Reception device, method for reception, and program

Abstract

To increase the convenience for a user when a content is switched.SOLUTION: A reception device includes: an activation unit for activating an application by data broadcasting during display of a broadcasting content for the application; a determination unit for determining whether processing of returning to the broadcasting content before the application is activated can be executed in a case where the application is ended; and a presentation unit for presenting means for returning to the broadcasting content in a case where the processing of returning to the broadcasting content has been determined to be inexecutable.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a receiving device, a receiving method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, OTT (Over the top) services have rapidly spread. OTT services are media services provided directly to users via the Internet. OTT services are provided via companies that previously functioned as content distributors for cable television, terrestrial broadcasting, satellite broadcasting, and other traditional content. OTT services include Video on Demand (VoD) services and catch-up streaming services. VoD services are a service that allows users to watch a variety of video content whenever they want. Catch-up streaming services are a service that delivers broadcast content such as television programs on demand over the Internet.

[0003] OTT services can be viewed using applications or web browsers on terminal devices such as PCs, smartphones, and receiving devices. In this situation, there is a study being conducted on the use of data broadcasting to guide users to OTT services such as catch-up streaming services during or after the distribution of broadcast content by terrestrial broadcasting.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a receiving device that inserts URL information of a website providing information related to television broadcast content, including at least advertisements or programs, and transmits the same at the same time, records information on the date and time and broadcasting station at the viewer's side when the broadcast is received as broadcast reception data, queries the data at a query center that captures the television broadcast content and acquires and stores URL information as data, obtains URL information that matches the data, and accesses and views the website based on the URL information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2022-38640 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, although data broadcasting allows users to launch an OTT service application (also called a registered general application or general application) or a web browser to navigate or switch from broadcast content to the OTT service, it is sometimes impossible to switch from the OTT service to the broadcast content. Also, users may not know how to switch from the OTT service to the broadcast content, resulting in insufficient user convenience. Thus, there is an issue of insufficient user convenience when switching content.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned points, and has an object to provide a receiving device, a receiving method, and a program that can improve the convenience for a user when switching between contents. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] (1) The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and one aspect of the present invention is a method and apparatus for providing a display device that displays a display image of a display that includes a display unit ... and a presentation unit that presents a means for returning to the previous broadcast content when it is determined that the process of returning to the previous broadcast content is not executable.

[0009] (2) Also, one aspect of the present invention is a receiving method having a startup process in which a computer of a receiving device launches an application via data broadcasting while displaying broadcast content corresponding to the application; a determination process in which, when the application is terminated, a process is determined whether or not a process of returning to the broadcast content before the application was launched is executable; and a presentation process in which, when it is determined that the process of returning to the previous broadcast content is not executable, a presentation process is performed to present a means for returning to the previous broadcast content.

[0010] (3) Another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer of a receiving device to execute the following steps: a launching step of launching an application via data broadcasting while broadcast content corresponding to the application is being displayed; a determination step of determining, when the application is terminated, whether or not a process of returning to the broadcast content prior to the launching of the application is executable; and a presentation step of presenting a means for returning to the previous broadcast content if it is determined that the process of returning to the previous broadcast content is not executable. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the convenience for the user in switching between contents. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a broadcasting system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of content switching according to the embodiment; [Diagram 3] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a receiving device according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a command related to starting an application according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a command for starting the extra browser according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a command related to version identification of an application according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a command related to confirmation of functions incorporated in the browser according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 11 is a diagram showing an example of a command for starting an application according to the present embodiment via data broadcasting. FIG. [Figure 9] 11 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of an API command for starting an application according to the present embodiment via data broadcasting. FIG. [Figure 10] 11 is a diagram showing an example of an API command for starting an application according to the present embodiment through data broadcasting. FIG. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content switching process according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a content switching process according to a modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a content switching process according to a modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a content switching command according to a modified example of the present embodiment. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a content switching process according to a modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] 11 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an extra browser according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content switching process according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0014] <First embodiment> [System Configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a broadcasting system Sys according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The broadcasting system Sys includes a broadcasting station 1, a receiving device 2, a broadcasting station server 3, a provider server 4, and an OTT server. The broadcasting is, for example, terrestrial digital broadcasting. However, the present invention is not limited to terrestrial digital broadcasting, and may be broadcasting using a broadcasting satellite. Broadcasting using a broadcasting satellite is, for example, advanced BS (Broadcasting Satellites) digital broadcasting or advanced wideband CS (Communication Satellites) digital broadcasting. Furthermore, the broadcasting may be wired broadcasting such as cable television.

[0015] In the broadcasting system Sys, a broadcasting station 1 transmits digital broadcasting signals, application control information, and the like by airwaves. The application control information is control information such as commands for informing a receiving device compatible with this system of applications that are linked to a program, such as an application for an OTT service, and for starting and stopping the application. The broadcast station 1 operates a broadcast station server 3 in the broadcast system Sys. The broadcast station server 3 provides metadata such as a program title, a program ID, a program summary, performers, and broadcast date and time. The information provided by the broadcast station 1 to the service provider is provided using an API (Application Programming Interface) provided by the broadcast station server 3.

[0016] A service provider is a party that provides services through the broadcasting system Sys, and operates the provider server 4 to produce and distribute the contents and applications required to provide the services, and to realize each individual service. Here, the services also include broadcasting and communication integration services that integrate broadcasting and communication. The provider server 4 transmits applications to the receiving device 2 for managing and distributing the applications. As a server for each service, the provider server 4 provides a server function for realizing each service (MPEG-H service, AC-4 service, VOD program recommendation service, multilingual subtitle service, etc.).

[0017] MPEG-H is a set of standards under development by the ISO / IEC Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) for digital container standards, video compression standards, audio compression standards, and two conformance test standards. MPEG-H audio, for example, allows for object-based audio. An "object" in object-based audio is each of the sound materials that make up a program, such as music or human voices. In object-based audio, an audio signal is recorded for each sound material, allowing audio control for each material. Also, when playing back on the receiving device 2, it is possible to play back the program according to the actual position of the speaker, based on the playback position information of the material.

[0018] AC-4 is an audio compression technology developed primarily for broadcasting and internet distribution. AC-4 audio also allows for object-based audio.

[0019] The provider server 4 not only realizes the functional aspects of these services, but also transmits the contents that make up the services (MPEG-H audio data, AC-4 audio data, VOD contents, subtitle data, etc.). The provider server 4 is registered as a "repository" for distributing applications of the broadcasting system Sys, and provides and searches for a list of available applications in response to an inquiry from the receiving device 2.

