Projection device and operation method thereof

Abstract

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a projection device comprises: a projection unit including a first lens having a first focal length and a second lens having a second focal length longer than the first focal length, wherein the projection unit is configured to project image content on a projection lens which is one of the first lens or the second lens; a lens driving unit changing the projection lens on which the image content is projected; a memory storing one or more instructions; and at least one processor executing the one or more instructions. The at least one processor may execute the one or more instructions to: identify the position on which the image content is to be projected; determine, on the basis of the position on which the image content is to be projected, whether to move the projection device and whether to change the projection lens; and control the lens driving unit to change the projection lens while moving the projection device.

Description

Projection device and method of operation thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a projection device for projecting image content and an operating method thereof.

[0002] A projection device is a device that projects images onto a screen or space. Projection devices may include projectors, devices that provide virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), or mixed reality (MR).

[0003] Projection devices are utilized in a variety of fields. For example, they can be used for lectures or presentations in classrooms or conference rooms, or to project movies onto screens in movie theaters. Devices that provide VR, AR, or MR can provide a movie-viewing experience by displaying images on a screen (display) positioned near the user's eyes when worn.

[0004] Recently, portable projection devices, including dual-lens projectors, capable of both long-distance and close-up projection, have been developed. These devices allow for the projection of a variety of video content appropriate to the projection environment.

[0005] A movable projection device according to one embodiment may include a first lens having a first focal length and a second lens having a second focal length longer than the first focal length, and may include a projection unit that projects image content through a projection lens, which is one of the first lens and the second lens.

[0006] A projection device according to one embodiment may include a lens driving unit that changes the projection lens so that the image content is projected through the projection lens.

[0007] A projection device according to one embodiment may include a memory storing one or more instructions, and at least one processor executing the one or more instructions.

[0008] At least one processor according to one embodiment can identify a location to project the image content by executing the one or more instructions.

[0009] At least one processor according to one embodiment can identify, by executing the one or more instructions, whether to move the projection device and whether to change the projection lens based on a location where the image content is to be projected.

[0010] At least one processor according to one embodiment can control the lens drive to change the projection lens from one of the first lens or the second lens to the other of the first lens or the second lens in a moving state of the projection device based on the identification of moving the projection device and changing the projection lens by executing the one or more instructions.

[0011] A method of operating a movable projection device according to one embodiment may include a step of identifying a location at which image content is to be projected.

[0012] A method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment may include a step of identifying whether to move the projection device and whether to change a projection lens based on a location where the image content is to be projected.

[0013] A method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment may include the step of moving the projection device and, based on identification of changing the projection lens, changing the projection lens from one of a first lens having a first focal length or a second lens having a second focal length longer than the first focal length to the other of the first lens or the second lens in a moving state of the projection device.

[0014] A method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment may include a step of projecting the image content.

[0015] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a projection device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the operation of a lens driving unit according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for projecting image content by moving the projection device or changing the projection lens according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an example in which movement of a projection device and change of a projection lens must be performed according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an example in which movement of a projection device and change of a projection lens must be performed according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an operation of a projection device according to one embodiment to set a projection lens based on surrounding environment information.

[0023] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing an operation of a projection device according to one embodiment to project image content.

[0024] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an operation of a projection device according to one embodiment to project image content.

[0025] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing an example of a projection device according to one embodiment setting a projection lens based on user information.

[0027] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing an example of a projection device according to one embodiment setting a projection lens based on user information.

[0028] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing an example of a projection device according to one embodiment setting a projection lens based on user information.

[0029] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing an example of a projection device according to one embodiment setting a projection lens based on the position of the projection device.

[0030] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an operation of a projection device according to one embodiment of the present invention to move the projection device or change the projection lens.

[0031] Fig. 16 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a projection device according to one embodiment.

[0032] The terms used in this specification will be briefly explained, and the present invention will be described in detail.

[0033] The terms used in this invention have been selected from widely used, current terms, taking into account the functions of the invention. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant, in which case their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in this invention should not be defined simply as names, but rather based on their inherent meanings and the overall content of the invention.

[0034] When a part of the specification is said to "include" a component, this does not exclude other components, but rather implies the inclusion of other components, unless otherwise specifically stated. Furthermore, terms such as "part," "module," etc., used throughout the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0035] Below, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. However, the present invention can be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description have been omitted to clearly explain the present invention, and similar parts have been designated with similar reference numerals throughout the specification.

[0036] In the embodiments of this specification, the term "user" means a person who controls a system, function or operation, and may include a developer, administrator or installer.

[0037] Additionally, in the embodiments of the present specification, 'image' or 'picture' may represent a still image, a moving image composed of a plurality of consecutive still images (or frames), or a video.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a projection device according to one embodiment.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 1, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can project an image onto a screen. The screen onto which the image is projected can be configured in various forms. When the projection device (100) according to one embodiment is a projector, the screen may refer to a physical space onto which the image is projected. For example, the screen may include a wall, floor, ceiling, or a screen made of fabric. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0040] In the case where the projection device (100) according to one embodiment is a device that provides VR, AR, or MR, the screen may refer to a display included in the projection device (100). For example, the device that provides VR, AR, or MR may be implemented in the form of a glasses-type wearable device that includes a head-mounted display (HMD) that can be mounted on the head, and may include a display. The display may be a transparent display or an opaque display. The device that provides VR, AR, or MR may output (display) image content to the display.

[0041] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, an example is illustrated and described in which the projection device (100) is a projector, but the same can be applied even when the projection device (100) is a device that provides VR, AR, or MR.

[0042] A projection device (100) according to one embodiment may include a projection unit including a first lens having a first focal length and a second lens having a second focal length longer than the first focal length. For example, the first lens may include a short focal length lens or an ultra-short focal length lens, and the second lens may include a long focal length lens.

[0043] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the first lens is assumed to be a short focal length lens or an ultra-short focal length lens, and the second lens is assumed to be a long focal length lens.

[0044] A projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify a location where image content is to be projected, a size and shape of an area to be projected, etc., and can project image content by using a first lens or a second lens as a projection lens based on the location where image content is to be projected, the size and shape of an area to be projected, etc.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) may project image content on a screen or space that is far away from the projection device (100) (farther away than a preset distance), using a second lens. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, when projecting second image content (20) on a wall (10) that is far away from the projection device (100), the projection device (100) may project the second image content (20) using a second lens.

[0046] According to one embodiment, when the projection device (100) projects image content onto a screen or space that is close to the projection device (100) (less than a preset distance), the projection device (100) may project the image content using the first lens. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, when the first image content (30) is projected onto a floor that is close to the projection device (100), the projection device (100) may project the first image content (30) using the first lens.

[0047] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can change the projection lens from the second lens to the first lens when it is necessary to project image content onto a screen or space that is far away using a second lens and then project the image content onto a screen or space that is close by.

[0048] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) projects image content onto a nearby screen or space using a first lens, and when it is necessary to project image content onto a distant screen or space, the projection lens can be changed from the first lens to the second lens.

