Display device linked to sink devices

Abstract

This display device linked to sink devices comprises: a display for displaying, on a screen, a list of sink devices capable of playing back an audio stream; a wireless communication module for transmitting, to the sink devices, a wireless signal including the audio stream; and a processor for controlling the wireless communication module such that the sink devices are scanned so as to be paired therewith. The processor establishes a volume control-related connection with the sink devices so that the volume of the audio stream played back through the sink devices is controlled, and controls disconnection from at least one first sink device from among the sink devices while the audio stream is played back.

Description

Display device that interacts with sink devices

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a display device that interacts with sink devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a display device that interacts directly with sink devices without a separate mobile device.

[0002] Bluetooth ® The technology is a new feature called Auracast that allows an audio transmitter to broadcast to multiple nearby audio receivers. TM Broadcast audio has been introduced. The Auracast Broadcast feature utilizes mobile devices as broadcast assistants. In this regard, sync devices such as earbuds and headsets do not have a display capable of showing a screen.

[0003] Users of sink devices, such as earbuds and headsets, transmit PAST, which contains information from the source device, to the sink device via a mobile device, enabling the sink device to receive and play sound. In this regard, a mobile device is essential to act as an intermediary between the source device and the sink device.

[0004] A mobile device acting as an assistant in the Oracast broadcasting function scans source devices and displays their information on the screen. When a user selects the source device information displayed on the screen, the selected device information can be transmitted to the sink device. Therefore, a mobile device equipped with a display is essential for the assistant function.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to solve the aforementioned problems and other problems by providing a display device that interacts directly with sink devices without a separate mobile device.

[0006] The present disclosure is intended to support a function of playing sound output from a display device that interacts directly with sink devices without a separate mobile device on a plurality of sink devices.

[0007] The present disclosure is intended to support a function of playing sound output from a display device that interacts directly with sink devices without a separate mobile device, and controlling the volume of the sound on a plurality of sink devices.

[0008] The present disclosure is intended to support a function that enables a display device to operate as a built-in assistant, acting as an assistant for a mobile device.

[0009] The present disclosure is intended to support a method for a display device to operate as a built-in assistant to independently search for, pair, and connect sink devices without scanning source devices.

[0010] The present disclosure is for transmitting information from a source device to a selected sink device according to user selection, to sink devices capable of Auracast broadcasting.

[0011] The present disclosure is intended to enable Auracast broadcasting through volume control desired by multiple users without the need for a separate relay device by transmitting information from a source device to a selected sink device.

[0012] A display device coupled with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present specification to achieve the above or other purposes comprises: a display that displays on a screen a list of sink devices capable of playing an audio stream; a wireless communication module configured to transmit a wireless signal containing the audio stream to the sink devices; and a processor that controls the wireless communication module to scan the sink devices and pair them. The processor establishes a connection associated with volume control with the sink devices so that the volume of the audio stream played through the sink devices is controlled, and controls the disconnection of at least one first sink device among the sink devices while the audio stream is being played.

[0013] According to an embodiment, if volume control of the disconnected first sink device is required, the processor can establish a connection with the disconnected first sink device.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the processor can transmit the audio stream through a volume control channel associated with the volume control so that the paired sink devices receive the wireless signal and play the audio stream.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the processor can control the volume of audio played on the connected sink devices through the volume control channel.

[0016] According to an embodiment, when the number of sink devices connected to or attempting to connect with the display device reaches a threshold value, the processor can control the disconnection of at least one first sink device among the sink devices that does not require volume control.

[0017] According to an embodiment, when the number of sink devices reaches a threshold value and the second sink device attempts to connect, the processor can control the disconnection from at least one first sink device among the sink devices that does not require volume control.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the processor controls the broadcasting of a data stream including the audio stream and the video stream to start based on a first volume value, and after the broadcasting of the data stream starts, can scan the sink devices based on a Universal Unique Identifier (UUID). The processor can pair the sink devices by exchanging messages with the sink devices, establish a connection associated with volume control with the paired sink devices, and deliver the audio stream having a second volume value associated with the sink devices to the sink devices based on the established connection.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the processor can scan the sink devices based on a Universal Unique Identifier (UUID), exchange messages with the sink devices to pair the sink devices, and establish a connection associated with the volume control with the paired sink devices. The processor can control the initiation of broadcasting of a data stream including the audio stream and the video stream, and deliver the audio stream having a volume value based on the established connection to the sink devices.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the processor can control the initiation of broadcasting of a data stream including an audio stream and a video stream based on the set connection and a volume value associated with the sink devices.

[0021] According to an embodiment, the processor scans the sink devices to obtain a device ID and a Universal Unique Identifier (UUID), determines that sink devices with the same device ID and UUID are the same sink device, and controls the display screen to display the same sink devices as a single sink device in a discovered list. The same sink devices may be a left audio playback device and a right audio playback device capable of playing the audio stream.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the processor may receive a user request related to pairing and connecting the same sink devices. When pairing and connecting are completed for all of the same sink devices in response to the user request, the processor may control the connection list on the screen to display them as a single sink device.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the processor can simultaneously perform volume control of the left sound playback device and the right sound playback device through a volume control channel associated with the volume control.

[0024] According to an embodiment, the processor can display an initial screen associated with a UUID, scan, and broadcast in a first area, a second area, and a third area of ​​the display, control selection icons associated with the type of UUID to be displayed in the first area, control the discovery list to be displayed in the second area, and control the connection list and disconnection list to be displayed in the third area.

[0025] According to an embodiment, the processor displays the names of the sink devices that have been scanned and pairing icons in the discovery list of the second area. A stop icon capable of stopping the scanning operation is displayed in the upper area of ​​the discovery list, and when the scan cycle associated with the scan is reached, the stop icon in the upper area can be changed to a start icon capable of starting the scan again.

[0026] According to an embodiment, the processor may display the names of the sink devices that are paired and in a pre-connection state in the disconnection list of the third area, and display the names of the sink devices that have completed the connection for volume control in the connection list of the third area.

[0027] According to an embodiment, when a plurality of sink devices having the same device identifier are scanned, the processor may display a first screen on the display regarding whether to perform a group connection. When the processor receives a first user input to perform a group connection, it may simultaneously perform volume control for the plurality of sink devices through a volume control channel associated with the volume control.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the processor can determine whether the number of sink devices connected to or attempting to connect with the display device has reached a threshold value while volume control is performed on the plurality of sink devices connected to the group. If the number reaches the threshold value while volume control is performed, the processor can simultaneously perform disconnection of the plurality of sink devices connected to the group. If a third user input related to power on or power off is received from any one of the plurality of sink devices, the processor can simultaneously perform connection or disconnection of the plurality of sink devices.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the processor displays a second screen related to group control on the display for a plurality of sink devices for which scanning and connection have been performed through different processes, and upon receiving a second user input to perform the group control, can simultaneously perform volume control for the plurality of sink devices through a volume control channel associated with the volume control.

[0030] According to an embodiment, the processor can determine whether the number of sink devices connected to or attempting to connect to the display device has reached a threshold value while volume control is performed on a plurality of sink devices associated with the group control. If the number reaches the threshold value while volume control is performed, the processor can perform disconnection of a specific sink device among the plurality of sink devices associated with the group control that does not require volume control.

[0031] According to an embodiment, when a third user input associated with power on or power off is received from any one of the plurality of sink devices, the processor can simultaneously perform connection or disconnection of the plurality of sink devices.

