JP6988974B2 - Transmission method and transmission device - Google Patents

Description

The techniques disclosed herein include a data broadcasting application and a transmission device and transmission method for transmitting the data broadcasting application and its control information by a predetermined transport method, and a data broadcasting application and its control information transmitted by a predetermined transport method. The present invention relates to a receiving device and a receiving method for receiving and executing a data broadcasting application based on control information.

In the current broadcasting system, the MPEG-2 TS (Moving Picture Experts Group-2 Transport Stream) method and the RTP (Real Time Transport Protocol) method are widely used as the media transport method (see, for example, Patent Document 1). That). As a next-generation digital broadcasting system, an ultra-high-resolution TV broadcasting standard based on the MMT (MPEG Media Transport) system (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1) standardized as a new media transport system by MPEG is being studied. Has been done. In the MMT method, it is easy to use a combination of different transmission lines, and it can be commonly used for a plurality of transmission lines for broadcasting and communication.

At the time of this application, an ultra-high resolution TV broadcasting standard based on the MMT method is being studied. In addition, while transmitting the stream media of the main body of the broadcast program such as video, audio, and subtitles in the Timed MPU (Media Processing Unit) format, it is also used for data broadcasting applications and applications such as HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) documents. A method of transmitting related control information in a non-timed MPU format is also specified.

In the data broadcasting service, it is assumed that the key station, which is the producer of the main body of the broadcast program, mainly grants the application linked to the broadcast program, while each local station, which is the distributor, also grants its own application. .. Although each local station is not necessarily linked to the broadcast program itself, it has the advantage of being able to provide information closely related to the region, such as weather forecasts and local news, with its own application, and to realize a fine-grained data broadcasting service for each region. There is.

In data broadcasting using the current BML (Broadcast Markup Language) and hybrid cast broadcasting station operation, application transmission and application transmission and from the viewpoint of not increasing the burden on the distribution equipment of the demarcation of responsibility and local stations, especially in commercial broadcasting, Control information related to the application is also considered to be distributed independently for the key station and the local station.

When considering next-generation broadcasting standards, the demand for commercial broadcasting to provide their own applications to each local station should be fully considered. Here, if all the data broadcasting services are integrated into one system, each local station must add or replace its own application to the data flow of the data broadcasting prepared by the key station. It doesn't become. As a result, the local stations are forced to pay excessive distribution costs, and there is a risk that the work will not go well.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-153291

ISO / IEC FDIS 2308-1: 2013 (E) Information technology-High efficiency coding and media delivery in heterogeneous envelopes-Part1: MPEG MT.

An object of the technique disclosed herein is to provide an excellent transmission device and transmission method capable of suitably transmitting a data broadcasting application and its control information by a predetermined transport method.

Further, an object of the technique disclosed in the present specification is to be able to suitably receive a data broadcasting application transmitted by a predetermined transport method and control information thereof, and execute the data broadcasting application based on the control information. The purpose is to provide an excellent receiving device and receiving method.

The present application has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and the technique according to claim 1 is based on the present invention.
A control information generator that generates control information related to the application for broadcast programs,
A transmission unit that transmits the control information generated by the control information generation unit, and a transmission unit.
Equipped with
The control information generation unit groups the control information for each group in which the application should be operated independently, and puts the control information in a predetermined signaling table in the application service descriptor to obtain the control information acquisition destination information for each group. And group identification information,
It is a transmitter.

According to the technique according to claim 2 of the present application, the control information generation unit of the transmission device according to claim 1 has the application in a signaling table transmitted by a signaling message which is an entry point of signaling information. A service descriptor is arranged to indicate acquisition destination information and group identification information of the control information for each group.

According to the technique according to claim 3 of the present application, the control information generation unit of the transmission device according to claim 1 has the application service descriptor and necessary or important control for the operation of the application for each group. It is configured to indicate the source information and group identification information of the signaling message or signaling table that stores the data.

According to the technique according to claim 4, the control information generation unit of the transmission device according to claim 1 has a data transmission message for each group, MH-AIT, in the application service descriptor. It is configured to show EMT acquisition destination information and group identification information.

According to the technique of claim 5 of the present application, the control information generation unit of the transmitter according to claim 1 indicates that the application is set as the default entry in the application service descriptor. It is configured to further indicate the default flag.

According to the technique according to claim 6, the control information generation unit of the transmission device according to claim 1 further includes an organization identifier that identifies an organization to which each group belongs in the application service descriptor. It is configured as shown.

According to the technique according to claim 7, the control information generation unit of the transmitter according to claim 1 further indicates in the application service descriptor information indicating variations in the format of the application. It is configured.

According to the technique according to claim 8 of the present application, the control information generation unit of the transmission device according to claim 1 indicates an application and a variation of a method of transmitting control information of the application in the application service descriptor. It is configured to show more information.

According to the technique according to claim 9, the transmitting device according to claim 1 includes an AV encoder that encodes data of a broadcast program main body and a file that encodes file data of an application for a broadcast program. It also has an encoder. The transmission unit is configured to multiplexed and transmit the control information with the coded data encoded by the AV encoder and the file encoder, respectively.

Further, the technique according to claim 10 of the present application is:
A control information generation step that generates control information related to the application for a broadcast program,
A transmission step for transmitting the control information generated in the control information generation step, and a transmission step.
Have,
In the control information generation step, the control information is grouped for each group in which the application should be operated independently, and the application service descriptor arranged in a predetermined signaling table contains the acquisition destination information of the control information for each group. And group identification information,
It is a transmission method.

Further, the technique according to claim 11 of the present application is:
A control information receiver that receives control information related to the application for broadcast programs,
An application data control unit that controls the execution of an application based on the control information received by the control information receiving unit.
Equipped with
The application data control unit is based on the acquisition destination information and group identification information of control information for each group in which the application should be operated independently, which is indicated by the application service descriptor arranged in a predetermined signaling table. Get the application data transmitted from each group,
It is a receiving device.

According to the technique of claim 12 of the present application, the application data control unit of the receiving device according to claim 11 is arranged in a signaling table transmitted by a signaling message which is an entry point of signaling information. From the application service descriptor, the acquisition destination information and the group identification information of the control information for each group are acquired.

According to the technique of claim 13 of the present application, the application data control unit of the receiving device according to claim 11 is necessary or important for the operation of the application for each group from the application service descriptor. It is configured to acquire the acquisition destination information and the group identification information of the signaling message or signaling table that stores the control data.

According to the technique according to claim 14, the application data control unit of the receiving device according to claim 11 is a data transmission message for each group, MH-, from the application service descriptor. It is configured to acquire AIT and EMT acquisition destination information and group identification information.

According to the technique according to claim 15, the application data control unit of the receiving device according to claim 11 defaults to an application for which a default flag is set in the application service descriptor. It is configured to start as.

According to the technique of claim 16 of the present application, the application data control unit of the receiving device according to claim 11 belongs to a group based on the organization identifier shown in the application service descriptor. It is configured to identify the organization to do.

According to the technique according to claim 17, the application data control unit of the receiving device according to claim 11 is an application transmitted by each group based on the information indicated by the application service descriptor. It is configured to identify the format.

According to the technique of claim 18 of the present application, the application data control unit of the receiving device according to claim 11 has variations of the application and the method of transmitting control information of the application indicated by the application service descriptor. Based on the information shown, it is configured to acquire the application transmitted by each group and the control information of the application.

According to the technique according to claim 19, the receiving device according to claim 11 is an AV decoder that decodes the data of the broadcast program main body, and a synthesis unit that synthesizes the decoded broadcast program and the result of executing the application. Is further equipped.

Further, the technique according to claim 20 of the present application is:
A control information receiving step that receives control information related to an application for a broadcast program, and
An application data control step that controls the execution of an application based on the control information received in the control information receiving step, and
Have,
In the application data control step, based on the acquisition destination information and group identification information of the control information for each group in which the application should be operated independently, which is indicated by the application service descriptor arranged in the predetermined signaling table. Get the application data to run,
It is a receiving method.

According to the technique disclosed herein, it is possible to provide an excellent transmission device and transmission method capable of suitably transmitting a data broadcasting application and its control information by a predetermined transport method.

Further, according to the technique disclosed in the present specification, a data broadcasting application transmitted by a predetermined transport method and its control information can be suitably received, and the data broadcasting application can be executed based on the control information. It is possible to provide an excellent receiving device and receiving method.

