Electronic device and operating method thereof

Abstract

Disclosed is an electronic device comprising: a memory for storing at least one instruction; and at least one processor for executing the at least one instruction stored in the memory, wherein the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: receives a control signal from a control device; identify whether the control device is in a normal state or an abnormal state on the basis of a sensing signal obtained from the control device; perform an operation corresponding to the control signal when it is identified that the control device is in the normal state; and does not perform the operation corresponding to the control signal when it is identified that the control device is in the abnormal state.

Description

Electronic device and method of operation thereof

[0001] The disclosed various embodiments relate to electronic devices and methods of operating the same, and more particularly to electronic devices and methods of operating the same that operate in response to a state of a control device.

[0002] A user can control the operation of electronic devices such as video display devices, audio devices, and DVD players using a control device such as a remote control. When the user selects one of the multiple keys included in the control device, the control device generates a control signal corresponding to the selected key input and transmits it to the electronic device. The electronic device can then operate in response to the control signal received from the control device.

[0003] However, if the electronic device performs an operation according to the key input of the control device even when the control device is in an abnormal state, there is a possibility that the electronic device may operate in a manner that is not in accordance with the user's intention.

[0004] An electronic device according to an embodiment may include a memory storing at least one instruction, and at least one processor executing at least one instruction stored in the memory.

[0005] In an embodiment, at least one processor may receive a control signal from a control device by executing the at least one instruction.

[0006] In an embodiment, at least one processor can identify whether the control device is in a normal state or an abnormal state based on a sensing signal obtained from the control device by executing the at least one instruction.

[0007] In an embodiment, at least one processor may perform an operation corresponding to the control signal by executing the at least one instruction, if the control device identifies that the control device is in a normal state.

[0008] In an embodiment, at least one processor may not perform an operation corresponding to the control signal if the control device identifies that the control device is in an abnormal state by executing the at least one instruction.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an electronic device detecting a state of a control device according to an embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an electronic device and a control device transmitting and receiving signals through a network according to an embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3 is a drawing illustrating a control device according to an embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an electronic device outputting abnormal display information through a display according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 is an internal block diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an electronic device being controlled from an external terminal according to an embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 9 illustrates an external terminal outputting abnormal display information according to an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method in which an electronic device and a control device (200) operate according to an embodiment.

[0019] Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0021] A method of operating an electronic device according to an embodiment may include a step of receiving a control signal from a control device.

[0022] In an embodiment, a method of operating an electronic device may include a step of identifying whether the control device is in a normal state or an abnormal state based on a sensing signal obtained from the control device.

[0023] In an embodiment, a method of operating an electronic device may include a step of performing an operation corresponding to the control signal when the control device identifies that the control device is in a normal state.

[0024] In an embodiment, the method of operating an electronic device may not perform an operation corresponding to the control signal if the control device identifies that the control device is in an abnormal state.

[0025] A recording medium according to an embodiment may be a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program that can perform, by a computer, an operating method of an electronic device including a step of receiving a control signal from a control device.

[0026] A recording medium according to an embodiment may be a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program that can perform a method of operating an electronic device, including a step of identifying whether the control device is in a normal state or an abnormal state based on a sensing signal obtained from the control device.

[0027] A recording medium according to an embodiment may be a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program that can perform, by a computer, an operating method of an electronic device, including a step of performing an operation corresponding to the control signal when the control device is identified as being in a normal state.

[0028] A recording medium according to an embodiment may be a computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program that can perform, by a computer, an operating method of an electronic device, including a step of not performing an operation corresponding to the control signal when the control device is identified as being in an abnormal state.

[0029] In this disclosure, the expression “at least one of a, b or c” may refer to “a”, “b”, “c”, “a and b”, “a and c”, “b and c”, “all of a, b and c”, or variations thereof.

[0030] Below, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0031] The terms used in this disclosure are described as currently common terms, taking into account the functions mentioned herein. However, these terms may mean various other terms depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Therefore, the terms used in this disclosure should not be interpreted solely based on their names, but rather based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of this disclosure.

[0032] Additionally, the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure.

[0033] Throughout the specification, when a part is said to be "connected" to another part, this includes not only the cases where it is "directly connected" but also the cases where it is "electrically connected" with another element in between.

[0034] As used herein, and particularly in the claims, the terms "above" and "above" and similar referents may refer to both the singular and the plural. Furthermore, unless the order of steps in a method according to the present disclosure is explicitly specified, the steps described may be performed in any appropriate order. The present disclosure is not limited by the order in which the steps are described.

[0035] The appearances of phrases such as “in some embodiments” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0036] Some embodiments of the present disclosure may be represented by functional block configurations and various processing steps. Some or all of these functional blocks may be implemented by various hardware and / or software configurations that perform specific functions. For example, the functional blocks of the present disclosure may be implemented by one or more microprocessors or by circuit configurations for a given function. Furthermore, for example, the functional blocks of the present disclosure may be implemented in various programming or scripting languages. The functional blocks may be implemented by algorithms that execute on one or more processors. Furthermore, the present disclosure may employ conventional techniques for electronic configuration, signal processing, and / or data processing. Terms such as “mechanism,” “element,” “means,” and “configuration” may be used broadly and are not limited to mechanical and physical configurations.

[0037] Additionally, the connecting lines or connecting members between components depicted in the drawings are merely exemplary representations of functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections. In an actual device, connections between components may be represented by various functional connections, physical connections, or circuit connections that may be replaced or added.

[0038] Additionally, terms such as “part”, “module”, etc. described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented as hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0039] Additionally, the term “user” in the specification means a person who uses an electronic device, control device, or external terminal, and may include a consumer, evaluator, viewer, administrator, or installer.

[0040] The present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings below.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an electronic device (100) detecting the status of a control device (200) according to an embodiment.

[0042] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may be an electronic device capable of outputting content. In an embodiment, the content may be in various forms, such as video, audio, subtitles, other additional information, etc., such as still images or moving images.

[0043] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may be a video display device capable of outputting images or videos through a display, and / or an audio device capable of outputting audio. The electronic device (100) may be stationary or mobile.

[0044] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include at least one of a television, a desktop, a smartphone, a tablet personal computer, a game console, an audio device, a mobile phone, a video phone, an e-book reader, a laptop personal computer, a netbook computer, a digital camera, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a camcorder, a navigation device, a wearable device, a smart watch, a home network system, a security system, and a medical device.

[0045] When the electronic device (100) is a video display device, the electronic device (100) may be implemented as a flat display device, a curved display device having a screen with a curvature, or a flexible display device whose curvature can be adjusted. The output resolution of the electronic device (100) may have various resolutions, such as, for example, HD (High Definition), Full HD, Ultra HD, or a resolution clearer than Ultra HD.

[0046] In an embodiment, when the electronic device (100) is a television (TV), the electronic device (100) may include a digital TV equipped with an operating system (OS) and an Internet connection function.

[0047] The electronic device (100) can output various types of content provided by content providers.

[0048] A content provider may refer to a terrestrial broadcaster, cable broadcaster, satellite broadcaster, IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) service provider, OTT (Over the Top) service provider, or server operator that provides various types of content to consumers.

[0049] Content can take many forms, including video, including still images or moving images, audio, subtitles, and other additional information.

[0050] Content may include content for viewing, such as movies or dramas, content for listening, such as music, game content, and art content that introduces or guides works of art, such as famous paintings or sculptures.

[0051] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can receive and output various contents generated by a content provider through an external device. The external device can be implemented as a source device of various forms, such as a PC, a set-top box, a Blu-ray disc player, a mobile phone, a game console, a home theater, an audio player, a USB, etc.