[0020] The OTT server 5 is operated by a service provider that provides OTT services, and has a function of managing content distributed on demand. The OTT server 5 has a function of distributing content that is accessed and requested using a dedicated application or web browser from a terminal or receiving device connected via a network.

[0021] The receiving device 2 includes a function for realizing a broadcasting and communication cooperation service in addition to a function for receiving existing digital broadcasting. The receiving device 2 has the following functions in addition to a broadband network connection function. - Function to receive applications in response to application control signals from broadcasting - Function to execute applications in response to application control signals from broadcasting - Function to present information by linking broadcasting and communications - Device linking function

[0022] Here, the terminal includes, for example, a user terminal such as a tablet terminal, a personal computer, a smartphone, a smart speaker, etc. The terminal link function of the receiving device 2 can access broadcast resources such as program information in response to a request from another terminal, and can call a receiving device function such as playback control.

[0023] More specifically, the receiving device 2 has the following functions. The receiving device 2 has a broadcast receiving and reproducing function of receiving broadcast waves. When a specific broadcast service is selected, the receiving device 2 has a function of synchronously reproducing the video, audio, subtitles, and data broadcast that constitute the service. The receiving device 2 has a communication content receiving and playing function that accesses video content stored in a server (e.g., an OTT server 5) on a communication network. The receiving device 2 has a function of receiving video content from the OTT server 5 as VOD streaming and synchronously playing back the video, audio, and subtitles that constitute the content.

[0024] The receiving device 2 has an application control function that acts on the application engine mainly for managed applications based on application control information acquired from a server on a communication network or a broadcast signal. The receiving device 2 has a function for controlling and managing the life cycle and events of each application. The receiving device 2 acquires an application as an application engine function. The receiving device 2 has a function to execute the application. This function is realized by, for example, an HTML5 browser.

[0025] The receiving device 2 has a presentation synchronization control function that controls the presentation synchronization of streams such as video and audio received via broadcasting and video and audio received via streaming. The receiving device 2 has, as an application launcher function, a navigation function that enables the user to select and launch a managed application other than broadcasting.

[0026] In the following description, when there is no particular distinction between the broadcast station 1, the broadcast station server 3, the provider server 4, and the OTT server 5, they will be described as the OTT server 5. In other words, the OTT server 5 described below has any one of the functions of the broadcast station 1, the broadcast station server 3, the provider server 4, and the OTT server 5 described above, or some or all of the functions.

[0027] [Content switching function] Next, the content switching function in this embodiment will be described. The receiving device 2 according to the present embodiment has a function of starting an application by data broadcasting while displaying broadcast content such as terrestrial digital broadcasting. In other words, the receiving device 2 has a function of starting an application to be a transition destination by data broadcasting (transitioning to an application) while displaying broadcast content such as terrestrial digital broadcasting that is a transition source. In addition, the receiving device 2 has a function of executing a process of switching to the display of the broadcast content before the application was started, i.e., the transition source broadcast content, when the started application is terminated.

[0028] Here, the process of switching to the display of the broadcast content before the application was started includes a process of executing a switch to the display of the broadcast content before the application was started, and a process of presenting a means of switching to the display of the broadcast content before the application was started. In other words, the process of switching to the display of the broadcast content before the application was started includes a process of returning to the broadcast content before the application was started (also called a process of instructing a transition from the application to the broadcast content that is the transition source) and a process of presenting a means for returning to the broadcast content before the application was started. Next, a content switching function such as application startup, application termination, and broadcast content display will be described.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of content switching according to the present embodiment. In the illustrated example, t represents time passing such as times t0, t1, and t2. The broadcast content refers to broadcast content such as terrestrial digital broadcasting, and is content that is continuously transmitted from the broadcast station 1. The display content is content that is displayed on the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the broadcast content of channel X (Xch) at time t0. The receiving device 2 receives an instruction to start an application at time t1 while displaying the broadcast content. The receiving device 2 starts the application of the OTT service based on the start instruction. The receiving device 2 displays the content of the OTT service based on the start of the application.

[0030] Based on the end of the content of the OTT service, the receiving device 2 terminates the application of the OTT service at time t2. Based on the end of the application of the OTT service, the receiving device 2 displays the broadcast content of channel X that was displayed up to time t1 before the application of the OTT service was started. Here, the broadcast content displayed at time t2 is the content that is being broadcast at time t2 on the same channel as the channel before time t1. In other words, when the started application is terminated, the receiving device 2 displays the broadcast content that is being broadcast on the same channel as the broadcast content before the application was started.

[0031] [Receiver configuration] Next, the configuration of the receiving device 2 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the receiving device 2 according to the present embodiment. The receiving device 2 includes a main system section 20, a receiving section 21, an input section 22, and an output section 25. The receiving unit 21 has a function of receiving broadcast waves, that is, a function as a tuner. The receiving unit 21 receives broadcast waves via an antenna. The receiving unit 21 tunes (selects) a channel selected based on a user operation. The tuned signal is demodulated and output to the main system unit 20 as data. The receiving unit 21 also has a function of receiving various information from other terminals via a network connected to the receiving device 2 through wired or wireless communication, that is, a function as a communication unit for communicating with other terminals. In this embodiment, the receiving unit 21 may include both a tuner and a communication unit.

[0032] The input unit 22 has a function of acquiring an operation signal based on a user's operation and outputting the acquired operation signal to the main system unit 20. The operation signal includes instruction signals such as execution and stop of a predetermined function, selection of a broadcast channel, selection and setting of various information, volume adjustment, color adjustment, etc.

[0033] The input unit 22 may include a member for receiving an operation. Such a member may include, for example, a dedicated member such as a button, a dial, or a knob, or may include a general-purpose member such as a touch sensor or a mouse. The touch sensor may be integrated with a display and function as a touch panel. The input unit 22 may include, for example, a sensor for wirelessly receiving an operation signal from a remote controller. The sensor may be, for example, an infrared sensor, or any other member capable of detecting electromagnetic waves carrying an operation signal.

[0034] The output unit 25 has a function of outputting (reproducing) sound based on an audio signal input from the main system unit 20. The output unit 25 also has a function of displaying on a display surface an image based on a video signal input from the main system unit 20. The output unit 25 includes, for example, a display element and a drive circuit for driving the display element. The display element may be any type of display, such as a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, or an organic electroluminescence display.

[0035] The main system unit 20 has a function of controlling the operation of the receiving device 2. The main system unit 20 separates a data signal from the broadcast signal input from the receiving unit 21. The main system unit 20 separates a control signal and a content signal from the separated data signal. The control signal is a signal that carries various control information used in the reception processing of the broadcast signal. The content signal is a signal that carries the content. The main system unit 20 decodes an audio signal and a video signal that indicate the audio that constitutes the content. The main system unit 20 outputs the decoded audio signal to the output unit 25. The main system unit 20 also outputs the decoded video signal to the output unit 25.