[0049] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can change a projection lens using a lens driving unit. This will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 2. The projection device (100) takes a certain amount of time to change the projection lens from a first lens to a second lens or from the second lens to the first lens. A user of the projection device (100) must experience the inconvenience of having to wait for the time required for the lens changing operation, and the time required for the lens changing operation may interfere with viewing of video content.

[0050] In addition, the projection device (100) according to one embodiment may be movable. The projection device (100) may include a driving unit and may be movable through the driving unit. The movement of the projection device (100) may include not only a driving movement in which the position of the projection device (100) is changed by the projection device (100) moving, but also a rotational movement in which the projection device (100) is rotated to change the projection direction at the same position. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0051] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can save time required for changing lenses by changing projection lenses while the projection device (100) is moving, when movement of the projection device (100) and change of projection lenses must be performed.

[0052] Referring to the drawings below, operations of a projection device (100) according to one embodiment identifying a projection position of image content, and, based on the identified projection position, moving the projection device or changing the projection lens to project image content when movement of the projection device or change of the projection lens is to be performed will be described in detail.

[0053] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the operation of a lens driving unit according to one embodiment.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 2, a lens driving unit according to one embodiment may include a sliding structure (230). A first lens (210) and a second lens (220) may be mounted on one side of the sliding structure (230). The first lens (210) may include a short-focus lens or an ultra-short-focus lens, and the second lens (220) may include a long-focus lens. For example, the lens driving unit may move the sliding structure (230) so that the first lens (210) or the second lens (220) aligns with the center of the optical system (240). The optical system (240) may include optical components used by the projection device (100) to project image content.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the lens driving unit may include a motor or a rail, and may move a sliding structure (230) using the motor or the rail. In some embodiments, the lens driving unit may include a rack and pinion structure. The rack and pinion structure is a structure that converts rotational motion into linear motion and may include a rack gear and a pinion gear. The rack gear is a long, flat gear-shaped rod that can perform linear motion, and the pinion gear is a small circular gear that can perform rotational motion. When the pinion gear rotates, the rack gear meshed with the pinion gear moves, so that the rotational motion can be converted into linear motion. The first lens (210) and the second lens (220) according to one embodiment are connected to the rack gear and can move as the rack gear moves. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 2, the sliding structure (230) can move (or slide) in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction. For example, when the central axes of the second lens (220) and the optical system (240) are aligned, and the projection lens needs to be changed from the second lens (220) to the first lens (210), the sliding structure (230) can be moved (or slided) in the second direction (e.g., upward) to control the first lens (210) to align with the central axis of the optical system (240). When the lens drive unit includes a rack and pinion structure, the rack gear can move in the first direction and the second direction. For example, when the central axes of the second lens (220) and the optical system (240) are aligned, and the projection lens needs to be changed from the second lens (220) to the first lens (210), the lens driving unit can control the first lens (210) to be aligned with the central axis of the optical system (240) by moving the rack gear in the second direction (e.g., upward). Accordingly, the projection device (100) can project image content through the first lens (210).

[0057] On the other hand, when the projection lens needs to be changed from the first lens (210) to the second lens (220) while the central axes of the first lens (210) and the optical system (240) are aligned, the sliding structure (230) can be moved (or slid) in a first direction (for example, downward) to control the second lens (220) to align with the central axis of the optical system (240). When the lens drive unit includes a rack and pinion structure and the projection lens needs to be changed from the first lens (210) to the second lens (220) while the central axes of the first lens (210) and the optical system (240) are aligned, the lens drive unit can control the second lens (220) to align with the central axis of the optical system (240) by moving the rack gear in a first direction (for example, downward). Accordingly, the projection device (100) can project image content through the second lens (220).

[0058] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for projecting image content by moving the projection device or changing the projection lens according to one embodiment.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 3, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify a projection position of image content (S310).

[0060] For example, the projection device (100) can obtain information about the surrounding environment of the projection device (100) and determine a location to project image content based on the information about the surrounding environment. The projection device (100) can obtain the information about the surrounding environment based on information sensed using a sensor unit. The information about the surrounding environment can include at least one of the size, location, and type of a screen located around the projection device (100), the type, size, and location of an object located around the projection device (100), and movement information of the object. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. In addition, the projection device (100) can determine a location to project image content based on information about the image content to be projected.

[0061] For example, if the image content to be projected is a media image (e.g., a movie, etc.), the projection device (100) can identify whether a screen having a size greater than a preset value exists around the projection device (100) in order to project the media image. If a screen having a size greater than a preset value is identified around the projection device (100), the projection device (100) can determine the location of the screen as a location to project the movie.

[0062] In addition, if the image content to be projected is an image providing a message or information, the projection device (100) can determine the floor or wall around the projection device (100) as the location to project the image content.

[0063] In addition, the projection device (100) may preferentially determine a location capable of projection using the currently set projection lens among candidate projection locations where image content can be projected, as the projection location. At this time, the projection device (100) may be set to determine a location that minimizes projection lens changes as the projection location based on user input. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0064] In addition, the projection device (100) can determine a location to project image content based on user input such as a user voice command or a user motion (gesture). For example, if the projection device (100) receives a user voice command such as "project on the living room wall," it can determine the living room wall as a location to project image content. In some embodiments, if the projection device (100) recognizes a user gesture of pointing to the floor with a finger, it can determine the floor area pointed by the user's finger as a location to project image content.

[0065] However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify a location to project image content in various ways.

[0066] A projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify whether to change the projection lens (S320).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) can identify whether to change the projection lens based on the currently set projection lens information and the projection lens identified in step 310 (S310) to project image content at the identified projection position. For example, if the currently set projection lens is a first lens (short-focus lens or ultra-short-focus lens) and the identified projection position is a preset distance or more away from the projection device (100), the projection device (100) can identify that a change of the projection lens should be performed because a second lens (long-focus lens) is identified to project image content at the corresponding position. The projection device (100) can identify that a change of the projection lens must be performed because the first lens is identified to project image content at the location when the currently set projection lens is the second lens and the identified projection location is close to the projection device (100).

[0068] In addition, the projection device (100) uses the first lens to project first image content (e.g., welcome message video, video including emotional expression, video providing information such as door opening, window opening, gas leak, video providing weather, etc.) that provides a message or information on the floor of a living room or an entrance, and then, based on a user input, when second image content (e.g., media content, augmented reality background video, etc.) needs to be projected on a wall or the like, the second lens is identified to project the second image content, and thus it can be identified that a change of the projection lens needs to be performed.

[0069] In addition, the projection device (100) can identify that a change of projection lens must be performed when the first image content needs to be projected onto the floor while the second image content is being projected onto a wall or the like using the second lens, since the first lens is used to project the first image content.

[0070] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can identify whether to move the projection device (S330, S360).

[0071] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) may identify whether to move the projection device (100) to project image content at the projection location identified in step 310 (S310). For example, the projection device (100) may require a translational movement to change the location of the projection device (100) to project image content at the projection location, or a rotational movement to change the projection direction at the same location.

[0072] According to one embodiment, when the projection device (100) changes the projection lens and moves the projection device (100), the projection lens can be changed while the projection device (100) is moving (S340).

