Transmission device and transmission method

Abstract

To more surely recognize simultaneous broadcasting.SOLUTION: There is provided a transmission device including a transmission unit configured to transmit a broadcast stream including signaling information regarding a broadcast component configuring content, in which the signaling information includes a descriptor in which a service identifier or location information for identifying a service corresponding to simultaneous broadcast content among one or more services included in a transmission stream for transmitting the simultaneous broadcast content corresponding to the content is arranged, and the descriptor is included in broadcaster information regarding information of a broadcaster. The present disclosure can be applied to, for example, a transmission system corresponding to a broadcasting scheme of terrestrial digital television broadcasting.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a transmission device and a transmission method, and more particularly to a transmission device and a transmission method that enable simultaneous broadcasting to be recognized more reliably. [Background technology]

[0002] The next generation of digital television broadcasting is currently being studied for its sophistication. When the next generation broadcasting service begins operation, simultaneous broadcasting will be carried out for the time being.

[0003] An example of a technique related to simulcasting is disclosed in Non-Patent Document 1. Non-Patent Document 1 makes it possible to specify the major channel number and minor channel number of the broadcasting system in which simulcasting is carried out. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0004] [Non-Patent Document 1] ATSC Standard: "Signaling, Delivery, Synchronization, and Error Protection" Doc. A / 331:2020 16 January 2020 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When operating simulcasting, it is necessary for the receiver to recognize that simulcasting is being carried out. Therefore, a proposal for a method to reliably recognize simulcasting was requested.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in light of these circumstances, and aims to enable simultaneous broadcasts to be recognized more reliably. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A transmitting device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a generating unit that generates a broadcast stream including broadcast components that constitute content and signaling information related to the broadcast components, and a transmitting unit that transmits the broadcast stream, wherein the signaling information includes a descriptor in which a service identifier or location information for identifying simulcast content corresponding to the content is placed.

[0008] A transmission method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a transmission method in which a transmitting device generates a broadcast stream including broadcast components that constitute content and signaling information related to the broadcast components, the signaling information including a descriptor in which a service identifier or location information for identifying simulcast content corresponding to the content is placed, and transmits the broadcast stream.

[0009] In a transmitting device and a transmitting method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a broadcast stream is generated that includes broadcast components that constitute content and signaling information relating to the broadcast components, the signaling information including a descriptor in which a service identifier or location information for identifying simulcast content corresponding to the content is placed, and the broadcast stream is transmitted.

[0010] A receiving device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a receiving unit that receives a broadcast stream including broadcast components that constitute content and signaling information related to the broadcast components, and a processing unit that processes the broadcast components based on the signaling information, wherein the signaling information includes a descriptor in which a service identifier or location information for identifying simulcast content corresponding to the content is placed.

[0011] In a receiving device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a broadcast stream is received that includes broadcast components that constitute content and signaling information relating to the broadcast components, the signaling information including a descriptor in which a service identifier or location information for identifying simulcast content corresponding to the content is placed, and the broadcast components are processed based on the signaling information.

[0012] The transmitting device and receiving device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may be independent devices or may be internal blocks constituting a single device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an embodiment of a transmission system to which the present disclosure is applied. [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the transmitting device of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the receiving device of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the syntax of a simulcast descriptor. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 illustrates an example of the semantics of a simulcast descriptor. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of system_type. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of transmission_mode. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of guard_interval. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the minimum configuration of a simulcast descriptor. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the location of a simulcast descriptor. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of transmission of a service_id. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of transmission of remote_control_key_id. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of operations during an initial scan in the receiving device. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a first example of transmission of video resolution information. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of video_resolution. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second example of transmission of video resolution information. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of stream_content and component_type. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of operations performed when selecting a channel in the receiving device. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of processing on the transmitting side and the receiving side to which the present disclosure is applied. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a computer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] 1. Embodiments of the Present Disclosure

[0015] (Transmission system configuration) FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an embodiment of a transmission system to which the present disclosure is applied.

[0016] In FIG. 1, the transmission system is made up of a transmitting device 10 and a receiving device 20.

[0017] The transmitting device 10 generates a broadcast stream and transmits it as a broadcast signal. The broadcast stream includes broadcast components that make up content such as programs and commercials, and signaling information related to the broadcast components.

[0018] The receiving device 20 is a fixed receiver such as a television receiver, a set-top box (STB), a recording device, a game console, or a network storage, or an in-vehicle receiver installed in a vehicle such as an in-vehicle television. The receiving device 20 may also be a mobile receiver such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, or a tablet computer.

[0019] The receiving device 20 receives a broadcast signal transmitted from the transmitting device 10 via a transmission path 30. The receiving device 20 processes broadcast components based on signaling information obtained from the broadcast stream, thereby outputting video and audio of content such as a program, allowing a user to view the content such as a program.

[0020] (Configuration of transmitting device) FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the transmitting device 10 of FIG.

[0021] In FIG. 2, the transmission device 10 includes a generation unit 101 and a transmission unit 102.

