Receiving apparatus and receiving method

Abstract

To provide a receiver and a reception method for confirming whether or not an application is appropriate before starting.SOLUTION: In a broadcast system, a reception device 2 determines whether or not it is compatible with activation of a registered general application specified by BroadcastMarkupLanguage (BML) content transmitted by data broadcasting, a reception unit 21 receives a broadcast wave via an antenna, an input unit 22 acquires an operation signal based on a user's operation and outputs the acquired operation signal to a main system unit 20, and the main system unit 20 has a function of controlling an operation of the reception device 2. The main system 20 separates a data signal from the broadcast signal input from the receiver 21, decodes an audio signal and a video signal indicating the audio forming the content, and outputs the decoded audio signal and video signal to the output unit 25.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In recent years, OTT (Over the Top) services have rapidly become popular. 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 similar services. OTT services include Video on Demand (VoD) services and catch-up streaming services. VoD services allow users to watch a variety of video content whenever they want. Catch-up streaming services are services that deliver 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, consideration is being given to using data broadcasting to guide users to OTT services such as catch-up streaming services during or after the distribution of broadcast content via terrestrial broadcasting.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a receiving device that inserts URL information of a website that provides information related to television broadcast content, including at least advertisements or programs, and simultaneously transmits the content; the viewer records information on the date and time the broadcast was received and the broadcast station as broadcast reception data; queries this data to a query center that captures 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] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-38640 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, when launching an OTT service application (also called a registered general application or a general application) or a web browser via data broadcasting, there is no prior confirmation of whether each application can be launched. As a result, when launching an application via data broadcasting, there is a risk that an application that is undesirable for the receiving device or the user may be launched unintentionally, or that an application that has not been sufficiently verified may be launched, causing the operation of the receiving device to become unstable.

[0007] Thus, there has been a problem in that it is not possible to check whether an application is appropriate before starting it via data broadcasting.

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned points, and has as its object to provide a receiving device and a receiving method that can check whether an application is appropriate before starting it. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] (1) The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one aspect of the present invention is a receiving device that includes an application processing unit that launches an application based on data broadcasting while broadcast content is being presented, and presents content of a media service by executing the application, and a switching processing unit that, if it is not possible to switch to the presentation state of the broadcast content, presents a means for switching to the presentation state of the broadcast content, and determines whether or not the application is compatible with launch, and the switching processing unit presents the switching means before launching the application.

[0010] (2) Also, one aspect of the present invention is a receiving method in a receiving device, comprising the steps of: determining whether or not the device is capable of launching an application; launching the application based on data broadcasting while broadcast content is being presented, and presenting content of a media service by executing the application; and, if it is not possible to switch to the presentation state of the broadcast content, presenting a means for switching to the presentation state of the broadcast content, wherein the step of presenting the switching means is a receiving method in which the switching means is presented before the application is launched. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to check whether an application is appropriate before starting it. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a broadcasting system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of content switching according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a receiving device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a command related to starting an application according to the present embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a command related to starting the extra browser according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a command related to application version identification according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a command related to checking a function incorporated in the browser according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a command for starting an application according to the present embodiment via data broadcasting. FIG. [Figure 9] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of an API command for starting an application according to this embodiment via data broadcasting. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 is a diagram showing an example of an API command for starting an application according to this embodiment via data broadcasting. FIG. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content switching process according to the present embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content switching process according to a modified example of the present embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content switching process according to a modified example of the present embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a content switching command according to a modified example of the present embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content switching process according to a modified example of the present embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 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. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to the present embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an extra browser according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content switching process according to the present embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to the present embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to the present embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to the present embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to the present embodiment. [Figure 25] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of return values ​​in response to a command related to starting an application in the receiving device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 26] 10 is a diagram showing another example of a return value in response to a command related to starting an application in the receiving device according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 27] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an application startup process according to the present embodiment. [Figure 28] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of application startup processing according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[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 also apply to broadcasting using broadcasting satellites. Broadcasting using broadcasting satellites is, for example, advanced BS (Broadcasting Satellites) digital broadcasting or advanced wideband CS (Communication Satellites) digital broadcasting. Furthermore, broadcasting may also 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 broadcasting waves. The application control information is control information such as commands for starting and stopping applications that are linked to programs, such as OTT service applications, and notifying receiving devices compatible with this system. The broadcasting station 1 operates a broadcasting station server 3 in the broadcasting system Sys. The broadcasting station server 3 provides metadata such as program title, program ID, program summary, cast, broadcast date and time, etc. The information provided by the broadcasting station 1 to the service provider is provided using an API (Application Programming Interface) provided by the broadcasting 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 create and distribute the content 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 application management and distribution. As a server for each service, the provider server 4 provides server functions for realizing individual services (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 testing standards. MPEG-H audio, for example, enables object-based audio. An "object" in object-based audio is each individual sound component that makes up a program, such as music or human voice. Object-based audio records an audio signal for each sound component, allowing for audio control for each component. Furthermore, when a program is played back on a receiving device 2, it can be played back based on the actual speaker position, using playback position information for the component.

[0018] AC-4 is an audio compression technology developed primarily for broadcasting and online 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 content that makes up the services (MPEG-H audio data, AC-4 audio data, VOD content, subtitle data, etc.) The provider server 4 is registered as a "repository" to distribute applications of the broadcasting system Sys, and provides and searches for a list of available applications in response to inquiries from the receiving device 2.

[0020] The OTT server 5 is operated by a service provider that provides OTT services and has the function of managing content distributed on demand. The OTT server 5 has the 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 has 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 broadcasts - Function to execute applications in response to application control signals from broadcasting - Function to present information through collaboration between broadcasting and communications - Device linking function

[0022] Here, the terminals include, for example, user terminals such as tablet terminals, personal computers, smartphones, smart speakers, etc. The terminal linking function of the receiving device 2 can access broadcast resources such as program information in response to a request from another terminal, or call receiving device functions such as playback control.

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

[0024] The receiving device 2 has an application control function that controls the application engine mainly for managed applications based on application control information acquired from a server on the 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 stream presentation synchronization of video, audio, etc. received by broadcasting and video, audio, etc. received by streaming. The receiving device 2 has, as an application launcher function, a navigation function that allows the user to select and launch a managed application outside of 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, part, or all of the functions of the broadcast station 1, the broadcast station server 3, the provider server 4, and the OTT server 5 described above.

