JP7300250B2 - Receiving device and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a receiving device and program.

In recent years, research and development for services realized by linking broadcasting and communication (referred to as "broadcasting and communication linking services") have been active. "Hybridcast" (hybridcast) is one of representative examples of broadcast and communication cooperation services. The Hybridcast service started in 2013, and a plurality of broadcasting stations provide services using applications written in HTML5 (hereinafter referred to as "apps"). In Hybridcast, it is possible to use the function of cooperation between a television (receiving device) and a linked terminal device (smartphone or tablet terminal). Specifically, the HTML5 application (hereinafter referred to as the "Hybridcast application") that runs on the TV and the web application that runs on the companion application installed on the linked terminal device (hereinafter simply referred to as the "web application"). You can send and receive text messages to and from each other.

An Application Information Table (AIT) is used to specify and control the Hybridcast application. The AIT is multiplexed with broadcast waves and transmitted to the receiver. By referring to the AIT extracted from the broadcast wave, the receiving device can obtain various information related to the application such as the URL from which the Hybridcast application is obtained. Thus, AIT can be used to launch and control the Hybridcast application.

Non-Patent Document 1 describes the cooperation between a television (receiving device) and a cooperation terminal device in a broadcasting and communication cooperation system.

"IPTV Regulations Broadcasting and Communication Linkage System Specifications IPTVFJ STD-0010 Version 2.1", "Chapter 12 Terminal Linkage" General Incorporated Association IPTV Forum, March 7, 2016, pp. 53-81

As described above, in the conventional technology, it is possible for the television and the cooperation terminal device to operate in cooperation in the broadcast-communication cooperation system. However, the conventional technology cannot acquire AIT from resources other than broadcast waves or instruct acquisition of AIT from resources other than broadcast waves. Further, the Hybridcast application cannot be activated unless the receiving device acquires the AIT from the broadcast wave or acquires the AIT according to an instruction from the broadcast wave. Moreover, there is a problem that the Hybridcast application cannot be started from the operation of the linked terminal device that is linked with the receiving device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a receiving device and a program capable of starting an application of a broadcast-communication cooperation system with an operation of a cooperation terminal device as a starting point. .

[1] In order to solve the above problems, a receiving device according to one aspect of the present invention has a function of receiving a broadcast signal, and acquires an application information table upon receiving an application activation request from an external terminal device. an application information table management function unit that acquires the application information table from outside the broadcast in response to the application information table acquisition request from the receiver function unit; and an application execution function unit that activates an application acquired based on the application and controls execution of the application.

[2] Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described receiving device, the receiver function unit acquires information on the channel selection state of the broadcast signal, and when requesting acquisition of the application information table, requests the application information table corresponding to the information on the channel selection state, and the application information table management function unit receives application information corresponding to the information on the channel selection state provided from the receiver function unit. It is characterized by obtaining a table.

[3] Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, the receiving device further includes a priority application information table determination function unit that determines which application information table among the plurality of application information tables should be prioritized, The application information table management function unit acquires the application information table from outside the broadcast as a first application information table, and the receiver function unit acquires the second application information table multiplexed with the broadcast signal. The priority application information table determination function unit selects which of the first application information table and the second application information table based on determination information set inside the receiving device. is characterized by determining whether to give priority to

[4] Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, the receiving device further comprises a priority application information table determination function unit that determines which application information table among the plurality of application information tables should be prioritized, The application information table management function unit acquires the application information table from outside the broadcast as a first application information table, and the receiver function unit acquires the second application information table multiplexed with the broadcast signal. The priority application information table determination function unit determines the first application information table and the second application information table based on determination information extracted from the broadcast signal received by the receiver function unit. It is characterized by determining which of the application information table and the application information table should be prioritized.

[5] Further, one aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to function as the receiving device according to any one of [1] to [4].

[A1] Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, a receiver function unit that has a function of receiving a broadcast signal and requests acquisition of an application information table when an application activation command is received from an external terminal device; an application information table management function unit that obtains the application information table from outside the broadcast in response to a request for obtaining the application information table from the receiver function unit; and an application that is obtained based on the application information table. , and an application execution function unit that controls execution of the application.

[A2] Further, one aspect of the present invention has a function of receiving a broadcast signal, and acquires an application information table upon receiving an application activation command included in the broadcast signal or an application activation command from outside the broadcast. a requesting receiver function unit, an application information table management function unit that acquires the application information table from outside the broadcast in response to the application information table acquisition request from the receiver function unit, and based on the application information table an application execution function unit for activating an application acquired by the method and controlling the execution of the application; and a priority determination function unit that determines, based on determination information set inside the reception device, the priority determination function unit performs an application activation command included in the broadcast signal and the The receiving device is characterized in that it determines which of an application activation command from outside the broadcast should be prioritized.

[A3] Further, one aspect of the present invention has a function of receiving a broadcast signal, and acquires an application information table upon receiving an application activation command included in the broadcast signal or an application activation command from outside the broadcast. a requesting receiver function unit, an application information table management function unit that acquires the application information table from outside the broadcast in response to the application information table acquisition request from the receiver function unit, and based on the application information table an application execution function unit for activating an application acquired by the method and controlling the execution of the application; and a priority determination function unit for determining whether the application start command included in the broadcast signal or the application start command from outside the broadcast is fixed as predetermined. This receiving device is characterized in that priority is given to

[A4] Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, in the receiving device described above, when the application executed based on the application activation command from outside the broadcast ends, the priority determination function unit again performs the It is characterized in that it is determined which of the application start command included in the broadcast signal and the application start command from outside the broadcast should be prioritized.

[A5] Further, one aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to function as the receiving device according to any one of [A1] to [A4].

[B1] Further, one aspect of the present invention has a function of receiving a broadcast signal, and acquires an application information table upon receiving an application activation command included in the broadcast signal or an application activation command from outside the broadcast. a requesting receiver function unit, an application information table management function unit that acquires the application information table from outside the broadcast in response to the application information table acquisition request from the receiver function unit, and based on the application information table an application execution function unit for activating an application acquired by the method and controlling the execution of the application; and a priority determination function unit for determining, wherein the priority determination function unit is included in the broadcast signal based on determination information extracted from the broadcast signal received by the receiver function unit. and determining which of the application start command received from the broadcaster and the application start command from outside the broadcast should be prioritized.

