External device, electronic device and control method

Abstract

The invention relates to external equipment, electronic equipment and a control method, and the external equipment comprises a first interface which is used for being electrically connected with a second interface of the electronic equipment; an operation unit; and the functional circuit is electrically connected with at least part of the functional terminals of the first interface, and the operating part is connected with the functional circuit so as to control the functional circuit to simulate the function of the input part of the electronic equipment. When the input part of the electronic equipment is damaged, the external equipment can be connected to simulate the function of the input part so as to avoid maintenance of the electronic equipment, so that the use experience of a user is improved. Meanwhile, when the input part of the electronic equipment is not damaged, the use frequency of the input part can be reduced by connecting the external equipment to simulate the function of the input part, so that the service life of the electronic equipment is prolonged. Moreover, the external equipment can simulate the function of the input part, and the external equipment can be connected to quickly set partial functions, so that the operation experience of a user is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of electronic equipment, and in particular to an external device, an electronic equipment and a control method. Background Art

[0002] At present, with the development of electronic devices, electronic devices can assist users in office work and provide users with entertainment experience, and are used frequently in daily life. As the frequency of use of electronic devices increases, the possibility of damage to the electronic devices increases. When the input part of an electronic device is damaged, the electronic device needs to be repaired, which affects the user experience. Summary of the invention

[0003] In order to overcome the problems existing in the related art, the present disclosure provides an external device, an electronic device and a control method.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an external device is provided, the external device comprising:

[0005] A first interface, the first interface is used to electrically connect to a second interface of an electronic device;

[0006] Operations Department;

[0007] A functional circuit is electrically connected to at least part of the functional terminals of the first interface, and the operating unit is connected to the functional circuit to control the functional circuit to output a target signal to the first interface to simulate the function of the input unit of the electronic device.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the functional circuit includes at least one unidirectional switch, a first end of the unidirectional switch is electrically connected to a ground terminal, a second end of the unidirectional switch is electrically connected to a functional terminal of the first interface, each of the unidirectional switches corresponds to one of the operating units, and the operating unit is used to control the conduction and disconnection of the corresponding unidirectional switch;

[0009] Wherein, when there are multiple one-way switches, the second ends of different one-way switches are electrically connected to different functional terminals in the first interface.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the operating part corresponding to the one-way switch is a button.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the functional circuit includes a selection switch, a fixed end of the selection switch is electrically connected to a ground end, and each selection end of the selection switch is electrically connected to a different functional terminal in the first interface.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the operating part connected to the selection switch is a knob.

[0013] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the detection terminal of the first interface is electrically connected to the ground terminal of the first interface, and the detection terminal of the first interface is used to be electrically connected to the detection terminal of the second interface.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the external device further includes a shell adapted to the shape of the electronic device, and the operating unit is disposed on the shell.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the functional circuit is embedded in the shell.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the shell includes a back plate and a side plate arranged around the back plate, and the operating part is arranged on the outer surface of the back plate and / or the side plate.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first interface is disposed on the inner surface of the side panel; or,

[0018] The first interface is connected to the housing through a flexible printed circuit board and is electrically connected to the functional circuit in the housing.

[0019] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided, the electronic device comprising:

[0020] a second interface, the second interface being electrically connected to the first interface of an external device to receive a target signal transmitted by the external device through the first interface;

[0021] A processing circuit is electrically connected to at least part of the functional terminals of the second interface, and is used to execute a function corresponding to the target signal so that the external device simulates the function of the input unit of the electronic device.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the processing circuit includes:

[0023] processor;

[0024] a gating circuit, wherein an input end of the gating circuit is electrically connected to a functional terminal in the second interface for receiving the target signal, an output end of the gating circuit is electrically connected to an input end of the processor, and an enable end of the gating circuit is electrically connected to a control end of the processor;

[0025] The gating circuit is configured to respectively select each functional terminal in the second interface for receiving the target signal with two different input terminals of the processor.

[0026] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the detection terminal of the second interface is electrically connected to the detection end of the processor.

[0027] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ground terminal of the second interface is used to be electrically connected to the ground terminal of the first interface, and the detection terminal of the second interface is used to be electrically connected to the detection terminal of the first interface.

[0028] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the processing circuit is also electrically connected to a screen of the electronic device, and the processing circuit is further used to display on the screen functions that can be simulated by the external device.

[0029] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a control method of an electronic device is provided, the control method of the electronic device comprising:

[0030] Detect whether the external device is connected;

[0031] When the external device is connected, in response to a first operation of the user on the external device, a function corresponding to the first operation is executed.

[0032] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first operation includes a first sub-operation, a second sub-operation, a third sub-operation, a fourth sub-operation, a fifth sub-operation and / or a sixth sub-operation; and in response to the user's first operation on the external device, executing a function corresponding to the first operation includes:

[0033] In response to the first sub-operation of the user on the operating unit of the external device, controlling the screen of the electronic device to light up or turn off;

[0034] In response to the second sub-operation of the user on the operation part of the external device, controlling the electronic device to turn on or off;

[0035] In response to the third sub-operation of the user on the operating part of the external device, increasing the volume of the electronic device;

[0036] In response to the fourth sub-operation of the user on the operating unit of the external device, reducing the volume of the electronic device;

[0037] In response to the fifth sub-operation of the user on the operating unit of the external device, taking a screenshot of the image displayed on the screen of the electronic device;

[0038] In response to the sixth sub-operation of the user on the operating part of the external device, the electronic device is controlled to shoot.

