Electronic device and method for operating same

Abstract

An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: an input interface that receives a key input signal from a remote control; a wired communication interface that communicates with a display device through the high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) standard; and a processor that determines an HDMI operation mode of the electronic device on the basis of an HDMI signal received from the display device, receives the key input signal from the remote control when the HDMI operation mode is determined to be a reception mode, and ignores the received key input signal if a key input corresponding to the received key input signal is not a preset key input.

Description

Electronic device and method of operation thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device, and more particularly, to an electronic device that is connected via an external input of a display device and transmits and receives data.

[0002] Digital TV services utilizing wired or wireless networks are becoming more widespread. Digital TV services can offer a variety of services not available with existing analog broadcasting services.

[0003] For example, IPTV (Internet Protocol Television), a type of digital TV service, and smart TV services offer interactivity, allowing users to actively choose the type of program they want to watch and when. Building on this interactivity, IPTV and smart TV services can also offer a variety of additional services, such as internet search, home shopping, and online games.

[0004] The TV can be connected to an electronic device via an external input, and can receive audio / video data from the electronic device or transmit audio / video data to the electronic device.

[0005] When an electronic device is connected to the TV via an external input, but the electronic device is not selected as an external input for the TV, there is a problem in which the electronic device malfunctions, such as content being played due to key operations on the electronic device's remote control.

[0006] Malfunctions in electronic devices can cause users to experience inconvenience in using them.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure may be to prevent malfunction of an electronic device connected to a display device due to key input of a remote control when the electronic device operates in a receiving mode.

[0008] The purpose of the present disclosure may be to perform only an operation corresponding to a key input signal corresponding to a preset key input from a remote control when an electronic device connected to a display device operates in a receiving mode.

[0009] An object of the present disclosure may be to block key inputs other than preset key inputs from a remote control when an electronic device connected to a display device operates in a receiving mode.

[0010] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an input interface for receiving a key input signal from a remote control; a wired communication interface for communicating with a display device through an HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) standard; and a processor for determining an HDMI operation mode of the electronic device based on an HDMI signal received from the display device, receiving the key input signal from the remote control when the HDMI operation mode is determined to be a reception mode, and ignoring the received key input signal if a key input corresponding to the received key input signal is not a preset key input.

[0011] A method of operating an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: determining an HDMI operation mode of the electronic device based on an HDMI signal received from a display device; receiving a key input signal from the remote control when the HDMI operation mode is determined to be a reception mode; and ignoring the received key input signal when a key input corresponding to the received key input signal is not a preset key input.

[0012] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when the HDMI mode of an electronic device is in reception mode, only basic operations of the electronic device can be controlled via a remote control, and operations other than basic operations can be blocked. Accordingly, malfunctions of the electronic device can be prevented, so that the user can use the electronic device without inconvenience.

[0013] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when the HDMI mode of an electronic device is in reception mode, text indicating that the power key, volume key, and mute key among the keys provided on the remote control are operable may be included. The user can easily recognize the keys that are operable in the reception mode of the electronic device through the guide.

[0014] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a remote control device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 3 shows an example of an actual configuration of a remote control device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 4 shows an example of utilizing a remote control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an operating method of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIGS. 7 and 8 are diagrams illustrating a process of processing a key input of a remote control based on detection of an HPD signal when the electronic device is not the main external input of the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an operation according to a key input of a remote control in a receiving mode of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a drawing explaining a guide provided by a display device when the HDMI operation mode of an electronic device is switched from a reception mode to a transmission mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments related to the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. The suffixes "module" and "part" used in the following description for components are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not in themselves have distinct meanings or roles.

[0025] A display device according to an embodiment of the present invention is, for example, an intelligent display device that adds computer-assisted functionality to its broadcast reception function. While faithfully performing the broadcast reception function, it can also be equipped with Internet functionality and other features, providing a more user-friendly interface, such as a manual input device, touch screen, or space remote control. Furthermore, with support for wired or wireless Internet functionality, it can connect to the Internet and a computer, enabling functions such as email, web browsing, banking, or gaming. A standardized, general-purpose operating system can be used for these various functions.

[0026] Accordingly, the display device described in the present invention can perform various user-friendly functions, for example, by allowing various applications to be freely added or deleted on a general-purpose operating system kernel. More specifically, the display device can be a network TV, HBB TV, smart TV, LED TV, OLED TV, etc., and in some cases, it can also be applied to smartphones.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Referring to FIG. 1, a display device (100) may include a video receiver (130), an external device interface (135), a memory (140), a user input interface (150), a controller (170), a wireless communication interface (173), a display (180), a speaker (185), and a power supply circuit (190).

[0029] The video receiver (130) may include a tuner (131), a demodulator (132), and a network interface (133).

[0030] The tuner (131) can select a specific broadcast channel according to a channel selection command. The tuner (131) can receive a broadcast signal for the selected specific broadcast channel.

[0031] The demodulator (132) can separate the received broadcast signal into a video signal, an audio signal, and a data signal related to the broadcast program, and can restore the separated video signal, audio signal, and data signal into a form that can be output.