[0073] For example, the projection device (100) can change the projection lens from the first lens to the second lens, or from the second lens to the first lens, while moving.

[0074] As described in FIG. 2, the projection lens change operation is performed by mechanical driving of the lens drive unit, and it takes approximately 4 seconds to change the lens. Accordingly, the user may experience the inconvenience of having to wait while performing the lens change operation. Therefore, if the lens change operation is performed while the projection device (100) is moving, the waiting time required for the lens change operation can be saved.

[0075] If the projection device (100) according to one embodiment is projecting image content, the playback of the image content can be paused and projection can be stopped during the change of the projection lens and movement of the projection device.

[0076] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can, when the video content being played is an advertisement content, continue to play the advertisement content without pausing the playback even when the projection lens is changed or the projection device is moved, and can only stop the projection.

[0077] In a case where a projection device (100) according to one embodiment includes a cover or the like that can open and close the projection unit, the cover can be closed during a change of projection lens and movement of the projection device to control the image content from being projected onto the screen.

[0078] Additionally, the projection device (100) according to one embodiment can notify the user of a change in the projection lens and movement of the projection device through an LED module, an audio output module, etc. included in the projection device (100).

[0079] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can change the projection lens from a first lens to a second lens or from a second lens to a first lens when a change in the projection lens of the projection device (100) must be performed but movement of the projection device must not be performed (S380).

[0080] If the projection device (100) according to one embodiment is projecting image content, the playback of the image content can be paused and projection can be stopped while the projection lens is being changed.

[0081] Alternatively, the projection device (100) according to one embodiment may, when the video content being played is an advertisement content, continue to play the advertisement content without pausing the playback even while changing the projection lens, and only stop the projection.

[0082] In a case where a projection device (100) according to one embodiment includes a cover or the like that can open and close the projection unit, the cover can be closed during a change of the projection lens to control the image content from being projected onto the screen.

[0083] Additionally, the projection device (100) according to one embodiment can notify the user that the projection lens is being changed through an LED module, an audio output module, etc. included in the projection device (100).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) may move the projection device (100) when a change in the projection lens of the projection device (100) should not be performed but movement of the projection device should be performed (S370).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) can be moved in a driving motion or rotational motion by a driving unit.

[0086] If the projection device (100) according to one embodiment is projecting image content, the playback of the image content can be paused and projection can be stopped while the projection device is moving.

[0087] Alternatively, the projection device (100) according to one embodiment, if the video content being played is an advertisement content, can continue to play the advertisement content without pausing playback even while the projection device is moving, and can only stop projection.

[0088] In one embodiment, when a projection device (100) includes a cover or the like that can open and close the projection unit, the cover can be closed while the projection device is moving so that image content is not projected onto the screen.

[0089] Additionally, the projection device (100) according to one embodiment can notify the user that the projection device is moving through an LED module, an audio output module, etc. included in the projection device (100).

[0090] A projection device (100) according to one embodiment can project image content based on a moved position or a changed projection lens (S350).

[0091] Meanwhile, although FIG. 3 illustrates and describes identifying whether to move the projection device after identifying whether to change the projection lens of the projection device, the present invention is not limited thereto. The projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify whether to change the projection lens after identifying whether to move the projection device. Alternatively, the projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify whether to change the projection lens while identifying whether to move the projection device.

[0092] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an example in which movement of a projection device and change of a projection lens must be performed according to one embodiment.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 4, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can perform a welcome action when a user returns home. For example, the projection device (100) can move near the entrance and project a first image content (410) including a welcome message onto the floor of the entrance or the floor near the entrance. At this time, the projection device (100) can use a first lens (short-focus lens or ultra-short-focus lens) to project the first image content (410) onto the floor of the entrance or the floor near the entrance.

[0094] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) may receive a user input requesting projection of second image content (420) while projecting first image content (410). In this case, the second image content (420) may be media content such as a movie or television program. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0095] The projection device (100) can identify the projection location of the second image content (420) as a screen (e.g., a wall, etc.) located in a room or living room, and the second lens (long focus lens) can be identified as one for projecting the second image content (420).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) can change the projection lens from the first lens to the second lens while moving from the entrance to a room or living room. The projection device (100) can use the second lens to project the second image content (420) onto a screen (430) that is far away from the projection device (100) (at a preset distance or more).

[0097] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an example in which movement of a projection device and change of a projection lens must be performed according to one embodiment.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 5, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can project exercise content. For example, the projection device (100) can project a first exercise image (510) that guides a first exercise motion. At this time, the first exercise motion is a standing motion, and the projection device (100) can project the first exercise image onto a wall located close to the projection device (100) (located at a preset distance or less). At this time, the projection device (100) can project the first exercise image using a first lens (a short-focus lens or an ultra-short-focus lens).

[0099] The projected video content may be changed from the first exercise image to a second exercise image (520) that guides a second exercise movement. In this case, the second exercise movement may be a movement performed while lying down. The projection device (100) may identify, based on information about the second exercise image (520), that the second exercise movement guided by the second exercise image (520) is a movement performed while lying down. In some embodiments, the projection device (100) may receive a request to change the projection position of the second exercise image (520) to the ceiling.

[0100] Accordingly, the projection device (100) can determine the projection position of the second motion image (520) as the ceiling. In order to project the second motion image (520) onto the ceiling, the projection device (100) must rotate the projection unit so that the projection direction of the projection device (100) is directed toward the ceiling, and it can be identified that the second lens (long focus lens) is used to project the content.

[0101] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can change the projection lens from a first lens to a second lens while rotating the projection unit using a driving unit. The projection device (100) can project a second motion image (520) onto the ceiling using the second lens.

[0102] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 6, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can obtain surrounding environment information (S610).

[0104] For example, the projection device (100) can sense various information using a distance measurement sensor, a camera and image sensor, a depth sensor, an infrared sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, etc. The projection device (100) can obtain surrounding environment information based on the sensed information.

[0105] The surrounding environment information may include at least one of the size, position, and type of a screen located around the projection device (100), the type, size, and position of an object located around the projection device (100), and movement information of the object.

[0106] A projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify image content to be projected (S620).

[0107] For example, the projection device (100) can obtain information about the type and content of the image content to be projected, the size and location of the screen suitable for projecting the image content, etc.

[0108] A projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify a projection location based on surrounding environment information and identified image content (S630).

[0109] For example, the projection device (100) can identify screens located around the projection device (100) and determine the most appropriate screen for projecting image content among the identified screens as the projection location. If a projection location corresponding to the identified image content is preset, the projection device (100) can determine the preset location as the projection location. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0110] A projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify whether to perform movement of the projection device and whether to perform change of the projection lens based on the identified projection position.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) can change the movement of the projection device or the projection lens (S640).

[0112] The projection device (100) can change the projection lens while moving the projection device (100), if movement of the projection device and change of the projection lens are to be performed. This has been described in detail in step 340 (S340) of FIG. 3, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0113] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an operation of a projection device according to one embodiment to set a projection lens based on surrounding environment information.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 7, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify screens located in the vicinity. For example, the projection device (100) can determine a first area (710) and a second area (720) as projection candidate areas.

