TRANSMISSION METHOD, TRANSMISSION DEVICE, RECEPTION METHOD, AND RECEPTION DEVICE

Abstract

To make it possible to do a promotion for a non-subscriber to a pay broadcast service more flexibly.SOLUTION: A reception apparatus receives a broadcast content that is provided as a pay broadcast service and transmitted in a scrambled manner; acquires a subscription check application for checking presence of a subscription to the pay broadcast service depending on information indicating presence of the subscription check application, the information being included in control information including information regarding a structure of the broadcast content; and controls an operation of the subscription check application. The present technology is applicable, for example, to a television receiver capable of receiving a digital broadcast signal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 31

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This technology is TRANSMISSION METHOD, TRANSMISSION DEVICE, RECEPTION METHOD, AND RECEPTION DEVICE In particular, it has become possible to promote paid broadcasting services to non-subscribers more flexibly. TRANSMISSION METHOD, TRANSMISSION DEVICE, RECEPTION METHOD, AND RECEPTION DEVICE Regarding. [Background technology]

[0002] In pay-per-view (PPV) and other pay-per-view broadcasting services, promotional services are provided to introduce programs, and non-subscribers who watch the programs are encouraged to sign up for the pay-per-view broadcasting service (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-318798 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the current digital broadcasting in Japan, when a non-contractor selects a pay broadcasting service, a message is displayed indicating that the non-contractor has not yet subscribed, and promotional services are provided only with the non-contractor's consent, in order to promote the pay broadcasting service. This makes it possible to induce non-contractors to subscribe to the pay broadcasting service.

[0005] However, there has been a demand for greater flexibility in promoting paid broadcasting services to those who have not yet signed up for the service.

[0006] The present technology has been developed in light of these circumstances, and makes it possible to more flexibly promote paid broadcasting services to those who have not yet signed up for them. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A receiving device according to a first aspect of the present technology is a receiving device comprising: a receiving unit that receives scrambled and transmitted broadcast content provided as a paid broadcast service; an acquisition unit that acquires a contract confirmation application in accordance with information indicating the presence or absence of a contract confirmation application for confirming the presence or absence of a contract for the paid broadcast service, the information being included in control information including information regarding the composition of the broadcast content; and a control unit that controls the operation of the contract confirmation application.

[0008] The receiving device according to the first aspect of the present technology may be an independent device or an internal block constituting one device. Also, the receiving method according to the first aspect of the present technology is a receiving method corresponding to the receiving device according to the first aspect of the present technology described above.

[0009] In the receiving device and receiving method of the first aspect of the present technology, broadcast content provided as a paid broadcast service and transmitted in a scrambled form is received, and the contract confirmation application is obtained and the operation of the contract confirmation application is controlled according to information indicating the presence or absence of a contract confirmation application for confirming whether or not a contract for the paid broadcast service exists, which is included in control information including information regarding the composition of the broadcast content.

[0010] A transmitting device according to a second aspect of the present technology is a transmitting device including a generating unit that generates control information including information regarding a configuration of broadcast content provided as a paid broadcasting service, the control information including information indicating the presence or absence of a contract confirmation application for confirming the presence or absence of a contract for the paid broadcasting service, and a transmitting unit that transmits the control information transmitted non-scrambled together with the broadcast content transmitted scrambled.

[0011] The transmission device of the second aspect of the present technology may be an independent device or an internal block constituting one device. Also, the transmission method of the second aspect of the present technology is a transmission method corresponding to the transmission device of the second aspect of the present technology described above.

[0012] In a transmitting device and a transmitting method according to a second aspect of the present technology, control information including information regarding the configuration of broadcast content provided as a paid broadcasting service, the control information including information indicating the presence or absence of a contract confirmation application for confirming the presence or absence of a contract for the paid broadcasting service, is generated, and the control information transmitted non-scrambled is transmitted together with the broadcast content transmitted scrambled. Effect of the Invention

[0013] According to the first and second aspects of the present technology, it is possible to more flexibly promote paid broadcasting services to those who have not yet signed up for the service.

[0014] Note that the effects described herein are not necessarily limited to those described herein, and may be any of the effects described in this disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a protocol stack of a broadcasting system that adopts the MMT method. [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of a TLV packet for transmitting timed media data. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of a TLV packet for transmitting non-timed media data. [Figure 4] A diagram showing the structure of an MMTP payload. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the structure of an MMTP packet. [Figure 6] A diagram showing the configuration of TLV-SI. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the ID system of a broadcasting system that adopts the MMT method. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of MMT-SI. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the structure of a PA message. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the structure of an M2 section message. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an MPT. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of location information. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of data transmission related information. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of a data directory management table. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of a data asset management table. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of a data content management table. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of application transmission. [Figure 18] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an embodiment of a broadcast communication system to which the present technology is applied. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram illustrating a specific process flow in the receiving device. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a conventional promotion service. [Figure 21] 1 is a diagram for explaining a promotion service to which the present technology is applied in a case where a single service is provided. FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an API for contract confirmation. [Figure 23] FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of the transition of the application in FIG. 21. [Figure 24] 1 is a diagram for explaining a promotion service to which the present technology is applied in a case where multiple services are provided. FIG. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an example of the transition of the application in FIG. 24. [Figure 26] A diagram showing an example of the syntax of an application service descriptor. [Figure 27] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the syntax of an access control descriptor. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the configuration of a transmitting device. [Figure 29] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a receiving device. [Diagram 30] 11 is a flowchart illustrating a transmission process. [Diagram 31] 11 is a flowchart illustrating a channel selection process. [Diagram 32] 13 is a flowchart illustrating a fee-related application process. [Diagram 33] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the configuration of a computer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to the drawings. The description will be given in the following order.

[0017] 1. Overview of the MMT Method 2. System Configuration 3.Operation example 4. Syntax Examples 5. Configuration of each device 6. Processing flow executed by each device 7. Variations 8. Computer Configuration

[0018] <1. Overview of the MMT system>

[0019] The media transport method widely used in current broadcasting systems is the MPEG2-TS (Moving Picture Experts Group-2 Transport Stream) method, but the MMT (MPEG Media Transport) method is specified as a media transport method assuming the introduction of integrated broadcasting and communication services. Details of the MMT media transport method are described in the following Non-Patent Document 1.

[0020] Non-patent document 1: ARIB STD-B60 Version 1.1, Association of Radio Industries and Businesses

[0021] (Protocol Stack) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a protocol stack of a broadcasting system that employs the MMT method.

[0022] In the protocol stack in Figure 1, the lowest layer is the physical layer (PHY). In the MMT method, some data may be transmitted via communication, not just via broadcasting. When transmitting via broadcasting, the physical layer corresponds to the frequency band assigned to each physical channel.

[0023] The layers above the physical layer are the TLV (Type Length Value) layer and the UDP / IP (User Datagram Protocol / Internet Protocol) layer. The MMT method is also used as the media transport layer to provide a function for converting the video, audio, and other components that make up broadcast content into a format suitable for transmission and use.

[0024] In the MMT method, video data encoded using HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) and audio data encoded using AAC (Advanced Audio Coding) are converted into MFU / MPU (Media Fragment Unit / Media Processing Unit) format, loaded onto the MMTP (MMT Protocol) payload, packetized into MMTP packets, and transmitted in IP packets.

[0025] In addition, subtitles and application data related to broadcast content are also formatted in MFU / MPU format, placed in the MMTP payload, packetized as MMTP packets, and transmitted in IP packets. The subtitles are written in the Timed Text Markup Language (TTML) format, and the application is written in the HyperText Markup Language 5 (HTML5) format.

[0026] The IP packet thus constructed is transmitted in the form of a TLV packet. Here, one IP packet or one IP packet with a compressed header is transmitted in one TLV packet. In addition to the media data, control information is also transmitted.

[0027] The control information includes TLV-SI, which is related to the TLV multiplexing method for multiplexing IP packets, and MMT-SI, which is related to the MMT media transport method. In other words, TLV-SI is control information related to multiplexing IP packets, and provides information for channel selection and information on the correspondence between services and IP addresses. MMT-SI is control information that indicates the configuration of broadcast content, etc. MMT-SI is in the MMT control message format, loaded onto the MMTP payload, packetized as an MMTP packet, and transmitted in an IP packet.

[0028] In addition, in broadcasting systems, NTP (Network Time Protocol) is transmitted as time information for providing absolute time.

[0029] (TLV packet structure) FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the structure of a TLV packet for transmitting timed media data such as video and audio among media data.

[0030] In Fig. 2, the MPU is the processing unit for processing timed media data such as video and audio. The MPU includes one or more access units, and is a unit capable of performing video and audio decoding processing by itself. The size of the MPU is arbitrary, and for video data (Video ES) encoded using inter-frame prediction, the MPU must be in GOP (Group Of Picture) units. In the MPU, MFUs can be configured in NAL (Network Abstraction Layer) unit or access unit units.