[0052] An external device can be connected to the electronic device (100) via a wired or wireless communication network, such as HDMI, and provide various contents to the electronic device (100). The electronic device (100) can receive VOD (Video On Demand) contents provided by an IPTV service provider or an OTT service provider via a set-top box and output the same. The VOD service is a service that provides a user with desired video at a desired time through a communication network connection, and can include various types of contents provided by an OTT service provider or an IPTV service provider. The IPTV service provider or an OTT service provider can provide not only VOD contents but also real-time broadcast programs.

[0053] When an operating system is installed in an electronic device (100), the electronic device (100) can stream and output various types of VOD content created by an OTT service provider using the operating system installed therein in addition to real-time broadcasting programs.

[0054] The electronic device (100) can connect to the Internet and provide web surfing services, social networking services, etc. In addition, the electronic device (100) can function as a communication center that can check news, weather, email, etc. in real time.

[0055] The electronic device (100) can be wirelessly connected to an external device, such as a set-top box, through a wireless network that follows communication standards such as Bluetooth, WLAN (Wireless LAN) (Wi-Fi), Wibro (Wireless broadband), Wimax (World Interoperability for Microwave Access), CDMA, and WCDMA, and can also receive video signals from the external device.

[0056] The electronic device (100) may be connected to an external device via a wired cable to receive a video signal from the external device or transmit a video signal to the external device. The wired cable may include a port capable of transmitting a video signal and an audio signal simultaneously, such as a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), a Universal Serial Bus (USB), a Display Port (DP), or Thunderbolt™. Alternatively, the wired cable may include a port for transmitting a video signal and an audio signal separately.

[0057] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can be controlled by a control device (200).

[0058] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may be a device used to control the electronic device (100), such as a remote controller. A user can control various functions of the electronic device (100) using the control device (200).

[0059] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may include an input unit. The input unit may receive user input from a user to control the electronic device (100).

[0060] In an embodiment, the input unit included in the control device (200) may include a plurality of keys.

[0061] By selecting a specific key among a plurality of keys included in the control device (200), the user can perform various functions of the electronic device (100), such as turning the power on / off, changing the channel, adjusting the volume, selecting one of various broadcasts such as terrestrial broadcasting, cable broadcasting, satellite broadcasting, and Internet broadcasting, selecting an object such as a specific item or content on the screen, or performing environment settings, etc.

[0062] When a user selects a specific key among a plurality of keys provided in the control device (200), the control device (200) can obtain a key code command corresponding to the specific key selected by the user. The control device (200) can transmit a control signal including the key code command to the electronic device (100). The electronic device (100) can receive the control signal from the control device (200) and perform a specific function according to the key code command included in the control signal.

[0063] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) and the control device (200) can communicate. In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) and the control device (200) can communicate using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi signals, etc.

[0064] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may be equipped with a sensor. In an embodiment, the control device (200) may obtain a sensing signal through the sensor.

[0065] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may include a pressure sensor that detects pressure. In an embodiment, the pressure sensor provided in the control device (200) may detect pressure and output the detected pressure as an electrical signal.

[0066] For example, a user may unintentionally sit down on the control device (200), or the user may accidentally press the pressure sensor while entering a key located near the pressure sensor. In an embodiment, the pressure sensor provided in the control device (200) may measure pressure and obtain the measurement result as a pressure sensing signal.

[0067] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may include a humidity sensor that detects humidity. In an embodiment, the humidity sensor provided in the control device (200) may detect humidity and output it as an electrical signal. For example, if a baby or a pet bites or sucks the control device (200), or if water or other liquids are spilled on the control device (200), the humidity sensor may detect the humidity of the liquid, such as saliva or water, of the baby or pet. The humidity sensor may measure humidity and obtain the measurement result as a humidity sensing signal.

[0068] In an embodiment, the control device (200) can transmit a sensing signal to the electronic device (100).

[0069] In an embodiment, the control device (200) can transmit at least one of a pressure sensing signal acquired by the pressure sensor and a humidity sensing signal acquired by the humidity sensor to the electronic device (100).

[0070] However, this is just one example, and the control device (200) may further include at least one of a temperature sensor, an illuminance sensor, a position sensor, a proximity sensor, an acceleration sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, and a gyroscope sensor in addition to a pressure sensor or a humidity sensor.

[0071] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may transmit a sensing signal to the electronic device (100) periodically or at random times.

[0072] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may transmit a sensing signal to the electronic device (100) whenever a specific event occurs.

[0073] In an embodiment, a specific event may be, for example, a case where a sensing signal value falls outside a reference range. The control device (200) may determine whether the sensing signal value acquired by the sensor falls outside the reference range, identify the case where the sensing signal value falls outside the reference range as an event occurring, and transmit the sensing signal value to the electronic device (100) only in this case. In an embodiment, the control signal may include a key code command corresponding to a specific key selected by the user.

[0074] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may transmit the sensing signal to the electronic device (100) by including it in the control signal. Alternatively, the control device (200) may transmit the sensing signal to the electronic device (100) separately from the control signal.

[0075] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can receive a sensing signal from the control device (200).

[0076] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can identify whether the control device (200) is in a normal state based on the sensing signal. In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can identify whether the sensing signal is normal by using whether the value of the sensing signal is within a reference range, and can identify whether the control device (200) is in a normal state or an abnormal state therefrom.

[0077] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may determine that the control device (200) is in a normal state if the value of the sensing signal is within a reference range. In an embodiment, the reference range may vary depending on whether the sensing signal is a pressure sensing signal or a humidity sensing signal.

[0078] In an embodiment, if the electronic device (100) determines that the control device (200) is in a normal state, the electronic device (100) can operate according to a control signal received from the control device (200). That is, the electronic device (100) can perform an operation according to a key code command included in the control signal.

[0079] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may determine that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state if the value of the sensing signal is not included in the reference range.

[0080] Alternatively, in an embodiment, if the control device (200) directly determines whether the sensing signal value is outside the reference range and transmits the sensing signal value to the electronic device (100) only when the sensing signal value is outside the reference range, the electronic device (100) may determine that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state when it receives the sensing signal value from the control device (200).

[0081] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may output abnormal display information when the control device (200) is determined to be in an abnormal state.

[0082] In an embodiment, the abnormal display information may be information indicating that the state of the control device (200) is abnormal rather than normal. In an embodiment, the abnormal display information may include information explaining that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state. In an embodiment, the abnormal display information may include information asking whether to operate according to a control signal from the control device (200).

[0083] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may output abnormal display information via an audio signal or a video signal. For example, the electronic device (100) may output abnormal display information via an interface screen. In addition, or separately, the electronic device (100) may also output abnormal display information as an audio signal via a speaker.

[0084] FIG. 1 illustrates, as an example, a case where a humidity sensor provided in a control device (200) detects humidity. The control device (200) can transmit a humidity sensing signal to an electronic device (100). The electronic device (100) determines whether the humidity sensing signal received from the control device (200) is within a reference range, and if it is determined that the signal is not within the reference range, the control device (200) can determine that the signal is in an abnormal state. The electronic device (100) can output abnormal display information to a portion of the screen.

[0085] As illustrated in FIG. 1, if the control device (200) is determined to be in an abnormal state while the electronic device (100) is outputting content, the electronic device (100) can output abnormal display information in an area (101) that does not interfere with the content currently being output. A user can easily identify that there is a problem with the control device (200) by seeing the abnormal display information output on the screen.

[0086] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may not perform an operation corresponding to a control signal if the control device (200) is determined to be in an abnormal state.

[0087] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may discard a control signal received from the control device (200) if the control device (200) is determined to be in an abnormal state. Ignoring the control signal may mean not operating according to a key code command included in the control signal.

[0088] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may ignore a control signal received from the control device (200) after the control device (200) determines that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state.

