Electronic device, method for providing product guarantee information, and non-transitory recording medium

Abstract

Disclosed is an electronic device for providing product guarantee information. The electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: a display; a network interface for communicating with a server; a wireless communication interface for communicating with an external apparatus; and a controller. The controller: acquires information about the external apparatus and a reception time point of a communication signal on the basis of the communication signal received from the external apparatus; transmits the acquired information about the external apparatus and reception time point to the server by means of the network interface; receives a notification signal from the server; and displays, on the display, a user notification including guarantee information about the external apparatus on the basis of the notification signal.

Description

Electronic device, method for providing product warranty information, and non-transient recording medium

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device, and more specifically, to a device for estimating the time of purchase of a product to provide warranty information.

[0002] Generally, consumers who purchase a product receive free warranty service from the manufacturer for a certain period. However, after the basic warranty period expires, consumers cannot receive free repair benefits unless they subscribe to a separate Extended Warranty product. Accordingly, manufacturers send out subscription notices via mail or email to encourage enrollment in Extended Warranty products in time for the warranty expiration date.

[0003] However, such guidance is provided only when the consumer's product purchase time can be accurately identified. For example, while the time of purchase can be estimated for consumers who have completed customer registration or purchased directly from an Online Brand Store (OBS), it is difficult to obtain purchase time information for purchases made through general distribution channels.

[0004] Although manufacturers are aware that the subscription rate for extended warranties is highest at the time of warranty expiration, they face difficulties in efficient marketing and guidance due to the difficulty in identifying the purchase timing and target customers.

[0005] In addition, while it is necessary to verify the proper functioning of the product before subscribing to an extended warranty, eligibility is often restricted because it is difficult to determine this remotely.

[0006] Furthermore, while distributors can directly perceive the point of sale, manufacturers cannot directly access consumer information and cannot collect such data unless marketing consent has been obtained, leading to a problem of information disconnect between manufacturers and consumers.

[0007] The purpose of the present disclosure may be to accurately estimate the time of purchase of a product through a broadcasted signal at the time of the initial installation of the product.

[0008] The purpose of the present disclosure may be to automatically provide guidance on signing up for an extended warranty aligned with the warranty expiration date based on the estimated time of purchase of the product.

[0009] The purpose of the present disclosure may be to remotely determine whether a consumer's product is operating normally and to efficiently select eligible recipients for an extended warranty.

[0010] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a display; a network interface communicating with a server; a wireless communication interface communicating with an external device; and a controller that acquires information of the external device and the time of reception of the communication signal based on a communication signal received from the external device, transmits the acquired information of the external device and the time of reception to the server through the network interface, receives a notification signal from the server, and displays a user notification including warranty information of the external device on the display based on the notification signal.

[0011] A method for providing warranty information for an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: receiving a communication signal from an external device; obtaining information of the external device and a time of receipt of the communication signal based on the received communication signal; transmitting the obtained information of the external device and the time of receipt to a server; receiving a notification signal from the server; and displaying a user notification including warranty information of the external device based on the notification signal.

[0012] In a non-transient recording medium storing computer-readable instructions that cause the device to perform a method when executed by a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method may include: receiving a communication signal from an external device; obtaining information of the external device and a time of receiving the communication signal based on the received communication signal; transmitting the obtained information of the external device and the time of receiving to a server; receiving a notification signal from the server; and displaying a user notification including warranty information of the external device based on the notification signal.

[0013] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the time of purchase of a product can be estimated regardless of whether the customer is registered, so the manufacturer can send a notice of subscription to an extended warranty at a more accurate time.

[0014] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the manufacturer can improve the subscription rate for the Extended Warranty, and the consumer can receive timely guidance and continuously use the warranty service.

[0015] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, by remotely determining whether a product is operating normally, eligibility for an extended warranty can be verified in advance, thereby preventing unnecessary after-sales service costs or claims.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining the configuration of a system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram for explaining a method of providing warranty information for a product according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the configuration of a system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIGS. 5a to 5d are drawings illustrating examples of outputting a user notification including warranty information of an external device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating an example of providing user notifications by group based on the remaining warranty period according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of providing user notifications in the form of a timeline according to the warranty period of an external device.

[0023] FIGS. 8a to 8c are drawings illustrating an example in which a washing machine receives a notification signal containing warranty information and the washing machine outputs a user notification.

[0024] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for subscribing to an extended warranty of an external device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments related to the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. 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 have distinct meanings or roles.