According to the technology disclosed herein, a plurality of groups such as a key station as a program production station, each local station as a distribution station, and a third party may use group-by-group data broadcasting applications and applications for the same broadcasting program. Control information related to can be distributed by independent systems. Therefore, it is not necessary to increase the demarcation of responsibility between the key station and the local station and the burden on the distribution equipment of the local station.

The effects described in the present specification are merely examples, and the effects of the present invention are not limited thereto. In addition, the present invention may exert additional effects in addition to the above effects.

Still other objectives, features and advantages of the techniques disclosed herein will be clarified by more detailed description based on embodiments and accompanying drawings described below.

FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of a digital broadcasting system 10 to which the technique disclosed in the present specification is applied. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a stack model 200 of broadcast signals to which MMT is applied. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a broadcast transmission system 11 that transmits the broadcast signal shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the receiver 12 that receives the broadcast signal shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an image of a broadcast signal (package) 500 transmitted from the broadcast transmission system 11 to the RF transmission line according to the MMT method. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a mechanism for designating each asset of the package from the MP table in the PA message. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a mechanism for acquiring a file constituting a data broadcasting application to be transmitted by MMT. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a link relationship between a data broadcasting application produced by a program production station, a distribution station, and a third party. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a signal for distributing a data broadcasting application for each group and its control information in an independent system. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the plurality of system distribution signals shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a link relationship between applications operated by each group during the time zone in which program # 2 in FIG. 10 is broadcast. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a link relationship between applications operated by each group during the time zone in which program # 3 in FIG. 10 is broadcast. FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically showing an application distribution system system. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the PA message 1401 which is one of the signaling messages and the MP table 1402 included in the PA message. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of PA message 1500. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a description of parameters included in the PA message. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of the MP table 1700. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a description of parameters included in the MP table. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of an application service descriptor. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of MMT_general_location_info.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the techniques disclosed herein will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 schematically shows a configuration example of a digital broadcasting system 10 to which the technique disclosed in the present specification is applied. The illustrated digital broadcasting system 10 includes a broadcasting transmission system 11 and a receiver 12. In the digital broadcasting system 10 shown in FIG. 1, it is assumed that MMT is applied as a transport method when a broadcasting signal is transmitted from the broadcasting transmission system 11 to the receiver 12.

The broadcast transmission system 11 transmits an IP (Internet Protocol) type broadcast signal including a transmission medium. Broadcast signal transmission deer includes both timed media and non-timed media such as files. Timed media is stream data related to a broadcast program body such as video, audio, and subtitles. The non-timed media is each file data used for data broadcasting, for example, an HTML document. Both timed and non-timed data are transmitted in MPU format.

In the present embodiment, the broadcast transmission system 11 is composed of a key station (program production station) that is a producer of the program main body and each local station (distribution station) that is a distribution company for each region. The key station multiplexes and sends a data broadcasting application mainly linked to the broadcast program to the produced broadcast program main body. In addition, each local station multiplexes and sends its own data broadcasting application to the broadcasting program main body provided by the key station. Each local station's own data broadcasting application is not necessarily linked to the broadcast program itself, but provides information closely related to the region, such as weather forecasts and local news.

On the other hand, the receiver 12 receives the broadcast signal transmitted from the broadcast transmission system 11. Then, the receiver 12 acquires transmission media such as video, audio, and subtitles from the received broadcast signal, and presents images and sounds. Further, when the receiver 12 acquires each file data for data broadcasting from the received broadcast signal, it activates an application engine such as an HTML browser to present data broadcasting linked to the broadcast program.

FIG. 2 shows a stack model 200 with an example of a broadcast signal configuration when MMT is applied as a transport method.

At the bottom of the stack model 200 is the physical layer (PHY) 201. Physical example 201 includes a modulation method, an error correction method, and the like.

Above the physical layer 201, there is a layer 202 of TLV (Type Length Value) transmission packets. Further, the IP packet 203 is mounted on the TLV 202, and the UDP (User Datagram Protocol) 204 is mounted on the IP packet 203. Further, on the transmission packet 202 of the TLV, a header compression IP205 obtained by compressing the headers of the IP203 and the UDP204, and a transmission control signal 206 as signaling information (SI) are also mounted.

On the UDP 204, an MMT packet 207, an NTP (Network Time Protocol) packet 208 containing information on the current time, and the like are placed. The MMT Protocol (MMTP) is an application layer transport protocol for transmitting the MMTP payload 209 over an IP network.

The MMT payload 209 of the MMT packet 207 includes an MFU (MMT Fragment Unit) 210 or a signaling message 211 related to data broadcasting. The MFU 210 is a fragment of the MPU, which is a container for coded timed media as well as non-timed media. Stream data (timed media) 212 such as video, audio, and subtitles, and file data (non-timed media) 213 such as HTML document data are inserted into the MFU 210.

FIG. 3 shows a configuration example of the broadcast transmission system 11 that transmits the broadcast signal shown in FIG. The broadcast transmission system 11 corresponds to a key station (program production station) that is a producer of a broadcast program main body, or each local station (distribution station) that is a distributor. The illustrated broadcast transmission system 11 includes a clock unit 301, a signal transmission unit 302, a video encoder 303, an audio encoder 304, a caption encoder 305, a signaling encoder 306, a file encoder 307, and information. It includes a system 308, a TLV signaling encoder 309, an IP service multiplexer (MUX) 310, a TLV multiplexer (MUX) 311 and a modulation / transmission unit 312.

The clock unit 301 generates time information synchronized with the time information acquired from the NTP server (not shown), and sends an IP packet containing this time information to the IP service multiplexer 310.

The signal transmission unit 302 is, for example, a recording / playback device such as a studio of a TV broadcasting station or a VTR, and is a file for stream data such as video, audio, and subtitles, which are timed media, and a data broadcasting application, which is non-timed media. -The data (HTML document data, etc.) is sent to the video encoder 303, the audio encoder 304, the caption encoder 305, and the file encoder 307, respectively.

The information system 308 sends the data broadcasting application, which is a scheduler of the TV broadcasting station and the source of the file, and the non-timed media, and the control information related to the data broadcasting application to the file encoder 307 and the signaling encoder 306, respectively. When the broadcast transmission system 11 is a program production station such as a key station, the information system 308 mainly transmits a data broadcasting application linked to the broadcast program and control information related thereto to the file encoder 307 and the signaling encoder 306, respectively. do. Further, in the case of a distribution station such as a local station, the information system 308 provides, for example, its own data broadcasting application including information closely related to each region (not necessarily linked to a broadcast program) and control information related thereto. It is sent to the file encoder 307 and the signaling encoder 306.

The video encoder 303 encodes the video signal transmitted from the signal transmission unit 302, further packets it, and sends an IP packet including a video MMT packet to the IP service multiplexer 310. Further, the audio encoder 304 encodes the audio signal transmitted from the signal transmission unit 302, further packetizes it, and sends an IP packet including an audio MMT packet to the IP service multiplexer 310. Further, the caption encoder 305 encodes the subtitle signal transmitted from the signal transmission unit 302, further packetizes it, and sends the IP packet including the MMT packet of the subtitle to the IP service multiplexer 310.

The signaling encoder 306 generates a signaling message describing control information related to the data broadcasting application based on the information transmitted from the information system 308, and includes an MMT packet in which the signaling message is arranged in the payload section. The IP packet is sent to the IP service multiplexer 310. In the present embodiment, signaling messages are roughly classified into three types: PA (Package Access) messages, M2 section messages, and data transmission messages. Details of each signaling message will be given later.

The file encoder 307 divides the file data transmitted from the signal transmission unit 302 or the information system 308 as necessary to generate an MMT packet containing the file data, and the IP packet including the MMT packet is generated. Send to IP service multiplexer 310. The file data constitutes a data broadcasting application.

The broadcast transmission system 11 is equipped with an IP service multiplexer 310 for each channel (broadcast program) to be transmitted. The one-channel IP service multiplexer 310 multiplexes an IP packet containing each of video, audio, subtitles, signaling messages, and file data sent from each encoder 303-307 into one. Generates TLV packets that make up the channel.

The TLV signaling encoder 309 encodes the signaling information transmitted from the information system 308 to generate a TLV packet to be placed in the payload unit.

The TLV multiplexer 311 multiplexes the TLV packets generated by each IP service multiplexer 310-1 to 10-N and the TLV signaling encoder 309 to generate a broadcast stream.

