Projector and control method thereof

Abstract

This projector comprises: a communication interface; a projection unit; a memory; and a processor, wherein the processor identifies, when at least one external device is connected through the communication interface, a priority of the projector and the at least one external device on the basis of information about a state and performance of the at least one external device, and transmits, when the projector is identified as a main device according to the priority, data corresponding to location movement for interworking with the projector to the at least one external device through the communication interface.

Description

Projector and its control method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a projector and a method for controlling the same, and more particularly, to a projector that is linked to an external device and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] A projector is a device that projects images onto a projection surface. Projectors are used in a variety of ways, not only on dedicated screens but also on various projection surfaces, such as walls, floors, and ceilings, both indoors and outdoors.

[0003] As projectors become more widely used, attempts are being made to use multiple projectors to project large-screen images. Consequently, the need for a method to interconnect multiple projectors is growing.

[0004] A projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure includes a communication interface, a projection unit, a memory, and a processor, wherein the processor identifies priorities of the projector and the at least one external device based on information about a status and performance of the at least one external device when the at least one external device is connected through the communication interface, and when the projector is identified as a main device according to the priorities, transmits data corresponding to a position movement for a linkage operation with the projector to the at least one external device through the communication interface.

[0005] The processor can, for an external device having a projection function among the at least one external device, move to one side of the projector and transmit data corresponding to one integrated screen projection linked with the projector to the external device.

[0006] The processor can control the projection unit to project content, and transmit data corresponding to projection of additional content related to the content to an external device having a projection function among the at least one external device.

[0007] The processor may, if there are a plurality of external devices having the projection function, transmit data corresponding to projection of at least a portion of the content to at least one of the plurality of external devices having the projection function in conjunction with the projector, and transmit data corresponding to projection of the additional content to the remaining devices among the plurality of external devices having the projection function.

[0008] The processor, when playing content including an audio signal and a video signal, if at least one external device includes an audio output device, moves to a sound source location of the audio signal and transmits data corresponding to the output of the audio signal to the external device including the audio output device, and moves to one side of the projector to an external device having a projection function among the at least one external device and transmits data corresponding to the output of at least a portion of the video signal in conjunction with the projector.

[0009] Based on information of the projector and the at least one external device, information identifying priorities by function is stored in the memory, and the processor can, when playing content including an audio signal and a video signal, identify a device to output the audio signal among the projector and the at least one external device based on the priority for the audio output function, and identify a device to output the video signal among the projector and the at least one external device based on the priority for the projection function.

[0010] At least one sensor is further included, and the processor controls the projection unit to project content, and when movement of the user is detected through the at least one sensor while the content is being projected, data can be transmitted to an external device having a tracking function and a projection function among the at least one external device to project the content onto the floor along the movement path of the user whose movement was detected.

[0011] The processor may control the external device to move to one side of the projector according to the transmitted data and, when the remaining power of the external device is less than a preset value during the integrated screen projection, transmit data corresponding to a decrease in the amount of light of the external device to the external device and increase the amount of light of the projection unit; and, when the remaining power of the projector is less than the preset value, transmit data corresponding to an increase in the amount of light of the external device to the external device and decrease the amount of light of the projection unit.

[0012] Further comprising a light sensor for detecting light, wherein the processor can identify the number of devices to be involved in content projection based on the light and the priority.

[0013] The processor may store information about the status and performance of at least one external device in the memory when at least one external device is connected via the communication interface.

[0014] A method for controlling a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure includes the steps of identifying priorities of the projector and the at least one external device based on information about the status and performance of the at least one external device when the at least one external device is connected, and, if the projector is identified as a main device based on the priorities, transmitting data corresponding to position movement for a linkage operation with the projector to the at least one external device.

[0015] The above control method may include a step of moving, for an external device having a projection function among the at least one external device, to one side of the projector and transmitting data corresponding to one integrated screen projection linked with the projector to the external device.

[0016] The above control method may include a step of controlling the projection unit to project content, and a step of transmitting data corresponding to projection of additional content related to the content to an external device having a projection function among the at least one external device.

[0017] The above control method may include, if there are a plurality of external devices having the projection function, a step of transmitting data corresponding to projection of at least a portion of the content to at least one of the plurality of external devices having the projection function in conjunction with the projector, and a step of transmitting data corresponding to projection of the additional content to the remaining devices among the plurality of external devices having the projection function.

[0018] The above control method may include, when playing content including an audio signal and a video signal, a step of moving to a sound source position of the audio signal and transmitting data corresponding to the output of the audio signal to an external device including the audio output device, if the at least one external device includes an audio output device, and a step of moving to one side of the projector and transmitting data corresponding to the output of at least a portion of the video signal to an external device having a projection function among the at least one external device in conjunction with the projector.

[0019] The control method may include a step of storing information identifying priorities by function based on information of the projector and the at least one external device, a step of identifying a device to output the audio signal among the projector and the at least one external device based on the priority for the audio output function when playing content including an audio signal and a video signal, and a step of identifying a device to output the video signal among the projector and the at least one external device based on the priority for the projection function.

[0020] The above control method may include a step of controlling the projection unit to project content, and a step of transmitting data to an external device having a tracking function and a projection function among the at least one external device so that the content is projected on a floor along the movement path of the user whose movement was detected when the user's movement is detected through the at least one sensor while the content is being projected.

[0021] The control method may include a step of transmitting data corresponding to a decrease in the light amount of the external device to the external device when the external device moves to one side of the projector according to the transmitted data and the remaining power of the external device is less than a preset value during the integrated screen projection, a step of controlling the light amount of the projector to increase, and a step of transmitting data corresponding to an increase in the light amount of the external device to the external device when the remaining power of the projector is less than the preset value, and a step of controlling the light amount of the projector to decrease.

[0022] The above control method may include a step of identifying the number of devices to be involved in content projection based on the illuminance and the priority.

[0023] The above control method may include a step of storing information about the status and performance of at least one external device when at least one external device is connected.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a detailed configuration of a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings illustrating the exterior and interior of a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are diagrams illustrating a method for a projector to identify a priority by function according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIGS. 9 and 10 are diagrams illustrating a method for a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure to identify at least one external device to be linked with the projector.

[0031] FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are diagrams illustrating a method for a device group to project two or more images according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 are diagrams illustrating a method for controlling a projector to project an image to a group of devices based on a sensed illuminance, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining map information according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a method for controlling the amount of light projected by a group of devices by a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a method for a projector to control the audio output direction of a group of devices according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 are diagrams illustrating a method for controlling the amount of projected light of a group of devices according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, based on the occurrence of a preset event.

[0037] FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 are diagrams illustrating a method for controlling projectors of a device group according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, based on the occurrence of a preset event.

[0038] FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 are diagrams illustrating a method for controlling a tracking device of a device group when a change in a user position is detected by a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 are drawings illustrating a method for a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure to control another device according to a change in a user's position.

[0040] FIG. 26 is a flowchart for explaining a method of controlling a projector according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] The present embodiments may be modified and have various embodiments. Therefore, specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. However, this is not intended to limit the scope to specific embodiments, but should be understood to encompass various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the embodiments of the present disclosure. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar components.

[0042] In describing the present disclosure, if it is determined that a specific description of a related known function or configuration may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0043] Additionally, the following embodiments may be modified in various other forms, and the scope of the technical concepts of the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments. Rather, these embodiments are provided to further faithfully and completely convey the technical concepts of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0044] The terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the rights. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0045] In this disclosure, expressions such as “has,” “can have,” “includes,” or “may include” indicate the presence of a corresponding feature (e.g., a component such as a number, function, operation, or part), and do not exclude the presence of additional features.

[0046] In this disclosure, expressions such as “A or B,” “at least one of A and / or B,” or “one or more of A or / and B” can include all possible combinations of the listed items. For example, “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” or “at least one of A or B” can all refer to (1) including at least one A, (2) including at least one B, or (3) including both at least one A and at least one B.

[0047] The expressions “first,” “second,” “first,” or “second,” etc., used in this disclosure can describe various components, regardless of order and / or importance, and are only used to distinguish one component from another, but do not limit the components.

[0048] When it is said that a component (e.g., a first component) is “(operatively or communicatively) coupled with / to” or “connected to” another component (e.g., a second component), it should be understood that said component may be directly coupled to said other component, or may be coupled via another component (e.g., a third component).

[0049] On the other hand, when it is said that a component (e.g., a first component) is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), it can be understood that no other component (e.g., a third component) exists between said component and said other component.

[0050] The expression "configured to" used in the present disclosure may be used interchangeably with, for example, "suitable for," "having the capacity to," "designed to," "adapted to," "made to," or "capable of." The term "configured to" may not necessarily mean only "specifically designed to" in terms of hardware.

[0051] Instead, in some contexts, the phrase "a device configured to" may mean that the device, in conjunction with other devices or components, is "capable of" performing A, B, and C. For example, the phrase "a processor configured (or set) to perform A, B, and C" may refer to a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) for performing those operations, or a general-purpose processor (e.g., a CPU or application processor) that can perform those operations by executing one or more software programs stored in a memory device.

[0052] In the embodiments, a 'module' or 'part' performs at least one function or operation, and may be implemented as hardware or software, or as a combination of hardware and software. Furthermore, a plurality of 'modules' or 'parts' may be integrated into at least one module and implemented as at least one processor, except for a 'module' or 'part' that needs to be implemented as a specific hardware.

[0053] Meanwhile, the various elements and areas in the drawings are schematically drawn. Therefore, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited by the relative sizes or spacing depicted in the attached drawings.

[0054] Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail so that a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present disclosure pertains can easily implement the present disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a projection system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 1, a projection system according to the present disclosure includes a plurality of electronic devices (100, 200-1 to 200-4). The electronic devices (100, 200-1 to 200-4) may be implemented as various devices having display functions or audio output functions. For example, the electronic devices may include various products such as projectors, speakers, desktop PCs, laptop PCs, mobile phones, tablet PCs, display devices, and robot vacuum cleaners.

[0057] At least one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described based on a case including a projector (100) and at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4). Here, the external device means an independent device provided separately from the projector (100), and may be a product of the same type as the projector (100). Alternatively, the external device may be referred to as an electronic device.

[0058] When a plurality of electronic devices (100, 200-1 to 200-4) are connected via a communication network, at least one of them can control the operation of other devices. For convenience of explanation, in the present disclosure, a device that controls the operation of another device is referred to as a main device, and another device that operates according to the control is referred to as a sub-device. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these terms, and the main device may be referred to as a master device, a control device, a host device, etc., and the sub-device may be referred to as a slave device, a controlled device, etc.

[0059] If the projector (1000) operates as the main device, the projector (100) can move at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) to a position where it can operate in conjunction with the projector (100) and control it to play content in conjunction with the projector (100).

[0060] The projector (100) and at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) may be implemented as a mobile projector as illustrated in FIG. 1, but are not limited thereto, and may be implemented in the form of a fixed projector without a mobile function, an aerial projector, or a ceiling projector. An aerial projector refers to a projector that can move by floating in the air like a drone, and a ceiling projector refers to a projector that is fixed by being attached to a ceiling or other wall surface.

[0061] Alternatively, the projector (100) and at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) may be implemented as a user terminal device, a server, an IoT hub device, a mobile device, etc. In this case, the mobile device may be implemented as a device that can store the projector and move while the projector is stored.

[0062] A projector (100) and at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) can be connected via a communication interface to form a device group. According to the present disclosure, the device group can provide various multimedia services requested by a user. For example, the device group can provide content playback services, such as projecting images on a projection surface or outputting audio.

[0063] Once a device group is formed, the devices constituting the device group can exchange information about the status and performance of the devices with each other. That is, the projector (100) can obtain information about the status and performance of at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4).

[0064] Based on information about the status and performance of the devices constituting the device group, a main device for controlling the device group can be determined among the devices constituting the device group. The method for determining the main device will be described in detail later.

[0065] When a projector (100) is determined as the main device among a device group, the projector (100) can control at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4). At this time, the projector (100) can control the device group to play content according to a user request. Accordingly, the devices constituting the device group can work together to play content.

[0066] Specifically, the projector (100) can identify at least one projector (200-1, 200-2) for projecting content images and an audio output device (200-3, 200-4) for outputting content audio among at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4). For convenience of explanation, projectors (200-1, 200-2) other than the projector (100) are hereinafter referred to as external projectors.

[0067] An audio output device refers to a device capable of audio output. For example, it could be a speaker. However, this is not limited to this, and an audio output device could also include a device capable of both display and audio output.

[0068] The projector (100) can determine the projection position of at least one external projector (200-1, 200-2) and the audio output position of at least one audio output device (200-3, 200-4).