[0036] The main system section 20 also has a function of controlling the operation of the receiving device 2 based on an operation signal input from the input section 22 .

[0037] The main system unit 20 also decodes the audio signal and video signal forming the OTT content input from the receiving unit 21. The main system unit 20 outputs the decoded audio signal to the output unit 25. The main system unit 20 also outputs the decoded video signal to the output unit 25.

[0038] The main system unit 20 also has a function of executing an OTT application, and a function of executing a switching process between output of OTT content and output of broadcast content by executing the OTT application.

[0039] The main system section 20 will now be described in more detail. The main system unit 20 includes a broadcast wave processing unit 23, an OTT processing unit 24, and a switching processing unit . The broadcast wave processing unit 23 performs various processes on the broadcast signal input from the receiving unit 21. The broadcast wave processing unit 23 includes a demodulation unit 231, a separation unit 232, a video processing unit 233, an audio processing unit 234, and an output processing unit 235. The demodulation unit 231 performs demodulation processing on the broadcast signal.

[0040] The separator 232 separates the input data into a video data string, an audio data string, a superimposed text data string, a subtitle data string, etc. The separated audio data string is output to an audio processor 234. The separated video data string is output to a video processor 233. Moreover, the superimposed text data string and the subtitle data string separated by the separation unit 232 are decoded by a superimposed text decoder and a subtitle decoder (not shown), respectively, and the decoded character strings are superimposed on the video.

[0041] The video processor 233 decodes the input video data stream. The audio processor 234 decodes the audio data string of the audio component. The output processing unit 235 performs color space conversion processing on the decoded video data string, and causes the display of the output unit 25 to display the video and the speaker to output the audio.

[0042] The OTT processing unit 24 executes various processes on the communication signal input from the receiving unit 21. The OTT processing unit 24 includes a content processing unit 241 and a content output processing unit 242. The content processing unit 241 executes processes such as demodulation and decoding on communication signals such as content data, etc. The content processing unit 241 outputs the signals that have been subjected to various processes to the content output processing unit 242. The content output processing unit 242 executes various output processes on the signal input from the content processing unit 241. The content output processing unit 242 outputs the signal subjected to various output processes to the output unit 25. For example, the content output processing unit 242 performs color space conversion processing on the decoded video data string, displays the video on the display of the output unit 25, and outputs the sound from the speaker.

[0043] The switching processing unit 26 has a function of starting / ending the OTT application. After the OTT application is ended, the switching processing unit 26 executes a process of executing a switching process to display the content before the OTT application is started. After the OTT application is ended, the switching processing unit 26 causes the output unit 25 to output a switching means to display the broadcast content before the OTT application is started. After the OTT application is ended, the switching processing unit 26 judges whether or not it is possible to switch to the display of the broadcast content before the OTT application is started after the OTT application is ended. Based on the judgment result, the switching processing unit 26 decides whether to present a switching means or to execute switching to the display of the broadcast content. The switching processing unit 26 detects whether or not it corresponds to a parameter instructing switching to the broadcast content. Based on the fact that it does not correspond to the parameter instructing switching to the broadcast content, the switching processing unit 26 causes the switching means to the broadcast content to be presented by the data broadcast.

[0044] The switching processing unit 26 includes a determination unit 261 , a decision unit 262 , and a detection unit 263 . The determination unit 261 determines whether or not it is possible to switch to the display of the broadcast content before the OTT application was started, after the OTT application is terminated. Based on the result of the determination, the determination unit 262 determines whether to present a switching means or to switch to the display of the broadcast content. The detection unit 263 detects whether or not the parameter corresponds to a parameter instructing switching to broadcast content.

[0045] Next, the presentation of means for starting and ending an OTT application and switching to broadcast content will be described. The starting and ending of OTT applications and the presentation of switching means to broadcast content can be performed by executing commands written in XML-based Broadcast Markup Language (BML) via data broadcasting. The starting and ending of OTT applications and the presentation of switching means to broadcast content can also be performed by executing API commands.

[0046] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a command related to starting an application according to the present embodiment. Command CM1 is a BML command for starting an application of the receiving device. startResidentApp() is a command that can specify the URI of the application to be started and the URI of the component to be presented first when the started application is terminated and the BML browser is restarted. In the illustrated command, the application to be launched can be specified by the input String appName. Also, the URI of the component to be presented first when the launched application is terminated and the BML browser is restarted can be specified by the input String returnURI. If the URI of the component to be presented first is not specified, the returnURI will be a null character string.

[0047] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a command for starting the extra browser according to the present embodiment. Command CM2 is a BML command for starting an extra browser, which is a browser different from the data broadcasting browser, in the receiving device 2. startExtraBrowser() is a command that can specify the extra browser to be started and the URI of the component to be presented first when the started extra browser is closed and the BML browser is restarted. In the illustrated example, the extra browser to be launched can be specified by the input String browserName. Also, the URI of the component to be presented first when the launched application is closed and the BML browser is restarted can be specified by the input String returnURI. If the URI of the component to be presented first is not specified, the returnURI will be an empty string.

[0048] 4 and 5, the BML browser is a browser for displaying and executing BML commands that are pre-installed in the receiving device 2. In conventional receiving devices 2, the number of applications was small, so they could operate without any problem even without specifying the component to be presented first by the returnURI. However, recent receiving devices 2 have multiple applications, so if the URI of the component to be presented first is not specified by the returnURI, when the BML browser is restarted, it may not be possible to switch to the broadcast content before the application or extra browser was launched.

[0049] Therefore, in this embodiment, a command for identifying the version of the application and a command for checking the functions built into the browser, shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, are used. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a command related to identifying the version of an application according to the present embodiment.

[0050] Command CM3 is a command for identifying the version of an application. Command Array getResidentAppVersion(input String appName) returns an array of application information such as Array[0], Array[1], Array[2], Array[3], and Array[4] if successful for argument appName. Command Array getResidentAppVersion(input String appName) returns null if unsuccessful for argument appName. Array[0] is a string representing the manufacturer identification or extended manufacturer identification, and Array[1] is a string representing the application name of the receiving device. Array[2] is a string representing the major version number, and Array[3] is a string representing the minor version number. Array[4] is detailed information defined for each application of the receiving device.

[0051] For example, in the illustrated example, when ExampleApplication is specified as the argument appName in command CM3, getResidentAppVersion(ExampleApplication) stores in the return value Array[4] a character string indicating whether or not the application supports a function for switching to the broadcast content before the application was started. For example, if a value exists in Array[4], the application ExampleApplication is started using command CM1 shown in FIG. 4 or command CM2 shown in FIG. 5.