[0031] The MMTP payload is composed of MPUs and MFUs for each GOP. In Fig. 2, one MMTP payload is composed of control information such as AUD (Access Unit Delimiter), SPS (Sequence Parameter Set), PPS (Picture Parameter Set), and SEIs (Supplemental Enhancement Information) that make up a GOP. In addition, multiple MMTP payloads are composed by extracting slices that make up each picture that makes up a GOP according to a specified data size. An MMT payload header is added to the beginning of each MMTP payload.

[0032] The MMTP payload is transmitted in one MMTP packet. An MMT packet header is added to the beginning of each MMTP packet. In addition to video and audio data, the MMTP payload contains MMT-SI as control information. In Figure 2, "V" stands for video and "A" stands for audio. Figure 4 shows the detailed structure of the MMTP payload. Figure 5 shows the detailed structure of the MMTP packet.

[0033] An MMTP packet is transmitted in one TLV packet. In addition to TLV packets containing video, audio, and MMT-SI, TLV packets containing TLV-SI as control information are generated. The former TLV packet has a TLV header, IP header, and UDP header added to the beginning, while the latter TLV packet has only a TLV header added to the beginning.

[0034] The TLV packet generated in this manner is then sent out after being subjected to transmission line coding, modulation, etc.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of a TLV packet for transmitting non-timed media data such as a file-format application among media data.

[0036] In Fig. 3, in processing non-timed media data such as file-format applications, each file corresponds to an MPU. That is, an MPU is a file unit. Also, an MPU can configure an MFU, which is a unit smaller than an MPU.

[0037] The MMT payload is composed of the MPU and MFU. In Fig. 3, one MMTP payload is composed of file F1. In addition, file F2 is divided into file F2-1 and file F2-2 according to a predetermined data size, and two MMTP payloads are composed according to the divided files F2-1 and F2-2. An MMT payload header is added to the beginning of each MMTP payload.

[0038] The MMTP payload is transmitted in one MMTP packet. An MMT packet header is added to the beginning of each MMTP packet. Figure 4 shows the structure of the MMTP payload. FIG. 5 also shows the structure of an MMTP packet.

[0039] An MMTP packet is transmitted in one TLV packet. A TLV header, an IP header, and a UDP header are added to the beginning of the TLV packet in which the file is placed.

[0040] The TLV packets generated in this manner are multiplexed with TLV packets containing video data, audio data, control information, etc., and are then sent out after undergoing transmission line coding, modulation, etc.

[0041] (TLV-SI configuration) FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of a TLV-SI.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 6, a TLV-Network Information Table (TLV-NIT) and an Address Map Table (AMT) are defined as TLV-SI tables.

[0043] The TLV-NIT includes information on the transmission path, such as the modulation frequency, and information for associating services with each other in transmission by TLV packets. In the TLV-NIT, a TLV stream loop is placed for a network ID (network_id). Each TLV stream loop is identified by a TLV stream ID (TLV_stream_id), and channel selection information and a service ID (service_id) are placed in the loop. Note that FIG. 7 shows an ID system including the network ID, TLV stream ID, and service ID.

[0044] The AMT includes mapping information for associating a service ID that identifies each service with an IP address. This mapping information associates a service ID placed in the TLV stream loop of the TLV-NIT with an IP address, and allows connection to each service entry such as a PA message.

[0045] (MMT-SI configuration) FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of MMT-SI.

[0046] As shown in Figure 8, MMT-SI consists of three hierarchical layers: messages that store tables and descriptors, tables that have elements and attributes that indicate specific information, and descriptors that describe more detailed information.

[0047] A message can store one or more tables depending on its type. Messages are stored in the MMTP payload and transmitted using MMTP packets. There are PA messages, M2 section messages, CA messages, and M2 short section messages.

[0048] The PA message is used to transmit various tables. For example, the PA message includes an MMT package table (MPT), a package list table (PLT), and a layout configuration table (LCT). Note that FIG. 9 shows the configuration of the PA message.

[0049] The M2 section message is used to transmit the section extended format of the MPEG2 system. The structure of the M2 section message is shown in Figure 10. The CA message is used to transmit a table used to identify the conditional access system (CAS: Conditional Access System). The M2 short section message is used to transmit the section short format of the MPEG2 system.

[0050] (MPT configuration) The MPT includes information constituting a package, such as a list of assets and the locations of the assets on the network. Various tables can be arranged in the MPT. Fig. 11 shows the configuration of the MPT. Fig. 12 shows the configuration of location information corresponding to MMT_general_location_info() of the MPT in Fig. 11. The MPT is sometimes referred to as an MP table.

[0051] (Transmission of application) FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the structure of the data transmission related information.

[0052] 13, the broadcast stream transmits a stream of timed media data such as video and audio, and a stream of non-timed media data such as data (data broadcasting). Note that the data (data broadcasting) stream transmits an application.

[0053] Furthermore, in the broadcast stream, a control information (signaling) stream is transmitted. This control information stream carries, for example, PA messages, M2 section messages, and data transmission messages (DT-Mes).

[0054] The PA message stores the MPT, etc. Also, the M2 section message stores the MH-Application Information Table (MH-AIT), etc. The MH-AIT includes all information related to the application and information such as the startup state requested by the application.

[0055] The data transmission message (DT-Mes) is a message that stores tables related to data transmission, including a data directory management table (DDMT), a data asset management table (DAMT), and a data content configuration table (DCCT).

[0056] The Data Directory Management Table (DDMT) provides a directory structure for files that make up an application in order to separate the file structure of the application from the structure for file transmission. Figure 14 shows the structure of the Data Directory Management Table (DDMT).

[0057] The Data Asset Management Table (DAMT) provides the MPU configuration in the asset and the version for each MPU. Figure 15 shows the configuration of the Data Asset Management Table (DAMT).

[0058] The Data Content Management Table (DCCT) provides configuration information of files as data contents to realize flexible and effective cache control. It shows which files or directories are related and which presentation units are linked to each other for each presentation unit (PU) in the data contents. Figure 16 shows the configuration of the Data Content Management Table (DCCT).

[0059] FIG. 17 shows a specific example of application transmission managed by a data directory management table (DDMT), a data asset management table (DAMT), and a data content management table (DCCT).

[0060] In Fig. 17, HTML files, image files, etc. constituting an HTML5 format application shown in the directory structure are transmitted as items in MPU units for each data asset according to the MMT method. For example, when an application is started or when an application transitions to another application, the HTML files, image files, etc. constituting the target application are acquired. Note that the application may also be acquired from the server 30 via the Internet 90.

[0061] <2. System configuration>

[0062] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a configuration of an embodiment of a broadcast communication system to which the present technology is applied.

[0063] 18, the broadcast communication system 1 includes a transmitting device 10, a receiving device 20, and a server 30. In addition, in FIG. 18, the receiving device 20 and the server 30 are connected to each other via the Internet 90.

[0064] The transmitting device 10 transmits broadcast content (hereinafter referred to as paid content) provided as a pay broadcast service (paid service) such as PPV, by a digital broadcast signal compatible with the MMT system via a transmission path 80. The transmitting device 10 can also distribute an application (hereinafter referred to as a pay-related application) that operates in association with the pay content by data broadcasting.

[0065] In addition, the transmitting device 10 transmits to the receiving device 20 an EMM (Entitlement Management Message) as related information (individual message) for the identification unit of the receiving device 20, and an ECM (Entitlement Control Message) as related information (common message) common to each receiving device 20.

[0066] An EMM is composed of an encrypted part and a non-encrypted part. In an EMM, for example, the encrypted part is encrypted using a device key (Kd), and a work key (Kw) and the like are placed therein. Also, an ECM is composed of an encrypted part and a non-encrypted part. In an ECM, for example, the encrypted part is encrypted using a work key (Kw), and a scramble key (Ks) and the like are placed therein.

[0067] The paid content may be, for example, ultra-high definition content, such as 4K or 8K. The paid content is scrambled (encrypted) using a scrambling key (Ks) before being transmitted.

[0068] In addition, the paid related applications include, for example, a contract confirmation application (Entry Application) for confirming whether or not a contract for a paid service has been signed, a promotion application (Promotion Application) for introducing paid content (paid service), and a program related application (Program Related Application) that runs in conjunction with descrambled paid content.

[0069] The receiving device 20 is, for example, a television receiver capable of receiving digital broadcast signals compatible with the MMT system, and is placed in the user's home. When the user has subscribed to a paid service, the receiving device 20 can receive a digital broadcast signal transmitted from the transmitting device 10 via the transmission path 80 and play paid content. The receiving device 20 can also receive and execute a paid-related application distributed by data broadcasting from the transmitting device 10 via the transmission path 80.

[0070] Furthermore, the receiving device 20 acquires the EMM and ECM transmitted from the transmitting device 10, and then decrypts the EMM using the device key (Kd) to acquire a work key (Kw). Also, the receiving device 20 acquires the scrambling key (Ks) by decrypting the ECM using the work key (Kw). The receiving device 20 can descramble the pay content by using this scrambling key (Ks).

[0071] The server 30 executes various processes in response to a request from the receiving device 20 via the Internet 90. For example, the server 30 can distribute a paid-related application via the Internet 90 in response to a request from the receiving device 20. In this case, the receiving device 20 receives the paid-related application distributed from the server 30 via the Internet 90 and executes it.