[B2] Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described receiving device, when the application executed based on the application start command from outside the broadcast ends, the priority determination function unit again performs the It is characterized in that it is determined which of the application start command included in the broadcast signal and the application start command from outside the broadcast should be prioritized.

[B3] Further, one aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to function as the receiving device according to [B1] or [B2].

ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it becomes possible to start the application of a broadcasting-communication cooperation service on the receiving device side from an external terminal device as a starting point.

1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an entire broadcast-communication cooperation system according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing functional configurations of a receiving device and a linking terminal device according to the same embodiment; FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a user interface in a procedure until cooperation between the receiving device and the linked terminal device according to the same embodiment is completed; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure and data example of a CH (channel)-broadcasting station list according to the same embodiment; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure and data example of an AIT URL list according to the same embodiment; FIG. 4 is a first sequence diagram showing an operation sequence including exchanges between devices or between functional units constituting the broadcast-communication cooperation system according to the same embodiment; FIG. 11 is a second sequence diagram showing an operation sequence including exchanges between devices or between functional units constituting the broadcast-communication cooperation system according to the same embodiment; FIG. 11 is a third sequence diagram showing an operation sequence including exchanges between devices or between functional units constituting the broadcast-communication cooperation system according to the same embodiment; FIG. 12 is a fourth sequence diagram showing an operation sequence including exchanges between devices or between functional units constituting the broadcast-communication cooperation system according to the same embodiment; FIG. 12 is a fifth sequence diagram showing an operation sequence including exchanges between devices or between functional units constituting the broadcast-communication cooperation system according to the same embodiment; FIG. 10 is a sixth sequence diagram showing an operation sequence including exchanges between devices or between functional units constituting the broadcast-communication cooperation system according to the same embodiment; FIG. 11 is a seventh sequence diagram showing an operation sequence including exchanges between devices or between functional units constituting the broadcast-communication cooperation system according to the same embodiment;

An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the entire broadcast-communication cooperation system according to the embodiment. As illustrated, the broadcast-communication collaboration system 1 includes a receiver 2 , a linkage terminal device 3 , a broadcast transmission device 5 , a service server device group 6 , and the Internet 100 . The broadcast transmission device 5 and the service server device group 6 are devices on the side of transmitting contents by the broadcast-communication cooperation system. The receiving device 2 and the linked terminal device 3 are devices on the side of receiving content. The broadcast transmission device 5 is a device owned and operated by a broadcaster. The service server device group 6 includes a plurality of server devices, and is owned and operated by a broadcaster or its affiliated business operators. The receiving device 2 and the linking terminal device 3 are, for example, devices that exist at home or in the office. For example, there are one or more receiving devices 2 and one or more cooperation terminal devices in a home. Although one receiving device 2 and one linking terminal device 3 are shown in this figure, the broadcast-communications linking system 1 actually includes a large number of receiving devices 2 and a large number of linking terminal devices 3 . An outline of the function of each device will be described later.

Although there are multiple forms of broadcast-communication cooperation service, in this embodiment, it is assumed that a digital broadcasting service and an Internet service cooperate with each other on a Hybridcast-compatible television based on the Hybridcast technical specifications. The hybrid technical specifications are defined in the following document.
Literature [IPTV Regulations Broadcasting Communication Linkage System Specifications IPTVFJ STD-0010 Version 2.1, General Incorporated Association IPTV Forum, March 7, 2016]
Literature [IPTV Regulation HTML5 Browser Specification IPTVFJ STD-0011 Version 2.2, General Incorporated Association IPTV Forum, March 7, 2016]

The receiving device 2 (Hybridcast-compatible television) receives an application distributed by broadcasting or communication (such as the Internet), and executes the application to acquire content on the Internet. This enables the user to use the broadcast-communication cooperation service. Furthermore, in accordance with the Hybridcast technical specifications, the companion applications installed in the receiving device 2 and the linked terminal device 3 cooperate with each other.

The Internet 100 is a communication line that enables the receiving device 2 and the linking terminal device 3 to communicate with the service server device group 6 . In the Internet 100, for example, communication using Internet Protocol (IP) is performed.

The receiving device 2 receives broadcast signals (broadcast waves) and presents broadcast content including video and audio to users (viewers). The receiving device 2 functions as a television receiver. In other words, the receiving device 2 displays the video included in the broadcast content on the screen and outputs the audio included in the broadcast content from a speaker or the like. Also, the receiving device 2 has a function related to the broadcast and communication cooperation service, and for this purpose, communicates with devices included in the service server device group 6 via the Internet 100 . Also, the receiving device 2 performs cooperative operation with the cooperation terminal device 3 . Therefore, the receiving device 2 communicates with the linked terminal device 3 via short-distance communication means such as a wireless LAN.

The cooperation terminal device 3 is, for example, an information device such as a smart phone (smartphone), a wearable terminal, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer (PC). The cooperation terminal device 3 communicates with devices included in the service server device group 6 via the Internet 100 . Also, the linking terminal device 3 communicates with the receiving device 2 via short-range communication means such as a wireless LAN. Thereby, the cooperation terminal device 3 performs cooperation operation with the receiving device 2 .

A broadcast transmission device 5 transmits a broadcast signal. Broadcast signals are transmitted as radio waves or as cable television signals.

The service server device group 6 includes each device that functions as a server for the broadcast-communication cooperation service. The service server device group 6 includes at least an AIT URL list server device 61 , an AIT server device 62 , a hybridcast application server device 63 and a web application server device 64 . The functions of each server device listed here are as follows. Note that the web application server device 64 is also called a "web application server device".

The AIT URL list server device 61 is a server device that provides an AIT URL list. The AIT URL list is data of a list that holds a correspondence relationship between a broadcasting station (or channel or program) and a URL indicating the location of the AIT corresponding to the broadcasting station or the like. The AIT URL list server device 61 is internally provided with storage means such as a magnetic hard disk device or a semiconductor memory, and holds the AIT URL list in such storage means. AIT is an abbreviation for "Application Information Table." URL is an abbreviation for "Uniform Resource Locator." Details of the AIT URL list are described further below with reference to another figure.