[0026] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention is, for example, an intelligent electronic device that adds computer support functions to a broadcast reception function. While faithful to the broadcast reception function, it also has added internet functions, and can be equipped with a more convenient interface for use, such as a handwriting input device, a touch screen, or a spatial remote control. Furthermore, by supporting wired or wireless internet functions, it can be connected to the internet and a computer, and can perform functions such as email, web browsing, banking, or games. A standardized general-purpose OS may be used for these various functions.

[0027] Accordingly, the electronic device described in the present invention allows various applications to be freely added or removed, for example, on a general-purpose OS kernel, thereby enabling various user-friendly functions to be performed. More specifically, the electronic device may be, for example, a network TV, HBB TV, smart TV, LED TV, OLED TV, etc., and may also be applicable to smartphones in some cases.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 1, the electronic 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).

[0030] The video receiver (130) may include a tuner (131), a demodulator (132), and a network interface (133).

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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).

[0034] The external device interface (135) can provide a connection path between the electronic device (100) and an external device. The external device interface (135) can receive one or more of video and audio output from an external device connected to the electronic device (100) wirelessly or via a wired connection, and transmit them to the controller (170). The external device interface (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.

[0035] The video signal of an external device input through the external device interface (135) can be output through the display (180). The audio signal of an external device input through the external device interface (135) can be output through the speaker (185).

[0036] The external device that can be connected to the external device interface (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.

[0037] The network interface (133) may provide an interface for connecting the electronic device (100) to a wired / wireless network including the Internet network. The network interface (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.

[0038] In addition, some of the content data stored in the electronic 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 electronic device (100).

[0039] The network interface (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.

[0040] Additionally, 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, and related information provided by a content provider or network provider through a network.

[0041] 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 a content provider or network operator.

[0042] The network interface (133) can select and receive a desired application among the applications that are open to the public through the network.

[0043] The memory (140) can store programs for each signal processing and control within the controller (170), and can store signal-processed video, audio, or data signals.

[0044] Additionally, the memory (140) may perform the function of temporarily storing video, audio, or data signals input from an external device interface (135) or a network interface (133), and may also store information regarding a predetermined image through a channel memory function.

[0045] The memory (140) can store an application or a list of applications input from an external device interface (135) or a network interface (133).

[0046] The electronic device (100) can play content files (video files, still image files, music files, document files, application files, etc.) stored in memory (140) and provide them to the user.

[0047] 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 (20) according to various communication methods such as Bluetooth, Ultra Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, Radio Frequency (RF) communication, or Infrared (IR) communication, or process control signals from the controller (170) to be transmitted to the remote control device (20).

[0048] Additionally, 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 key, to the controller (170).

[0049] The image signal processed by the controller (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 controller (170) can be input to an external output device through the external device interface (135).

[0050] The voice signal processed by the controller (170) can be output as audio to the speaker (185). Additionally, the voice signal processed by the controller (170) can be input to an external output device through the external device interface (135).

[0051] In addition, the controller (170) can control the overall operation within the electronic device (100).

[0052] Additionally, the controller (170) can control the electronic device (100) by means of user commands or internal programs entered through the user input interface (150), and can connect to a network to allow the user to download an application or a list of applications desired by the user into the electronic device (100).

[0053] The controller (170) enables the processed video or audio signal, such as channel information selected by the user, to be output through the display (180) or speaker (185).

[0054] Additionally, the controller (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 speaker (185).

[0055] Meanwhile, the controller (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 (135), video input through the network interface, or video stored in the memory (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.

[0056] Additionally, the controller (170) can control the playback of content stored in the electronic 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.

[0057] The wireless communication interface (173) can communicate with an external device via wired or wireless communication. The wireless communication interface (173) can perform short-range communication with an external device. To this end, the wireless communication interface (173) can support short-range communication by using at least one of Bluetooth™, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, and Wireless Universal Serial Bus (Wireless USB) technologies. Such wireless communication interface (173) can support wireless communication between the electronic device (100) and a wireless communication system, between the electronic device (100) and another electronic device (100), or between the electronic device (100) and a network where the electronic device (100, or an external server) is located, through wireless area networks. Short-range wireless communication networks can be Wireless Personal Area Networks.

[0058] Here, the other electronic device (100) may be a mobile terminal such as a wearable device (e.g., a smartwatch, smart glass, HMD (head mounted display)), a smartphone, etc., capable of exchanging data with (or interoperable with) the electronic device (100) according to the present invention. The wireless communication interface (173) may detect (or recognize) a wearable device capable of communicating around the electronic device (100).