[0027] [Content switching function] Next, the content switching function in this embodiment will be described. The receiving device 2 according to this 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 as a transition destination by data broadcasting (transitioning to an application) while displaying broadcast content such as terrestrial digital broadcasting as a transition source. Furthermore, the receiving device 2 has a function 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 launched includes a process of executing a switch to the display of the broadcast content before the application was launched, and a process of presenting a means of switching to the display of the broadcast content before the application was launched. In other words, the process of switching to the display of the broadcast content before the application was launched includes a process of returning to the broadcast content before the application was launched (also referred to as a process of instructing a transition from the application to the broadcast content that was the transition source), and a process of presenting a means for returning to the broadcast content before the application was launched. Next, content switching functions 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 this embodiment. In the illustrated example, t represents the time that passes, such as times t0, t1, and t2. Broadcast content refers to broadcast content such as terrestrial digital broadcasting, and is content continuously transmitted from broadcast station 1. Display content is content displayed on receiving device 2. Receiving device 2 displays broadcast content on channel X (Xch) at time t0. Receiving device 2 receives an instruction to start an application at time t1 while displaying the broadcast content. Based on the start instruction, receiving device 2 starts the application of the OTT service. Based on the application being started, receiving device 2 displays the content of the OTT service.

[0030] Based on the completion of the OTT service content, the receiving device 2 terminates the OTT service application at time t2. Based on the completion of the OTT service application, the receiving device 2 displays the broadcast content on channel X that was displayed up to time t1 before the OTT service application was launched. 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 launched 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 launched.

[0031] [Configuration of receiving device] 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 this embodiment. The receiving device 2 includes a main system unit 20, a receiving unit 21, an input unit 22, and an output unit 25. The receiving unit 21 has a function of receiving broadcast waves, i.e., 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 the function of receiving various information from other terminals via wired or wireless communication via a network that is communicatively connected to the receiving device 2, i.e., the function of 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 for executing or stopping a predetermined function, selecting a broadcast channel, selecting or setting various information, adjusting the volume, adjusting the color tone, 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 the display and function as a touch panel. The input unit 22 may include, for example, a sensor that receives an operation signal wirelessly from a remote controller (remote control). The sensor may be, for example, an infrared sensor or any other member that can detect electromagnetic waves that carry an operation signal.

[0034] The output unit 25 has a function of outputting (reproducing) audio 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 the 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 represent the audio that makes up 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 unit 20 also has a function of controlling the operation of the receiving device 2 based on an operation signal input from the input unit 22 .

[0037] The main system unit 20 also decodes the audio signal and video signal that make up 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 switching between outputting OTT content by executing the OTT application and outputting broadcast content.

[0039] The main system unit 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 26. 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. The superimposed text data string and subtitle data string separated by the separator 232 are decoded by a superimposed text decoder and subtitle decoder (not shown), respectively, and the decoded text strings are superimposed on the video.

[0041] The video processing unit 233 decodes the input video data stream. The audio processing unit 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 output unit 25 to display the video on the display and output the audio from the speaker.

[0042] The OTT processing unit 24 performs 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 performs various output processes on the signal input from the content processing unit 241. The content output processing unit 242 outputs the signal that has been 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, and displays the video on the display of the output unit 25 and outputs the sound to the speaker.

[0043] The switching processing unit 26 has a function of activating and terminating an OTT application. After the OTT application is terminated, the switching processing unit 26 executes processing for switching to the display of the content before the OTT application was activated. After the OTT application is terminated, the switching processing unit 26 causes the output unit 25 to output a means for switching to the display of the broadcast content before the OTT application was activated. After the OTT application is terminated, the switching processing unit 26 determines whether it is possible to switch to the display of the broadcast content before the OTT application was activated. Based on the determination result, the switching processing unit 26 determines whether to present a switching means or to switch to the display of the broadcast content. The switching processing unit 26 detects whether the parameter instructing switching to the broadcast content is supported. If the parameter instructing switching to the broadcast content is not supported, the switching processing unit 26 causes a means for switching to the broadcast content to be presented by data broadcasting.

[0044] The switching processing unit 26 includes a determining unit 261 , a deciding unit 262 , and a detecting 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 has been terminated. Based on the determination result, the decision unit 262 decides whether to present a switching means or to switch to displaying the broadcast content. The detection unit 263 detects whether or not the parameter corresponds to a parameter instructing switching to broadcast content.

[0045] Next, we will explain how to start and end an OTT application and how to switch to broadcast content. The launch and termination of OTT applications and the provision of switching means to broadcast content can be performed by executing commands written in the XML-based Broadcast Markup Language (BML) via data broadcasting. The launch and termination of OTT applications and the provision 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 this embodiment. Command CM1 is a BML command for starting an application on the receiving device. startResidentApp() is a command that can specify the application to be started and the URI of the component to be presented first when the started application is closed 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 closed and the BML browser is restarted can be specified by the input String returnURI. Note that if the URI of the component to be presented first is not specified, the returnURI will be an empty string.

[0047] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a command for starting the extra browser according to this 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 start 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 example shown, 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 problems without specifying the component to be presented first by the return URI. However, recent receiving devices 2 have multiple applications, so if the URI of the component to be presented first is not specified by the return URI, when the BML browser is restarted, it may not be possible to switch to the broadcast content that was present 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 FIGS. 6 and 7 are used. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a command related to application version identification according to this embodiment.

[0050] The command CM3 is a command for identifying the version of an application. The command Array getResidentAppVersion(input String appName) returns an array of application information as Array[0], Array[1], Array[2], Array[3], and Array[4] if successful for the argument appName. The command Array getResidentAppVersion(input String appName) returns null if unsuccessful for the 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, if 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 launching. For example, if a value exists in Array[4], the application ExampleApplication is launched using command CM1 shown in Figure 4 or command CM2 shown in Figure 5.

[0052] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a command related to checking the functions incorporated in the browser according to this embodiment. The command CM4 is used to check the functions built into the browser. The command getBrowserSupport() returns a value of 1 or 0 for the 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, the arguments functionname: ResidentApp and additionalinfo: ExampleApplication are specified for 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 by 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 takes as an argument a url that represents the entry URL of the general application to which the transition is to be made and obtains a return value of type void. In this embodiment, when the API command is executed via data broadcasting, the application indicated by the argument url is launched. Note that although this API command can launch an application via data broadcasting, it cannot specify the content before the application was launched as the return destination when the launched application is terminated.