[0032] The external device interface (135) can receive an application or a list of applications within an adjacent external device and transmit it to the controller (170) or memory (140).

[0033] The external device interface (135) can provide a connection path between the display device (100) and the external device. The external device interface (135) can receive one or more of images and audio output from an external device connected wirelessly or wiredly to the display device (100) and transmit them to the controller (170). The external device interface (135) can include a plurality of external input terminals. The plurality of external input terminals can include an RGB terminal, one or more HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) terminals, and a component terminal.

[0034] A video signal of an external device input through an external device interface (135) can be output through a display (180). A voice signal of an external device input through an external device interface (135) can be output through a speaker (185).

[0035] An external device that can be connected to the external device interface (135) may be any one of a set-top box, a Blu-ray player, a DVD player, a game console, a sound bar, a smartphone, a PC, a USB memory, and a home theater, but this is only an example.

[0036] The network interface (133) may provide an interface for connecting the display device (100) to a wired / wireless network including the Internet. The network interface (133) may transmit or receive data to or from other users or other electronic devices via the connected network or another network linked to the connected network.

[0037] Additionally, some content data stored in the display device (100) can be transmitted to a selected user or electronic device among other users or other electronic devices pre-registered in the display device (100).

[0038] The network interface (133) can access a predetermined web page through a connected network or another network linked to the connected network. That is, by accessing a predetermined web page through a network, data can be transmitted or received with the corresponding server.

[0039] In addition, the network interface (133) can receive content or data provided by a content provider or network operator. That is, the network interface (133) can receive content such as movies, advertisements, games, VOD, broadcast signals, etc. and information related thereto provided from a content provider or network provider via a network.

[0040] Additionally, the network interface (133) can receive firmware update information and update files provided by the network operator, and can transmit data to the Internet or content provider or network operator.

[0041] The network interface (133) can select and receive a desired application from among applications open to the public via a network.

[0042] The memory (140) stores a program for each signal processing and control within the controller (170), and can store signal-processed image, voice, or data signals.

[0043] In addition, the memory (140) may perform a function for temporary storage of video, audio, or data signals input from an external device interface (135) or a network interface (133), and may store information about a specific image through a channel memory function.

[0044] The memory (140) can store an application or a list of applications input from an external device interface (135) or a network interface (133).

[0045] The display device (100) can play content files (video files, still image files, music files, document files, application files, etc.) stored in the memory (140) and provide them to the user.

[0046] The user input interface (150) can transmit a signal input by the user to the controller (170) or transmit a signal from the controller (170) to the user. For example, the user input interface (150) can receive and process control signals such as power on / off, channel selection, and screen setting from the remote control device (200) according to various communication methods such as Bluetooth, Ultra Wideband (WB), ZigBee, Radio Frequency (RF) communication, or infrared (IR) communication, or process the control signals from the controller (170) to be transmitted to the remote control device (200).

[0047] In addition, the user input interface (150) can transmit control signals input from local keys (not shown) such as a power key, channel key, volume key, and setting value to the controller (170).

[0048] An image signal processed by the controller (170) can be input to the display (180) and displayed as an image corresponding to the image signal. In addition, an image signal processed by the controller (170) can be input to an external output device through an external device interface (135).

[0049] The voice signal processed by the controller (170) can be output as audio to the speaker (185). In addition, the voice signal processed by the controller (170) can be input to an external output device through the external device interface (135).

[0050] In addition, the controller (170) can control the overall operation within the display device (100).

[0051] In addition, the controller (170) can control the display device (100) by a user command or internal program input through the user input interface (150), and can connect to a network to enable the user to download a desired application or application list into the display device (100).

[0052] The controller (170) enables the user-selected channel information, etc. to be output through a display (180) or speaker (185) together with processed video or audio signals.

[0053] In addition, the controller (170) allows a video signal or audio signal from an external device, for example, a camera or camcorder, input through the external device interface (135) to be output through the display (180) or speaker (185) in accordance with an external device video playback command received through the user input interface (150).

[0054] Meanwhile, the controller (170) can control the display (180) to display an image, for example, a broadcast image input through a tuner (131), an external input image input through an external device interface (135), an image input through a network interface, or an image stored in a memory (140) can be controlled to be displayed on the display (180). In this case, the image displayed on the display (180) can be a still image or a moving image, and can be a 2D image or a 3D image.

[0055] In addition, the controller (170) can control the playback of content stored in the display device (100), received broadcast content, or external input content input from outside, and the content can be in various forms such as broadcast video, external input video, audio file, still image, connected web screen, and document file.

[0056] The wireless communication interface (173) can communicate with an external device through wired or wireless communication. The wireless communication interface (173) can perform short-range communication with the external device. To this end, the wireless communication interface (173) can support short-range communication using at least one of Bluetooth™, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), UWB (Ultra Wideband), ZigBee, NFC (Near Field Communication), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Wi-Fi Direct, and Wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus) technologies. This wireless communication interface (173) can support wireless communication between the display device (100) and a wireless communication system, between the display device (100) and another display device (100), or between the display device (100) and a network in which the display device (100, or an external server) is located via a short-range wireless communication network (Wireless Area Network). The short-range wireless communication network can be a short-range wireless personal area network (Wireless Personal Area Network).