[0039] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, after the external device is connected, the control method of the electronic device further includes:

[0040] Displaying the functions that can be simulated by the external device on the screen of the electronic device;

[0041] In response to a second operation of the user on the screen, the function simulated by the external device is set to a function corresponding to the second operation.

[0042] The technical solution provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure may have the following beneficial effects:

[0043] The external device includes a first interface and a functional circuit, the first interface can be electrically connected to the second interface of the electronic device, and the functional circuit can simulate the function of the input part of the electronic device. When the input part of the electronic device is damaged, the function of the input part can be simulated by connecting the external device to avoid repairing the electronic device, thereby improving the user experience. At the same time, when the input part of the electronic device is not damaged, the function of the input part can be simulated by connecting the external device to reduce the frequency of use of the input part, thereby improving the life of the electronic device. In addition, since the external device can simulate the function of the input part, some functions can be quickly set by connecting the external device, thereby improving the user's operating experience.

[0044] It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0046] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device;

[0047] Figure 2 It is a flow chart of a control method of an electronic device;

[0048] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an external device provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of an external device provided by another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of an external device provided by another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram of an external device provided by another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0052] Figure 7 is a schematic structural diagram of an electronic device provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0053] Figure 8is a structural schematic diagram of an electronic device provided by another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of an application scenario of an external device provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0055] Fig.10 is a flow chart of a control method of an electronic device provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0056] Fig.11 is a flow chart of a control method of an electronic device provided by another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0057] Fig.12 is a schematic diagram of an application scenario of an electronic device provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0058] Fig.13 is a system block diagram of an electronic device provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] In the figure:

[0060] 10-first interface; 20-operating part; 21-first button; 22-second button; 23-third button; 30-functional circuit; 40-second interface; 50-housing; 60-processing circuit; 61-selection circuit; S-one-way switch; S1-first switch; S2-second switch; S3-third switch; Ss-selection switch; AGND-ground terminal; GND-ground terminal; 400-electronic device; 402-processing component; 404-memory; 406-power supply component; 408-multimedia component; 410-audio component; 412-input / output interface; 414-sensor component; 416-communication component; 420-processor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] Exemplary embodiments will be described in detail herein, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. When the following description refers to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with the present invention. Instead, they are merely examples of devices and methods consistent with some aspects of the present invention as detailed in the appended claims. It should also be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and includes any or all possible combinations of one or more associated listed items.

[0062] At present, with the development of electronic devices, electronic devices can assist users in their office work on the one hand, and can bring users entertainment experience on the other hand. As the frequency of use of electronic devices in daily life increases, the possibility of damage to electronic devices increases. For example, the physical buttons of electronic devices wear out as the operating frequency increases. When the wear reaches a certain level, the physical buttons are damaged and cannot perform the corresponding functions. Alternatively, when the line between the physical button and the processor of the electronic device fails or the input end of the processor is damaged, the physical button cannot perform the corresponding function. The physical buttons of electronic devices generally include a power button, a volume up button, and a volume down button. For example Figure 1 As shown, the power button is connected to the first switch S1, the volume up button is connected to the second switch S2, and the volume down button is connected to the third switch S3. The first end of the first switch S1, the first end of the second switch S2, and the first end of the third switch S3 are all electrically connected to the ground terminal AGND, and the second end of the first switch S1, the second end of the second switch S2, and the second end of the third switch S3 are respectively electrically connected to three different input terminals of the processor 420 of the electronic device. The processor 420 determines whether the power button, the volume up button, and / or the volume down button are pressed by detecting whether the signal at each input terminal is a low-level signal. Taking the power button as an example, the functions performed by the power button are described. As shown in Figure 2 As shown, determine whether the power button is pressed. When the power button is pressed, determine whether the electronic device is in the off state. When the electronic device is in the off state, control the electronic device to turn on. When the electronic device is in the on state, determine whether the power button is in a long-pressed state. When the power button is in a long-pressed state, a shutdown option pops up on the screen. When the power button is not in a long-pressed state, determine whether the screen is in a bright screen state. When the screen is in a bright screen state, control the screen to turn off. When the screen is in an off screen state, control the screen to light up. Therefore, when the physical button is damaged, the electronic device cannot realize some input functions and needs to be repaired, affecting the user experience.

[0063] Based on this, the present disclosure provides an external device, in which a functional circuit can simulate the function of an input part of an electronic device. When the input part of an electronic device is damaged, the function of the input part can be simulated by connecting an external device to avoid repairing the electronic device, thereby improving the user experience. For example, when the physical key of an electronic device is damaged, the function of the physical key can be simulated by connecting an external device, and then the physical key does not need to be repaired to improve the user experience. At the same time, when the input part of the electronic device is not damaged, the function of the input part can also be simulated by connecting an external device to reduce the frequency of use of the input part, thereby improving the life of the electronic device. For example, when the physical key of the electronic device is not damaged, the function of the physical key can be simulated by connecting an external device to reduce the frequency of use of the physical key to improve the life of the electronic device. In addition, since the external device can simulate the function of the input part, some functions can be quickly set by connecting the external device, thereby improving the user's operating experience. For example, the function of the external device can be set to an input function such as taking a photo, taking a screenshot, etc. in the electronic device other than the function of the physical key, and the electronic device can be conveniently controlled by operating the external device, thereby improving the user's operating experience.