[0032] According to the present specification, this can be provided through a display device that interacts directly with sink devices without a separate mobile device. In this regard, the broadcast assistant function of a mobile device, which was essential for transmitting sound from a source device to sink devices, is incorporated into the source device so that the sink device can be directly connected to the source device to receive and play sound without a separate relay device.

[0033] According to the present specification, a function to play sound output from a display device that interacts directly with sink devices without a separate mobile device on a plurality of sink devices may be supported.

[0034] According to the present specification, a function to play sound output from a display device that interacts directly with sink devices without a separate mobile device and to control the volume of the sound on a plurality of sink devices may be supported.

[0035] According to the present specification, a function can be supported to enable a display device to operate as a built-in assistant, thereby acting as an assistant for a mobile device.

[0036] According to the present specification, the display device operates as a built-in assistant so that it can independently search for, pair, and connect sink devices without scanning source devices.

[0037] According to the present specification, sink devices capable of Oracast broadcasting can transmit information from a source device to a selected sink device according to user selection.

[0038] According to the present specification, information from a source device is transmitted to a selected sink device, allowing Oracast broadcasting to be implemented through volume control desired by multiple users without the need for a separate relay device.

[0039] According to the present specification, a plurality of sink devices can be simultaneously connected through a source device without a plurality of relay devices for a plurality of sink devices.

[0040] According to the present specification, compared to conventional Bluetooth functions, it is possible to receive sound by connecting multiple sink devices and enable optimal volume control for each sink device.

[0041] According to the present specification, the limitation on the number of sink devices that can be connected can be overcome while implementing a built-in assistant in an Auracast broadcast. In this regard, the limitation on the number of sink devices that can be connected can be overcome by adding an operation to disconnect the sink device until a connection is established between the source / sink devices and a volume change occurs.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining a content server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a content provision system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIGS. 4a and 4b show a flowchart between a display device and a sink device that interacts with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 5 shows a flowchart related to the operation of an electronic device transmitting device information of an audio source to a sink device.

[0047] Figure 6 shows a configuration in which a list of searched sink devices is displayed on the screen of a display device.

[0048] Figure 7 shows a flowchart of a method for performing disconnection for volume control for a specific sink device that does not require volume control.

[0049] Figure 8 shows an operation flowchart for the common control of the sink devices of the left and right sound playback devices.

[0050] Figure 9 shows a screen in which the sink devices of the left and right sound playback devices are paired as the same sink device.

[0051] Figure 10 shows a configuration in which a list of connected sink devices is displayed on the screen of a display device.

[0052] Figure 11 shows a configuration in which a list of sink devices capable of volume control in a connected state is displayed on the screen of a display device.

[0053] Figure 12 shows a configuration in which a list of disconnected sink devices is displayed on the screen of a display device.

[0054] Figure 13 shows a configuration in which a list of unpaired sink devices is displayed on the screen of a display device.

[0055] FIG. 14 shows an operation flowchart for group control of multiple sink devices.

[0056] It should be noted that technical terms used in this specification are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. Additionally, singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The suffixes "module" and "part" for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the ease of drafting the specification and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles.

[0057] In this specification, terms such as "composed of" or "comprising" should not be interpreted as necessarily including all of the various components or steps described in the specification, and should be interpreted as potentially excluding some of the components or steps, or including additional components or steps.

[0058] In addition, when describing the technology disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art could obscure the essence of the technology disclosed in this specification, such detailed description is omitted.

[0059] In addition, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings; it should be understood that they include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the concept and technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, not only each of the embodiments described below, but also combinations of embodiments may fall within the concept and technical scope of the present invention as modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the concept and technical scope of the present invention.

[0060] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0061] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a display device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 1, the display device (100) may include a broadcast receiver (130), an external device interface unit (135), a storage unit (140), a user input interface unit (150), a processor (170), a wireless communication unit (173), a voice acquisition unit (175), a display (180), an audio output unit (185), and a power supply unit (190).

[0063] The broadcast receiving unit (130) may include a tuner (131), a demodulating unit (132), and a network interface unit (133).

[0064] The tuner (131) can tune to a specific broadcast channel according to a channel tuning command. The tuner (131) can receive a broadcast signal for the tuned specific broadcast channel.

[0065] 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.

[0066] The network interface unit (133) may provide an interface for connecting the display device (100) to a wired / wireless network including the Internet network. The network interface unit (133) may transmit or receive data to or from other users or other electronic devices through the connected network or another network linked to the connected network.

[0067] The network interface unit (133) can access a specific web page through a connected network or another network linked to the connected network. That is, it can access a specific web page through a network and transmit or receive data with the corresponding server.

[0068] In addition, the network interface unit (133) can receive content or data provided by a content provider or network operator. That is, the network interface unit (133) can receive content such as movies, advertisements, games, VOD, broadcast signals, and related information provided by a content provider or network provider through a network.

[0069] Additionally, the network interface unit (133) can receive firmware update information and update files provided by the network operator, and can transmit data to the internet, content provider, or network operator.

[0070] The network interface unit (133) can select and receive a desired application among the applications that are open to the public through the network.

[0071] The external device interface unit (135) can receive an application or a list of applications within an adjacent external device and transmit it to a processor (170) or a storage unit (140).

[0072] The external device interface section (135) can provide a connection path between the display device (100) and an external device. The external device interface section (135) can receive one or more of video and audio output from an external device connected to the display device (100) wirelessly or via a wired connection, and transmit them to the processor (170). The external device interface section (135) 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.

[0073] The video signal of an external device input through the external device interface unit (135) can be output through the display (180). The audio signal of an external device input through the external device interface unit (135) can be output through the audio output unit (185).

[0074] The external device that can be connected to the external device interface section (135) may be any one of a set-top box, Blu-ray player, DVD player, game console, soundbar, smartphone, PC, USB memory, or home theater, but this is merely an example.

[0075] In addition, some of the content data stored in the display device (100) can be transmitted to another user or other electronic device selected among other users or other electronic devices that are previously registered in the display device (100).

[0076] The storage unit (140) can store programs for each signal processing and control within the processor (170), and can store signal-processed video, audio, or data signals.

[0077] Additionally, the storage unit (140) may perform the function of temporarily storing video, audio, or data signals input from the external device interface unit (135) or the network interface unit (133), and may also store information regarding a predetermined image through a channel memory function.

[0078] The storage unit (140) can store an application or a list of applications input from an external device interface unit (135) or a network interface unit (133).

[0079] The display device (100) can play content files (video files, still image files, music files, document files, application files, etc.) stored in the storage unit (140) and provide them to the user.

[0080] The user input interface unit (150) can transmit a signal input by the user to the processor (170) or transmit a signal from the processor (170) to the user. For example, the user input interface unit (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 to transmit a control signal from the processor (170) to the remote control device (200).

[0081] Additionally, the user input interface unit (150) can transmit control signals input from local keys (not shown), such as power key, channel key, volume key, and setting value, to the processor (170).

[0082] The image signal processed by the processor (170) can be input to the display (180) and displayed as an image corresponding to the image signal. Additionally, the image signal processed by the processor (170) can be input to an external output device through the external device interface section (135).

[0083] The voice signal processed by the processor (170) can be output as audio to the audio output unit (185). Additionally, the voice signal processed by the processor (170) can be input to an external output device through the external device interface unit (135).