[0052] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a command related to checking the functions installed in the browser according to the present embodiment. Command CM4 is a command for checking the functions built into the browser. Command getBrowserSupport() obtains a return value of 1 or 0 for arguments sProvider, functionname, and additionalinfo. sProvider is a string that specifies the business entity that defined the function. Functionname is a string that specifies the function name. additionalinfo is a string that specifies additional information about the function. A return value of 1 indicates that the specified function is present. A return value of 0 indicates that the specified function is not present.

[0053] For example, in the illustrated example, arguments functionname: ResidentApp, additionalinfo: ExampleApplication are specified in command CM4. If ExampleApplication has the function of ResidentApp, a return value of 1 is obtained. If the return value is 1, ExampleApplication supports the function of ResidentApp, and the application ExampleApplication is started using command CM1 shown in FIG. 4 or command CM2 shown in FIG. 5.

[0054] Next, another example of a command for starting an application via data broadcasting will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of an API command for starting an application according to this embodiment through data broadcasting. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an API command for starting an application according to this embodiment by data broadcasting. The command exitFromManagedState() is a command that obtains a void type return value using an argument url that indicates the entry URL of the general application to which the transition is to be made. In this embodiment, when the API command is executed by data broadcasting, the application indicated by the argument url is started. Note that, although this API command makes it possible to start an application by data broadcasting, when the started application is terminated, it is not possible to specify the content before the application was started as the return destination.

[0055] Next, the content switching process according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the content switching process according to the present embodiment. In step S100, the receiving device 2 starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content in response to a channel selection operation and a power supply operation by a user, and starts a BML browser. The receiving device 2 also causes the output unit 25 to output the selected broadcast content.

[0056] In step S102, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports the OTT service by executing a BML command via data broadcasting, that is, whether the receiving device 2 supports a catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app). Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery app by executing the commands shown in Figs. 6 and 7 via data broadcasting. If it is determined that the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery app, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S104. On the other hand, if it is determined that the receiving device 2 does not support the catch-up delivery app, the receiving device 2 ends the content switching process shown in Fig. 11.

[0057] In step S104, the receiving device 2 determines whether or not it is possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated. Specifically, the receiving device 2 determines whether or not it is possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated, depending on whether or not the receiving device 2 supports a returnURI that specifies the URI of the component that is first presented after the started application is terminated. If it is determined that it is not possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S106. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S116.

[0058] In step S106, when the catch-up delivery application is terminated, the receiving device 2 causes the output unit 25 to output a means for switching to the display of the broadcast content before the catch-up delivery application was launched, and presents it to the user. The presentation of the means for switching to the broadcast content before the catch-up delivery application was launched is presented to the user at a timing before the catch-up delivery application is launched. The presentation of the means for switching to the previous broadcast content is, for example, notification information stored in advance in the storage unit of the receiving device 2. The notification information is a notification unique to the receiving device. The notification information includes an operation procedure of the receiving device 2 for returning to the broadcast content.

[0059] In step S108, the broadcast station 1 executes a command via data broadcast to start up a catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 executes the commands shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, and Fig. 10 via data broadcast to start up the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up delivery application.

[0060] In step S110, the broadcast station 1 ends the catch-up delivery application based on the completion of the reproduction of the OTT content.

[0061] In step S112, the receiving device 2 accepts a user operation.

[0062] In step S114, when the receiving device 2 receives a user operation such as a switching means to the broadcast content presented to the user in step S106, the receiving device 2 switches from the OTT content to the broadcast content and outputs the broadcast content to the output unit 25. In addition, the receiving device 2 starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content and starts a BML browser. Then, the content switching process in FIG. 11 is terminated.

[0063] In step S116, the broadcast station 1 executes a command via data broadcast to start up a catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 executes the commands shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, and Fig. 10 via data broadcast to start up the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up delivery application.

[0064] In step S118, the broadcast station 1 terminates the catch-up delivery application based on the completion of the playback of the OTT content. Furthermore, the receiving device 2 causes the output unit 25 to output the URI of the component to be presented first after the catch-up delivery application corresponding to the returnURI is terminated based on the execution of the command by the data broadcast. For example, the receiving device 2 displays the broadcast content based on the specification of switching to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application was started as the URI of the component to be presented first after the catch-up delivery application is terminated. Then, the content switching process in FIG. 11 is terminated.

[0065] Note that the presentation of the means for switching to the broadcast content may be performed by launching the catch-up delivery application and then displaying a guide within the launched catch-up delivery application.

[0066] As described above, the receiving device 2 according to this embodiment includes a launching unit (OTT processing unit 24) that launches an application via data broadcasting while broadcast content is being displayed, and a switching processing unit 26 that, when the launched application is terminated, executes a switching process to switch to the display of the broadcast content before the application was launched.

[0067] This allows the receiving device 2 to switch to the broadcast content that was displayed before the application was executed when the application was terminated, improving user convenience. Even if the receiving device does not support switching due to the end of content, it is possible to present the user with a means for switching to the broadcast content, improving user convenience.

[0068] In addition, if it is determined that it is not possible to switch to the broadcast content that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched after the catch-up delivery app is terminated, i.e., if it is determined that the return URI is not supported, the receiving device 2 may switch to the broadcast content that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched based on the network and service ID.

[0069] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a content switching process according to a modification of the present embodiment. In step S200, the receiving device 2 starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content in response to a channel selection operation and a power supply operation by a user, and starts a BML browser. The receiving device 2 also causes the output unit 25 to output the selected broadcast content.

[0070] In step S202, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports the OTT service by executing a BML command via data broadcasting, that is, whether the receiving device 2 supports a catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app). Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery app by executing the commands shown in Figs. 6 and 7 via data broadcasting. If it is determined that the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery app, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S204. On the other hand, if it is determined that the receiving device 2 does not support the catch-up delivery app, the receiving device 2 ends the content switching process shown in Fig. 12.

[0071] In step S204, the receiving device 2 determines whether or not it is possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated. Specifically, the receiving device 2 determines whether or not it is possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated, depending on whether or not the receiving device itself supports a returnURI that specifies the URI of the component that is first presented after the started application is terminated. If it is determined that it is not possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S206. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S216.

[0072] In step S206, the receiving device 2 acquires the currently connected network ID and service ID.

[0073] In step S208, the broadcast station 1 executes a command via data broadcast to start up a catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 executes the commands shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, and Fig. 10 via data broadcast to start up the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up delivery application.

[0074] In step S210, the broadcast station 1 ends the catch-up delivery application based on the completion of the reproduction of the OTT content.