[0057] Here, the other display device (100) may be a wearable device (e.g., a smartwatch, smart glasses, a head-mounted display (HMD)) or a mobile terminal such as a smart phone that can exchange data with (or be linked to) the display device (100) according to the present invention. The wireless communication interface (173) may detect (or recognize) a wearable device capable of communication around the display device (100).

[0058] Furthermore, if the detected wearable device is a device certified to communicate with the display device (100) according to the present invention, the controller (170) can transmit at least a portion of the data processed in the display device (100) to the wearable device via the wireless communication interface (173). Accordingly, a user of the wearable device can utilize the data processed in the display device (100) via the wearable device.

[0059] The display (180) can generate a driving signal by converting a video signal, data signal, OSD signal processed by the controller (170) or a video signal, data signal, etc. received from an external device interface (135) into R, G, and B signals, respectively.

[0060] Meanwhile, since the display device (100) illustrated in FIG. 1 is merely an embodiment of the present invention, some of the illustrated components may be integrated, added, or omitted depending on the specifications of the display device (100) actually implemented.

[0061] That is, two or more components may be combined into a single component, or a single component may be subdivided into two or more components, as needed. Furthermore, the functions performed by each block are intended to illustrate embodiments of the present invention, and their specific operations or devices do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0062] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the display device (100) may receive and play back an image through a network interface (133) or an external device interface (135) without having a tuner (131) and a demodulator (132), unlike that shown in FIG. 1.

[0063] For example, the display device (100) may be implemented separately as an image processing device, such as a set-top box, for receiving broadcast signals or contents according to various network services, and a content playback device for playing contents input from the image processing device.

[0064] In this case, the operating method of the display device according to the embodiment of the present invention to be described below may be performed by any one of the display device (100) described with reference to FIG. 1, as well as an image processing device such as the separated set-top box, or a content playback device having a display (180) and a speaker (185).

[0065] Next, a remote control device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0066] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a remote control device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 shows an example of an actual configuration of a remote control device (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] First, referring to FIG. 2, the remote control device (200) may include a fingerprint recognition device (210), a wireless communication circuit (220), a user input interface (230), a sensor (240), an output interface (250), a power supply circuit (260), a memory (270), a controller (280), and a microphone (290).

[0068] Referring to FIG. 2, the wireless communication circuit (220) transmits and receives signals with any one of the display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention described above.

[0069] The remote control device (200) may be equipped with an RF circuit (221) capable of transmitting and receiving signals with the display device (100) according to RF communication standards, and an IR circuit (223) capable of transmitting and receiving signals with the display device (100) according to IR communication standards. In addition, the remote control device (200) may be equipped with a Bluetooth circuit (225) capable of transmitting and receiving signals with the display device (100) according to Bluetooth communication standards. In addition, the remote control device (200) may be equipped with an NFC circuit (227) capable of transmitting and receiving signals with the display device (100) according to NFC (Near Field Communication) communication standards, and a WLAN circuit (229) capable of transmitting and receiving signals with the display device (100) according to WLAN (Wireless LAN) communication standards.

[0070] Additionally, the remote control device (200) transmits a signal containing information about the movement of the remote control device (200) to the display device (100) through a wireless communication circuit (220).

[0071] Meanwhile, the remote control device (200) can receive a signal transmitted by the display device (100) through the RF circuit (221), and, if necessary, can transmit commands for power on / off, channel change, volume change, etc. to the display device (100) through the IR circuit (223).

[0072] The user input interface (230) may be configured as a keypad, buttons, a touchpad, or a touch screen. The user can input commands related to the display device (100) to the remote control device (200) by operating the user input interface (230). If the user input interface (230) includes a hard key button, the user can input commands related to the display device (100) to the remote control device (200) by pushing the hard key button. This will be described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 3, the remote control device (200) may include a plurality of buttons. The plurality of buttons may include a fingerprint recognition button (212), a power button (231), a home button (232), a live button (233), an external input button (234), a volume control button (235), a voice recognition button (236), a channel change button (237), a confirmation button (238), and a back button (239).

[0074] The fingerprint recognition button (212) may be a button for recognizing a user's fingerprint. In one embodiment, the fingerprint recognition button (212) may be capable of a push operation, and may receive a push operation and a fingerprint recognition operation.

[0075] The power button (231) may be a button for turning the power of the display device (100) on / off.

[0076] The home button (232) may be a button for moving to the home screen of the display device (100).

[0077] The live button (233) may be a button for displaying a real-time broadcast program.

[0078] The external input button (234) may be a button for receiving an external input connected to the display device (100).

[0079] The volume control button (235) may be a button for adjusting the size of the volume output by the display device (100).