[0089] In an embodiment, when the electronic device (100) determines that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state and outputs abnormal display information, the electronic device (100) may ignore only the control signal received while the abnormal display information is being output. After a predetermined time has elapsed since the electronic device (100) outputs the abnormal display information, the electronic device (100) may terminate the output of the abnormal display information. After the output of the abnormal display information is terminated, the electronic device (100) may again operate according to the control signal received from the control device (200).

[0090] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may continue to ignore control signals received from the control device (200) from the time the control device (200) is determined to be in an abnormal state until the control device (200) is determined to be in a normal state.

[0091] For example, after outputting abnormal display information, the electronic device (100) may continue to ignore a control signal received from the control device (200) until it receives a sensing signal having a sensing signal value within a reference range from the control device (200).

[0092] For example, when a user removes moisture from the control device (200) or releases the pressed control device (200), the value of the sensing signal acquired by the humidity sensor or pressure sensor provided in the control device (200) may fall within the reference range again. When the sensing signal received from the control device (200) falls within the reference range, the electronic device (100) determines that the control device (200) is in a normal state, and from the point in time when the control device (200) is determined to be in a normal state, the electronic device (100) may operate again according to the control signal received from the control device (200).

[0093] In an embodiment, when the electronic device (100) determines that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state and outputs abnormal display information, the electronic device (100) may continue to ignore the control signal received from the control device (200) until the power of the electronic device (100) is turned off and then turned on again, or until a control signal is received from an external terminal.

[0094] In an embodiment, if the signal value of the sensing signal is not within the reference range, the electronic device (100) may transmit a signal indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state to an external terminal separate from the control device (200).

[0095] In an embodiment, when the external terminal receives a signal from the electronic device (100) indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state, the control device (200) can output information that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state through the external terminal.

[0096] In an embodiment, an external terminal may execute an app that controls the operation of the electronic device (100). A user may control the electronic device (100) using the app that controls the operation of the electronic device (100) executed on the external terminal.

[0097] In an embodiment, when the electronic device (100) determines that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state, it may operate differently depending on the type of sensing signal when operating in response to a control signal received from the control device (200).

[0098] For example, if the electronic device (100) determines that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state because the humidity sensing signal value is not within the reference range, the electronic device (100) may output abnormal display information for a predetermined period of time and, regardless of whether the abnormal display information is output, may not continue to operate in response to a control signal received from the control device (200). The electronic device (100) may ignore a control signal including all key code commands input through the control device (200).

[0099] In this case, the electronic device (100) transmits a signal to the external terminal indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state, and can operate only in response to user input via an app that controls the operation of the electronic device (100) executed on the external terminal. The user can terminate the output of abnormal display information output to the electronic device (100) or the external terminal using the external terminal. The user can control the operation of the electronic device (100) using the external terminal.

[0100] For example, if the electronic device (100) determines that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state because the pressure sensing signal value is not within the reference range, the electronic device (100) outputs abnormal display information for a predetermined period of time, and may operate differently depending on the type of control signal received from the control device (200).

[0101] For example, the electronic device (100) may ignore only control signals including continuous key inputs among the control signals received from the control device (200). Continuous key inputs may include long-pressed key inputs, i.e., when the same key is pressed for a certain period of time or longer. The electronic device (100) may operate according to key inputs in response to control signals including non-continuous key inputs among the control signals received from the control device (200).

[0102] In an embodiment, the abnormal display information may include information indicating which sensor is problematic. For example, if the electronic device (100) determines that the pressure sensing signal value is not within a reference range, the electronic device (100) may generate and output abnormal display information including information indicating that pressure has been detected to the control device (200).

[0103] The user can use the abnormal display information output from the electronic device (100) to know that there is a problem with the pressure sensor of the control device (200).

[0104] In an embodiment, the abnormal display information may include information for receiving a user's selection as to whether to operate according to a control signal from the control device (200). For example, if the electronic device (100) determines that the pressure sensing signal value is not within a reference range, the electronic device (100) may generate and output abnormal display information including information asking whether to change the setting value along with information that pressure has been detected by the control device (200). Changing the setting value may mean that the electronic device (100) operates according to the control signal from the control device (200).

[0105] The user can select whether to change the setting value using the key provided in the control device (200), thereby selecting whether to cause the electronic device (100) to operate based on control according to the control device (200).

[0106] In an embodiment, if the electronic device (100) determines that the humidity sensing signal value is not within the reference range, the electronic device (100) may output abnormal display information that only includes information that humidity has been detected in the control device (200) for a predetermined period of time. If the humidity of the control device (200) is high, there is a high possibility that the circuit included in the control device (200) will break down due to the humidity, so the electronic device (100) may not include information requesting operation of the control device (200) in the abnormal display information to prevent the user from operating the control device (200). In this case, the user may control the operation of the electronic device (100) by executing an app that controls the operation of the electronic device (100) using an external terminal. However, this is only one embodiment, and the abnormal display information may include various forms of information.

[0107] In this way, according to the embodiment, the electronic device (100) can determine whether the state of the control device (200) is normal or abnormal based on the sensing signal received from the control device (200).

[0108] According to an embodiment, when the control device (200) is in an abnormal state, the electronic device (100) can quickly inform the user of the state of the control device (200) by outputting abnormal display information indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state.

[0109] According to an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may not malfunction according to a control signal from the control device (200) in an abnormal state by ignoring the control signal from the control device (200) when the control device (200) is in an abnormal state.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can transmit a signal indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state to an external terminal, thereby allowing a user to control the operation of the electronic device (100) using the external terminal.

[0111] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an electronic device (100) and a control device (200) transmitting and receiving signals through a network (250) according to an embodiment.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 2, the control device (200) and the electronic device (100) can be connected using a network (250).

[0113] In an embodiment, the network (250) may include one of Bluetooth, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy, not shown), NFC (near field communication, not shown), IR (Infrared) communication, RF (Radio Frequency) communication, Wi-Fi communication, and wired Ethernet.

[0114] In an embodiment, the network (250) may be a Bluetooth communication network or a BLE communication network. Compared to the Bluetooth standard, BLE has a relatively short duty cycle of several milliseconds (ms) and also consumes less power. In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) and the control device (200) can perform low-power communication using the BLE communication network.

[0115] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module that performs BLE communication. In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may transmit a BLE signal to the surroundings using the BLE communication module. The electronic device (100) may transmit the BLE signal to the surroundings constantly, periodically, at random time intervals, or at preset time points.

[0116] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may include a BLE communication module or chip for performing BLE communication with the electronic device (100). In an embodiment, the control device (200) may scan the BLE signal transmitted by the electronic device (310) continuously, periodically, at random time intervals, or at preset time points. The control device (200) may perform pairing with the electronic device (100) by scanning the BLE signal transmitted by the electronic device (100).

[0117] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may transmit a BLE signal to the electronic device (100) after performing pairing with the electronic device (100).

[0118] In an embodiment, when a control device (200) receives a key input from a user, the control device (200) may generate a control signal including a key code command corresponding to the input key as a BLE signal. In an embodiment, the control device (200) may also transmit the BLE signal to the electronic device (100) using a network (250).

[0119] In an embodiment, the control device (200) can obtain a sensing signal. In an embodiment, the control device (200) can generate the sensing signal as a BLE signal and transmit the sensing signal to the electronic device (100) via a BLE communication network.

[0120] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may periodically obtain a sensing signal through the sensor, and transmit the sensing signal to the electronic device (100) each time the sensing signal is obtained.

[0121] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may not transmit the sensing signal to the electronic device (100) every time it obtains the sensing signal, but may transmit the sensing signal to the electronic device (100) only when the sensing signal value is outside the reference range.

[0122] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may periodically transmit a sensing signal to the electronic device (100), and at the same time, when the sensing signal value is outside the reference range, the control device (200) may transmit the sensing signal to the electronic device (100) regardless of the period.