[0072] Also, for example, the server 30 can perform processing related to licenses and billing for paid services (paid content) such as PPV. In this case, the server 30 distributes licenses for paid services in response to a request from the receiving device 20. Also, the server 30 performs billing and billing processing for paid content that is instructed to be purchased in response to a request from the receiving device 20.

[0073] In FIG. 18, for convenience of explanation, it has been described that the server 30 executes all processes such as application distribution process, license distribution process for paid services, and billing and settlement process. However, the servers may be divided according to function, and for example, an application server, a license server, and a billing and settlement server may be provided separately.

[0074] Also, in FIG. 18, for convenience of explanation, an example is shown in which one transmitting device 10 and one receiving device 20 are provided, but, for example, multiple transmitting devices 10 may be provided for each broadcasting company (paid service provider), and multiple receiving devices 20 may be provided for each user.

[0075] (Processing flow of the receiving device) FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram illustrating a specific process flow in the receiving device 20 receiving the digital broadcast signal transmitted from the transmitting device 10. As shown in FIG.

[0076] In Fig. 19, the upper side of the figure represents the flow of data transmitted (transmitted) from the transmitting device 10, and the lower side of the figure represents the flow of processing in the receiving device 20 that processes the data. In Fig. 19, the direction of time is from the left to the right in the figure.

[0077] 19, a transmitting device 10 transmits (transmits) broadcast waves (RF Channel) of digital broadcasting that employs the MMT method. In these broadcast waves, components constituting paid content provided as a paid service and streams of control information such as MMT-SI and TLV-SI are transmitted in a TLV stream.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 19, in the receiving device 20, the TLV-NIT and AMT are obtained from the TLV packets transmitted in the TLV stream by an initial scanning process or the like, and are recorded in a memory such as an NVRAM (S11).

[0079] The receiving device 20 can obtain tables such as the MH event information table (MH-EIT), the MH service description table (MH-SDT), the MH broadcaster information table (MH-BIT), and the MH common data table (MH-CDT) transmitted in the TLV stream (S12). These tables are associated with the TLV-NIT by the service ID (S13).

[0080] For example, when a user performs a service selection operation, the receiving device 20 reads out the selection information (TLV-NIT, AMT) from the memory and acquires an IP address corresponding to the service ID of the selected service (S14).Then, the receiving device 20 can acquire the MMT-SI from the MMTP packet transmitted in the TLV stream according to the IP address of the AMT (S15).Here, the MPT transmitted as a PA message is acquired (S16).

[0081] In the MPT, a packet ID for acquiring the component is set as location information when the component stream is transmitted by broadcasting. The receiving device 20 can acquire the video data and audio data by extracting the MMTP packet transmitted in the TLV stream according to the packet ID set in the location information of the MPT (S17, S18).

[0082] Then, in the receiving device 20, a buffering process is performed by temporarily storing the video data and audio data in a buffer, and then a rendering process is performed, thereby outputting (playing back) the video and audio of the paid content provided as the selected service. However, in order for the receiving device 20 to play back the pay content, the user needs to subscribe to the pay service.

[0083] In addition, since time stamp information is placed in the MPT, it is possible to calculate the decode time stamp (DTS) and the presentation time stamp (PTS) (S20).

[0084] <3. Operation example>

[0085] Next, a specific operation example of a paid service provided by the broadcast communication system 1 of Fig. 18 will be described. To make the explanation easier to understand, a conventional promotion service will be described with reference to Fig. 20 to clarify its problems, and then a promotion service to which the present technology is applied will be described with reference to Figs. 21 to 25.

[0086] (Traditional promotional services) Fig. 20 is a diagram for explaining a conventional promotion service. Fig. 20 shows a broadcast stream transmitted from a transmitting device 10 to a receiving device 20, and the MPEG2-TS format is used as the media transport format.

[0087] 20, the broadcast stream transmitted includes a pay service stream assigned with a service ID "A" and a free promotional service stream assigned with a service ID "B." The broadcast stream also transmits a control information (signaling) stream including a Service Description Table (SDT) in which service level information is described.

[0088] Also, in Fig. 20, the video, audio, and data (data broadcast) streams as components constituting the paid service are scrambled (encrypted). That is, the scrambled video, audio, and data constitute the paid content, which can be viewed only by users who have subscribed to the paid service. However, as indicated by the dotted line in the figure, in the paid service, it is optional whether or not to transmit a stream of data (data broadcast) such as an application.

[0089] On the other hand, the video, audio, and data (data broadcasting) streams that constitute the free promotion service are non-scrambled (unencrypted) streams. However, as indicated by the dotted line in the figure, in the free promotion service, it is optional whether or not to transmit video and audio streams. In other words, when promotion is carried out by data broadcasting, only the data stream is transmitted, but when preview video and audio are provided, the video and audio streams are transmitted.

[0090] Here, when a user who has not subscribed to a paid service selects a paid service on the receiving device 20, a message is displayed to the effect that the paid service has not been subscribed to, and a message is displayed encouraging the user to switch to a free promotional service. If the non-contracted user agrees to switch to the free promotion service, the free promotion service will be provided.

[0091] At this time, the SDT transmitted as control information in the broadcast stream contains a link descriptor (Link_Desc) for specifying the free promotional service to which the paid service will be switched and the message to be displayed when the switch is made, and the receiving device 20 receives the SDT containing this link information.

[0092] In the receiving device 20, the resident application displays a message prompting the user to switch to the free promotion service based on the link information included in the SDT. If the user who has not yet signed up agrees to switch to the free promotion service, the resident application switches the target service from the paid service to the free promotion service (S31 in FIG. 20).

[0093] As a result, for example, messages and images of free promotional services by data broadcasting are displayed on the receiving device 20. Then, if an uncontracted user feels that he or she wants to view a paid service after viewing the promotion, the uncontracted user can view the paid service by contacting the paid service provider, for example, by telephone, and completing the subscription procedure for the paid service.

[0094] In this way, conventional promotional services make it possible to guide non-contract users to free promotional services. However, the display and switching processes performed by resident applications are special processes, and manufacturers of receiving device 20 have a demand to guide users to free promotional services without performing such special processes in receiving device 20.

[0095] In addition, in the conventional promotion service, when a non-contract user selects a paid service, the paid service is simply switched to a free promotion service, so there was a demand from the paid service provider to provide a free promotion service with more flexibility. Furthermore, it is necessary to provide a paid service and a free promotion service as separate services, which may result in operational constraints.

[0096] Next, we will explain promotional services that apply the present technology to meet such requirements. Here, we will explain promotional services in which a paid service provider provides a single service, and promotional services in which a paid service provider provides multiple services.

[0097] (Promotional services for a single service) First, a promotion service in which a paid service provider provides a single service will be described with reference to Figs.

[0098] Fig. 21 is a diagram for explaining a promotion service to which the present technology is applied when a single service is provided. Fig. 21 illustrates a broadcast stream transmitted from a transmitting device 10 to a receiving device 20, and the MMT method is used as the media transport method.

[0099] 21, a pay service stream to which a service ID "A" is assigned is transmitted in the broadcast stream. This pay service stream includes a promotional service stream.

[0100] In other words, the stream of a paid service includes, as components that make up the paid service, scrambled (encrypted) video, audio, and data (data broadcasting) streams, as well as non-scrambled (unencrypted) video, audio, and data (data broadcasting) streams.

[0101] The scrambled video, audio, and data constitute paid content, which can be viewed only by users who have subscribed to the paid service. However, as indicated by the dotted line in the figure, it is optional whether or not to transmit a stream of data (data broadcasting) such as an application among the scrambled streams. Furthermore, the non-scrambled video, audio, and data are transmitted to provide promotional services. However, as indicated by the dotted line in the figure, it is optional whether or not to transmit a video or audio stream among the non-scrambled streams.

[0102] The pay service stream also includes an MMT-SI stream for transmitting control information for the pay service. The MMT-SI stream is a non-scrambled (non-encrypted) stream.

[0103] When a user selects a paid service in the receiving device 20, the MPT transmitted as a PA message in the MMT-SI stream is acquired. In the MPT, an application service descriptor (App_Service_Desc) and an access control descriptor (Access_Control_Desc) are arranged.

[0104] The application service descriptor is a descriptor for describing information related to an application. The application service descriptor describes information indicating the source of the MH application information table (MH-AIT) and information indicating whether a data transmission message (DT-Mes) is being transmitted.

[0105] The application service descriptor is placed as necessary. The detailed structure of the application service descriptor will be described later with reference to the syntax in FIG.

[0106] The access control descriptor is a descriptor for describing information related to a conditional access system (CAS). In the access control descriptor, an application startup flag (app_initiative_flag) is described. This application startup flag is information indicating the presence or absence of a contract confirmation application. In other words, the application startup flag makes it possible to recognize whether or not a promotional service to which the present technology is applied is supported by a fee-related application transmitted by non-scrambled data (data broadcasting).

[0107] The access control descriptor is placed only when the components constituting the service are scrambled. The detailed structure of the access control descriptor will be described later with reference to the syntax in FIG.