[0080] The voice recognition button (236) may be a button for receiving a user's voice and recognizing the received voice.

[0081] The channel change button (237) may be a button for receiving a broadcast signal of a specific broadcast channel.

[0082] The confirmation button (238) may be a button for selecting a specific function, and the back button (239) may be a button for returning to the previous screen.

[0083] Let's explain Figure 2 again.

[0084] When the user input interface (230) has a touch screen, the user can input commands related to the display device (100) using the remote control device (200) by touching the soft keys of the touch screen. In addition, the user input interface (230) may have various types of input means that can be operated by the user, such as a scroll key or a jog key, and this embodiment does not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0085] The sensor (240) may include a gyro sensor (241) or an acceleration sensor (243), and the gyro sensor (241) may sense information about the movement of the remote control device (200).

[0086] For example, the gyro sensor (241) can sense information about the operation of the remote control device (200) based on the x, y, and z axes, and the acceleration sensor (243) can sense information about the movement speed of the remote control device (200). Meanwhile, the remote control device (200) can further be equipped with a distance measuring sensor, so as to sense the distance to the display (180) of the display device (100).

[0087] The output interface (250) can output a video or audio signal corresponding to an operation of the user input interface (230) or a signal transmitted from the display device (100).

[0088] The user can recognize whether the output interface (250) is manipulating the user input interface (230) or controlling the display device (100).

[0089] For example, the output interface (250) may include an LED (251) that lights up when the user input interface (230) is operated or a signal is transmitted and received with the display device (100) via a wireless communication circuit (220), a vibrator (253) that generates vibrations, a speaker (255) that outputs sound, or a display (257) that outputs images.

[0090] In addition, the power supply circuit (260) supplies power to the remote control device (200), and reduces power waste by stopping the power supply when the remote control device (200) does not move for a predetermined period of time.

[0091] The power supply circuit (260) can resume power supply when a predetermined key provided in the remote control device (200) is operated.

[0092] The memory (270) can store various types of programs, application data, etc. required for the control or operation of the remote control device (200).

[0093] When the remote control device (200) wirelessly transmits and receives signals through the display device (100) and the RF circuit (221), the remote control device (200) and the display device (100) transmit and receive signals through a predetermined frequency band.

[0094] The controller (280) of the remote control device (200) can store and reference information regarding the frequency band, etc., that can wirelessly transmit and receive signals with the display device (100) paired with the remote control device (200), in the memory (270).

[0095] The controller (280) controls all matters related to the control of the remote control device (200). The controller (280) can transmit a signal corresponding to a predetermined key operation of the user input interface (230) or a signal corresponding to the movement of the remote control device (200) sensed by the sensor (240) to the display device (100) through the wireless communication circuit (220).

[0096] Additionally, the microphone (290) of the remote control device (200) can acquire voice.

[0097] A plurality of microphones (290) may be provided.

[0098] Next, Figure 4 is described.

[0099] Figure 4 shows an example of utilizing a remote control device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Figure 4 (a) illustrates that a pointer (205) corresponding to a remote control device (200) is displayed on a display (180).

[0101] The user can move or rotate the remote control device (200) up and down, left and right. The pointer (205) displayed on the display (180) of the display device (100) corresponds to the movement of the remote control device (200). This remote control device (200) can be called a space remote control because, as shown in the drawing, the pointer (205) moves and is displayed according to the movement in 3D space.

[0102] Figure 4 (b) illustrates that when a user moves the remote control device (200) to the left, the pointer (205) displayed on the display (180) of the display device (100) also moves to the left correspondingly.

[0103] Information about the movement of the remote control device (200) detected through the sensor of the remote control device (200) is transmitted to the display device (100). The display device (100) can calculate the coordinates of the pointer (205) from the information about the movement of the remote control device (200). The display device (100) can display the pointer (205) to correspond to the calculated coordinates.

[0104] Figure 4 (c) illustrates a case where a user moves the remote control device (200) away from the display (180) while pressing a specific button within the remote control device (200). As a result, a selection area within the display (180) corresponding to the pointer (205) can be zoomed in and displayed in an enlarged manner.

[0105] Conversely, when the user moves the remote control device (200) closer to the display (180), the selection area within the display (180) corresponding to the pointer (205) may be zoomed out and displayed in a reduced size.

[0106] Meanwhile, when the remote control device (200) moves away from the display (180), the selection area may be zoomed out, and when the remote control device (200) moves closer to the display (180), the selection area may be zoomed in.

[0107] Additionally, when a specific button within the remote control device (200) is pressed, recognition of up, down, left, and right movements may be excluded. That is, when the remote control device (200) moves away from or toward the display (180), up, down, left, and right movements may not be recognized, and only forward and backward movements may be recognized. When a specific button within the remote control device (200) is not pressed, only the pointer (205) moves in accordance with the up, down, left, and right movements of the remote control device (200).

[0108] Meanwhile, the movement speed or movement direction of the pointer (205) can correspond to the movement speed or movement direction of the remote control device (200).