The AIT server device 62 is a server device that provides the above AIT. The AIT server device 62 holds the AIT in storage means, and returns the AIT upon request from the client. The URLs provided by the AIT URL list server device 61 may indicate resource locations within this AIT server device 62 .

The Hybridcast application server device 63 is a server device that provides Hybridcast application code. The Hybridcast application server device 63 stores Hybridcast applications in internal storage means, and returns Hybridcast applications in response to requests from clients. The resource location of the application within the Hybridcast application server device 63 is indicated by, for example, the URL contained within the AIT.

The web application server device 64 is a server device that provides web application code.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the functional configuration of each of the receiving device 2 and the linking terminal device 3. As shown in FIG. As shown, the diagram shows a hierarchy of functions. In the following, the functional configuration of the receiving device 2 will be described first, and then the functional configuration of the linking terminal device 3 will be described.

As illustrated, the receiving device 2 is implemented using a computer and includes four layers of functions: hardware 21, an operating system 22, a resident function unit 23, and an HTML5 application execution function unit 24. be. Note that HTML is an abbreviation for "Hyper Text Markup Language".

The HTML5 application execution function unit 24 is a browser having a function of executing an application written in HTML5. That is, the HTML5 application execution function unit 24 can execute a Hybridcast application written in HTML5. The HTML5 application execution function unit 24 activates an application obtained based on AIT and controls execution of the application. Hereinafter, the HTML5 application execution function unit may be referred to as "Hybridcast browser", "HC browser", and "application execution function unit". Also, the Hybridcast application may be referred to as an "HC application".

The resident function unit 23 provides the application executed by the Hybridcast browser 24 with a receiver function for receiving broadcasts and a link function for linking with the linked terminal device 3 . Specifically, the resident function unit 23 provides these functions to the application through an API (Application Programming Interface) defined as the Hybridcast technical specifications.

The functions of the Hybridcast browser 24 and the resident function unit 23 may be implemented by programs.
The operating system 22 manages the various resources (hardware resources, software resources) of the computer, distributes these resources appropriately to the upper layer functions, and controls the functions of the entire receiver so that they cooperate correctly. .
The hardware 21 includes a CPU, a storage unit (semiconductor memory, magnetic hard disk device, etc.), an input/output device, etc., and enables the functions of the receiving device 2 to be physically executed.

Here, the resident function unit 23 will be described in more detail.
The resident function unit 23 includes an AIT management function unit 231 (application information table management function unit), a receiver function unit 232 and a terminal cooperation function unit 233 .

The AIT management function unit 231 acquires and manages an AIT (Application Information Table), which is information for controlling applications in Hybridcast.
The AIT management function unit 231 acquires the AIT from outside the broadcast in response to the AIT acquisition request from the receiver function unit 232 . Also, the AIT management function unit 231 acquires the AIT corresponding to the channel selection state information given from the receiver function unit 232 .
AIT acquired from outside broadcasting may be called a first AIT (first application information table). Also, the AIT acquired from the broadcast signal may be called a second AIT (second application information table).

The AIT management function unit 231 internally includes a priority AIT determination function unit 2311 (priority application information table determination function unit). The priority AIT determination function unit 2311 determines which AIT should be preferentially used to control the application when there are a plurality of competing AITs. A plurality of conflicting AITs is a situation that occurs, for example, when two types of AITs with different contents are acquired from both the broadcasting side and the communication side (outside the broadcasting) for one application.
The priority AIT determination function unit 2311 prioritizes which of the first AIT and the second AIT based on a determination flag (determination information) set inside the receiving device 2 (for example, inside the priority AIT determination function unit 2311). determine whether Alternatively, the priority AIT determination function unit 2311 determines which of the first AIT and the second AIT should be prioritized based on the determination flag (determination information) extracted from the broadcast signal.

Receiver function unit 232 has the function of receiving a broadcast signal and providing information extracted from the broadcast signal to an application running on Hybridcast browser 24 . Also, the receiver function unit 232 includes a function to control applications installed on the resident function unit 23 .
Further, when the receiver function unit 232 receives an application activation request from an external terminal device (the linked terminal device 3), the receiver function unit 232 requests the AIT management function unit 231 to acquire the AIT.
In addition, the receiver function unit 232 acquires information on the channel selection state of the broadcast signal, and when requesting acquisition of the AIT, the receiver function unit 232 acquires the information on the channel selection state (specifying the selected channel number and broadcasting station). It requests the AIT corresponding to the information to be provided).

The terminal cooperation function unit 233 has a function of controlling the cooperation operation with the cooperation terminal device 3 . The terminal cooperation function unit 233 includes a DIAL server function unit 2331 and a WebSocket server function unit 2332 inside.
The DIAL server function unit 2331 has a function as a server for communication by DIAL (Discovery and Launch). For example, communication can be performed between the linked terminal device 3 side and the DIAL server function unit 2331 .
The WebSocket server function unit 2332 has a function as a server for communication by WebSocket. The WebSocket server function unit 2332 can establish a session with each internal function unit of the receiving device 2 and the linked terminal device 3 and communicate through the session.

On the other hand, the cooperation terminal device 3 is also realized using a computer. The linked terminal device 3 includes three layers of functions: hardware 31 , an operating system 32 , and a native application execution function unit 33 .

The native application execution function unit 33 executes applications under the control of the operating system 32 . One of the applications executed by the native application execution function unit 33 is the companion application 331 .
In this embodiment, the cooperative operation between the receiving device 2 and the linked terminal device 3 operates inside the Hybridcast application that operates in the Hybridcast browser 24 of the receiving device 2 and the companion application 331 in the linked terminal device 3. It is implemented between web applications that
In other words, the Hybridcast application on the receiving device 2 side and the web application on the linked terminal device 3 side exchange text messages with each other using an API defined as the Hybridcast specification. Based on the content of the text message, the Hybridcast application on the receiving device 2 side and the web application on the linked terminal device 3 side operate in cooperation.