[0115] A projection device (100) according to one embodiment can receive a request for projection of image content.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) can determine a projection area based on the image content to be projected. For example, if the image content to be projected is an image providing a message or information, it may be appropriate to project it in a narrow area near the user. Accordingly, the projection device (100) can determine the first area (710) as the projection location. In some embodiments, if the image content to be projected is media content, it may be appropriate to project it in an area that is a preset distance away from the user. Accordingly, the projection device (100) can determine the second area (720) as the projection location.

[0117] In some embodiments, the projection location can be determined based on a user input selecting one of the projection device (100) candidate areas (710, 720) as the projection area.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) may project image content using a first lens when projecting image content onto a first area (710). In addition, the projection device (100) may project image content using a second lens when projecting image content onto a second area (720).

[0119] A projection device (100) according to one embodiment can receive a user input requesting a change in the projection position of image content.

[0120] For example, the projection device (100) can receive a user input to change the projection position from the first area (710) to the second area (720). The projection device (100) can rotate the projection unit using the driving unit so that the projection direction is directed toward the second area (720). In addition, the projection device (100) can change the projection lens from the first lens to the second lens while rotating. The projection device (100) can project image content onto the second area (720) using the second lens.

[0121] In some embodiments, the projection device (100) can receive a user input to change the projection position from the second area (720) to the first area (710). The projection device (100) can rotate the projection unit using a driving unit so that the projection direction is directed toward the first area (710). In addition, the projection device (100) can change the projection lens from the second lens to the first lens while rotating. The projection device (100) can project image content onto the first area (710) using the first lens.

[0122] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing an operation of a projection device according to one embodiment to project image content.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 8, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can project image content (810) onto a screen.

[0124] The projection device (100) can detect an object located around the projection device (100). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the projection device (100) can detect an object located on a projection path at a preset interval using a camera (image sensor), etc. At this time, the object located on the projection path may include a moving object (820, for example, a dog, a cat, etc.). As illustrated in FIG. 8, the moving object (820) is located on a path along which the projection device (100) projects image content (810), and may interfere with the projection of the image content (810). Accordingly, the projection device (100) can be moved to a position where the projection is not interfered with by the moving object (820).

[0125] In one embodiment, when a projection device (100) detects a moving object (820) while projecting image content (810) using a second lens (long focus lens) at a first position, the projection device (100) may move to a position where the moving object (820) can be avoided. At this time, the projection device (100) may move to a second position if a change in the projection lens is not to be performed. For example, the projection device (100) may project image content (810) using the second lens (long focus lens) at the second position without being obstructed by the moving object (820).

[0126] In addition, the projection device (100) can continuously project the image content (810) while adjusting the projection direction without stopping the playback and projection of the image content (810) while moving from the first position to the second position.

[0127] The projection device (100) moved to the second position can continue to project image content (810) using the second lens without changing the projection lens.

[0128] Accordingly, the user can continue to view the projected image content (810) even if the projection device moves from the first position to the second position.

[0129] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an operation of a projection device according to one embodiment to project image content.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 9, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can detect an object located in the vicinity. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the projection device (100) can detect an object (920, for example, a dog, a cat, etc.) moving around the projection device (100) at a first location. The moving object (920) can be located between the screen (910) and the projection device (100). At this time, the projection device (100) may not be projecting image content.

[0131] The projection device (100) can be moved to a position where the projection is not obstructed by a moving object (920).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) may move to a position where projection is less likely to be interrupted, even if a change in projection lens is required when moving to that position when not projecting image content. For example, the third position may have a low probability of projection being interrupted by a moving object (920). The projection device (100) may be set to a second lens (long focus lens) at the first position, and may change the projection lens from the second lens to the first lens (short focus lens or ultra-short focus lens) while moving from the first position to the third position.

[0133] After the projection device (100) is moved to the third position, when a request for projection of image content is received, the projection device (100) can project the image content onto the screen using the first lens.

[0134] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 10, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can obtain user information (S1010).

[0136] User information may include at least one of the following: the user's location, the user's posture, the user's lifestyle pattern information, the projection device usage history information, the user's age, and the user's gender, but is not limited thereto.

[0137] A projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify a projection location of image content based on user information (S1020).

[0138] For example, the projection device (100) can analyze the user's location, status, posture, movement, etc. based on the image captured of the user. The projection device (100) can predict the user's behavior based on the user's location, status, posture, movement, etc. The projection device (100) can determine the projection position of the image content based on the user's predicted behavior.

[0139] Additionally, the projection device (100) can identify the user's gaze direction based on the user's posture. The projection device (100) can determine an area corresponding to the user's gaze direction as the projection location of the image content.

[0140] Additionally, the projection device (100) can predict the user's behavior based on the user's lifestyle pattern information. The projection device (100) can determine the projection location of the video content based on the user's predicted behavior.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) can move the projection device or change the projection lens (S1030) based on the projection position identified in step 1020 (S1020).

[0142] A projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify whether movement of the projection device should be performed and whether a change of the projection lens should be performed based on the identified projection position.

[0143] When the projection device (100) performs movement of the projection device and change of the projection lens, the projection lens can be changed while moving the projection device (100). This has been described in detail in step 340 (S340) of FIG. 3, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0144] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing an example of a projection device according to one embodiment setting a projection lens based on user information.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 11, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can capture a user (1110) positioned around the projection device (100) and analyze the user's position, status, posture, movement, etc. For example, the projection device (100) can identify that the user (1110) is sitting on a sofa and looking at a screen (1120, e.g., a wall, etc.).

[0146] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can predict the actions of a user (1110) based on the state of the user (1110). For example, the projection device (100) can predict that the user (1110) will request projection of image content on a screen (1120).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) can change the position and projection lens state of the projection device (100) in advance based on the predicted behavior of the user. For example, the projection device (100) can be moved in advance to an optimal position for projecting image content on the screen (1120).

[0148] The projection device (100) can change the projection lens in advance. For example, if a second lens is identified for projecting onto the screen (1120) at an optimal position (e.g., when the distance from the optimal position to the screen (1120) is far), and the current lens state is the first lens, the projection device (100) can change the projection lens from the first lens to the second lens while moving to the optimal position.

[0149] Alternatively, if the first lens is identified to project onto the screen (1120) at an optimal position (e.g., the distance from the optimal position to the screen (1120) is close), and the current lens state is the second lens, the projection device (100) can change the projection lens from the second lens to the first lens while moving to the optimal position.

[0150] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can perform projection immediately without waiting time when a user request is received by changing the position and projection lens state of the projection device (100) in advance based on the user's predicted behavior.

[0151] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing an example of a projection device according to one embodiment setting a projection lens based on user information.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 12, a projection device (100) projects an exercise image (1220) onto a screen (e.g., a wall), and a user (1210) may be exercising while viewing the exercise image projected onto the screen. At this time, the projection device (100) may project the exercise image onto the screen using a second lens (a long-focus lens).