[0022] The generator 101 generates a broadcast stream including broadcast components that make up the content and signaling information, and supplies the generated stream to the transmitter 102 .

[0023] The content is a program produced by a broadcasting station, and its broadcast components are input to the generation unit 101. The broadcast components include video stream and audio stream components. The broadcast components may further include other components such as a subtitle stream.

[0024] The signaling information is control information used in processing in higher layers, and is signaling information related to broadcast components. The higher layers are layers higher than the physical layer. The generator 101 generates the signaling information based on the information input thereto.

[0025] The transmitting unit 102 performs necessary processing such as modulation on the broadcast stream supplied from the generating unit 101, and transmits it as a broadcast signal. The broadcast signal is transmitted from a transmitting antenna installed at a transmitting station.

[0026] (Configuration of receiving device) FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the receiving device 20 of FIG.

[0027] In FIG. 3, the receiving device 20 includes a receiving unit 201 and a processing unit 202 .

[0028] The receiving unit 201 is composed of a tuner, a demodulation LSI (Large Scale Integration), etc. The receiving unit 201 performs necessary processing such as demodulation on a broadcast signal received via an antenna, and supplies the resulting broadcast stream to the processing unit 202.

[0029] The processing unit 202 is composed of a main SoC (System On Chip) and the like. The processing unit 202 performs necessary processing, such as decoding and playback, on the broadcast stream supplied from the receiving unit 201. The broadcast stream includes broadcast components and signaling information. For example, in the decoding and playback processing, the data of the broadcast components is decoded and played back based on the signaling information.

[0030] The video and audio data obtained through the decoding process, playback process, etc. is output to the subsequent circuit, whereby the receiving device 20 displays the video of the content such as a program on the display, and outputs the audio synchronized with the video from the speaker.

[0031] In the transmission system configured as above, the broadcast stream generated by the transmitting device 10 is received and processed by the receiving device 20 via the transmission path 30, thereby making it possible to view content such as a program.

[0032] In the above-described configuration, the transmitting device 10 has the generating unit 101 and the transmitting unit 102, but the generating unit 101 and the transmitting unit 102 may be provided in separate devices. That is, the transmitting system may be configured as a system including a device having the generating unit 101 and a device having the transmitting unit 102. In addition, in the above-described configuration, the case where there is one receiving device 20 has been exemplified, but in reality, a plurality of receiving devices 20 are provided. The receiving device 20 may have a communication function.

[0033] (Broadcasting system overview) The transmission system shown in Figure 1 can employ broadcasting standards such as ISDB-T (Integrated Services Digital Broadcasting - Terrestrial). For example, in Japan, ISDB-T is used as the broadcasting standard for terrestrial digital television broadcasting, but studies are underway on a next-generation standard for terrestrial digital television broadcasting (advanced terrestrial broadcasting standard). Hereinafter, the current ISDB-T will be referred to as the "current standard" to distinguish it from the next-generation standard.

[0034] When broadcasters operate next-generation broadcasting services, they are required to operate simulcast broadcasting with current broadcasting services. For example, when broadcasters provide next-generation broadcasting services, they will also provide current broadcasting services that are simulcast of the next-generation broadcasting services.

[0035] Simultaneous broadcasting is typically performed by providing the same program at the same time but with different quality levels. For example, the same program may be broadcast in 2K quality video using a current broadcasting service, while in 4K quality video using a next-generation broadcasting service. In this operation, a program with 2K quality video (simulcast program) can be broadcast as simulcast content corresponding to content that is a program with 4K quality video. Hereinafter, the current broadcasting service will also be referred to as 2K broadcasting, since it broadcasts programs with 2K quality video. Furthermore, the next-generation broadcasting service will also be referred to as 4K broadcasting, since it broadcasts programs with 4K quality video.

[0036] In this way, when the next-generation broadcasting service starts, simultaneous broadcasting will be carried out for the time being, so the same program will be broadcast at different video resolutions (4K image quality and 2K image quality). At this time, the receiving device 20 needs to recognize that simultaneous broadcasting is being carried out.

[0037] For example, if the receiving device 20 receives a broadcast signal that includes a simulcast, but is unable to determine that it is a simulcast, the channel list will contain multiple copies of the same program, resulting in multiple copies of the same program being displayed. Since displaying multiple copies of the same program can confuse the user, it is necessary to prevent the channel list from containing the same program.

[0038] Simultaneous broadcasting will be implemented when next-generation broadcasting services are introduced, so the current system has not been standardized with simulcasting in mind, and no descriptors related to simulcasting have been defined.

[0039] Therefore, in the present disclosure, when a new broadcasting service such as a next-generation system is started, a simulcasting descriptor is defined and transmitted from the transmitting device 10 to the receiving device 20, thereby enabling the receiving device 20 to reliably recognize that simulcasting is being carried out. This allows the receiving device 20 to determine whether or not a broadcast signal is a simulcast when it receives it.