[0064] An exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides an external device, such as Figure 3 As shown, the external device includes a first interface 10, an operating unit 20 and a functional circuit 30. The first interface 10 is used to be electrically connected to the second interface 40 of the electronic device. The functional circuit 30 is electrically connected to at least part of the functional terminals of the first interface 10, and the operating unit 20 is connected to the functional circuit 30 to control the functional circuit 30 to output a target signal to the first interface 10 to simulate the function of the input unit of the electronic device.

[0065] In this embodiment, the external device includes a first interface and a functional circuit, the first interface can be electrically connected to the second interface of the electronic device, and the functional circuit can simulate the function of the input part of the electronic device. When the input part of the electronic device is damaged, the function of the input part can be simulated by connecting the external device to avoid repairing the electronic device, thereby improving the user experience. At the same time, when the input part of the electronic device is not damaged, the function of the input part can also be simulated by connecting the external device to reduce the frequency of use of the input part, thereby improving the life of the electronic device. In addition, since the external device can simulate the function of the input part of the electronic device, some functions can be quickly set by connecting the external device, thereby improving the user's operating experience.

[0066] Exemplarily, the first interface 10 and the second interface 40 may be a Type-C interface, a Lightning interface, etc. The first interface 10 may be a male interface, and the second interface 40 may be a female interface.

[0067] Exemplarily, the external device may be, for example, a mobile phone case, an input device, etc. The electronic device may be, for example, a mobile phone, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a wearable device, etc.

[0068] Exemplarily, the input unit includes physical buttons, a touch screen, and the like.

[0069] In one embodiment, if Figure 4 As shown, the functional circuit 30 includes at least one unidirectional switch S. A first end of the unidirectional switch S is electrically connected to the ground terminal AGND, and a second end is electrically connected to a functional terminal of the first interface 10. Each unidirectional switch S corresponds to an operating unit 20, and the operating unit 20 is used to control the conduction and disconnection of the corresponding unidirectional switch S. When there are multiple unidirectional switches S, the second ends of different unidirectional switches S are electrically connected to different functional terminals in the first interface 10.

[0070] In this embodiment, the functional circuit includes at least one unidirectional switch, and the unidirectional switch can transmit a high-impedance signal and a low-level signal of the ground terminal as a target signal to the electronic device through the first interface, so that the electronic device does not perform or performs the corresponding function. By using the unidirectional switch in the functional circuit and the connected operating part to simulate the function of the input part, the structure of the functional circuit is simple, thereby reducing the complexity of the structure of the external device. At the same time, since there is no need to power the unidirectional switch, the external device will not consume the power of the electronic device after being connected, thereby improving the reliability of the external device.

[0071] In one embodiment, the operating part 20 corresponding to the one-way switch S is a button. The position of the button may correspond to the position of a physical button in the electronic device, or may be staggered with the position of the physical button in the electronic device.

[0072] In this embodiment, by using a button as the operating part, when a user operates the button, the user can obtain the same or similar feel as operating a physical button, thereby improving the user's usage experience.

[0073] In one embodiment, if Figure 5 As shown, the functional circuit 30 includes a selection switch Ss. The fixed end of the selection switch Ss is electrically connected to the ground terminal AGND, and each selection end is electrically connected to a different functional terminal in the first interface 10. The selection switch Ss can electrically connect any functional terminal connected to the selection end to the ground terminal AGND, or disconnect each functional terminal from the ground terminal AGND.

[0074] In this embodiment, by using a selection switch as a functional circuit, only one selection switch is needed to realize the connection and disconnection between multiple functional terminals and the ground terminal, thereby reducing the complexity of the external device structure.

[0075] In one embodiment, the operating unit 20 connected to the selection switch Ss is a knob.

[0076] In this embodiment, since the contact area of ​​the knob is large, using the knob as the operating part can improve the comfort of the user during operation, thereby improving the user's usage experience.

[0077] In one embodiment, the detection terminal of the first interface 10 is electrically connected to the ground terminal GND of the first interface 10 , and the detection terminal of the first interface 10 is used to be electrically connected to the detection terminal of the second interface 40 .

[0078] In this embodiment, by electrically connecting the detection terminal of the first interface with the ground terminal, the electronic device can determine whether the external device is connected based on the signal of the detection terminal of the second interface to avoid affecting the use of other devices except the external device, thereby improving the reliability of the external device.

[0079] Exemplarily, the function terminal of the first interface 10, the detection terminal of the first interface 10, the function terminal of the second interface 40, and the detection terminal of the second interface 40 may be a first communication terminal D+, a second communication terminal D-, a first sideband use terminal SBU1, a second sideband use terminal SBU2, a first configuration channel terminal CC1, a second configuration channel terminal CC2, a first positive transmission terminal TX1+, a first negative transmission terminal TX1-, a second positive transmission terminal TX2+, a second negative transmission terminal TX2-, a first positive receiving terminal RX1+, a first negative receiving terminal RX1-, a second positive receiving terminal RX2+, a second negative receiving terminal RX2-, etc. Among them, the detection terminal of the first interface 10 is a different terminal from the function terminal, and the detection terminal of the second interface 40 is a different terminal from the function terminal.

[0080] Exemplarily, the ground terminal GND of the first interface 10 is electrically connected to the ground terminal AGND.

[0081] In one embodiment, if Figure 6 As shown, the external device further includes a housing 50 adapted to the shape of the electronic device, and the operating unit 20 is disposed on the housing 50 .