[0059] Furthermore, if the detected wearable device is a device authenticated to communicate with the electronic device (100) according to the present invention, the controller (170) may transmit at least a portion of the data processed by the electronic device (100) to the wearable device through the wireless communication interface (173). Accordingly, the user of the wearable device may use the data processed by the electronic device (100) through the wearable device.

[0060] The display (180) can generate a driving signal by converting the video signal, data signal, OSD signal processed by the controller (170) or the video signal, data signal, etc. received from the external device interface (135) into R, G, and B signals, respectively.

[0061] Meanwhile, since the electronic 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 electronic device (100) being implemented.

[0062] 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 thereof do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0063] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device (100) may receive and play video through a network interface (133) or an external device interface (135) without having a tuner (131) and a demodulator (132), unlike as shown in FIG. 1.

[0064] For example, the electronic device (100) may be implemented by separating it into a video processing device, such as a set-top box, for receiving broadcast signals or content according to various network services, and a content playback device for playing content input from the video processing device.

[0065] In this case, the operation method of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention described below may be performed not only by the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIG. 1, but also by any one of a video processing device such as the separated set-top box, or a content playback device equipped with a display (180) and a speaker (185).

[0066] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining the configuration of a system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 2, the system (2) may include an electronic device (100), a server (200), and an external device (300).

[0068] The electronic device (100) can receive a communication signal from an external device (300).

[0069] The electronic device (100) can acquire information of an external device (300) and the time of reception of the communication signal based on the received communication signal, and can transmit the acquired information of the external device (300) and the time of reception of the communication signal to the server (200).

[0070] The server (200) can obtain warranty information of the external device (300) based on the time of receipt of information of the external device (300) and communication signals received from the electronic device (100), and can transmit a notification signal including the obtained warranty information of the external device to the electronic device (100).

[0071] The electronic device (100) can output a user notification including warranty information of an external device (300) based on a notification signal received from a server (200).

[0072] The external device (300) may be provided in multiple numbers.

[0073] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram for explaining a method of providing warranty information for a product according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 3, the electronic device (100) can receive a communication signal from an external device (300) (S301).

[0075] In one embodiment, the communication signal may be an advertising signal broadcast via Bluetooth. The controller (170) of the electronic device (100) may receive an advertising signal received from an external device (300) through a Bluetooth circuit included in a wireless communication interface (173).

[0076] When an external device (300) is installed in the space where the electronic device (100) is located, it can broadcast an advertisement signal to announce its presence, and the electronic device (100) can receive the advertisement signal.

[0077] In another embodiment, the communication signal may be a Wi-Fi signal received based on a Wi-Fi standard. The electronic device (100) may receive a Wi-Fi signal through a Wi-Fi standard received from an external device (300) or a router (not shown).

[0078] The electronic device (100) can receive a Wi-Fi signal including the time of initial registration (or connection) to a Wi-Fi network from an external device (300) or a router (not shown) through a Wi-Fi circuit provided in a wireless communication interface (173).

[0079] The communication signal may include information of an external device (300). The information of the external device (300) may include one or more of the following: a manufacturer's identifier identifying the manufacturer of the external device (300), a MAC (Media Access Control) address of the external device (300), and identification information of the external device (300). The identification information of the external device (300) may include one or more of the name of the external device (300) or the model name of the external device (300).

[0080] The electronic device (100) can acquire information of an external device (300) and the time of reception of the communication signal based on the received communication signal, and can transmit the acquired information of the external device (300) and the time of reception of the communication signal to the server (200) (S303).

[0081] The controller (170) of the electronic device (100) can obtain information of the external device (300) and the time of reception of the advertisement signal from the advertisement signal.

[0082] The controller (170) can obtain the time at which the advertisement signal was first received as the time of receipt of the advertisement signal. The time of receipt may be the time at which the advertisement signal was first received from the external device (300). The time at which the advertisement signal was received may be used to estimate the time of purchase or the time of warranty expiration of the external device (300).

[0083] The information of the external device (300) may include one or more of the manufacturer's identifier identifying the manufacturer of the external device (300), the MAC (Media Access Control) address of the external device (300), and identification information of the external device (300). The identification information of the external device (300) may include one or more of the name of the external device (300) or the model name of the external device (300).

[0084] The information of the external device (300) may further include user account information that identifies the user. The user account information may be included in the information of the external device (300) or may be transmitted separately from the information of the external device (300).

