply, executable code, memory, display, loud speaker, loudspeaker, printhead and lamp.

163. a readable media comprises:

Change implement device with first state and second state;

The content of being stored;

When described change implement device is in described first state, is arranged at described change implement device on the described medium and can intervenes described memory contents is conducted interviews;

Receive the receiver of data;

Be connected to the logic of described change implement device, described logic uses described data optionally described change implement device to be switched to other states from its current state;

Power supply is used for to described receiver, described logic and the power supply of described change implement device;

Wherein, when described change implement device was in described second state, described change implement device and nonintervention conducted interviews to described memory contents.

164., further comprise the predefine secret cipher key code that is stored in the described readable media according to the readable media of claim 163; And

Wherein, described logic uses described predefine key optionally described change implement device to be switched to described second state.

165. according to the readable media of claim 164, wherein, described predefine secret cipher key code is stored in the electronic memory.

166. according to the readable media of claim 165, wherein, described electronic memory can not read from the outside.

167. according to the readable media of claim 165, wherein, described memory be non-volatile, can not wipe or can not change.

168., further comprise the predefine secret cipher key code that is stored in the described readable media according to the readable media of claim 163; And

Wherein, described logic compares described predefine secret cipher key code and received data, thereby optionally described change implement device is switched to described second state.

169. according to the readable media of claim 168, further comprise the annex memory of carrying out described comparison, and wherein, described annex memory can't read from the outside.

170., further comprise the predefined identifier that can be read by external reader according to the readable media of claim 163.

171. according to the readable media of claim 163, wherein, described predefined identifier can be read by radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR) or electromagnetic radiation reader.

172. according to the readable media of claim 163, wherein, described receiver is radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR) or electromagnetic receiver.

173. according to the readable media of claim 163, wherein, described change implement device comprises electric convertible optical material.

174. according to the readable media of claim 173, wherein, the convertible optical material of described electricity is an electrochromic material.

175. according to the readable media of claim 163, wherein, described readable media is one of following: CD, Digital video disc (DVD), read-only optical disc (CD) and recreation cassette tape.

176. according to the readable media of claim 163, wherein, described power supply comprises battery.

177. according to the readable media of claim 163, wherein, described power supply comprises radio frequency (RF) converter apparatus, infrared (IR) converter apparatus or electromagnetic conversion apparatus.

178. according to the object of claim 177, wherein, described power supply comprises battery.

179. according to the readable media of claim 163, wherein, when described change implement device was in described second state, described logic used other data codes optionally described change implement device to be switched to described first state.

180. according to the readable media of claim 163, wherein, when described change implement device was in described second state, described logic used other inputs optionally described change implement device to be switched to described first state.

181., wherein, receive described other inputs from clock circuit according to the readable media of claim 180.

182., wherein, receive described other inputs from counter circuit according to the readable media of claim 180.

183. the readable media according to claim 163 further comprises:

The second change implement device with the first and second two states; And

Be connected to the logic of the described second change implement device, and described logic uses the data that receive optionally the described second change implement device to be switched to described second state.

184. the readable media according to claim 163 further comprises:

Detect the module of described change implement device current state; And

Send the transmitter of the signal of the described current state of expression.

185. the readable media according to claim 163 further comprises:

Detect the module that described change implement device state changes; And

Send the transmitter of the signal of the described current state of expression.

186. a method that is used to change object utility comprises:

Described object is set at non operating state;

Object place in described non operating state receives data value;

Definite data value that is received is represented to change described effectiveness;

In response to described determining step, the state of change implement device is set.

187. according to the method for claim 186, wherein, described receiving step comprises the described data value of wireless receiving.

188. according to the method for claim 186, wherein, described receiving step comprises that use radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR) or electromagnetic communication receive described data value.

189. according to the method for claim 186, wherein, described determining step comprises from described object acquisition secret cipher key code.

190. according to the method for claim 189, wherein, described determining step comprises the data of using described secret cipher key code and being received.

191. according to the method for claim 190, wherein, described determining step comprises more described secret cipher key code and the data that received.

192. according to the method for claim 186, wherein, described setting step comprises described object is provided as electronic installation.

193. according to the method for claim 186, wherein, described setting step comprises described object is provided as CD.

194. the method according to claim 186 further may further comprise the steps:

It is in running order that described object is set;

Detect the state of described change implement device; And

According to the state of described change implement device, described effectiveness is set.

195. according to the method for claim 194, wherein, the described step that is provided with comprises the described state that changes electronic switch, electric mechanical switch, relay or mains switch.

196. according to the method for claim 194, wherein, the described step that is provided with comprises the setting of change logic state.

197. according to the method for claim 194, wherein, the described step that is provided with comprises that change is in the value of memory location.

198. according to the method for claim 194, wherein, the described step that is provided with comprises in fusing fuse or the trace on printed circuit board (PCB) a conditional breakpoint is set.

199. the method according to claim 186 further comprises:

Send ident value, and correspondingly receive described data value at described object.

200. according to the method for claim 199, wherein, described forwarding step comprises that use radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR) or electromagnetic communication send described ident value.

According to the method for claim 199, wherein, described forwarding step comprises the transmission by the reflection bar font code, sends described ident value.

According to the method for claim 186, wherein, described determining step further comprises the secret cipher key code of more described data value and storage.

A kind of object with operating state and non operating state comprises:

Change implement device, be used for optionally being arranged to a kind of state of various states;

The power supply of wireless receiving electric energy, and described power supply is described change implement device power supply when described object is in described non operating state;

Be connected to the effectiveness module of described change implement device, described effectiveness module is moved according to the state of described change implement device;

Wherein, when described object was in described operating state, described effectiveness module changed the effectiveness of described object.

According to the object of claim 203, further comprise the module of determining whether described effectiveness has changed.

According to the object of claim 204, further comprise by electronics or the optical properties of measuring described object and determine the module whether described effectiveness has changed.

According to the object of claim 204, further comprise by the current state that detects described change implement device and determine the module whether described effectiveness has changed.

According to the object of claim 204, further comprise by the current configuration that detects described effectiveness module and determine the module whether described effectiveness has changed.

According to the object of claim 204, further comprise by measurement when the change implement device changes state and determine the module whether described effectiveness has changed.

According to the object of claim 204, further comprise in response to definite described effectiveness has changed the logic of action conditionally.

210. according to the object of claim 204, further comprise transmitter, be used to send the signal of determining that described effectiveness has changed.

211. the object according to claim 204 further comprises:, addressable memory is set then if described effectiveness changes.

80., further comprise receiver according to the object of claim 203, be used to receive data, the data that received are used for optionally being provided with described change implement device.

212. according to the object of claim 203, further comprise the logic that is connected to described change implement device, described logic optionally switches to another kind of state with described change implement device from a kind of state.

213., further comprise addressable identifier according to the object of claim 203.

214. according to the object of claim 203, further comprise addressable identifier, described addressable identifier is used for optionally being provided with described change implement device.

215. the object with operating state and non operating state comprises:

Be arranged to the change implement device of one of various states;

Receive the receiver of data;

Be connected to the logic of described change implement device, described logic uses described data to come optionally described change implement device to be switched to another kind of state from a kind of state;

Power supply is when described object is in described non operating state, to described receiver, described logic and the power supply of described change implement device;

Be connected to the effectiveness module of described change implement device, described effectiveness module responds changes the effectiveness of described object in the state of described change implement device;

Wherein, described effectiveness module changes the effectiveness of described object when described object is in described operating state.

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