The operating system 32 and hardware 31 on the linking terminal device 3 side have the same functions as the operating system 22 and hardware 21 described for the receiving device 2 side, respectively. Examples of operating systems used on the side of the linked terminal device 3 are iOS, Android, and the like.

As described above, in this embodiment, the WebSocket server function unit 2332 is provided on the receiving device 2 . Alternatively, however, the function of the WebSocket server may be placed on the cooperation terminal device 3 .

Next, the user interface will be explained.
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a user interface until the reception device 2 and the linking terminal device 3 complete cooperation. Specifically, the drawing shows user operations, screen transitions of the receiving apparatus 2, and screen transitions of the cooperation terminal apparatus 3 in a series of procedures until both apparatuses complete cooperation.
As a premise of the illustrated procedure, the reception device 2 is already powered on, the Hybridcast application has not yet started in the reception device 2, and the companion application 331 on the linked terminal device 3 side has already started. is. From this state, the user's operation until the cooperation between the receiving device 2 and the cooperation terminal device 3 is completed, and the screen transition of each device will be described in the following six steps (a) to (f). That is, the six steps of (a) search for a receiving device, (b) selection of a receiving device, (c) pairing, (d) channel selection switching, (e) activation of the Hybridcast application, and (f) acquisition of a web application. is.

(a) Searching for a receiving device: The companion application 331 on the side of the linking terminal device 3 receives information within a network (such as a wireless LAN that enables communication between the linking terminal device 3 and the receiving device 2) for some reason. Start searching for device 2. The trigger is, for example, that the user presses a "device search" button implemented on the web application. Upon detecting the search by the linked terminal device 3 , the receiving device 2 returns device information and API information of the receiving device 2 . As a result, the companion application 331 on the side of the linked terminal device 3 obtains a list of device information and API information of the receiving devices 2 existing within the network.

(b) Selection of receiving device: The companion application 331 on the linked terminal device 3 side selects one receiving device 2 from the obtained device information and API information list. In order to select one receiving device 2, for example, there is a method in which a device list is displayed on the screen of the linked terminal device 3, and the user selects and presses one from the list.

(c) Pairing: The companion application 331 on the linked terminal device 3 side issues a pairing request to the selected receiving device 2 . Here, processing for authenticating the pairing request source is performed. As a method of authentication, for example, a random PIN (Personal Identification Number) code is displayed on the screen of the receiving device 2, and the user enters the code on the web application on the linked terminal device 3 side, and both codes are entered. There are other methods of matching.

(d) Switching channel selection: If the above pairing is successful, it becomes possible to select the channel of the receiving device 2 from the linked terminal device 3 . In other words, it is possible to select a broadcasting station to be received by the receiving device 2 from the linked terminal device 3 side. As a trigger for channel selection switching, for example, there is a method in which the user presses a "channel selection" button implemented on the web application.
(e) Activation of the Hybridcast application: After the above channel selection is performed, the Hybridcast application is activated.
(f) Acquisition of web application: Following activation of the Hybridcast application, a web application corresponding to the program (broadcast station) selected on the receiving device 2 side is activated.

Next, main data handled by the receiving device 2 in this embodiment will be described.
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure and data example of the CH-broadcaster list. The CH-broadcasting station list is configured as tabular data, for example. The CH-broadcasting station list is data that associates remote control key IDs (channel numbers) with broadcasting stations. Changing the channel selection state (channel to be received) of the receiving device 2 from the linked terminal device 3 cooperating with the receiving device 2 can be executed by designating the remote control key ID. However, the correspondence between remote control key IDs and broadcasting stations depends on the value range. For example, the remote control key ID number 1 corresponds to NHK General TV in the Kanto-Koshinetsu area, but corresponds to another broadcasting station (commercial broadcasting) in the Hokkaido area. Therefore, in order to select an arbitrary channel from the linked terminal device 3, it is possible to refer to the CH-broadcasting station list depending on the area. By appropriately providing the CH-broadcasting station list in this manner, the linked terminal device 3 and the like can grasp the relationship between the remote control key ID and the broadcasting station to be selected.
For example, the receiver function unit 232 of the receiver 2 can pass the CH-broadcast station list to the web application via the companion application 331 of the linked terminal device 3 .

In the example shown in FIG. 4, remote control key ID number 1 corresponds to "NHK General". In addition, remote control key ID number 2 corresponds to "NHK E tele". Remote control key ID number 3 does not correspond to a broadcasting station. The remote control key IDs after number 4 correspond to other broadcasting stations, respectively.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure and data example of the AIT URL list. The AIT URL list is configured as tabular data, for example. The AIT URL list is data that associates a broadcasting station with a URL representing the location of the AIT of the application for that broadcasting station. In other words, once the broadcasting station is specified, the URL indicating the location of the AIT can be obtained by referring to this AIT URL list. If the URL of the target AIT can be obtained, the AIT can be accessed. In this embodiment, this AIT URL list is stored in a location accessible from the AIT management function unit 231 in the receiving device 2 . Here, the location accessible from the AIT management function unit 231 is not limited to the inside of the receiving device 2 . For example, the AIT management function unit 231 may refer to an AIT URL list stored outside the receiving device 2 via a communication network. A case where the AIT URL list is stored inside the AIT management function unit 231 and a case where it is stored in the AIT URL list server device will be described later.

In the example shown in FIG. 5, a certain URL is associated with the broadcasting station "NHK synthesis". Further, another URL is associated with the broadcasting station "NHK E Tele". Further, other broadcasting stations are also associated with other URLs.

Next, the sequence of operations in the broadcast-communication cooperation system 1 will be described.
6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12 are sequence diagrams showing an operation sequence including exchanges between devices constituting the broadcast-communication cooperation system 1. FIG. Each of these figures will be described below.

FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram showing the procedure of (a) searching for a receiving device, (b) selecting a receiving device, and (c) pairing.
Steps S1 to S4 are the process of searching for the receiver in (a).
In step S1, the companion app running on the link terminal device 3 starts a process of searching for the receiving device 2 based on a trigger such as pressing of a button by the user.
In step S2, the companion application on the cooperation terminal device 3 searches for the receiving device 2 in the network using the DIAL protocol. Specifically, the companion application 331 transmits a device search message by radio signal. The DIAL server function unit 2331 on the receiving device 2 receives the device search message.
Next, in step S3, the DIAL server function unit 2331 returns a message including device information and API information to the cooperation terminal device 3 as a response to the received device search message. This device information is, for example, a set of the name of the service provided by the device (receiving device 2), the IP address of the device, and the URL of the service. The companion application 331 of the cooperation terminal device 3 receives the returned message.
Note that if there are a plurality of receiving devices 2 in the wireless network accessed by the linking terminal device 3 , each of the plurality of receiving devices 2 returns a message to the linking terminal device 3 .
Next, in step S4, the companion application 331 of the linked terminal device 3 saves the received information. That information is a set of service name, device IP address, and credential information. The credential information is specifically authentication information for receiving the service of the receiving device 2 .

The following steps S5 to S9 are the process of (b) selection of a receiver and (c) pairing.
Here, a procedure for pairing authentication is executed between the receiving device 2 and the linked terminal device 3 . Pairing authentication is performed using pairing key information, as shown in steps S5 to S7.
In step S5, the receiver function unit 232 of the receiver 2 displays information on the pairing key required for pairing on the screen. The user can visually recognize the displayed pairing key information.
Next, in step S6, the companion application 331 of the linked terminal device 3 displays a list of the receiving device 2 and services on the screen. The user selects the receiving device 2 and service to be paired from the displayed receiving device 2 and service by touch panel operation or the like. Companion app 331 requests the user to enter a pairing key to connect to the selected service. Companion application 331 then accepts a pairing key input by the user. This pairing key is information displayed on the receiving device 2 side in step S5 and visually recognized by the user.
Next, in step S<b>7 , the companion application 331 of the linked terminal device 3 transmits a pairing request to the receiving device 2 . This pairing request message includes an ID for identifying the linked terminal device 3 or its user, and credential information. This credential information also includes the pairing key information entered in step S6.

Next, in step S8, upon receiving the pairing request, the DIAL server function unit 2331 of the receiving device 2 checks the pairing key for authentication. When the authentication succeeds, the DIAL server function unit 2331 issues a credential to the companion application 331 on the linked terminal device 3 side. In other words, the DIAL server function unit 2331 transmits a response message containing the credential information to the companion application 331 of the linked terminal device 3 .
Next, in step S9, the companion application 331 of the linked terminal device 3 saves the received new credential information. This new credential information is for authorizing a request from the linked terminal device 3 to the application on the receiving device 2 . After acquiring the credentials, the companion application 331 requests the DIAL server function unit 2331 to send a list of available applications. The DIAL server function unit 2331 acquires a list (referred to as an “application list”) of pairs of application names, URLs, and application states (information indicating whether the application can be used, etc.) from the receiver function unit 232, and is returned to the companion application 331 on the linked terminal device 3 side.

FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram showing the procedure of (d) channel selection switching processing. After the processing of FIG. 6 is completed, this channel selection switching processing is performed.
In step S10, the web application requests the companion application 331 for a CH-broadcast station list. The CH-broadcasting station list is list data representing the correspondence between channels and broadcasting stations, as described with reference to FIG. The linked terminal device 3 grasps the correspondence relationship between channels and broadcasting stations from the CH-broadcasting station list. A channel is a remote control key ID used for channel selection. Upon receiving the request for the CH-broadcast station list, the companion application 331 searches for the remote control application from the application list. The companion app can then run the remote control app.
In step S11, the companion application 331 searches for a remote control application in the obtained application list, and requests the DIAL server function unit 2331 of the receiving device 2 for a CH-broadcast station list.
Next, in step S12, the DIAL server function section 2331 requests the receiver function section 232 for the CH-broadcast station list.
Next, in step S 13 , the receiver function section 232 reads out the stored CH-broadcast station list and provides it to the DIAL server function section 2331 .
Next, in step S14, the DIAL server function unit 2331 of the receiving device 2 returns the CH-broadcast station list to the companion application 331 of the linked terminal device 3. FIG.
Next, in step S15, the companion application 331 that has received the CH-broadcast station list passes the CH-broadcast station list to the web application.
In step S16, the web application receives and stores the CH-station list.

Here, the web application performs channel selection processing according to a user's operation or the like. In other words, the web application determines which broadcasting station or which channel to select through the user's operation. The web application identifies the channel corresponding to the station selected by the user by referring to the CH-station list. That is, the web application specifies the remote control key ID for tuning.

In step S<b>17 , the web application sends a channel change request to companion application 331 . At this time, the web application designates the channel (CH, remote control key ID) corresponding to the selected broadcasting station (the broadcasting station to which the channel is to be changed).
Next, in step S<b>18 , the companion application 331 transmits the channel change request received in step S<b>17 to the DIAL server function unit 2331 of the receiving device 2 . This request is a request to change the broadcast channel received by the receiving device 2 .
Next, in step S19, the DIAL server function section 2331 of the receiving device 2 requests the receiver function section 232 to select the designated channel. The receiver function unit 232 that receives this request selects the designated channel. The receiving device 2 displays broadcast video of the newly selected broadcasting station and outputs broadcast audio.
Next, in step S20, the receiver function section 232 passes to the DIAL server function section 2331 a response containing information on the tuning state after tuning.
Next, in step S<b>21 , the DIAL server function unit 2331 returns a response including information on the channel selection state to the companion application 331 of the linked terminal device 3 . The information on the channel selection state includes information on the channel being selected in the receiving device 2 .
Next, in step S22, the companion application 331 passes the response received from the receiving device 2 to the web application.
Next, in step S23, the web application saves the channel selection state information included in the received response. The web application also displays information on the channel selection state on the screen of the linked terminal device 3 as necessary.
As described above, the process of switching the channel selection of the receiving device 2 is performed starting from the operation by the user on the linked terminal device 3 side.

8, 9, 10, and 11 are sequence diagrams showing the procedure of (e) the process of starting the Hybridcast application. After the channel selection in the process of FIG. 7 is completed, the Hybridcast browser is activated by the process described below to establish a communication path between the receiving device 2 and the linked terminal device 3 . In the present embodiment, the Hybridcast application running on the Hybridcast browser and the web application on the linked terminal device 3 side communicate using WebSockets.