[0082] In this embodiment, since the external device has a housing that matches the shape of the electronic device, the electronic device can be placed in the housing to avoid causing the electronic device to protrude and affect the user's use. By arranging the operating part in the housing, the user can conveniently operate the operating part when using the electronic device, thereby improving the user's operating experience. At the same time, since the electronic device can be placed in the housing, the external device can protect the electronic device, thereby improving the functionality of the external device.

[0083] Exemplarily, the operating unit 20 may include a first button 21 , a second button 22 , and / or a third button 23 .

[0084] In one embodiment, the functional circuit 30 is embedded in the housing 50 .

[0085] In this embodiment, by embedding the functional circuit in the housing, the functional circuit is prevented from being damaged by collision or contact with liquid, thereby improving the reliability of the external device. At the same time, since the functional circuit is located in the housing, the functional circuit is prevented from being accidentally touched and misoperated, thereby further improving the reliability of the external device.

[0086] In one embodiment, the housing 50 includes a back plate and a side plate disposed around the back plate, and the operating portion 20 is disposed on an outer surface of the back plate and / or the side plate.

[0087] In this embodiment, by arranging the operating unit on the side panel, the user can conveniently operate the operating unit when using the electronic device, thereby improving the user's operating experience. By arranging the operating unit on the back panel, the user can conveniently operate the operating unit when using some functions of the electronic device, thereby improving the user's operating experience.

[0088] In one embodiment, the first interface 10 is disposed on the inner surface of the side panel.

[0089] In this embodiment, by setting the first interface on the inner surface of the side panel, the second interface can automatically connect to the first interface after the electronic device is placed on the external device, thereby improving the reliability of the external device and reducing the complexity of connecting the external device.

[0090] In one embodiment, the first interface 10 is connected to the housing 50 through a flexible circuit board, and is electrically connected to the functional circuit 30 in the housing 50 .

[0091] In this embodiment, the first interface is connected to the housing through a flexible circuit board, and the user can choose whether to connect the first interface to the second interface after placing the electronic device into the external device to avoid affecting the connection of other devices, thereby improving the reliability of the external device.

[0092] An exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides an electronic device, such as Figure 7 As shown, the electronic device includes a second interface 40 and a processing circuit 60. The second interface 40 can be electrically connected to the first interface 10 of the external device to receive a target signal transmitted by the external device through the first interface 10. The processing circuit 60 is electrically connected to at least part of the functional terminals of the second interface 40, and is used to perform a function corresponding to the target signal, so that the external device simulates the function of the input part of the electronic device.

[0093] In this embodiment, the electronic device includes a second interface and a processing circuit, the second interface can be electrically connected to the first interface of the external device, and the processing circuit can execute a function corresponding to the target signal. When the input part of the electronic device is damaged, the target signal generated by the external device can be used to enable the electronic device to execute the corresponding function to avoid repairing the electronic device, thereby improving the user experience.

[0094] In one embodiment, if Figure 8 As shown, the processing circuit 60 includes a processor 420 and a gating circuit 61. The input end of the gating circuit 61 is electrically connected to a functional terminal for receiving a target signal in the second interface 40, the output end is electrically connected to an input end of the processor 420, and the enabling end is electrically connected to a control end of the processor 420. The gating circuit 61 is configured to gating each functional terminal for receiving a target signal in the second interface 40 with two different input ends of the processor 420, respectively.

[0095] In this embodiment, by adding a selection circuit between the processor and the second interface, the function terminal of the second interface can be selected to be connected to which input terminal of the processor according to the signal of the control terminal of the processor. Since the selection circuit can connect different input terminals of the processor to the function terminals of the second interface under the connection of external devices and other devices, it can avoid interference with the use of other devices, thereby improving the reliability of the electronic device. At the same time, by multiplexing the processor of the electronic device, the external device can simulate the function of the input part, avoiding the addition of additional devices, thereby reducing the complexity of the electronic device structure.

[0096] In one embodiment, the detection terminal of the second interface 40 is electrically connected to the detection end of the processor 420 .

[0097] In this embodiment, since the detection terminal of the second interface is electrically connected to the detection end of the processor, the processor can detect whether the external device is connected according to the signal of the detection terminal, thereby improving the reliability of the electronic device.

[0098] Exemplarily, the input terminal, the control terminal, and the detection terminal of the processor 420 may be a general purpose input / output (GPIO) terminal of the processor 420 .

[0099] In one embodiment, the ground terminal GND of the second interface 40 is used to be electrically connected to the ground terminal GND of the first interface 20 , and the detection terminal of the second interface 40 is used to be electrically connected to the detection terminal of the first interface 10 .

[0100] In this embodiment, since the ground terminal of the first interface is electrically connected to the detection terminal, when the first interface is connected to the second interface, the signal of the detection terminal of the second interface will become a low-level signal. When the first interface is not connected to the second interface, the signal of the detection terminal of the second interface will remain a high-impedance signal. Since the detection end of the processor can receive different level signals to distinguish between the first interface and the second interface when they are connected and not connected, the reliability of the electronic device is improved.

[0101] Exemplarily, the input end of the gating circuit 61 is electrically connected to a functional terminal of the second interface 40, the first output end is electrically connected to the first input end of the processor 420, and the second output end is electrically connected to the second input end of the processor 420. When other devices are connected or no device is connected, the signal of the detection end of the processor 420 is a high-impedance signal, and the processor 420 controls the gating circuit 61 through the control end to electrically connect the functional terminal of the second interface 40 to the first input end of the processor 420. When an external device is connected, the signal of the detection end of the processor 420 is a low-level signal, and the processor 420 controls the gating circuit 61 through the control end to electrically connect the functional terminal of the second interface 40 to the second input end of the processor 420. The processor 420 distinguishes other devices from external devices through the detection end, and electrically connects the functional terminals of the second interface 40 to different input ends of the processor 420 to prevent the external device from affecting the functions of other devices.