[0153] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can photograph a user (1210) and analyze the user's (1210) position, status, posture, movement, etc. For example, the projection device (100) can photograph a user (1210) exercising and analyze the user's (1210) posture.

[0154] The projection device (100) can detect a change in the user's (1210) posture. For example, the projection device (100) can detect that the user (1210) has changed from exercising in a standing posture to a prone posture.

[0155] The projection device (100) can change the projection position based on a change in the posture of the user (1210). For example, when the user (1210) is lying face down, it is difficult to view the image content projected on a screen (e.g., a wall), and the projection position can be changed to an area located in the direction of the user's (1210) gaze when lying face down.

[0156] The projection device (100) can change the position, projection direction, or projection lens of the projection device based on the changed projection position. For example, the projection device (100) can rotate the projection unit to project the motion image to the area (1230) where the gaze of the prone user (1210) is directed. In addition, the projection lens can be changed from the second lens to the first lens to project the motion image to the area (1230). At this time, the projection device (100) can change the projection lens while rotating the projection unit using the driving unit.

[0157] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can project image content in the direction of the user's gaze by moving the projection device (100) or changing the projection lens based on the user's posture without a separate request from the user, thereby improving the user's convenience.

[0158] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing an example of a projection device according to one embodiment setting a projection lens based on user information.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 13, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can predict a user's behavior based on the user's lifestyle pattern information. For example, the projection device (100) can obtain the user's lifestyle pattern information based on the user's usage history (hourly usage history) of using the projection device (100). In one embodiment, the projection device (100) can obtain the user's lifestyle pattern information based on information received from a wearable device worn by the user or a portable terminal carried by the user. For example, the projection device (100) can obtain information that the user leaves work at a first hour and watches media content in the living room at a second hour.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) can change the position and projection lens state of the projection device (100) in advance of a first time period in order to perform a welcome operation. For example, the projection device (100) can be moved to a location near the entrance in advance of the first time period and the projection lens can be changed to a first lens (short-focus lens or ultra-short-focus lens).

[0161] Additionally, the projection device (100) according to one embodiment can change the position and projection lens state of the projection device (100) in advance of a second time for projection of media content. For example, the projection device (100) can be moved to the living room in advance of the second time and the projection lens can be changed to a second lens (long focus lens).

[0162] In addition, the projection device (100) can change the position of the projection device (100) and the projection lens status in advance based on the user's sleeping time, waking time, meal time, etc. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0163] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) can perform projection immediately without waiting time when a user request is received by changing the position and projection lens state of the projection device (100) in advance based on the user's lifestyle pattern.

[0164] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing an example of a projection device according to one embodiment setting a projection lens based on the position of the projection device.

[0165] Referring to FIG. 14, the projection device (100) can obtain information about the surrounding environment. For example, the projection device (100) can obtain information about whether a screen (1410, for example, a wall) exists in the surroundings, the distance from the projection device (100) to the screen (1410), the size of the screen (1410), brightness information about the surroundings of the projection device (100), etc.

[0166] According to one embodiment, the projection device (100) can set the projection lens based on the position of the projection device (100). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 14, when the distance between the projection device (100) and the peripheral screen (1410) is far (more than a preset distance), the projection device (100) can set the projection lens to a second lens (long focus lens). On the other hand, when the distance between the projection device (100) and the peripheral screen (1410) is close (less than a preset distance), the projection device (100) can set the projection lens to a first lens (short focus lens or ultra-short focus lens).

[0167] In addition, the projection device (100) according to one embodiment may set the projection lens to the first lens when the brightness value around the projection device (100) is higher than a preset value (bright). On the other hand, when the brightness value around the projection device (100) is lower than the preset value (dark), the projection lens may be set to the second lens. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the projection device (100) may be set to the second lens when the brightness around the projection device is bright, and to the first lens when the brightness around the projection device is dark.

[0168] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an operation of a projection device according to one embodiment of the present invention to move the projection device or change the projection lens.

[0169] Referring to FIG. 15, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment can identify screens located in the vicinity. For example, the projection device (100) can determine a first screen (1510) and a second screen (1520) as candidate screens.

[0170] According to one embodiment, a projection device (100) may be positioned at a first position, and a projection lens may be set to a first lens (a short-focus lens or an ultra-short-focus lens). In addition, a distance between the projection device (100) positioned at the first position and a first screen (1510) and a distance between the projection device (100) positioned at the first position and a second screen (1520) may be greater than or equal to a preset distance. Accordingly, the projection device (100) may move to a second position so as to come closer to the first screen (1510). In some embodiments, the projection device (100) may move to a third position so as to come closer to the second screen (1520).

[0171] In some embodiments, when the projection device (100) is positioned at the second position, the distance between the projection device (100) and the second screen (1520) may be greater than the distance between the projection device (100) and the first screen (1510). When the projection device (100) is positioned at the second position and the projection lens is set to the first lens (short-focus lens or ultra-short-focus lens), the projection device (100) can adjust the projection direction using the driving unit so that the projection direction is directed toward the first screen (1510). In addition, when the projection device (100) is positioned at the second position and the projection lens is set to the second lens (long-focus lens), the projection device (100) can adjust the projection direction using the driving unit so that the projection direction is directed toward the second screen (1520).

[0172] In some embodiments, when the projection device (100) is positioned at the third position, the distance between the projection device (100) and the first screen (1510) may be greater than the distance between the projection device (100) and the second screen (1520). When the projection device (100) is positioned at the third position and the projection lens is set to the first lens, the projection device (100) may use the driving unit to adjust the projection direction so that the projection direction is directed toward the second screen (1520). In addition, when the projection device (100) is positioned at the third position and the projection lens is set to the second lens, the projection device (100) may use the driving unit to adjust the projection direction so that the projection direction is directed toward the first screen (1510).

[0173] Fig. 16 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a projection device according to one embodiment.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 16, a projection device (100) according to one embodiment may include a sensor unit (130), a projection unit (110), a processor (140), a memory (150), a lens driving unit (120), a driving unit (160), and a communication unit (170).

[0175] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (130) can sense the state around the projection device (100). The sensor unit (130) can include one or more of a distance sensor, an image sensor, a depth sensor, an infrared sensor, etc. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0176] A distance sensor according to one embodiment can detect the distance to a surrounding object. For example, the distance sensor may include an ultrasonic distance sensor that measures distance using ultrasonic waves, an infrared distance sensor that measures distance using infrared waves, a laser distance sensor that measures distance using laser waves, etc. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0177] An image sensor according to one embodiment can acquire image frames, such as still images or video images. For example, the image sensor can capture images outside the projection device (100). In this case, the images captured by the image sensor can be processed by the processor (140) or a separate image processor.

[0178] A depth sensor according to one embodiment can obtain depth information about one or more objects included in a space. The depth information can correspond to a distance from the depth sensor to a specific object, and the greater the distance from the depth sensor to the specific object, the greater the depth value. A depth sensor according to one embodiment can obtain depth information about an object in various ways, and for example, can obtain depth information using at least one of a time-of-flight (TOF) method, a stereo image method, and a structured light method.