[0055] Next, the content switching process according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of content switching processing according to this 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 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, that is, whether it supports a catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app), by executing a BML command via data broadcasting. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether it 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 that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched after the catch-up delivery app is terminated. Specifically, the receiving device 2 determines whether or not it is 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, depending on whether the receiving device 2 supports returnURI, which specifies the URI of the component that is first presented after the launched application is terminated. 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, 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 that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched after the catch-up delivery app is terminated, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S116.

[0058] In step S106, when the catch-up delivery app is terminated, the receiving device 2 causes the output unit 25 to output means for switching to the display of the broadcast content before the catch-up delivery app was launched, and presents the means to the user. The means for switching to the broadcast content before the catch-up delivery app was launched is presented to the user at a timing before the catch-up delivery app is launched. 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 broadcasting station 1 executes a command via data broadcasting to start the catch-up broadcast delivery app of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcasting station 1 executes the commands shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, and Fig. 10 via data broadcasting to start the catch-up broadcast delivery app of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up broadcast delivery app.

[0060] In step S110, the broadcasting station 1 terminates the catch-up delivery application based on the completion of the playback of the OTT content.

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

[0062] In step S114, upon receiving a user operation such as a means for switching 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. 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. 11 ends.

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

[0064] In step S118, the broadcast station 1 terminates the catch-up delivery app based on the completion of 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 app corresponding to returnURI is terminated based on the execution of a command via data broadcasting. For example, the receiving device 2 displays the broadcast content based on the specification of switching to the broadcast content that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched as the URI of the component to be presented first after the catch-up delivery app is terminated. Then, the content switching process in FIG. 11 is terminated.

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

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

[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, thereby improving user convenience. Furthermore, even if the receiving device does not support switching due to content termination, it is possible to present the user with a means for switching to broadcast content, thereby 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 content switching processing according to a modification of this 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, that is, whether it supports a catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app), by executing a BML command via data broadcasting. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether it 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 that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched after the catch-up delivery app is terminated. Specifically, the receiving device 2 determines whether or not it is 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, depending on whether the receiving device 2 supports returnURI, which specifies the URI of the component that is first presented after the launched application is terminated. 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, 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 that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched after the catch-up delivery app is terminated, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S216.

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

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

[0074] In step S210, the broadcasting station 1 terminates the catch-up distribution application based on the completion of the playback of the OTT content.

[0075] In step S212, the receiving device 2 selects the broadcast content identified 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 broadcasting station 1 executes a command via data broadcasting to start the catch-up broadcast delivery app of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcasting station 1 executes the commands shown in Fig. 4, Fig. 5, and Fig. 10 via data broadcasting to start the catch-up broadcast delivery app of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up broadcast delivery app.

[0078] In step S218, the broadcast station 1 terminates the catch-up delivery app based on the completion of 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 app corresponding to returnURI is terminated based on the execution of a command via data broadcasting. For example, the receiving device 2 displays the broadcast content based on the specification of switching to the broadcast content that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched as the URI of the component to be presented first after the catch-up delivery app is terminated. Then, the content switching process in FIG. 12 is terminated.

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

[0080] Note that, after the catch-up delivery application is terminated, 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 may be performed by executing a BML command.

[0081] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of content switching processing according to a modification of this 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 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, that is, whether it supports the catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app), by executing a BML command via data broadcasting. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether it 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 that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched after the catch-up delivery app is terminated. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether or not the receiving device supports returnURI, which specifies the URI of the component that is first presented after the launched application is terminated by executing a BML command. 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, 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 that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched after the catch-up delivery app is terminated, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S316.

[0084] Here, we will explain the BML command getResidentAppRUSupport() used to determine whether or not returnURI is supported. The command used for the determination in step S304 is number getResidentAppRUSupport(input String appName). appName is the name indicating the application of the receiving device, and is the argument of 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 the 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, which represents notification information indicating a means for switching to broadcast content for receiving devices that do not support returnURI.

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

[0087] In step S310, the broadcasting station 1 terminates the catch-up delivery application based on the completion of the playback of the OTT content.

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

[0089] In step S314, upon receiving a user operation such as a means for switching 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. 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.

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

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

[0093] As described above, according to this modification, it is possible to determine whether switching from a catch-up delivery app to broadcast content is supported, and to present a switching procedure if switching to broadcast content is not supported, by using a BML command, thereby improving user convenience. Furthermore, 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 the application may be executed by hybrid casting after the application is terminated.

[0095] Here, the commands according to this modification will be described. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a command related to content switching according to a modification of this embodiment. The command hasCapability(query, [param1,.,paramN]) is a command used to check whether it is possible to return to broadcast content and whether external launch of the application is supported. The arguments are query, param1, ..., paramN. The return value type is Bloolean. The argument types are String, String (takes a variable number of arguments). If an unknown specification is made in query or param, false is returned. The parameter query is extraApp, param1 is the name of the application, and param2 indicates 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 content switching processing according to a modification of this 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, and starts hybridcast (HC). The receiving device 2 also causes the output unit 25 to output the selected broadcast content.

[0097] In step S402, the broadcast station 1 executes a command via hybridcast to determine whether the receiving device 2 supports the OTT service, i.e., whether it supports a catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app). Specifically, the broadcast station 1 executes the command shown in FIG. 14 via 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 that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched after the catch-up delivery app is terminated. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether or not it is 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, 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 that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was launched after the catch-up delivery app is terminated, the receiving device 2 executes the process of step S416.

[0099] In step S406, the broadcasting 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 broadcasting station 1 executes a command via data broadcasting to start the catch-up broadcast delivery app of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcasting station 1 executes the command shown in Fig. 14 to start the catch-up broadcast delivery app of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up broadcast delivery app.

[0101] In step S410, the broadcasting station 1 terminates the catch-up delivery application based on the completion of the playback of the OTT content.

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

[0103] In step S414, upon receiving a user operation such as a means for switching 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. 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.

[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 the 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 broadcasting station 1 executes the command to start the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcasting station 1 executes the command shown in Fig. 14 by data broadcasting to start the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2. The receiving device 2 displays the OTT content by executing the catch-up delivery app.