[0102] In one embodiment, the processing circuit 60 is also electrically connected to the screen of the electronic device, and is also used to display the functions that can be simulated by the external device on the screen.

[0103] In this embodiment, since the processing circuit is electrically connected to the screen, when the external device is connected, the processing circuit can display the functions that can be simulated by the external device through the screen so that the user can select the function. By selecting the function, the user can select the function of the input part simulated by the external device according to his or her needs, thereby improving the user's experience. At the same time, since the user can select the function of the input part simulated by the external device, some functions can be quickly set, thereby improving the user's operating experience.

[0104] By way of example, the working principle of the external device and the electronic device is described. Figure 6 and Fig. 9As shown, the external device includes a first interface 10, a first button 21, a second button 22, a third button 23, a first switch S1, a second switch S2 and a third switch S3. The first end of the first switch S1, the first end of the second switch S2 and the first end of the third switch S3 are all electrically connected to the ground terminal AGND, and the second end of the first switch S1, the second end of the second switch S2 and the second end of the third switch S3 are respectively electrically connected to the first function terminal, the second function terminal and the third function terminal of the function terminal of the first interface 10. The first button 21 is connected to the first switch S1. The second button 22 is connected to the second switch S2. The third button 23 is connected to the third switch S3. The ground terminal GND of the first interface 10 is electrically connected to the detection terminal and the ground terminal AGND. The electronic device includes a second interface 40, a gating circuit 61 and a processor 420. The first function terminal, the second function terminal and the third function terminal of the function terminal of the second interface 40 are respectively electrically connected to the first input terminal, the second input terminal and the third input terminal of the gating circuit 61. The first output terminal, the second output terminal, the third output terminal, the fourth output terminal, the fifth output terminal and the sixth output terminal of the gating circuit 61 are electrically connected to the first input terminal, the second output terminal, the third input terminal, the fourth input terminal, the fifth input terminal and the sixth input terminal of the processor 420, respectively. The enabling terminal of the gating circuit 61 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the processor 420. The detection terminal of the processor 420 is electrically connected to the detection terminal of the second interface 40. When the external device is connected, the detection terminal and the ground terminal GND of the first interface 10 are electrically connected to the detection terminal and the ground terminal GND of the second interface 40, and the detection terminal of the processor 420 receives a low level signal. The processor 420 controls the enabling terminal of the gating circuit 61 through the control terminal, so that the first input terminal of the gating circuit 61 is connected to the first output terminal, the second input terminal is connected to the third output terminal, and the third input terminal is connected to the fifth output terminal. The processor 420 performs corresponding functions according to the signals of the first output terminal, the third output terminal and the fifth output terminal of the gating circuit 61 to realize the function of the external device. When other devices are connected or no device is connected, the detection terminal of the second interface 40 is a high impedance signal, and the detection terminal of the processor 420 receives the high impedance signal. The processor 420 controls the enable terminal of the gating circuit 61 through the control terminal, so that the first input terminal of the gating circuit 61 is connected to the second output terminal, the second input terminal is connected to the fourth output terminal, and the third input terminal is connected to the sixth output terminal. The processor 420 performs corresponding functions according to the signals of the second output terminal, the fourth output terminal, and the sixth output terminal of the gating circuit 61.

[0105] According to the working principle of the external device and the electronic device described above, since the external device can be used to simulate the function of the input part and no additional protocol circuit is added to the functional circuit, the program of the electronic device only needs to be adaptively fine-tuned. For example, for the function of the power button, only the input end of the processor 420 needs to be adjusted to realize the function of the analog input part of the external device without rewriting the program. For the program of the electronic device, it can be executed in the following manner: boot the operating system. Register the detection service corresponding to the simulated function. Detect the signal at the input end of the processor 420 corresponding to the functional circuit 30. When it is detected that the signal at the input end becomes a low-level signal, trigger the callback function. Execute the function corresponding to the input end.

[0106] When an electronic device can realize quick settings of some functions through an external device, the functions that can be simulated by the external device will be displayed on the screen of the electronic device after the external device is connected. After registering the detection service corresponding to the simulated function, the corresponding function is registered according to the function selected by the user. For example, when the user chooses to set the function of the first button 21 to the function of the power button, the service related to the power button is registered. Then, the user can realize the functions of lighting up and extinguishing the screen, turning on and off the computer, etc. by operating the first button 21.

[0107] An exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure further provides a control method of an electronic device, which can be applied to the above-mentioned electronic device, such as Fig.10 As shown, the control method of the electronic device includes:

[0108] S100, detecting whether an external device is connected.

[0109] S200: When the external device is connected, in response to a first operation of the user on the external device, executing a function corresponding to the first operation.

[0110] In this embodiment, it is detected whether the external device is connected to determine whether to simulate the function of the input unit through the external device. In response to the first operation of the user on the external device, the simulation function corresponding to the first operation is executed to realize the external device simulating the function of the input unit. By making the external device simulate the function of the input unit after connecting to the external device, when the input unit of the electronic device is damaged, it can be replaced by the external device to avoid repairing the electronic device, thereby improving the user experience.