[0069] The projection position and audio output position may be determined in various ways depending on the embodiment. For example, if there are other projectors (200-1, 200-2) among the external devices, the projector (100) may determine the projection position so as to be aligned parallel and spaced apart from each other on both sides or in one direction of the projector (100) to implement a single large screen. Alternatively, if it is desired to provide various additional contents together, the projector (100) may determine the projection position to be a position spaced apart from the projector (100) by a certain distance. Alternatively, if the projector (100) and a plurality of external projectors (200-1, 200-2) project the same content screen to the same area to provide high-brightness, high-quality images, the projector (100) may determine the projection position to be aligned parallel to the projector (100) at a position close to the projector (100). The projection position determination method will be described in detail again with reference to the drawings below.

[0070] When a projection position or an audio output position is identified, the projector (100) can control at least one external projector (200-1, 200-2) to move to an appropriate projection position. In addition, the projector (100) can move at least one audio output device (200-3, 200-4) to the identified audio output position. At this time, if at least one external projector (200-1, 200-2) or at least one audio output device (200-3, 200-4) is located at the identified position, the operation of the projector (100) moving at least one external projector (200-1, 200-2) or at least one audio output device (200-3, 200-4) can be omitted.

[0071] And, the projector (100) can control at least one external projector (200-1, 200-2) to project an image at an identified projection position, and can control at least one audio output device (200-3, 200-4) to output audio at the identified projection position. Specifically, the projector (100) can transmit information about the identified position and data corresponding to movement of the position to each of the external devices (200-1 to 200-4). Here, the data corresponding to movement of the position can be a control signal for causing each of the external devices (200-1 to 200-4) to move to the identified position.

[0072] Each external device (200-1 to 200-4) can move to a projection position or an audio output position based on position information and control signals received from the projector (100). The projector (100) and each external device (200-1 to 200-4) can identify their positions within space in various ways.

[0073] For example, the projector (100) and each of the external devices (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) can store map information corresponding to the space and coordinate information corresponding to its own location within the map. The map information can be shared between the projector (100) and each of the external devices (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4). Specifically, at least one of the projector (100) and each of the external devices (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) can directly obtain map information and coordinate information using various sensors such as a LiDAR sensor, an infrared sensor, and an image sensor. If a LiDAR sensor is provided, each device moves within the space and irradiates a laser onto the surrounding space, receives the reflected signal using the LiDAR sensor, and measures the distance to the surrounding objects based on the received time. Based on the measured distance, each device can obtain a map of the space in which the device is located and coordinate information indicating its current location within the map. Based on its current location, each device can move to the coordinates corresponding to the location information designated by the projector (100). The above-described map information can be generated by one of the devices and shared with other devices.

[0074] As another example, if at least one of the projector (100) and each of the external devices (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) is equipped with an image sensor, the device can use the image sensor to capture a surrounding space and then analyze the captured data to identify the shape of the surrounding space, the distance to a wall, etc. Based on the identified information, the device can determine its own location.

[0075] In addition, at least one of the projector (100) and each of the external devices (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) can identify the entire map information and its own location information based on the user's input. As described above, at least one external device moves to a position where it can operate in conjunction with the projector (100) based on the control signal of the projector (100). Accordingly, the projector (100) and at least one external device can provide various services.

[0076] A detailed description of the configuration and operation of the projector (100) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings below.

[0077] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0078] According to FIG. 2, the projector (100) includes a communication interface (130), a projection unit (120), a memory (120), and a processor (140).

[0079] The communication interface (130) is a configuration for performing communication with at least one external device. The communication interface (130) may include at least one wireless communication module, at least one wired communication module, etc. Each communication module may be implemented in the form of at least one hardware chip. The wireless communication module may be a module that wirelessly communicates with an external device. For example, the wireless communication module may include at least one module among a Wi-Fi module, a Bluetooth module, an infrared communication module, or other communication modules. When using a Wi-Fi module or a Bluetooth module, the communication interface (130) first transmits and receives various connection information, such as an SSID (service set identifier) ​​and a session key, with the external device, and then uses this to establish a communication connection and then transmit and receive various pieces of information. The infrared communication module performs communication according to infrared communication (IrDA, Infrared Data Association) technology, which wirelessly transmits data over a short distance using infrared, which is between visible light and millimeter waves. In addition, the communication interface (130) may include at least one communication chip that performs communication according to various wireless communication standards such as Zigbee, 3G (3rd Generation), 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (LTE Advanced), 4G (4th Generation), 5G (5th Generation), etc. The wired communication module may be a module that communicates with an external device via wire. For example, the wired communication module may include at least one of a LAN (Local Area Network) module, an Ethernet module, a pair cable, a coaxial cable, an optical fiber cable, or a UWB (Ultra Wide-Band) module.

[0080] The projection unit (120) is a component that projects an image to the outside. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the projection unit (120) can be implemented in various projection methods (e.g., CRT (cathode-ray tube) method, LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) method, DLP (Digital Light Processing) method, laser method, etc.). For example, the CRT method has the same principle as a CRT monitor. The CRT method magnifies the image with a lens in front of the cathode-ray tube (CRT) and displays the image on the screen. Depending on the number of cathode-ray tubes, it is divided into a single-tube type and a three-tube type, and in the case of a three-tube type, the red, green, and blue cathode-ray tubes can be implemented separately.

[0081] Another example is the LCD method, which displays images by passing light from a light source through liquid crystals. LCD methods are divided into single-panel and three-panel types. In the three-panel type, light from a light source is separated into red, green, and blue by a dichroic mirror (a mirror that reflects only certain colors of light and transmits all others). The light then passes through the liquid crystals and is then refocused into a single point.

[0082] Another example is the DLP method, which displays images using a DMD (Digital Micromirror Device) chip. The DLP projection unit may include a light source, a color wheel, a DMD chip, a projection lens, etc. Light output from the light source can be colored as it passes through the rotating color wheel. The light passing through the color wheel is input to the DMD chip. The DMD chip is composed of numerous micromirrors. The DMD chip reflects the input light. The projection lens can play a role in magnifying the light reflected from the DMD chip to the size of the image.

[0083] As another example, the laser-based projection unit (120) includes a Diode Pumped Solid State (DPSS) laser and a galvanometer. To output various colors, DPSS lasers may be provided for each RGB color. The galvanometer uses a motor to rapidly rotate a mirror to reflect the laser. For example, the galvanometer can rotate the mirror at a maximum speed of 40 KHz / sec.

[0084] Meanwhile, the projection unit (120) may include various types of light sources. For example, the projection unit (120) may include at least one light source among a lamp, an LED, and a laser.

[0085] The projection unit (120) can output images in a 4:3 screen ratio, a 5:4 screen ratio, or a 16:9 wide screen ratio depending on the purpose of the projector (100) or the user's settings, and can output images in various resolutions such as WVGA (854*480), SVGA (800*600), XGA (1024*768), WXGA (1280*720), WXGA (1280*800), SXGA (1280*1024), UXGA (1600*1200), Full HD (1920*1080), UHD (3840*2160), etc. depending on the screen ratio.

[0086] The projection unit (120) can perform various functions for adjusting the output image under the control of the processor (140). For example, the projection unit (120) can perform functions such as zoom, keystone, quick corner (4 corner) keystone, and lens shift.

[0087] Specifically, the projection unit (120) can perform a zoom function to enlarge or reduce an image depending on the distance from the screen (projection distance).

[0088] The method of performing a zoom function can be divided into a hardware method that adjusts the screen size by moving the lens and a software method that adjusts the screen size by cropping the image. When the zoom function is performed, the focus of the image needs to be adjusted. Focus adjustment can be performed using a manual focus method or an electric focus method. The manual focus method refers to a method of focusing manually. The electric focus method refers to a method of automatically focusing using a motor. The projector (100) can selectively provide a digital zoom function or an optical zoom function.

[0089] The projection unit (120) can also perform a keystone correction function. If the height is not right for frontal projection, the screen may be distorted upwards or downwards. The keystone correction function refers to a function that corrects a distorted screen. For example, if distortion occurs in the left and right directions of the screen, it can be corrected using horizontal keystone, and if distortion occurs in the up and down directions, it can be corrected using vertical keystone. The quick corner (4 corner) keystone correction function is a function that corrects the screen when the center area of ​​the screen is normal but the corner areas are not balanced. The lens shift function is a function that moves the screen as it is when the screen is off the screen.

[0090] The projection unit (120) can automatically analyze the surrounding environment and projection environment and provide zoom / keystone / focus functions even without user operation. Specifically, the projection unit (120) can automatically provide zoom / keystone / focus functions based on the distance between the projector (100) and the screen detected by a sensor (depth camera, distance sensor, infrared sensor, light sensor, etc.), information about the space where the projector (100) is currently located, information about the amount of ambient light, etc.

[0091] Additionally, the projection unit (120) can provide a lighting function using a light source. In particular, the projection unit (120) can output light using a light source such as one or more LEDs.

[0092] The projection unit (120) may output a light source using a surface-emitting LED, depending on the implementation example. The surface-emitting LED is an LED having a structure in which an optical sheet is arranged on the upper side of the LED so that light is evenly distributed and output.

[0093] The projection unit (120) may also provide the user with a dimming function for adjusting the intensity of the light source. Specifically, when the user inputs a command for adjusting the intensity of the light source through various operation interfaces such as a touch screen, button, dial, etc., the projection unit (120) may control the LED to output light with an intensity corresponding to the user command. Alternatively, the projection unit (120) may provide a dimming function based on content analyzed by the processor (140) without user input. Specifically, the projection unit (120) may control the LED to output the intensity of the light source based on information about the currently provided content (e.g., content type, content brightness, etc.).

[0094] The projection unit (120) can also control the color temperature under the control of the processor (140).

[0095] The memory (120) is configured to store various software, commands, data, etc. required for the operation of the projector (100).

[0096] In FIG. 2, the memory (120) is implemented as a separate memory from the processor (140), but it is not necessarily limited thereto, and the memory (120) may be implemented as an internal memory such as a ROM (e.g., an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)) or RAM included in the processor (140).

[0097] Alternatively, the memory (120) may be implemented in the form of memory embedded in the projector (100) or in the form of memory that can be attached or detached from the projector (100) depending on the purpose of data storage. For example, data for operating the projector (100) may be stored in the memory embedded in the projector (100), and data for the expansion function of the projector (100) may be stored in the memory that can be attached or detached from the projector (100).

[0098] In the case of memory embedded in the projector (100), the memory (120) may be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM)), non-volatile memory (e.g., one time programmable ROM (OTPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD)).

[0099] In the case of a memory that can be attached or detached to the projector (100), it can be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., CF (compact flash), SD (secure digital), Micro-SD (micro secure digital), Mini-SD (mini secure digital), xD (extreme digital), MMC (multi-media card), etc.), an external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., USB memory), etc.

[0100] As described above, the memory (120) may store not only at least one command related to the projector (100), but also various software, data, etc. The memory (120) may store an O / S (Operating System) for driving the projector (100). In addition, the memory (120) may store various software programs or applications for operating the projector (100) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. The processor (140) may execute various software modules stored in the memory (120) to control the operation of the projector (100). That is, the memory (120) is accessed by the processor (140), and data reading / writing / modifying / deleting / updating, etc., may be performed by the processor (140).

[0101] In the present disclosure, the term memory (120) may be used to mean a storage unit, a ROM (not shown), a RAM (not shown) in a processor (140), or a memory card (not shown) (e.g., a micro SD card, a memory stick) mounted on a projector (100).

[0102] The processor (140) is configured to control the overall operation of the projector (100). The processor (140) may be implemented as a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, or a time controller (TCON) that processes digital signals. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a micro controller unit (MCU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a controller, an application processor (AP), a graphics-processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), or an advanced reduced instruction set computer (RISC) machines (ARM) processor, or may be defined by the relevant terminology. In addition, the processor (140) may be implemented as a system on chip (SoC) or large scale integration (LSI) having a built-in processing algorithm, or may be implemented in the form of a field programmable gate array (FPGA). In addition, the processor (140) may perform various functions by executing computer executable instructions stored in the memory (120).

[0103] In relation to the operation of the projection unit (120), the processor (140) may control the color temperature based on the content to be projected. Specifically, once the content to be output is identified, the processor (140) may obtain frame-by-frame color information of the corresponding content.