[0106] In step S418, the broadcast station 1 terminates the catch-up distribution 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, 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] [Configuration of receiving device] 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 to execute processes for starting and ending the OTT application, returning to broadcast content, and switching to display of the broadcast content at the transition source, and a process for presenting a means for returning to the broadcast content (a process for presenting a means for switching to display of the broadcast content at the transition source). After the OTT application is terminated, the switching processing unit 26 executes a process for returning to the content at the transition source before the OTT application was started. After the OTT application is terminated, the switching processing unit 26 causes the output unit 25 to output a means for returning to the broadcast content at the transition source before the OTT application was started.

[0111] The switching processing unit 26 determines whether or not it is possible to return to the broadcast content that was the transition source before the OTT application was launched after the OTT application is terminated. Based on the determination result, the switching processing unit 26 decides whether to present a means for returning or to execute processing for returning to the broadcast content. The switching processing unit 26 detects whether or not the parameters for returning to the broadcast content are supported. If the parameters for returning to the broadcast content are not supported, the switching processing unit 26 causes a means for returning to the broadcast content to be presented by data broadcasting.

[0112] The switching processing unit 26 includes a determining unit 261 , a deciding unit 262 , and a detecting 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 has ended. Based on the determination result, the decision unit 262 decides 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 process of starting and ending an OTT application, returning to broadcast content, and presenting a means for returning to broadcast content will be described. Starting and ending an OTT application, returning to broadcast content, and presenting a 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 receiving device 2 execute the commands. Note that the receiving device 2 may execute API commands to start and end the OTT application, return to the broadcast content, and present a means for returning to the broadcast content.

[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 that can specify 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 displayed 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.

[0115] Next, a command related to starting the extra browser according to this embodiment will be described with reference to 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 start 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 example shown, the extra browser to be launched can be specified by the input String browserName. Also, the URI of the component to be first presented 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.

[0117] The BML browser is a browser for displaying and executing BML commands that are pre-installed in the receiving device 2. Conventional receiving devices 2 have had only a small number of applications, and therefore could operate without any problem even without specifying the component to be presented first by the return URI. However, recent receiving devices 2 have multiple applications. Therefore, if the URI of the component to be presented first is not specified by the return URI, when the BML browser is restarted, it may not be possible to switch to the broadcast content that was present 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, which will be described with reference to the commands shown in FIGS.

[0119] The command CM3 is a command for identifying the version of an application. The command Array getResidentAppVersion(input String appName) returns an array of application information as Array[0], Array[1], Array[2], Array[3], and Array[4] if successful for the argument appName. The command Array getResidentAppVersion(input String appName) returns null if unsuccessful for the 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, if 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 launching. For example, if a value exists in Array[4], the application ExampleApplication is launched using command CM1 shown in Figure 4 or command CM2 shown in Figure 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. The command CM4 is used to check the functions built into the browser. The command getBrowserSupport() returns a value of 1 or 0 for the 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.

[0122] For example, in the illustrated example, the arguments functionname: ResidentApp and additionalinfo: ExampleApplication are specified for 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 by data broadcasting. Command CM5 is an API command that launches an application via data broadcasting. Command launchExApp() returns either 1 or NaN for the arguments uriname, MIME_type, and Ex_info. A return value of 1 indicates that the application was successfully launched. A return value of NaN indicates that the application failed to launch.

[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 the parameters related to the start of the application are compatible and whether the application has a function to return to the original state after terminating.

[0125] The command CM4 is a command for checking the functions built into the browser. The command getBrowserSupport() returns a value of 1 or 0 for the arguments functionname and additionalinfo. The argument functionname is a string that specifies the function name. The argument 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.

[0126] For example, in the illustrated example, the arguments functionname: SmarttvFunction and additionalinfo: Ctrl.ExtApp are specified for 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 command CM5 shown in FIG. 8.

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

[0128] That is, command CM4 using arguments functionname: SmarttvFunction, additionalinfo: Ctrl.ExtApp is a command for checking whether the application to be launched is an application for the OTT service corresponding to the launch. Also, command CM4 using arguments functionname: SmarttvFunction, additionalinfo: returnToBroadcast is a command for checking whether the application has a function for returning to the broadcast content from which the transition occurred after terminating.

[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, the command CM4 shown in FIG. 7 is used to check whether or not the command CM1 related to starting an application is supported, and whether or not the command CM4 has a function to return to the original state after the application is terminated.

[0130] For example, in the illustrated example, the arguments functionname: ResidentApp, additionalinfo: SmarttvAppLauncher are specified for 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 command CM1 shown in FIG. 4.

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

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

[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, the command CM4 shown in FIG. 7 is used to check whether the command CM2 related to starting the extra browser is supported and whether 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 for command CM4. If the receiving device has the residentApp function, a return value of 1 is obtained. If the return value is 1, SmarttvAppBrowser1 supports the ResidentApp function, and the application SmarttvAppBrowser1 is launched using command CM2 shown in FIG. 5.

[0135] Also, for example, in the illustrated example, the arguments functionname: ResidentApp and 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 command CM2 shown in FIG. 5.

[0136] Here, the arguments SmarttvAppBrowse1 and SmarttvAppBrowser2 differ depending on whether the application launch function is used to launch a registered general application specifying the fourth argument in URL format, or the application launch function is used to launch a registered general application specifying the fourth argument in AppID format.

[0137] In the illustrated example, for example, command CM4 is specified with arguments functionname: ResidentApp and additionalinfo: returnToBroadcastFromB. If the receiving device has a function to return to the source after terminating the application started by command CM2, 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 that corresponds 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 that corresponds 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 launched extra browser has a function for returning to the broadcast content from which the transition was made after terminating.

[0139] Next, the content switching process according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of content switching processing 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, and starts a BML browser. The receiving device 2 also causes the output unit 25 to output the selected broadcast content. Next, the processing proceeds to step S502.

[0140] In step S502, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports the OTT service, that is, whether the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app), by executing a BML command via data broadcasting. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery app by causing the receiving device 2 to execute 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 determines whether or not the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery app is launched can be switched to after the catch-up delivery app is terminated, i.e., whether or not the broadcast station 1 has a function to return to the broadcast content that was the transition source before the catch-up delivery app was launched. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether or not the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery app is launched can be switched to after the launched application is terminated, i.e., whether or not the broadcast station 1 has a function to return to the transition source after the application is terminated, by having the receiving device 2 execute command CM4. If the receiving device 2 is determined not to have a function to return to the transition source broadcast content after the catch-up delivery app is terminated (step S504 NO), the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S506. On the other hand, if the receiving device 2 is determined to have a function to return to the transition source broadcast content after the catch-up delivery app 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 and present to the user means for switching to the display of the broadcast content before the catch-up delivery app was launched when the catch-up delivery app was terminated, i.e., means for returning to the transition source broadcast content after the catch-up delivery app was terminated. The presentation of the means for returning to the transition source broadcast content after the catch-up delivery app is presented to the user at a timing before the catch-up delivery app is launched, i.e., before transitioning to the catch-up delivery app. The presentation of the means for returning to the transition source broadcast content is made, for example, by having the receiving device 2 execute a BML command via data broadcasting, causing the receiving device 2 to display a message for returning to the transition source broadcast content. The message includes operating instructions for the receiving device 2 for returning to the broadcast content. Thereafter, the broadcast station 1 executes the processing of step S508.