[0111] Exemplarily, the detection of whether the external device is connected in step S100 may be performed by the electronic device according to the signal of the detection terminal of the second interface. When the external device is connected, the detection terminal of the second interface is a low-level signal, which triggers the detection service and controls the gating circuit to perform gating in the first manner, so as to detect whether there is a target signal transmission through the corresponding input terminal to enable the external device to simulate the function of the input part. When no device is connected or other devices are connected, the detection terminal of the second interface is a high-impedance signal, which does not trigger the detection service and control the gating circuit to perform gating in the second manner.

[0112] In one embodiment, the first operation includes a first sub-operation. The function corresponding to the first operation in step S200 may be determined as follows:

[0113] In response to a first sub-operation of the user on the operating unit of the external device, the screen of the electronic device is controlled to light up or turn off.

[0114] In this embodiment, when the function of the power button of the electronic device is simulated by the operating unit, the user can control the screen of the electronic device to light up or go out after performing the first sub-operation on the first operating unit. By simulating the function of the power button of the electronic device with the operating unit, the operating unit can replace the power button when the power button is damaged, thereby improving the user experience. At the same time, since the function of controlling the screen to light up and go out can be realized through the operating unit, the frequency of use of the power button can be reduced when the power button is not damaged, thereby improving the life of the electronic device.

[0115] In one embodiment, the first operation includes a second sub-operation. The function corresponding to the first operation in step S200 can also be determined in the following manner:

[0116] In response to the second sub-operation of the user on the operating part of the external device, the electronic device is controlled to be turned on or off.

[0117] In this embodiment, when the function of the power button of the electronic device is simulated by the operating unit, the user can control the power on or off of the electronic device after performing the second sub-operation on the operating unit. By simulating the function of the power button of the electronic device with the operating unit, the operating unit can replace the power button when the power button is damaged, thereby improving the user experience. At the same time, since the function of controlling the power on and off of the electronic device can be realized through the operating unit, the frequency of use of the power button can be reduced when the power button is not damaged, thereby improving the life of the electronic device.

[0118] In one embodiment, the first operation includes a third sub-operation. The function corresponding to the first operation in step S200 may also be determined in the following manner:

[0119] In response to the user's third sub-operation on the operating part of the external device, the volume of the electronic device is increased.

[0120] In this embodiment, when the function of the upper key of the volume key of the electronic device is simulated by the operating unit, the user can increase the volume of the electronic device after performing the third sub-operation on the operating unit. By simulating the function of the upper key of the volume key of the electronic device by the operating unit, the upper key of the volume key can be replaced by the operating unit when the upper key of the volume key is damaged, thereby improving the user experience. At the same time, since the function of increasing the volume of the electronic device can be realized by the operating unit, the frequency of use of the upper key of the volume key can be reduced when the upper key of the volume key is not damaged, thereby improving the life of the electronic device.

[0121] In one embodiment, the first operation includes a fourth sub-operation. The function corresponding to the first operation in step S200 may also be determined in the following manner:

[0122] In response to a fourth sub-operation of the user on the operating unit of the external device, the volume of the electronic device is reduced.

[0123] In this embodiment, when the function of the volume key down key of the electronic device is simulated by the operating unit, the user can reduce the volume of the electronic device after performing the fourth sub-operation on the operating unit. By simulating the function of the volume key down key of the electronic device by the operating unit, the volume key down key can be replaced by the operating unit when the volume key down key is damaged, thereby improving the user experience. At the same time, since the function of reducing the volume of the electronic device can be realized by the operating unit, the frequency of use of the volume key down key can be reduced when the volume key down key is not damaged, thereby improving the life of the electronic device.

[0124] In one embodiment, the first operation includes a fifth sub-operation. The function corresponding to the first operation in step S200 may also be determined in the following manner:

[0125] In response to a fifth sub-operation of the user on the operating unit of the external device, a screenshot of the image displayed on the screen of the electronic device is taken.

[0126] In this embodiment, when the operation unit is used to perform quick settings on some functions of the electronic device, the user can implement the screenshot function after performing the fifth sub-operation on the operation unit. By simulating the screenshot function of the electronic device with the operation unit, the electronic device can be quickly screenshoted, thereby improving the user's operating experience.

[0127] In one embodiment, the first operation includes a sixth sub-operation. The function corresponding to the first operation in step S200 may also be determined in the following manner:

[0128] In response to a sixth sub-operation of the user on the operation portion of the external device, the electronic device is controlled to perform photographing.

[0129] In this embodiment, when the operation unit is used to perform quick settings on some functions of the electronic device, the user can realize the function of shooting after performing the sixth sub-operation on the operation unit. By simulating the shooting function of the electronic device with the operation unit, the electronic device can be quickly controlled to shoot, thereby improving the user's operating experience.

[0130] Exemplarily, the operation unit may include a first button, a second button, and a third button. When the user short presses the first button, it is determined that the user has performed a first sub-operation. When the user long presses the first button, it is determined that the user has performed a second sub-operation. When the user short presses the second button, it is determined that the user has performed a third sub-operation. When the user short presses the third button, it is determined that the user has performed a fourth sub-operation. When the user long presses the second button, it is determined that the user has performed a fifth sub-operation. When the user long presses the third button, it is determined that the user has performed a sixth sub-operation.

[0131] It is understandable that the functions of the input part that can be simulated by the operating part are not limited to the above functions, but can also include turning on or off the flashlight function, turning on or off the Bluetooth function, playing or pausing video function, turning on or off the calendar function, etc., which are not limited here.

[0132] In one embodiment, if Fig.11 As shown, when the external device is connected, the control method of the electronic device also includes:

[0133] S300: Displaying functions that can be simulated by the external device on the screen of the electronic device.