[0123] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can transmit a sensing signal and a control signal together to the electronic device (100) via a BLE communication network.

[0124] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may transmit control signals and sensing signals separately to the electronic device (100) via a BLE communication network.

[0125] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can receive a BLE signal from the control device (200) using a BLE communication module.

[0126] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can receive a control signal and / or a sensing signal from the control device (200) as a BLE signal.

[0127] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may receive a control signal and operate according to a key code command included in the control signal.

[0128] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can receive a sensing signal and determine whether the control device (200) is in a normal state from the sensing signal.

[0129] However, this is an example, and the network (250) may communicate with the electronic device (100) using a communication method that performs Bluetooth, IR communication, RF (Radio Frequency) communication using an RF communication module, or Wi-Fi communication instead of BLE communication.

[0130] For example, in an embodiment, the network (250) may include IR (Infrared) communication. IR communication may be a communication method that transmits information using infrared. When the control device (200) receives a key input from a user, the control device (200) may generate a control signal including a key code command corresponding to the input key. In an embodiment, the control device (200) may generate the control signal including the key code command as an IR signal. For example, the control device (200) may generate an infrared signal having a unique frequency assigned to the key code command of the input key. In addition, the control device (200) may generate a sensing signal as an IR signal. The control device (200) may generate the control signal and the sensing signal as IR signals and transmit them to the electronic device (100) using the network (250).

[0131] Figure 3 is a drawing illustrating a control device (200) according to an embodiment.

[0132] The control device (200) of FIG. 3 may be an example of the control device (200) described in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 3, the control device (200) may include a plurality of keys. The keys may take various forms, such as physical buttons that receive a user's push operation, jog & shuttle, touch buttons displayed on a touchpad that detects touch, etc. Each of the plurality of keys included in the control device (200) may be used to control various functions of the electronic device (100). The user may control various functions of the electronic device (100) by using the plurality of keys provided in the control device (200).

[0134] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may further include a wheel for receiving a user's rotation operation, a keyboard, a dome switch, a microphone for voice recognition, a motion detection sensor for sensing motion, etc. In this case, the control device (200) may receive an input from a user using the wheel, keyboard, dome switch, microphone, motion detection sensor, etc. and identify a key corresponding to the input.

[0135] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may include a sensor.

[0136] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may also be referred to as a pressure sensor or a pressure detector. A pressure sensor is a device used to measure the pressure of a gas or liquid, and can generate an electrical signal as a function of the applied pressure. In an embodiment, the pressure sensor may be provided in the control device (200) and may detect a force or weight applied to the entire surface or portion of the control device (200).

[0137] In an embodiment, the pressure sensor may be positioned at a point where it is easy to detect pressure when pressure is applied to the control device (200). The point where the pressure sensor is easy to detect pressure may vary depending on the shape, thickness, size, etc. of the control device (200). For example, the pressure sensor may be positioned at the exact center of the front or back of the control device (200), or may be positioned at a peripheral portion rather than the center. The pressure sensor may be positioned at a point where multiple keys included in the control device (200) are crowded together and thus protrude a lot. Alternatively, when the thickness of the control device (200) differs depending on the position, the pressure sensor may be positioned at a part where it is easiest to detect pressure even when the same pressure is applied, for example, at a point where the thickness of the control device (200) is the thickest.

[0138] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may include a volume control key (201) and a channel control key (203). A user may control the content output volume of the electronic device (100) by operating the volume control key (201), and may control the channel of the screen output on the electronic device (100) by operating the channel control key (203).

[0139] If the volume or channel suddenly changes while the user is watching content using an electronic device (100), the user will feel uncomfortable while watching the content.

[0140] In an embodiment, the pressure sensor may be located near a key that, if incorrectly selected, may cause significant inconvenience to the user while viewing content, such as a volume control key (201) or a channel control key (203).

[0141] For example, the pressure sensor may be located at a first point (210) between the volume control key (201) and the channel control key (203), as shown in FIG. 3.

[0142] The pressure sensor is located at the first point (210), so that when the user incorrectly presses the volume control key (201) or the channel control key (203), the pressure sensor can easily detect the pressure caused by the user's malfunction. In addition, when the control device (200) is caught in a sofa or a door gap, or is pressed by a person or a heavy object, and force or weight is applied to the volume control key (201) or the channel control key (203), the pressure sensor located near the volume control key (201) or the channel control key (203) also detects the pressure, so that the control device (200) can easily detect when it is exposed to an abnormal environment.

[0143] However, this is just one example, and the position of the pressure sensor may be varied.

[0144] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may include a humidity sensor.

[0145] A humidity sensor can be a sensor that electrically detects humidity or liquid by utilizing the property of organic polymers or ceramics changing in resistance value, permittivity, etc. due to water vapor.

[0146] In an embodiment, the humidity sensor may be located at a location where humidity can be easily detected, a location most susceptible to humidity, or a location vulnerable to humidity. For example, the humidity sensor may be located at a corner or edge that is easily bitten or sucked by a baby or pet. Alternatively, the humidity sensor may be located near a location sensitive to humidity, such as the power supply or charging section of the control device (200).

[0147] FIG. 3 illustrates, as an example, a case where a humidity sensor is located at a second point (220) near a corner of a control device (200). The humidity sensor is located at the second point (220), so that it can easily detect cases where the control device (200) is exposed to an abnormal environment, such as when a baby or a pet bites the control device (200).

[0148] However, this is an example, and the location of the humidity sensor can be changed in various ways.

[0149] In an embodiment, the number of pressure sensors or humidity sensors may be one or more. For example, if the control device (200) has a square shape as illustrated in FIG. 3, humidity sensors may be positioned near each of the four corners of the square.

[0150] In this way, according to an embodiment, the control device (200) is equipped with at least one of a pressure sensor and a humidity sensor, so as to sense pressure or humidity applied to the control device (200) in an unintended environment.

[0151] Figure 4 is a block diagram of an electronic device (100) according to an embodiment.

[0152] The electronic device (100) of FIG. 4 may be an example of the electronic device (100) described in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (100) may include a memory (120) and a processor (110).

[0154] In an embodiment, at least one instruction may be stored in the memory (120). The memory (120) may store at least one program executed by the processor (110). In addition, the memory (120) may store data input to or output from the electronic device (100).

[0155] The memory (120) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk.

[0156] In an embodiment, the memory (120) may store one or more instructions for identifying whether a signal value of a sensing signal received from the control device (200) is within a reference range.

[0157] In an embodiment, the memory (120) may store one or more instructions for outputting abnormal display information indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state when the signal value of the sensing signal is identified as not being within a reference range.

[0158] In an embodiment, the memory (120) may store a reference range for the sensing signal value. The reference range for the sensing signal value may vary depending on the type of sensor. For example, the memory (120) may store a first reference range that serves as a reference for determining whether the humidity sensing signal value is within the normal range, and a second reference range that serves as a reference for determining whether the pressure sensing signal value is within the normal range.

[0159] In an embodiment, the memory (120) may store one or more instructions for not operating according to a control signal received from the control device (200) if the humidity sensing signal value is identified as not being within the first reference range.

[0160] In an embodiment, the memory (120) may store one or more instructions for not operating according to a long-pressed key input received from the control device when the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is identified as not being within the second reference range.

[0161] In an embodiment, the memory (120) may store one or more instructions for generating and outputting abnormal display information when the control device (200) is determined to be in an abnormal state.

[0162] In an embodiment, the memory (120) may store one or more instructions for generating and outputting abnormal display information as an interface screen or generating and outputting it as an audio signal.

[0163] In an embodiment, the interface screen may include a menu for selecting whether to perform an action based on a key input from the control device (200).

[0164] In an embodiment, the memory (120) may store one or more instructions for performing an operation according to a key code command included in a control signal received from the control device (200) when an operation according to a key input is selected from a menu included in an interface screen.