[0179] A depth sensor according to one embodiment may include at least one camera, and may acquire depth information about a real space included in a FOV of a camera included in the depth sensor.

[0180] In addition, the sensor unit (130) may include one or more of an acceleration sensor, a position sensor, a temperature / humidity sensor, an illuminance sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a gyroscope sensor, and a microphone, in addition to a distance sensor, an image sensor, a depth sensor, and an infrared sensor. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0181] The sensor unit (130) can transmit the sensed information to the processor (140). The processor (140) can obtain surrounding environment information based on the sensed information. The surrounding environment information can include at least one of the size, location, and type of a screen located around the projection device (100), the type, size, and location of an object located around the projection device (100), and movement information of the object. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0182] According to one embodiment, the projection unit (110) may include a light source that generates light, a lens, etc. For example, the projection unit (110) may include a first lens having a first focal length and a second lens having a second focal length longer than the first focal length. The first lens may include at least one of a short focal length lens and an ultra-short focal length lens. The second lens may include a long focal length lens. Accordingly, the processor (140) may control the projection unit (110) to project using the second lens when projecting media content such as a movie or a TV broadcast program onto a distant screen. In addition, the processor (140) may control the projection unit (110) to project using the first lens when projecting video content that provides a message or information (e.g., a road guidance video or a welcome mode video). However, it is not limited to this.

[0183] According to one embodiment, the lens driving unit (120) can change the projection lens by adjusting the positions of the lenses included in the projection unit (110). For example, the lens driving unit (120) may include a sliding structure, and a first lens and a second lens may be mounted on one side of the sliding structure. The lens driving unit (120) may include a motor or a rail, and may move the sliding structure using the motor or the rail, but is not limited thereto.

[0184] The lens driving unit (120) can change the projection lens from the first lens to the second lens or from the second lens to the first lens.

[0185] In addition, the projection unit (110) according to one embodiment can project various video contents such as movies, TV programs, videos, motion pictures, online streaming services, and advertising contents, but is not limited thereto.

[0186] According to one embodiment, the driving unit (160) can perform movement of the projection device (100) under the control of the processor (140). For example, the driving unit (160) can perform driving of the projection device (100) or rotational movement of the projection unit (110) according to a control signal received from the processor (140).

[0187] According to one embodiment, a processor (140) controls the overall operation of the projection device (100) and the signal flow between internal components of the projection device (100), and performs the function of processing data.

[0188] The processor (140) may include single cores, dual cores, triple cores, quad cores, and multiples thereof. Furthermore, the processor (140) may include multiple processors. For example, the processor (140) may be implemented as a main processor and sub processors.

[0189] In addition, the processor (140) may include at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a VPU (Video Processing Unit). Depending on the embodiment, the processor (140) 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. The processor (140) may further include an NPU (Neural Processing Unit).

[0190] According to one embodiment, the memory (150) can store various data, programs or applications for driving and controlling the projection device (100).

[0191] Additionally, the program stored in the memory (150) may include one or more instructions. The program (one or more instructions) or application stored in the memory (150) may be executed by the processor (140).

[0192] According to one embodiment, the processor (140) may acquire image content to be projected by executing one or more instructions stored in the memory (150). The image content according to one embodiment may be image content previously stored in the memory (150) or image content received from an external device via the communication unit (170). In addition, the image content may be an image on which various image processing such as decoding, scaling, noise filtering, frame rate conversion, and resolution conversion are performed in the video processing unit.

[0193] According to one embodiment, a processor (140) can identify a location to project image content by executing one or more instructions stored in a memory (150).

[0194] According to one embodiment, the processor (140) may obtain information about the surrounding environment of the projection device (100) and, based on the information about the surrounding environment, determine a location to project image content. For example, the processor (140) may obtain the information about the surrounding environment by executing one or more instructions stored in the memory (150). The information about the surrounding environment may include at least one of the size, location, and type of a screen located around the projection device (100), the type, size, and location of an object located around the projection device (100), and movement information of the object. The processor (140) may identify screens located around the projection device (100).

[0195] Additionally, the processor (140) can determine a location to project image content based on information about the image content to be projected by executing one or more instructions stored in the memory (150).

[0196] For example, if the image content to be projected is a media image (e.g., a movie, etc.), the processor (140) can identify whether a screen having a size greater than a preset value exists around the projection device (100) in order to project the media image. If a screen having a size greater than the preset value is identified around the projection device (100), the processor (140) can determine the location of the screen as a location to project the movie.

[0197] If the image content to be projected is an image providing a message or information, the processor (140) can determine the floor or wall surrounding the projection device (100) as the location to project the image content.

[0198] According to one embodiment, the processor (140) can determine the projection location based on a user input selecting one of the screens identified around the projection device (100) as the projection area.

[0199] According to one embodiment, the processor (140) may acquire user information by executing one or more instructions stored in the memory (150), and identify a projection location of image content based on the user information. The user information may include at least one of the user's location, the user's posture, the user's lifestyle pattern information, the projection device usage history information, the user's age, and the user's gender. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0200] For example, the processor (140) can analyze the user's location, status, posture, and movement based on the captured image of the user. The processor (140) can predict the user's behavior based on the user's status (e.g., the user is sitting on a sofa and looking at the screen). For example, the processor (140) can predict that the user will request the projection of video content on the screen. The processor (140) can determine the projection location of the video content based on the predicted behavior of the user.

[0201] According to one embodiment, the processor (140) can identify the user's gaze direction based on the user's posture and determine an area corresponding to the user's gaze direction as a projection location of the image content.

[0202] According to one embodiment, the processor (140) can predict the user's behavior based on the user's lifestyle pattern information. For example, the processor (140) can obtain the user's lifestyle pattern information based on the user's usage history (hourly usage history) of the projection device. According to one embodiment, the processor (140) can obtain the user's lifestyle pattern information based on information received from a wearable device worn by the user or a portable terminal carried by the user.

[0203] For example, the processor (140) may obtain information based on the user's lifestyle pattern information, indicating that the user performs a first action at a first time and a second action at a second time. The processor (140) may determine the projection location of the image content based on the user's predicted actions. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the processor (140) according to one embodiment may identify the location for projecting the image content using various methods.

[0204] A processor (140) according to one embodiment can identify whether a projection lens needs to be changed to project image content at an identified projection location.

[0205] The processor (140) can identify whether to change the projection lens based on the identified projection lens for projecting image content at the identified projection location. For example, if the currently set projection lens is a first lens (short-focus lens or ultra-short-focus lens) and the identified projection location is a preset distance or more from the projection device (100), the processor (140) can identify that a second lens (long-focus lens) is identified to project image content at the corresponding location, and thus a change of the projection lens must be performed. In one embodiment, the processor (140) can identify that a currently set projection lens is a second lens and the identified projection location is close to the projection device (100), and thus a first lens is identified to project image content at the corresponding location, and thus a change of the projection lens must be performed.

[0206] Additionally, the processor (140) according to one embodiment may identify whether to move the projection device (100) to project image content at the identified projection location. For example, the processor (140) may perform a translational movement to change the location of the projection device (100) to project image content at the projection location, or a rotational movement to change the projection direction at the same location.