[0084] In addition, the processor (170) can control the overall operation within the display device (100).

[0085] Additionally, the processor (170) can control the display device (100) by means of user commands or internal programs input through the user input interface unit (150). The processor (170) can connect to a network to enable the user to download desired applications or application lists into the display device (100). The processor (170) may be configured to execute at least one application program to control the display device (100). A first application program (10) may execute to determine whether a specific content has been purchased, played, refunded, or resold based on the viewing history and playback time of the specific content. A second application program (20) may execute to store and manage information regarding the playback history and playback time of the specific content.

[0086] The processor (170) enables the processed video or audio signal, such as channel information selected by the user, to be output through the display (180) or audio output unit (185).

[0087] Additionally, the processor (170) enables a video signal or audio signal from an external device, such as a camera or camcorder, input through the external device interface (135) according to an external device video playback command received through the user input interface (150), to be output through the display (180) or audio output (185).

[0088] Meanwhile, the processor (170) can control the display (180) to display video, for example, broadcast video input through the tuner (131), external input video input through the external device interface unit (135), video input through the network interface unit, or video stored in the storage unit (140) can be controlled to be displayed on the display (180). In this case, the video displayed on the display (180) may be a still image or a video, and may be a 2D image or a 3D image.

[0089] Additionally, the processor (170) can control the playback of content stored in the display device (100), received broadcast content, or external input content input from the outside, and the content may be in various forms such as broadcast video, external input video, audio file, still image, connected web screen, and document file.

[0090] The wireless communication unit (173) may be composed of a wireless communication module that performs communication with an external device via wireless communication. The wireless communication unit (173) may be coupled with a wired communication interface to perform wired communication. The wireless communication unit (173) may perform short-range communication with an external device. To this end, the wireless communication unit (173) may support short-range communication by using at least one of the following technologies: Bluetooth™, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), 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). Such wireless communication unit (173) can support wireless communication between a display device (100) and a wireless communication system, between a display device (100) and another display device (100), or between a display device (100) and a network where a display device (100, or an external server) is located, through a wireless area network. The wireless area network may be a wireless personal area network.

[0091] Here, another display device (100) may be a wearable device (e.g., a smartwatch, smart glass, head-mounted display, or mobile terminal such as a smartphone) capable of exchanging (or interacting with) data with the display device (100) according to the present invention. A wireless communication unit (173) may detect (or recognize) a wearable device capable of communicating around the display device (100). Furthermore, if the detected wearable device is an authenticated device to communicate with the display device (100) according to the present invention, the processor (170) may transmit at least a portion of the data processed in the display device (100) to the wearable device through the wireless communication unit (173). Accordingly, the user of the wearable device may use the data processed in the display device (100) through the wearable device.

[0092] The voice acquisition unit (175) can acquire audio. The voice acquisition unit (175) may include at least one microphone (not shown) and can acquire audio around the display device (100) through the microphone (not shown).

[0093] The display (180) can generate a driving signal by converting the video signal, data signal, OSD signal processed by the processor (170) or the video signal, data signal, etc. received from the external device interface unit (135) into R, G, and B signals, respectively.

[0094] 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 actual implemented display device (100).

[0095] That is, as needed, two or more components may be combined into a single component, or a single component may be subdivided into two or more components. In addition, the functions performed in each block are intended to explain embodiments of the present invention, and the specific operations or devices do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0096] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining a content server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] The content server (300) can provide a recommendation service that recommends content that a viewer using the display device (100) may prefer.

[0098] The content server (300) may include a communication interface (310), memory (320), and a processor (330).

[0099] The content server (300) can transmit and receive data to and from at least one display device (100) via wired or wireless communication through the communication interface (310).

[0100] The memory (320) may include a content information database (321). The content information database (321) may store information related to content played on each device. For example, the content information database (321) may store content playback information, content setting information, or application installation information in association with the identification information of each device.

[0101] When the processor (330) receives a content recommendation request from a display device (100) or an external device, it can recommend content optimized for each device based on data stored in the content information database (321).

[0102] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a content provision system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] The content provision system (1000) may include at least one display device (100), at least one remote control device (200), and a content server (300).

[0104] The processor (170) of the display device (100) can play content.

[0105] Additionally, the processor (170) can generate content playback information regarding the played content. Additionally, the processor (170) can generate content setting information, which is information regarding the quality, volume, and preferred channel status set when playing the content.

[0106] Content playback information may include at least one of content identification information, content genre information, content playback start time information, content playback end time information, and content total playback time information for the played content.

[0107] The content setting information may include at least one of the quality information set for the content when playing the content, volume information, and preferred channel information regarding whether the user has registered the channel providing the content as a preferred channel.

[0108] The processor (170) can transmit device identification information of the display device (100), generated content playback information, and generated content setting information to the content server (300) through a communication interface. The device identification information may be unique identification information for distinguishing it from other devices.

[0109] The content server (300) can store content playback information and content setting information received from the display device (100) in the content information database (321) in association with device identification information.

[0110] Meanwhile, the processor (170) can receive a content recommendation command through the user input interface unit (150) or the voice acquisition unit (175).

[0111] When the processor (170) receives a content recommendation command, it can transmit device identification information of the display device (100) and a content recommendation request to the content server (300) through a communication interface.

[0112] The communication interface (310) of the content server (300) can receive device identification information and a content recommendation request from the display device (100).

[0113] The processor (330) of the content server (300) can obtain content playback information and content setting information associated with the display device (100) from the content information database (321) based on device identification information.

[0114] The processor (330) can generate content recommendation information and recommendation setting information for the display device (100) based on content playback information and content setting information. The content recommendation information may include recommended content identification information and recommended content genre information for at least one recommended content. Additionally, the recommendation setting information may include recommended image quality setting information and preferred channel information.

[0115] The processor (330) can transmit content recommendation information and recommendation setting information to the display device (100) through the communication interface (310).

[0116] The processor (170) can receive content recommendation information and recommendation setting information from the content server (300) through a communication interface.

[0117] The processor (170) can display at least one recommended content based on the received content recommendation information. Additionally, when a playback command for the recommended content is input through the user input interface unit (150) or the voice acquisition unit (175), the processor (170) can set the quality of the recommended content to be played based on the received recommendation setting information and play it.

[0118] The quality of recommended content is set for playback, and if a user requests a change to a preferred channel, a channel change to the preferred channel can be performed based on the preferred channel information.

[0119] Meanwhile, the display device (100) can mirror the content currently being played to an external device. The external device may include another display device or a mobile device. In this case, the mirrored content can be viewed through the external device. Therefore, viewing information regarding the mirrored content needs to serve as basic data for recommending content to the external device.

[0120] Meanwhile, when the display device (100) performs a mirroring operation to an external device, it may receive a control command from the external device to control the display device (100). The control command may include a content change command to change the content being played from the first content to the second content. When the display device (100) receives the content change command, it may play the changed content. In this case, the display device (100) needs to transmit content playback information regarding the changed content to the content server (300) as information for content recommendation to the external device.

[0121] Hereinafter, the operation of a display device coupled with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present disclosure will be described. In this regard, FIGS. 4a and 4b show a flowchart between a display device coupled with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to embodiments and a sink device.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 4a, a scan (S110), pairing (S120), and volume control connection (S130) can be performed between the audio source, the display device (100), and the sink devices (200). Subsequently, broadcasting start (S131) ​​and audio stream playback (S135) can be performed from the display device (100) to the sink devices (200).