However, when the broadcast transmission system 11 is a distribution station, it is not equipped with the signal transmission unit 302, the video encoder 303, the audio encoder 304, and the caption encoder 305, and is not equipped with the signal transmission unit 302, via the B2B communication path from the program production station, or the like. It is configured to receive a broadcast stream and multiplex it with a TLV encoder 311.

The modulation / transmission unit 312 performs RF modulation processing on the broadcast stream generated by the TLV multiplexer 311 and sends it to the RF transmission line. However, when the broadcast transmission system 11 is a program production station, the modulation / transmission unit 312 transmits a broadcast stream to each distribution station such as a local station via a B2B communication path or the like.

The operation of the broadcast transmission system 11 shown in FIG. 3 will be described.

The clock unit 301 generates time information synchronized with the time information acquired from the NTP server, and generates an IP packet including this time information.

The video signal transmitted from the signal transmission unit 302 is supplied to the video encoder 303. In the video encoder 303, the video signal is encoded and further packetized to generate an IP packet containing a video MMT packet. This IP packet is sent to the IP service multiplexer 310.

Further, the same processing is performed for the audio signal and the subtitle signal transmitted from the signal transmission unit 302. Further, the IP packet including the MMT packet of the audio generated by the audio encoder 304 is sent to the IP service multiplexer 310, and the IP packet including the MMT packet of the subtitle generated by the caption encoder 305 is the IP service. -Sent to the multiplexer 310.

Further, the signaling encoder 306 generates a signaling message related to data broadcasting based on the information transmitted from the information system 308, and generates an IP packet including an MMT packet in which the signaling message is arranged in the payload section. To. This IP packet is sent to the IP service multiplexer 310.

Further, the file data transmitted from the signal transmission unit 302 or the information system 308 is supplied to the file encoder 307. In the file encoder 307, the file data is divided as necessary, an MMT packet containing the file data is generated, and an IP packet including the MMT packet is generated. This IP packet is sent to the IP service multiplexer 310.

In each IP service multiplexer 310, IP packets containing each of video, audio, subtitles, signaling messages, and file data sent from each encoder 303 to 307 are multiplexed to form one channel. TLV packet is generated.

In the TLV signaling encoder 309, the signaling information transmitted from the information system 308 is encoded to generate a TLV packet to be placed in the payload unit.

In the TLV multiplexer 311, the TLV packets generated by each IP service multiplexer 310-1 to 10-N and the TLV signaling encoder 309 are multiplexed to generate a broadcast stream. The modulation / transmission unit 312 performs RF modulation processing on the broadcast stream generated by the TLV multiplexer 311 and sends the RF modulation signal to the RF transmission line.

FIG. 4 shows a configuration example of the receiver 12 that receives the broadcast signal shown in FIG. The receiver 12 shown is a tuner / demodulation unit 401, a demultiplexer (DEMUX) 402, a clock unit 403, a video decoder 404, an audio decoder 405, a caption decoder 406, and application data control. It includes a unit 407, a cache memory 408, a data broadcasting application engine 409, a system control unit 410, a synthesis unit 411, and an IP interface 412.

The tuner / demodulation unit 401 receives the RF modulation signal, performs demodulation processing, and obtains a broadcast stream. The demultiplexer 402 performs demultiplexing processing and packetizing processing on this broadcast stream to NTP time information, signaling information, and video, audio, and caption coded signals related to the main part of the broadcast program. It outputs a signaling message including file data (HTML document, etc.) for a data broadcasting application linked to a broadcasting program and control information related to the data broadcasting application. The file data used for data broadcasting is, for example, a data broadcasting application described in HTML5 format.

The video decoder 404 decodes the coded video signal obtained by the demultiplexer 402 to obtain a baseband video signal. Further, the audio decoder 405 decodes the coded audio signal obtained by the demultiplexer 402 to obtain a baseband audio signal. Further, the caption decoder 406 decodes the coded subtitle signal obtained by the demultiplexer 402 to obtain a subtitle display signal.

The application data control unit 407 processes each file data for the data broadcasting application. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the file / data for the data broadcasting application is transmitted from two systems of the broadcasting signal and the IP network, the former is via the tuner / demodulation unit 401 and the demultiplexer 402, and the latter is the IP interface. Each is acquired by the application data control unit 407 via 412. The application data control unit 407 controls the processing of the acquired file data based on the control information described in the signaling message output from the demultiplexer 402. For example, when the application data control unit 407 analyzes the signaling message and finds the data broadcasting application set as the default entry, the processing of the corresponding file data (HTML document, etc.) is performed by an HTML browser or the like. Instruct the data broadcasting application engine 409. Further, the application data control unit 407 controls pre-cache and forced cache of the file data received by the broadcast signal to the cache 408 based on the signaling message. See, for example, Japanese Patent Application No. 2014-116283 already assigned to Applicant for more information on caching file data based on signaling messages.

In the broadcast stream, file data for a data broadcasting application related to the program being broadcast is repeatedly sent. The system control unit 410 controls the filtering operation in the demultiplexer 402, and the application data control unit 407 acquires only those necessary for the demultiplexer 402 from the repeatedly sent file data group. To do so.

The system control unit 410 controls the operation of each unit of the receiver 12 based on the signaling information obtained by the demultiplexer 402, the operation information from the user via the user operation unit (not shown), and the like. The clock unit 403 generates time information synchronized with this time information based on the NTP time information obtained by the demultiplexer 402.

Further, the system control unit 410 controls the decoding timing in each of the decoders 404 to 406 based on the signaling information, and adjusts the presentation timing of the video, audio, and subtitles. The compositing unit 411 synthesizes a subtitle display signal and a data broadcast display signal with the baseband video signal to obtain a video signal for video display. Further, the baseband audio signal obtained by the audio decoder 405 is an audio signal for audio output. The main part of the broadcast program consisting of video signals and audio signals is output as video and audio from a monitor display (not shown). Further, the data broadcasting processed by the data broadcasting application engine 409 is also displayed superimposed on the screen of the main part of the broadcast program on the monitor display.

The operation of the receiver 12 shown in FIG. 4 will be described.

The tuner / demodulation unit 401 receives the RF modulation signal, performs demodulation processing, and obtains a broadcast stream. In the demultiplexer 402, the broadcast stream is subjected to demultiplexing processing and packetization processing, and NTP time information, signaling messages, video, audio, caption encoded signals, and file data are performed. Is extracted.

The NTP time information extracted by the demultiplexer 402 is sent to the clock unit 403. The clock unit 403 generates time information synchronized with this time information based on the NTP time information. That is, the clock unit 403 generates time information that matches the time information generated by the clock unit 301 on the broadcast transmission system 11 side.

The coded video signal extracted by the demultiplexer 402 is sent to the video decoder 404 and decoded to obtain a baseband video signal. Further, the coded subtitle signal extracted by the demultiplexer 402 is sent to the caption decoder 406 for decoding, and a subtitle display signal is obtained. Further, the file data extracted by the demultiplexer 402 is sent to the data broadcasting application engine 407 for processing, and a data broadcasting display signal is obtained. The system control unit 410 controls the filtering operation in the demultiplexer 402 so that only the necessary file data is acquired by the demultiplexer 402.

Then, in the synthesis unit 411, the display signal of the subtitle and the display signal of the data broadcast are combined with the video signal of the baseband, and the video signal for video display is obtained.

Further, the coded audio signal extracted by the demultiplexer 402 is sent to the audio decoder 405 and decoded to obtain a baseband audio signal for audio output. The main part of the broadcast program consisting of video signals and audio signals is output as video and audio from a monitor display (not shown).

On the other hand, the application data control unit 407 refers to the signaling table included in the signaling message, and refers to the file data (file data for the data broadcasting application) for the data broadcasting application engine 409 including an HTML browser or the like. Instruct the processing of (HTML document, etc.). For example, when the application data control unit 407 analyzes the signaling message and finds the data broadcasting application set as the default entry, the processing of the corresponding file data (HTML document, etc.) is performed by an HTML browser or the like. Instruct the data broadcasting application engine 409.

The data broadcasting application engine 409 processes the data broadcasting application by appropriately using the file data cached in the cache memory 408. The data broadcasting processed by the data broadcasting application engine 409 is also displayed superimposed on the screen of the main part of the broadcast program on the monitor display.