[0109] Meanwhile, the pointer in this specification refers to an object displayed on the display (180) in response to the operation of the remote control device (200). Accordingly, objects of various shapes other than the arrow shape illustrated in the drawing can be used as the pointer (205). For example, the pointer may be a concept including a point, a cursor, a prompt, a thick outline, etc. In addition, the pointer (205) may be displayed corresponding to one point on the horizontal or vertical axis on the display (180), or may be displayed corresponding to multiple points such as lines or surfaces.

[0110] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 5, the electronic device (500) may include a wired communication interface (510), a network interface (520), a memory (530), an output interface (540), an input interface (550), and a processor (590).

[0112] A wired communication interface (510) can provide a connection path with an external device. The wired communication interface (510) can receive one or more images and audio output from an external device wired to an electronic device (500) and transmit the received data to a processor (590).

[0113] The wired communication interface (510) may include a plurality of external input terminals. The plurality of external input terminals may include an RGB terminal, one or more HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) terminals, and a component terminal.

[0114] The network interface (520) may provide an interface for connecting the electronic device (500) to a wired / wireless network including the Internet. The network interface (523) may transmit or receive data to or from an external device or external server via the connected network or another network linked to the connected network.

[0115] The memory (530) stores a program for each signal processing and control within the processor (590), and can store signal-processed images, voices, or data signals.

[0116] The output interface (540) may include one or more of a display that displays images processed by the processor (590) or a speaker that outputs audio processed by the processor (590).

[0117] The input interface (550) can transmit a signal input by a user to the processor (590) or transmit a signal from the processor (590) to the user. The input interface (550) can communicate with a remote control (600) or an external device via Bluetooth, Ultra Wideband (WB), ZigBee, Radio Frequency (RF) communication, or infrared (IR) communication.

[0118] The remote control (600) may be a device for controlling only the operation of the electronic device (500).

[0119] The processor (590) can control the overall operation of the electronic device (500).

[0120] The processor (590) can receive an HDMI signal from the display device (100).

[0121] The processor (590) can determine the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) based on the received HDMI signal.

[0122] The processor (590) can operate the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) in a transmission mode if the determined HDMI operation mode is not a reception mode.

[0123] The processor (590) can receive a key input signal from the remote control (600) when the operation mode of the electronic device (500) is in the receiving mode.

[0124] The processor (590) can determine whether a key input corresponding to a received key input signal is a preset key input.

[0125] The processor (590) can perform an operation corresponding to the key input signal when the key input corresponding to the received key input signal is a preset key input.

[0126] The processor (590) may ignore the key input signal if the key input corresponding to the received key input signal is not a preset key input.

[0127] The electronic device (500) may be referred to as a source device, and the display device (100) may be referred to as a sink device.

[0128] FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an operating method of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 6, the processor (590) of the electronic device (500) can receive an HDMI signal from the display device (100) (S601).

[0130] The electronic device (500) can be connected to an HDMI terminal provided in an external device interface (135) of the display device (100) through an HDMI terminal included in a wired communication interface (510).

[0131] The HDMI terminal may be an ARC (Audio Return Channel) terminal.

[0132] The HDMI signal may be an HPD signal received through the HDP (HotPlugDetection) terminal. The HPD signal can be used to check the connection status between the source device and the sink device.

[0133] The HPD signal may be either an HPD high signal (5 V) or an HPD low signal (0 V). The HPD high signal may be a signal indicating that the display device (100) is connected to the electronic device (500) and that the electronic device (500) is ready to transmit an audio / video signal. The HPD low signal may be a signal indicating that the display device (100) is connected to the electronic device (500) and that the electronic device (500) is ready to receive an audio signal.

[0134] The processor (590) can determine the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) based on the received HDMI signal (S603).

[0135] The HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) may include a transmission mode and a reception mode.

[0136] The transmission mode may be a mode in which the electronic device (500) transmits audio / video signals to the display device (100). The transmission mode may be a mode in which the electronic device (500) acts as a source device and the display device (100) acts as a sink device.

[0137] The reception mode may be a mode for receiving audio from the display device (100). The reception mode may be a mode in which the electronic device (500) acts as a sink device and the display device (100) acts as a source device. Under the reception mode, the electronic device (500) may output audio received from the display device (100). Accordingly, the reception mode may be referred to as an audio mode.

[0138] The electronic device (500) may be in a state selected as an external input of the display device (100) under transmission mode. The state in which the electronic device (500) is selected as an external input of the display device (100) may be referred to as an active state.

[0139] The electronic device (500) may be connected to the display device (100) under the receiving mode, but may not be selected as an external input of the display device (100). The state in which the electronic device (500) is not selected as an external input of the display device (100) may be referred to as an inactive state.

[0140] When the processor (590) detects an HPD high signal, it can determine the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) to be a transmission mode.

[0141] When the processor (590) detects an HPD low signal, it can determine the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) to be a reception mode.

[0142] The processor (590) can determine whether the determined HDMI operation mode is a reception mode (S605).