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

[0144] In step S510, based on the completion of the playback (distribution) of the OTT content, the broadcast station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to terminate the catch-up distribution application. 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 ends.

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

[0148] In step S518, the broadcast station 1 terminates the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2 based on the completion of the playback (delivery) of the OTT content. Furthermore, the broadcast station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute a command via data broadcasting, thereby executing a process of returning to the transition source that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app 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] The means for returning to the broadcast content may be presented by launching the catch-up broadcast delivery app and then displaying a guide within the launched catch-up broadcast delivery app.

[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, determines whether or not it is possible to execute a process to return 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 to return to the previous broadcast content.

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

[0152] <Third embodiment> Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the third embodiment, the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0153] [Configuration of receiving device] 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 .

[0154] The switching processing unit 26 has a function of starting and ending an OTT application. Before starting an OTT application, for example, while broadcast content is being displayed, the switching processing unit 26 determines whether the OTT application is an application that can be started by data broadcasting. If the OTT application is an application that can be started by data broadcasting, the switching processing unit 26 determines whether the OTT application is an application that can be started by data broadcasting by specifying an application identifier (AppID) assigned to each application in advance. If the switching processing unit 26 has an AppID, it starts and ends the OTT application.

[0155] The switching processing unit 26 will now be described in more detail. The switching processing unit 26 includes a determining unit 261, a deciding unit 262, and a detecting unit 263. The determining unit 261 includes a first determining unit 2611 (not shown) and a second determining unit 2612 (not shown). Before starting an OTT application, the first determination unit 2611 determines whether the OTT application can be started by data broadcasting. If the OTT application is an application that can be activated by data broadcasting, the second determination unit 2612 determines whether or not the OTT application is an application that can be activated by data broadcasting by specifying an AppID that is assigned to each application in advance.

[0156] Based on the determination result, the decision unit 262 decides whether to start or end the OTT application. The detection unit 263 detects a parameter indicating whether the OTT application supports start-up and end by data broadcasting.

[0157] Next, the start and end of an OTT application will be described. The OTT application is started and stopped by transmitting a command written in BML to the receiving device 2 via data broadcasting and executing the command on the receiving device 2. To start the OTT application, for example, any one of command CM1, command CM2, or command CM5 is used. Note that the OTT application may be started and ended by causing the receiving device 2 to execute an API command.

[0158] Next, a command for determining whether or not the OTT application can be activated by data broadcasting before activating the OTT application according to this embodiment will be described.

[0159] First, a case will be described in which it is determined whether or not an application can be activated by data broadcasting using command CM4 shown in FIG. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application using the command CM2 shown in FIG. 5 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated example is an example of arguments used when determining whether or not an application can be started by data broadcasting using command CM4 shown in FIG. 7, and starting the application using command CM2.

[0160] For example, in the illustrated example, the first line has the content "first argument" and "browserName", the type is "extra browser to launch", the specified string is "smarttvAppBrowser1", and the description is "This means that the launched extra browser is instructed to launch a registered general application." Also, in the illustrated example, the second line has the content "first argument" and "browserName", the type is "extra browser to launch", the specified string is "smarttvAppBrowser2", and the description is "This means that the launched extra browser is instructed to launch a registered general application." Also, in the illustrated example, the third line has the content "second argument" and "showAV", the type is "prohibit playback of TV video and audio", the specified string is "0", and the description is "prohibit playback of TV video and audio."

[0161] Also, in the illustrated example, the content of the fourth line is "third argument" and "returnURI", the type is "empty string", the specified string is """, and the explanation is "not specified". Also, in the illustrated example, the content of the fifth line is "fourth argument" and "URI to be passed to the application launcher", the type is "URI of the application", the specified string is "URI", and the explanation is "When [URL format] smarttvAppBrowser1 is specified, "Specify information to identify the registered general application you want to launch and information to be passed to the registered general application in URL format." Also, in the illustrated example, the content of the sixth line is "fourth argument" and "URI to be passed to the application launcher", the type is "URI of the application", and the specified string is "smarttv: / / aid. <appid> / <path> ? <query>", description "When [AppID format] smarttvAppBrowser2 is specified" "Specify the registered general application ID that identifies the registered general application you want to launch. <appid>and pass the path to the registered general application. <path>, query information <query>Specify it with .

[0162] In this example, for example, the first argument is used to identify the registered general application, and the fourth argument is used to identify each of the registered general applications. Here, with reference to FIG. 21, a case will be described in which it is determined using command CM4 whether or not the application is compatible with activation by data broadcasting.

[0163] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to this embodiment. For example, in the illustrated example, arguments functionname: ResidentApp, additionalinfo: smarttvAppBrowser1 are specified for command CM4. If the receiving device has the ResidentApp function, a return value of 1 is obtained. If the return value is 1, smarttvAppBrowser1 supports the ResidentApp function, and the application smarttvAppBrowser1 is launched using command CM2 shown in FIG. 5.

[0164] 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 command CM2 shown in FIG. 5.

[0165] Here, the arguments smarttvAppBrowse1 and smarttvAppBrowser2 differ depending on whether the application launch function is used to launch a registered general application specifying the fourth argument in URL format, or the application launch function is used to launch a registered general application specifying the fourth argument in AppID format.

[0166] When using the command definitions shown in Figure 21 and command CM4, it is possible to determine whether the receiving device 2 supports the launch of registered general applications, i.e., whether the receiving device 2 supports the launch of applications for OTT services.