First, in step S21 of FIG. 8, the web application requests the companion application 331 to activate the Hybridcast (HC) browser on the receiving device 2 side.
Next, in step S22, the companion application 331 requests the DIAL server function unit 2331 of the receiving device 2 to activate the Hybridcast browser. At this time, the companion application 331 hands over the credential obtained during the pairing operation to the DIAL server function unit 2331 .
Next, in step S23, the DIAL server function unit 2331 authenticates the application. Specifically, the DIAL server function unit 2331 confirms the received credential, and only when it is recognized as an application for which the pairing operation has already been completed, proceeds to subsequent processing.
In step S24, the DIAL server function unit 2331 requests the receiver function unit 232 to activate the Hybridcast browser.
In step S25, the receiver function unit 232 that has received the activation request in step S24 acquires the current channel selection state. The channel selection state includes information on the broadcast channel and broadcast station currently being received by the receiving device 2 .
Next, in step S26, the receiver function unit 232 requests the AIT management function unit 231 to acquire the AIT corresponding to the application to be activated. At this time, the receiver function unit 232 also passes the information on the channel selection state acquired in step S25 to the AIT management function unit 231 .
When the process of step S26 is completed, the sequence shown in FIG. 9 is performed.

In the procedure shown in FIG. 9, the AIT management function unit 231 acquires the AIT for the application of the corresponding broadcasting station. At this time, the AIT management function unit 231 refers to the AIT URL list, and this AIT URL list is held by the AIT management function unit 231 itself or by the external AIT URL list server device 61. Processing is divided depending on the case.

When the AIT management function unit 231 itself holds the AIT URL list, the processing from step S31 is executed. In this case, the AIT URL list is already written in the internal memory or the like when the receiver 2 is shipped, for example.
In step S31, the AIT management function unit 231 refers to the AIT URL list stored by itself, using the channel selection state (information specifying the broadcasting station) as a key.
As a result, in step S32, the AIT management function unit 231 obtains the URL of the target AIT. When the processing of this step ends, the process moves to step S41 in FIG.

When the AIT URL list is held by the external AIT URL list server device 61, the process from step S33 is executed.
In step S33, the AIT management function unit 231 manages the AIT
It requests the URL list server device 61 to acquire the AIT URL list.
Then, in step S<b>34 , the AIT URL list server device 61 transmits the AIT URL list to the AIT management function unit 231 .
In step S35, the AIT management function unit 231 obtains the target AIT URL by referring to the received AIT URL list. When the processing of this step ends, the process moves to step S41 in FIG.

In addition, in the processing from steps S33 to S35, the receiving device 2 may be provided with a cache memory, and the AIT URL list may be stored in the cache memory. In that case, the AIT management function unit 231 performs AIT management as described in step S33.
It requests the URL list server device 61 to acquire the AIT URL list. When the AIT URL list can be obtained, the AIT management function unit 231 refers to the AIT URL list and stores it in the cache memory. AIT for some reason such as communication failure
If the URL list cannot be acquired, the AIT management function unit 231 refers to the AIT URL list stored in the cache memory.

FIG. 10 shows a processing sequence after the AIT management function unit 231 acquires the AIT URL.
In step S41, the AIT management function unit 231 requests the AIT server device 62 indicated by the acquired URL to acquire the AIT.
In step S<b>42 , the AIT server device 62 returns the requested AIT to the AIT management function unit 231 .
In step S43, the AIT management function unit 231 saves the received AIT.

Next, the processing from steps S44 to S46 is optional processing. When the AIT is multiplexed in the broadcast signal sent out from the broadcast sending device 5, the AIT management function unit 231 adds the AIT (referred to as "non-broadcast AIT") obtained by the procedure shown in FIG. 9 to the broadcast signal. Both of the multiplexed AIT (referred to as "broadcast AIT") are acquired. Then, when the contents of both the non-broadcast AIT and the broadcast AIT contradict each other, this contradiction can cause the receiving device 2 or the like to operate unexpectedly by the service provider. In order to avoid such an unexpected operation, the priority AIT is determined by the procedure from steps S44 to S46 when the AIT is also obtained from the broadcast signal.
That is, in step S44, the AIT management function unit 231 calls the priority AIT determination function unit 2311 to confirm which AIT has priority.
In response to this, the priority AIT determination function unit 2311 determines which of the non-broadcast AIT and the broadcast AIT should be prioritized. Therefore, the priority AIT determination function unit 2311 executes either the first determination method or the second determination method described below. However, the priority AIT determination function unit 2311 has a function of executing both the first determination method and the second determination method, and one of these methods is appropriately selected to execute the determination. good too.
When using the first determination method (internal setting method), the priority AIT determination function unit 2311 refers to the value of a preset determination flag (determination information). If the value of the determination flag is "0", priority is given to non-broadcast AIT. If the value of the determination flag is "1", priority is given to the broadcast AIT. When using the first determination method, a determination flag is provided in a memory area accessible from the priority AIT determination function unit 2311, and its value is set at a predetermined timing (for example, at factory shipment).
When using the second determination method (broadcast signal multiplexing method), the priority AIT determination function unit 2311 refers to the value of the determination flag (determination information) multiplexed on the broadcast signal. As in the case of the first determination method, if the value of the determination flag is "0", priority is given to the non-broadcast AIT, and if the value of the determination flag is "1", priority is given to the broadcast AIT. Note that an area for the determination flag is reserved in, for example, a PMT (Program Map Table) in the broadcast signal. When using the second determination method, the broadcaster can also appropriately change which of the non-broadcast AIT and the broadcast AIT is prioritized.
Next, in step S<b>45 , the priority AIT determination function unit 2311 returns to the AIT management function unit 231 information indicating which AIT should be prioritized (for example, the determination flag value itself).
Next, in step S46, the AIT management function unit 231 determines the AIT to be prioritized among the non-broadcast AIT and the broadcast AIT.
When the receiving device 2 does not acquire the broadcast AIT, the processing from steps S44 to S46 is skipped and the process jumps to the next step S47.