[0104] The processor (140) can acquire at least one primary color of the frame based on the acquired frame-by-frame color information. The processor (140) can adjust the color temperature based on the acquired at least one primary color. For example, the color temperature that the processor (140) can adjust can be classified into a warm type or a cold type. Here, it is assumed that a frame to be output (hereinafter, output frame) includes a scene in which a fire has occurred. The processor (140) can identify (or acquire) that the primary color is red based on the color information included in the current output frame. Then, the processor (140) can identify the color temperature corresponding to the identified primary color (red). Here, the color temperature corresponding to red can be a warm type. Meanwhile, the processor (140) can utilize an artificial intelligence model to acquire the color information or primary color of the frame. Depending on the various embodiments, the artificial intelligence model may be stored in memory (120) or in an external server that can communicate with the projector (100).

[0105] When the processor (140) is connected to at least one external device through the communication interface (130), it can perform various operations in conjunction with at least one external device.

[0106] Specifically, the processor (140) can receive information about the status and performance of at least one external device through the communication interface (130). The processor (140) stores the received information in the memory (120).

[0107] The processor (140) can identify the priorities of the projector (100) and at least one external device based on the stored information. Priority refers to the order that serves as a criterion for determining which devices will participate in various services provided in various embodiments of the present disclosure. Priority can be set separately for each function, or can be set separately for each device by integrating various functions. Specific priorities will be further described in detail in the following sections.

[0108] At this time, the processor (140) can store information about the identified priority in the memory (120). Then, based on the priority stored in the memory (120), the processor (140) can identify whether the projector (100) is the main device.

[0109] Specifically, the processor (140) identifies whether the projector (100) is the main device among the projector (100) and at least one external device, according to priority.

[0110] If the processor (140) determines that the projector (100) is not the main device, it performs an operation according to a control signal received from at least one external device set as the main device. For example, if the first external device (200-1), which is one of the external devices (200-1 to 200-4) of FIG. 1, is the main device, if the processor (140) receives a control signal from the first external device (200-1) to move to a specific location, it can move to the specific location according to the control signal.

[0111] When the projector (100) is identified as the main device according to priority, the processor (140) can control at least one external device as the main device to provide various services.

[0112] For example, the processor (140) may generate data corresponding to a positional movement that may be operated by at least one external device in conjunction with the projector (100), and transmit the data to at least one external device via the communication interface (130). The control signal may include positional information, such as coordinate values ​​for specifying the position.

[0113] As described above, the projector (100) may be implemented in various forms, such as a mobile projector, an aerial projector, or a ceiling projector. When implemented as a mobile projector as illustrated in FIG. 1, the projector (100) may further include various configurations in addition to the configuration illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0114] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a detailed configuration of a projector according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 3, the projector (100) may further include a communication interface (130), a projection unit (120), a memory (120), a processor (140), as well as an operation interface (151), an input / output interface (152), a display (153), a speaker (154), a microphone (155), a power supply unit (156), a driving unit (157), a moving member (158), and a sensor unit (159). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the projector (100) may further include other components, or some of the components may be omitted or changed. Since the communication interface (130), the projection unit (120), the memory (120), and the processor (140) of the configuration of FIG. 3 have been described in FIG. 2, a redundant description thereof will be omitted.

[0116] The manipulation interface (151) is a configuration for receiving user manipulation input. The manipulation interface (151) may include various types of input devices. For example, the manipulation interface (151) may include a physical button. The physical button may include a function key corresponding to a specific function, a directional key (e.g., a four-way key) for directional manipulation, or a dial button. According to various embodiments, the physical button may be implemented as multiple keys. According to another embodiment, the physical button may be implemented as one key. When the physical button is implemented as one key, the processor (140) may receive a user input in which one key is pressed for less than a threshold time or a user input in which one key is pressed for more than a threshold time. The processor (140) may perform different operations depending on the time for which the key is pressed. For example, when it is detected that the key is pressed for more than a threshold time, the processor (140) may turn on or off the power of the projector (100). If it is detected that the key has been pressed for less than a threshold time, the processor (140) may perform an action such as turning a light on or off. The function associated with the key may vary.

[0117] The operation interface (151) can receive user input using a touch method. For example, the operation interface (151) can also receive user input via a touch sensor or a proximity detection sensor.

[0118] The projector (100) can receive user input in various ways other than the above-described operation interface (151). In various embodiments, the projector (100) can receive user input through an external remote control device. The external remote control device may be a remote control device corresponding to the projector (100) (e.g., a dedicated remote control of the projector (100)) or a user's portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone or wearable device). The user can execute an application installed on the portable communication device owned by the user and input various user commands on the execution screen. The processor (140) can receive user commands through the communication interface (130) and perform operations corresponding to the user commands.

[0119] Alternatively, the projector (100) may receive user input using voice recognition. As shown in FIG. 3, if the projector (100) includes a microphone (155) or can receive an audio signal from an external microphone through a communication interface (130), the processor (140) may analyze the user's voice included in the audio signal received from the microphone (155) or the external microphone and perform a corresponding action.

[0120] Specifically, the processor (140) can convert an audio signal received from a microphone (155) or an external microphone into a digital signal, and then obtain text data using the STT (Speech To Text) function. The processor (140) can determine whether the obtained text data contains a user command, and if so, perform a corresponding operation. The above-described voice recognition process does not necessarily have to be performed directly by the processor (140), and may also be performed by an external voice recognition server.

[0121] Meanwhile, the projector (100) can receive user input using screen interaction. Screen interaction refers to a function in which the projector (100) performs a control operation corresponding to an event, such as when a user touches a point on an image projected by the projector (100) on the screen (or projection surface). For example, when a setting screen including various menus is projected on the projection surface, if the user selects a menu using at least one of various objects, such as a body part (e.g., a finger), a pointer, or a laser pointer, the processor (140) can recognize the selected menu and perform a setting operation corresponding to the menu.

[0122] The processor (140) may perform spatial analysis to identify whether screen interaction has occurred. To this end, the projector (100) may include a sensor unit (159). The sensor unit (159) may include at least one of sensors such as an image sensor, an infrared sensor, a depth camera, a distance sensor, and the like.

[0123] The processor (140) can identify whether an event occurs at a specific location (a location within the UI screen) by performing spatial analysis based on data sensed by the sensor unit (159). If an event is identified as occurring at a specific location, the projector (100) can perform an action equivalent to touching the location on the UI screen.

[0124] The input / output interface (152) is configured to input / output at least one of an audio signal and an image signal. The input / output interface (152) can receive at least one of an audio signal and an image signal from an external device, and can output a control command to the external device.

[0125] Depending on the implementation example, the input / output interface (152) may be implemented as an interface that inputs / outputs only audio signals and an interface that inputs / outputs only image signals, or may be implemented as one interface that inputs / outputs both audio signals and image signals.

[0126] Meanwhile, in various embodiments of the present disclosure, the input / output interface (152) may be implemented as at least one wired input / output interface among HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface), MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link), USB (Universal Serial Bus), USB C-type, DP (Display Port), Thunderbolt, VGA (Video Graphics Array) port, RGB port, D-SUB (Dsubminiature), and DVI (Digital Visual Interface). According to various embodiments, the wired input / output interface may be implemented as an interface that inputs / outputs only audio signals and an interface that inputs / outputs only image signals, or may be implemented as one interface that inputs / outputs both audio signals and image signals.

[0127] Additionally, the projector (100) can receive data via a wired input / output interface, but this is merely an example of various embodiments, and can also receive power via the wired input / output interface. For example, the projector (100) can receive power from an external battery via a USB C-type or from an outlet via a power adapter. As another example, the projector (100) can receive power from an external device (e.g., a laptop or monitor) via a DP.

[0128] Meanwhile, the audio signal may be implemented to be input through a wired input / output interface, and the image signal may be implemented to be input through a wireless input / output interface (or communication interface). Alternatively, the audio signal may be implemented to be input through a wireless input / output interface (or communication interface), and the image signal may be implemented to be input through a wired input / output interface. For convenience of explanation, in FIG. 3, the input / output interface (152) is illustrated separately from the communication interface (130), but when communication is performed with an external device through the input / output interface (152), the input / output interface (152) may also be viewed as a configuration included in the communication interface (130).

[0129] The display (153) is configured to display the operating status of the projector (100), notification messages, UI screens, etc. The display (153) can be implemented as various types of displays such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) display, a PDP (Plasma Display Panel), etc. The display (153) may also include a driving circuit, a backlight unit, etc., which can be implemented as a type such as an a-si TFT (amorphous silicon thin film transistor), an LTPS (low temperature poly silicon) TFT, an OTFT (organic TFT), etc. Meanwhile, the display (153) may be implemented as a touch screen combined with a touch sensor, a flexible display, a three-dimensional display (3D display, three-dimensional dispaly), etc. Alternatively, the display (153) may be implemented as only one or a plurality of light-emitting elements. The processor (140) can change the display status of the display (153) according to various states, such as when the projector (100) is turned on, in normal operation, insufficient power, or in an error state, so that the user can intuitively understand the status of the projector (100).

[0130] The speaker (154) is a component that outputs an audio signal. In Fig. 3, only the speaker (154) is illustrated, but various components such as an audio decoder, an audio output mixer, an audio signal processor, and an amplifier circuit for processing an audio signal may be further included in the projector (100). The speaker (154) may be composed of one or more speakers, and when implemented with multiple speakers, they may be arranged symmetrically on the exterior of the main body to output audio signals in all directions, that is, in all directions of 360 degrees.

[0131] The microphone (155) is a component for receiving various audio signals. The microphone (155) can receive a user's voice or other sounds and convert them into audio data. The microphone (155) can be formed integrally on the upper side, front side, side side, etc. of the projector (100). The projector (100) can include various components such as an amplifier circuit for amplifying an audio signal received through the microphone (155), an A / D conversion circuit for sampling the amplified audio signal and converting it into a digital signal, and a filter circuit for removing noise components from the converted digital signal.

[0132] The power supply unit (156) can receive power from an external source and supply power to various components of the projector (100). The power supply unit (156) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can receive power through various methods. In various embodiments, if a charging station (not shown) for charging is included in an environment such as FIG. 1, the power supply unit (156) can receive power through the charging station. Alternatively, the power supply unit (156) can receive power from an external device, power source, etc. through various wired or wireless charging methods.

[0133] The power supply unit (156) may include a battery. For example, when an external power source is connected, the power supply unit (156) may charge the battery using an electrical signal supplied from the external power source, and supply power to each component within the projector (100) using the charged internal battery. Alternatively, the power supply unit (156) may be implemented with a structure equipped with a replaceable battery.

[0134] The driving unit (157) is a component for moving at least one hardware component included in the projector (100). The driving unit (157) may include at least one motor, at least one shaft and gear for transmitting the power of the motor to another component. The driving unit (157) is controlled by the processor (140) and can transmit physical power to each hardware component within the projector (100).

[0135] The driving unit (157) can adjust the projection direction (or projection angle) of the projection unit (120). If the projection unit (120) is connected in a rotatable manner relative to the main body of the projector (100), the driving unit (157) can adjust the projection angle by rotating the main body part on which the projection unit (120) is installed, or can adjust the projection angle by rotating the main body of the projector (100) itself.

[0136] Additionally, the driving unit (157) can move the position of the projector (100). The driving unit (157) can control the moving member (158) to move the projector (100). For example, the driving unit (157) can control the moving member (158) using a motor.

[0137] The movable member (158) may refer to a member for moving the projector (100). For example, the movable member (158) may include a plurality of wheels, balls, rails, etc. When the driving unit (157) is driven, the rotational force of the motor is transmitted to the movable member (158) through at least one axis, thereby enabling the projector (100) to move.

[0138] The processor (140) can move to a target position using a driving unit (157) and a moving member (158).

[0139] When an event requiring movement to a specific location within a space occurs, the processor (140) checks map information about the space from the memory (120) and then sets a movement path to a target location based on the current location. For example, if the processor (140) determines that there is no obstacle on the straight path between the current location and the target location, it can determine a straight movement path. The processor (140) can control the driving unit (157) and the moving member (158) to move the main body of the projector (100) along the determined movement path. If the processor (140) determines that there is an obstacle on the straight path between the current location and the target location, it can determine an avoidance path to avoid the obstacle. The processor (140) can identify the location of each obstacle within the space based on the map information and set an avoidance path. Thereafter, the processor (140) can control the driving unit (157) and the moving member (158) to move the main body of the projector (100) along the avoidance path.

[0140] The sensor unit (159) may include at least one sensor. Specifically, the sensor unit (159) may include at least one of a tilt sensor for sensing the tilt of the projector (100) and an image sensor for capturing an image. Here, the tilt sensor may be an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor, and the image sensor may mean a camera or a depth camera. Meanwhile, the tilt sensor may be described as a motion sensor. In addition, the sensor unit (159) may include various sensors other than the tilt sensor or the image sensor. For example, the sensor unit (159) may include an illuminance sensor and a distance sensor. The distance sensor may be a ToF (Time of Flight). In addition, the sensor unit (159) may include a lidar sensor.