[0143] If the determined HDMI operation mode is not a reception mode, the processor (590) can operate the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) as a transmission mode (S607).

[0144] The electronic device (500) can transmit audio / video signals received from a content provider (CP) to the display device (100) through an HDMI interface under a transmission mode. The electronic device (500) can receive content images or CP's home screen images from the content provider through a network interface (520) and transmit the received images to the display device (100) through a wired communication interface (510).

[0145] The processor (590) can receive a key input signal from the remote control (600) when the operation mode of the electronic device (500) is in the receiving mode (S609).

[0146] The electronic device (500) can receive a key input signal from a dedicated remote control (600) of the electronic device (500). The processor (590) can receive the key input signal from the remote control (600) through the input interface (550).

[0147] The input interface (550) may include an infrared (IR) circuit and may receive an IR type key input signal from a remote control (600).

[0148] The processor (590) can determine whether the key input corresponding to the received key input signal is a preset key input (S611).

[0149] In one embodiment, the preset key input may be any one of a power key input for power control, a volume key input for volume control, or a mute key input for the mute function. However, the preset key input is merely an example and may vary depending on the user's settings or default settings.

[0150] The processor (590) can perform an operation corresponding to the key input signal if the key input corresponding to the received key input signal is a preset key input (S613).

[0151] For example, the processor (590) can turn on or off the power of the electronic device (500) based on receiving a key input signal corresponding to a power key input from the remote control (600).

[0152] As another example, the processor (590) may adjust the volume of audio output by the electronic device (500) based on receiving a key input signal corresponding to a volume key input from the remote control (600).

[0153] As another example, the processor (590) may mute the audio output of the electronic device (500) based on receiving a key input signal corresponding to a mute key input from the remote control (600).

[0154] The memory (530) may store preset key codes corresponding to each preset key input. The processor (590) may perform a function corresponding to a key input signal when the key code corresponding to the key input signal received from the remote control (600) is a preset key code stored in the memory (530).

[0155] The processor (590) can ignore the key input signal if the key input corresponding to the received key input signal is not a preset key input (S615).

[0156] The processor (590) can block the key input signal if the key code corresponding to the received key input signal is not a preset key code.

[0157] In one embodiment, the processor (590) may not perform any action if the key code corresponding to the received key input signal is not a preset key code.

[0158] In another embodiment, the processor (590) may output a key input blocking notification through the output interface (540) when it receives a key input signal corresponding to a non-preset key code a certain number of times or more.

[0159] For example, when the processor (590) receives a key input signal corresponding to a non-preset key code a certain number of times or more, it may output a sound indicating a key input blocking notification through a speaker included in the output interface (540). The user may recognize that the operation for the corresponding key input is blocked through the sound.

[0160] In another embodiment, when the processor (590) receives a key input signal corresponding to a non-preset key code a certain number of times or more, the processor (590) may transmit a guide output command that guides information about keys operable in the reception mode to the display device (100). The display device (100) may display a guide including information about keys operable in the reception mode on the display (180) through the remote control (600) according to the guide output command.

[0161] After this, when an HPD high signal is detected, the processor (590) can switch the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) from reception mode to transmission mode. The processor (590) can perform an operation corresponding to a key code, regardless of whether the key code corresponding to the key input signal received from the remote control (600) is a preset key code.

[0162] FIGS. 7 and 8 are diagrams illustrating a process of processing a key input of a remote control based on detection of an HPD signal when the electronic device is not the main external input of the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0163] The fact that the electronic device (500) is not the main external input of the display device (100) may mean that the electronic device (500) is connected to the display device (100) via the HDMI standard, but is not selected as an external input.

[0164] The processor (590) can detect an HPD signal through the HPD pin of the HDMI terminal provided in the wired communication interface (510) (HotPlug Detection). Based on detecting the HPD low signal, the processor (590) can block key inputs other than preset key inputs received from the remote control (600) (Block Input Key).

[0165] Pre-configured key inputs may include power key input, volume key input, and mute key input.

[0166] If the electronic device (500) does not block key inputs other than preset key inputs, the electronic device (500) may operate in a manner that is not desired by the user depending on the key input. As a result, the user may experience significant inconvenience in using the electronic device (500).

[0167] Accordingly, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, when the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) is the reception mode, only preset key inputs can be processed, and key inputs other than the preset key inputs can be blocked. Accordingly, malfunction of the electronic device (500) can be prevented.

[0168] The processor (590) can cancel the blocking of key inputs other than the preset key inputs received from the remote control (600) based on detecting the HPD high signal (Cancel key Block). That is, the processor (590) can cancel the function of blocking key inputs other than the preset key inputs and perform normal operation for all key inputs as before.

[0169] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an operation according to a key input of a remote control in a receiving mode of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0170] In Fig. 9, it is assumed that the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) is in the receiving mode, and that the user performs key input through a remote control (600) for controlling the electronic device (500). The remote control (600) may be a dedicated remote control for the electronic device (500).