In the digital broadcasting system 10 shown in FIG. 1, it is assumed that MMT is applied as a transport method when a broadcasting signal is transmitted from the broadcasting transmission system 11 to the receiver 12. FIG. 5 shows an image of a broadcast signal 500 transmitted from the broadcast transmission system 11 to the RF transmission line according to the MMT method.

The broadcast signal of one service (channel: broadcast program) is timed media related to the main part of the broadcast program such as video, audio, and subtitles, and non-timed media such as file data used for data broadcasting linked to the broadcast program. It is composed of media, and the media data encoded by these is transmitted in MPU format. In addition, information related to transmission control of these broadcast signals is transmitted as a signaling message. In MMT, it is easy to use the data of the timed media and the non-timed media constituting one channel (broadcast program) in a combination of different transmission lines. In the example shown in FIG. 5, as the broadcast signal 500, MMT transmission lines 501 to 504 for each type of data such as video, audio, subtitles, file data, signaling messages, etc. are used. In the figure, the transmission path for subtitle data is omitted for convenience.

MMTP (MMT protocol) packets transmitted on each MMT transmission line 501 to 504 within the same IP address can be uniquely specified by a packet identifier (packet_id: PID). Further, the MMTP packet on a different IP address can be specified by a combination of a packet identifier, an IP address, and a port number.

One channel (broadcast program) can be called a "package" consisting of multiple assets of different types such as video, audio, subtitles, file data (data broadcasting application) (a package is an MMT transmission line). A logical set of media data transmitted using). Each asset is a set (logical group) of one or more MPUs that share the same attach_id (asset identifier), and is transmitted on a dedicated ES (Elementary Stream), that is, an MMT transmission path (the asset is unique). An entity of data associated with an identifier and used to configure a multimedia presentation). That is, on the transmission line 501, a video MMT packet (MMTP) consisting of an MPU logical group having a common attach_id is transmitted, and on a transmission line 502, an audio MMT packet consisting of an MPU logical group having a common attacht_id is transmitted. On the transmission line 503, an MMT packet of file data composed of an MPU logical group having a common attach_id is transmitted. The MPU is specified by the assist_id and the sequence number of the MPU on the corresponding transmission line. Further, the MMT transmission line that transmits each medium can be identified by asset_id.

In addition, one package (broadcast program) may transmit multiple assets of the same type (ie, different attach_ids). For example, two or more file contents (data broadcasting applications) are provided for the same broadcast program. In such a case, different asset_ids are assigned to different file contents, and they are transmitted as different MPU logical groups on different MMT transmission lines. In FIG. 5, for simplification, only one transmission line 503 for file data is drawn.

Further, the MMT method can be commonly used for a plurality of transmission lines for broadcasting and communication. For example, non-timed media such as HTML document data is provided via a communication transmission line such as an IP network, in addition to being transmitted together with the timed media using a broadcast transmission line 504 as shown in FIG. You can also do it.

Further, on the transmission line 504, an MMT packet containing the same signaling message is repeatedly transmitted. Examples of the signaling message transmitted on the transmission line 504 include PA message 510, M2 section message 520, and data transmission message 530. The signaling table is carried in various signaling messages.

For example, the PA message 510 is control information indicating the configuration of a broadcast program, and includes an MP (MMT Package) table 511 that describes information constituting the package such as a list of assets and their positions.

In a broadcasting standard to which the media transport method by MMT is applied, a fixed packet identifier (for example, 0x0000) is assigned to an MMTP packet that transmits a PA message. Therefore, on the receiver side, the PA message can be acquired by designating the fixed packet identifier on the MMT transmission path. Then, by referring to the MP table transmitted in the PA message, each asset (video, audio, subtitles, file data (data broadcasting application), etc.) constituting the package (broadcast program) can be specified (Fig.). 6).

Further, the M2 section message 520 is a message for transmitting the section extension format of MPEG-2 Systems. Signaling tables such as MH-AIT (Application Information Table) 521 and EMT (Evenment Message Table) 522 are individually stored in the M2 section message 520.

The MH-AIT521 is a table that specifies a processing method (startup state applied to the application, etc.) of a data broadcasting application (file data) sent on the MMT transmission line, and a location (URL).

The EMT522 is a signaling table used in the event message transmission method, and stores information (event message descriptor) regarding an event message (a synchronous / asynchronous message from a broadcasting station to an application on a receiver). The event message transmission method provides a means for transmitting message information from a broadcasting station to a data broadcasting application running on a receiver immediately or at a specified time.

Further, the data transmission message 530 is a message for transmitting control information regarding the transmission of the data broadcasting application. One data transmission message 530 stores each signaling table of the data directory management table 531, the data asset management table 532, and the data content configuration table 533.

The data directory management table 531 manages the directory structure contained in one package and the directory structure of subdirectories and files (items) contained in the directory in order to separate the file structure of the application from the structure for file transmission. It is a table to be stored, and one is stored in the data transmission message 530. Further, the data asset management table 532 is a table that describes the version information for each MPU with the configuration of the MPU in the asset. Further, the data content configuration table 533 is a table that describes the configuration information of the file as the data content in order to realize flexible and effective cache control of the file data for the data broadcasting application. Each content (data broadcasting application) is described in a data broadcasting presentation unit (PU) in one package. The detailed data structure of each signaling table of the data directory management table 531, the data asset management table 532, and the data content configuration table 533 will be omitted.

FIG. 7 illustrates a mechanism for acquiring a file constituting a data broadcasting application to be transmitted by MMT in the receiver.

The path name of the file constituting the data broadcasting application is specified in the application description such as HTML5. The path name referred to here is described by a combination of a directory node name and a file name. In addition, a node tag is specified as a descriptor that integrates a directory node and a file, and each signaling table is used as linking information.

When the path name is specified by the data broadcasting application, the receiver receives the node of the file with the specified path name from the data directory management table in the data transmission message, as indicated by reference number 701. Get the tag.

The receiver then transmits an item with the node tag obtained in the data directory management table from the data asset management table, also in the data transmission message, as indicated by reference number 702. Obtain the component tag, download ID, MPU sequence number, and item ID of the asset to be created.

Further, when the receiver obtains the location information of the asset having the component tag obtained in the data asset management table from the MP table as shown by the reference number 703, the receiver obtains the location information of the asset having the component tag as shown by the reference number 704. Identify the data assets to which the file is actually transmitted.

The receiver then uses the download ID obtained from the data asset management table within the identified data asset and the download ID described in the multi-extended header area of the MMTP packet to transmit the item to the carousel. The unit of repeated transmission of the corresponding file can be uniquely identified. As shown by reference number 705, among the repeatedly transmitted items, the item having the MPU sequence number and the item ID obtained from the data asset management table can be specified as a desired file. The node tag shall be unique within the data transmission message, the MPU sequence number within the asset, and the item ID within the service provider.

In addition, the receiver can constantly monitor the data asset management table to detect that the files that make up the data broadcasting application have been updated and always present the latest data broadcasting application. can. Update notification is possible at each stage, such as asset unit, MPU unit, and file unit. Obtain the component tag, MPU sequence number, and item ID of the updated file from the data asset management table. Similar to the file acquisition shown in FIG. 7, the asset is specified by referring to the MP table, and the item having the obtained MPU sequence number and item ID is the desired updated file.

In short, it is an indispensable signaling table for acquiring information about the files constituting the data broadcasting application transmitted by MMT in the data directory management table, the data asset management table, and the receiver.

In addition, the data content configuration table is a table that describes the configuration information of the file as data content in order to realize flexible and effective cache control of the file data for the data broadcasting application. Specifically, the unit (for example, a page) presented in the data content is defined as a presentation unit (PU), and the data content configuration table is the unit, and the relationship between items and the presentation. -Describe information about the link relationship with the unit. The receiver refers to the data content configuration table to select other items that belong to the same presentation unit as the originally requested item when running the data broadcasting application (presenting a page). Can be specified. In addition, based on the data content configuration table, the information required for cache control (pre-cache and forced cache) of the presentation unit can be obtained, so that the receiver can reduce the acquisition time of the entire page and reduce the acquisition time. It is possible to realize the priority cache of the next page. For details of cache control based on the data content configuration table, refer to, for example, Japanese Patent Application No. 2014-116283 already assigned to the applicant.

The data directory management table, data asset management table, and data content configuration table, together with the MH-AIT table, are necessary or important signaling tables used in the transmission method of data broadcasting applications. Please understand that.