[0141] Meanwhile, the projector (100) can control the lighting function by linking with an external device. Specifically, the projector (100) can receive lighting information from the external device. Here, the lighting information can include at least one of brightness information or color temperature information set in the external device. Here, the external device can mean a device connected to the same network as the projector (100) (e.g., an IoT device included in the same home / work network) or a device that is not in the same network as the projector (100) but can communicate with the projector (100) (e.g., a remote control server). For example, assume that an external lighting device (IoT device) included in the same network as the projector (100) is outputting red light at a brightness of 50. The external lighting device (IoT device) can directly or indirectly transmit lighting information (e.g., information indicating that it is outputting red light at a brightness of 50) to the projector (100). Here, the projector (100) can control the output of the light source based on the lighting information received from the external lighting device. For example, if the lighting information received from an external lighting device includes information to output red light at a brightness of 50, the projector (100) can output red light at a brightness of 50.

[0142] Meanwhile, the projector (100) can control the lighting function based on biometric information. Specifically, the processor (140) can obtain the user's biometric information. Here, the biometric information can include at least one of the user's body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and electrocardiogram. Here, the biometric information can include various types of information in addition to the information described above. For example, the projector (100) can include a sensor for measuring biometric information. The processor (140) can obtain the user's biometric information through the sensor and control the output of the light source based on the obtained biometric information. As another example, the processor (140) can receive the biometric information from an external device through the input / output interface (152). Here, the external device can mean the user's portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone or a wearable device). The processor (140) can obtain the user's biometric information from the external device and control the output of the light source based on the obtained biometric information. Meanwhile, according to an implementation example, the projector (100) can identify whether the user is sleeping, and if the user is identified as sleeping (or preparing to sleep), the processor (140) can control the output of the light source based on the user's biometric information.

[0143] As described in FIG. 3, if the projector (100) further includes various configurations, the projector (100) can provide various smart functions.

[0144] Specifically, the projector (100) can be connected to a portable terminal device for controlling the projector (100). The processor (140) can receive user input from the portable terminal device through the communication interface (130) and control the projection unit (120) to output a screen corresponding to the user input. For example, the projector (100) can receive and output screen data provided by the portable terminal device, and the screen output from the projector (100) can be controlled according to user input from the portable terminal device.

[0145] The projector (100) can share content or music provided by the mobile terminal device by connecting to the mobile terminal device through various communication methods such as Miracast, Airplay, wireless DEX, and Remote PC.

[0146] In addition, the portable terminal device and the projector (100) can be connected in various ways. In various embodiments, the portable terminal device can search for the projector (100) to perform a wireless connection, or the projector (100) can search for the portable terminal device to perform a wireless connection. In addition, the projector (100) can output content provided by the portable terminal device.

[0147] In various embodiments, when a portable terminal device is placed near a projector (100) while specific content or music is being output from the portable terminal device, and a preset gesture is detected through the display of the portable terminal device (e.g., motion tap view), the projector (100) can output the content or music being output from the portable terminal device.

[0148] In various embodiments, when the portable terminal device is outputting specific content or music and the portable terminal device comes closer to the projector (100) to a preset distance or less (e.g., non-contact tap view) or the portable terminal device comes into contact with the projector (100) twice at short intervals (e.g., contact tap view), the projector (100) can output the content or music being output from the portable terminal device.

[0149] In the above-described embodiment, it has been described that the projector (100) provides the same screen as the screen provided by the mobile terminal device, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. That is, when a connection is established between the mobile terminal device and the projector (100), the mobile terminal device may output a first screen, and the projector (100) may output a second screen different from the first screen. For example, the first screen may be an execution screen of a first application installed on the mobile terminal device, and the second screen may be an execution screen of a second application installed on the mobile terminal device. As another example, the first screen and the second screen may be different screens provided by a single application installed on the mobile terminal device. As yet another example, the first screen may be a screen including a remote control-type UI for controlling the second screen. That is, the projector (100) and the mobile terminal device may each display related screens.

[0150] Meanwhile, the projector (100) may output a standby screen when no connection with an external device is made or when no input is received from the external device for a preset period of time. The conditions for the projector (100) to output a standby screen are not limited to the examples described above, and the standby screen may be output under various conditions.

[0151] The projector (100) can output a standby screen in the form of a blue screen, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the projector (100) can extract only the shape of a specific object from data received from an external device, acquire an amorphous object, and output a standby screen including the acquired amorphous object.

[0152] Meanwhile, the projector (100) may further include a shutter section (not shown).

[0153] The shutter unit (not shown) may include at least one of a shutter, a fixing member, a rail, or a body. The shutter may block light output from the projection unit (120). The fixing member may fix the position of the shutter. The rail may be configured to guide the movement path of the shutter and the fixing member. The body may be configured to include a shutter and a fixing member.

[0154] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a projector (100) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0155] Fig. 5 is a drawing showing a cross-section of the mobile projector of Fig. 4.

[0156] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, a projector (100) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may include a main body (10) and a moving member (158a, 158b).

[0157] The main body (10) forms the exterior of the projector (100), and a projection unit (110) and a driving unit (157) can be installed inside. The main body (10) can be formed in a cylindrical shape, and one side of the main body (10) can be formed to be openable.

[0158] The main body (10) may include a projection unit (120). In FIG. 4, the projection unit (120) is shown mounted in a projection unit receiving unit (12) provided within the main body (10) and covered by a projection unit cover (13).

[0159] The projection unit (120) can be installed in the main body (10) so as to emit an image in an upwardly inclined direction with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0160] The projection unit cover (13) can be formed transparently so that light emitted from the projection unit (110) installed in the projection unit receiving unit (12) can pass through.

[0161] The movable members (158a, 158b) can be installed on the left and right sides of the main body (10). FIG. 4 illustrates a case including a left movable member (158a) installed on the left side of the main body (10) and a right movable member (158b) installed on the right side of the main body (10). The movable members (158a, 158b) on both sides can be formed in the same shape so as to be symmetrical to each other.

[0162] An auxiliary wheel (158c) may be installed on the lower surface of the main body (10). The auxiliary wheel (158c) may be installed rotatably in a groove on the lower surface.

[0163] A power supply unit may be provided in the main body (10). For example, the power supply unit may be installed in the base (15). The power supply unit may be formed of a battery. For example, the power supply unit may be formed of a rechargeable battery.

[0164] Various sensors included in the sensor section (159) may be installed on the outer surface of the main body (10). FIG. 5 shows a state in which a distance sensor (159a), an image sensor (159b), a direction sensor (159c), an illuminance sensor (159d), etc. are installed.

[0165] The distance sensor (159a) may be, but is not limited to, a TOF (time of flight) sensor or an RGBD (red, green, blue, and depth) sensor.

[0166] The image sensor (159b) can capture images of the surroundings. The image sensor (159b) can capture images of the projection surface on which the projection unit (120) projects images.

[0167] The direction sensor (159c) can detect the direction in which the projection unit (120) of the projector (100) faces, i.e., the direction of the main body (10). Since the projection unit (120) is fixed to the main body (10), if the direction of the main body (10) is known, the direction of the projection unit (120) can be known. Accordingly, the processor (140) can detect the direction of the projector (100) based on the sensing value output from the direction sensor (159c). An acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, or the like can be used as the direction sensor (159c).

[0168] The main body (10) may be provided with a light sensor (94) capable of detecting the surrounding light.

[0169] A power switch (156a) that can turn the projector (100) on / off may be provided on the outer surface of the main body (10).

[0170] The main body (10) may be provided with a speaker (154) and at least one microphone (155). The speaker (154) and at least one microphone (155) may be installed inside the main body (10) adjacent to the outer surface of the main body (10).

[0171] At least one microphone (155) may be a directional microphone. At least one microphone (155) may be used for user voice recognition.

[0172] FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of a projector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 6, a projector (100) and at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, …, 200-n) may be connected to form a device group (S610). The projector (100) and at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, …, 200-n) may be directly connected via short-range communication such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to transmit and receive information. Alternatively, the projector (100) and at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, …, 200-n) may be connected via the same AP. Alternatively, the projector (100) and at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, …, 200-n) may be indirectly connected via a user terminal device or an external server to transmit and receive information via the user terminal device or the external server.

[0174] When a device group is formed, the devices forming the device group can transmit and receive information about the performance and status of the devices to each other (S620).

[0175] Specifically, the projector (100) can transmit information about the performance and status of the projector (100) to at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, …, 200-n). In addition, the projector (100) can receive information about the performance and status of each of the at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, …, 200-n). When information about the performance and status of at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, …, 200-n) is received, the projector (100) can store information about the performance and status of the at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, …, 200-n) in the memory (120). Information about the performance and status of the projector (100) itself may be pre-stored in the memory (120). At this time, information about the status of the projector (100) can be identified by the processor (140) based on signals transmitted from each component within the projector (100). For example, the processor (140) can identify the status of the projector (100) itself based on the sensing value of the sensor unit (159).

[0176] In the present disclosure, the functional performance information of a device may include information on the performance required for the device to perform its function. Specifically, the functional performance information of the device may include information on at least one of the device's control performance, projection performance, audio output performance, movement performance, camera performance, and tracking performance.

[0177] The control performance of a device may refer to the performance required to perform a control function. The control function may refer to the function of a main device to control a group of devices. Information regarding the control performance of a device may include, but is not limited to, information regarding whether a computing device is present, the computing speed of the computing device, memory capacity, and network connection speed.

[0178] The projection performance of a device may refer to the performance required to perform an image projection function. Information regarding the projection performance of the device may include, but is not limited to, information regarding at least one of the following: whether the device has a projection function, the maximum resolution of the projected image, the maximum brightness of the projected image, the contrast ratio of the projected image, the color reproducibility of the projected image, the maximum projection distance, and the remaining lamp life.

[0179] The audio output performance of a device may refer to the performance required to perform an audio output function. Information about the audio output performance may include, but is not limited to, information about at least one of outputtable volume level characteristics, whether audio output functions are available, audio output channels, and maximum audio output.

[0180] The device's mobility performance may refer to the performance required to perform a mobility function. Information regarding the mobility performance may include, but is not limited to, information regarding at least one of the following: whether the device has a mobility function, movement speed, whether it is capable of flight, rotation speed, and maximum movement distance.

[0181] The camera performance of a device may refer to the performance required to capture images with the camera. Information about camera performance may include, but is not limited to, information about whether the camera device is equipped, resolution, sensitivity, and dynamic range.

[0182] Information about the tracking performance of the device may include information about at least one of movement performance and camera performance.

[0183] In the present disclosure, the status information of the device may include information about at least one of the location of the device, the power status of the device, the network connection status of the device, and the environment of the device. Here, the device may be a projector (100) or at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, ..., 200-n).

[0184] Information about the location of the device may include, but is not limited to, information about the coordinates of the point where the device is located in map information about the space in which the device is located.

[0185] Information about the power status of the device may include, but is not limited to, information about at least one of the remaining power of the device, the on / off status of the device, the amount of time the device has been powered on, and whether the device is charging.

[0186] The network connection status of the device may include, but is not limited to, at least one of network connection bandwidth, network connection latency, and network connection signal.

[0187] Information about the device's environment may include information about environmental variables sensed by sensors provided in the device. For example, information about the device's environment may include, but is not limited to, information about illuminance values ​​detected by the device.

[0188] Based on the status and performance information of the devices constituting the device group, the projector (100) can identify the priorities of the devices constituting the device group (S630).

[0189] According to the identified priority, the projector (100) can identify a main device for controlling the device group among the device groups (S640). Here, the main device may refer to a device that comprehensively controls the device group among the devices constituting the device group.

[0190] That is, the projector (100) can identify the main device among the projector (100) and at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, ..., 200-n). At this time, if the projector (100) is identified as the main device, the projector (100) can control the operation of at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, ..., 200-n). In FIG. 6, the case where the processor (140) of the projector (100) identifies the projector (100) itself as the main device is described, but this is only one embodiment, and the projector (100) may be identified as the main device by an external device, a user terminal device, or an external server. In this case, the projector (100) can receive information notifying that the projector (100) has been identified as the main device from the external device, the user terminal device, or the external server.

[0191] The projector (100) can determine the functional priorities of the devices that make up the device group.

[0192] The functional priorities may include at least one of a priority for a control function, a priority for a projection function, a priority for an audio output function, a priority for a movement function, and a priority for a follow function.