[0123] In this regard, after the broadcast is started (S131), a scan (S110), pairing (S120), and volume control connection (S130) may be performed between the display device (100) and the sink devices (200). Referring to FIG. 4b, the start of the broadcast (S131) ​​and the playback of the audio stream (S135) may be performed from the display device (100), which is the audio source, to the sink devices (200). Subsequently, a scan (S110), pairing (S120), and volume control connection (S130) may be performed between the display device (100) and the sink devices (200).

[0124] With reference to FIGS. 4a and 4b, the operation of a display device coupled with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present disclosure will be described.

[0125] A display device (100) that is an audio source can scan sink devices (200) (S110) and control the audio source to be paired with the scanned sink devices (200) (S120). The display device (100) that is an audio source can scan sink devices (200) based on a universally unique identifier (UUID) (S110). A universally unique identifier (UUID) is an identifier according to a standard for creating identifiers that are guaranteed to be unique on a network.

[0126] The display device (100) scans the sink devices (200) based on a universal unique identifier (UUID) (S110) to enable a volume control service (VCS) and a broadcast audio scan service (BASS). Additionally, by scanning the sink devices (200) (S110), a public broadcast audio stream and a broadcast as a service (BAAS) are possible.

[0127] Broadcast information transmitted from the audio source display device (100) to the sink devices (200) is transmitted periodically so that synchronization between the display device (100) and the sink devices (200) can be achieved.

[0128] In this regard, the broadcast information transmitted to the sink devices (200) may be PAST (periodic advertising sync transfer) information for improving notification cycle synchronization and power efficiency in scanner devices. Meanwhile, the broadcast audio transmitted from the display device (100), which is the audio source, may be Auracast based on Bluetooth. The broadcast information transmitted to the sink devices (200) may be GATT (Generic Attribute Profile) information, which is an attribute transmission protocol for improving caching efficiency of attribute tables, etc., during the connection process. GATT information defines a method for exchanging profiles and data through a BLE (Bluetooth low energy) connection.

[0129] Since broadcast information such as PAST and / or GATT is transmitted to the sink devices (200) while scanning (S110) the sink devices (200), there is no need to separately transmit broadcast information such as PAST and / or GATT after the broadcast starts (S131). In this regard, FIG. 5 shows a flowchart related to the operation of an electronic device transmitting device information of an audio source to a sink device.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 5, the display device (100) can start an Auracast broadcast (S131) ​​and receive an advertisement from the electronic device (400) (S132). The electronic device (400) can be referred to as a broadcast assistant because it supports a broadcast connection between the display device (100) and the sink devices (200). The electronic device (400) can transmit PAST information to the sink devices (200) (S133). The PAST information may include information about the source device so that the audio stream can be heard. Accordingly, the sink devices (200) can receive the audio stream from the electronic device (400) (S135) and play the audio stream.

[0131] Since Fig. 5 does not transmit broadcast information such as PAST and / or GATT during the scanning process, broadcast information such as PAST and / or GATT must be transmitted separately after the broadcast starts (S131). Therefore, after the broadcast starts (S131), PAST information containing information about the source device must be received through a separate electronic device (400) rather than the source device, the display device (100).

[0132] On the other hand, referring to FIGS. 4a and 4b, the audio source display device (100) can perform a pairing process (S120) after scanning (S110) the sink devices (200) while transmitting broadcast information. Thus, the audio source display device (100) can be paired (S120) with the scanned sink devices (200). The audio source display device (100) can establish a connection (S130) associated with volume control with the sink devices (200) so that the volume of the audio stream played through the sink devices (200) is controlled.

[0133] The audio source can start an Auracast broadcast (S131) ​​by interacting with the internal modules of the display device (100). Accordingly, an audio stream from the display device (100), which is the audio source, is transmitted to the sink devices (200) (S135), so that the sink devices (200) can play the audio stream. The internal modules of the display device (100) may be software / hardware modules that interact with the audio output unit (185) of FIG. 1, which can play the audio stream.

[0134] When the audio stream is transmitted to the sink devices (200) (S135), the LC3 codec can also be transmitted to the sink devices (200). Through the LC3 codec, adaptive control between the sound quality and latency of the audio stream played through the BLE connection is possible.

[0135] Meanwhile, a display device coupled with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present disclosure can display the scanned sink devices on a screen through a scanning operation. In this regard, FIG. 6 shows a configuration in which a list of searched sink devices is displayed on the screen of a display device.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 6, an initial screen associated with a UUID, scan, and broadcast may be displayed in the first, second, and third areas of the display (180). The first area (180R1), second area (180R2), and third area (180R3) of the display (180) may be the left, center, and right areas of the display (180). The second area (180R2) and third area (180R3) associated with scan and broadcast may be configured to be wider in one axial direction than the first area (180R1) associated with the UUID so that device information and at least one icon are displayed.

[0137] Selection icons related to the type of UUID can be controlled to be displayed in the first area (180R1) of the display (180). A discovered list can be controlled to be displayed in the second area (180R2) of the display (180). A connected list and a disconnected list can be displayed in the third area (180R3) of the display (180). Meanwhile, since information regarding UUIDs is not useful to general users, it can be configured so that it is exposed to developers on the screen during the development process but not to general users.

[0138] By selecting a list of LE audio-related UUIDs listed in the first area (180R1) of the display (180), sink devices (200) containing the corresponding UUID can be searched. Meanwhile, a service UUID associated with a device to be connected can be searched by the user directly entering a UUID. The search can be performed in an “OR” format. For example, a device containing the UUID value 0x1852 can be searched, or a device containing the UUID value 0x1856 can be searched, or a device containing the UUID value 0x1860 can be searched.

[0139] The names of the scanned sink devices and pairing icons can be displayed in the discovery list of the second area (180R2) of the display (180). A stop icon (181a) that can stop the scanning of sink devices can be displayed in the top area of ​​the discovery list. When the scan cycle associated with the scan is reached, the stop icon (181a) in the top area can be changed to a start icon that can start scanning again. If the start icon is selected without a UUID value being selected, a device search can be performed on all values ​​in the UUID list.

[0140] Meanwhile, a display device coupled with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present disclosure can perform disconnection for volume control for a specific sink device that does not require volume control during audio stream playback. In this regard, FIG. 7 shows a flowchart of a method for performing disconnection for volume control for a specific sink device that does not require volume control.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 4a and FIGS. 7, scanning (S110), pairing (S120), volume control connection (S130), broadcast start (S131), and audio stream playback (S135) can be performed between the audio source, which is a display device (100), and the sink devices (200). In this regard, after the broadcast is started (S131), scanning (S110), pairing (S120), and volume control connection (S130) can be performed between the display device (100) and the sink devices (200).

[0142] In this regard, after the broadcast is started (S131), a scan (S110), pairing (S120), and volume control connection (S130) may be performed between the display device (100) and the sink devices (200). Referring to FIG. 4b and FIG. 7, the start of the broadcast (S131) ​​and the playback of the audio stream (S135) may be performed from the display device (100), which is the audio source, to the sink devices (200). Subsequently, a scan (S110), pairing (S120), and volume control connection (S130) may be performed between the display device (100) and the sink devices (200).

[0143] Referring to FIGS. 4a, 4b and FIG. 7, after a volume control connection (S130) is performed, the audio source display device (100) can transmit an audio stream (S135) through a volume control channel associated with volume control. Accordingly, the paired sink devices (200) can receive a wireless signal from the display device (100) and play the audio stream.