[0040] (Structure of Simulcast Descriptor) 4 is a diagram showing an example of the syntax of a simulcast_service_descriptor. Semantics will be explained with reference to FIG. 5 as needed.

[0041] The 8-bit descriptor_tag indicates a tag that identifies the simulcast descriptor. The 8-bit descriptor_length indicates the length of the subsequent field. The 8-bit num_of_service indicates the number of services.

[0042] Within the loop corresponding to the number of services specified by num_of_service, system_type is placed, and according to the value of system_type, service_id, remote_control_key_id, tlv_stream_id, frequency, transmission_mode, guard_interval, URL_length, and URL_byte are placed.

[0043] The 8-bit system_type indicates the simulcasting method. Figure 6 shows an example of system_type. As shown in Figure 6, when simulcasting is carried out using broadcasting method A and broadcasting method B, the value of system_type is "0x00" or "0x01". For example, broadcasting method A and broadcasting method B correspond to the current method and the next-generation method.

[0044] Furthermore, when simulcasting is distributed from a server via the Internet, the value of system_type is "0x02". Note that other simulcasting methods may be specified, in which case a reserved value between "0x03" and "0xff" can be used as system_type.

[0045] The 16-bit service_id indicates an identifier (service ID) for identifying the service. Content with the same service_id value can be considered to be the same content. However, even if the service_id value is the same, the video resolution may differ.

[0046] Alternatively, content with different video resolutions may have different service_id values. In this case, the simulcast descriptor in Figure 4 can indicate the service ID of the same content for each system_type value.

[0047] The 8-bit remote_control_key_id indicates an identifier for identifying the button number on the remote controller to which the service is assigned (remote control button number). This remote control button number is a number assigned to each broadcasting station for the remote controller key, separate from the frequency band channel.

[0048] The 16-bit tlv_stream_id indicates an identifier for identifying a TLV stream. A TLV stream is a sequence of TLV (Type Length Value) packets and is identified by a TLV stream ID. In a TLV stream, TLV packets containing broadcast components and TLV packets containing signaling information are multiplexed.

[0049] The frequency, transmission_mode, and guard_interval are channel selection information. The 2-bit reserved field is a region for future expansion.

[0050] The 16-bit frequency indicates the center frequency. The frequency unit can be the unit corresponding to the terrestrial digital television broadcasting system.

[0051] The 3-bit transmission_mode indicates the transmission mode. Figure 7 shows an example of transmission_mode. As shown in Figure 7, when "000" is specified as the value of transmission_mode, the transmission mode is mode 1, which is 1k FFT. Similarly, when "001", "010", "011", or "100" is specified as the value of transmission_mode, the transmission mode is mode 2 (4k FFT), mode 3 (8k FFT), mode 4 (16k FFT), or mode 5 (32k FFT).

[0052] The 3-bit guard_interval indicates the guard interval. Figure 8 shows an example of guard_interval. As shown in Figure 8, when "000" is specified as the value of guard_interval, the guard interval ratio is 1 / 4. Similarly, when "001", "010", "011", or "100" is specified as the value of guard_interval, the guard interval ratio is 1 / 8, 1 / 16, or 1 / 32,800 / Nfft.

[0053] URL_length and URL_byte specify location information. The 8-bit URL_length indicates the length of the URL_byte field. URL_byte indicates a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) that indicates the location of an information resource on the Internet.

[0054] A broadcast stream including a simulcast descriptor having the above structure is transmitted from the transmitting device 10 and received by the receiving device 20. The receiving device 20 acquires the simulcast descriptor included in the received broadcast stream, and can determine the simulcast by the service_id corresponding to the number of simulcast services specified by num_of_service.

[0055] Here, in addition to the service_id, information capable of identifying a program, such as remote_control_key_id or tlv_stream_id, may be used to determine whether the program is simulcast. That is, the receiving device 20 can determine whether the programs are the same by using at least one identifier of service_id, remote_control_key_id, and tlv_stream_id placed in the simulcast descriptor. In other words, the simulcast descriptor functions as an identifier for identifying a service corresponding to the simulcast program from among one or more services included in the transmission stream that transmits the simulcast program.

[0056] In the simulcast descriptor, for each system_type, it is possible to specify channel selection information such as frequency, transmission_mode, and guard_interval along with an identifier such as service_id. By using this channel selection information, the receiving device 20 can easily select a simulcast channel. Furthermore, even if the receiving device 20 is an in-vehicle receiver or a mobile receiver, and the reception environment changes due to mobile reception, the channel selection information can be used to easily select a simulcast channel. Note that it is not necessary to specify all of frequency, transmission_mode, and guard_interval as channel selection information, and other information may also be specified.

[0057] In the simulcasting descriptor in Fig. 4, if system_type = "0x00", that is, if the simulcasting system is broadcasting system A, service_id, remote_control_key_id, frequency, transmission_mode, and guard_interval are placed. service_id and remote_control_key_id are used to determine simulcasting. frequency, transmission_mode, and guard_interval are simulcasting channel selection information.