[0108] When an access control descriptor is placed in the MPT, the receiving device 20 checks the application start flag described in the access control descriptor. When the application start flag indicates that a contract confirmation application exists, the receiving device 20 acquires the MH application information table (MH-AIT) transmitted as an M2 section message in the MMT-SI stream according to information (AIT_URL) indicating the acquisition destination of the MH application information table (MH-AIT) described in the application service descriptor (S41).

[0109] The receiving device 20 also acquires management tables transmitted as data transmission messages (DT-Mes) in the MMT-SI stream in accordance with the application URL (App_URL) described in the MH application information table (MH-AIT) (S42). Here, the data directory management table (DDMT), data asset management table (DAMT), and data content management table (DCCT) are acquired as the management tables.

[0110] The receiving device 20 acquires the contract confirmation application A1 transmitted in the stream of non-scrambled data (data broadcasting) according to the contents of the management tables (DDMT, DAMT, DCCT) (S43). The contract confirmation application A1 can execute an API (hereinafter referred to as an API (Application Programming Interface) for contract confirmation) for acquiring information on whether the currently selected paid service can be played.

[0111] 22, the contract confirmation API is defined as getContractStatus, and returns a return value of "0" if the user has not subscribed to the currently selected paid service, and returns a return value of "1" if the user has subscribed to the currently selected paid service. Therefore, the contract confirmation application A1 can execute the contract confirmation API to determine whether the currently selected paid service can be played.

[0112] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 21, when the return value of the contract confirmation API executed by the contract confirmation application A1 is "0", that is, when no contract for a paid service has been made, the receiving device 20 acquires the promotion application A2 transmitted in a stream of non-scrambled data (data broadcast) (S44). As a result, a transition is made from the contract confirmation application A1 to the promotion application A2, and messages and images of the free promotion service are provided by the promotion application A2.

[0113] On the other hand, when the return value of the contract confirmation API executed by the contract confirmation application A1 is "1", that is, when a contract for a paid service has been made, the receiving device 20 acquires the linked application A3 transmitted in a stream of scrambled data (data broadcast) (S45). As a result, a transition is made from the contract confirmation application A1 to the linked application A3, and the linked application A3 is executed in conjunction with the paid content.

[0114] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 23, depending on the return value of the contract confirmation API, if a paid service has not been subscribed to, the contract confirmation application A1 transitions to a promotion application A2 (S44), and if a paid service has been subscribed to, the contract confirmation application A1 transitions to a linked application A3 (S45).

[0115] In the receiving device 20, when the contract confirmation application A1 transitions to the promotion application A2, messages and images of the free promotion service are displayed. Then, when a non-contracted user who has viewed the promotion performs a contract procedure for a paid service, contract processing (e.g., processing related to a license or billing settlement) is performed, and the paid content is descrambled in the receiving device 20, making it possible to view the content. After the contract for the paid service is made, it is also possible to transition from the promotion application A2 to the linked application A3, and to execute the linked application A3 in conjunction with the paid content (S46).

[0116] In addition, in the receiving device 20, when a transition is made from the contract confirmation application A1 to the linked application A3, the scrambled pay content is descrambled, the pay content is played, and the linked application A3 is executed in conjunction with the pay content.

[0117] As described above, in a promotional service to which the present technology is applied when a paid service provider provides a single service, the contract confirmation application A1 executes a contract confirmation API and executes a promotion application A2 or a linked application A3 depending on the confirmation results.

[0118] Therefore, unlike conventional promotional services, there is no need for a resident application in the receiving device 20 to perform special processing such as display or switching to provide a free promotional service, thereby meeting the requirements of the manufacturer of the receiving device 20.

[0119] Also, unlike conventional promotion services, the system does not simply switch from a paid service to a free promotion service, but executes the promotion application A2 and the linked application A3 according to the result of the confirmation by the contract confirmation application A1, thereby providing a free promotion service with a higher degree of freedom, thereby satisfying the requirements of the paid service provider. Furthermore, since the paid service and the promotion service are provided as the same service, operational restrictions due to providing them as separate services can be avoided.

[0120] (Promotional services across multiple services) Next, a promotion service in the case where a paid service provider provides a plurality of services will be described with reference to Figs.

[0121] Fig. 24 is a diagram for explaining a promotion service to which the present technology is applied when a plurality of services are provided. Fig. 24 illustrates a broadcast stream transmitted from a transmitting device 10 to a receiving device 20, and the MMT method is used as the media transport method.

[0122] In Fig. 24, the broadcast stream transmits a stream of paid service 1 assigned with a service ID of "A" and a stream of paid service 2 assigned with a service ID of "B". The broadcast stream also transmits a stream of assets and MMT-SI (hereinafter referred to as a common stream) that is common to paid service 1 and paid service 2. In other words, the broadcast stream in Fig. 24 corresponds to the streams of paid services 1 and 2 provided by, for example, a paid service provider having two channels.

[0123] The stream of paid service 1 includes streams of scrambled (encrypted) video, audio, and data (data broadcasting) as components that make up paid service 1. In other words, paid content 1 is made up of scrambled video, audio, and data, and can be viewed only by users who have subscribed to paid service 1. However, as indicated by the dotted line in the figure, paid service 1 is optional as to whether or not to transmit a stream of data (data broadcasting) such as an application.

[0124] Furthermore, the stream of paid service 1 includes an MMT-SI stream for transmitting control information for paid service 1. The MMT-SI stream is a non-scrambled (non-encrypted) stream.

[0125] The stream of paid service 2 includes streams of scrambled (encrypted) video, audio, and data (data broadcasting) as components constituting paid service 2. In other words, paid content 2 is made up of scrambled video, audio, and data, and can be viewed only by users who have subscribed to paid service 2. However, as indicated by the dotted line in the figure, in paid service 2, it is optional whether or not to transmit a stream of data (data broadcasting) such as an application.

[0126] Furthermore, the stream of paid service 2 includes an MMT-SI stream for transmitting control information for paid service 2. The MMT-SI stream is a non-scrambled stream.

[0127] The common stream includes unscrambled data (data broadcast) and a stream of the MH application information table (MH-AIT).

[0128] Here, when a user selects paid service 1 in receiving device 20, an MPT transmitted as a PA message in the stream of MMT-SI of paid service 1 is acquired. In the MPT, an application service descriptor (App_Service_Desc) and an access control descriptor (Access_Control_Desc) are arranged.

[0129] The receiving device 20 checks the application startup flag (app_initiative_flag) described in the access control descriptor of the MPT. If the application startup flag indicates that a contract confirmation application exists, the receiving device 20 acquires the MH application information table (MH-AIT) transmitted as an M2 section message in the common stream according to information (AIT_URL) indicating the acquisition destination of the MH application information table (MH-AIT) described in the application service descriptor (S51).

[0130] The receiving device 20 also acquires the management table (DDMT, DAMT, DCCT) transmitted as a data transmission message (DT-Mes) in the MH-AIT stream according to the application URL (App_URL) described in the MH application information table (MH-AIT) (S52). The receiving device 20 acquires the contract confirmation application A1 transmitted in the non-scrambled data stream in the common stream according to the contents of the management table (DDMT, DAMT, DCCT) (S53).

[0131] When the return value of the contract confirmation API executed by the contract confirmation application A1 is "0", that is, when a contract for the paid service 1 has not been made, the receiving device 20 acquires the promotion application A2 transmitted in the stream of non-scrambled data (data broadcasting) in the common stream (S54). As a result, the contract confirmation application A1 transitions to the promotion application A2, and the promotion application A2 provides messages and images of the free promotion service.

[0132] On the other hand, when the return value of the contract confirmation API executed by the contract confirmation application A1 is "1", that is, when a contract for paid service 1 has been made, the receiving device 20 acquires the linked application A3 transmitted as a stream of scrambled data (data broadcast) in the stream of paid service 1 (S55). As a result, a transition is made from the contract confirmation application A1 to the linked application A3, and the linked application A3 is executed in conjunction with the paid content 1.

[0133] 24, the stream of paid service 2 is transmitted in the broadcast stream, and when paid service 2 is selected in receiving device 20, the application start flag of the access control descriptor of the MPT is checked, as in the case of selecting paid service 1. Then, in receiving device 20, when the application start flag indicates that a contract confirmation application exists, the MH application information table (MH-AIT) and management tables (DDMT, DAMT, DCCT) transmitted in the common stream are acquired (S61, S62), and further, contract confirmation application A1 is acquired (S63).

[0134] Then, in the receiving device 20, when the return value of the contract confirmation API executed by the contract confirmation application A1 is "0", that is, when a contract for the paid service 2 has not been made, the promotion application A2 transmitted as a stream of non-scrambled data (data broadcasting) in the common stream is acquired (S64). In this case, in the receiving device 20, the promotion application A2 provides messages, images, and the like of a free promotional service for the paid service 2.

[0135] On the other hand, in the receiving device 20, when the return value of the contract confirmation API executed by the contract confirmation application A1 is "1", that is, when a contract for paid service 2 has been made, the linked application A4 transmitted as a stream of scrambled data (data broadcast) in the stream of paid service 2 is acquired (S65). In this case, in the receiving device 20, the linked application A4 is executed in conjunction with the paid content 2.