[0144] After audio stream playback (S135) is performed, disconnection (S140) between the audio source, the display device (100), and the sink device (200) may be performed. The display device (100) may control (S140) the disconnection with at least one first sink device (200a) among the sink devices (200) while the audio stream is being played.

[0145] In this regard, Auracast Broadcast has no limit on the number of sink devices that listen to and play sound from source devices. However, with the addition of the Assistant Built-In feature, a limit on the number of sink devices arises because a connection must be maintained for volume control. To prevent this issue, some sink devices connected to listen to and play sound can be switched from a connected state to a disconnected state to allow new sink devices to be connected to the sink devices in a limited manner.

[0146] If it is determined that volume control is necessary, the display device (100) can control the sink devices (200) so that a connection is established between the audio source, the display device (100), and the sink devices (200). If volume control of the disconnected first sink device (200a) is necessary, the display device (100) can establish a connection (S150) with the disconnected first sink device (200a).

[0147] The connected sink devices (200) can transmit a request for volume control of audio to the display device (100) (S155). The display device (100) can perform volume control of the audio being played on the connected sink devices (200) through a volume control channel (S160). In this regard, the display device (100) can transmit a control command associated with volume control to the sink devices (200) (S160).

[0148] Therefore, if volume control is required for a sink device, the sink device requiring volume control can be reconnected to the source device to enable volume control. Thus, it is possible to overcome the limitation on the number of sink devices that can be simultaneously connected to the source device.

[0149] In this regard, since a reconnection must be performed to adjust the volume, it may take longer than when the connection is continuously maintained. However, if the Oracast broadcast has not yet started, the time required for disconnecting and reconnecting is not an issue. Meanwhile, during the Oracast broadcast, the issue of additional time can be resolved by performing the disconnection in advance for some devices where volume control has already been completed during a time frame when video / audio data is not actually transmitted.

[0150] With reference to FIGS. 1 through 7 in relation to the aforementioned operations, a display device that interacts with a server in a content provision system according to the present disclosure will be described. In this regard, the display device (100) according to the present disclosure may be configured to include a processor (170), a wireless communication unit (173), and a display (180).

[0151] The display (180) may be configured to display a list of sink devices (200) capable of playing an audio stream on the screen. The wireless communication unit (173) may be configured to transmit a wireless signal containing an audio stream to the sink devices (200). The processor (170) may control the wireless communication unit (173) to scan (S110) the sink devices (200) and pair them (S120). The processor (170) may control the wireless communication unit (173) so that the audio output unit (185) of the display device (100) pairs (S120) with the sink devices (200).

[0152] The processor (170) may be configured to establish a connection (S130) associated with volume control with the sink devices (200) so that the volume of the audio stream played through the sink devices (200) is controlled. The processor (170) may control (S140) disconnecting from at least one first sink device (200a) among the sink devices (200) while the audio stream is being played. If volume control of the disconnected first sink device (200a) is required, the processor (170) may establish a connection (S150) with the disconnected first sink device (200a).

[0153] The processor (170) can transmit an audio stream (S135) through a volume control channel associated with volume control so that the paired sink devices (200) receive a wireless signal and play an audio stream. The processor (170) can perform volume control of the audio being played on the connected sink devices (200) through the volume control channel (S160). In this regard, the connected sink devices (200) can transmit a request for volume control of the audio to the audio source of the display device (100) or to the processor (170) controlling it.

[0154] Meanwhile, the processor (170) can transmit an audio stream (S135) in conjunction with the mobile terminal (500) after starting the broadcast (S131). In this regard, it can receive an advertisement message from the mobile terminal (500). In response to the receipt of the advertisement message, the processor (170) can control the mobile terminal (500) to transmit information about a source device capable of playing the audio stream to a plurality of sink devices (200). The processor (170) can search for sink devices capable of playing the audio stream in conjunction with the mobile terminal. The processor (170) can transmit the audio stream output from the display device (100) to the searched sink devices.

[0155] The processor (170) can determine whether the number of sink devices (200) connected to or attempting to connect with the display device (100) has reached a threshold value. If the number of sink devices (200) connected or attempting to connect has reached a threshold value, the processor (170) can control (S140) the disconnection with at least one first sink device (200a) among the sink devices that does not require volume control.

[0156] The processor (170) can determine whether the second sink device (200b) attempts to connect when the number of sink devices (200) reaches a threshold value. The processor (170) can control (S140) disconnection with at least one first sink device (200a) among the sink devices (200) that does not require volume control.

[0157] Meanwhile, a display device coupled with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present disclosure can perform common control by setting the sink devices as the same device. In this regard, FIG. 8 shows an operation flowchart for the common control of the sink devices of the left and right audio playback devices. FIG. 9 shows a screen in which the sink devices of the left and right audio playback devices are paired as the same sink device.

[0158] Referring to FIGS. 4a and FIGS. 8, scanning (S110), pairing (S120), volume control connection (S130), broadcast start (S131), and audio stream playback (S135) can be performed between the audio source, the display device (100), and the sink devices (200). Following audio stream playback (S135), a volume control request (S155) can be transmitted from the sink devices (200) to the display device (100). In response to the volume control request, the display device (100) can transmit a control command associated with volume control to the sink devices (200) (S160).

[0159] In this regard, after the broadcast is started (S131), a scan (S110), pairing (S120), and volume control connection (S130) may be performed between the display device (100) and the sink devices (200). Referring to FIGS. 4b and FIGS. 8, the start of the broadcast (S131) ​​and the playback of the audio stream (S135) may be performed from the display device (100), which is the audio source, to the sink devices (200). Subsequently, a scan (S110), pairing (S120), and volume control connection (S130) may be performed between the display device (100) and the sink devices (200). Following the volume control connection (S130), a volume control request may be transmitted (S155) from the sink devices (200) to the display device (100). In response to a volume control request, the display device (100) can transmit a control command associated with volume control to the sink devices (200) (S160).

[0160] Referring to FIGS. 4a, FIGS. 4b and FIG. 8, between scanning (S110) and pairing (S120) of the sink devices (200), it can be determined (S111) whether the sink devices (200) are the same device. In this regard, the audio source display device (100) can determine (S111) that the sink devices with the same device ID and UUID are the same sink device.

[0161] Audio playback devices such as earbuds have an issue where the left and right devices are detected separately, requiring the user to establish a connection for each. Among the detected devices, if the scanned UUID values ​​of devices with the same device name match, they can be determined to be the same device.

[0162] Devices identified as identical in the discovery list can be displayed to the user under a single device name, rather than separately for the left and right channels. If the user wishes to connect to the device, a pairing and connection request is made for each channel; once both devices are connected, they can be displayed as a single device in the connection list. To address this issue, a method for simultaneously pairing and connecting the left and right audio playback devices capable of playing audio streams is described.

[0163] Referring to FIGS. 6, 8, and 9, identical sink devices may be displayed as a single sink device in the discovered list on the screen of the display (180). In this regard, the identical sink devices may be a left audio playback device and a right audio playback device capable of playing an audio stream. For example, the identical sink devices may be a left earbud (or left headphone device) and a right earbud (or right headphone device) capable of playing an audio stream. The sink devices (earbuds) that are paired (S110) and determined to be identical sink devices (S111) are in a state prior to being connected to the display device (100).