In FIG. 5, for convenience of explanation, all signaling messages describing a data broadcasting application and its control information from a key station (that is, only a single broadcasting station), which is a program production station, are in the same IP address. The configuration of the broadcast signal is drawn on the assumption that it will be transmitted within one IP data flow.

However, while the key stations that produce the main body of the broadcast program mainly grant applications linked to the broadcast program, each local station that is the distributor also grants its own application, which is the operation of the data broadcasting service in the private sector. It is expected in broadcasting. For example, local stations can provide information closely related to the region, such as weather forecasts and local news, with their own applications, although they are not necessarily linked to the broadcast program itself. Further, it is assumed that a third party who is neither a program production station nor a distribution station distributes a data broadcasting application via a network such as the Internet. That is, there are a plurality of groups in which the data broadcasting application should be operated independently.

FIG. 8 shows an example of a link relationship between a data broadcasting application produced by a program production station, a distribution station, and a third party for a certain broadcast program.

In FIG. 8, App1, App2, and Appp4 are data broadcasting applications related to or linked to the broadcasting program main body produced by the key station itself, which is the program production station, and the broadcasting program. The program production station transmits an application produced by its own station such as App1, App2, and Appp4 as a broadcast signal in the same IP data flow together with assets constituting the broadcast program body such as video, audio, and subtitles.

In addition, App3 and Appp5 are their own applications produced by a local station which is a distribution station. App3 and Appp5 are data broadcasting applications that are not linked to broadcast programs and provide information closely related to the area such as weather forecasts and local news. The distribution station transmits its own application such as App3 and App5 as a broadcast signal with an IP data flow different from that of the program production station transmitting the broadcast program main body.

Further, App6 is a data broadcasting application linked or not linked to a broadcast program produced by a third party who is neither a program production station nor a distribution station. The third party distributes its own application such as App6 via a network such as the Internet. In addition, the program production station and the distribution station may also distribute the data broadcasting application produced by each via the network instead of the broadcasting signal.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, the application App1 produced by the program production station is set as the default entry of the broadcast program, the other application Appp2 produced by the program production station, and the application Appp3 produced by the distribution station. Link to. The page transition operation expected when the link relationship between applications as shown in the figure is formed will be described below.

The receiver that has received the broadcast program first executes the application App1 when the data broadcast is started, and then transitions to the application App2 or Appp3 according to the user's operation or the event message.

The application App2 produced by the program production station is further linked to another application Appp4 produced by the program production station and the application Appp5 produced by the distribution station. Therefore, the receiver executes the application App2 and transitions to the page, and then transitions to the application Appp4 or Appp5 according to the user's operation or the event message.

Further, the application App3 produced by the distribution station is further linked to another application Appp6 produced by a third party. Therefore, the receiver executes the application App3 and transitions to the page, and then transitions to the application App6 in response to a user operation or an event message.

In the current data broadcasting using BML and the operation of hybrid cast broadcasting stations, especially in commercial broadcasting, applications such as those shown in Fig. 8 in which the key stations that are the producers of the broadcasting programs are mainly linked to the broadcasting programs. On the other hand, a third party other than each local station or broadcasting station, which is a distribution company, also grants its own application.

Even in the next-generation broadcasting standard that applies the media transport method by MMT, other than the program production stations such as each local station and a third party, the application of its own is given (that is, multiple groups for one broadcasting program). Should give due consideration to the demand for commercial broadcasting (each grants its own application).

Here, if all the data broadcasting applications of a plurality of groups are integrated into one system and operated, for example, it is necessary to add the data broadcasting application to the broadcasting program distributed from the key station at the local station. In such a case, the local station must add or replace its own application to the IP data flow in which the key station transmits the broadcast program, the application associated therewith, and the control information of the application. As a result, the burden on distribution equipment and distribution costs increases for local stations, and there is a risk when adding or replacing applications, and the division of responsibility between key stations and local stations becomes unclear.

In the present specification, in the next-generation broadcasting standard to which the media transport method by MMT is applied, data broadcasting services such as a key station as a program production station, each local station as a distribution station, and a third party are provided. We propose a technology for multiple groups to realize the operation of independent applications. In the following, the contents of the proposal will be described in more detail.

The PA message, which is one of the signaling messages, becomes the entry point of the broadcast program (a fixed packet identifier (for example, 0x0000) is assigned), and the PA message constitutes a package such as a list of assets and their positions. As already mentioned, it contains an MP table that describes the information.

Further, the MH-AIT table, the data directory management table, the data asset management table, and the data content configuration table are important signaling tables used in the transmission method of the data broadcasting application. In addition to these, the EMT used for the event message transmission method is also an important signaling table for the operation of the application.

Therefore, in order to realize the operation of independent applications by each group that provides data broadcasting services, first, signaling messages and signaling tables are grouped for each group in which applications should be operated independently. Here, the signaling messages and signaling tables to be grouped are data transmission messages, MH-AIT, EMT, and other control data necessary or important for the operation of the application.

Then, a new descriptor called an application service descriptor is placed in the MP table that describes the control information of the broadcast service level. In this application service descriptor, the acquisition destination information of each of the above control data necessary or important for the operation of the application for each group and the group tag that identifies the group are shown. In addition, the application service descriptor may further indicate a default flag indicating that the application is set as the default entry, and an organization identifier (organization_id) that identifies the organization to which each group belongs. .. Depending on the acquisition destination information of the data transmission message, there are three signaling tables, the data directory management table, the data asset management table, and the data content configuration table, which are stored in the message. Will show the acquisition destination information of. On the other hand, the acquisition destination information of MH-AIT and EMT is equivalent to the acquisition destination information of the M2 section message that stores each table as a single unit.

Further, the application service descriptor further shows information indicating variations in the format of the data broadcasting application used in the data broadcasting service provided by each group, and variations in the transmission method of the application control information and the content body of the application. You may do so.

FIG. 9 shows signals for distributing data broadcasting applications for each group for the same broadcast program and control information related to the applications in independent systems based on the information described in the application service descriptor as described above. A configuration example is shown. However, in the figure, it is assumed that there are three groups of applications: a key station as a program production station, a local station as a distribution station, and a third party, and links between applications operated by each group. The relationship is as shown in FIG.

Reference number 910 is an IP data flow generated by the program production station. The IP data flow 910 includes a plurality of MMT transmission lines 911 to 914 within the same IP address. The IP data flow 910 has the same IP address, and each MMTP packet to be transmitted can be specified only by the packet identifier.

The MMT transmission lines indicated by reference numbers 911 and 912 transmit video and audio data of the main body of the broadcast program produced by the program production station in the MPU format, respectively. Further, the MMT transmission line indicated by the reference number 913 transmits the data broadcasting applications Appp1, Appp2, and Appp4 produced by the program production station in connection with the above-mentioned broadcast program main body.

The MMT transmission line indicated by reference numeral 914 transmits control information related to the data broadcasting application transmitted on the above-mentioned MMT transmission line 913, that is, various signaling messages and signaling tables. In FIG. 9, for simplification of the drawings, the MP table 914A stored and transmitted in the PA message, and the data transmission message (DTM) 914B, MH- which are necessary or important for operating the data broadcasting application. Only AIT914C and EMT914D are drawn.

Reference number 920 is an IP data flow generated by the distribution station and includes a plurality of MMT transmission lines 921 and 922.

The MMT transmission line indicated by the reference number 921 transmits the data broadcasting application App3 produced by the distribution station in connection with the above-mentioned broadcasting program main body.

The MMT transmission line indicated by reference numeral 922 transmits control information related to the data broadcasting application transmitted on the above-mentioned MMT transmission line 921, that is, various signaling messages and signaling tables. In FIG. 9, only the data transmission messages 922A, MH-AIT922B, and EMT922C, which are necessary or important for operating the data broadcasting application, are drawn for the sake of simplification of the drawings.

Reference number 930 is an IP network such as the Internet. The distribution station distributes the data broadcasting application App5 produced in connection with the above-mentioned broadcasting program main body on the IP network 930. Further, the third party distributes the data broadcasting application App6 produced in connection with the above-mentioned broadcasting program main body on the IP network. Further, the third party distributes the MH-AIT931 describing the processing method (starting state applied to the application, etc.) and the location information (URL) of the data broadcasting application App6 provided by the third party on the IP network. For the data broadcasting applications App5 and Appp6 distributed on the IP network, the data transmission message and EMT are unnecessary.