[0136] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 25, when selecting paid service 1, the contract confirmation application A1 transitions to the promotion application A2 if the user has not subscribed to paid service 1 (S54) depending on the return value of the contract confirmation API, and transitions to the linked application A3 if the user has subscribed to paid service 1 (S55).

[0137] In the receiving device 20, when the contract confirmation application A1 transitions to the promotion application A2, messages and images of the free promotion service are displayed. Then, when a non-contracted user who has viewed the promotion performs a contract procedure for the paid service 1, contract processing (e.g., processing related to license and billing settlement) is performed, and the paid content 1 is descrambled in the receiving device 20, making it possible to view the content. After the contract for the paid service 1 is made, it is also possible to transition from the promotion application A2 to the linked application A3 and execute the linked application A3 in conjunction with the paid content 1 (S56).

[0138] In addition, in the receiving device 20, when a transition is made from the contract confirmation application A1 to the linked application A3, the scrambled pay content 1 is descrambled, the pay content 1 is played, and the linked application A3 is executed in conjunction with the pay content 1.

[0139] On the other hand, when selecting paid service 2, the contract confirmation application A1 transitions to the promotion application A2 if the user has not subscribed to paid service 2 (S64) depending on the return value of the contract confirmation API, and transitions to the linked application A4 if the user has subscribed to paid service 2 (S65).

[0140] In the receiving device 20, when the contract confirmation application A1 transitions to the promotion application A2, messages and images of the free promotion service are displayed. Then, when a non-contracted user who has viewed the promotion performs a contract procedure for the paid service 2, contract processing (e.g., processing related to license and billing settlement) is performed, and the paid content 2 is descrambled in the receiving device 20, making it possible to view the content. After the contract for the paid service 2 is made, it is also possible to transition from the promotion application A2 to the linked application A4, and to execute the linked application A4 in conjunction with the paid content 2 (S66).

[0141] In addition, in the receiving device 20, when a transition is made from the contract confirmation application A1 to the linked application A4, the scrambled pay content 2 is descrambled, the pay content 2 is played, and the linked application A4 is executed in conjunction with the pay content 2.

[0142] As described above, in a promotional service to which the present technology is applied when a paid service provider provides multiple services, the contract confirmation application A1 executes a contract confirmation API and executes the promotion application A2 or the linked application A3 (A4) depending on the confirmation results.

[0143] Therefore, unlike conventional promotional services, there is no need for a resident application in the receiving device 20 to perform special processing such as display or switching to provide a free promotional service, thereby meeting the requirements of the manufacturer of the receiving device 20.

[0144] Furthermore, instead of simply switching from a paid service to a free promotional service as in the case of conventional promotional services, a promotional application A2 or a linked application A3 (A4) can be executed depending on the confirmation results of the contract confirmation application A1, thereby providing a more flexible free promotional service, thereby meeting the requirements of paid service providers.

[0145] <4. Syntax examples>

[0146] (Application Service Descriptor) FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of the syntax of the application service descriptor (Application_Service_Descriptor).

[0147] The 16-bit descriptor_tag is a tag for identifying the application service descriptor. The 8-bit descriptor_length is the length of the application service descriptor.

[0148] The 8-bit application_format_map indicates the format applied to the application in the form of a bitmap. For example, in this bitmap, the first bit 0 can be assigned to HTML5 and operated with a fixed value of "0x01". In this case, the receiving device 20 checks only that bit 0 in the bitmap is "1" and ignores other bits.

[0149] The 1-bit default_AIT_flag is a flag indicating whether the AIT (MH-AIT) is the default monitoring target. For example, when the AIT (MH-AIT) is transmitted by communication, the default_AIT_flag is set to "0", and when the AIT (MH-AIT) is transmitted by broadcasting, the default_AIT_flag is set to "1".

[0150] The 1-bit DT_message_flag is a flag that indicates whether or not a data transmission message (DT-Mes) is to be delivered. For example, if application data is to be transmitted by broadcasting, DT_message_flag is set to "1". Next to DT_message_flag, 2 bits of reserved_future_use are reserved as an area for future expansion.

[0151] The 4-bit EMT_num indicates the number of EMT (Event Message Table) deliveries. The maximum number of EMT deliveries is 8.

[0152] AIT_location_info() indicates the acquisition destination of the AIT (MH-AIT). MMT_general_location_info() corresponds to the location information in Fig. 12. That is, for example, when the AIT (MH-AIT) is transmitted by broadcasting, "0" is set as location_type, and a packet ID for acquiring the AIT (MH-AIT) is set. Also, for example, when the AIT (MH-AIT) is transmitted by communication, "5" is set as location_type, and a URL for acquiring the AIT (MH-AIT) is set.

[0153] When "1" is set as DT_message_flag, DT_message_location_info() is placed. DT_message_location_info() indicates the acquisition destination of the data transmission message. MMT_general_location_info() corresponds to the location information in Fig. 12. That is, for example, when a data transmission message is transmitted by broadcasting, "0" is set as location_type, and a packet ID for acquiring the data transmission message is set.

[0154] EMT_location_info() is set according to the number of EMT distributions indicated by EMT_num. EMT_location_info() indicates the acquisition destination of the EMT. MMT_general_location_info() corresponds to the location information in Fig. 12. That is, for example, when the EMT is transmitted by broadcasting, "0" is set as location_type, and a packet ID for acquiring the EMT is set.

[0155] (Access Control Descriptor) FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of the syntax of the access control descriptor (Access_Control_Descriptor).

[0156] The 16-bit descriptor_tag is a tag for identifying the access control descriptor, and the 8-bit descriptor_length is the length of the access control descriptor.

[0157] The 16-bit CA_system_ID is an identifier that indicates the type of conditional access system. MMT_general_location_info() is information that indicates the location of the MMTP packet that contains related information. When placed in the MPT, it indicates the location of the ECM.

[0158] The 8xN-bit private_data is an area to write any data into. In the private_data, the type of data is identified by a tag indicated by the 4-bit data_segment_tag, and the data length is set by the 4-bit data_length, allowing various types of data to be placed therein.

[0159] Here, when "0x1" is set as the data_segment_tag and "0x1" is set as the data_length, a 1-bit app_initiative_flag is placed. The app_initiative_flag is an application startup flag indicating the presence or absence of a contract confirmation application.

[0160] For example, when "1" is set as app_initiative_flag, it indicates that a contract confirmation application exists and that the promotion service to which the present technology is applied is supported by a fee-related application. In this case, the contract confirmation application is executed, and the promotion application or the linked application is executed according to the result of the contract confirmation.

[0161] In addition, in private_data, 7 bits of reserved_future_use are reserved as an area for future expansion. Also, the syntax of the access control descriptor in Fig. 27 is an example, and other syntaxes can be adopted.

[0162] <5. Configuration of each device>

[0163] (Example of transmitter configuration) FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of the transmission device 10 of FIG.

[0164] In FIG. 28, the transmitting device 10 is composed of a time information generation unit 111, a time information processing unit 112, an audio data acquisition unit 113, an audio encoder 114, a video data acquisition unit 115, a video encoder 116, a subtitle data acquisition unit 117, a subtitle encoder 118, an application generation unit 119, an application processing unit 120, an MMT-SI generation unit 121, an MMT-SI processing unit 122, a TLV-SI generation unit 123, a TLV-SI processing unit 124, a scheduler 125, a multiplexer (Mux) 126, a scrambler 127, and a transmission unit 128.

[0165] The time information generation unit 111 generates time information such as NTP, and supplies it to the time information processing unit 112. The time information processing unit 112 processes the time information (NTP) supplied from the time information generation unit 111, and supplies it to the multiplexer 126.

[0166] The audio data acquisition unit 113 acquires audio data as components from an internal storage, an external server, a microphone, etc., and supplies the audio data to an audio encoder 114. The audio encoder 114 encodes the audio data supplied from the audio data acquisition unit 113 in accordance with an encoding method such as AAC, and supplies the encoded data to a multiplexer 126.

[0167] The video data acquisition unit 115 acquires video data as components from an internal storage, an external server, a camera, or the like, and supplies the data to the video encoder 116. The video encoder 116 encodes the video data supplied from the video data acquisition unit 115 in accordance with an encoding format such as HEVC, and supplies the encoded data to the multiplexer 126.

[0168] The subtitle data acquisition unit 117 acquires subtitle data as a component from an internal storage, an external server, or the like, and supplies the data to the subtitle encoder 118. The subtitle encoder 118 encodes the subtitle data supplied from the subtitle data acquisition unit 117 in accordance with a predetermined encoding method, and supplies the encoded data to the multiplexer 126. The subtitle data is written in the TTML format.

[0169] The application generation unit 119 generates application data in HTML5 format based on raw data (e.g., HTML files, JPEG files, etc.) for generating applications such as paid applications, and supplies the data to the application processing unit 120. The application processing unit 120 performs processing such as for transmitting the HTML5 format application data supplied from the application generation unit 119 as a data broadcast, and supplies the data to the multiplexer 126.