[0193] Specifically, the priority for the control function may be a priority for determining the main device among a group of devices.

[0194] Additionally, the priority for the projection function may be a priority for determining an external projector to perform the projection function. Alternatively, the priority for the projection function may be a priority for determining a method for performing the projection function.

[0195] The priority for the audio output function may be a priority for determining which audio output device is to perform the audio output function. Alternatively, the priority for the audio output function may be a priority for determining how to perform the audio output function.

[0196] The priority for a movement function may be a priority for determining which movement device is to perform the movement function. Alternatively, the priority for a movement function may be a priority for determining how to perform the movement function.

[0197] The priority for a camera function may be a priority for determining a camera shooting device to perform the camera shooting function. Alternatively, the priority for a camera function may be a priority for determining how to perform the camera shooting function.

[0198] The priority for a tracking function may be a priority for determining which tracking device performs the tracking function. Alternatively, the priority for a tracking function may be a priority for determining how to perform the tracking function.

[0199] At this time, the information that serves as the basis for determining the priority by function may be device performance information and status information. Specifically, the priority by function may be determined so that a device with higher performance required to perform the function is given higher priority. Alternatively, the priority by function may be determined so that a device in a suitable state to perform the function is given higher priority. Alternatively, the priority by function may be determined so that a device with higher performance required to perform the function and in a suitable state to perform the function is given higher priority.

[0200] Specifically, the priority for a control function may be determined higher as the performance required to perform the control function improves. For example, the priority for a control function may be determined higher as the computational speed increases.

[0201] Alternatively, the priority for a control function may be determined such that a device in a suitable state to perform the control function has a higher priority. For example, the priority for a control function may be determined to be higher for devices with a higher network connection speed, a stronger network connection signal, higher remaining power, longer operating time, more history of being designated as the main device, or a longer period of time the device has been powered on.

[0202] The priority for the projection function may be determined such that a device with higher projection performance for performing the projection function has a higher priority than a device with lower projection performance. For example, the priority for the projection function may be determined to be higher as the resolution of the projected image increases, the brightness of the projectable image increases, the color reproducibility of the projectable image increases, and the projection distance increases.

[0203] Alternatively, the priority for the projection function may be determined such that the priority of a device with a projection function is higher than the priority of a device without a projection function.

[0204] Alternatively, the priority for the projection function may be determined such that a device in a suitable state for performing the projection function is given a higher priority. For example, the priority for the projection function may be determined to be higher based on factors such as the remaining power, the device's power-on time, the remaining lamp life, or the number of projections performed by an external projector.

[0205] Meanwhile, the priority for audio output functions may be determined such that a device with higher audio output performance for performing the audio output function has a higher priority. For example, the priority for audio output functions may be determined to be higher as the number of audio output channels increases and the maximum audio output increases.

[0206] Alternatively, the priority for audio output capabilities may be determined such that a device with audio output capabilities has a higher priority than a device without audio output capabilities.

[0207] Meanwhile, the priority for the audio output function may be determined such that a device in a suitable state to perform the audio output function has a higher priority. For example, the priority for the audio output function may be determined to be higher as the remaining power level increases.

[0208] The priority for a movement function may be determined such that a device with higher movement performance for performing the movement function has a higher priority. For example, the priority for a movement function may be determined to be higher for devices with higher movement speeds, higher rotational speeds, or longer maximum movement distances.

[0209] Alternatively, the priority for the movement function may be determined such that the priority of a device with the movement function is higher than the priority of a device without the movement function.

[0210] Alternatively, the priority for the movement function may be determined such that a device in a suitable state to perform the movement function has a higher priority. For example, the priority for the movement function may be determined to be higher when the remaining power is higher.

[0211] Priority for camera functions can be determined so that devices with higher camera performance for video recording are given higher priority. For example, camera functions with higher resolution, larger aperture, higher lens quality, and noise reduction capabilities may be given higher priority.

[0212] Alternatively, the priority for the camera function may be determined such that a device with a camera has a higher priority than a device without a camera.

[0213] Alternatively, the priority for camera functions may be determined so that devices in a suitable state for performing video recording functions are given higher priority. For example, the priority for camera functions may be determined higher when the remaining power is higher.

[0214] Meanwhile, the priority for the tracking function can be determined so that a device with higher tracking performance for performing the tracking function has a higher priority. For example, the priority for the tracking function can be determined higher for devices with higher movement speeds, higher rotation speeds, longer maximum movement distances, and higher computational speeds.

[0215] Alternatively, the priority for the tracking function may be determined such that a device with the tracking function has a higher priority than a device without the tracking function. For example, the priority for the tracking function may be determined such that a device with a movement function has a higher priority than a device without the movement function. Alternatively, the priority for the tracking function may be determined such that a device with a camera has a higher priority than a device without the camera.

[0216] Alternatively, the priority for the tracking function may be determined such that a device in a suitable state to perform the tracking function has a higher priority. For example, the priority for the tracking function may be determined to be higher when the device has more remaining power, is closer to the user's location, or has more tracked device history.

[0217] Meanwhile, the priority by function may be determined based on a specific performance or specific state required to perform the function, but this is only one embodiment, and the projector (100) may assign a score to each of the functional performance and state of the device, and identify a device with a higher assigned score as a device with a higher priority.

[0218] Specifically, the projector (100) can assign a score to each of at least one control performance. Specifically, the projector (100) can assign different scores depending on the control performance of the device.

[0219] For example, when assigning a score for the computational speed performance of a device, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.1 if the computational speed of any device is less than 200 MHz. Alternatively, if the computational speed of the device is 200 MHz or more and less than 400 MHz, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.2 to the computational speed performance. Alternatively, if the computational speed of the device is 400 MHz or more, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.3 to the computational speed performance. In this example, a case where different scores are assigned in units of a range such as 200 MHz has been described, but if the unit of a range is set to a small value such as 1 MHz, scores may be assigned precisely.

[0220] As another example, when assigning a score for memory capacity performance, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.1 when the memory capacity of the device is less than 500 MB. Alternatively, if the memory capacity of the device is greater than or equal to 500 MB and less than 1 GB, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.2 to the memory capacity performance. Alternatively, if the memory capacity is greater than or equal to 1 GB, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.3 to the memory capacity performance.

[0221] The processor (140) may identify a device with a higher score for one of the control performances as having a higher priority. Alternatively, the processor (140) may identify a device with a higher total score for at least one control performance. Alternatively, the processor (140) may assign a weight to the score for at least one control performance and identify a device with a higher total score for the weighted scores as having a higher priority.

[0222] The processor (140) can identify a device in a state more suitable for performing a control function as having a higher priority.

[0223] The processor (140) may assign a score to each state of at least one device. Specifically, if the value representing the first state of the device is a first value, the processor (140) may assign the first score to the first state of the device. If the value representing the first state of the device is a second value higher than the first value, the processor (140) may assign the second score higher than the first score to the first state of the device.

[0224] For example, if the remaining power of the device is less than 30%, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.1 to the remaining power of the device. In addition, if the remaining power of the device is greater than or equal to 30% and less than or equal to 60%, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.2 to the remaining power of the device. In addition, if the remaining power is greater than or equal to 60%, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.3 to the remaining power of the device.

[0225] For example, if the history of the device being determined as the main device is less than two times, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.1 to the history of the device being determined as the main device. If the history of the device being determined as the main device is more than two times but less than four times, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.2 to the history of the device being determined as the main device. In addition, if the history of the device being determined as the main device is more than four times, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.3 to the history of the device being determined as the main device.

[0226] For example, if the network connection speed of the device is 10 Mbps or less, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.1 to the network connection speed of the device. Alternatively, if the network connection speed of the device is 10 Mbps or more and less than 50 Mbps, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.2 to the network connection speed of the device. Alternatively, if the network connection speed of the device is 50 Mbps or more, the processor (140) may assign a score of 0.3 to the network connection speed of the device.

[0227] The processor (140) may identify a device with a higher score for the first state as having a higher priority. Alternatively, the processor (140) may identify a device with a higher sum of scores for each of at least one state as having a higher priority. Alternatively, the processor (140) may assign weights to the scores of each of at least one state and identify a device with a higher sum of the weighted scores as having a higher priority.

[0228] Accordingly, the functional scores of each device constituting the device group may be as shown in Fig. 7.

[0229] Alternatively, the processor (140) may identify a device with a higher priority based on the sum of the scores for each of at least one control performance and each of the scores for each of the states for performing at least one control function. Alternatively, the processor (140) may identify a device with a higher priority based on the sum of the scores for each of at least one control performance and each of the scores for each of the states for performing at least one control function.

[0230] Alternatively, the processor (140) may classify each of at least one control performance into a specific category (e.g., high, medium, low) or a specific level (e.g., Level 1, Level 2, Level 3). Specifically, the projector (100) may classify the first control performance into the first category or the first level if the first control performance has a first value. In addition, the projector (100) may classify the first control performance into the second category or the second level if the first control performance has a second value higher than the first value. In this case, the processor (140) may identify a priority of a device whose control performance is classified into the second category or the second level as higher than a priority of a device whose control performance is classified into the first category or the first level.

[0231] Likewise, the processor (140) may classify each state for performing at least one control function into a specific category or a specific level. Specifically, the processor (140) may classify the first state into a first category or a first level if the first state is a first value. In addition, the processor (140) may classify the first state into a second category or a second level if the first state is a second value higher than the first value. In this case, the processor (140) may identify the priority of a device whose control performance is classified into the second category or the second level as higher than the priority of a device whose control performance is classified into the first category or the first level.

[0232] Accordingly, the functional categories or levels of each device constituting the device group may be as illustrated in Fig. 8. Fig. 7 is data in which the functional scores of each device are specifically recorded, and Fig. 8 is data in which the functional categories of each device are recorded in stages such as high, medium, and low, rather than in score units.

[0233] The processor (140) may identify a device with a higher priority than the device with a higher sum of values ​​corresponding to the categories or levels for each of at least one control performance (e.g., 0.1 for the first category and 0.2 for the second category). Alternatively, the processor (140) may identify a device with a higher priority than the device with a higher sum of values ​​corresponding to the categories or levels for a state for performing at least one control function. Alternatively, the processor (140) may identify a device with a higher priority than the device with a higher sum of values ​​corresponding to the categories or levels for each of at least one control performance and values ​​corresponding to the categories or levels for performing at least one control function. Alternatively, the processor (140) may assign weights to values ​​corresponding to the categories or levels for each of at least one control performance, assign weights to values ​​corresponding to the categories or levels for performing at least one control function, and assign weights to devices with a higher priority than the device with a higher sum of the weighted values.

[0234] As described above, the processor (140) can identify a priority for the projection function, a priority for the audio output function, a priority for the movement function, a priority for the camera function, and a priority for the tracking function.

[0235] Once the functional priorities are identified, the processor (140) can determine the main device among the device groups based on the priorities for the control functions. At this time, the projector (100) can determine the device with the highest priority for the control function among the device groups as the main device.

[0236] When the projector (100) is determined as the main device, the processor (140) can control the device group to work together to play content.

[0237] Specifically, once the functional priorities of each device constituting the device group are identified, the processor (140) can identify at least one external device, an operating location, and an operating operation for performing an operation to play content. At this time, the identified at least one external device can perform an operation to play content in conjunction with each other.

[0238] Meanwhile, external devices, operating locations, and operating actions may be identified based on at least one of functional priorities, content being played, and content playback environments.

[0239] An external device may be a device among a group of devices that performs an action for playing content. In this case, the external device may be selected as, but is not limited to, a projector for projecting content images, an audio output device for outputting content audio, or a mobile device for performing a movement action.

[0240] Based on the priority by function, the content being played, and the content playing environment, the processor (140) can identify the number of external devices to be linked with the projector (100). When the number of external devices is identified based on at least one of the priority by function, the content being played, and the content playing environment, the processor (140) can identify at least one operating device in order of priority for the function required to play the content.

[0241] Specifically, the content being played may include a video signal. If the content is a large-screen or high-definition video, multiple projectors may be required to project the content onto the projection surface. Each of the multiple projectors can project a segmented portion of the large-screen or high-definition video. Accordingly, the images projected from the multiple projectors can form a single, integrated screen.

[0242] The processor (140) can identify the number of external devices for projecting an image, i.e., external projectors, depending on the size and resolution of the image. At this time, the number of external projectors identified may increase as the size of the image increases. Alternatively, the number of external projectors may increase as the resolution of the image increases. In other words, the number of external projectors may correspond to at least one of the size and resolution of the image.