[0085] The controller (170) of the electronic device (100) can transmit the time of reception of information and advertising signals of the external device (300) to the server (200). The controller (170) can estimate the time of reception when the advertising signal was first received as the time of purchase of the external device (300).

[0086] The server (200) can obtain warranty information of the external device (300) based on the time of receipt of information of the external device (300) and communication signals received from the electronic device (100) (S305), and can transmit a notification signal including the obtained warranty information of the external device to the electronic device (100) (S307).

[0087] The server (200) may include a database that stores identification information for each of a plurality of external devices, a warranty period matched to the identification information, and subscription information for an extended warranty matched to the identification information. The subscription information for the extended warranty may include whether the extended warranty has been subscribed to and the subscription period for the extended warranty.

[0088] The server (200) can extract information on the warranty period and the subscription to the extended warranty that matches the identification information among the information of the external device (300) received through the database.

[0089] The server (200) can estimate or obtain the time of the first reception of the communication signal as the time of purchase of the external device (300).

[0090] The server (200) can obtain warranty information of the external device (300) based on the purchase time of the external device (300), the warranty period, and the subscription information for the extended warranty. The server (200) can check whether the user account is subscribed to the extended warranty using user account information received from the electronic device (100). If the user account is not subscribed to the extended warranty, the server (200) can obtain warranty information and the time of transmission of a notification signal containing the warranty information.

[0091] The warranty information of the external device (300) may include one or more of the identification information of the external device (300), the total warranty period of the external device (300), whether the warranty of the external device (300) has expired, the remaining warranty period of the external device (300), the time of warranty expiration of the external device (300), or information inducing subscription to an extended warranty.

[0092] Information encouraging subscription to the extended guarantee may include one or more of a QR code for subscribing to the extended guarantee, an access address (URL), or text guiding subscription to the extended guarantee.

[0093] The server (200) can transmit a notification signal to the electronic device (100) at a time that is a first period prior to the expiration of the warranty of the external device (300). The first period may be three months, but this is merely an example. Accordingly, the electronic device (100) can receive a notification signal from the server (200) at a time that is a second period prior to the purchase time of the external device (300).

[0094] For example, if the purchase date of the external device (300) is 2026-01-01 and the warranty period is 2 years, the warranty expiration date may be 2028-01-01. The purchase date of the external device (300) may be the time when the advertisement signal transmitted from the external device (300) is first received.

[0095] The electronic device (100) can receive a notification signal containing warranty information of an external device (300) from the server (200) on 2027-10-01. That is, the electronic device (100) can receive a notification signal from the server (200) after a preset period from 2026-01-01.

[0096] In another embodiment, the electronic device (100) may determine the display time of a user notification based on a notification signal received from the server (200). The notification signal may include the purchase time of the external device (300) and the warranty period of the external device (300). The electronic device (100) may use the purchase time of the external device (300) and the warranty period of the external device (300) to determine the display time of the user notification as a point in time after a preset period from the purchase time of the external device.

[0097] The electronic device (100) can output a user notification including warranty information of an external device (300) based on a notification signal received from a server (200) (S309).

[0098] The controller (170) of the electronic device (100) can display user notifications on the display (180) or output them as voice through the speaker (185).

[0099] In one embodiment, the controller (170) may display user notifications on a banner area where banner advertisements are displayed or on a widget setting area for setting up a widget.

[0100] In one embodiment, the controller (170) may change one or more of the display position, size, color of the user notification, the size or display cycle of the QR code included in the user notification to induce subscription to the extended warranty, depending on the remaining warranty period of the external device (300) included in the received warranty information. The QR code may be a code that provides access to a site for subscribing to the extended warranty of the external device (300).

[0101] The electronic device (100) can change the form of the QR code included in the user notification depending on the type of external device (300). The form of the QR code may be any one of the size, shape, or density of the QR code.

[0102] If the external device (300) is identified as a washing machine, the electronic device (100) may display a first QR code containing URL (Uniform Resource Locator) information for subscribing to an extended warranty exclusively for washing machines. On the other hand, if the external device (300) is a refrigerator, the electronic device (100) may display a second QR code containing link information for subscribing to an extended warranty corresponding to the refrigerator product family. The form of the first QR code and the form of the second QR code may be different from each other.