[0167] On the other hand, command CM4 can be used to determine whether the receiving device 2 supports the launch of all registered general applications, but cannot determine whether each registered general application supports its launch. In other words, it can determine whether any of the applications of multiple OTT services viewable on the receiving device 2 supports the launch of the application via data broadcasting, but it cannot determine whether each of the applications of the multiple OTT services supports the launch of the application via data broadcasting. Therefore, the command definitions shown in Fig. 22 are used to determine whether each application supports the launch of the application via data broadcasting.

[0168] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to this embodiment. For example, in the illustrated example, the command CM4 has arguments functionname: smarttvAppID, additionalinfo: <appid>If the receiving device 2 has the smartAppID function, the return value is 1. If the return value is 1, <appid>Supports the smarttvAppID feature and the application <appid>is started using the command CM2 shown in FIG.

[0169] Next, a case where it is determined whether or not an application can be activated by data broadcasting using command CM4 shown in FIG. 7 will be described. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application using the command CM5 shown in FIG. 8 according to this embodiment. The illustrated example is an example of arguments used when determining whether or not an application can be started by data broadcasting using command CM4 shown in FIG. 7, and starting the application using command CM5.

[0170] For example, in the example shown in the figure, the first line has the content "first argument" and "URI", the type "URI string", the specified string "http: / / localhost / smarttvApp", and the explanation "This means that it instructs the launch of a registered general application." In the illustrated example, the second line has the content "Second argument" and "MIME-TYPE", the type "Other", the specified character string "Unfixed", and the description "Proprietor's unique service." Also, in the example shown in the figure, the content of the third line is "Third argument" "External application launch option", the type is "Not specified", the specified string is "null", and the explanation is "Specify a null value instead of the "Null" string."

[0171] Also, in the example shown, the content of the fourth line is "fourth argument" "external application control option", the type is "not specified", the specified string is "null", and the explanation is "Specify a null value instead of the "Null" string." In the example shown, the fifth line contains the "fifth argument" and "application name", the type is "application identifier", and the specified string is "<original_network_id> "_"<transport_steream_id> "_"<service_id> "+" <appid>", description "Enter the registered general application ID that identifies the registered general application you want to start. <appid>Specify it with . Also, in the example shown, the content of the sixth line is "sixth argument" and "application URI", the type is "application URI", the specified string is "URL", and the explanation is "Specify information to identify the registered general application you want to launch and information to be passed to the registered general application in URL format."

[0172] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a definition of a command related to starting an application according to this embodiment. The command CM4 is a command for checking the functions built into the browser. The command getBrowserSupport() returns a value of 1 or 0 for the arguments functionname and additionalinfo. The argument functionname is a string that specifies the function name. The argument 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.

[0173] For example, in the illustrated example, the arguments functionname: SmarttvFunction and additionalinfo: Ctrl.ExtApp are specified for 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 command CM5 shown in FIG. 8.

[0174] When using the command definitions and command CM4 shown in Figure 24, it is possible to determine whether the receiving device 2 supports the launch of registered general applications, i.e., whether the receiving device 2 supports the launch of applications for OTT services.

[0175] On the other hand, command CM4 can be used to determine whether the receiving device 2 supports the launch of all registered general applications, but cannot determine whether each registered general application supports its launch, which is a problem similar to that of the command definition and command CM4 shown in Fig. 21. In other words, it is possible to determine whether any of the applications of multiple OTT services viewable on the receiving device 2 supports the launch of the application via data broadcasting, but it is not possible to determine whether each of the applications of the multiple OTT services supports the launch of the application via data broadcasting. Therefore, the command definition shown in Fig. 22 is used to determine whether each application supports the launch of the application via data broadcasting.

[0176] Next, examples of return values ​​for each command related to starting an application for two receiving devices, receiving device A and receiving device B, will be described.

[0177] Fig. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a return value for a command related to the start of an application in the receiving device A according to this embodiment. Fig. 26 is a diagram showing another example of a return value for a command related to the start of an application in the receiving device B according to this embodiment.

[0178] Assume that receiving device A and receiving device B are currently displaying broadcast content. At this time, broadcast station 1 determines whether receiving device A and receiving device B support launching of registered general applications via data broadcasting corresponding to the broadcast content. The commands used for this determination are one or more of command CM5 (launchExApp()), command CM1 (startResidentApp()), and command CM2 (startExtraBrowser()). Then, broadcast station 1 uses the command definitions shown in Fig. 22 and command CM4 (getBrowserSupport()) to determine whether individual applications on receiving device A and receiving device B support launching via data broadcasting.

[0179] It is assumed that receiving device A supports command CM5 (launchExApp()) to launch a catch-up delivery application (also called an OTT application or registered general application). It is also assumed that applications with application identifiers (AppID) X and Y of receiving device A are applications that support launching via data broadcasting, and that the application with AppID Z does not support launching via data broadcasting. In this assumption, the return value of receiving device A in response to command CM4 is as shown in FIG.

[0180] In the example shown in FIG. 25, the function name on the first line is "SmarttvFunction", the additional info is "Ctrl.ExtApp", and the return value is "1". Also, the functionname on the second line is "ResidentApp", additionalinfo is "smarttvAppLauncher", and the return value is "0". Also, the functionname on the third line is "ResidentApp", the additionalinfo is "smarttvAppBrowser1", and the return value is "0". Also, the functionname on the 4th line is "ResidentApp", the additionalinfo is "smarttvAppBrowser2", and the return value is "0". Also, the functionname on line 5 is "smarttvAppID", additionalinfo is "X / Y", and the return value is "1". Also, the functionname on line 6 is "smarttvAppID", additionalinfo is "Z", and the return value is "0".

[0181] 25 is obtained from receiving device A as a return value for each command, broadcasting station 1 determines that it is possible to cause receiving device A to start an application with AppID X and an application with AppID Y using command CM5. In addition, broadcasting station 1 determines that it is possible not to start an application with AppID Z, or to start an application with AppID Z at the responsibility of the user or broadcasting station 1.

[0182] It is also assumed that receiving device B supports commands CM1 (startResidentApp()) and CM2 (startExtraBrowser()) that launch catch-up delivery applications (OTT applications, also referred to as registered general applications). It is also assumed that the application with application identifier (AppID) X of receiving device B is an application that supports launching via data broadcasting, and that applications with AppIDs Y and Z do not support launching via data broadcasting. It is also assumed that the argument of command CM2 supports URL format. The return value of receiving device B in response to command CM4 under this assumption is as shown in FIG. 26.