[0207] In one embodiment, the processor (140) may change the projection lens while moving the projection device (100), if a change of the projection lens and movement of the projection device (100) are to be performed. For example, the processor (140) may control the lens driving unit (120) to change the projection lens from a first lens to a second lens, or from a second lens to a first lens, while moving.

[0208] Accordingly, by performing the lens change operation while the projection device (100) is moving, the waiting time due to the lens change operation can be saved.

[0209] According to one embodiment, the processor (140) can control the projection unit (110) to temporarily suspend playback of the image content and stop projection while the projection lens is being changed and the projection device is being moved, if the projection device (100) is projecting image content.

[0210] According to one embodiment, the processor (140) can control the projection unit (110) to continue playing the advertisement content without pausing the playback even when the projection lens is changed or the projection device is moved, and only stop the projection, if the video content being played is advertisement content.

[0211] In a case where the projection device (100) according to one embodiment includes a cover or the like that can open and close the projection unit (110), the processor (140) can control the cover to be closed during a change of the projection lens and movement of the projection device so that the image content is not projected on the screen.

[0212] Additionally, the processor (140) according to one embodiment can control the LED module, audio output module, etc. included in the projection device (100) to notify the user of a change in the projection lens and movement of the projection device.

[0213] A communication unit (170) according to one embodiment can transmit and receive data or signals with an external device or server. For example, the communication unit (170) can include a Wi-Fi module, a Bluetooth module, an infrared communication module, a wireless communication module, a LAN module, an Ethernet module, a wired communication module, etc. In this case, each communication module can be implemented in the form of at least one hardware chip.

[0214] The Wi-Fi module and Bluetooth module perform communication in the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modes, respectively. When using the Wi-Fi module or Bluetooth module, various connection information such as the SSID and session key are first transmitted and received, and after establishing a communication connection using this, various information can be transmitted and received. The wireless communication module may include at least one communication chip that performs communication according to various wireless communication standards such as Zigbee, 3G (3rd Generation), 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (LTE Advanced), 4G (4th Generation), and 5G (5th Generation).

[0215] According to one embodiment, the communication unit (170) can receive an image or image content to be projected from an external device.

[0216] According to one embodiment, the communication unit (170) can receive user information from a user terminal or a wearable device worn by the user.

[0217] Meanwhile, the block diagram of the projection device (100) illustrated in FIG. 16 is a block diagram for one embodiment. Each component of the block diagram may be integrated, added, or omitted depending on the specifications of the projection device (100) actually implemented. That is, two or more components may be combined into one component, or one component may be subdivided into two or more components, as needed. In addition, the functions performed by each block are for explaining embodiments, and the specific operations or devices thereof do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0218] A movable projection device according to one embodiment may include a first lens having a first focal length and a second lens having a second focal length longer than the first focal length, and may include a projection unit that projects image content using either the first lens or the second lens.

[0219] A projection device according to one embodiment may include a lens driving unit that changes a projection lens so that the image content is projected through one of the first lens and the second lens.

[0220] A projection device according to one embodiment may include a memory storing one or more instructions, and at least one processor executing the one or more instructions.

[0221] At least one processor according to one embodiment can identify a location to project the image content by executing the one or more instructions.

[0222] At least one processor according to one embodiment can identify, by executing the one or more instructions, whether movement of the projection device should be performed and whether a change of the projection lens should be performed based on a location where the image content is to be projected.

[0223] At least one processor according to one embodiment can control the lens driver to change the projection lens from the first lens to the second lens or from the second lens to the first lens while moving the projection device based on the identification that the projection device needs to be moved and the projection lens needs to be changed by executing the one or more instructions.

[0224] According to one embodiment, the first lens may include at least one of a short focal length lens and an ultra-short focal length lens.

[0225] According to one embodiment, the second lens may include a long focal length lens.

[0226] Movement of the projection device according to one embodiment may include a driving movement of the projection device and a rotational movement of the projection unit.

[0227] A projection device according to one embodiment may further include a driving unit that performs driving movement of the projection device and rotational movement of the projection unit.

[0228] At least one processor according to one embodiment can identify whether the projection lens has been changed based on the currently set projection lens information and the lens information for projecting the image content at the projection location by executing the one or more instructions.

[0229] At least one processor according to one embodiment can control the projection unit to pause playback of the image content and not project the image content while moving the projection device by executing the one or more instructions.

[0230] A projection device according to one embodiment may further include a sensor unit that obtains information about the surrounding environment of the projection device.

[0231] At least one processor according to one embodiment can identify a location to project the image content based on environmental information surrounding the projection device by executing the one or more instructions.

[0232] The surrounding environment information according to one embodiment may include at least one of the location, size, and type of a screen located around the projection device, and the type, size, location, and movement information of an object located around the projection device.

[0233] At least one processor according to one embodiment can obtain user information by executing one or more of the instructions.

[0234] At least one processor according to one embodiment can identify a location to project the image content based on the user information by executing the one or more instructions.

[0235] User information according to one embodiment may include at least one of the user's location information, posture information, lifestyle pattern information, and usage history information of the projection device.

[0236] At least one processor according to one embodiment can identify a gaze direction of the user based on the posture information of the user by executing the one or more instructions.

[0237] At least one processor according to one embodiment can identify, by executing the one or more instructions, whether to move the projection device and whether to change the projection lens in order to project the image content in the direction of the user's gaze.

[0238] A method of operating a movable projection device according to one embodiment may include a step of identifying a location at which image content is to be projected.

[0239] A method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment may include a step of identifying whether to move the projection device and whether to change a projection lens based on a location where the image content is to be projected.

[0240] A method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment may include moving the projection device and, based on identification of changing the projection lens, changing the projection lens from a first lens having a first focal length to a second lens having a second focal length longer than the first focal length, or from the second lens to the first lens while moving the projection device.

[0241] A method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment may include a step of projecting the image content.

[0242] According to one embodiment, the first lens may include at least one of a short focal length lens and an ultra-short focal length lens.

[0243] According to one embodiment, the second lens may include a long focal length lens.

[0244] The step of changing the projection lens while moving the projection device according to one embodiment may include the step of changing the projection lens while moving the projection device or rotating the projection unit.

[0245] The step of identifying whether to change the projection lens according to one embodiment may include the step of identifying whether to change the projection lens based on the currently set projection lens information and lens information for projecting the image content at the projection location.

[0246] The step of changing the projection lens while moving the projection device according to one embodiment may include the step of pausing playback of the image content while moving the projection device and controlling the projection unit not to project the image content.

[0247] A method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment may further include a step of acquiring information about the surrounding environment of the projection device.

[0248] The step of identifying a location to project image content according to one embodiment may include a step of identifying a location to project the image content based on environmental information surrounding the projection device.

[0249] The surrounding environment information according to one embodiment may include at least one of the location, size, and type of a screen located around the projection device, and the type, size, location, and movement information of an object located around the projection device.

[0250] The method of operation according to one embodiment may further include a step of obtaining user information.

[0251] The step of identifying a location to project image content according to one embodiment may include a step of identifying a location to project image content based on the user information.