[0058] In addition, in the simulcasting descriptor in Fig. 4, if system_type = "0x01", that is, if the simulcasting method is broadcasting method B, service_id, remote_control_key_id, tlv_stream_id, frequency, transmission_mode, and guard_interval are placed. service_id, remote_control_key_id, and tlv_stream_id are used to determine simulcasting. frequency, transmission_mode, and guard_interval are simulcasting channel selection information.

[0059] Furthermore, in the simulcast descriptor in Fig. 4, when system_type = "0x02", that is, when simulcasts are distributed via the Internet, URL_length and URL_byte are placed. URL_length and URL_byte specify a URL indicating the location of an information resource on the Internet as location information. By placing location information in the simulcast descriptor, the receiving device 20 can receive simulcast programs distributed via the Internet.

[0060] In the simulcasting descriptor in Fig. 4, remote_control_key_id and tlv_stream_id are placed as information that can identify a simulcasting program, but it is optional whether or not to place this information. It is also optional whether or not to place channel selection information such as frequency, transmission_mode, guard_interval, etc. Fig. 9 shows an example of the minimum configuration of a simulcasting descriptor.

[0061] In the simulcast descriptor in Fig. 9, service_id is placed when system_type = "0x00" and when system_type = "0x01", and URL_byte according to URL_length is placed when system_type = "0x02".

[0062] (Placement of Simulcast Descriptor) FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the location of the simulcast descriptor.

[0063] The simulcast descriptor is placed in the MH-Broadcaster Information Table (MH-BIT). The MH-Broadcaster Information Table is used to present information about broadcasters present on the network. The MH-Broadcaster Information Table is stored in the M2 section message. The M2 section message is used to transmit the section extension format of the MPEG-2 system.

[0064] In the MH-Broadcaster Information Table, an MH-Broadcaster Name Descriptor describing the name of the broadcaster is placed, but the simulcast descriptor can be placed in the same location as the MH-Broadcaster Name Descriptor.

[0065] The placement location shown in FIG. 10 is an example, and the simulcast descriptor may be placed in another location.

[0066] (Generate channel list) During an initial scan, the receiving device 20 generates a channel list that is a list of channels (programs) of receivable services. In the channel list, service_ids for identifying receivable services are registered.

[0067] The service_id can be arranged in a service description section and transmitted. The receiving device 20 can register the service_id arranged in the service description section transmitted from the transmitting device 10 in a channel list.

[0068] Figure 11 shows an example of the syntax of the service description section (service_description_section). In Figure 11, the 16-bit service_id indicates the service identification. The service_id serves as a label to distinguish this service from other services in the transport stream.

[0069] In the case where a simulcast descriptor is included in a broadcast stream, the receiving device 20 can determine that the broadcast is a simulcast if the service_id placed in the simulcast descriptor is registered in the channel list.

[0070] When using remote_control_key_id as information capable of identifying a program, it is possible to use the remote_control_key_id placed in the TS information descriptor transmitted from the transmitting device 10. The TS information descriptor specifies the button identification of the remote controller assigned to the TS, and indicates the correspondence between the service identification and the transmission layer during hierarchical transmission.

[0071] An example of the syntax of a TS information descriptor (ts_information_descriptor) is shown in Fig. 12. In Fig. 12, the 8-bit remote_control_key_id indicates a recommended value for assigning the TS to a remote controller button number.

[0072] In the receiving device 20, when a simulcast descriptor is included in a broadcast stream, if the remote_control_key_id placed in the simulcast descriptor matches the remote_control_key_id placed in the TS information descriptor, it can be determined that the broadcast is simulcast.

[0073] Generally, the same remote_control_key_id value is specified for broadcast streams between affiliated stations. Therefore, when the remote_control_key_id placed in the simulcast descriptor matches the remote_control_key_id placed in the TS information descriptor, it is possible to determine that the broadcast is simulcast without comparing the service_id values.

[0074] The service description section and the TS information descriptor are defined in, for example, Document 1 below.

[0075] Reference 1: ARIB STD-B10 5.13 Edition, Association of Radio Industries and Businesses

[0076] (Initial scan behavior) Next, the flow of operations during initial scanning in the receiving device 20 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0077] Here, it is assumed that the receiving device 20 is a fixed receiver such as a television receiver. In the receiving device 20, an initial scan is started when a predetermined operation is performed by a user (S101).

[0078] In step S102, the processing unit 202 determines whether or not a simulcast descriptor included in the broadcast stream from the transmission device 10 has been received.

[0079] If it is determined in step S102 that a simulcast descriptor has not been received, the process proceeds to step S103. In step S103, the processing unit 202 registers the program of the frequency band selected by the initial scan in the channel list. At this time, the service_id arranged in the service description section or the like is registered in the channel list as the service_id corresponding to the program.

[0080] When the process of step S103 ends, the process proceeds to step S104. In step S104, the processing unit 202 determines whether or not this is the last frequency band in the initial scan.