[0134] S400: In response to a second operation of the user on the screen, setting a function simulated by the external device to a function corresponding to the second operation.

[0135] In this embodiment, since the external device can simulate many functions of the electronic device, the functions that can be simulated by the external device are displayed on the screen of the electronic device so that the user can make a selection. In response to the second operation of the user on the screen, the function simulated by the external device is set to the function corresponding to the second operation, so that the user can realize the expected simulation function through the external device. By displaying the functions that can be simulated on the screen after the external device is connected, the user can make a selection according to his or her needs, thereby improving the user experience.

[0136] For example, Fig.12As shown, in step S300, the functions that can be simulated by the external device are displayed on the screen of the electronic device. For example, the functions simulated by the first button of the external device can be displayed as: power button, screenshot, and shooting. When the user selects the power button as the second operation on the screen, the function of the power button can be realized through the first button. When the user selects screenshot as the second operation on the screen, the screenshot function can be realized through the first button. When the user selects shooting as the second operation on the screen, the shooting function can be realized through the first button. It can be understood that other information can also be displayed on the screen of the electronic device to prompt the user to select the function that can be simulated by the external device, which is not limited here.

[0137] In an exemplary embodiment, Fig.13 As shown, electronic device 400 may include one or more of the following components: processing component 402 , memory 404 , power component 406 , multimedia component 408 , audio component 410 , input / output (I / O) interface 412 , sensor component 414 , and communication component 416 .

[0138] The processing component 402 generally controls the overall operation of the electronic device 400, such as operations associated with display, phone calls, data communications, camera operations, and recording operations. The processing component 402 may include one or more processors 420 to execute instructions to complete all or part of the steps of the above-mentioned method. In addition, the processing component 402 may include one or more modules to facilitate the interaction between the processing component 402 and other components. For example, the processing component 402 may include a multimedia module to facilitate the interaction between the multimedia component 408 and the processing component 402.

[0139] The memory 404 is configured to store various types of data to support operations on the electronic device 400. Examples of such data include instructions for any application or method operating on the electronic device 400, contact data, phone book data, messages, pictures, videos, etc. The memory 404 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage terminal or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic memory, flash memory, magnetic disk or optical disk.

[0140] The power supply component 406 provides power to the various components of the electronic device 400. The power supply component 406 may include a power management system, one or more power supplies, and other components associated with generating, managing, and distributing power to the electronic device 400.

[0141] The multimedia component 408 includes a screen that provides an output interface between the electronic device 400 and the user. In some embodiments, the screen may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a touch panel (TP). If the screen includes a touch panel, the screen may be implemented as a touch screen to receive input signals from the user. The touch panel includes one or more touch sensors to sense touch, slide, and gestures on the touch panel. The touch sensor may not only sense the boundaries of the touch or slide action, but also detect the duration and pressure associated with the touch or slide operation. In some embodiments, the multimedia component 408 includes a front camera module and / or a rear camera module. When the electronic device 400 is in an operating mode, such as a shooting mode or a video mode, the front camera module and / or the rear camera module may receive external multimedia data. Each front camera module and the rear camera module may be a fixed optical lens system or have a focal length and optical zoom capability.

[0142] The audio component 410 is configured to output and / or input audio signals. For example, the audio component 410 includes a microphone (MIC), and when the electronic device 400 is in an operating mode, such as a call mode, a recording mode, and a voice recognition mode, the microphone is configured to receive an external audio signal. The received audio signal can be further stored in the memory 404 or sent via the communication component 416. In some embodiments, the audio component 410 also includes a speaker for outputting audio signals.

[0143] I / O interface 412 provides an interface between processing component 402 and peripheral interface modules, such as keyboards, click wheels, buttons, etc. These buttons may include but are not limited to: a home button, a volume button, a start button, and a lock button.

[0144] The sensor assembly 414 includes one or more sensors for providing various aspects of status assessment for the electronic device 400. For example, the sensor assembly 414 can detect the open / closed state of the electronic device 400, the relative positioning of components, such as the display and keypad of the electronic device 400, and the sensor assembly 414 can also detect the position change of the electronic device 400 or a component of the electronic device 400, the presence or absence of user contact with the electronic device 400, the orientation or acceleration / deceleration of the electronic device 400, and the temperature change of the electronic device 400. The sensor assembly 414 may include a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact. The sensor assembly 414 may also include an optical sensor, such as a CMOS or CCD image sensor, for use in imaging applications. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly 414 may also include an accelerometer, a gyroscope sensor, a magnetic sensor, a pressure sensor, or a temperature sensor.

[0145] The communication component 416 is configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between the electronic device 400 and other terminals. The electronic device 400 can access a wireless network based on a communication standard, such as WiFi, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, or a combination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication component 416 receives a broadcast signal or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management system via a broadcast channel. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication component 416 also includes a near field communication (NFC) module to facilitate short-range communication. For example, the NFC module can be implemented based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, infrared data association (IrDA) technology, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, Bluetooth (BT) technology and other technologies.

[0146] In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic device 400 may be implemented by one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing terminals (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors or other electronic components to perform the above-described methods.

[0147] In an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including instructions is also provided, such as a memory 404 including instructions, and the above instructions can be executed by the processor 420 of the electronic device 400 to complete the above method. For example, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium can be a ROM, a random access memory (RAM), a CD-ROM, a tape, a floppy disk, and an optical data storage terminal. When the instructions in the storage medium are executed by the processor of the terminal, the terminal is enabled to perform the method shown in the above embodiment.