As described above, the AIT management function unit 231 correctly acquires the target AIT (that is, the AIT of the currently selected broadcasting station) by the processing of step S47.
In step S<b>47 , the AIT management function unit 231 hands over the acquired AIT to the receiver function unit 232 .
In step S48, the receiver function unit 232 saves the received AIT.

Next, the sequence shown in FIG. 11 is performed.
In step S51, the receiver function unit 232 requests the Hybridcast browser 24 to start the Hybridcast application using the AIT acquired in the sequence of FIG.
Then, in step S52, the Hybridcast browser 24 requests the Hybridcast application server device 63 to acquire the Hybridcast application based on the AIT acquired in step S51. Specifically, the Hybridcast browser 24 accesses the URL of the top page of the Hybridcast application described in the AIT.
In step S<b>53 , the Hybridcast application server device 63 returns the requested application to the Hybridcast browser 24 . Hybridcast browser 24 receives the application.
In step S54, the Hybridcast browser 24 loads the received application into the memory space in an executable form. When the application has been successfully loaded, the Hybridcast browser 24 proceeds to step S55.

In step S<b>55 , the Hybridcast browser 24 passes the status code and the URL of WebSocket (WS) to the receiver function unit 232 .
In step S56, the receiver function unit 232 saves the received status code and WebSocket URL.
In step S<b>57 , the receiver function section 232 passes the status code and the WebSocket URL to the DIAL server function section 2331 .
In step S58, the DIAL server function unit 2331 saves the received status code and WebSocket URL.
In step S59, the DIAL server function unit 2331 passes the status code and the WebSocket URL to the companion application 331 on the linked terminal device 3 side.
In step S60, the companion application 331 saves the received status code and WebSocket URL.
In step S61, the companion application 331 passes the status code and the WebSocket URL to the web application.
In step S62, the web application saves the received status code and WebSocket URL.
As described above, the status code and the WebSocket URL are sequentially delivered from the Hybridcast browser 24 on the receiving device 2 side to the web application on the linked terminal device 3 side. When this processing ends, the sequence shown in FIG. 12 is entered.

FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing a processing procedure for (f) obtaining a web application. In the figure, steps S71 to S74 are processing for establishing a session. Further, steps S75 to S80 are processing for message transmission. 2, the WebSocket server function unit 2332 is placed on the receiving device 2 in this embodiment. Also, as already mentioned, the function of the WebSocket server may be placed on the linking terminal device 3 instead of on the receiving device 2 .

In step S71, the companion application 331 accesses the WebSocket server function unit 2332 on the receiving device 2 side based on the WebSocket URL that has already been acquired, and requests establishment of a new session.
Next, in step S72, the WebSocket server function unit 2332 responds approval to the companion application 331 (ACK transmission).
Also, in step S73, the WebSocket server function unit 2332 establishes a session with the Hybridcast browser 24. FIG.
Furthermore, in step S74, the WebSocket server function unit 2332 establishes a session with the companion application 331. FIG.
A session is established by the above processing.

Next, in step S75, the Hybridcast browser 24 on the receiving device 2 requests acquisition and display of the web application by the companion application 331 according to the description of the Hybridcast application. At this time, the Hybridcast browser 24 passes the URL of the web application to the WebSocket server function unit 2232 using setURL. Also, the Hybridcast browser 24 passes the text message to the WebSocket server function unit 2232 by sendText( ).
In step S<b>76 , the WebSocket server function unit 2322 at least temporarily saves the information passed from the Hybridcast browser 24 .
In step S77, the WebSocket server function unit 2332 handles the destination.
In step S78, the WebSocket server function unit 2332 transmits the received URL and text message to the companion application 331 of the linked terminal device 3, which is the destination.
In step S79, companion app 331 saves the received URL and text message.
In step S80, companion application 331 uses the URL received in step S79 to request the web application code from web application server device 64 specified by the URL.
In step S<b>81 , the web application server device 64 returns the requested web application code to the companion application 331 .
In step S82, the companion application 331 saves the received web application code. Companion application 331 also activates the received web application. At this time, the companion app 331 can pass the text message passed in step S79 to the web app, if necessary. The launched web app can process according to the passed text message.

Next, a modified example of this embodiment will be described.
In the above embodiments, the receiving device includes the receiver function section, the application information table management function section, and the application execution function section.
The receiver function unit has a function of receiving broadcast signals. Further, when receiving an application activation request from an external terminal device, the receiver function unit requests acquisition of the application information table.
The application information table management function unit acquires the application information table from outside the broadcast in response to an application information table acquisition request from the receiver function unit.
The application execution function unit activates an application acquired based on the application information table and controls execution of the application.
Modifications are as follows.

[Modification A1]
The receiver function unit has a function of receiving broadcast signals. Also, when the receiver function unit receives an application activation command (corresponding to an application activation request) from an external terminal device, it requests acquisition of an application information table.
The application information table management function unit acquires the application information table from outside the broadcast in response to an application information table acquisition request from the receiver function unit. Information of the application information table to be acquired (location information (for example, URL) of the application information table, etc.) is included in the application activation command.
The application execution function unit activates an application acquired based on the application information table and controls execution of the application.
That is, in the modification A1, when receiving an application activation command from an external terminal device, the receiving device transmits the AIT (application information table) described in the application activation command to the external server device via, for example, the Internet. Get from The receiving device then activates the application based on the AIT.
In other words, the receiving device determines whether the execution of the application is permitted by the broadcasting station that provides the designated programming channel, regardless of the execution status of the data broadcast or the application when the request (application activation command) is received. Evaluate whether (possible or not). After that, the receiving device tunes to the organized channel and activates the designated application.