[0081] If it is determined in step S104 that the frequency band is not the last one, the process returns to step S102, and the above-described process is repeated. In the initial scan, receivable broadcast signals are scanned in order while changing the selected frequency band in order to generate a channel list that is a list of programs receivable in the area where the receiving device 20 is installed. Then, if it is determined in step S102 that a simulcast descriptor has been received, the process proceeds to step S105.

[0082] For example, since the simulcast descriptor is transmitted in a next-generation broadcast service (4K broadcast), the receiving device 20 receiving the 4K broadcast can acquire the service ID (service_id) and channel selection information of the current broadcast service (2K broadcast) that is simulcast. However, the simulcast descriptor may also be transmitted in the 2K broadcast. This makes it easier to register a channel list in the receiving device 20 receiving the 4K broadcast.

[0083] In step S105, the processing unit 202 determines whether the service_id placed in the simulcast descriptor is registered in the channel list.

[0084] If it is determined in step S105 that the service_id is registered in the channel list, the process proceeds to step S106. In step S106, the processing unit 202 registers programs with high video resolution in the channel list.

[0085] That is, if the service_id placed in the simulcast descriptor is registered in the channel list, it can be determined that the program is a simulcast, and in simulcast, the same program is distributed at different video resolutions. Therefore, among the same programs, the program with the higher video resolution is preferentially registered in the channel list. For example, if the same program is broadcast in 2K quality by a current broadcasting service (2K broadcasting) and in 4K quality by a next-generation broadcasting service (4K broadcasting), the program of the next-generation broadcasting service that distributes the program with higher video resolution is selected and registered in the channel list.

[0086] Fig. 14 shows an example of the syntax of a video component descriptor (Video_Component_Descriptor) as a first example of transmission of video resolution information. In Fig. 14, the 4-bit "video_resolution" indicates the video signal resolution, representing the vertical resolution of the video signal. Example values ​​of "video_resolution" are shown in Fig. 15.

[0087] The video component descriptor is defined in, for example, Document 2 below.

[0088] Reference 2: ARIB STD-B60 Version 1.14, Association of Radio Industries and Businesses

[0089] Fig. 16 shows an example of the syntax of a component descriptor (component_descriptor) as a second example of transmission of video resolution information. In Fig. 16, the 4-bit stream_content indicates the content of the component, and represents the type of stream, such as video, audio, or data. The 8-bit component_type specifies the type of component, such as video, audio, or data. Fig. 17 shows the coding content according to the component content (stream_content) and component type (component_type).

[0090] The component descriptor is defined in, for example, the above-mentioned document 1.

[0091] The processing unit 202 can preferentially select programs with higher resolution video by referring to the video_resolution placed in the video component descriptor and the stream_content and component_type placed in the component descriptor.

[0092] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S105 that the service_id is not registered in the channel list, the process proceeds to step S107. In step S107, the processing unit 202 controls the receiving unit 201 to select a simulcast channel in accordance with the channel selection information in the simulcast descriptor. Then, the processing unit 202 compares the video resolutions of the received simulcast programs and registers the program with the higher video resolution in the channel list (S106).

[0093] When the process of step S106 is completed, the process proceeds to step S104. If it is determined in step S104 that the frequency band is not the last one, the process returns to step S102, and the above-described process is repeated. Then, if it is determined in step S104 that the frequency band is the last one, the series of processes ends.

[0094] The above describes the flow of operations during initial scanning in the receiving device 20. In this initial scanning operation, by receiving a simulcast descriptor, which is a list of simulcasts that broadcast the same program, it is possible to determine that the received broadcast signal is a simulcast.

[0095] Furthermore, during this initial scan, programs with the highest video resolution can be preferentially registered in the channel list based on video resolution information obtained from the video component descriptor, component descriptor, etc. This prevents the same program from being registered multiple times in the channel list, and prevents the same program from being included in multiple channels. At the same time, users can easily watch high-quality programs.

[0096] Here, when the same program is broadcast by a next-generation broadcasting service (4K broadcasting) and a current broadcasting service (2K broadcasting) that is simulcast, the 4K broadcasting and the 2K broadcasting are broadcast in different frequency bands. For example, the 2K broadcasting that broadcasts a program with 2K quality video is broadcast on channel A (Ach), and the 4K broadcasting that broadcasts a program with 4K quality video is broadcast on channel B (Bch), so that the 4K broadcasting and the 2K broadcasting are broadcast in different frequency bands (for example, different channels with 1 channel being 6 MHz).

[0097] As mentioned above, the 2K broadcast, which is a simulcast, may be transmitted via communications such as the Internet. Also, the 4K broadcast and the 2K broadcast do not necessarily need to be transmitted in different frequency bands, and the 4K broadcast and the 2K broadcast may be transmitted in the same frequency band.

[0098] (Operation when selecting a station) Next, the flow of operations performed by the receiving device 20 when selecting a station will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0099] Here, it is assumed that the receiving device 20 is an in-vehicle receiver, and the reception environment changes as the vehicle moves.