[0103] In another embodiment, the controller (170) may receive a notification signal from the server (200) that includes warranty information for an external device other than the warranty information of the external device (300). That is, the controller (170) may receive a notification signal from the server (200) that includes warranty information corresponding to each of a plurality of external devices through the network interface (133).

[0104] In this case, the controller (170) can generate different types of QR codes for signing up for extended warranty depending on the type of external device.

[0105] Additionally, the controller (170) can group external devices according to the remaining warranty period for each external device and display group notifications for each group.

[0106] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the configuration of a system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 4, the system may include an electronic device (100), a washing machine (300-1), a dryer (300-2), a refrigerator (300-3), and a server (200). The electronic device (100) may be a TV, but this is merely an example.

[0108] The electronic device (100), washing machine (300-1), and dryer (300-2) may be home appliances already installed in the house, and the refrigerator (300-3) may be a newly installed home appliance.

[0109] The electronic device (100) can scan for an advertising signal broadcast by the refrigerator (300-3). The electronic device (100) can scan for an advertising signal transmitted from the refrigerator (300-3) and obtain the information of the refrigerator (300-3) and the time of first reception when the advertising signal was first received.

[0110] The electronic device (100) can transmit information about the refrigerator (300-3) and the time of first reception to the server (200).

[0111] The server (200) can extract warranty information related to the warranty period of the refrigerator (300-3) using the time of first reception of the information and advertising signal of the received refrigerator (300-3). The server (200) can transmit a notification signal containing the extracted warranty information of the refrigerator (300-3) to the electronic device (100).

[0112] The electronic device (100) can display a user notification containing warranty information on the display (180) based on a notification signal received from the server (200).

[0113] FIGS. 5a to 5d are drawings illustrating examples of outputting a user notification including warranty information of an external device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0114] In FIGS. 5a to 5d, it is assumed that the external device is the refrigerator (300-3) described in FIG. 4. Hereinafter, it is assumed that user notifications are displayed on the home screen (500), but this is merely an example and may be displayed on a screen of a different type than the home screen (500).

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 5a through 5d, the electronic device (100) can display a home screen (500) on a display (180).

[0116] Referring to FIG. 5a, the electronic device (100) may display a first user notification (511) containing warranty information for the refrigerator (300-3) on a banner area (510) of the home screen (500). The first user notification (511) may include a first text (511a) indicating that the warranty period of the refrigerator (300-3) is about to expire, a second text (511b) instructing to scan a QR code to induce subscription to an extended warranty, and a QR code (511c) for accessing the subscription site for the extended warranty.

[0117] As such, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device (100) provides the effect of enabling the user to immediately recognize and be induced to sign up for an extended warranty by displaying a notification of the scheduled warranty expiration on the home screen (500). In addition, user convenience can be improved by easily accessing the extended warranty sign-up site via a QR code (511c). Accordingly, the manufacturer can induce timely sign-up for the extended warranty, thereby increasing the extended warranty sign-up rate.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 5b, in another embodiment, the electronic device (100) may display a second user notification (521) containing warranty information of the refrigerator (300-3) in the form of a notification window (or pop-up window, 520). When the electronic device (100) receives a notification signal from the server (200), it may display the second user notification (521) containing warranty information of the refrigerator (300-3) through the notification window (520).

[0119] Referring to FIG. 5c, in another embodiment, the electronic device (100) may display a third user notification (531) containing warranty information for the refrigerator (300-3) through an artificial intelligence comment window (530). The artificial intelligence comment window (530) may be a window for providing voice recognition services or guiding artificial intelligence-based services. When the electronic device (100) receives a notification signal from the server (200), it may display a third user notification (531) containing warranty information for the refrigerator (300-3) through the artificial intelligence comment window (530).

[0120] Referring to FIG. 5d, the electronic device (100) can display a fourth user notification (541) containing warranty information for the refrigerator (300-3) on an app icon (540) on an app list.

[0121] In another embodiment, the electronic device (100) may display a user notification containing warranty information for the refrigerator (300-3) on a content purchase area for providing a content purchase service, a Q card separating multiple apps by category, or a content item corresponding to the content.

[0122] As such, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device (100) can provide the effect of enabling the user to intuitively recognize warranty expiration information regardless of which interface is used by displaying warranty information of an external device through various areas (banner, pop-up window, artificial intelligence comment window, app icon, etc.).

[0123] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating an example of providing user notifications by group based on the remaining warranty period according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0124] The notification signal received from the server (200) may include warranty information for existing home appliances in addition to warranty information for newly installed home appliances. For example, the notification signal may include warranty information for each of the washing machine (300-1), dryer (300-2), and refrigerator (300-3).