[0171] The electronic device (500) can output audio received from the display device (100) via an HDMI terminal. In FIG. 9, the electronic device (500) can function as a sound bar.

[0172] The display device (100) may not display any image, or may display an image associated with the audio being transmitted.

[0173] The electronic device (500) can act as a streaming player that streams content images received from a content provider to a display device (100) under transmission mode.

[0174] The electronic device (500) can function as a sound bar that receives audio from the display device (100) under receiving mode.

[0175] The electronic device (500) can receive a key input signal from the remote control (600). The electronic device (500) can ignore key input signals other than the key input signals corresponding to each of the power key input, volume key input, or mute key input from the remote control (600).

[0176] The electronic device (500) can perform a function corresponding to a key input signal corresponding to a power key input, a volume key input, or a mute key input, respectively.

[0177] For example, it is assumed that an electronic device (500) receives a CP execution key input signal for entering a content provider's home screen from a remote control (600). When the electronic device (500) performs a function for the CP execution key input signal in a situation where it outputs audio received from a display device (100), the display device (100) can output the home screen image and audio of the CP received from the electronic device (500).

[0178] Accordingly, when a user is listening to audio output from an electronic device (500), the user may experience interference with the audio output due to the CP's home screen image and audio being output. The user may perceive this as a malfunction of the electronic device (500).

[0179] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the HDMI mode of the electronic device (500) is in the receiving mode, only the basic operations of the electronic device (500) can be controlled via the remote control (600), and operations other than the basic operations can be blocked. Accordingly, malfunctions of the electronic device (500) are prevented, so that the user can use the electronic device (500) without experiencing any inconvenience.

[0180] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0181] In particular, FIG. 10 is an embodiment that describes a process for determining whether to block a key input signal received from a remote control device (200) of a display device (100) rather than a dedicated remote control device (600) of an electronic device (500).

[0182] Referring to FIG. 10, the processor (590) of the electronic device (500) can receive an HDMI signal from the display device (100) (S1001).

[0183] The specific description of step S1001 is replaced with the description of step S601 of FIG. 6.

[0184] The processor (590) can determine the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) based on the received HDMI signal (S1003).

[0185] The specific description of step S1003 is replaced with the description of step S603 of FIG. 6.

[0186] The processor (590) can determine whether the determined HDMI operation mode is a reception mode (S1005).

[0187] The specific description of step S1005 is replaced with the description of step S605 of FIG. 6.

[0188] If the determined HDMI operation mode is not a reception mode, the processor (590) can operate the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) as a transmission mode (S1007).

[0189] The processor (590) can receive a conversion key code from the display device (100) when the operation mode of the electronic device (500) is in the receiving mode (S609).

[0190] The display device (100) can receive a key input signal from a remote control device (200) dedicated to the display device (100) when the HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) function is activated.

[0191] The display device (100) can convert a key code corresponding to a received key input signal to generate a converted key code. The key code corresponding to the key input signal received from the remote control device (200) may be a code in a format capable of controlling the operation of the display device (100).

[0192] The conversion key code may be a code in a format that can control the operation of an electronic device (500) while representing the same function as the key code.

[0193] The processor (590) can determine whether the received key code is a preset key code (S1011).

[0194] The preset key code can be any one of a power key code for power control, a volume key code for volume control, and a mute key code for mute control.

[0195] If the received key code is a preset key code, the processor (590) can perform an operation corresponding to the key code (S1013).

[0196] For example, if the key code is a power key code for power control, the electronic device (500) can turn the power on or off according to the power key code. At the same time, the power of the display device (100) can also be turned on or off in synchronization.

[0197] If the key code is a volume key code for power control, the electronic device (500) can increase or decrease the volume according to the volume key code.

[0198] If the key code is a mute key code for power control, the electronic device (500) can mute audio according to the mute key code.

[0199] The processor (590) can ignore the key code if the received key code is not a preset key code (S1015).

[0200] The processor (590) can block a key input signal if the key code received from the display device (100) is not a preset key code.

[0201] In one embodiment, the processor (590) may not perform any action if the received key code is not a preset key code.

[0202] In another embodiment, the processor (590) may output a key input blocking notification through the output interface (540) when it receives a non-preset key code a certain number of times or more.

[0203] For example, when the processor (590) receives a non-preset key code a certain number of times or more, it may output a sound indicating a key input blocking notification through a speaker included in the output interface (540). The user may recognize through the sound that the operation for the corresponding key input is blocked.

[0204] Thereafter, when an HPD high signal is detected, the processor (590) can switch the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) from reception mode to transmission mode. The processor (590) can perform an operation corresponding to a key code, regardless of whether the key code corresponding to the key input signal received from the remote control (600) is a preset key code.

[0205] FIG. 11 is a drawing explaining a guide provided by a display device when the HDMI operation mode of an electronic device is switched from a reception mode to a transmission mode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0206] Referring to FIG. 11, based on the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device (500) being switched from a reception mode to a transmission mode, the electronic device (500) can transmit a video signal to the display device (100). The display device (100) can display a video (1100) based on the video signal on the display (180).