[0100] In step S201, the processing unit 202 monitors the broadcast signal received by the receiving unit 201, and determines whether or not the broadcast can be received.

[0101] If it is determined in step S201 that the broadcast can be received, the determination process is repeated. In this case, the receiving device 20 processes the broadcast stream obtained from the received broadcast signal, and outputs video and audio of the content such as a program.

[0102] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S201 that the broadcast cannot be received, the process proceeds to step S202. In step S202, the processing unit 202 determines whether or not a simulcast descriptor has been received.

[0103] If it is determined in step S202 that a simulcast descriptor has been received, the process proceeds to step S203. In step S203, the processing unit 202 controls the receiving unit 201 to select another broadcast (simulcast) in accordance with the channel selection information included in the simulcast descriptor.

[0104] For example, when the receiving device 20, which is an in-vehicle receiver, moves and the reception conditions change, making it impossible to receive the currently selected broadcast, the receiving device 20 can select a simulcast channel based on the channel selection information stored in the simulcast descriptor, thereby allowing the user to continue watching the same program.

[0105] When the process of step S203 is completed, the process returns to step S201, and the above-mentioned series of processes are repeated. Note that, if it is determined in step S202 that the simulcast descriptor has not been received, the process also returns to step S201, and the above-mentioned processes are repeated.

[0106] The above has described the flow of operations when selecting a channel in the receiving device 20. In this operation when selecting a channel, if the reception condition of the currently selected broadcast program becomes poor, a simulcast program (the same program) with better reception conditions can be selected based on the channel selection information included in the simulcast descriptor. In this way, it becomes easy to select a simulcast channel according to the reception conditions, especially when the receiving device 20 is an in-vehicle receiver.

[0107] (Processing flow on the sending and receiving sides) Finally, the flow of processing on the transmitting side and receiving side to which the present disclosure is applied will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0108] First, the processing of steps S301 to S303 performed by the transmitting device 10 will be described.

[0109] In step S301, the generating unit 101 generates a simulcast descriptor. At least a service ID (service identifier) ​​or location information is placed in the simulcast descriptor.

[0110] In step S302, the generator 101 generates a broadcast stream including broadcast components and signaling information, the signaling information including a simulcast descriptor.

[0111] In step S303, the transmitting unit 102 transmits the broadcast stream as a broadcast signal. The broadcast signal from the transmitting device 10 is transmitted from a transmitting antenna installed at a transmitting station. Note that the broadcast signal may be transmitted via a relay station.

[0112] Next, the processing of steps S401 to S403 performed by the receiving device 20 will be described.

[0113] In step S401, the receiving unit 201 receives the broadcast signal transmitted from the transmitting device 10 via an antenna.

[0114] In step S402, the processing unit 202 processes a broadcast stream obtained from a broadcast signal. Here, signaling information and broadcast components are obtained from the broadcast stream. The signaling information includes a simulcast descriptor.

[0115] In step S403, the processing unit 202 performs processing according to the simulcast descriptor. For example, during an initial scan, if the service_id placed in the simulcast descriptor is registered in the channel list, it can be determined that the program indicated by the service_id is a simulcast program. Furthermore, when selecting a channel, if the reception status of the currently selected broadcast program becomes poor, it is possible to select a simulcast program (the same program) with better reception status based on the channel selection information in the simulcast descriptor.

[0116] The above has described the processing flow on the transmitting side and receiving side to which the present disclosure is applied. In the present disclosure, a simulcast descriptor is defined when a new broadcasting service such as a next-generation system is started, so that the receiving device 20 can reliably recognize that simulcast is being carried out.

[0117] <2. Modifications>

[0118] (Other broadcasting systems) In the above description, the current digital television broadcasting standard is ISDB-T and the next-generation standard is the Advanced Terrestrial Broadcasting Standard, but the present disclosure may be applied to combinations of other broadcasting standards, such as ATSC (Advanced Television Systems Committee), ATSC 3.0, DVB-T (Digital Video Broadcasting - Terrestrial), and DVB-T2.

[0119] For example, it can be applied to a case where the current system is ISDB-T and the next-generation system is ATSC 3.0. When applied to ATSC 3.0, signaling information including the simulcast descriptor is transmitted as a service list table or service layer signaling.

[0120] Furthermore, although the above explanation describes a broadcasting method for terrestrial digital television broadcasting, the present disclosure may also be applied to broadcasting methods such as satellite broadcasting using broadcasting satellites (BS: Broadcasting Satellite) and communications satellites (CS: Communications Satellite), and wired broadcasting such as cable television (CATV).

[0121] (Relationship with electronic program guide) The receiving device 20 has a channel list in which programs with higher video resolutions are registered, but an electronic program guide (EPG) transmitted separately may display only programs with higher video resolutions, or may display not only programs with higher video resolutions but also programs with lower video resolutions (the same program with different video resolutions).Whether the former or latter is displayed, if the program selected by the user has the same service ID, the program with the higher video resolution may be selected.