[0170] The MMT-SI generation unit 121 generates MMT-SI based on raw data for generating MMT-SI, and supplies it to the MMT-SI processing unit 122. The MMT-SI processing unit 122 performs processing, for example, for transmission as MMT control information on the MMT-SI supplied from the MMT-SI generation unit 121, and supplies it to the multiplexer 126.

[0171] The TLV-SI generating unit 123 generates TLV-SI based on raw data for generating TLV-SI, and supplies it to the TLV-SI processing unit 124. The TLV-SI processing unit 124 performs processing on the TLV-SI supplied from the TLV-SI generating unit 123, for example, for transmission as control information of the TLV, and supplies it to the multiplexer 126.

[0172] The scheduler 125 controls the application generation unit 119 through the TLV-SI processing unit 124 to manage the timing of transmitting the application, MMT-SI, and TLV-SI.

[0173] The multiplexer 126 is supplied with time information (NTP) from the time information processing unit 112, audio data from the audio encoder 114, video data from the video encoder 116, subtitle data from the subtitle encoder 118, application data from the application processing unit 120, MMT-SI from the MMT-SI processing unit 122, and TLV-SI from the TLV-SI processing unit 124.

[0174] The multiplexer 126 multiplexes time information (NTP), audio, video, and subtitle component data, application data, and control information MMT-SI and TLV-SI to generate a broadcast stream and supplies it to the transmission unit 128.

[0175] Here, the multiplexer 126 includes IP service MUXes 131 - 1 to 131 -N (N is an integer equal to or greater than 1) and a TLVMUX 132 .

[0176] The IP service MUXes 131-1 to 131-N multiplex time information (NTP), component data, application data, and control information (MMT-SI) for each service. The TLV MUX 132 further multiplexes the data for each service multiplexed by the IP service MUXes 131-1 to 131-N and the control information (TLV-SI).

[0177] Furthermore, the scrambler 127 uses a scrambling key (Ks) to scramble (encrypt) the component and application data supplied to the multiplexer 126 as necessary.

[0178] For example, when pay content is composed of audio, video, and subtitle components, the scrambler 127 scrambles the data of these components using a scramble key (Ks). For example, when transmitting a pay-related application as an application, the scrambler 127 scrambles the data of the linked application using the scramble key (Ks), while the data of the contract confirmation application and the promotion application are non-scrambled (unencrypted) data. Although not shown in the figure for the sake of simplicity, the broadcast stream includes EMM and ECM as control information.

[0179] The transmitting unit 128 transmits the broadcast stream supplied from the multiplexer 126 via an antenna 129 as a digital broadcast signal (broadcast wave).

[0180] In addition, the transmitting device 10 in FIG. 28 transmits (transmits) a digital broadcast signal compatible with the MMT method, and the details of data transmission using the MMT method are as described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 17.

[0181] (Example of receiving device configuration) FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the receiving device 20 of FIG.

[0182] In FIG. 29, the receiving device 20 is composed of a tuner 212, a descrambler 213, a CAS platform 214, a demultiplexer (Demux) 215, a system control unit 216, an input unit 217, a memory 218, a time information processing unit 219, an audio decoder 220, an audio output unit 221, a video decoder 222, a video output unit 223, a subtitle decoder 224, an application control unit 225, an application engine 226, and a communication unit 227.

[0183] The tuner 212 demodulates a digital broadcast signal (broadcast wave) received via the antenna 211 and supplies the resulting broadcast stream to the descrambler 213.

[0184] The descrambler 213 descrambles the scrambled stream among the broadcast streams supplied from the tuner 212, using a scrambling key (Ks) supplied from the CAS platform 214. The non-scrambled stream and the descrambled stream are supplied to a demultiplexer 215.

[0185] The CAS platform 214 provides functions related to a conditional access system (CAS) in the receiving device 20. When a license for a paid service is provided by the application engine 226, the CAS platform 214 holds the license. When an ECM is input (injected) from the system control unit 216, the CAS platform 214 decrypts the ECM with a work key (Ks) and performs a license determination process by comparing a reference license key obtained from the ECM with the license key of the held license.

[0186] If the license judgment conditions are met through this license judgment process, a scrambling key (Ks) is read out from the encryption section of the ECM and supplied (output) to the descrambler 213 . The work key (Ks) held in the CAS platform 214 is obtained, for example, by decrypting the encrypted part of the EMM transmitted in the broadcast stream using the device key (Kd).

[0187] The demultiplexer 215, under the control of the system control unit 216, separates the broadcast stream supplied from the descrambler 213 into time information (NTP), audio, video, and subtitle component data, application data, and control information such as MMT-SI and TLV-SI, and outputs it to the subsequent block.

[0188] Specifically, the demultiplexer 215 is composed of a TLV filter 231, an IP filter 232, a UDP filter 233, an MMT filter 234, and an SI filter 235.

[0189] The TLV filter 231 performs filtering processing based on the TLV header, and supplies the TLV-SI to the SI filter 235. The IP filter 232 performs filtering processing based on the IP header. The UDP filter 233 performs filtering processing based on the UDP header. The MMT filter 234 performs filtering processing based on the MMT packet header or the MMT payload header.

[0190] Through filtering processing by the TLV filter 231 to the MMT filter 234, the MMT-SI is supplied to the SI filter 235. The SI filter 235 performs a predetermined filtering processing to appropriately supply control information such as the TLV-SI or MMT-SI to the system control unit 216. In addition, the SI filter 235 supplies an MH application information table (MH-AIT) to the application control unit 225.

[0191] The system control unit 216 controls the operation of each unit based on control information (MMT-SI, TLV-SI, EMM, ECM, etc.) supplied from the demultiplexer 215. The input unit 217 accepts operations from a user and supplies an operation signal to the system control unit 216. The memory 218 is a non-volatile memory such as an NVRAM (Non Volatile RAM). The memory 218 records various data (for example, TLV-SI) according to the control from the system control unit 216.

[0192] In addition, by filtering processing by the TLV filter 231 to the MMT filter 234, time information (NTP) is supplied to a time information processing unit 219, audio data is supplied to an audio decoder 220, video data is supplied to a video decoder 222, subtitle data is supplied to a subtitle decoder 224, and application data is supplied to an application engine 226.

[0193] The time information processing unit 219 performs processing for synchronizing the transmitting side and the receiving side based on the time information (NTP) supplied from the demultiplexer 215.

[0194] The audio decoder 220 decodes the audio data supplied from the demultiplexer 215 in accordance with a decoding method such as AAC, and supplies the decoded data to an audio output unit 221. The audio output unit 221 supplies the audio data supplied from the audio decoder 220 to a speaker (not shown) at a subsequent stage. As a result, the speaker outputs, for example, the sound of pay content.

[0195] The video decoder 222 decodes the video data supplied from the demultiplexer 215 in accordance with a decoding method such as HEVC, and supplies the decoded data to the video output unit 223. In addition, the subtitle decoder 224 decodes the subtitle data supplied from the demultiplexer 215 in accordance with a predetermined decoding method, and supplies the decoded data to the video output unit 223.

[0196] The video output unit 223 supplies the video data supplied from the video decoder 222 and the subtitle data supplied from the subtitle decoder 224 to a display unit (not shown) at the downstream stage. As a result, for example, video and subtitles of pay content are displayed on the display unit.

[0197] The application control unit 225 controls the application engine 226 under the control of the system control unit 216. In addition, the application control unit 225 controls the application engine 226 based on the MH application information table (MH-AIT) supplied from the demultiplexer 215.

[0198] The application engine 226 is, for example, a browser compatible with HTML 5. The application engine 226, under the control of the application control unit 225, requests the communication unit 227 to acquire an application (for example, a paid application).

[0199] In response to a request from the application engine 226, the communication unit 227 accesses the server 30 via the Internet 90 and requests an application. The communication unit 227 receives application data distributed from the server 30 via the Internet 90 and supplies the data to the application engine 226.

[0200] The application engine 226 receives application data in HTML5 format from the demultiplexer 215 or the communication unit 227. The application engine 226 executes the application under the control of the application control unit 225. Video data corresponding to the running application is provided to a video output 223 .

[0201] For example, the video output unit 223 supplies the video data supplied from the application engine 226 to the display unit. As a result, the video of the application is displayed on the display unit. In addition, for example, the video output unit 223 can also combine the video data supplied from the application engine 226 with the video data supplied from the video decoder 222, and display the video obtained thereby on the display unit.

[0202] Furthermore, in response to a request from the application engine 226, the communication unit 227 accesses the server 30 via the Internet 90 and requests a license for a paid service. The communication unit 227 receives the license distributed from the server 30 via the Internet 90, and supplies the license to the application engine 226. The application engine 226 supplies the license supplied from the communication unit 227 to the CAS platform 214.

[0203] The receiving device 20 in Fig. 29 receives a digital broadcast signal compatible with the MMT system, and the details of data transmission using the MMT system are as described above with reference to Figs. 1 to 17. The receiving device 20 in Fig. 29 is shown as having no speaker or display unit, but when configured as a television receiver, for example, it may have a speaker and display unit. The receiving device 20 is not limited to a fixed receiver, and may be a mobile receiver such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, or mobile phone.