[0148] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate other embodiments of the present disclosure after considering the specification and practicing the invention disclosed herein. The present disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses or adaptations of the present disclosure that follow the general principles of the present disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art that are not disclosed in the present disclosure. The description and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of the present disclosure are indicated by the claims.

[0149] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate other embodiments of the present disclosure after considering the specification and practicing the invention disclosed herein. The present disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses or adaptations of the present disclosure that follow the general principles of the present disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art that are not disclosed in the present disclosure. The description and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of the present disclosure are indicated by the following claims.

[0150] It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the exact structures that have been described above and shown in the drawings, and that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope thereof. The scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An external device, It is characterized in that The external device includes: A first interface, the first interface is used to electrically connect to a second interface of an electronic device; Operations Department; A functional circuit is electrically connected to at least part of the functional terminals of the first interface, and the operating unit is connected to the functional circuit to control the functional circuit to output a target signal to the first interface to simulate the function of the input unit of the electronic device.

2. The external device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The functional circuit includes at least one unidirectional switch, a first end of the unidirectional switch is electrically connected to a ground terminal, a second end of the unidirectional switch is electrically connected to a functional terminal of the first interface, each of the unidirectional switches corresponds to one of the operating units, and the operating unit is used to control the conduction and disconnection of the corresponding unidirectional switch; Wherein, when there are multiple one-way switches, the second ends of different one-way switches are electrically connected to different functional terminals in the first interface.

3. The external device according to claim 2, It is characterized in that The operating part corresponding to the one-way switch is a button.

4. The external device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The functional circuit includes a selection switch, a fixed end of the selection switch is electrically connected to a ground end, and each selection end of the selection switch is electrically connected to a different functional terminal in the first interface.

5. The external device according to claim 4, It is characterized in that The operating part connected to the selection switch is a knob.

6. The external device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, It is characterized in that The detection terminal of the first interface is electrically connected to the ground terminal of the first interface, and the detection terminal of the first interface is used to be electrically connected to the detection terminal of the second interface.

7. The external device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, It is characterized in that The external device also includes a shell adapted to the shape of the electronic device, and the operating part is arranged on the shell.

8. The external device according to claim 7, It is characterized in that The functional circuit is embedded in the housing.

9. The external device according to claim 7, It is characterized in that The housing comprises a back plate and a side plate arranged around the back plate, and the operating portion is arranged on an outer surface of the back plate and / or the side plate.

10. The external device according to claim 9, It is characterized in that The first interface is disposed on the inner surface of the side panel; or, The first interface is connected to the housing through a flexible circuit board and is electrically connected to the functional circuit in the housing.

11. An electronic device, It is characterized in that The electronic device comprises: a second interface, the second interface being electrically connected to the first interface of an external device to receive a target signal transmitted by the external device through the first interface; A processing circuit is electrically connected to at least part of the functional terminals of the second interface, and is used to execute a function corresponding to the target signal so that the external device simulates the function of the input unit of the electronic device.

12. The electronic device according to claim 11, It is characterized in that The processing circuit comprises: processor; a gating circuit, wherein an input end of the gating circuit is electrically connected to a functional terminal in the second interface for receiving the target signal, an output end of the gating circuit is electrically connected to an input end of the processor, and an enable end of the gating circuit is electrically connected to a control end of the processor; The gating circuit is configured to respectively select each functional terminal in the second interface for receiving the target signal with two different input terminals of the processor.

13. The electronic device according to claim 11, It is characterized in that The detection terminal of the second interface is electrically connected to the detection end of the processor.

14. The electronic device according to claim 13, It is characterized in that The ground terminal of the second interface is used to be electrically connected to the ground terminal of the first interface, and the detection terminal of the second interface is used to be electrically connected to the detection terminal of the first interface.

15. The electronic device according to any one of claims 11 to 14, It is characterized in that The processing circuit is also electrically connected to the screen of the electronic device, and the processing circuit is also used to display on the screen the functions that can be simulated by the external device.

16. A method for controlling an electronic device, It is characterized in that The control method of the electronic device comprises: Detect whether the external device is connected; When the external device is connected, in response to a first operation of the user on the external device, a function corresponding to the first operation is executed.

17. The method for controlling an electronic device according to claim 16, It is characterized in that The first operation includes a first sub-operation, a second sub-operation, a third sub-operation, a fourth sub-operation, a fifth sub-operation and / or a sixth sub-operation; and in response to the first operation of the user on the external device, executing a function corresponding to the first operation includes: In response to the first sub-operation of the user on the operating unit of the external device, controlling the screen of the electronic device to light up or turn off; In response to the second sub-operation of the user on the operation part of the external device, controlling the electronic device to turn on or off; In response to the third sub-operation of the user on the operating part of the external device, increasing the volume of the electronic device; In response to the fourth sub-operation of the user on the operating unit of the external device, reducing the volume of the electronic device; In response to the fifth sub-operation of the user on the operating unit of the external device, taking a screenshot of the image displayed on the screen of the electronic device; In response to the sixth sub-operation of the user on the operating part of the external device, the electronic device is controlled to shoot.

18. The method for controlling an electronic device according to claim 16 or 17, It is characterized in that When the external device is connected, the control method of the electronic device further includes: Displaying the functions that can be simulated by the external device on the screen of the electronic device; In response to a second operation of the user on the screen, the function simulated by the external device is set to a function corresponding to the second operation.

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