[0164] In the discovered list of the second area (180R2), discovered devices may be found. For example, a left earbud (or left headphone device) and a right earbud (or right headphone device) may each be found. In this regard, the device's unique MAC address may be found, but a random MAC address may also be found; however, the random MAC address may not be displayed in the discovered list of the second area (180R2), and only the device's unique MAC address may be displayed.

[0165]

[0166] When the start icon (181b) labeled "Start Scan" is selected, it changes to the stop icon labeled "Stop Scan" and the scan operation can be performed for a certain period of time. For example, the scan operation can be performed for about 60 seconds. After 60 seconds, the scan operation is stopped and the icon changes back to "Stop Scan".

[0167] When the pairing button in the second area (180R2) is selected for the discovered device, a pairing request for the discovered device may be made. When pairing for the discovered device is completed, the device information may be moved from the discovery list in the second area (180R2) to the disconnected list in the third area (180R3).

[0168] The status of a current device that is paired but not yet connected can be set to 'disconnected'. In this regard, a pairedDeviceList.json file can be created to store information about paired devices as the current device's status. Information about paired devices can be updated via the path / var / lib / bluetooth-audio.

[0169] As described above, the names of sink devices determined to be identical sink devices (S111) may be displayed in the disconnected list of the third area (180R3). The names of sink devices that are paired and in a pre-connection state may be displayed in the disconnected list of the third area (180R3) of the display (180). A first button (182a) and a second button (182b) may be placed adjacent to the area where the names of the sink devices displayed in the disconnected list of the third area (180R3) are displayed. When the first button (182a) is selected, the sink device (200) paired with the display device (100) may be switched to a connected state. When the second button (182b) is selected, the pairing of the sink device (200) paired with the display device (100) may be unpaired.

[0170] With reference to FIGS. 1 through 9, a display device that interacts with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present disclosure is described. A processor (170) may be configured to scan (S110) sink devices (200) to obtain a device ID and a universal unique identifier (UUID). The processor (170) may be configured to determine (S111) that sink devices with the same device ID and UUID are the same sink device. The processor (170) may control the display (180) to display the same sink devices as a single sink device in a discovered list on the screen. In this regard, the same sink devices may be a left audio playback device and a right audio playback device capable of playing an audio stream. For example, the same sink devices may be a left earbud (or left headphone device) and a right earbud (or right headphone device) capable of playing an audio stream.

[0171] The processor (170) may be configured to receive user requests related to pairing and connecting identical sink devices. In response to the user request, the processor (170) may determine whether pairing (S120) and connecting (S130) have been completed for all identical sink devices. When pairing (S120) and connecting (S130) have been completed for all identical sink devices, the processor (170) may control them to be displayed as a single sink device in the connected list on the screen. The processor (170) may simultaneously perform volume control of the left audio playback device and the right audio playback device through a volume control channel associated with volume control (S160).

[0172] Meanwhile, a display device coupled with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present disclosure can perform scanning, pairing, connecting, and disconnecting of the sink devices through a screen. In this regard, FIG. 10 shows a configuration in which a list of sink devices in a connected state is displayed on the screen of the display device.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 10, a connection request may be made for a paired device. Once the connection is completed in accordance with the connection request, a VC Connect request for volume control may be made, limited to VCS-supported devices. When VC Connect is completed, device information may be moved from the disconnected list to the connected list. The status of the device may be changed to “connected”. Meanwhile, the pairedDeviceList.json file may also be updated along with the device status.

[0174] The names of the connected sink devices for volume control may be displayed in the connected list of the third area (180R3). Multiple buttons (183a, 183b, 183c, 183d) may be placed adjacent to the names of the sink devices. When the first button (183a) is selected, the connection to the connected sink devices is disconnected. When the second button (183b) is selected, the pairing to the connected sink devices is unpaired. When the third button (183c) is selected, the volume of the audio stream delivered to the connected sink devices may be increased. When the fourth button (183d) is selected, the volume of the audio stream delivered to the connected sink devices may be decreased.

[0175] Figure 11 shows a configuration in which a list of sink devices capable of volume control in a connected state is displayed on the screen of a display device.

[0176] Referring to FIG. 11, the VCS-supported device can increase or decrease the volume of the output sound through the third button (183c) or the fourth button (183d). The default volume may differ for each device, and volume control is possible for each connected device.

[0177] By selecting the third button (183c) or the fourth button (183d), the volume of the audio stream delivered to the connected sink devices can be increased or decreased. Meanwhile, a fifth button (183e) and a sixth button (183f) may be provided at the bottom of the third area (180R3) of the display (180). By selecting the fifth button (183e) or the sixth button (183f), the volume of the audio stream delivered to the connected sink devices can be increased or decreased by a specific unit (e.g., 3).

[0178] Figure 12 shows a configuration in which a list of disconnected sink devices is displayed on the screen of a display device.

[0179] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, when the first button (183a) for disconnecting a connected device is selected, information containing an identifier for the device can be moved to a disconnected list. The status of the device can be changed to “disconnected”. Meanwhile, the pairedDeviceList.json file can also be updated along with the device status.

[0180] When a specific sink device that does not require volume control is disconnected, it may be displayed in the disconnection list of the third area (180R3) of the display (180). A first button (182a) and a second button (182b) may be displayed adjacent to the area where the name of the specific sink device disconnected from the display device (100) is displayed. When the first button (182a) is selected, the disconnected specific sink device may be switched back to a connected state. Thus, a connection to the specific sink device may be established by selecting the first button (182a). When the second button (182b) is selected, the disconnected specific sink device may be switched to an unpaired state.

[0181] Figure 13 shows a configuration in which a list of unpaired sink devices is displayed on the screen of a display device.

[0182] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, when the second button (182b) for unpairing, marked "Unpair" for a discovered device, is selected, the information about the device is deleted from the connected list and the disconnected list. Meanwhile, an update can be performed in the pairedDeviceList.json file to delete the information about the device.

[0183] When the second button (183b) is selected, a specific disconnected sink device may be switched to an unpaired state. As it is switched to an unpaired state, the name of the specific sink device displayed in the disconnection list of the third area (180R3) may be displayed in the discovery list of the second area (180R2).

[0184] With reference to FIGS. 1 through 9, a screen configuration displayed on the screen of a display as a display device according to the present disclosure scans sink devices is described. A processor (170) may display an initial screen associated with a UUID, scan, and broadcast in a first area, a second area, and a third area of ​​a display (180). The first area, the second area, and the third area of ​​the display (180) may be the left, center, and right areas of the display (170). The second area and the third area associated with scan and broadcast may be configured to be wider in one axial direction than the first area associated with the UUID so that device information and at least one icon are displayed.

[0185] Selection icons related to the type of UUID can be controlled to be displayed in the first area of ​​the display (180). A discovered list can be controlled to be displayed in the second area of ​​the display (180). A connected list and a disconnected list can be controlled to be displayed in the third area of ​​the display (180).

[0186] The processor (170) can display the names of the scanned sink devices and pairing icons in the discovery list of the second area. The processor (170) can display a stop icon (181a) in the top area of ​​the discovery list to stop the scanning operation. When the scan cycle associated with the scan is reached, the processor (170) can change the stop icon (181a) in the top area to a start icon (181b) to start the scan again. The processor (170) can display the names of the sink devices that have been paired and are in a pre-connection state in the disconnected list of the third area (180R3).