[0204] 29, for the sake of simplicity, when audio or video data is received from the server 30 via the Internet 90, the audio data is supplied to the audio decoder 220, and the video data is supplied to the video decoder 222. When control information such as MMT-SI is received from the server 30 via the Internet 90, the control information is supplied to the system control unit 216.

[0205] <6. Processing flow executed by each device>

[0206] Next, the specific contents of the processes executed by each device constituting the broadcast communication system 1 of FIG. 18 will be described with reference to FIG. 30 to FIG.

[0207] (Transmission process) First, the flow of the transmission process executed by the transmission device 10 in FIG. 18 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

[0208] In step S101, the time information generating unit 111 generates time information (NTP). Also, in step S101, the time information processing unit 112 processes the time information (NTP) generated by the time information generating unit 111.

[0209] In step S102, the audio data acquisition unit 113 acquires audio data from a storage etc. Also in step S102, the audio encoder 114 encodes the audio data acquired by the audio data acquisition unit 113 in accordance with an encoding method such as AAC.

[0210] In step S102, the video data acquisition unit 115 acquires video data from a storage etc. Also, in step S102, the video encoder 116 encodes the video data acquired by the video data acquisition unit 115 in accordance with an encoding method such as HEVC.

[0211] In step S102, the subtitle data acquisition unit 117 acquires subtitle data from a storage etc. Also in step S102, the subtitle encoder 118 encodes the subtitle data acquired by the subtitle data acquisition unit 117 in accordance with a predetermined encoding method.

[0212] In step S103, the application generation unit 119 generates application data based on raw data of the application under the management of the scheduler 125. Also in step S103, the application processing unit 120 processes the application data generated by the application generation unit 119.

[0213] In step S104, the MMT-SI generation unit 121 generates MMT-SI based on raw data of MMT-SI under the management of the scheduler 125. Also in step S104, the MMT-SI processing unit 122 processes the MMT-SI generated by the MMT-SI generation unit 121.

[0214] In step S104, the TLV-SI generating unit 123 generates TLV-SI based on raw data of the TLV-SI under the management of the scheduler 125. Also in step S104, the TLV-SI processing unit 124 processes the TLV-SI generated by the TLV-SI generating unit 123.

[0215] In step S105, the multiplexer 126 multiplexes the time information (NTP) processed in step S101, the video, audio, and subtitle component data processed in step S102, the application data processed in step S103, and the control information (MMT-SI, TLV-SI) processed in step S104 to generate a broadcast stream.

[0216] In step S105, the scrambler 127 scrambles (encrypts) the data of the component or application supplied to the multiplexer 126 using a scrambling key (Ks) as necessary.

[0217] In step S106, the transmission unit 128 transmits the broadcast stream generated in the process of step S105 via the antenna 129 as a digital broadcast signal (broadcast wave).

[0218] The flow of the transmission process has been described above.

[0219] (Channel selection processing) Next, a flow of a channel selection process executed by the receiving device 20 of Fig. 18 will be described with reference to a flowchart of Fig. 31. Note that the channel selection process of Fig. 31 is executed when a desired service is selected by a user operating a remote controller, for example.

[0220] In step S201, system control unit 216 controls demultiplexer 215 to obtain the MPT transmitted as a PA message.

[0221] In step S202, system control unit 216 determines whether or not an access control descriptor exists in the MPT acquired in the process of step S201.

[0222] If it is determined in step S202 that the access control descriptor does not exist in the MPT, the process proceeds to step S203. In this case, the service selected by the user is a non-scrambled service, so in step S203, the system control unit 216 controls each unit of the receiving device 20 to perform reception and playback processing of the non-scrambled service.

[0223] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S202 that the access control descriptor is present in the MPT, the process proceeds to step S204. In step S204, system control unit 216 controls demultiplexer 215 and the like based on the access control descriptor placed in the MPT to obtain ECM transmitted in the broadcast stream.

[0224] In step S205, the system control unit 216 inputs (injects) the ECM acquired in the process of step S204 into the CAS platform 214.

[0225] In step S206, the system control unit 216 determines whether or not "1" is set as the application startup flag (app_initiative_flag) described in the access control descriptor.

[0226] If it is determined in step S206 that the application start flag is set to "0", the process proceeds to step S207. In step S207, the system control unit 216 determines whether or not a scramble key (Ks) has been output from the CAS platform 214 to which the ECM has been input (injected) in the process of step S205.

[0227] If it is determined in step S207 that the scrambling key (Ks) has been output from the CAS platform 214, the process proceeds to step S208. In step S208, the descrambler 213 descrambles the digital broadcast signal received by the tuner 212 using the scrambling key (Ks) output from the CAS platform 214.

[0228] In step S209, system control unit 216 controls each unit of receiving device 20 to receive and play the scrambled service selected by the user, which is descrambled in the process of step S208. That is, in this case, paid content provided as a paid service is played.

[0229] If it is determined in step S207 that the scrambling key (Ks) has not been output from the CAS platform 214, the process proceeds to step S210. In this case, the service (paid service) selected by the user is not yet subscribed to, and a message indicating this is displayed (S210).

[0230] If it is determined in step S206 that the application start flag is set to "1", the process proceeds to step S211. In step S211, a pay-related application process is executed.

[0231] In this paid related application process, a contract confirmation application is executed, and a promotion application or a linked application is executed depending on the result of the contract confirmation. The details of the paid related application process will be described later with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0232] When the process of step S211 is completed, or in parallel with the process of step S211, the process of step S212 is executed. In step S212, the system control unit 216 determines whether or not the scrambling key (Ks) has been output from the CAS platform 214 to which the ECM has been input (injected) in the process of step S205.

[0233] If it is determined in step S212 that the scrambling key (Ks) has been output from the CAS platform 214, the process proceeds to step S208. In steps S208 and S209, the reception and playback process of the scrambled service is performed. That is, in this case, the paid content provided as a paid service is played back.

[0234] When the processes of steps S203, S209, and S210 are completed, or when it is determined in step S212 that the scrambling key (Ks) has not been output from the CAS platform 214, the channel selection process of FIG. 31 is terminated.

[0235] The flow of the channel selection process has been described above.

[0236] (Paid related application processing) Next, with reference to FIG. 32, the details of the pay-related application process corresponding to the process in step S211 in FIG. 31 will be described.

[0237] In step S241, the application engine 226, under the control of the application control unit 225, obtains and starts up a contract confirmation application transmitted in a stream of non-scrambled data (data broadcast).

[0238] In step S242, the application engine 226, under the control of the application control unit 225, causes the contract confirmation application to execute the contract confirmation API.

[0239] In step S243, the application engine 226, under the control of the application control unit 225, determines whether the return value of the contract confirmation API is "1", that is, whether the service selected by the user (paid service) has been contracted.

[0240] If it is determined in step S243 that the return value of the contract confirmation API is "0", that is, that a contract for a paid service has not been made, the process proceeds to step S244. In step S244, the application engine 226, under the control of the application control unit 225, obtains and starts a promotion application transmitted in a stream of non-scrambled data (data broadcasting).

[0241] As a result, the contract confirmation application transitions to a promotion application, and messages and images of the free promotion service are provided. When a non-contracted user who has viewed the promotion performs a contract procedure for a paid service, contract processing (e.g., processing related to a license or billing settlement) is performed, and the paid content is descrambled in the receiving device 20, making it possible to view the content. After a contract for a paid service is made, the promotion application transitions to a linked application, and the linked application can be executed in conjunction with the paid content (steps S208 and S209 in FIG. 31).

[0242] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S243 that the return value of the contract confirmation API is "1", that is, that a paid service contract has been made, the process proceeds to step S245. In step S245, the application engine 226, under the control of the application control unit 225, acquires and starts the linked application transmitted in the stream of scrambled data (data broadcasting). Note that here, the descrambler 213 uses the scrambling key (Ks) output from the CAS platform 214 to descramble the digital broadcasting signal received by the tuner 212, thereby descrambling the linked application.

[0243] This causes a transition from the contract confirmation application to the linked application, which is then executed in conjunction with the descrambled pay content provided by the service selected by the user (steps S208 and S209 in FIG. 31).

[0244] The flow of the fee-related application process has been described above.

[0245] <7. Variations>

[0246] In the above description, the MMT method has been described as the media transport method, but other methods such as MPEG2-TS may also be adopted.

[0247] In addition, digital television broadcasting standards to which the present technology can be applied include ISDB (Integrated Services Digital Broadcasting), a system adopted in Japan, etc., ATSC (Advanced Television Systems Committee standards) adopted in the United States, etc., and DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting), a system adopted in European countries, etc. In addition, the present technology may be adopted not only in terrestrial digital television broadcasting, but also in satellite digital television broadcasting, digital cable television broadcasting, etc.

[0248] <8. Computer Configuration>

[0249] The above-mentioned series of processes 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. Fig. 33 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that executes the above-mentioned series of processes by a program.