[0183] In the example shown in FIG. 26, the function name on the first line is "SmarttvFunction", the additional info is "Ctrl.ExtApp", and the return value is "0". Also, the functionname on the second line is "ResidentApp", additionalinfo is "smarttvAppLauncher", and the return value is "1". Also, the functionname on the third line is "ResidentApp", additionalinfo is "smarttvAppBrowser1", and the return value is "1". Also, the functionname on the 4th line is "ResidentApp", the additionalinfo is "smarttvAppBrowser2", and the return value is "0". Also, the functionname on line 5 is "smarttvAppID", additionalinfo is "X", and the return value is "1". Also, the function name on line 6 is "smarttvAppID", additional info is "Y / Z", and the return value is "0".

[0184] 26 is received from receiving device B in response to command CM4, broadcasting station 1 determines that it is possible to cause receiving device B to start the application with AppID X using command CM1 or command CM2. In addition, broadcasting station 1 determines that it is possible not to start the application with AppID Y and the application with AppID Z, or that it is possible to start the application with AppID Z at the responsibility of the user or broadcasting station 1.

[0185] Next, the flow of the application startup process according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing an example of application startup processing according to this embodiment. In step S600, the receiving device 2 starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected broadcast content in response to a channel selection operation and a power 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. Next, the processing proceeds to step S602.

[0186] In step S602, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 is compatible with an application (registered general application) of the OTT service, i.e., whether it is compatible with a catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app), by executing a BML command via data broadcasting. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 is compatible with the launch of a catch-up delivery app via data broadcasting by having the receiving device 2 execute command CM4 via data broadcasting. If it is determined that the receiving device 2 is compatible with the catch-up delivery app via data broadcasting (YES in step S602), the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S604. On the other hand, if it is determined that the receiving device 2 is not compatible with the launch of a catch-up delivery app via data broadcasting (NO in step S602), the broadcast station 1 terminates the application launch process shown in FIG. 27.

[0187] In step S604, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2 supports activation by specifying an AppID via data broadcasting, by executing a BML command via data broadcasting. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2 supports activation by specifying an AppID via data broadcasting, by having the receiving device 2 execute command CM4. If it is determined that the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2 does not support activation by specifying an AppID via data broadcasting (step S604 NO), the broadcast station 1 terminates the application activation process shown in Fig. 27. On the other hand, if it is determined that the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2 supports activation by specifying an AppID via data broadcasting (step S604 YES), the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S608.

[0188] In step S608, the broadcasting station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute the command via data broadcasting, thereby activating the catch-up broadcast delivery app of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcasting station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute one or more commands from among command CM1, command CM2, and command CM5 via data broadcasting, thereby activating the catch-up broadcast delivery app of the receiving device 2. The broadcasting station 1 executes the process of step S610.

[0189] In step S610, based on the completion of the playback (distribution) of the OTT content, the broadcast station 1 terminates the catch-up delivery application of the receiving device 2. Then, the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S606.

[0190] In step S606, the receiving device 2 starts the data broadcast corresponding to the selected content and starts the BML browser, and then ends the application start-up process in FIG.

[0191] As described above, the receiving device 2 according to this embodiment includes a start-up determination unit (first determination unit 2611) that determines whether an application can be started by data broadcasting while displaying broadcast content, and an identifier determination unit (second determination unit 2612) that, if the application can be started by data broadcasting, determines whether the application can be started by data broadcasting by specifying an application identifier that has been assigned to each application in advance.

[0192] In this way, before starting an application, it is possible to check whether the application supports startup via data broadcasting and whether the application supports startup by specifying an application identifier via data broadcasting, thereby improving user convenience.

[0193] In addition, the determination of whether an application is compatible with startup via data broadcasting, as described in the third embodiment, and the startup process of determining whether an application is compatible with startup via data broadcasting by specifying an application identifier, may be performed in combination with the application switching process and process of presenting the switching means described in the first embodiment, second embodiment, and each variant example.

[0194] For example, an example of combining the second embodiment and the third embodiment will be described.

[0195] <Fourth embodiment> In the fourth embodiment, the differences from the second and third embodiments will be mainly described.

[0196] FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an example of application startup processing according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In step S700, the receiving device 2 starts a data broadcast corresponding to the selected broadcast content in response to a channel selection operation and a power 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. Next, the processing proceeds to step S702.

[0197] In step S702, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports an application (registered general application) of the OTT service, i.e., whether it supports a catch-up delivery application (catch-up delivery app) by executing a BML command via data broadcasting. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the receiving device 2 supports the launch of a catch-up delivery app via data broadcasting by having the receiving device 2 execute command CM4 via data broadcasting. If it is determined that the receiving device 2 supports the catch-up delivery app via data broadcasting (YES in step S702), the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S704. On the other hand, if it is determined that the receiving device 2 does not support the launch of a catch-up delivery app via data broadcasting (NO in step S702), the broadcast station 1 terminates the process shown in FIG. 28.

[0198] In step S704, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2 supports activation by specifying an AppID via data broadcasting, by executing a BML command via data broadcasting. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2 supports activation by specifying an AppID via data broadcasting, by having the receiving device 2 execute command CM4. If it is determined that the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2 does not support activation by specifying an AppID via data broadcasting (step S704 NO), the broadcast station 1 terminates the processing in Fig. 28. On the other hand, if it is determined that the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2 supports activation by specifying an AppID via data broadcasting (step S704 YES), the broadcast station 1 executes the processing in step S706.

[0199] In step S706, the broadcast station 1 determines whether or not the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery app is launched can be switched to after the catch-up delivery app is terminated, i.e., whether or not the broadcast station 1 has a function to return to the broadcast content that was the transition source before the catch-up delivery app was launched. Specifically, the broadcast station 1 determines whether or not the broadcast content displayed before the catch-up delivery app is launched can be switched to after the launched application is terminated, i.e., whether or not the broadcast station 1 has a function to return to the transition source after the application is terminated, by having the receiving device 2 execute command CM4. If the receiving device 2 is determined not to have a function to return to the transition source broadcast content after the catch-up delivery app is terminated (step S706 NO), the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S708. On the other hand, if the receiving device 2 is determined to have a function to return to the transition source broadcast content after the catch-up delivery app is terminated (step S706 YES), the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S718.