An application service descriptor is arranged in the MP table 914A stored in the PA message transmitted on the MMT transmission line 914. In this application service descriptor, the acquisition destination information of each of the above control data necessary or important for the operation of the application for each group and the group tag that identifies the group are shown. Specifically, the application service descriptor is associated with the group tag of the program production station, and the data transmission message 914B, MH-AIT914C, which is distributed from the program production station by a broadcast signal (MMT transmission line). Data transmission message 922A, which describes the acquisition destination information (packet identifier in the same IP address) of EMT914D, associates it with the group tag of the distribution station, and distributes it from the distribution station via a broadcast signal (MMT transmission line), MH-AIT931 that describes the acquisition destination information (packet identifier, IP address, and port number) of MH-AIT922B and EMT922C, and is distributed by the third party on the IP network in association with the group tag of the third party. The acquisition destination information (URL) of is described.

When the receiver receives the broadcast distribution signal from the program production station, it analyzes the MP table 914A stored in the PA message that is the entry point of the MMT-SI, and the broadcast signal (MMT transmission path) from the program production station. ), The acquisition destination information of the data transmission message 914B, MH-AIT914C, and EMT914D can be obtained. Then, the receiver is based on the MH-AIT914C, and the processing method (starting state etc. applied to the application) and location information (URL) of each data broadcasting application Appp1, Appp2, Appp4 distributed from the program production station. Can be obtained. In addition, the receiver can refer to each signaling table stored in the data transmission message 914B to acquire a file constituting each data broadcasting application to be MMT transmitted (see FIG. 7). , Flexible cache control can be performed.

Further, the receiver can analyze the MP table 914A to obtain the acquisition destination information of the data transmission messages 922A, MH-AIT922B, and EMT922C distributed by the broadcast signal (MMT transmission line) from the distribution station. Then, based on the MH-AIT922B, the receiver receives the processing method (starting state, etc. applied to the application) and location information of each data broadcasting application Appp3, Appp5 distributed from the program production station on the MMT transmission line and the IP network. (URL) can be obtained. Further, the receiver can refer to each signaling table stored in the data transmission message 922A to acquire a file constituting the data broadcasting application Appp3 transmitted by MMT (see FIG. 7). , Flexible cache control can be performed.

Further, the receiver can analyze the MP table 914A to obtain the acquisition destination information of the MH-AIT931 distributed on the IP network from a third party. Then, the receiver acquires the processing method (starting state applied to the application, etc.) and location information (URL) of the data broadcasting application App6 distributed on the IP network by a third party based on the MH-AIT931. Can be done.

In addition, the application service descriptor indicates that a specific application is set as the default entry by the default flag for the MH-AIT that controls the application. Further, in the above-mentioned MH-AIT, only one application out of a plurality of applications to be controlled is automatically started, and as a result, a specific application is recognized as a default entry. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the application service descriptor indicates that the application App1 delivered from the program production station is the default entry, together with the acquisition destination information of the MH-AIT914C that controls the Appp1, and the default flag (defalt_AIT_flag). : Shown later). Therefore, when the receiver finds the default flag in the application service descriptor, it is the only application Appp1 set to automatically start among the Appp1, Appp2, and Appp4 controlled by the MH-AIT distributed from the program production station. Can be invoked as the default entry.

In short, as shown in FIG. 9, a group of a plurality of applications such as a key station as a program production station, each local station as a distribution station, and a third party are data broadcasting applications and applications for each group for the same broadcasting program. Control information related to can be distributed by independent systems. Therefore, the operation of the application can be realized independently for each group that provides the data broadcasting application.

Further, FIG. 10 shows a modified example of the plurality of system distribution signals shown in FIG. Also in the figure, it is assumed that there are three groups of applications: a key station as a program production station, a local station as a distribution station, and a third party. However, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the link relationship between the applications operated by each group changes due to the program switching.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, it is assumed that the program is sequentially switched to the program # 1, the program # 2, and the program # 3 with the passage of time. However, in order to simplify the drawings, the video and audio MMT transmission lines constituting the main body of the broadcast program are omitted in the IP data flow broadcast by the program production station.

In program # 1, the link relationship between the applications operated by each group is as shown in FIG. Therefore, since the plurality of system distribution signals in the program # 1 have the same configuration as that of FIG. 9, the description thereof is omitted here.

In the following program # 2, the link relationship between the applications operated by each group is as shown in FIG. The key station, which is a program production station, has stopped the data broadcasting service in the IP data flow 1010 broadcast by the program production station. Along with this, the distribution of signaling messages such as data transmission messages, MH-AIT, and EMT, as well as signaling tables has also stopped. On the other hand, the distribution station transmits the data broadcasting applications App3 and Appp7 related to the program # 2 in the IP data flow 1020 broadcast by its own station, and also transmits signaling messages such as a data transmission message, MH-AIT, and EMT. It also distributes signaling tables. In addition, a default entry is set for App7 distributed from the distribution station, and a link relationship between applications that refers to App3 from App7 is formed.

When the receiver receives the broadcast distribution signal from the program production station, it analyzes the MP table stored in the PA message, which is the entry point of the program, and distributes it according to the time zone when program # 2 is broadcast. It is possible to obtain the acquisition destination information of the data transmission message and MH-AIT distributed by the broadcast signal (MMT transmission line) from the station. Then, the receiver receives the processing method (starting state etc. applied to the application) and location information (URL) of each data broadcasting application Appp3 and Appp7 distributed from the distribution station on the MMT transmission line based on the MH-AIT. ) Can be obtained. In addition, the receiver refers to each signaling table stored in the data transmission message to acquire the files constituting the data broadcasting applications Appp3 and Appp7 transmitted by MMT (see FIG. 7). ), Flexible cache control can be performed.

Further, the application service descriptor indicates that the application is set as the default entry by the default flag for the MH-AIT that controls the application. In the time zone when program # 2 is broadcast, the default entry is that the data broadcasting application App7 distributed from the distribution station is the default entry, together with the acquisition destination information of MH-AIT from the distribution station, and the default flag (defalt_AIT_flag: described later). ). Therefore, when the receiver finds the default flag in the application service descriptor, it defaults to the application App7 delivered from the distribution station, which is the only one of the Appp3 and Appp7 controlled by the MH-AIT that is set to automatically start. -Can be started as an entry.

In the following program # 3, the link relationship between the applications operated by each group is as shown in FIG. The key station, which is a program production station, transmits the data broadcasting application App8 related to program # 3 in the IP data flow 1010 broadcast by its own station, and also transmits signaling such as data transmission message, MH-AIT, and EMT. It also delivers messages and signaling tables.

Further, in the program # 3, the distribution station transmits the data broadcasting applications Appp3 and Appp7 related to the program # 3 in the IP data flow 1020 broadcast by the own station, and the data transmission related to these applications. It also distributes messaging messages such as messages and MH-AIT, as well as signaling tables.

Further, in the program # 3, the third party distributes the data broadcasting application App9 and MH-AIT related to the program # 3 on the IP network 1030.

Further, in program # 3, a default entry is set for App7 distributed from the distribution station, and a link relationship between applications is formed in which App7 refers to App3 and App8, and Appp8 refers to App9. There is.

When the receiver receives the broadcast distribution signal from the program production station, it analyzes the MP table stored in the PA message, which is the entry point of the program, and programs according to the time zone when program # 3 is broadcast. Data transmission message delivered by broadcast signal (MMT transmission line) from the production station, MH-AIT, EMT acquisition destination information, data transmission message delivered by broadcast signal (MMT transmission line) from the distribution station, It is possible to obtain MH-AIT acquisition destination information and MH-AIT acquisition destination information distributed by a third party via an IP network. Then, based on the MH-AIT for each group, the receiver is distributed from the data broadcasting application App8 distributed from the program production station, the data broadcasting applications Appp3 and Appp7 distributed from the distribution station, and from a third party. It is possible to acquire the application processing method (starting state applied to the application, etc.) and location information (URL) for each of the data broadcasting applications Appp9. Further, the receiver configures the data broadcasting applications Appp3, Appp7, and Appp8 transmitted by MMT with reference to each signaling table stored in the data transmission message distributed from the program production station and the distribution station, respectively. It is possible to acquire the file to be used (see FIG. 7) and to perform flexible cache control.