[0165] In an embodiment, the memory (120) may store one or more instructions for transmitting a signal indicating that the control device is in an abnormal state to an external terminal separate from the control device when the signal value of the sensing signal is identified as not being within a reference range.

[0166] In an embodiment, the memory (120) may store one or more instructions for operating according to a control signal from an external terminal after the control device transmits a signal indicating that the external terminal is in an abnormal state.

[0167] A processor (110) according to an embodiment controls the overall operation of an electronic device (100). The processor (110) according to an embodiment can control signal flow between internal components of the electronic device (100) and perform a function of processing data.

[0168] In an embodiment, the processor (110) may control the electronic device (100) to function by executing one or more instructions stored in the memory (120).

[0169] In an embodiment, the processor (110) may include single core, dual core, triple core, quad core, and multiples thereof.

[0170] In an embodiment, the processor (110) may be one or more. For example, the processor (110) may include multiple processors. In this case, the processor (110) may be implemented as a main processor and a sub processor.

[0171] Additionally, the processor (110) may include at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a VPU (Video Processing Unit). Alternatively, in an embodiment, the processor (110) may be implemented in the form of a SoC (System On Chip) that integrates at least one of a CPU, a GPU, and a VPU. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the processor (110) may further include an NPU (Neural Processing Unit).

[0172] In an embodiment, at least one processor (110) may receive a sensing signal from a control device (200).

[0173] In an embodiment, at least one processor (110) may receive a control signal and a sensing signal including a key code command as a BLE signal from a control device (200).

[0174] In an embodiment, at least one processor (110) can identify whether a signal value of a sensing signal received from a control device (200) is within a reference range.

[0175] In an embodiment, at least one processor (110) can read a reference range for comparison with a sensing signal value from a memory (120) and identify whether the signal value of the sensing signal is within the reference range.

[0176] In an embodiment, at least one processor (110) can read a first reference range from a memory (120) and identify whether a humidity sensing signal value is within the first reference range.

[0177] In an embodiment, at least one processor (110) can read a second reference range from the memory (120) and identify whether the pressure sensing signal value is within the second reference range.

[0178] In an embodiment, if at least one processor (110) identifies that both the humidity sensing signal value and the pressure sensing signal value are within a reference range, the control device (200) may determine that the control device (200) is in a normal state and control the operation of the electronic device (100) according to a control signal from the control device (200).

[0179] In an embodiment, at least one processor (110) may determine that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state if at least one of the humidity sensing signal value and the pressure sensing signal value is not within a reference range.

[0180] In an embodiment, at least one processor (110) may generate abnormal display information and output it when the control device (200) is determined to be in an abnormal state.

[0181] In an embodiment, at least one processor (110) may generate and output abnormal display information as an interface screen or generate and output it as an audio signal.

[0182] In an embodiment, if at least one processor (110) identifies that the humidity sensing signal value is not within the first reference range, it may generate and output abnormal display information that only includes information that humidity has been detected.

[0183] In an embodiment, if at least one processor (110) identifies that the humidity sensing signal value is not within the first reference range, it may ignore the control signal received from the control device (200) and not operate according to the control signal.

[0184] In an embodiment, when at least one processor (110) identifies that the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is not within the second reference range, it may generate and output abnormal display information including information asking whether to change the setting value according to a key input from the control device (200) along with information that pressure has been detected.

[0185] In an embodiment, the interface screen may include a menu for selecting whether to perform an action based on a key input from the control device (200).

[0186] In an embodiment, when at least one processor (110) is selected to perform an operation according to a key input from a menu included in an interface screen, it may operate according to a key code command included in a control signal received from the control device (200).

[0187] In an embodiment, if at least one processor (110) is selected not to perform an operation according to a key input from a menu included in an interface screen, it may not operate according to a key code command included in a control signal received from the control device (200).

[0188] In an embodiment, if at least one processor (110) identifies that the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is not within the second reference range, when receiving a long-pressed key input from the control device (200), it may not operate according to the key input.

[0189] Users may input keys by long pressing when pressing a channel control key or a volume control key among the keys provided on the control device (200). However, if the pressure sensing signal value is within an abnormal range and the control device (200) is in an abnormal state, the long press key input is likely to be an error input due to an external environment unrelated to the user's intention.

[0190] In an embodiment, when at least one processor (110) identifies that the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is not within the second reference range, when receiving a long-pressed key input from the control device (200), it may not operate according to the key input, thereby preventing the channel or volume, etc. from being continuously changed.

[0191] In an embodiment, even if the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is not within the second reference range, if a key is input only once from the control device (200), at least one processor (110) can determine that the key input is a key according to the user's intention and can operate according to the key input.

[0192] However, this is an example embodiment, and the processor (110) may ignore control signals according to all key inputs and may not operate if the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is not within the second reference range.

[0193] In an embodiment, if at least one processor (110) identifies that a signal value of a sensing signal is not within a reference range, it may transmit a signal indicating that the control device is in an abnormal state to an external terminal separate from the control device (200).

[0194] In an embodiment, at least one processor (110) may operate according to a control signal from an external terminal after the control device (200) transmits a signal indicating that the external terminal is in an abnormal state.

[0195] Figure 5 is a block diagram of an electronic device (100) according to an embodiment.

[0196] The electronic device (100) of FIG. 5 may be an example of the electronic device (100) of FIG. 4.

[0197] Referring to FIG. 5, the electronic device (100) may further include a communication unit (130) and an output unit (140) in addition to a memory (120) and a processor (110).

[0198] The communication unit (130) according to the embodiment can connect the electronic device (100) to an external device, an external user terminal, an external server, etc., by using a wired or wireless communication network under the control of the processor (110). The electronic device (100) can download a program or application required by the electronic device (100) from an external device, server, etc., or perform web browsing through the communication unit (130).

[0199] In an embodiment, the communication unit (130) may include a BLE communication module. The communication unit (130) may transmit a BLE signal at predetermined intervals using the BLE communication module.

[0200] In an embodiment, after the electronic device (100) and the control device (200) are paired, the BLE communication module included in the communication unit (130) can receive a control signal including a key code command from the control device (200) as a BLE signal.

[0201] In an embodiment, the communication unit (130) can receive a sensing signal from the control device (200). In an embodiment, the BLE communication module included in the communication unit (130) can receive a sensing signal from the control device (200) as a BLE signal. In an embodiment, the BLE communication module included in the communication unit (130) can receive a sensing signal in the form of a BLE signal together with or separately from a control signal in the form of a BLE signal.

[0202] In an embodiment, the communication unit (130) may receive a sensing signal from the control device (200) continuously, periodically, at random time intervals, at preset time points, or whenever a specific event occurs.

[0203] In an embodiment, a particular event may include a case where a humidity sensing signal value or a pressure sensing signal value is not within a reference range.

[0204] In an embodiment, the output unit (140) can output content. In an embodiment, the output unit (140) can include at least one of a display and a speaker.

[0205] In an embodiment, the output unit (140) may include a speaker. In an embodiment, the speaker may output audio content.

[0206] In an embodiment, if the processor (110) identifies that the signal value of the sensing signal received from the control device (200) is not within the reference range, it may generate abnormal display information as an audio signal.

[0207] For example, the abnormal indication information may include a constant alarm sound or warning sound. Alternatively, the abnormal indication information may include a voice signal that utters something like, "Moisture has been detected in the remote control" or "Pressure has been detected in the remote control."

[0208] Alternatively, the abnormal display information may further include a voice signal asking whether to operate according to a control signal from the control device (200). For example, if the processor (110) receives a control signal from the control device (200) after the time point at which the control device (200) determines that the signal value of the sensing signal is not within a reference range and thus is in an abnormal state, an audio signal may be output through the speaker that prompts the user to select whether to operate according to the control signal. For example, the processor (110) may output a voice signal through the speaker asking the user whether to operate according to a key code command included in the control signal, such as, "Abnormal key input has been detected. If you wish to operate according to the control signal, press the Yes button. If you do not wish to operate, press the No button."