[0207] The display device (100) can further display a guide (1110) containing information about keys operable under the receiving mode of the electronic device (500) on the display (180).

[0208] The guide (1110) may include text indicating that the power key, volume key, and mute key among the keys provided in the remote control (600) are operable in the reception mode of the electronic device (500). The user can easily recognize the keys operable in the reception mode of the electronic device (500) through the guide (1110).

[0209] An electronic device (500) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an input interface (550) for receiving a key input signal from a remote control (600); a wired communication interface (510) for communicating with a display device (100) through an HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) standard; and a processor (590) for determining an HDMI operation mode of the electronic device based on an HDMI signal received from the display device, receiving the key input signal from the remote control when the HDMI operation mode is determined to be a reception mode, and ignoring the received key input signal when a key input corresponding to the received key input signal is not a preset key input.

[0210] The above processor (590) can perform an operation corresponding to the key input signal when the key input corresponding to the received key input signal is the preset key input.

[0211] The above preset key input can be any one of a power key input, a volume key input, and a mute key input.

[0212] The above processor (590) can output a key input blocking notification as an audio signal when it receives a key input signal other than the preset key input more than a certain number of times.

[0213] The above processor (590) can transmit an image to the display device (100) through the wired communication interface (510) when the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device is switched from the reception mode to the transmission mode.

[0214] The above processor (590) can transmit a guide output command to the display device through the wired communication interface, which guides information about keys operable in the receiving mode.

[0215] The above processor (590) can perform an operation corresponding to the key input signal regardless of the key input corresponding to the key input signal received from the remote control under the transmission mode.

[0216] The above processor (590) can determine the HDMI operation mode as the transmission mode when the HDMI signal is an HPD (HotPlug Detection) high signal, and can determine the HDMI operation mode as the reception mode when the HDMI signal is an HPD low signal.

[0217] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the above-described method can be implemented as processor-readable code on a medium in which a program is recorded. Examples of processor-readable media include ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage devices.

[0218] The display device described above is not limited to the configuration and method of the embodiments described above, and the embodiments may be configured by selectively combining all or part of each embodiment so that various modifications can be made.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, An input interface that receives key input signals from a remote control; A wired communication interface that communicates with the display device through the HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) standard; and A processor that determines the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device based on the HDMI signal received from the display device, receives the key input signal from the remote control when the HDMI operation mode is determined to be the reception mode, and ignores the received key input signal when the key input corresponding to the received key input signal is not a preset key input. Electronic devices.

2. In paragraph 1, The above processor If the key input corresponding to the received key input signal is the preset key input, an operation corresponding to the key input signal is performed. Electronic devices.

3. In paragraph 1, The above preset key input is Press any one of the power key, volume key, or mute key. Electronic devices.

4. In paragraph 1, The above processor If a key input signal other than the preset key input is received more than a certain number of times, a key input blocking notification is output as an audio signal. Electronic devices.

5. In paragraph 1, The above processor When the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device is switched from the receiving mode to the transmitting mode, the image is transmitted to the display device through the wired communication interface. Electronic devices.

6. In paragraph 5, The above processor Transmitting a guide output command to the display device, which guides information about keys operable in the receiving mode, through the wired communication interface. Electronic devices.

7. In paragraph 5, The above processor Under the above transmission mode, regardless of the key input corresponding to the key input signal received from the remote control, an operation corresponding to the key input signal is performed. Electronic devices.

8. In paragraph 1, The above processor If the above HDMI signal is a HPD (HotPlug Detection) high signal, the HDMI operation mode is determined as the transmission mode, If the above HDMI signal is an HPD low signal, the HDMI operation mode is determined as the reception mode. Electronic devices.

9. In the method of operating an electronic device, A step of determining an HDMI operation mode of the electronic device based on an HDMI signal received from a display device; A step of receiving a key input signal from a remote control in a state where the HDMI operation mode is determined to be a reception mode; and If the key input corresponding to the received key input signal is not a preset key input, a step of ignoring the received key input signal is included. How electronic devices work.

10. In paragraph 9, If the key input corresponding to the received key input signal is the preset key input, the step of performing an operation corresponding to the key input signal is further included. How electronic devices work.

11. In paragraph 9, The above preset key input is Press any one of the power key, volume key, or mute key. How electronic devices work.

12. In paragraph 9, If a key input signal other than the preset key input is received a certain number of times or more, the step of outputting a key input blocking notification as an audible signal is further included. How electronic devices work.

13. In paragraph 9, If the HDMI operation mode of the electronic device is switched from the receiving mode to the transmitting mode, the step of transmitting the image to the display device is further included. How electronic devices work.

14. In paragraph 13, Further comprising a step of transmitting a guide output command guiding information about keys operable in the receiving mode to the display device. How electronic devices work.

15. In paragraph 13, Under the above transmission mode, further comprising a step of performing an operation corresponding to the key input signal regardless of the key input corresponding to the key input signal received from the remote control. How electronic devices work.

Images