[0200] In step S708, the broadcast station 1 causes the output unit 25 to output and present to the user means for switching to the display of the broadcast content before the catch-up delivery app was launched when the catch-up delivery app was terminated, i.e., means for returning to the transition source broadcast content after the catch-up delivery app was terminated. The means for returning to the transition source broadcast content after the catch-up delivery app is presented to the user at a timing before the catch-up delivery app is launched, i.e., before transitioning to the catch-up delivery app. The means for returning to the transition source broadcast content is presented to the user by, for example, causing the receiving device 2 to execute a BML command via data broadcasting, thereby displaying a message on the receiving device 2 for returning to the transition source broadcast content. The message includes operating instructions for the receiving device 2 for returning to the broadcast content. Thereafter, the broadcast station 1 executes the processing of step S710.

[0201] In step S710, the broadcasting station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute the commands via data broadcasting, and activates the catch-up broadcast delivery application of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcasting station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute each of commands CM1, CM2, and CM5 via data broadcasting, and activates the catch-up broadcast delivery application of the receiving device 2. The broadcasting station 1 executes the process of step S712.

[0202] In step S712, based on the completion of the playback (distribution) of the OTT content, the broadcast station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to terminate the catch-up distribution application. The broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S714.

[0203] In step S714, the broadcast station 1 accepts a user operation according to the means for returning to the transition source presented in step S708. The broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S716.

[0204] In step S716, 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 processing in FIG. 28 ends.

[0205] In step S718, the broadcasting station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute the commands via data broadcasting, thereby activating the catch-up broadcast delivery app of the receiving device 2. Specifically, the broadcasting station 1 causes the receiving device 2 to execute each of commands CM1, CM2, and CM5 via data broadcasting, thereby activating the catch-up broadcast delivery app of the receiving device 2. The broadcasting station 1 executes the process of step S720.

[0206] In step S720, the broadcast station 1 terminates the catch-up delivery app of the receiving device 2 based on the completion of the playback (delivery) of the OTT content. Thereafter, the broadcast station 1 executes the process of step S716, and by having the receiving device 2 execute a command via data broadcasting, the broadcast station 1 executes the process of returning to the transition source that was displayed before the catch-up delivery app was started, and causes the receiving device 2 to display the broadcast content that is the transition source. Then, the process relating to Fig. 28 ends.

[0207] As described above, the receiving device 2 according to this embodiment includes a start-up determination unit (first determination unit 2611) that determines whether an application can be started by data broadcasting while displaying broadcast content, and an identifier determination unit (second determination unit 2612) that, if the application can be started by data broadcasting, determines whether the application can be started by data broadcasting by specifying an application identifier that has been assigned to each application in advance.

[0208] In this way, before starting an application, it is possible to check whether the application is compatible with starting via data broadcasting and whether the application is compatible with starting by specifying an application identifier via data broadcasting. Furthermore, when an application is terminated, the receiving device 2 can check whether or not it is possible to return to the broadcast content that was displayed before the application was executed, thereby improving user convenience.

[0209] As described above, the third embodiment may be combined with the application switching process and the process of presenting a switching means described in the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and each modification. In this case, for example, instead of the process of steps S706 to S720 described in the fourth embodiment, the process of steps S104 to S118, the process of steps S204 to S218, the process of steps S304 to S318, and the process of steps S404 to S418 may be performed.

[0210] Note that a portion of the broadcast station 1, receiving device 2, broadcast station server 3, provider server 4, and OTT server 5 in the above-described embodiment, for example, at least a portion of the separation unit 232, video processing unit 233, audio processing unit 234, output processing unit 235, determination unit 261, decision unit 262, detection unit 263, content processing unit 241, and content output processing unit 242 of the receiving device 2, may be implemented by a computer. In this case, the control functions may be realized by recording a program for realizing the control functions on a computer-readable recording medium, and reading and executing the program recorded on the recording medium into a computer system. Note that the "computer system" referred to here refers to a computer system built into the broadcast station 1, receiving device 2, broadcast station server 3, provider server 4, and OTT server 5, and includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices.

[0211] Furthermore, "computer-readable recording media" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording media" may also include devices that dynamically store programs for a short period of time, such as communication lines used when transmitting programs over networks like the Internet or communication lines like telephone lines, or devices that store programs for a fixed period of time, such as volatile memory within computer systems that serve as servers or clients in such cases. Furthermore, the above-mentioned programs may be programs that realize some of the aforementioned functions, or may be programs that can realize the aforementioned functions in combination with programs already stored in the computer system.

[0212] Furthermore, some or all of the broadcast station 1, receiving device 2, broadcast station server 3, provider server 4, and OTT server 5 in the above-described embodiments may be realized as integrated circuits such as LSI (Large Scale Integration). Each functional block of the broadcast station 1, receiving device 2, broadcast station server 3, provider server 4, and OTT server 5 may be individually implemented as a processor, or some or all of them may be integrated into a processor. Furthermore, the integrated circuit implementation method is not limited to LSI, and may be implemented using a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. Furthermore, if an integrated circuit implementation technology that can replace LSI emerges due to advances in semiconductor technology, an integrated circuit based on that technology may be used.

[0213] One embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, but the specific configuration is not limited to that described above, and various design changes and the like are possible within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0214] Sys Broadcasting System 1 Broadcasting Station 2, A, B receiving device 3 Broadcasting station server 4. Operator server 5 OTT Server 20 Main System Section 21 Receiving unit 22 Input section 23 Broadcast wave processing section 231 Demodulation Unit 232 Separation section 233 Video Processing Unit 234 Audio Processing Unit 235 Output Processing Unit 24 OTT processing unit 241 Content Processing Unit 242 Content output processing unit 25 Output section 26 Switching processing section 261 Judgment section 2611 1st Judgment Department 2612 Second Judgment Department 262 Decision Section 263 Detector< / appid> < / appid> < / appid> < / appid> < / appid> < / query> < / path> < / appid> < / query> < / path> < / appid>

Claims

1. During presentation of broadcast content, an application is started based on data broadcasting, an application processing unit that presents content of a media service by executing the application; If the broadcast content cannot be switched to a presentation state, a switching processing unit that presents a switching means to switch to the presentation state of the broadcast content, determining whether or not the application is capable of being launched; The switching processing unit presents the switching means before starting the application. Receiving device.

2. A receiving method in a receiving device, determining whether or not the application launch is supported; launching the application based on data broadcasting while broadcast content is being presented; presenting content of a media service by executing the application; If the broadcast content cannot be switched to a presentation state, and presenting a means for switching to the presentation state of the broadcast content; The step of presenting the switching means includes: The switching means is presented before the application is started. Receiving method.

Images