[0252] User information according to one embodiment may include at least one of the user's location information, posture information, lifestyle pattern information, and usage history information of the projection device.

[0253] According to one embodiment, a projection device can save time required for changing lenses by changing projection lenses while the projection device is moving, when movement of the projection device and changing of projection lenses are required.

[0254] A projection device according to one embodiment can perform projection immediately without waiting time when a user request is received by changing the position of the projection device and the projection lens state in advance based on the user's predicted behavior.

[0255] According to one embodiment, a projection device can project image content in the direction of a user's gaze by moving the projection device or changing the projection lens based on the user's posture without a separate request from the user, thereby improving user convenience.

[0256] A projection device according to one embodiment can perform projection immediately without waiting time when a user request is received by changing the position of the projection device and the projection lens state in advance based on the user's lifestyle pattern.

[0257] The method of operating a projection device according to one embodiment may be implemented in the form of program commands that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program commands, data files, data structures, etc., alone or in combination. The program commands recorded on the medium may be those specially designed and configured for the present invention or may be those known to and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of computer-readable recording media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program commands, such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memories. Examples of program commands include not only machine language codes generated by a compiler, but also high-level language codes that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc.

[0258] Additionally, the method of operating a projection device according to the disclosed embodiments may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer.

[0259] A computer program product may include a software program and a computer-readable storage medium on which the software program is stored. For example, a computer program product may include a product in the form of a software program (e.g., a downloadable app) distributed electronically by an electronic device manufacturer or through an electronic marketplace (e.g., Google Play Store, App Store). For electronic distribution, at least a portion of the software program may be stored on a storage medium or temporarily created. In this case, the storage medium may be a storage medium of a manufacturer's server, an electronic marketplace server, or a relay server that temporarily stores the software program.

[0260] In a system comprising a server and a client device, the computer program product may include a storage medium of the server or a storage medium of the client device. Alternatively, if a third device (e.g., a smartphone) exists that is communicatively connected to the server or the client device, the computer program product may include a storage medium of the third device. Alternatively, the computer program product may include a software program itself that is transmitted from the server to the client device or the third device, or from the third device to the client device.

[0261] In this case, one of the server, the client device, and the third device may execute the computer program product to perform the method according to the disclosed embodiments. Alternatively, two or more of the server, the client device, and the third device may execute the computer program product to perform the method according to the disclosed embodiments in a distributed manner.

[0262] For example, a server (e.g., a cloud server or an artificial intelligence server, etc.) may execute a computer program product stored on the server, thereby controlling a client device in communication with the server to perform a method according to the disclosed embodiments.

[0263] The embodiments described above are merely specific examples intended to illustrate and aid understanding of the technical content of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be interpreted to encompass not only the embodiments disclosed herein, but also all modifications or variations that may be derived based on the technical concepts of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. In a movable projection device (100), A projection unit (110) including a first lens having a first focal length and a second lens having a second focal length longer than the first focal length, and projecting image content through a projection lens that is one of the first lens and the second lens; A lens driving unit (120) that changes the projection lens so that the image content is projected through the projection lens; A memory (150) storing one or more instructions; and At least one processor (140) that executes one or more of the above instructions, The at least one processor (140) executes the one or more instructions, Identify the location where the above video content will be projected, Based on the location where the above image content is to be projected, it is identified whether the projection device is moved and whether the projection lens is changed, A projection device, wherein the lens driving unit is controlled to change the projection lens from one of the first lens or the second lens to the other of the first lens or the second lens in the moving state of the projection device based on identifying that the projection device is being moved and that the projection lens is being changed.

2. In paragraph 1, A projection device, wherein the first lens further includes at least one of a short focal length lens and an ultra-short focal length lens, and the second lens further includes a long focal length lens.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The projection device further includes a driving unit that performs driving movement of the projection device and rotational movement of the projection unit, The at least one processor (140) executes the one or more instructions, In the moving state of the projection device, the driving unit is controlled to perform driving movement of the projection device or rotational movement of the projector. Projection device.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The at least one processor (140) executes the one or more instructions, A projection device that identifies whether the projection lens has been changed based on the projection lens information and lens information corresponding to the projection position.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The at least one processor (140) executes the one or more instructions, A projection device that, in a moving state of the projection device, pauses the image content and controls the projection unit so as not to project the image content.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above projection device It further includes a sensor unit (130) that obtains information on the surrounding environment of the projection device; The at least one processor (140) executes the one or more instructions, A projection device that identifies a location to project the image content based on information about the surrounding environment of the projection device.

7. In paragraph 6, A projection device, wherein the above-mentioned surrounding environment information includes at least one of the position, size, and type of the screen, and the type, size, position, and movement information of the object.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The at least one processor (140) executes the one or more instructions, Obtain user information, A projection device that identifies a location to project the video content based on the user information.

9. In paragraph 8, The above user information is: A projection device comprising at least one of the user's location information, posture information, lifestyle pattern information, and usage history information of the projection device.

10. In paragraph 9, The at least one processor (140) executes the one or more instructions, Based on the user's posture information, the user's gaze direction is identified, Identify the location where the video content is to be projected based on the user's gaze direction, A projection device that identifies whether to move the projection device and whether to change the projection lens based on the position where the image content is to be projected according to the direction of the user's gaze.

11. A method of operating a movable projection device (100) including a projection unit including a first lens having a first focal length and a second lens having a second focal length greater than the first focal length, and a lens driving unit configured to change a projection lens through which image content is projected. A step of identifying a location to project the above video content (S310); A step (S320, S330) of identifying whether the projection device is moved or the projection lens is changed based on the location where the image content is to be projected; A step (S340) of changing the projection lens from one of the first lens or the second lens to the other of the first lens or the second lens in a moving state of the projection device based on identifying that the projection device is being moved and that the projection lens is being changed; and A method of operating a projection device, comprising a step (S350) of projecting the above image content.

12. In paragraph 11, A method of operating a projection device, wherein the first lens comprises at least one of a short focal length lens and an ultra-short focal length lens, and the second lens comprises a long focal length lens.

13. In paragraph 11 or 12, The above projection device further includes a driving unit that performs driving movement of the projection device and rotational movement of the projection unit, In the above moving state, the step of changing the projection lens is: A method of operating a projection device, comprising a step of changing the projection lens in a state of controlling the driving unit to perform a driving movement of the projection device or in a state of controlling the driving unit to perform a rotational movement of the projection unit.

14. In any one of paragraphs 11 to 13, The step of identifying whether the above projection lens has been changed is: A method of operating a projection device, comprising a step of identifying whether the projection lens has been changed based on the projection lens information and lens information corresponding to the projection position.

15. Step of identifying the location where the video content will be projected; A step of identifying whether to move the projection device and whether to change the projection lens through which the image content is projected, based on the location where the image content is to be projected; A step of changing the projection lens, which is one of the first lens or the second lens, to either the first lens or the second lens in the moving state of the projection device based on identifying that the projection device is being moved and that the projection lens is being changed; and A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium having stored thereon a program that causes one or more processors to execute a method including a step of projecting the above image content.

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