[0243] For example, if the resolution of the image is FHD, the processor (140) can identify the number of projectors for projecting the image as 1. Or, if the resolution of the image is UHD, the processor (140) can identify the number of projectors for projecting the image as 3. Or, if the size of the projected image is 40 inches, the processor (140) can identify the number of projectors for projecting the image as 1. Or, if the size of the projected image is 100 inches, the processor (140) can identify the number of projectors for projecting the image as 3.

[0244] Accordingly, if the content is content including a video signal, the processor (140) can identify a number of projectors corresponding to the image among the device group, each of which has a projection function and has a high priority for the projection function.

[0245] For example, if the number of projectors is identified as three, the processor (140) can identify three projectors in order of priority for the projection function among the device groups. In this case, the processor (140) can also determine whether the projector (100) itself will participate in the projection function based on the priority. For example, if the priority for the projection function of the projector (100) is lower than that of other external projectors, the processor (140) can select all three projectors among the external devices. However, this is not limited thereto, and according to another embodiment, the processor (140) can control the projector (100) itself to unconditionally participate in the projection function regardless of the priority. In this case, the processor (140) can additionally select only two external projectors among the external devices. Accordingly, a total of three projectors, including the projector (100), can perform the projection function together.

[0246] Below, various services provided by the projector (100) in conjunction with at least one external device are described in detail.

[0247] FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 are drawings for explaining a method for a projector (100) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure to identify at least one external device to be linked with the projector (100).

[0248] Referring to FIG. 9, the projector (100) and at least one external device (200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) may form one device group. Referring to FIG. 9, the remaining power of the projector (100) and the first external device (200-1) may be 90% or more, the remaining power of the second external device (200-2) may be 100%, the remaining power of the third external device (200-3) may be less than 10%, and the remaining power of the fourth external device (200-4) may be less than 5%.

[0249] In this case, the processor (140) can identify three devices with high priority for projection function within the device group: the projector (100), the first external device (200-1), and the second external device (200-2).

[0250] When the number of projectors required to project content images is three, the processor (140) can control the projector (100), the first external device (200-1), and the second external device (200-2) to work together to project images, as illustrated in FIG. 10. That is, the processor (140) controls the driving unit (157) and the moving member (158) to move the main body of the projector (100) itself to the projection position, and can transmit data corresponding to movement of the projector (100) to one side to the first external device (200-1) and the second external device (200-2). Here, the data corresponding to movement of the projector (100) to one side may be a control signal for moving the projector (100) to one side. The control signal may include coordinate information about the positions where the first external device (200-1) and the second external device (200-2) are respectively located.

[0251] The first external device (200-1) and the second external device (200-2) can move around the projector (100) and project an image onto the projection surface according to a control signal.

[0252] The projected image may include two or more contents. The contents may include multimedia contents including both audio signals and video signals, video contents including only video signals, audio contents including only audio signals, Internet contents, application execution screens, documents, file directory screen contents, etc. When at least one external projector having a projection function is linked with the projector (100), the processor (140) may control the projection unit (120) and at least one external projector to project one content together in the same area, to project one content separately in each projection area, or to project multiple contents separately.

[0253] When multiple contents are projected, one of the multiple contents may be the main content and the rest may be additional contents.

[0254] Additional content can be related information screens related to the main content. For example, if the main content is multimedia content such as a movie or drama, the additional content could be a search results screen for people or products included in the main content. Alternatively, if the main content is a sports broadcast, the additional content could include score information, information about the teams or players participating in the game, records of previous games, highlight videos, and game analysis.

[0255] The projector (100) can identify the number of projectors for outputting main content and the number of projectors for outputting additional content.

[0256] That is, if there are multiple external devices with projection functions, the processor (140) can transmit data corresponding to projection of at least a portion of the main content to at least one of the multiple external devices with projection functions in conjunction with the projector (100). In addition, the processor (140) can transmit data corresponding to projection of the additional content to the remaining devices among the multiple external devices with projection functions.

[0257] The method of identifying the number of projectors for outputting main content and the method of identifying the number of projectors for outputting additional content have been described above, so a duplicate explanation will be omitted.

[0258] When multiple external devices having a projection function are linked with the projector (100), the processor (140) generates a control signal for causing at least one of the multiple external devices to link with the projector (100) to project at least a portion of the content, and transmits the control signal to the external device. The processor (140) can generate data corresponding to projection of additional content related to the content projected by the projector (100), and transmit the data to the remaining devices among the multiple external devices. Here, the data corresponding to projection of additional content may be a control signal for projecting the additional content. In the present disclosure, for the convenience of explanation, the content projected by the projector (100) may be referred to as main content, but is not limited thereto.

[0259] FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are diagrams illustrating a method for a device group to project two or more contents according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0260] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the processor (140) can control the projector (100) and the first external device (200-1) to project the main content (710) in conjunction with each other, and can control the second external device (200-2) to project the additional content (720).

[0261] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the main content (710) may be a sports game video, and the additional content (720) may be score information of the sports game.

[0262] The processor (140) can determine both the main content and the additional content based on user selection. Alternatively, if the main content is determined based on user selection, the processor (140) can arbitrarily determine the additional content.

[0263] For example, if a user inputs a search term “Team A’s soccer game,” the processor (140) may select a broadcast screen of Team A’s soccer game as the main content, and select various search results based on the search term “Team A” as additional content. Once the main content and the additional content are each determined, the processor (140) may directly provide data (e.g., video stream) for each content to the first external device (200-1) and the second external device (200-2). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the processor (140) may also provide source information (e.g., URL or broadcast channel number, etc.) for the content to be output from the first external device (200-1) and the second external device (200-2) to the first external device (200-1) and the second external device (200). Alternatively, the processor (140) may provide identification information that can identify the main content and sub-content selected by the user, and information about the sub-content, to the first external device (200-1) and the second external device (200-2), respectively, so that each external device can directly search for and output the content.

[0264] Meanwhile, the external device that plays the additional content described above may be a projector as described above. However, this is merely an example, and the external device that plays the additional content may be a display device. In this case, the display device may be implemented in various forms, such as a user terminal device including a display, a TV, a smartphone, or a projector. Furthermore, the display device can display the additional content through its display.

[0265] Specifically, the processor (140) can control the projector (100) to project main content and control the display device to display additional content. At this time, the projector (100) can transmit information for displaying the additional content to the display device. Here, the information for displaying the additional content can include data regarding the content to be output or source information regarding the content to be output.

[0266] At this time, a display device for playing additional content may be preset, but this is only one embodiment, and the processor (140) may also receive an additional content display request signal from the display device.

[0267] In this case, when a signal requesting display of additional content is received from the display device, the processor (140) can transmit information for displaying additional content to the display device.

[0268] Meanwhile, the projector (100) may project main content and the display device may display additional content, but this is only one embodiment, and the processor (140) may control an external device to project main content or control the projector (100) to display additional content.

[0269] Specifically, the processor (140) may control at least one external projector to project main content and control a display device to display additional content. Alternatively, the projector (100) may control at least one external projector to project main content and control a display (153) to display additional content.

[0270] Meanwhile, the content being played may be content including a video signal and an audio signal. The processor (140) may transmit a control signal to at least one external device having a projection function among the external devices so as to move to one side of the projector (100) and output at least a portion of the video signal in conjunction with the projector (100). In this case, if the priority for the projection function is identified and stored in the memory (120), the processor (140) may identify the external projector based on the priority.

[0271] Meanwhile, the processor (140) can determine whether at least one external device includes an audio output device. If at least one external device includes multiple audio output devices, the processor (140) can identify the number of audio output devices for outputting audio signals according to the channels of the audio signal. At this time, the number of audio output devices can increase as the number of output channels of the audio signal increases. In other words, the number of audio output devices can correspond to the channels of the audio signal.

[0272] For example, if the output channel of the audio signal is 4 channels, the projector (100) can identify the number of audio output devices for outputting the audio signal as 4. And, if the output channel of the audio signal is 2 channels, the projector (100) can identify the number of audio output devices for outputting the audio signal as 2.

[0273] When the number of audio output devices is smaller than the number of audio output channels, the processor (140) can identify an audio output device capable of outputting an audio signal at a location (e.g., left and right or left rear and right rear) that can maximize the audio listening effect.

[0274] The processor (140) can transmit a control signal to the identified audio output device to move to the sound source location of the audio signal and output the audio signal. For example, if there are two audio output devices, the processor (140) transmits a control signal to each external device, i.e., the audio output device, to move to the left and right of the user, respectively, and output a left surround audio signal and a right surround audio signal.

[0275] The processor (140) can identify at least one audio output device among the device group in order of priority for audio output function.

[0276] Meanwhile, the content playback environment may include information about the illumination of the content playback space. In this case, the illumination of the content playback space may be detected by a illumination sensor included in the sensor unit (159) of the projector (100).

[0277] The processor (140) can determine the number of projectors for projecting images based on the detected illuminance. When the illuminance is low, the brightness value required for a user to view the projected image may increase. Accordingly, the lower the detected illuminance, the more projectors for projecting images may be used. In other words, the processor (140) can identify the number of projectors for projecting images based on the detected illuminance.

[0278] At this time, if the detected illuminance is the first illuminance, the processor (140) can identify the number of projectors for projecting the image as n1. And, if the detected illuminance is the second illuminance, the processor (140) can identify the number of projectors for projecting the image as n2. Assuming that the second illuminance is a value greater than the first illuminance, n2 can be set to a value greater than n1. The processor (140) can identify the number of devices to be involved in projecting the content based on the priority. That is, if n2 projectors are identified, the processor (140) can determine that n2 projectors among all projectors in the device group are involved in projecting the content in order of priority.

[0279] FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 are drawings for explaining a method for a projector (100) to control each device according to a sensed illuminance according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0280] For example, referring to FIG. 13, if the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor is the first illuminance (e.g., 5 lux), the processor (140) can identify the number of projectors for projecting an image as 1. Accordingly, the processor (140) identifies the projector (100) with the highest priority for projection function among the device groups (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) as projecting content. Accordingly, the processor (140) controls the driving unit and the moving member to move to a predetermined position, and controls the projection unit (120) to project content at that position.

[0281] Fig. 14 illustrates a case where the illuminance detected by the processor (140) increases. For example, when a second illuminance (e.g., 30 lux) is detected, the brightness needs to be increased to enhance the legibility of the content. When the processor (140) detects that the illuminance in the environment has changed from the first illuminance to the second illuminance, the processor (140) can identify the number of projectors for projecting the image as three. Accordingly, the processor (140) can control the three devices (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) to project the image in order of priority for the projection function. Since the projector (100) is currently projecting an image, the processor (140) additionally transmits a control signal to the first and second external devices (200-1, 200-2) to move next to the projector (100) and project an image.

[0282] As described above, when the number of projectors for projecting an image is identified, the projector (100) can identify the identified number of devices in order of priority for the projection function as at least one projector.

[0283] The processor (140) can determine the position of the projector (100) and external projectors according to the number of contents to be displayed, size, ambient illumination, size of the projection surface, position, etc., together with the external projector.

[0284] For example, if one content is to be displayed by overlapping it in the same area within the projection surface in order to increase brightness, the processor (140) controls the driving unit and the moving member so that the projector (100) is positioned at a point appropriately spaced from the projection surface between the projection surface and the user position, taking into account the horizontal and vertical sizes of the content, the user position, and the position of the projection surface. When the position of the projector (100) is determined, the processor (140) moves to a position close to one or both sides of the projector (100) and transmits data corresponding to the projection of the content in the same area to at least one external projector.

[0285] For another example, if a single content is to be displayed on a wider screen, the processor (140) first determines the position of the projector (100) by considering the horizontal and vertical sizes of the content, the user's position, and the position of the projection surface. The processor (140) may divide an image of a single content into multiple parts, determine an external projector to project each divided image, and then set the projection positions of the external projectors to positions that are spaced apart from the projector (100) by a certain distance or more. The processor (140) may determine the projection positions of each external projector as positions where each divided image can be connected to each other on the projection surface to form a single integrated screen. The processor (140) may determine the projection positions by considering the wide angles of the projection unit (120) and each external projector. The processor (140) transmits data corresponding to the determined projection position movement to each external projector through the communication interface (130).

[0286] That is, the processor (140) can move to one side of the projector (100) and transmit data corresponding to one integrated screen projection linked to the projector (100) to the external device having the projection function, for at least one external device having a projection function. Specifically, the processor (140) can move to one side of the projector (100) and generate a control signal to project one integrated screen linked to the projector (100), and transmit the generated control signal to the external device.