[0075] In step S212, the receiving device 2 selects the broadcast content specified by the network ID and service ID acquired in step S206 by executing an application.

[0076] In step S214, the receiving device 2 switches from the OTT content to the broadcast content, and outputs the broadcast content to the output unit 25. The receiving device 2 also starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content, and starts a BML browser. Then, the content switching process in FIG. 12 ends.

[0077] In step S216, the broadcast station 1 executes a command via data broadcast to start up a catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 executes the commands shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, and Fig. 10 via data broadcast to start up the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up delivery application.

[0078] In step S218, the broadcast station 1 terminates the catch-up delivery application based on the completion of the playback of the OTT content. Furthermore, the receiving device 2 causes the output unit 25 to output the URI of the component to be presented first after the catch-up delivery application corresponding to the returnURI is terminated based on the execution of the command by the data broadcast. For example, the receiving device 2 displays the broadcast content based on the specification of switching to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application was started as the URI of the component to be presented first after the catch-up delivery application is terminated. Then, the content switching process related to FIG. 12 is terminated.

[0079] According to this modified example, even in a receiving device in which broadcast content cannot be specified by return URI, it is possible to switch to the broadcast content before the application was executed when the application is terminated based on the network ID and service ID, thereby improving user convenience.

[0080] Note that the determination of whether or not it is possible to switch to the broadcast content that was displayed before the catch-up delivery application was started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated may be performed by executing a BML command.

[0081] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a content switching process according to a modification of the present embodiment. In step S300, the receiving device 2 starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content in response to a channel selection operation and a power supply operation by a user, and starts a BML browser. The receiving device 2 also causes the output unit 25 to output the selected broadcast content.

[0082] In step S302, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports the OTT service by executing a BML command via data broadcasting, that is, whether the receiving device 2 supports a catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app). Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery app by executing the commands shown in Figs. 6 and 7 via data broadcasting. If it is determined that the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery app, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S304. On the other hand, if it is determined that the receiving device 2 does not support the catch-up delivery app, the receiving device 2 ends the content switching process shown in Fig. 13.

[0083] In step S304, the receiving device 2 determines whether or not it is possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether or not the receiving device supports returnURI, which specifies the URI of the component to be presented first after the started application is terminated by executing a BML command. If it is determined that it is not possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S306. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S316.

[0084] Here, the BML command getResidentAppRUSupport() used to determine whether or not returnURI is supported will be described. The command used for the determination in step S304 is number getResidentAppRUSupport(input String appName). appName is a name indicating the application of the receiving device, and is an argument to the command. Executing the command number getResidentAppRUSupport(input String appName) returns a return value of 1 or 0. A return value of 1 indicates that returnURI is supported. A return value of 0 indicates that returnURI is not supported.

[0085] Returning to FIG. 13, in step S306, the broadcast station 1 executes a BML command to cause the receiving device 2 to display a means for switching to broadcast content. The BML command is array getResidentAppRUSupport2(input String appName). appName is a name indicating an application of the receiving device, and is an argument of the command. Execution of the command array getResidentAppRUSupport2(input String appName) obtains return values ​​array[0] and array[1]. The return value array[0] indicates 1 or 0. 1 indicates that returnURI is supported. 0 indicates that returnURI is not supported. The return value array[1] indicates a String, and represents notification information indicating a means for switching to broadcast content for a receiving device that does not support returnURI.

[0086] In step S308, the broadcast station 1 executes a command via data broadcasting to start up a catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 executes the commands shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, and Fig. 10 via data broadcasting to start up the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up delivery application.

[0087] In step S310, the broadcast station 1 ends the catch-up delivery application based on the completion of the reproduction of the OTT content.

[0088] In step S312, the receiving device 2 accepts a user operation.

[0089] In step S314, when the receiving device 2 receives a user operation such as a switching means to the broadcast content presented to the user in step S306, the receiving device 2 switches from the OTT content to the broadcast content and outputs the broadcast content to the output unit 25. In addition, the receiving device 2 starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content and starts a BML browser. Then, the content switching process in FIG. 13 ends.

[0090] In step S314, the receiving device 2 switches from the OTT content to the broadcast content, and outputs the broadcast content to the output unit 25. The receiving device 2 also starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content, and starts a BML browser. Then, the content switching process in FIG. 13 ends.

[0091] In step S316, the broadcast station 1 executes a command via data broadcast to start up a catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 executes the commands shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, and Fig. 10 via data broadcast to start up the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up delivery application.

[0092] In step S318, the broadcast station 1 ends the catch-up delivery application based on the completion of the playback of the OTT content, and then executes the process of step S314.

[0093] In this way, according to this modification, it is possible to determine whether or not switching from the catch-up delivery application to broadcast content is supported, and to present a switching procedure when switching to broadcast content is not supported, by using a BML command, thereby improving user convenience. In addition, it is possible to switch broadcast content or present a switching method regardless of the performance of the receiving device, thereby improving user convenience.

[0094] Instead of executing a BML command, a process of switching to the broadcast content before switching of the application may be executed by hybrid casting after the application is terminated.

[0095] Here, commands according to this modified example will be described. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a command related to content switching according to the modified example of this embodiment. The command hasCapability(query, [param1,.,paramN]) is a command for checking whether it is possible to return to broadcast content and whether it supports external launch of applications. The arguments are query, param1, ..., paramN. The return type is Bloolean. The argument types are String, String (takes a variable number of arguments). If unknown specifications are made in query and param, false is returned. The parameter query is extraApp, param1 is the name of the application, and param2 is 1 or 0, where 1 indicates that it is possible to return to broadcast content and 0 indicates that it is impossible or unknown to return to broadcast content. The return value is either true or false, where true indicates that the application can be launched externally and false indicates that the application cannot be launched externally.

[0096] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a content switching process according to a modification of the present embodiment. In step S400, the receiving device 2 starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content in response to a channel selection operation and a power operation by a user operation, and starts a hybrid cast (HC). The receiving device 2 also causes the output unit 25 to output the selected broadcast content.

[0097] In step S402, the broadcasting station 1 executes a command by hybridcast to determine whether the receiving device 2 supports the OTT service, that is, whether it supports the catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app). Specifically, the broadcasting station 1 executes a command shown in FIG. 14 by hybridcast to determine whether it supports the catch-up delivery app. If it is determined that the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery app, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S404. On the other hand, if it is determined that the receiving device 2 does not support the catch-up delivery app, the receiving device 2 ends the content switching process shown in FIG. 15.