[0250] In the computer 900, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 901, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 902, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 903 are interconnected by a bus 904. An input / output interface 905 is further connected to the bus 904. An input unit 906, an output unit 907, a recording unit 908, a communication unit 909, and a drive 910 are connected to the input / output interface 905.

[0251] The input unit 906 includes a keyboard, a mouse, a microphone, etc. The output unit 907 includes a display, a speaker, etc. The recording unit 908 includes a hard disk, a non-volatile memory, etc. The communication unit 909 includes a network interface, etc. The drive 910 drives removable media 911 such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a semiconductor memory.

[0252] In the computer 900 configured as described above, the CPU 901 loads a program recorded in the ROM 902 or the recording unit 908 into the RAM 903 via the input / output interface 905 and the bus 904, and executes it, thereby performing the series of processes described above.

[0253] The program executed by the computer 900 (CPU 901) can be provided by being recorded on a removable medium 911 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.

[0254] In the computer 900, the program can be installed in the recording unit 908 via the input / output interface 905 by mounting the removable medium 911 in the drive 910. The program can also be received by the communication unit 909 via a wired or wireless transmission medium and installed in the recording unit 908. Alternatively, the program can be installed in the ROM 902 or the recording unit 908 in advance.

[0255] Here, in this specification, the processing performed by a computer according to a program does not necessarily have to be performed in chronological order according to 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). In addition, the program may be processed by one computer (processor), or may be processed in a distributed manner by multiple computers.

[0256] The embodiments of the present technology are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the gist of the present technology.

[0257] The present technology can also be configured as follows.

[0258] (1) a receiving unit for receiving scrambled and transmitted broadcast content provided as a pay broadcast service; an acquisition unit that acquires a contract confirmation application in accordance with information indicating the presence or absence of a contract confirmation application for confirming the presence or absence of a contract for the pay broadcast service, the contract confirmation application being included in control information including information regarding a configuration of the broadcast content; A control unit that controls the operation of the contract confirmation application; A receiving device comprising: (2) If the contract confirmation application exists, the acquisition unit When it is confirmed that the user has not subscribed to the pay broadcasting service by executing the contract confirmation application, the user acquires a promotion application for introducing the broadcasting content; When it is confirmed that the user has subscribed to the pay broadcasting service by executing the contract confirmation application, a linked application that is executed in conjunction with the descrambled broadcasting content is acquired; The control unit transitions the contract confirmation application to the promotion application or the linked application, and controls an operation of the promotion application or the linked application. A receiving device as described in (1). (3) the acquisition unit executes the promotion application to acquire a linked application that is executed in conjunction with the descrambled broadcast content when an uncontracted user subscribes to the pay broadcast service, The control unit executes the linked application in conjunction with the broadcast content. A receiving device as described in (2). (4) The control information is transmitted in a non-scrambled manner, The contract verification application is transmitted in a non-scrambled manner, the promotional application is transmitted in a non-scrambled manner; The linked application is scrambled and transmitted. A receiving device according to (2) or (3). (5) The contract confirmation application, the promotion application, and the linked application are transmitted as data; The control information includes application control information for controlling an application and data transmission information including information related to data transmission. A receiving device according to any one of (2) to (4). (6) A single service is provided as the pay broadcast service, The broadcast content, the control information, the application control information, the data transmission information, the contract confirmation application, the promotion application, and the linked application are transmitted as a stream of the paid broadcast service. A receiving device as described in (5). (7) A plurality of services are provided as the pay broadcasting service, The broadcast content, the control information, and the linked application are transmitted as a stream of the paid broadcast service, The application control information, the data transmission information, the contract confirmation application, and the promotion application are transmitted as a common stream with other pay broadcast services. A receiving device as described in (5). (8) In the contract confirmation application, the function for confirming whether or not there is a contract for the pay broadcasting service is provided by an API (Application Programming Interface). A receiving device according to any one of (1) to (7). (9) The MMT (MPEG Media Transport) method is used as the media transport method. The information indicating the presence or absence of the contract verification application is an application startup flag described in an access control descriptor arranged in an MPT (MMT Package Table). A receiving device according to any one of (1) to (8). (10) A receiving method for a receiving device, comprising: The receiving device, Receive scrambled and transmitted broadcast content provided as a paid broadcast service; acquiring the contract confirmation application in response to information indicating the presence or absence of a contract confirmation application for confirming the presence or absence of a contract for the pay broadcast service, the contract confirmation application being included in control information including information regarding a configuration of the broadcast content; Controlling the operation of the contract verification application A receiving method including steps. (11) a generation unit that generates control information including information regarding a configuration of broadcast content provided as a pay broadcast service, the control information including information indicating the presence or absence of a contract confirmation application for confirming the presence or absence of a contract for the pay broadcast service; a transmitting unit that transmits the control information that is transmitted in a non-scrambled manner together with the broadcast content that is transmitted in a scrambled manner; A transmitting device comprising: (12) When the contract confirmation application exists, the transmission unit transmits, together with the contract confirmation application, a promotion application for introducing the broadcast content and a linked application executed in conjunction with the descrambled broadcast content. A transmitting device as described in (11). (13) The contract verification application is transmitted in a non-scrambled manner, the promotional application is transmitted in a non-scrambled manner; The linked application is scrambled and transmitted. A transmitting device as described in (12). (14) The contract confirmation application, the promotion application, and the linked application are transmitted as data; The control information includes application control information for controlling an application and data transmission information including information related to data transmission. A transmitting device according to (12) or (13). (15) A single service is provided as the pay broadcast service, The broadcast content, the control information, the application control information, the data transmission information, the contract confirmation application, the promotion application, and the linked application are transmitted as a stream of the paid broadcast service. A transmitting device as described in (14). (16) A plurality of services are provided as the pay broadcasting service, The broadcast content, the control information, and the linked application are transmitted as a stream of the paid broadcast service, The application control information, the data transmission information, the contract confirmation application, and the promotion application are transmitted as a common stream with other pay broadcast services. A transmitting device as described in (14). (17) The MMT method is adopted as the media transport method. The information indicating the presence or absence of the contract verification application is an application startup flag described in an access control descriptor arranged in the MPT. A transmitting device according to any one of (11) to (16). (18) A transmission method for a transmission device, comprising: The transmitting device, generating control information including information regarding a configuration of broadcast content provided as a pay broadcast service, the control information including information indicating the presence or absence of a contract confirmation application for confirming the presence or absence of a contract for the pay broadcast service; Transmitting the control information transmitted in a non-scrambled manner together with the broadcast content transmitted in a scrambled manner A sending method including steps. [Explanation of symbols]

[0259] 1 Broadcasting and communication system, 10 Transmitting device, 20 Receiving device, 30 Server, 80 Transmission path, 90 Internet, 119 Application generation unit, 120 Application processing unit, 121 MMT-SI generation unit, 122 MMT-SI processing unit, 123 TLV-SI generation unit, 124 TLV-SI processing unit, 125 Scheduler, 126 Multiplexer, 127 Scrambler, 128 Transmitting unit, 212 Tuner, 213 Descrambler, 214 CAS platform, 215 Demultiplexer, 216 System control unit, 218 Memory, 225 Application control unit, 226 Application engine, 227 Communication unit, 900 Computer, 901 CPU

Claims

1. A method for generating information indicating the transmission of a contract confirmation application for confirming whether or not a contract for a paid broadcasting service is in place, and information indicating the transmission of a data transmission message storing a first management table indicating the directory structure of files constituting the application, and a second management table indicating the structure and version information within the assets; Transmitting broadcast content that is scrambled and transmitted as a pay broadcast service, information indicating the transmission of the contract confirmation application, and information indicating the transmission of the data transmission message. A sending method including steps.

2. A generation unit that generates information indicating the transmission of a contract confirmation application for confirming whether or not there is a contract for a paid broadcasting service, and information indicating the transmission of a data transmission message that stores a first management table indicating the directory structure of files that constitute the application, and a second management table indicating the structure and version information within the asset; a transmission unit that transmits broadcast content that is scrambled and transmitted as a pay broadcast service, information indicating the transmission of the contract confirmation application, and information indicating the transmission of the data transmission message; A transmitting device comprising:

3. A method for receiving scrambled and transmitted broadcast content provided as a paid broadcast service, receiving information indicating transmission of a contract confirmation application for confirming whether or not a contract for the pay broadcasting service is made, and information indicating transmission of a data transmission message storing a first management table indicating a directory structure of files constituting the application, and a second management table indicating an internal structure and version information of an asset; acquiring the contract confirmation application based on the first management table and the second management table; Controlling the operation of the contract verification application A receiving method including steps.

4. A method for receiving scrambled and transmitted broadcast content provided as a paid broadcast service, receiving information indicating transmission of a contract confirmation application for confirming whether or not a contract for the pay broadcasting service is made, and information indicating transmission of a data transmission message storing a first management table indicating a directory structure of files constituting the application, and a second management table indicating an internal structure and version information of an asset; acquiring the contract confirmation application based on the first management table and the second management table; Controlling the operation of the contract verification application Equipped with a control unit that controls Receiving device.

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