[0122] It is also possible to use a newer broadcasting format instead of a program with a higher video resolution. For example, if there is a current format and a next-generation format, the next-generation format is the newer broadcasting format.

[0123] (Transmission via telecommunications) As described above, simulcast programs can be distributed via the Internet, and receiving device 20 that receives simulcast programs via the Internet can play the received programs by activating a video player, a VoD (Video on Demand) application, etc. Here, video players and VoD applications are downloaded from a server on the Internet and installed, or are pre-installed, and can also be considered non-broadcast applications.

[0124] If the receiving device 20 does not have a video player or a VoD application installed, a screen prompting the user to install the video player or a screen displaying an application store that provides VoD applications and the like can be displayed.

[0125] Furthermore, the receiving device 20 may display information about simulcast programs distributed via the Internet in an electronic program guide (EPG). In other words, the displayed information may be information about VoD distribution services or non-broadcast services.

[0126] (Simultaneous broadcasting selection based on user settings) The receiving device 20 may select a simulcast channel based on a user setting. Specifically, for example, a setting menu for configuring the receiving device 20 may include an item for selecting whether to select a simulcast channel or register a simulcast channel list. The setting menu may also include an item for selecting whether to select or register a next-generation broadcast service or a simulcast broadcast service. By obtaining a user selection using such a setting menu, the receiving device 20 can prevent the forcible selection of a program with poor reception.

[0127] (Video quality) In this specification, "2K image quality" refers to video corresponding to a screen resolution of approximately 1920 x 1080 pixels. "4K image quality" refers to video corresponding to a screen resolution of approximately 3840 x 2160 pixels. In the above explanation, 4K image quality is used to refer to video with a higher video resolution, but it may also refer to video with even higher image quality, such as 8K image quality. "8K image quality" refers to video corresponding to a screen resolution of approximately 7680 x 4320 pixels.

[0128] In the above explanation, it was assumed that the program with the higher video resolution among the same programs is registered in the channel list (S106 in FIG. 13), but video quality is not limited to resolution; other qualities may also be compared. For example, if higher quality video is provided by increasing brightness and color gamut using HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology, or by increasing the number of displayed images (frames) per second, programs corresponding to such higher quality video can be registered in the channel list.

[0129] (Name of descriptor, etc.) Other names may be used for the above-mentioned descriptors, fields, packets, streams, etc. For example, a TLV packet may be called an ALP (ATSC Link-layer Protocol) packet. The difference between these names is a formal difference, and does not result in a difference in the actual content of the target descriptors, etc. In this specification, a system refers to a logical collection of multiple devices.

[0130] (Computer Configuration) The above-described series of processes on the transmitting and receiving sides can be executed by hardware or software. When the series of processes is executed by software, a program constituting the software is installed in a computer. Figure 20 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that executes the above-described series of processes by a program.

[0131] In the computer, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 1001, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 1002, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 1003 are interconnected by a bus 1004. An input / output interface 1005 is further connected to the bus 1004. An input unit 1006, an output unit 1007, a storage unit 1008, a communication unit 1009, and a drive 1010 are connected to the input / output interface 1005.

[0132] The input unit 1006 includes a keyboard, a mouse, a microphone, etc. The output unit 1007 includes a display, a speaker, etc. The storage unit 1008 includes a hard disk, a non-volatile memory, etc. The communication unit 1009 includes a network interface, etc. The drive 1010 drives a removable recording medium 1011 such as a semiconductor memory, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, or a magneto-optical disk.

[0133] In a computer configured as described above, the CPU 1001 loads a program recorded in the ROM 1002 or memory unit 1008 into the RAM 1003 via the input / output interface 1005 and the bus 1004 and executes it, thereby performing the above-mentioned series of processes.

[0134] The program executed by the computer (CPU 1001) can be provided by being recorded on a removable recording medium 1011 such as a package medium, for example. The program can also be provided via a wired or wireless transmission medium such as a local area network, the Internet, or digital satellite broadcasting.

[0135] In a computer, the program can be installed in the storage unit 1008 via the input / output interface 1005 by inserting the removable recording medium 1011 into the drive 1010. The program can also be received by the communication unit 1009 via a wired or wireless transmission medium and installed in the storage unit 1008. Alternatively, the program can be installed in the ROM 1002 or the storage unit 1008 in advance.

[0136] Here, in this specification, the processing performed by a computer according to a program does not necessarily have to be performed chronologically in the order described in the flowchart. In other words, the processing performed by a computer according to a program also includes processing executed in parallel or individually (for example, parallel processing or object-based processing). Furthermore, the program may be processed by one computer (processor), or may be processed in a distributed manner by multiple computers.

[0137] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting, and other effects may also be obtained.

[0138] The present disclosure can also be configured as follows.