[0187] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 10, the processor (170) may display the names of sink devices that have completed connections for volume control in a connected list in a third area. When multiple sink devices having the same device identifier are scanned, the processor (170) may display a first screen on the display (180) regarding whether to perform a group connection. The processor (170) may receive a first user input to perform a group connection. In this regard, multiple users can listen to the same content at the same volume through multiple sink devices (sound playback devices, earbuds) within the same space.

[0188] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 11, based on a first user input, the processor (170) can simultaneously perform volume control for a plurality of sink devices through a volume control channel associated with volume control. In this regard, volume control is not limited to being performed at the same volume for the same user's sink devices (audio playback devices, earbuds). Multiple users can listen to the same content at the same volume through multiple sink devices (audio playback devices, earbuds) within the same space.

[0189] Meanwhile, the processor (170) can determine whether the number of sink devices (200) connected to or attempting to connect with the display device (100) has reached a threshold value while volume control is performed on a plurality of sink devices connected as a group.

[0190] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 12, when the number reaches a threshold value while volume control is being performed, the processor (170) can simultaneously perform disconnection of a plurality of sink devices connected in a group. In this regard, disconnection of the same user's left / right audio playback devices (earbuds) can be performed simultaneously.

[0191] The processor (170) can determine whether a third user input associated with power on or power off is received from any one of the plurality of sink devices (200). If a third user input associated with power on or power off is received, the processor (170) can simultaneously perform connection or disconnection of the plurality of sink devices (200). In this regard, connection or disconnection of the same user's left / right audio playback devices (earbuds) can be performed simultaneously.

[0192] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 13, a plurality of disconnected sink devices (200) can be switched to an unpaired state. As the device is switched to an unpaired state, the processor (170) can control the screen of the display (180) so that the name of a specific sink device displayed in the disconnection list of the third area (180R3) is displayed in the discovery list of the second area (180R2).

[0193] Meanwhile, the display device according to the present disclosure can perform group control for sink devices having different device identifiers. In this regard, FIG. 14 shows an operation flowchart for group control of a plurality of sink devices.

[0194] Referring to FIG. 4a and FIG. 14, scanning (S110), pairing (S120), volume control connection (S130), broadcast start (S131), and audio stream playback (S135) can be performed between the audio source, the display device (100), and the sink devices (200). Following audio stream playback (S135), a volume control request (S155) can be transmitted from the sink devices (200) to the display device (100). In response to the volume control request, the display device (100) can transmit a control command associated with volume control to the sink devices (200) (S160).

[0195] In this regard, after the broadcast is started (S131), a scan (S110), pairing (S120), and volume control connection (S130) may be performed between the display device (100) and the sink devices (200). Referring to FIG. 4b and FIG. 14, the start of the broadcast (S131) ​​and the playback of the audio stream (S135) may be performed from the display device (100), which is the audio source, to the sink devices (200). Subsequently, a scan (S110), pairing (S120), and volume control connection (S130) may be performed between the display device (100) and the sink devices (200). Following the volume control connection (S130), a volume control request may be transmitted (S155) from the sink devices (200) to the display device (100). In response to a volume control request, the display device (100) can transmit a control command associated with volume control to the sink devices (200) (S160).

[0196] Referring to FIGS. 4a, FIGS. 4b and FIG. 14, between the scanning (S110) and pairing (S120) of the sink devices (200), it can be determined (S111) whether the sink devices (200) are the same device. In this regard, the audio source display device (100) can determine (S112) whether to perform common control on sink devices with different device IDs and UUIDs.

[0197] In this regard, multiple sink devices with the same name may be searched. As multiple sink devices with the same name are searched, grouping is possible by allowing the user to select whether to group them together and proceed with the connection. Meanwhile, grouping can also be achieved for sink devices that have been searched and connected individually by allowing the user to select whether to use them as a group. In this regard, when multiple sink devices capable of playing Auracast broadcast sound are connected and used simultaneously, grouping can be achieved by allowing the user to select whether to group them together.

[0198] With reference to FIGS. 1 through 14, a group control method for a plurality of sink devices of a display device that interacts with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present disclosure is described. A processor (170) may be configured to scan (S110) sink devices (200) to obtain a device ID and a universal unique identifier (UUID). The processor (170) may be configured to request (S112) whether to determine that sink devices with different device IDs and UUIDs are the same sink device.

[0199] The processor (170) can display a second screen related to group control on the display (180) for multiple sink devices for which scanning and connection have been performed through different processes. When a second user input is received to perform group control, the processor (170) can simultaneously perform volume control for multiple sink devices through a volume control channel associated with volume control (S160). In this regard, multiple users can listen to the same content at the same volume through multiple sink devices (sound playback devices, earbuds) within the same space.

[0200] The processor (170) can determine whether the number of sink devices connected to or attempting to connect with the display device (100) has reached a threshold value while volume control is performed on multiple sink devices associated with group control. If the number reaches a threshold value while volume control is performed, the processor (170) can perform disconnection of a specific sink device among the multiple sink devices associated with group control that does not require volume control.

[0201] In this regard, multiple users can listen to the same content at the same volume through multiple sync devices (audio playback devices, earbuds) within the same space. For example, users listening to a performance at a pre-set volume in a concert hall no longer need to maintain a connection for volume control. Therefore, a volume control channel may be assigned to the sync device of a user who arrived late at the concert hall. The target for disconnecting the volume control channel may be determined based on the order in which the connection was established. Additionally, a volume control channel may be assigned to the sync device of a specific user among those listening to the performance at the same volume who wishes to adjust the volume.

[0202] The processor (170) can determine whether a third user input associated with power on or power off is received from any one of the multiple sink devices. If a third user input associated with power on or power off is received, the processor (170) can simultaneously perform connection or disconnection of the multiple sink devices (200).

[0203] In this regard, group common control is not limited to operations associated with power on / off. For example, the processor (170) may determine whether a third user input associated with volume control or broadcast reception interruption is received from any one of the multiple sink devices or from the master device. If a third user input associated with volume control or broadcast reception interruption is received, the processor (170) may simultaneously perform connection or disconnection for the multiple sink devices (200).

[0204] For the above, a display device linked with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present specification and sink devices that can be simultaneously connected thereto have been described. In this regard, a source device capable of supporting a broadcast assistant function without a separate relay device can be implemented through the display device. If there is no device supporting the broadcast assistant function, there is an issue where the broadcast cannot be listened to by the sink devices.

[0205] To support the broadcast assistant function, only one sink device can receive and play sound via a separate mobile device. On the other hand, multiple sink devices can be connected simultaneously through the built-in assistant function of source devices, such as display devices. Additionally, broadcasts can be listened to directly through the sink device without using a separate mobile device or relay device.

[0206] In this regard, the function of the built-in assistant of a source device, such as a display device, is to search for, pair, and connect / disconnect sink devices that support LE Audio. Additionally, through the connected sink devices that support LE Audio, the user can listen to broadcasts and control volume optimized individually or by subgroup.

[0207] Meanwhile, the technical effects of a display device linked with sink devices capable of playing a stream according to the present specification and sink devices that can be simultaneously connected thereto may be summarized as follows, but are not limited thereto.

[0208] According to the present specification, this can be provided through a display device that interacts directly with sink devices without a separate mobile device. In this regard, the broadcast assistant function of a mobile device, which was essential for transmitting sound from a source device to sink devices, is incorporated into the source device so that the sink device can be directly connected to the source device to receive and play sound without a separate relay device.