Further, the application service descriptor indicates that the application is set as the default entry by the default flag for the MH-AIT that controls the application. In the time zone when program # 3 is broadcast, the default entry is that the data broadcasting application App7 distributed from the distribution station is the default entry, together with the acquisition destination information of MH-AIT from the distribution station, and the default flag (defalt_AIT_flag: described later). ). Therefore, when the receiver finds the default flag in the application service descriptor, it defaults to the application App7 delivered from the distribution station, which is the only one of the Appp3 and Appp7 controlled by the MH-AIT that is set to automatically start. -Can be started as an entry.

In FIG. 13, the program production station and each group of each distribution station A and B distribute the data broadcasting application for each group for the same broadcast program and the control information related to the application in an independent system. The system system 1300 is schematically shown.

In the program production station 1310, an AV encoder 1311 including a video encoder, an audio encoder, and the like encodes data constituting a broadcast program main body such as video and audio. Further, the application generation unit 1312 generates, for example, a data broadcasting application linked to a broadcasting program and control information related to the application. The multiplexer (MUX) 1313 multiplexes the data of the encoded broadcast program and the data of the data broadcasting application and its control information.

When generating and encoding control information related to an application, the program production station 1310 arranges a new descriptor called an application service descriptor in an MP table that describes control information of a broadcast service level. Then, in this application service descriptor, the acquisition destination information of the control data necessary or important for the operation of the application for each group and the group tag that identifies the group are shown. The control data necessary or important for the operation of the application referred to here is the data transmission message, MH-AIT, and EMT.

Then, the multiplexed distribution signal is distributed from the program production station 1310 to the distribution stations 1320 and 1330 via the communication transmission line 1340 such as B2B.

At the distribution station 1320, the application generation unit 1321 generates a data broadcasting application that is not linked to a broadcast program and control information related to the application, which provides information closely related to the area such as a weather forecast or local news. .. The multiplexer 1322 multiplexes the distribution signal distributed from the program production station 1310 and the data of the data broadcasting application and its control information.

When the distribution station 1320 generates and encodes the control information related to its own application, it is necessary or important for the operation of its own application according to the acquisition destination information specified in the application service descriptor in the MP table. Store control data. Then, the multiplexed distribution signal is transmitted from the distribution station 1320 as a broadcast wave.

Similarly, in the distribution station 1330, the application generation unit 1331 provides information closely related to the area such as weather forecast and local news, a data broadcasting application that is not linked to a broadcast program, and control information related to the application. To generate. The multiplexer 1332 multiplexes the distribution signal distributed from the program production station 1310 and the data of the data broadcasting application and its control information.

When the distribution station 1330 generates and encodes the control information related to its own application, it is necessary or important for the operation of its own application according to the acquisition destination information specified in the application service descriptor in the MP table. Store control data. Then, the multiplexed distribution signal is transmitted as a broadcast wave from the distribution station 1330.

As shown in FIG. 13, the operation of the application can be realized independently for each group that provides the data broadcasting application.

As described above, in the technology disclosed herein, PA messages are the entry point for MMT-SI in order for multiple groups providing data broadcasting services to realize the operation of independent applications. Place a new descriptor called the application service descriptor in the MP table stored in.

FIG. 14 shows a configuration example of the PA message 1401 which is one of the signaling messages and the MP table 1402 included in the PA message. Further, FIG. 15 shows an example of the data structure of the PA message 1500, and FIG. 16 shows a description of the parameters included in the PA message.

First, the data structure of the PA message will be described. message_id is a 16-bit fixed value that identifies a PA message in various signaling information. version is an 8-bit integer value parameter indicating the version of the PA message. For example, if some parameters that make up the MP table are also updated, the version is incremented by +1. lens is a 32-bit length parameter that indicates the size of the PA message in bytes, which is counted immediately after this field.

In the extension field, the attribute information of the MP table (MPT) to be arranged in the field (message_payload) of the subsequent payload is arranged. The number_of_tables field indicates the number of MP tables to be stored in this PA message. Then, in the attribute information loop that is repeated for several minutes indicated by number_of_tables, table_id, table_version, and table_length are arranged as the attribute information of each MP table. table_id indicates the identification information of the MP table stored in this PA message. table_version indicates the version of the MP table to be stored in this PA message. table_length indicates the size of the MP table stored in this PA message in bytes.

In the payload field of the PA message, MP tables are arranged for the number indicated by number_of_tables. The MP table stores information related to the package, including a list of all assets (see Figure 6).

FIG. 17 shows an example of the data structure of the MP table 1700 stored in the PA message. Further, FIG. 18 shows a description of the parameters included in the MP table. Hereinafter, the configuration of the MP table will be described.

table_id is an 8-bit fixed value that identifies the MP table in various signaling information. version is an 8-bit integer value indicating the version of the MP table. For example, if some parameters that make up the MP table are also updated, the version is incremented by +1. length is a 32-bit length parameter that indicates the size of the MP table in bytes, which is counted immediately after this field. Further, MPT_mode shows the operation when this MP table is divided into subsets, but detailed description thereof will be omitted.

MMT_package_id_length indicates the size of the text information of the package identification information (MMT_package_id) in bytes. In the subsequent package identification information loop, MMT_package_id is indicated in bytes (MMT_package_id_byte). MMT_package_id is identification information as a whole package including all signals (video, audio, subtitles) transmitted by broadcast signals, and assets such as file data as components. This identification information is text information, and the upper 16 bits have the same value as the service identification information for identifying the service.

MMT_descriptor_length indicates the size of the MP table descriptor area in bytes. In the following MP table descriptor loop, the contents of the MP table descriptor are described in byte units (MPT_descriptors_byte). The field of MP_table_descriptors is a storage area for descriptors related to the entire package. The application service descriptor is placed as one of the MP table descriptors. The application service descriptor shows information for each group of applications that should be operated independently.

number_of_assets is an 8-bit parameter indicating the number of assets (signals, files) as elements constituting the package. Loops of asset information are arranged for the number of number_of_asset. The information arranged in the asset information loop will be described below.

identifier_type indicates the ID system of the MMTP packet flow. If it is an ID system indicating asset identification information, it is set to 0x00. assert_id_scheme indicates the format of the asset identification information. associate__id_length indicates the size of the text information of the asset identification information (asset_id) in bytes. In the following asset identification information loop, asset_id is indicated in byte units (asset_id_byte).

asset_type indicates the type of asset in 32 bits. assert_clock_relation_flag indicates the presence or absence of the clock information field of the asset. The location_count indicates the number of location information of the asset, and in the loop of the location information repeated by the number of subsequent location_counts, the location information MMT_general_location_info of the corresponding asset is indicated. The data structure of MMT_general_location_info will be described later. assist__descriptor_length indicates the size of the text information of the asset descriptor (asset_descriptor) in bytes. In the following asset descriptor loop, the contents of asset_descriptor are shown in byte units (asset_id_byte).

FIG. 19 shows an example of the data structure of the application service descriptor arranged in the MP table.

descriptor_tag (descriptor tag) identifies a descriptor in an 8-bit field. descriptors_length is an area for writing the number of data bytes following this field.

application_format_map indicates an application used by a data broadcasting application as an 8-bit length bitmap. application_format_map is information indicating variations in the application format. By referring to the bitmap, the receiver can take a bird's-eye view of the application to be used and appropriately process the format of the application distributed by each group such as a program production station or a distribution station. For example, if bit 0 indicates application format A, bit 1 indicates application format B, and bit 2 indicates application format C, when this value is 00000101 (binary number), two methods, format A and format C, are used. Indicates that it has been applied. This allows the receiver to recognize that it is necessary to support both format A and format C in order to fully utilize the application service.

The application_transmission_use indicates the transmission method (broadcasting, communication, or both) of the control information of the application as a 2-bit value. The application_transmission_use is information indicating a variation of an application and a transmission method of control information of the application. The receiver can appropriately acquire an application distributed by each group such as a program production station or a distribution station by various transmission methods by referring to application_transmission_use.

number_of_delivery_segment represents the number of systems (groups) that transmit data broadcasting applications for the corresponding service (broadcasting program). In the loop of the application transmission system that follows, the system (group) information for each system (group) that transmits the application is shown. The contents of the system information included in each loop will be described below.

Delivery_segment_tag identifies the lineage (group) in a 3-bit field. The organization_indication_flag indicates whether or not the organization_id (organization identification information) is included in the loop.