[0209] In an embodiment, the display can output video content. In an embodiment, the display can display various types of content provided by content providers. The display can display broadcast programs received in real time or content streamed or downloaded from a server.

[0210] When the display is implemented as a touch screen, the display can be used as an input device, such as a user interface, in addition to an output device. For example, the display may include at least one of a liquid crystal display, a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display, an organic light-emitting diode, a flexible display, a 3D display, and an electrophoretic display. In addition, depending on the implementation form of the display, two or more displays may be included.

[0211] In an embodiment, if the processor (110) determines that the signal value of the sensing signal received from the control device (200) is not within the reference range, the processor (110) may determine that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state and generate abnormal display information as video content. In an embodiment, the processor (110) may output the abnormal display information to an interface screen through a display. The abnormal display information output through the display will be described below with reference to FIG. 6.

[0212] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating an electronic device (100) outputting abnormal display information through a display according to an embodiment.

[0213] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can output abnormal display information to an interface screen through the display (600).

[0214] In an embodiment, the abnormal display information may include information that the control device (200) has been detected as being in an abnormal state. In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may display an interface screen including information that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state in the form of a text window on a portion of the display (600). The size, output location, transparency, and / or shape of the interface screen including the abnormal display information may be variously modified.

[0215] In an embodiment, an interface screen including abnormal display information may include information indicating which sensor among the sensors provided in the control device (200) detected an abnormal signal.

[0216] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the first interface screen (620) including abnormal display information may include information indicating that a humidity-related problem has occurred in the control device (200), such as “Humidity has been detected in the remote control.”

[0217] When a user is watching content (610) through a display (600), and a first interface screen (620) containing information indicating that humidity has been detected is displayed on the remote control, the control device (200) can easily identify that a problem has occurred with respect to humidity.

[0218] In an embodiment, an interface screen including abnormal display information may further include information asking whether to operate in response to a control signal from the control device (200). For example, when the processor (110) determines that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state and receives a control signal from the control device (200), the processor (110) may cause the interface screen including the abnormal display information to include information allowing the user to select whether to operate in response to the control signal.

[0219] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, a second interface screen (630) including abnormal display information may include text asking whether to operate according to a key code command included in a control signal, such as "Abnormal key input has been detected. Would you like to change the setting value?" In addition, the second interface screen (630) including abnormal display information may further include menus such as "YES" and "NO."

[0220] When a user is watching content (610) and a second interface screen (620) including abnormal display information is output, the user can select whether to operate according to a control signal using a key provided in the control device (200). The user can use the control device (200) to position the cursor on the “YES” menu and select a confirmation key included in the control device (200). When the electronic device (100) receives a user input for selecting the “YES” menu from the control device (200), the electronic device (100) can then control the operation of the electronic device (100) according to the control signal received from the control device (200).

[0221] Alternatively, the user may use the control device (200) to position the cursor on the "NO" menu and then select the confirmation key. When the electronic device (100) receives a user input selecting the "NO" menu, the electronic device (100) may then prevent the electronic device (100) from operating according to a control signal received from the control device (200).

[0222] Alternatively, the user may not know where the control device (200) is located. In this case, the user cannot operate the control device (200), and therefore cannot select the "YES" or "NO" menu included in the abnormal display information. In an embodiment, if neither the "YES" menu nor the "NO" menu is selected until a predetermined time has elapsed after the abnormal display information is output, the electronic device (100) may determine that the control signal from the control device (200) is a control signal due to a malfunction, and may not change the setting value.

[0223] In an embodiment, an interface screen including abnormal display information may include information indicating the time at which the second interface screen (630) is output. For example, the second interface screen (630) may include information such as '5 Sec'. A user can view the time information included in the second interface screen (630) and predict the time at which the output of the second interface screen (630) will end.

[0224] Figure 7 is an internal block diagram of an electronic device (100) according to an embodiment.

[0225] The electronic device (100) of FIG. 7 may be an example of the electronic device (100) of FIG. 4 or FIG. 5. Descriptions that overlap with the above descriptions are omitted.

[0226] Referring to FIG. 7, the electronic device (100) may further include, in addition to the processor (110), memory (120), communication unit (130), and display (600), a tuner unit (710), a detection unit (730), an input / output unit (740), a video processing unit (750), an audio processing unit (760), an audio output unit (770), and a user interface (780).

[0227] The tuner unit (710) can select and tune only the frequency of the channel to be received by the electronic device (100) from among many radio wave components through amplification, mixing, resonance, etc. of broadcast content received via wire or wireless. The content received through the tuner unit (710) is decoded and separated into audio, video, and / or additional information. The separated audio, video, and / or additional information can be stored in the memory (790) under the control of the processor (110).

[0228] The communication unit (130) illustrated in FIG. 7 may be an example of the communication unit (130) of FIG. 5.

[0229] In an embodiment, the communication unit (130) can connect the electronic device (100) to a peripheral device, an external device, a server, a control device (200), etc., under the control of the processor (110). The communication unit (130) can include at least one of a wireless LAN (721), Bluetooth (722), and a wired Ethernet (724) in accordance with the performance and structure of the electronic device (100).

[0230] The communication unit (130) can receive a control signal through a control device (200), such as a remote control, under the control of the processor (110). The control signal can be implemented as a Bluetooth type, a BLE type, an RF signal type, a Wi-Fi type, etc. In addition to Bluetooth (722), the communication unit (130) can further include other short-range communication (e.g., NFC (near field communication, not shown).

[0231] In an embodiment, the Bluetooth (722) may include a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module. The BLE communication module may transmit and receive signals to and from the control device (200) and the like via the BLE communication method. In an embodiment, the communication unit (130) may receive a sensing signal in the form of a BLE signal from the control device (200) using Bluetooth (722).

[0232] The detection unit (730) detects the user's voice, the user's image, or the user's interaction, and may include a microphone (731), a camera unit (732), and a light receiving unit (733). The microphone (731) can receive the user's uttered voice, convert the received voice into an electric signal, and output it to the processor (110). The camera unit (732) includes a sensor (not shown) and a lens (not shown), and can capture an image formed on the screen. The light receiving unit (733) can receive an optical signal (including a control signal).

[0233] The optical receiver (733) can receive an optical signal corresponding to a user input (e.g., touch, press, touch gesture, voice, or motion) from a control device (200), such as a remote control or a mobile phone. The received optical signal can include a key code command corresponding to a key input of the control device (200). The processor (110) can extract the key code command from the optical signal received by the optical receiver (733) and control the electronic device (100) to operate accordingly.

[0234] The input / output unit (740) can receive video (e.g., a moving image signal or a still image signal), audio (e.g., a voice signal or a music signal), and additional information such as metadata from a device external to the electronic device (100) under the control of the processor (110). The metadata can include HDR information about the content, a description or content title about the content, a content storage location, and the like. The input / output unit (740) can include one of an HDMI port (High-Definition Multimedia Interface port, 741), a component jack (component jack, 742), a PC port (PC port, 743), and a USB port (USB port, 744). The input / output unit (740) can include a combination of an HDMI port (741), a component jack (742), a PC port (743), and a USB port (744).

[0235] The video processing unit (750) processes image data to be displayed by the display (640) and can perform various image processing operations such as decoding, rendering, scaling, noise filtering, frame rate conversion, and resolution conversion for the image data.

[0236] The display (600) can display content received from a broadcasting station, an external server, or an external storage medium on the screen. The content may include media signals, such as video signals, images, text signals, etc. In addition, the display (600) can display video signals or images received through the HDMI port (741) on the screen.