[0139] (1) a generating unit that generates a broadcast stream including broadcast components that constitute content and signaling information related to the broadcast components; a transmitter for transmitting the broadcast stream; Equipped with The signaling information includes a descriptor in which a service identifier or location information for identifying simulcast content corresponding to the content is located. Transmitting device. (2) The descriptor is an identifier for identifying a service corresponding to the simulcast content among one or more services included in a transport stream that transmits the simulcast content. The transmitting device according to (1) above. (3) The descriptor contains a button number of a remote controller to which a service corresponding to the simulcast content is assigned. The transmitting device according to (1) or (2). (4) The descriptor includes an identifier for identifying a multiplexed stream including broadcast components and signaling information of the simulcast content. The transmitting device according to any one of (1) to (3). (5) The descriptor further includes channel selection information for selecting the simulcast content. The transmitting device according to any one of (1) to (4). (6) The channel selection information includes information on any one of a center frequency, a transmission mode, and a guard interval. The transmitting device according to (5) above. (7) In the descriptor, the service identifier or the location information and the channel selection information are arranged for each type indicating a simulcast system. The transmitting device according to (5) or (6). (8) The signaling information includes video resolution information regarding the video resolution of the content and the simulcast content. The transmitting device according to any one of (1) to (7). (9) The content and the simulcast content are transmitted in different frequency bands. The transmitting device according to any one of (1) to (8). (10) The transmitting device generating a broadcast stream including broadcast components constituting the content and signaling information relating to the broadcast components, the signaling information including a descriptor in which a service identifier or location information for identifying simulcast content corresponding to the content is placed; Transmitting the broadcast stream Sending method. (11) a receiving unit that receives a broadcast stream including broadcast components that constitute content and signaling information related to the broadcast components; a processing unit for processing the broadcast component based on the signaling information; Equipped with The signaling information includes a descriptor in which a service identifier or location information for identifying simulcast content corresponding to the content is located. Receiving device. (12) The descriptor is an identifier for identifying a service corresponding to the simulcast content among one or more services included in a transport stream that transmits the simulcast content. The receiving device according to (11) above. (13) The descriptor contains a button number of a remote controller to which a service corresponding to the simulcast content is assigned. The receiving device according to (11) or (12). (14) The descriptor includes an identifier for identifying a multiplexed stream including broadcast components and signaling information of the simulcast content. The receiving device according to any one of (11) to (13). (15) the descriptor further includes channel selection information for selecting the simulcast content; The processing unit selects the simulcast content based on the channel selection information. The receiving device according to any one of (11) to (14). (16) The channel selection information includes information on any one of a center frequency, a transmission mode, and a guard interval. The receiving device according to (15) above. (17) In the descriptor, the service identifier or the location information and the channel selection information are arranged for each type indicating a simulcast system. The receiving device according to (15) or (16) above. (18) the signaling information includes video resolution information regarding video resolutions of the content and the simulcast content; The processing unit preferentially selects content with a higher video resolution based on the video resolution information. The receiving device according to any one of (11) to (17). (19) The content and the simulcast content are transmitted in different frequency bands. The receiving device according to any one of (11) to (18). (20) The receiving device according to (13), wherein the processing unit identifies the simulcast content based on a comparison of button numbers of a remote controller to which a service corresponding to the simulcast content is assigned. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 10 transmitting device, 20 receiving device, 30 transmission path, 101 generating unit, 102 transmitting unit, 201 receiving unit, 202 processing unit, 1001 CPU

Claims

1. a transmitting unit that transmits a broadcast stream including signaling information related to broadcast components that constitute the content; the signaling information includes a descriptor in which a service identifier or location information for identifying a service corresponding to the simulcast content among one or more services included in a transport stream transmitting simulcast content corresponding to the content is placed; The descriptor is included in broadcaster information relating to information of the broadcaster Transmitting device.

2. The broadcaster information is a table containing information about broadcasters related to mobile broadcasting services. The transmitting device according to claim 1 .

3. The descriptor contains a button number of a remote controller to which a service corresponding to the simulcast content is assigned. The transmitting device according to claim 1 .

4. The descriptor includes an identifier for identifying a multiplexed stream including broadcast components and signaling information of the simulcast content. The transmitting device according to claim 1 .

5. The descriptor further includes channel selection information for selecting the simulcast content. The transmitting device according to claim 1 .

6. The channel selection information includes information on any one of a center frequency, a transmission mode, and a guard interval. The transmitting device according to claim 5 .

7. In the descriptor, the service identifier or the location information and the channel selection information are arranged for each type indicating a simulcast system. The transmitting device according to claim 5 .

8. The signaling information includes video resolution information regarding the video resolution of the content and the simulcast content. The transmitting device according to claim 1 .

9. The content and the simulcast content are transmitted in different frequency bands. The transmitting device according to claim 1 .

10. The transmitting device transmitting a broadcast stream including signaling information regarding broadcast components that make up the content; the signaling information includes a descriptor in which a service identifier or location information for identifying a service corresponding to the simulcast content among one or more services included in a transport stream transmitting simulcast content corresponding to the content is placed; The descriptor is included in broadcaster information relating to information of the broadcaster Sending method.

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