[0098] In step S404, the receiving device 2 determines whether or not it is possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether or not it is possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated by executing the command shown in Fig. 14. If it is determined that switching to the broadcast content is not possible, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S406. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is possible to switch to the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started after the catch-up delivery application is terminated, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S416.

[0099] In step S406, the broadcast station 1 executes the command shown in FIG. 14 to cause the receiving device 2 to display a means for switching to the broadcast content.

[0100] In step S408, the broadcast station 1 executes a command via data broadcast to start up a catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 executes the command shown in Fig. 14 to start up the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up delivery application.

[0101] In step S410, the broadcast station 1 ends the catch-up delivery application based on the completion of the reproduction of the OTT content.

[0102] In step S412, the receiving device 2 accepts a user operation.

[0103] In step S414, when the receiving device 2 receives a user operation such as a switching means to the broadcast content presented to the user in step S406, the receiving device 2 switches from the OTT content to the broadcast content and outputs the broadcast content to the output unit 25. In addition, the receiving device 2 starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content and starts the HC. Then, the content switching process in FIG. 15 is terminated.

[0104] In step S414, the receiving device 2 switches from the OTT content to the broadcast content, and outputs the broadcast content to the output unit 25. The receiving device 2 also starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content, and starts the HC. Then, the content switching process in FIG. 15 ends.

[0105] In step S416, the broadcast station 1 executes the command to start the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 executes the command shown in Fig. 14 by data broadcasting to start the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up delivery application.

[0106] In step S418, the broadcast station 1 ends the catch-up delivery application based on the completion of the playback of the OTT content, and then executes the process of step S414.

[0107] In this way, according to this modified example, it is possible to determine whether or not switching from a catch-up distribution app to broadcast content is supported, and to present switching procedures if switching to broadcast content is not supported, by using commands in hybrid cast, thereby improving user convenience.

[0108] <Second embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment, the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0109] [Receiver configuration] Next, the configuration of the receiving device 2 according to the second embodiment will be described. The receiving device 2 according to the second embodiment includes a main system unit 20, a receiving unit 21, an input unit 22, an output unit 25, and a switching processing unit .

[0110] The switching processing unit 26 has functions of executing the processes of starting, ending, and returning to the broadcast content of the OTT application, and the process of switching to the display of the broadcast content of the transition source, and the process of presenting a means for returning to the broadcast content (the process of presenting a means for switching to the display of the broadcast content of the transition source). After the OTT application is ended, the switching processing unit 26 executes a process of returning to the content of the transition source before the OTT application was started. After the OTT application is ended, the switching processing unit 26 causes the output unit 25 to output a means for returning to the broadcast content of the transition source before the OTT application was started.

[0111] The switching processing unit 26 judges whether or not it is possible to return to the broadcast content that was the transition source before the OTT application was started after the OTT application is terminated. Based on the judgment result, the switching processing unit 26 decides whether to present a means for returning or to execute a process for returning to the broadcast content. The switching processing unit 26 detects whether or not the parameter for returning to the broadcast content is supported. Based on the fact that the parameter for returning to the broadcast content is not supported, the switching processing unit 26 causes the means for returning to the broadcast content to be presented by the data broadcast.

[0112] The switching processing unit 26 includes a determination unit 261 , a decision unit 262 , and a detection unit 263 . The determination unit 261 determines whether or not it is possible to return to the broadcast content that was the transition source before the OTT application was started, after the OTT application is terminated. The decision unit 262 decides, based on the determination result, whether to execute a process for presenting a means for returning to the original state or to execute a process for returning to the original state. The detector 263 detects whether or not the parameter corresponds to a return parameter to the broadcast content.

[0113] Next, the start-up and end of the OTT application, the process of returning to the broadcast content, and the presentation of the means for returning to the broadcast content will be described. Starting and ending OTT applications, returning to broadcast content, and presenting means for returning to broadcast content can be performed by sending commands written in BML to the receiving device 2 via data broadcasting, and having the commands executed by the receiving device 2. In addition, the starting and ending of the OTT application, the process of returning to the broadcast content, and the process of presenting a means for returning to the broadcast content may be performed by causing the receiving device 2 to execute an API command.

[0114] First, a command related to starting an application according to this embodiment will be described with reference to CM1 shown in FIG. Command CM1 is a BML command for starting an application of the receiving device 2. startResidentApp() is a command capable of specifying the application to be started and the URI of the component to be presented first when the started application is terminated and the BML browser is restarted. In the command shown in the figure, the application to be launched can be specified by the input String appName. Also, the URI of the component to be presented first when the launched application is terminated and the BML browser is restarted can be specified by the input String returnURI. If the URI of the component to be presented first is not specified, the returnURI will be a null string.

[0115] Next, a command related to starting the extra browser according to this embodiment will be described with reference to a command CM2 shown in FIG. Command CM2 is a BML command for starting an extra browser, which is a browser different from the data broadcasting browser, in the receiving device 2. startExtraBrowser() is a command that can specify the extra browser to be started and the URI of the component to be presented first when the started extra browser is closed and the BML browser is restarted.

[0116] In the illustrated example, the extra browser to be launched can be specified by the input String browserName, and the URI of the component to be presented first when the launched application is terminated and the BML browser is restarted can be specified by the input String returnURI. If the URI of the component to be presented first is not specified, the returnURI will be a null string.

[0117] The BML browser is a browser for displaying and executing BML commands that the receiving device 2 has in advance. In conventional receiving devices 2, the number of applications was small, so they could operate without any problem even without specifying the component to be presented first by the returnURI. However, recent receiving devices 2 have multiple applications. Therefore, if the URI of the component to be presented first is not specified by the returnURI, when the BML browser is restarted, it may not be possible to switch to the broadcast content before the application or extra browser was launched.

[0118] Therefore, in this embodiment, a command for identifying the version of the application and a command for checking the functions built into the browser are used. The commands will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0119] Command CM3 is a command for identifying the version of an application. Command Array getResidentAppVersion(input String appName) returns an array of application information such as Array[0], Array[1], Array[2], Array[3], and Array[4] if successful for argument appName. Command Array getResidentAppVersion(input String appName) returns null if unsuccessful for argument appName. Array[0] is a string representing the manufacturer identification or extended manufacturer identification, and Array[1] is a string representing the application name of the receiving device. Array[2] is a string representing the major version number, and Array[3] is a string representing the minor version number. Array[4] is detailed information defined for each application of the receiving device.

[0120] For example, in the illustrated example, when ExampleApplication is specified as the argument appName in command CM3, getResidentAppVersion(ExampleApplication) stores in the return value Array[4] a character string indicating whether or not the application supports a function for switching to the broadcast content before the application was started. For example, if a value exists in Array[4], the application ExampleApplication is started using command CM1 shown in FIG. 4 or command CM2 shown in FIG. 5.