[0237] The audio processing unit (760) performs processing on audio data. The audio processing unit (760) can perform various processing such as decoding, amplification, and noise filtering on audio data.

[0238] The audio output unit (770) can output audio included in content received through the tuner unit (710) under the control of the processor (110), audio input through the communication unit (130) or input / output unit (740), and audio stored in the memory (720). The audio output unit (770) can include at least one of a speaker (771), a headphone output terminal (772), or an S / PDIF (Sony / Philips Digital Interface: output terminal) (773).

[0239] In an embodiment, the audio output unit (770) may output abnormality indication information indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state as an audio signal such as a voice signal or an alarm signal.

[0240] The user interface (780) can receive user input for controlling the electronic device (100). The user interface (780) can include various types of user input devices, including, but not limited to, a touch panel for detecting a user's touch, a button for receiving a user's push operation, a wheel for receiving a user's rotation operation, a keyboard, a dome switch, a microphone for voice recognition, a motion detection sensor for sensing motion, etc. The user interface (780) can also receive a control signal received from the control device (200).

[0241] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating an electronic device (100) being controlled from an external terminal (800) according to an embodiment.

[0242] Referring to FIG. 8, in an embodiment, an electronic device (100) may be connected to a control device (200) and an external terminal (800) through a wired or wireless communication network.

[0243] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may receive a sensing signal from the control device (200). In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may determine that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state if the signal value of the sensing signal is not within a reference range.

[0244] In an embodiment, if the electronic device (100) determines that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state, it can transmit a signal indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state to an external terminal (800) separate from the control device (200).

[0245] In an embodiment, the external terminal (800) can be implemented as various types of electronic devices capable of communicating with the electronic device (100) and receiving user input.

[0246] In an embodiment, the control device (700) may be an electronic device capable of executing an app that controls the operation of the electronic device (100). For example, the control device (700) may be a smartphone. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the external terminal (800) may be at least one of a wearable device, a smart watch, an AI speaker, a desktop, a tablet personal computer, a laptop personal computer, a netbook computer, and a home network system.

[0247] In an embodiment, when the external terminal (800) receives a signal from the electronic device (100) indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state, the external terminal (800) may output abnormal display information indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state through a display or speaker provided in the external terminal (800).

[0248] In an embodiment, when the external terminal (800) receives a signal from the electronic device (100) indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state, the external terminal (800) can execute an app that controls the operation of the electronic device (100) in response thereto.

[0249] In an embodiment, the external terminal (800) can operate in conjunction with the electronic device (100).

[0250] In an embodiment, a user can terminate abnormal display information output to an electronic device (100) by using an external terminal (800), or terminate abnormal display information output to an external terminal (800).

[0251] In an embodiment, a user can control the operation of the electronic device (100) by using an app that controls the operation of the electronic device (100) running on an external terminal (800).

[0252] FIG. 9 illustrates an external terminal (800) outputting abnormal display information according to an embodiment.

[0253] In an embodiment, if the electronic device (100) determines that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state based on a sensing signal received from the control device (200), the electronic device (100) may transmit a signal indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state to an external terminal (800) separate from the control device (200).

[0254] In an embodiment, when the external terminal (800) receives a signal from the electronic device (100) indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state, the external terminal (800) may output abnormal display information indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state.

[0255] In an embodiment, the external terminal (800) may output abnormal display information in the form of a pop-up screen. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the external terminal (800) may output a voice guiding the abnormal display information as an audio signal.

[0256] In an embodiment, the abnormal display information output by the external terminal (800) may or may not be identical to the abnormal display information output by the electronic device (100). For example, the abnormal display information output by the external terminal (800) may have simpler and more concise text than the abnormal display information output by the electronic device (100), but is not limited thereto.

[0257] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of abnormal display information output by an external terminal (800). In an embodiment, the external terminal (800) may output the abnormal display information to an interface screen. In an embodiment, the abnormal display information may include information indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state.

[0258] In an embodiment, the external terminal (800) may display an interface screen indicating that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state in the form of a text window on a portion of the display area of ​​the external terminal (800).

[0259] In an embodiment, an interface screen including abnormal display information may include information specifically indicating what problem has occurred in the control device (200). For example, an interface screen including abnormal display information may include information indicating that a problem related to humidity or pressure has occurred in the control device (200), such as “humidity detected in the remote control” or “pressure detected in the remote control.”

[0260] Drawing reference numeral 910 of FIG. 9 illustrates, as an example, that abnormal display information includes text such as 'abnormal key input detected'.

[0261] However, FIG. 9 is only one example, and the size, output location, and / or shape of the interface screen including abnormal display information may be modified in various ways.

[0262] The user can identify that there is a problem with the control device (200) through the interface screen output through the display of the external terminal (800).

[0263] In an embodiment, an interface screen including abnormal display information may further include information asking whether to operate in response to a control signal from the control device (200). For example, as illustrated in drawing reference numeral 910, an interface screen including abnormal display information may include text asking whether to operate in accordance with a key code command included in a control signal, such as "Do you want to change the setting value?", along with text indicating that an abnormal key input has been detected.

[0264] The user can select whether to operate according to a control signal from the control device (200) by selecting the “Yes” or “No” menu on the interface screen containing abnormal display information using an external terminal (800).

[0265] When a user input for selecting the “Yes” menu is received, the external terminal (800) can transmit a control signal corresponding to the user input to the electronic device (100), thereby allowing the electronic device (100) to operate according to the control signal received from the control device (200).

[0266] Alternatively, if the user selects the “No” menu, the external terminal (800) may transmit a control signal corresponding to the user input to the electronic device (100), so that the electronic device (100) does not operate according to the control signal received from the control device (200) and maintains the existing setting value.

[0267] In an embodiment, the external terminal (800) may determine that the user has decided not to use the control device (200) to control the electronic device (100) any longer if the user chooses not to change the setting value.

[0268] In an embodiment, the external terminal (800) may execute an app that controls the operation of the electronic device (100) if the user chooses not to change the setting value. In this case, the external terminal (800) may output an interface screen including a four-way key or a selection button, as shown in the drawing reference numeral 930, thereby allowing the user to control the electronic device (100) using the external terminal (800).

[0269] Drawing reference numeral 920 of FIG. 9 illustrates, as an example, abnormal display information including text such as 'remote control abnormal state detected'.

[0270] In an embodiment, an interface screen including abnormal display information may further include information asking whether to control the electronic device (100). For example, as illustrated in drawing reference numeral 920, an interface screen including abnormal display information may include text asking whether to control the electronic device (100), such as "Do you want to control the TV?", along with text indicating that the remote control has detected an abnormal state.

[0271] The user can select whether to control the electronic device (100) with the external terminal (800) by selecting the “Yes” or “No” menu on the interface screen containing abnormal display information using the external terminal (800).

[0272] In an embodiment, the external terminal (800) may not control the electronic device (100) if the user selects the "No" menu. In this case, the external terminal (800) may terminate the output of abnormal display information. The electronic device (100) may receive a signal from the external terminal (800) indicating that the user has not selected to control the electronic device (100) with the external terminal (800), and may resume operation according to a control signal from the control device (200).

[0273] In an embodiment, when the user selects the “Yes” menu, the external terminal (800) may execute the electronic device (100) control app to output an interface screen including a four-way key or a selection button, as shown by reference numeral 930.

[0274] In an embodiment, a user can easily control an electronic device (100) by using an electronic device (100) control app running on an external terminal (800).

[0275] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method in which an electronic device (100) and a control device (200) operate according to an embodiment.

[0276] Referring to FIG. 10, in an embodiment, the control device (200) can obtain a sensing signal using a sensor (step 1010).

[0277] In an embodiment, the control device (200) can obtain a sensing signal through the sensor periodically or at random time intervals.