AIT_flag, DT_message_flag, and EMT_flag are flags indicating whether or not MH-AIT, default_AIT, data transmission message, and EMT are transmitted as control information of a data broadcasting application from the system (group). Further, the default_AIT_flag is a default flag indicating whether or not the data broadcasting application transmitted from the system (group) is set as the default entry.

When organization_indication_flag is 1, the organization identification information organization_id of the data broadcasting application to be started is indicated by 16 bits.

When AIT_flag is 1, the acquisition destination information AIT_location_info of the signaling table MIT-AIT is shown according to the data structure of MMT_general_location_info.

Further, when DT_message_flag is 1, the acquisition destination information DT_message_location_info of the data transmission message is shown according to the data structure of MMT_general_location_info.

Further, when EMT_flag is 1, the acquisition destination information EMT_location_info of the signaling table EMT is shown according to the data structure of MMT_general_location_info.

FIG. 20 shows an example of a data structure of MMT_general_location_info (location information).

The location_type indicates the type of location information in 8 bits and follows the allocation in Table 1 below.

packet_id indicates the packet identification information of the MMTP packet.

ipv4_src_addr indicates the source address of the IPv4 data flow, and ipv4_dst_addr indicates the destination address of the IPv4 data flow. dst_port indicates the destination port number of the IP data flow. Further, ipv6_src_addr indicates the source address of the IPv6 data flow, and ipv6_dst_addr indicates the destination address of the IPv6 data flow.

network_id indicates network identification information for identifying a broadcast network. MPEG_2_transport_stream_id indicates transport stream identification information for identifying the MPEG-2 TS. MPEG_1_PID indicates the packet identification information of the MPEG-2 TS packet.

URL_length indicates the length of the URL byte field in bytes. In the following URL byte loop, the URL character string is indicated in byte units (URL_byte).

As described above, the techniques disclosed in the present specification have been described in detail with reference to the specific embodiments. However, it is self-evident that a person skilled in the art may modify or substitute the embodiment without departing from the gist of the technique disclosed herein.

The techniques disclosed herein can be applied to various broadcasting systems that employ MMT as the transport method. Further, the technique disclosed in the present specification can be applied to various data broadcasting systems that transmit file data used for data broadcasting linked to a broadcast program by an MMT method or another transport method.

In short, the techniques disclosed herein have been described in the form of illustrations, and the content of this specification should not be construed in a limited way. The scope of claims should be taken into consideration in order to determine the gist of the technology disclosed herein.

The technology disclosed in this specification can also have the following configuration.
(1) A control information generation unit that generates control information related to an application for a broadcast program, and
A transmission unit that transmits the control information generated by the control information generation unit, and a transmission unit.
Equipped with
The control information generation unit groups the control information for each group in which the application should be operated independently, and puts the control information in a predetermined signaling table in the application service descriptor to obtain the control information acquisition destination information for each group. And group identification information,
Transmitter.
(2) The control information generation unit arranges the application service descriptor in a signaling table (MP table) transmitted by a signaling message (PA message) which is an entry point of signaling information (MMT SI). , Indicates the acquisition destination information and group identification information of the control information for each group.
The transmitter according to (1) above.
(2-1) The control information generation unit arranges the application service descriptor in a signaling table (MP table) that describes information constituting a package such as a list of assets and their positions, and arranges the application service descriptor for each group. Indicates the acquisition destination information and group identification information of the control information.
The transmitter according to (1) above.
(3) The control information generation unit stores the control data necessary or important for the operation of the application for each group in the application service descriptor, and the acquisition destination information and the group identification information of the signaling message or the signaling table. Show,
The transmitter according to (1) above.
(4) The control information generation unit indicates, in the application service descriptor, data transmission messages for each group, MH-AIT, EMT acquisition destination information, and group identification information.
The transmitter according to (1) above.
(5) The control information generation unit further indicates in the application service descriptor a default flag indicating that the application is set as the default entry.
The transmitter according to (1) above.
(6) The control information generation unit further indicates an organization identifier that identifies an organization to which each group belongs in the application service descriptor.
The transmitter according to (1) above.
(7) The control information generation unit further indicates information indicating variations in the format of the application in the application service descriptor.
The transmitter according to (1) above.
(8) The control information generation unit further indicates in the application service descriptor information indicating variations of the application and the transmission method of the control information of the application.
The transmitter according to (1) above.
(9) An AV encoder that encodes the data of the broadcast program itself,
It also has a file encoder that encodes the application's file data for broadcast programs.
The transmission unit multiplexes and transmits the control information with the coded data encoded by the AV encoder and the file encoder, respectively.
The transmitter according to (1) above.
(10) A control information generation step for generating control information related to an application for a broadcast program, and
A transmission step for transmitting the control information generated in the control information generation step, and a transmission step.
Have,
In the control information generation step, the control information is grouped for each group in which the application should be operated independently, and the application service descriptor arranged in a predetermined signaling table contains the acquisition destination information of the control information for each group. And group identification information,
Sending method.
(11) A control information receiving unit that receives control information related to an application for a broadcast program, and
An application data control unit that controls the execution of an application based on the control information received by the control information receiving unit.
Equipped with
The application data control unit is based on the acquisition destination information and group identification information of control information for each group in which the application should be operated independently, which is indicated by the application service descriptor arranged in a predetermined signaling table. Get the application data transmitted from each group,
Receiver.
(12) The application data control unit is arranged in a signaling table (MP table) to be transmitted by a signaling message (PA message) which is an entry point of signaling information (MMT SI). To acquire the acquisition destination information and group identification information of the control information for each group.
The receiving device according to (11) above.
(13) The application data control unit identifies the group from the application service descriptor as the acquisition destination information of the signaling message or the signaling table that stores the control data necessary or important for the operation of the application for each group. Get information,
The receiving device according to (11) above.
(14) The application data control unit acquires data transmission messages, MH-AIT, EMT acquisition destination information and group identification information for each group from the application service descriptor.
The receiving device according to (11) above.
(15) The application data control unit starts an application for which a default flag is set in the application service descriptor as a default entry.
The receiving device according to (11) above.
(16) The application data control unit identifies the organization to which the group belongs based on the organization identifier indicated by the application service descriptor.
The receiving device according to (11) above.
(17) The application data control unit identifies the format of the application transmitted by each group based on the information indicated by the application service descriptor.
The receiving device according to (11) above.
(18) The application data control unit acquires the control information of the application and the application transmitted by each group based on the information indicating the variation of the transmission method of the application and the control information of the application indicated by the application service descriptor. do,
The receiving device according to (11) above.
(19) An AV decoder that decodes the data of the broadcast program itself,
A synthesizer that synthesizes the decrypted broadcast program and the result of executing the application,
The receiving device according to (11) above.
(20) A control information receiving step for receiving control information related to an application for a broadcast program, and
An application data control step that controls the execution of an application based on the control information received in the control information receiving step, and
Have,
In the application data control step, based on the acquisition destination information and group identification information of the control information for each group in which the application should be operated independently, which is indicated by the application service descriptor arranged in the predetermined signaling table. Get the application data to run,
Receiving method.

10 ... Digital broadcasting system 11 ... Broadcast transmission system, 12 ... Receiver 301 ... Clock unit, 302 ... Signal transmission unit, 303 ... Video encoder 304 ... Audio encoder, 305 ... Caption encoder 306 ... Signaling encoder, 307 ... File encoder 308 ... Information system, 309 ... TLV signaling encoder 310 ... IP service multiplexer 311 ... TLV multiplexer 312 ... Modulation / transmission unit 401 ... Tuner / demodulator unit, 402 ... Demultiplexer 403 ... Clock unit, 404 ... Video decoder 405 ... Audio decoder, 406 ... Caption decoder 407 ... Application data control unit, 408 ... Cache memory 409 ... Data broadcasting application engine 410 ... System control unit 411 ... Synthesis unit 412 ... IP interface 1300 ... Application distribution system system 1310 ... Program production station, 1311 ... AV encoder 1312 ... Application generation unit, 1313 ... multiplexer 1320 ... Distribution station 1321 ... Application generation unit, 1322 ... multiplexer 1330 ... Distribution station 1331 ... Application generation unit, 1332 ... Encoder

Claims (2)

A transmission step that sends the application information table associated with the location information and default flags of the application information table contained in the application service descriptor placed in the table that describes the information that makes up the package.
Transmission method with. A transmitter that sends the application information table related to the location information and default flags of the application information table contained in the application service descriptor placed in the table that describes the information that makes up the package.
A transmitter equipped with.

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