[0121] Next, an example of a command related to checking the functions incorporated in the browser according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Command CM4 is a command for checking the functions built into the browser. Command getBrowserSupport() obtains a return value of 1 or 0 for arguments sProvider, functionname, and additionalinfo. sProvider is a character string that specifies the business entity that defined the function. Functionname is a character string that specifies the function name. additionalinfo is a character string that specifies additional information about the function. A return value of 1 indicates that the specified function is present. A return value of 0 indicates that the specified function is not present.

[0122] For example, in the illustrated example, arguments functionname: ResidentApp, additionalinfo: ExampleApplication are specified in command CM4. If ExampleApplication has the function of ResidentApp, a return value of 1 is obtained. If the return value is 1, ExampleApplication supports the function of ResidentApp, and the application ExampleApplication is started using command CM1 shown in FIG. 4 or command CM2 shown in FIG. 5.

[0123] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a command for starting an application according to this embodiment through data broadcasting. Command CM5 is an API command that starts a browser application via data broadcasting. Command getBrowserSupport() returns a return value of 1 or 0 for arguments uriname, MIME_type, and Ex_info. A return value of 1 indicates that the specified function is available. A return value of 0 indicates that the specified function is not available.

[0124] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the command CM4 shown in FIG. 7 is used to further check whether or not the application has parameters related to startup and a function for returning to the original state after the application is terminated.

[0125] Command CM4 is a command for checking the functions built into the browser. Command getBrowserSupport() obtains a return value of 1 or 0 for arguments functionname and additionalinfo. Argument functionname is a character string specifying the function name. Argument additionalinfo is a character string specifying additional information about the function. Return value 1 indicates that the specified function is present. Return value 0 indicates that the specified function is not present.

[0126] For example, in the illustrated example, the arguments functionname: SmarttvFunction, additionalinfo: Ctrl.ExtApp are specified in the command CM4. If the receiving device has the function of SmarttvFunction, a return value of 1 is obtained. If the return value is 1, the function of SmarttvFunction is supported, and the application is launched using the command CM5 shown in FIG.

[0127] In addition, for example, in the illustrated example, the arguments functionname: SmarttvFunction, additionalinfo: returnToBroadcast are specified in the command CM4. If the receiving device has a function to return to the original state after the application started by the command CM5 is terminated, the return value 1 is obtained.

[0128] That is, the command CM4 using the arguments functionname: SmarttvFunction, additionalinfo: Ctrl.ExtApp is a command for checking whether the application to be started is an application of the OTT service corresponding to the start. Also, the command CM4 using the arguments functionname: SmarttvFunction, additionalinfo: returnToBroadcast is a command for checking whether the application has a function of returning to the broadcast content of the transition source after the application is terminated.

[0129] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, using the command CM4 shown in FIG. 7, it is further confirmed whether or not the command CM1 related to starting an application is supported, and whether or not the command CM1 has a function of returning to the original state after the application is terminated.

[0130] For example, in the illustrated example, the arguments functionname: ResidentApp, additionalinfo: SmarttvAppLauncher are specified in the command CM4. If the receiving device has the function of residentApp, a return value of 1 is obtained. If the return value is 1, the application is launched using the command CM1 shown in FIG.

[0131] In the illustrated example, the arguments functionname:ResidentApp and additionalinfo:returnToBroadcast are specified in command CM4. If the receiving device has a function to return to the original state after the application started by command CM1 is terminated, a return value of 1 is obtained.

[0132] That is, the command CM4 using the arguments functionname:ResidentApp, additionalinfo:, and SmarttvAppLauncher is a command for checking whether the application to be launched is an application of an OTT service corresponding to launch by the command CM1 shown in Fig. 4. Also, the command CM4 using the arguments functionname:ResidentApp, additionalinfo:returnToBroadcast is a command for checking whether the application launched by ResidentApp has a function of returning to the broadcast content of the transition source after the application is terminated.

[0133] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting the extra browser according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, using the command CM4 shown in FIG. 7, it is further confirmed whether or not the command CM2 related to starting the extra browser is supported, and whether or not the command CM2 has a function to return to the original state after the extra browser is closed.

[0134] For example, in the illustrated example, arguments functionname: ResidentApp, additionalinfo: SmarttvAppBrowser1 are specified in command CM4. If the receiving device has the function of residentApp, a return value of 1 is obtained. If the return value is 1, SmarttvAppBrowser1 supports the function of ResidentApp, and the application SmarttvAppBrowser1 is launched using command CM2 shown in FIG.

[0135] Also, for example, in the illustrated example, arguments functionname: ResidentApp, additionalinfo: SmarttvAppBrowser2 are specified in command CM4. If the receiving device has the function of residentApp, a return value of 1 is obtained. If the return value is 1, SmarttvAppBrowser2 supports the function of ResidentApp, and the application SmarttvAppBrowser2 is launched using the command CM2 shown in FIG.

[0136] Here, the arguments SmarttvAppBrowse1 and SmarttvAppBrowser2 differ depending on whether the argument corresponds to the launch of a registered general application using an application launch function with the fourth argument specified in URL format, or the argument corresponds to the launch of a registered general application using an application launch function with the fourth argument specified in AppID format.

[0137] In the illustrated example, the arguments functionname: ResidentApp, additionalinfo: returnToBroadcastFromB are specified in command CM4. If the receiving device has a function to return to the original state after the application started by command CM2 is terminated, a return value of 1 is obtained.

[0138] That is, command CM4 using arguments functionname: ResidentApp, additionalinfo: smarttvAppBrowser1 is a command for checking whether the extra browser to be launched is an extra browser corresponding to the launch by command CM2 shown in Fig. 5. Also, command CM4 using arguments functionname: ResidentApp, additionalinfo: smarttvAppBrowser2 is a command for checking whether the extra browser to be launched is an extra browser corresponding to the launch by command CM2 shown in Fig. 5. Also, command CM4 using arguments functionname: ResidentApp, additionalinfo: returnToBroadcastFromB is a command for checking whether the extra browser to be launched has a function for returning to the broadcast content of the transition source after the launched extra browser is terminated.

[0139] Next, the content switching process according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a content switching process according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In step S500, the receiving device 2 starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content in response to a channel selection operation and a power operation by a user operation, and starts a BML browser. The receiving device 2 also causes the output unit 25 to output the selected broadcast content. Next, the process proceeds to step S502.

[0140] In step S502, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports the OTT service by executing a BML command via data broadcasting, that is, whether the receiving device 2 supports a catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app). Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery app by having the receiving device 2 execute a command CM4 via data broadcasting. If it is determined that the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery app (YES in step S502), the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S504. On the other hand, if it is determined that the receiving device 2 does not support the catch-up delivery app (NO in step S502), the broadcast station 1 ends the content switching process shown in FIG. 19.