[Modification A2]
The receiver function unit has a function of receiving a broadcast signal as in the modification A1, and acquires an application information table upon receiving an application activation command included in the broadcast signal or an application activation command from outside the broadcast. demand.
As in the modification A1, the application information table management function unit acquires the application information table from outside the broadcast in response to the application information table acquisition request from the receiver function unit.
The application execution function unit activates an application acquired based on the application information table and controls execution of the application, as in the modification A1.
The priority determination function unit determines which application activation command should be given priority when the application activation command is received from both the broadcast signal and the non-broadcast. As a feature of the modification A2, this priority determination function unit prioritizes which of the application start command included in the broadcast signal and the application start command from outside the broadcast based on the determination information set inside the receiving device. determine whether
That is, the priority determination function unit has a function of substituting for the priority application information table determination function unit. This priority determination function unit is characterized by determining which of an application start command included in the broadcast signal and an application start command from outside the broadcast should be prioritized.
Based on the determination by the priority determination function unit, it is determined which application activation command is used to activate the application. The application information table to be acquired may differ depending on the determination result of the priority determination function unit. That is, the application to be executed may differ depending on the determination result of the priority determination function unit.
That is, in the modification A2, the receiving device determines whether to give priority to whether the application activation command is received from the broadcast signal or received from outside the broadcast, rather than the acquisition destination of the AIT (application information table). .

[Modification A3]
The receiver function unit has a function of receiving a broadcast signal as in the modification A1, and acquires an application information table upon receiving an application activation command included in the broadcast signal or an application activation command from outside the broadcast. demand.
As in the modification A1, the application information table management function unit acquires the application information table from outside the broadcast in response to the application information table acquisition request from the receiver function unit.
The application execution function unit activates an application acquired based on the application information table and controls execution of the application, as in the modification A1.
The priority determination function unit determines which application activation command should be given priority when the application activation command is received from both the broadcast signal and the non-broadcast. In the modification A3, the priority determination function unit gives priority to either the application start command included in the broadcast signal or the application start command from outside the broadcast, fixedly as determined in advance. As an example, the priority determination function unit gives priority to an application activation command acquired from outside the broadcast. As another example, the priority determination function unit gives priority to the application activation command acquired from the broadcast signal.

[Modification A4]
In modification A4, in addition to the function of either modification A2 or A3, the priority determination function unit has the following functions.
That is, when the application executed based on the application start command from outside the broadcast ends, the priority determination function unit again determines the application start command included in the broadcast signal and the application start command from outside the broadcast. Decide which one to give priority to.
In other words, the receiving device performs priority determination after the application ends, and activates the application according to the determination result.

[Modification B1]
The receiver function unit has a function of receiving a broadcast signal as in the modification A1, and acquires an application information table upon receiving an application activation command included in the broadcast signal or an application activation command from outside the broadcast. demand.
The application information table management function unit acquires the application information table from outside the broadcast in response to an application information table acquisition request from the receiver function unit, as in the modification A1.
The application execution function unit activates an application acquired based on the application information table and controls execution of the application, as in the modification A1.
Then, the priority determination function unit determines which application activation command is prioritized when receiving the application activation commands from both the broadcast signal and the non-broadcast. In modification B1, the priority determination function unit determines which of the application start command included in the broadcast signal and the application start command from outside the broadcast based on the determination information extracted from the broadcast signal received by the receiver function unit. is given priority.
That is, in the modification B1, the receiving device determines whether to give priority to whether the application start command is received from the broadcast signal or received from outside the broadcast, rather than the acquisition destination of the AIT (application information table). .

[Modification B2]
In the modified example B2, in addition to the functions of the modified example B1, the priority determination function unit has the following functions.
That is, when the application executed based on the application start command from outside the broadcast ends, the priority determination function unit again determines which of the application start command included in the broadcast signal and the application start command from outside the broadcast. Determine whether to give priority.
In other words, the receiving device performs priority determination after the application ends, and activates the application according to the determination result.

Information indicating which of the application start command included in the broadcast signal and the application start command from outside the broadcast should be prioritized is stored in the broadcast signal, for example, the PMT.

As described above, according to the present embodiment and the modified example, it is possible to acquire AIT from a resource other than a broadcast signal, starting from an operation on the side of a linked terminal device, in a broadcast-communication linked service such as Hybridcast. . In other words, it becomes possible to start the Hybridcast application starting from an operation on the linked terminal device side.

It should be noted that at least part of the functions of the receiving device, the linked terminal device, and each server device included in the service server device group in the above-described embodiments and modifications can be realized by a computer. In that case, a program for realizing this function may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded in this recording medium may be read into a computer system and executed. It should be noted that the "computer system" referred to here includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. In addition, “computer-readable recording media” refers to portable media such as flexible discs, magneto-optical discs, ROMs, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, USB memories, and storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. Say things. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording medium" refers to a program that dynamically retains programs for a short period of time, like a communication line when transmitting a program via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. It may also include a device that holds a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory inside a computer system that serves as a server or client in that case. Further, the program may be for realizing part of the functions described above, or may be capable of realizing the functions described above in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and design and the like are included within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention can be used in the broadcasting business, the business of manufacturing and selling devices and the like for using the broadcast-communication cooperation service. However, the scope of application of the present invention is not limited to the businesses exemplified here.

1 broadcast and communication collaboration system 2 receiving device 21 hardware 22 operating system 23 resident function unit 231 AIT management function unit (application information table management function unit)
2311 priority AIT determination function unit (priority application information table determination function unit)
232 receiver function unit 233 terminal cooperation function unit 2331 DIAL server function unit 2332 WebSocket server function unit 24 HTML5 application execution function unit (Hybridcast browser, application execution function unit)
3 Linked Terminal Device 31 Hardware 32 Operating System 33 Native Application Execution Function Unit 331 Companion Application 5 Broadcast Transmission Device 6 Service Server Device Group 61 AIT URL List Server Device 62 AIT Server Device 63 Hybridcast Application Server Device 64 Web Application Server Device 100 the internet

Claims (2)

a receiver function unit having a function of receiving a broadcast signal, and requesting acquisition of an application information table upon receiving an application start command included in the broadcast signal or an application start command from a terminal device outside the broadcast;
an application information table management function unit that acquires the application information table from a non-broadcasting communication side in response to an acquisition request for the application information table from the receiver function unit;
an application execution function unit that activates an application acquired based on the application information table and controls execution of the application;
a priority determination function unit that determines which application activation command is given priority when the application activation command is received from both the broadcast signal and the non-broadcast;
A receiving device comprising: the computer,
A program for functioning as the receiving device according to claim 1 .

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