[0287] For another example, when the processor (140) wants to express one main content and at least one additional content, it can first identify the device to display the main content and the device to display the additional content among the projector (100) and the external projectors (200-1, 200-2), and then transmit a control signal to cause the devices to display the main content to be positioned together within a distance where the images can be connected to each other, and cause the devices to display the additional content to be spaced apart from the device to display the main content by a certain distance or more. That is, the processor (140) can control to move to the positions illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, respectively.

[0288] And, when the number of audio output devices for outputting audio is identified, the projector (100) can identify the identified number of devices in order of priority for audio output function as at least one audio output device.

[0289] Once at least one external device (e.g., a projector or an audio output device) to be interfaced with the projector (100) is identified, the processor (140) can identify the operating position of each external device.

[0290] Specifically, when at least one external projector is identified, the processor (140) can identify a projection location at which the at least one external projector will project an image.

[0291] And, when at least one audio output device is identified, the processor (140) can identify a sound source location for the at least one audio output device to output audio. The audio output location can be determined according to the number of audio output channels as described above. For example, in the case of 5.1 channels, the processor (140) can determine a total of five sound source locations, such as the user's front, left front, right front, left rear, and right rear, and transmit a control signal including location information (e.g., coordinate values) for each sound source location to at least one audio output device.

[0292] As described above, for location identification and synchronization, the memory (120) may store map information about the space where the projector (100) is located. At this time, the map information may include at least one of information about the location of the wall of the space where the projector (100) is located, information about the location of an obstacle, information about the projection surface, and information about the location of a device constituting a device group. At this time, the map information may be information generated based on information sensed by the sensor unit (159) included in the projector (100). When the processor (140) generates map information, it may share the map information with at least one external device through the communication interface (130). Alternatively, the processor (140) may receive map information from at least one external device and store the map information in the memory (120).

[0293] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining map information according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0294] Referring to FIG. 15, map information (1500) can store information about the walls of the space where the device group (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4) is located, information about the location of an obstacle, information about the projection surface (1510), and information about the location of each device that constitutes the device group (100, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4).

[0295] At this time, based on the map information stored in the memory (120), the processor (140) can identify the operating positions of at least one external device and the projector. At this time, the number of identified operating positions may be equal to the number of devices participating in the projection function.

[0296] If the processor (140) determines that only the projector (100) is performing projection, it can identify the projection surface and identify the projection position based on the position of the identified projection surface.

[0297] Specifically, the processor (140) can identify a wall or screen around the projector (100) as a projection surface by using an image of the projector (100) surroundings acquired through an image sensor. Then, based on the map information stored in the memory (120) and information about the identified projection surface, the processor (140) can identify an operating position of an external device. At this time, the operating position of at least one external device can be identified as one side (e.g., left or right) of the projector (100).

[0298] Meanwhile, if at least one external device is an audio output device, the processor (140) can identify an audio output location for outputting audio. At this time, the processor (140) can identify the sound source location of the audio signal as the audio output location.

[0299] Specifically, the processor (140) can identify the user's location using an image of the projector's (100) surroundings acquired through an image sensor. Once the user's location is identified, the projector (100) can identify the sound source location of the audio signal as the audio output location based on the identified user's location.

[0300] For example, if the output channel of the audio signal is 2 channels, the left side of the position of the identified user can be identified as an audio output position for outputting an audio signal corresponding to the L channel, and the right side of the position of the identified user can be identified as an audio output position for outputting an audio signal corresponding to the R channel.

[0301] Alternatively, the processor (140) may identify information about the location of at least one external device located around the projector (100) by using an image of the projector (100) surroundings acquired using an image sensor or a distance sensor.

[0302] In addition, the projector (100) can use the map information stored in the memory (120) and the information on the location of at least one external device to set a movement path for at least one external device to move to an operating position, and transmit information on the movement path to at least one external device. Accordingly, even if the at least one mobile device cannot identify the map information and location information on its own, it can move to the operating position according to the movement path information provided by the projector (100).

[0303] Meanwhile, if the content includes a video signal for the main content and a video signal for the additional content, the processor (140) can identify a projection position for projecting the main content and a projection position for projecting the additional content. In this case, the projection position for projecting the additional content may be a position for projecting the additional content on one side of the main content, but is not limited thereto.

[0304] If the content includes an audio signal, the projector (100) can identify the sound source location of the audio signal as the audio output location.

[0305] Specifically, as described above, the projector (100) can identify audio output locations based on the output channels of the audio signal and the user's location. For example, if the audio signal is 4 channels, the projector (100) can identify the left and right sides in front of the user as audio output locations, and the left and right sides behind the user as audio output locations, based on the user's viewing direction.

[0306] Alternatively, the processor (140) may identify the audio output location based on the output channel of the audio signal and the location of the projection surface. For example, if the audio signal is 4 channels, the processor (140) may identify the left and right points of the projection surface among points that are a preset first distance away from the projection surface as audio output locations, and may identify the left and right points of the projection surface among points that are a preset second distance away from the projection surface as audio output locations. In this case, the second distance may be longer than the first distance.

[0307] When at least one external device moves into an operating position, the processor (140) can control at least one operating device to perform an operating action.

[0308] Here, the operating action may be an action required to play content. Specifically, the operating action may be at least one of an action of projecting an image and an action of outputting sound, but is not limited thereto.

[0309] When the operating action is an action of projecting an image, the processor (140) can control at least one external device to project a single integrated image in conjunction with the projector (100). In this case, the projector (100) and the at least one external device can each project a portion of the integrated image.

[0310] At this time, the processor (140) can control the amount of projection light of the projection unit (120) and at least one external device.

[0311] Specifically, the processor (140) can control the projection unit (120) and at least one external device to project an image with a projection light amount corresponding to an illuminance value detected by each device. For example, when the illuminance value detected by the first external device is a first illuminance value, the processor (140) can control the first external device to project an image with a first brightness. In addition, when the illuminance value detected by the second external device is a second illuminance value higher than the first illuminance value, the processor (140) can control the second external device to project an image with a second brightness higher than the first brightness.

[0312] Alternatively, if the remaining power of the first external device is a first value and the remaining power of the second external device is a second value higher than the first value, the processor (140) may control the first external device to project an image at a first brightness and control the second external device to project an image at a second brightness higher than the first brightness.

[0313] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 16, the processor (140) can control a first external device with 50% of remaining power to project an image at a first brightness, and control a processor (140) with 100% of remaining power to project an image at a second brightness higher than the first brightness.

[0314] And, if the operating action is an action that outputs audio, the processor (140) can control at least one external device to output an audio signal corresponding to the audio sound source location.

[0315] Specifically, when the audio signal is a multi-channel audio signal, the processor (140) can control an audio output device located at a sound source location corresponding to a first channel among the multi-channels to output an audio signal corresponding to the first channel. In addition, the processor (140) can control an audio output device located at a sound source location corresponding to a second channel among the multi-channels to output an audio signal corresponding to the second channel.

[0316] For example, if the audio signal is a two-channel audio signal, the processor (140) can control an audio output device located at a sound source position corresponding to the L channel among the two channels to output an audio signal corresponding to the L channel. In addition, the processor (140) can control an audio output device located at a sound source position corresponding to the R channel among the two channels to output an audio signal corresponding to the R channel.

[0317] At this time, the sound source location corresponding to the channel of the audio signal can be identified based on the user's location. For example, the sound source location corresponding to the L channel of the audio signal may be located to the user's left. Furthermore, the sound source location corresponding to the R channel of the audio signal may be located to the user's right.

[0318] Meanwhile, the processor (140) can control the audio output direction of the audio output device. Specifically, the processor (140) can control at least one audio output device so that each audio output device outputs audio in the direction of the user's position. Accordingly, the processor (140) can provide the user with a realistic audio playback experience.

[0319] At this time, the processor (140) can detect the user's location and transmit information about the user's location to at least one audio output device. Then, based on the received information about the user's location, the at least one audio output device can output audio in the direction in which the user is located.

[0320] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 17, if the third external device (200-3) and the fourth external device (200-4) are identified as audio output devices, the processor (140) can control the third external device (200-3) and the fourth external device (200-4) to output audio in the direction in which the user (1) is located.

[0321] Alternatively, at least one audio output device may detect the user's location. Based on the information about the detected user's location, at least one audio output device may output audio in the direction of the user's location.

[0322] Meanwhile, if a preset event occurs while at least one external device is performing an operation, the processor (140) can adjust the operation of the at least one external device.

[0323] Specifically, the preset event may be an event in which status information of at least one external device changes.

[0324] According to one or more embodiments, the preset event may be an event in which the remaining power of one or more of the at least one external device falls below a preset value.

[0325] At this time, the processor (140) can reduce the projection light amount of the projector (100) and at least one external device whose remaining power falls below a preset value. In addition, the processor (140) can increase the projection light amount of the remaining devices among the projector (100) and at least one external device. Accordingly, even if the projection light amount of the device among the projector (100) and at least one external device whose remaining power falls below a preset value decreases, the projection light amount of the entire projected image can be maintained.

[0326] Specifically, when the external device moves to one side of the projector (100) and projects one integrated screen according to a control signal, if the remaining power of the external device is less than a preset value, the processor (140) can transmit data corresponding to a decrease in the light amount of the external device to the external device. That is, when the remaining power of the external device is reduced to less than a preset value during the projection of one integrated screen, the processor (140) can generate a control signal to reduce the light amount of the external device and transmit the generated control signal to the external device. In addition, the processor (140) can increase the light amount of the projection unit (120).

[0327] Alternatively, when an external device moves to one side of the projector (100) according to a control signal and the projector (100) is projecting one integrated screen, if the remaining power of the projector (100) is less than a preset value, the processor (140) may transmit data corresponding to an increase in the amount of light of the external device to the external device. That is, when the remaining power of the projector (100) decreases below a preset value during the projection of one integrated screen, the processor (140) may transmit a control signal to the external device to increase the amount of light of the external device. In addition, the processor (140) may also decrease the amount of light of the projection unit (120).

[0328] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the projector (100) and the first external device (200-1) can project an image at a first brightness. While the projector (100) and the first external device (200-1) are projecting an image, as illustrated in FIG. 19, if the remaining power of the first external device (200-1) falls below a preset value, the processor (140) can reduce the amount of projected light of the first external device (200-1). In addition, the processor (140) can increase the amount of projected light of the projector (100).

[0329] At this time, the degree to which the projection light quantity decreases may correspond to the residual power. For example, if the residual power of the first external device (200-1) is the first residual power, the projector (100) may reduce the projection light quantity of the first external device (200-1) to the first projection light quantity. In addition, if the residual power of the first external device (200-1) is the second residual power that is lower than the first residual power, the projector (100) may reduce the projection light quantity of the first external device (200-1) to the second projection light quantity that is lower than the first projection light quantity.

[0330] And, the degree to which the projection light quantity increases may correspond to the degree to which the projection light quantity decreases. For example, if the projection light quantity of the first external device (200-1) decreases to the first projection light quantity, the processor (140) may decrease the projection light quantity of the second external device (200-1) to the third projection light quantity. And, if the projection light quantity of the first external device (200-1) decreases to the second projection light quantity that is lower than the first projection light quantity, the projector (100) may increase the projection light quantity of the second external device (200-2) to the fourth projection light quantity that is higher than the third projection light quantity.

[0331] Meanwhile, if the remaining power of at least one device among at least one external device falls below a preset value, the processor (140) can swap the positions of a device in standby mode among the device groups and a device whose remaining power falls below the preset value.

[0332] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 20, while the projector (100), the first external device (200-1), and the second external device (200-2) are working together to project an image, the remaining power of the second external device (200-2) may fall below a preset value. At this time, the third external device (200-3) and the fourth external device (200-4) may be in a standby state. Specifically, the third external device (200-3) and the fourth external device (200-4) may be in a state where charging has been completed or charging is being performed at the charging station.

[0333] As illustrated in FIG. 21, the processor (140) can control the second external device (200-2) and the fourth external device (200-4) to move to their respective positions, and the fourth external device (200-4) to project an image in place of the second external device (200-2). Accordingly, the second external device (200-2) whose remaining power is less than a preset value can be charged with power at the charging station.

[0334] According to one or more embodiments, the preset event may be an event in which one or more of the illuminance values ​​sensed by each of the at least one operating devices falls below the preset value.

[0335] At this time, the processor (140) can increase the projection light amount of the projector (100) and at least one external device whose detected illuminance is less than a preset value.

[0336] At this time, the degree to which the projected light amount increases may correspond to the detected illuminance. For example, if the illuminance detected by the first external device (200-1) is a first illuminance that is less than a preset value, the processor (140) may increase the projected light amount of the first external device (200-1) to the first illuminance. In addition, if the illuminance detected by the first external device (200-1) is a second illuminance that is lower than the first illuminance, the processor (140) may increase the projected light amount of the first external device (200-1) to a second illuminance that is greater than the first illuminance.