[0209] According to the present specification, a function to play sound output from a display device that interacts directly with sink devices without a separate mobile device on a plurality of sink devices may be supported.

[0210] According to the present specification, a function to play sound output from a display device that interacts directly with sink devices without a separate mobile device and to control the volume of the sound on a plurality of sink devices may be supported.

[0211] According to the present specification, a function can be supported to enable a display device to operate as a built-in assistant, thereby acting as an assistant for a mobile device.

[0212] According to the present specification, the display device operates as a built-in assistant so that it can independently search for, pair, and connect sink devices without scanning source devices.

[0213] According to the present specification, sink devices capable of Oracast broadcasting can transmit information from a source device to a selected sink device according to user selection.

[0214] According to the present specification, information from a source device is transmitted to a selected sink device, allowing Oracast broadcasting to be implemented through volume control desired by multiple users without the need for a separate relay device.

[0215] According to the present specification, a plurality of sink devices can be simultaneously connected through a source device without a plurality of relay devices for a plurality of sink devices.

[0216] According to the present specification, compared to conventional Bluetooth functions, it is possible to receive sound by connecting multiple sink devices and enable optimal volume control for each sink device.

[0217] According to the present specification, the limitation on the number of sink devices that can be connected can be overcome while implementing a built-in assistant in an Auracast broadcast. In this regard, the limitation on the number of sink devices that can be connected can be overcome by adding an operation to disconnect the sink device until a connection is established between the source / sink devices and a volume change occurs.

[0218] The foregoing disclosure may be implemented as computer-readable code on a medium on which a program is recorded. A computer-readable medium includes all types of recording devices in which data that can be read by a computer system is stored. Examples of computer-readable media include a Hard Disk Drive (HDD), a Solid State Disk (SSD), a Silicon Disk Drive (SSD), ROM, RAM, a CD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a floppy disk, an optical data storage device, etc., and also include implementations in the form of a carrier wave (e.g., transmission over the Internet). Additionally, the computer may include a processor (170) of a terminal. Accordingly, the above detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all respects and should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. In a display device that interacts with sink devices capable of playing a stream, A display that displays a list of sink devices capable of playing audio streams on the screen; A wireless communication module configured to transmit a wireless signal containing the audio stream to the above sink devices; and It includes a processor that controls the wireless communication module to scan the above-mentioned sink devices and pair them, and The above processor is, A connection associated with volume control is established between the sink devices and the audio stream played through the sink devices so that the volume of the audio stream played through the sink devices is controlled, and A display device that controls the disconnection with at least one first sink device among the sink devices while the above audio stream is being played.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, A display device that establishes a connection with the disconnected first sink device if volume control of the disconnected first sink device is required.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, A display device that transmits the audio stream through a volume control channel associated with the volume control so that the paired sink devices receive the wireless signal and play the audio stream.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above processor is, A display device that performs volume control of audio played on the connected sink devices through the volume control channel.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, A display device that controls the disconnection of at least one first sink device among the sink devices that does not require volume control when the number of sink devices connected to or attempting to connect to the display device reaches a threshold value.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above processor is, A display device that controls the disconnection of at least one first sink device among the sink devices that does not require volume control when the number of the sink devices reaches a threshold value and the second sink device attempts to connect.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, Controls the broadcasting of a data stream including the above audio stream and video stream to start based on a first volume value, and After the broadcast of the above data stream begins, the sink devices are scanned based on a Universal Unique Identifier (UUID), and Pairing the sink devices by exchanging messages with the sink devices, Establish a connection associated with volume control with the above-mentioned paired sink devices, and A display device that transmits the audio stream having a second volume value associated with the sink devices to the sink devices based on the above-mentioned connection.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, Scan the sink devices based on Universal Unique Identifiers (UUIDs), and Pairing the sink devices by exchanging messages with the sink devices, Establish a connection associated with the above-mentioned paired sink devices and the above-mentioned volume control, and Controls the start of broadcasting of a data stream including the above audio stream and video stream, and A display device that transmits the audio stream having a volume value based on the above-set connection to the sink devices.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above processor is, A display device in which broadcasting of a data stream including an audio stream and a video stream is initiated based on the above-established connection and a volume value associated with the above-established sink devices.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, Scan the above sink devices to obtain the device ID and Universal Unique Identifier (UUID), and For sink devices with the same device ID and UUID, determine that they are the same sink device, and Controls the screen of the above display to display the same sink devices as a single sink device in the discovered list, and A display device comprising a left audio playback device and a right audio playback device capable of playing the audio stream, wherein the same sink devices are as described above.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above processor is, Receiving user requests related to pairing and connection for the above identical sink devices, and A display device that controls the connection of all of the same sink devices to be displayed as a single sink device in the connected list of the screen when pairing and connection are completed for all of the same sink devices in response to the above user request.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above processor is, A display device that simultaneously performs volume control of the left sound playback device and the right sound playback device through a volume control channel associated with the volume control.

13. In Paragraph 11, The above processor is, An initial screen associated with a UUID, scan, and broadcast is displayed in the first, second, and third areas of the above display, and Controls that selection icons related to the type of UUID are displayed in the first area above, and Controls the display of the discovery list in the second area above, and A display device that controls the connection list and disconnection list to be displayed in the third area.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above processor is, Display the names and pairing icons of the sink devices that have been scanned above in the discovery list of the second area above. A stop icon capable of stopping the above scanning operation is displayed in the top area of ​​the above discovery list, and A display device that changes the stop icon in the upper area to a start icon that can start scanning again when the scan cycle associated with the above scan is reached.

15. In Paragraph 14, The above processor is, The names of the sink devices that are in a state prior to the pairing and prior to connection are displayed in the disconnection list of the third area, and A display device that displays the names of the sink devices connected for the above volume control in the connection list of the above third area.

16. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, When multiple sink devices having the same device identifier are scanned, a first screen related to whether to perform a group connection is displayed on the display, and A display device that, upon receiving a first user input to perform a connection to the above group, simultaneously performs volume control for the plurality of sink devices through a volume control channel associated with the volume control.

17. In Paragraph 16, The above processor is, Determining whether the number of sink devices connected to or attempting to connect to the display device has reached a threshold value while volume control is performed on a plurality of sink devices connected to the above group, and When the number reaches the threshold value while the above volume control is performed, disconnection of multiple sink devices connected to the group is performed simultaneously, and A display device that simultaneously performs connection or disconnection of the plurality of sink devices when a third user input associated with power on or power off is received from any one of the plurality of sink devices.

18. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, For multiple sink devices where scanning and connection are performed through different processes, a second screen related to group control is displayed on the display, and A display device that, upon receiving a second user input to perform the above group control, simultaneously performs volume control for the plurality of sink devices through a volume control channel associated with the volume control.

19. In Paragraph 18, The above processor is, Determining whether the number of sink devices connected to or attempting to connect to the display device has reached a threshold value while volume control is performed on a plurality of sink devices associated with the above group control, and A display device that, when the number reaches the threshold value while the volume control is performed, performs disconnection of a specific sink device among a plurality of sink devices associated with the group control that does not require volume control.

20. In Paragraph 19, The above processor is, A display device that simultaneously performs connection or disconnection of the plurality of sink devices when a third user input associated with power on or power off is received from any one of the plurality of sink devices.

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