[0278] In an embodiment, the control device (200) can receive a key input from a user (step 1020).

[0279] In an embodiment, the control device (200) can transmit a sensing signal and a control signal to the electronic device (100) (step 1030).

[0280] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may transmit the sensing signal and the control signal separately, or may transmit them together.

[0281] In an embodiment, the control device (200) may transmit the sensing signal to the electronic device (100) each time it acquires the sensing signal, or transmit the sensing signal to the electronic device (100) at regular intervals after acquiring the sensing signal. Alternatively, the control device (200) may transmit the sensing signal to the electronic device (100) together with the control signal when a control signal is received from a user after acquiring the sensing signal.

[0282] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can receive a sensing signal and a control signal from the control device (200).

[0283] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can determine whether the signal value of the sensing signal is within a reference range (step 1040).

[0284] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can compare the signal value of the sensing signal with a reference range to determine whether the signal value of the sensing signal is within the reference range.

[0285] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can determine that the control device (200) is in a normal state when the signal value of the sensing signal is within the existing range.

[0286] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may operate according to a control signal if it is determined that the signal value of the sensing signal is within a conventional range (step 1050).

[0287] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can determine that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state if the signal value of the sensing signal is not within the existing range.

[0288] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may not perform an operation corresponding to a control signal if the signal value of the sensing signal is not within a reference range (step 1060).

[0289] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of an electronic device (100) according to an embodiment.

[0290] Referring to FIG. 11, in an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can receive a humidity sensing signal and a control signal from the control device (200) (step 1110).

[0291] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can determine whether the signal value of the humidity sensing signal is within a reference range (step 1120).

[0292] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can determine that the control device (200) is in a normal state when the signal value of the humidity sensing signal is within a reference range.

[0293] Fig. 11 assumes that only a humidity sensor is included in the control device (200), but if the control device (200) also includes a pressure sensor, the control device (200) can determine that the control device (200) is in a normal state when the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is also within the reference range.

[0294] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may operate according to a control signal when the signal value of the humidity sensing signal is within a reference range (step 1130). In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may operate in response to a key code command included in the control signal.

[0295] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can determine that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state when the signal value of the humidity sensing signal is not within the reference range.

[0296] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may output abnormal display information when the signal value of the humidity sensing signal is not within the reference range (step 1140).

[0297] Additionally, the electronic device (100) may ignore the control signal (step 1150). In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may ignore the control signal by not operating according to the key code command included in the control signal.

[0298] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of an electronic device (100) according to an embodiment.

[0299] Referring to FIG. 12, in an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can receive a pressure sensing signal and a control signal from the control device (200) (step 1210).

[0300] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can determine whether the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is within a reference range (step 1220).

[0301] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can determine that the control device (200) is in a normal state when the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is within a reference range.

[0302] FIG. 12 assumes that only a pressure sensor is included in the control device (200), but if the control device (200) also includes a humidity sensor, the control device (200) can determine that the control device (200) is in a normal state when the signal value of the humidity sensing signal is also within the reference range, that is, when the signal values ​​of all sensing signals are within the normal range.

[0303] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may operate according to a control signal when the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is within a reference range (step 1230). In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may operate in response to a key code command included in the control signal.

[0304] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can determine that the control device (200) is in an abnormal state when the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is not within the reference range.

[0305] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may output abnormal display information when the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is not within the reference range (step 1240).

[0306] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may operate differently depending on the type of control signal when the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is not within the reference range.

[0307] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) can determine whether the control signal is a continuous key input (step 1250).

[0308] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may operate according to a control signal when the control signal is not a continuous key input, i.e., when the control signal is a single key input (step 1230).

[0309] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may ignore the control signal if the control signal is a continuous key input (step 1260).

[0310] In an embodiment, the electronic device (100) may ignore the control signal by not operating according to the key code command included in the control signal.

[0311] The method and device for operating an electronic device according to some embodiments may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules executed by a computer. Computer-readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer, and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. Furthermore, computer-readable media may include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically includes computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave, or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media.

[0312] In addition, the electronic device and the operating method thereof according to the embodiment of the present disclosure described above may be implemented as a computer program product including a computer-readable recording medium / storage medium having recorded thereon a program for implementing an operating method of the electronic device, the method including a step of identifying whether the control device is in an abnormal state based on a sensing signal acquired from the control device, and a step of outputting abnormality display information indicating that the control device is in an abnormal state when the control device is identified as being in an abnormal state.

[0313] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0314] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product 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 may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (100), A memory (120) storing at least one instruction; and At least one processor (110) for executing at least one instruction stored in the memory, The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction, Receive a control signal from the control device, Based on the sensing signal obtained from the above control device, identify whether the control device is in a normal or abnormal state, If the above control device is identified as being in a normal state, the operation corresponding to the above control signal is performed, An electronic device that does not perform an operation corresponding to the control signal when the control device identifies that the control device is in an abnormal state.

2. An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, if the at least one processor identifies that the control device is in an abnormal state, the electronic device outputs abnormality display information indicating that the control device is in an abnormal state.

3. An electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensing signal includes at least one of a pressure sensing signal and a humidity sensing signal.

4. In any one of clauses 1 to 3, at least one processor Identify whether the signal value of the above sensing signal is within the reference range, An electronic device that identifies the control device as being in an abnormal state when it identifies that the signal value of the sensing signal is not within a reference range.

5. An electronic device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein if the at least one processor identifies that the signal value of the pressure sensing signal is not within a reference range, the electronic device does not operate according to a long-pressed key input received from the control device.

6. In any one of clauses 2 to 5, a display (600); and Further comprising an audio output section (770), An electronic device, wherein the at least one processor, when identifying that the signal value of the sensing signal is not within a reference range, performs at least one of outputting the abnormal display information as an interface screen through the display, and outputting it as an audio signal through the audio output unit.

7. In any one of paragraphs 2 to 6, The above abnormal display information includes information requesting a user selection on whether or not to perform an operation according to a control signal from the control device, An electronic device, wherein said at least one processor is selected to perform an operation according to said control signal, and operates according to a key code command included in a control signal received from said control device.

8. In any one of clauses 1 to 7, at least one processor An electronic device that, when it is determined that the signal value of the sensing signal is not within a reference range, transmits a signal indicating that the control device is in an abnormal state to an external terminal separate from the control device.

9. In the 8th paragraph, at least one processor An electronic device that operates according to a control signal from the external terminal after the control device transmits a signal indicating that the control device is in an abnormal state to the external terminal.

10. In any one of clauses 1 to 9, a communication unit (130) is further included, An electronic device, wherein said at least one processor receives a control signal including a key code command and the sensing signal as a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) signal from the control device through the communication unit.

11. In the method of operating an electronic device, A step of receiving a control signal from a control device; A step of identifying whether the control device is in a normal or abnormal state based on a sensing signal obtained from the control device; and A step of performing an operation corresponding to the control signal when the control device is identified as being in a normal state; and An operating method of an electronic device, comprising a step of not performing an operation corresponding to the control signal when the control device identifies that the control device is in an abnormal state.

12. A method of operating an electronic device, further comprising the step of outputting abnormality display information indicating that the control device is in an abnormal state when the control device is identified as being in an abnormal state in the 11th paragraph.

13. A method of operating an electronic device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the sensing signal includes at least one of a pressure sensing signal and a humidity sensing signal.

14. In any one of clauses 11 to 13, the step of identifying whether the control device is in a normal state or an abnormal state is A step of identifying whether the signal value of the sensing signal is within a reference range; and An operating method of an electronic device, comprising a step of identifying that the control device is in an abnormal state when the signal value of the sensing signal is identified as not being within a reference range.

15. A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program capable of performing the method of any one of claims 11 to 14 by a computer.

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