[0141] In step S504, the broadcast station 1 judges whether or not the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started can be switched to after the catch-up delivery application is terminated, that is, whether or not the broadcast station 1 has a function of returning to the broadcast content that is the transition source before the catch-up delivery application is started. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 judges whether or not the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery application is started can be switched to after the started application is terminated, that is, whether or not the broadcast station 1 has a function of returning to the transition source after the application is terminated, by making the receiving device 2 execute the command CM4. If it is judged that the receiving device 2 does not have a function of returning to the transition source broadcast content after the catch-up delivery application is terminated (step S504 NO), the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S506. On the other hand, if it is judged that the receiving device 2 has a function of returning to the transition source broadcast content after the catch-up delivery application is terminated (step S504 YES), the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S516.

[0142] In step S506, the broadcast station 1 causes the output unit 25 to output a switching means to the display of the broadcast content before the catch-up delivery application is started when the catch-up delivery application is ended, that is, a means for returning to the broadcast content of the transition source after the catch-up delivery application is ended, and presents it to the user. The presentation of the means for returning to the broadcast content of the transition source after the catch-up delivery application is presented to the user at a timing before the catch-up delivery application is started, that is, before transition to the catch-up delivery application. The presentation of the means for returning to the broadcast content of the transition source is, for example, by having the receiving device 2 execute a BML command by data broadcasting, thereby displaying a message for returning to the broadcast content of the transition source on the receiving device 2. The message includes an operating procedure of the receiving device 2 for returning to the broadcast content. After that, the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S508.

[0143] In step S508, the broadcast station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute the command by the data broadcast, and starts the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute each of the commands CM1, CM2, CM3, and CM4 by the data broadcast, and starts the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. The broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S510.

[0144] In step S510, the broadcast station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to end the catch-up distribution application based on the completion of the reproduction (distribution) of the OTT content. The broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S512.

[0145] In step S512, the broadcast station 1 accepts a user operation according to the means for returning to the transition source presented in step S506. The broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S514.

[0146] In step S514, the broadcast station 1 returns from the OTT content to the transition source in response to a user operation, and outputs the broadcast content to the output unit 25. In addition, the receiving device 2 starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected content, and starts a BML browser. Then, the content switching process in FIG. 19 is terminated.

[0147] In step S516, the broadcast station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute the command by the data broadcast, thereby activating the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute each of the commands CM1, CM2, CM3, and CM4 by the data broadcast, thereby activating the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. The broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S518.

[0148] In step S518, the broadcast station 1 terminates the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2 based on the completion of the reproduction (delivery) of the OTT content. In addition, the broadcast station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute a command by data broadcasting, thereby executing a process of returning to the transition source that was displayed before the catch-up delivery application was started, and causes the receiving device 2 to display the broadcast content that is the transition source. Then, the content switching process in FIG. 19 is terminated.

[0149] Note that the means for returning to the broadcast content may be presented by launching the catch-up delivery application and then displaying a guide within the launched catch-up delivery application.

[0150] As described above, the receiving device 2 of this embodiment includes a launch unit (OTT processing unit 24) that launches an application via data broadcasting while broadcast content corresponding to the application is being displayed, a judgment unit 261 that, when the application is terminated, judges whether or not it is possible to execute a process of returning to the broadcast content before the application was launched, and a presentation unit (output unit 25) that presents a means for returning to the previous broadcast content when it is determined that it is not possible to execute a process of returning to the previous broadcast content.

[0151] This allows the receiving device 2 to check, when an application is terminated, whether or not it is possible to execute a process to return to the broadcast content that was displayed before the application was executed, thereby improving user convenience.

[0152] In addition, a part of the broadcast station 1, the receiving device 2, the broadcast station server 3, the provider server 4, and the OTT server 5 in the above-mentioned embodiment, for example, at least a part of the separation unit 232, the video processing unit 233, the audio processing unit 234, the output processing unit 235, the judgment unit 261, the decision unit 262, the detection unit 263, the content processing unit 241, and the content output processing unit 242 of the receiving device 2 may be realized by a computer. In that case, a program for realizing this control function may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded in the recording medium may be read into and executed by a computer system. In addition, the "computer system" referred to here is a computer system built into the broadcast station 1, the receiving device 2, the broadcast station server 3, the provider server 4, and the OTT server 5, and includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices.

[0153] In addition, the term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. Furthermore, the term "computer-readable recording medium" may also include devices that dynamically hold a program for a short period of time, such as a communication line when transmitting a program via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, and devices that hold a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory inside a computer system that serves as a server or client in such cases. Furthermore, the above-mentioned program may be one that realizes part of the above-mentioned functions, or may be one that can realize the above-mentioned functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

[0154] In addition, the broadcast station 1, the receiving device 2, the broadcast station server 3, the provider server 4, and the OTT server 5 in the above-mentioned embodiment may be partly or entirely realized as an integrated circuit such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration). Each functional block of the broadcast station 1, the receiving device 2, the broadcast station server 3, the provider server 4, and the OTT server 5 may be individually processed, or partly or entirely integrated into a processor. The integrated circuit method is not limited to LSI, and may be realized by a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. In addition, when an integrated circuit technology that replaces LSI appears due to the advancement of semiconductor technology, an integrated circuit based on that technology may be used.

[0155] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to the above, and various design changes, etc. are possible within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0156] Sys Broadcasting System 1 Broadcasting Station 2. Receiving device 3 Broadcasting station server 4. Operator Server 5 OTT Server 20 Main System Section 21 Receiving section 22 Input section 23 Broadcast Wave Processing Section 231 Demodulation section 232 Separation section 233 Video Processing Unit 234 Audio Processing Unit 235 Output Processing Section 24 OTT Processing Unit 241 Contents Processing Unit 242 Content output processing unit 25 Output section 26 Switching Processing Section 261 Judgment section 262 Decision Section 263 Detection Unit

Claims

1. A first transmitting device for transmitting an application, A second transmitting device that transmits content, A transmission system including, The aforementioned application is executed by a receiving device that receives the application and the broadcast content, based on the data broadcast corresponding to the broadcast content. The aforementioned content is presented in the receiving device by the execution of the application. Transmission system.

2. A transmission method in a transmission system, The step of submitting the application, The step of sending content, The aforementioned application is executed by a receiving device that receives the application and the broadcast content, based on the data broadcast corresponding to the broadcast content. The aforementioned content is presented in the receiving device by the execution of the application. Sending method.

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