[0337] Accordingly, the projector (100) according to the present disclosure can dynamically control the amount of projection light in an environment where the illuminance is different for each projector, thereby providing a uniform visual experience to the user.

[0338] Meanwhile, the preset event may be an event in which the user's location movement is detected.

[0339] According to one or more embodiments, when a movement of the user's position is detected, the projector (100) can identify a tracking device among the operating devices for following the user.

[0340] The processor (140) can detect the user's movement through the sensor of the sensor unit (159). That is, the processor (140) can detect the user's movement based on the sensing value of the sensor unit (159). When the processor (140) controls the projection unit (120) to project content, if the user's movement is detected, the processor (140) can select an external device having a tracking function and a projection function among at least one external device. The processor (140) can transmit a control signal to the selected external device to project the content onto the floor along the user's movement path while tracking the user's position.

[0341] That is, when the user's movement is detected through the sensor while the content is being projected, the processor (140) can transmit data to at least one external device having a tracking function and a projection function among the external devices so that the content is projected on the floor along the movement path of the user whose movement has been detected.

[0342] Specifically, the projector (100) can identify the device with the highest priority for the tracking function among the operating devices as the tracking device.

[0343] Alternatively, the projector (100) may identify the operating device closest to the user among the operating devices equipped with a tracking function as the tracking device. For example, if the user moves to the right, the operating device located to the user's right may be identified as the tracking device. Furthermore, if the user moves to the left, the operating device located to the user's left may be identified as the tracking device.

[0344] Once the tracking device is identified, the projector (100) can control the tracking device to follow the user. At this time, the projector (100) can control the tracking device to project at least a portion of the content being played on one side of the user while the tracking device is following the user.

[0345] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 22, a projector (100), a first external device (200-1), and a second external device (200-2) can work together to project an image. At this time, the processor (140) can detect a change in the position of the user (1).

[0346] As illustrated in FIG. 23, when a change in the position of the user (1) is detected, the processor (140) can control the second external device (200-2) that is closer to the direction of the user's position movement among the first external device (200-1) and the second external device (200-2) with the highest priority for the tracking function to follow the user. In addition, the processor (140) can control the second external device (200-2) to follow the user (1) and project an image onto the user's floor according to the user's (1) movement path. At this time, the image may be a preset image or an image projected by the second external device (200-2).

[0347] For example, if the content includes a live view image, the processor (140) can control the second external device (200-2) that follows the user to project the live view image onto the floor along the path the user moves.

[0348] Alternatively, the processor (140) may control the tracking device to output at least a portion of an audio signal included in the content toward the direction in which the user is located while the tracking device is following the user.

[0349] Alternatively, if the content includes a video signal and an audio signal and a change in the user's position is detected, the processor (140) may change the projection position and projection surface of at least one external device and the projection unit (120) to a projection position and projection surface corresponding to the changed user's position. In addition, the processor (140) may change the audio output position of at least one audio output device to an audio output position corresponding to the changed user's position. That is, the projection position and audio output position of the projected image may be determined by the channel of the audio signal and the user's position.

[0350] At this time, the processor (140) can identify an audio output location corresponding to the changed user location and move at least one audio output device to the identified audio output location.

[0351] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 24, the projector (100), the first external device (200-1), and the second external device (200-2) can project an image onto a first projection surface (1510) at a first projection position. At this time, the first projection surface (1510) may be a projection surface located in a direction viewed by the user. And, the first projection position may be a position for projecting an image onto the first projection surface (1510). And, the third external device (200-3) and the fourth external device (200-4) may output audio from a sound source position in a direction in which the user (1) is located. At this time, the third external device (200-3) may output an audio signal corresponding to an R channel, and the fourth external device (200-4) may output an audio signal corresponding to an L channel.

[0352] At this time, as illustrated in FIG. 25, if a change in the position of the user (1) is detected, the processor (140) can re-identify the projection position and audio output position corresponding to the changed position of the user (1). Accordingly, the processor (140) can control the projector (100), the first external device (200-1), and the second external device (200-2) to move to a second projection position and project an image from the second projection position to a second projection surface (1620). At this time, the second projection surface (1620) may be a projection surface located in the direction the user is looking at from the changed position of the user. In addition, the second projection position may be a projection position for projecting an image to the second projection surface (1620). And, the processor (140) can control the third external device (200-3) and the fourth external device (200-4) to output audio from the sound source location based on the changed location of the user (1). Specifically, the processor (140) can move the third external device (200-3) and the fourth external device (200-4) to the right and left of the user (1), respectively, and control the third external device (200-3) to output an audio signal of a channel corresponding to the right side of the user (1), and control the fourth external device (200-4) to output an audio signal of a channel corresponding to the left side of the user.

[0353] Alternatively, the preset event may be an event that changes the content playback environment. Specifically, the preset event may be an event that changes the lighting in the space where the content is played.

[0354] When the content playback environment changes, the processor (140) can re-identify the operating device, operating position, and operating action corresponding to the changed content playback environment.

[0355] And, the processor (140) can control the re-identified operating device to operate in conjunction based on the re-identified operating device, operating position, and operating operation.

[0356] For example, while one projector is projecting an image, if the illuminance of the space where the image is projected falls below a preset value, the processor (140) can identify two additional projectors in the device group, move the two identified projectors to the projection position, and control them to project the image.

[0357] FIG. 26 is a flowchart for explaining a method of controlling a projector according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0358] According to FIG. 26, when the projector (100) establishes communication with at least one external device, it can receive and store information on the status and performance of at least one external device (S2610). The projector (100) can also transmit its own information to at least one external device.

[0359] The projector (100) can identify the priorities of the projector and at least one external device based on the stored information (S2620). The method by which the projector (100) identifies priorities has been specifically described in other embodiments described above, so a redundant description will be omitted.

[0360] The projector (100) can transmit data corresponding to a position movement that enables the projector (100) to operate in conjunction with at least one external device when the projector is identified as the main device according to priority (S2630). That is, the projector (100) can generate a control signal that causes the projector (100) to move to a position that enables the projector (100) to operate in conjunction with the projector (100), and transmit the generated control signal to at least one external device.

[0361] The projector (100) may operate according to a control signal received from a main device when one of the external devices is identified as the main device. In this case, the method by which the main device controls the projector (100) may be the same as the method by which the projector (100) controls at least one external device in the above-described embodiments.

[0362] Accordingly, the projector (100) can provide various services, such as projecting content or outputting audio, in conjunction with at least one external device. Services provided by multiple devices in conjunction with each other have been specifically described in the various embodiments described above, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0363] The control method described in FIG. 26 may be performed by the projector (100) described in the various embodiments described above, or may be performed by an external device other than the projector. Alternatively, the control method may be performed by a device having a different configuration from that described in the embodiments described above.

[0364] Although various embodiments have been described above, each embodiment is not necessarily implemented individually, and may be implemented together in a single product by being combined in whole or in part with at least one other embodiment.

[0365] According to the various embodiments described above, users can enjoy various services, such as viewing content of various sizes using multiple electronic devices, enjoying optimized audio, and maintaining content viewing while on the go. Consequently, user satisfaction can be maximized.

[0366] Meanwhile, the terms "part" or "module" used in the present disclosure include units composed of hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A "part" or "module" may be an integrally composed component, a minimum unit performing one or more functions, or a portion thereof. For example, a module may be composed of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0367] Various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software including instructions stored on a machine-readable storage medium that can be read by a machine (e.g., a computer). The machine, which is a device capable of calling instructions stored from the storage medium and operating according to the called instructions, may include a projector (100) according to the disclosed embodiments. When the instructions are executed by a processor, the processor may directly or under the control of the processor perform a function corresponding to the instructions using other components. The instructions may include code generated or executed by a compiler or interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, "non-transitory" means that the storage medium does not contain signals and is tangible, but does not distinguish between data being stored semi-permanently or temporarily in the storage medium.

[0368] According to one or more embodiments, the methods according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or online through an application store (e.g., Play Store™). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0369] Each component (e.g., a module or a program) according to various embodiments may be composed of one or more entities, and some of the aforementioned sub-components may be omitted, or other sub-components may be further included in various embodiments. Alternatively or additionally, some components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single entity, which may perform the same or similar functions as those performed by each of the respective components prior to integration. Operations performed by a module, program, or other component according to various embodiments may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or at least some operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In the projector, communication interface; Projection section; memory; and Contains a processor, The above processor, When at least one external device is connected via the communication interface, the priorities of the projector and the at least one external device are identified based on information about the status and performance of the at least one external device, A projector that, when the projector is identified as a main device according to the above priorities, transmits data corresponding to position movement for a linkage operation with the projector to the at least one external device through the above communication interface.

2. In paragraph 1, The above processor, A projector, wherein, for at least one external device having a projection function among the above external devices, the projector moves to one side of the projector and transmits data corresponding to one integrated screen projection linked with the projector to the external device.

3. In paragraph 1, The above processor, Control the above projection unit to project content, A projector that transmits data corresponding to projection of additional content related to the content to an external device having a projection function among at least one of the external devices.

4. In paragraph 3, The above processor, If there are multiple external devices with the above projection function, A projector that transmits data corresponding to projection of at least a portion of the content to at least one of a plurality of external devices having the projection function in conjunction with the projector, and transmits data corresponding to projection of the additional content to the remaining devices among the plurality of external devices having the projection function.

5. In paragraph 1, The above processor, When playing content that includes audio and video signals, If at least one of the external devices includes an audio output device, for the external device including the audio output device, move to the sound source position of the audio signal and transmit data corresponding to the output of the audio signal, A projector, wherein at least one external device having a projection function among said at least one external device moves to one side of said projector and transmits data corresponding to the output of at least a portion of said video signal in conjunction with said projector.

6. In paragraph 1, Based on the information of the projector and the at least one external device, information identifying the priority by function is stored in the memory, The above processor, When playing content that includes audio and video signals, Based on the priority for the audio output function, identifying a device to output the audio signal among the projector and the at least one external device, A projector that identifies a device to output the video signal among the projector and the at least one external device based on a priority for the projection function.

7. In paragraph 1, further comprising at least one sensor; The above processor, Control the above projection unit to project content, A projector that, when the movement of a user is detected through the at least one sensor while the above content is being projected, transmits data to an external device having a tracking function and a projection function among the at least one external device so that the content is projected on the floor along the movement path of the user whose movement was detected.

8. In paragraph 2, The above processor, According to the transmitted data, when the external device moves to one side of the projector and the remaining power of the external device is less than a preset value during the integrated screen projection, data corresponding to a decrease in the light amount of the external device is transmitted to the external device, and the light amount of the projection unit is controlled to increase. A projector that transmits data corresponding to an increase in the light amount of the external device to the external device when the remaining power of the projector is less than the preset value, and controls the light amount of the projection unit to decrease.

9. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a light sensor for detecting light; The above processor, A projector that identifies the number of devices to be involved in projecting content based on the above illuminance and the above priority.

10. In paragraph 1, The above processor, A projector, wherein when at least one external device is connected via the communication interface, information about the status and performance of the at least one external device is stored in the memory.

11. In the method of controlling the projector, When at least one external device is connected, a step of identifying the priorities of the projector and the at least one external device based on information about the status and performance of the at least one external device; and A control method, comprising: a step of transmitting data corresponding to a position movement for a linkage operation with the projector to at least one external device when the projector is identified as a main device according to the above priorities; 12. In paragraph 11, The above control method is, A control method, comprising: a step of moving to one side of the projector and transmitting data corresponding to one integrated screen projection linked with the projector to the external device, for an external device having a projection function among the at least one external device; 13. In paragraph 11, The above control method is, A step of controlling the projection unit to project content; and A control method, comprising: a step of transmitting data corresponding to projection of additional content related to the content to an external device having a projection function among at least one of the external devices; 14. In paragraph 13, The above control method is, If there are multiple external devices with the above projection function, A control method comprising: a step of transmitting data corresponding to projection of at least a portion of the content by interlocking with the projector to at least one of the plurality of external devices having the projection function; a step of transmitting data corresponding to projection of the additional content to the remaining devices among the plurality of external devices having the projection function.

15. In paragraph 11, The above control method is, When playing content that includes audio and video signals, If at least one of the external devices includes an audio output device, a step of moving to a sound source position of the audio signal and transmitting data corresponding to the output of the audio signal for the external device including the audio output device; and A control method, comprising: a step of moving to one side of the projector and transmitting data corresponding to output of at least a portion of the video signal to an external device having a projection function among the at least one external device;

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