[0125] The electronic device (100) can display a user notification (600) including a first group notification (610) and a second group notification (620) on the display (180) based on warranty information for each of the washing machine (300-1), dryer (300-2) and refrigerator (300-3).

[0126] The first group notification (610) may include information about a group of home appliances with a remaining warranty period of less than 3 months. The first group notification (610) may include a first remaining warranty period text (611) explaining that the remaining warranty period is less than 3 months, a washing machine image (612) corresponding to a washing machine (300-1), a dryer image (613) corresponding to a dryer (300-2), a first QR code (614) or a first link to induce subscription to a collective extended warranty for the home appliances included in the first group notification (610). Upon receiving a command to select the washing machine image (612), the electronic device (100) may display a detailed information window that provides detailed warranty information for the washing machine (300-1). Icons may be used instead of images representing each device.

[0127] The second group notification (620) may include information about a group of home appliances with a remaining warranty period of less than 6 months. The second group notification (620) may include a second remaining warranty period text (621) explaining that the remaining warranty period is less than 6 months, a refrigerator image (622) corresponding to the refrigerator (300-3), a second QR code (623) or a second link to induce subscription to a collective extended warranty for the home appliances included in the second group notification (620). Upon receiving a command to select the refrigerator image (622), the electronic device (100) may display a detailed information window that provides detailed warranty information for the refrigerator (300-3).

[0128] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of providing user notifications in the form of a timeline according to the warranty period of an external device.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 7, a timeline-based user notification (700) is illustrated.

[0130] The electronic device (100) can display a timeline-based user notification (700) on the display (180) based on a notification signal received from the server (200).

[0131] The user notification (700) may include a timeline (701) and refrigerator images (622), washing machine images (612), and dryer images (613) placed on the timeline (701) in order according to the remaining warranty period of the home appliances based on the warranty expiration time. On the timeline (701), a water purifier image (711) corresponding to a water purifier whose warranty expiration time has passed may be further placed.

[0132] On the timeline (701), the warranty expiration date and the deadline for signing up for an extended warranty (EW) can be identified.

[0133] Upon receiving a command to select a dryer image (613), the electronic device (100) may display a QR code (712) or a link that provides access to a site for signing up for an extended warranty of the dryer (300-2).

[0134] In this way, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device (100) can provide the effect of allowing a user to see at a glance the warranty expiration time of each device and the period during which an extended warranty can be purchased by visualizing the warranty status of a plurality of external devices in the form of a timeline.

[0135] In addition, by arranging device images according to the order of warranty expiration, devices requiring priority management can be intuitively identified, allowing users to efficiently manage warranty expirations and sign up for warranty extensions.

[0136] FIGS. 8a to 8c are drawings illustrating an example in which a washing machine receives a notification signal containing warranty information and the washing machine outputs a user notification.

[0137] The electronic device (100) can transmit a notification signal containing warranty information of the washing machine (300-1) received from the server (200) to the washing machine (300-1) through a wireless communication interface (173).

[0138] As another example, a washing machine (300-1) may be an example of an electronic device (100). In this case, the washing machine (300-1) can directly receive a notification signal from the server (200).

[0139] The washing machine (300-1) may be equipped with a power button (801) and a dial button (803) having a touch screen function. If the washing machine (300-1) is an example of an electronic device (100), the dial button (803) may be an example of a display (803).

[0140] When the washing machine (300-1) receives a command to select the power button (801) for turning on the power, it can display a greeting message (811) on the dial button (803).

[0141] The washing machine (300-1) may display a user notification (812) on the dial button (803) indicating that the warranty is about to expire when a greeting message (811) is selected or when a rotation input is received for the dial button (803). The user notification (812) may be temporarily displayed at the boot-up of the washing machine (300-1) to prevent user inconvenience.

[0142] The washing machine (300-1) may display an extended warranty subscription inducement notification (813) on the dial button (803) to induce subscription to the extended warranty when a user notification (812) is selected or when a rotation input for the dial button (803) is received. The extended warranty subscription inducement notification (813) to induce subscription to the extended warranty may include a QR code (813a) that provides access to a site for subscribing to the extended warranty.

[0143] As another example, the user notification (812) may be displayed in a situation where user control of the washing machine (300-1) is not required. For example, the user notification (812) may be displayed while the washing machine (300-1) is performing a wash.

[0144] As another example, the washing machine (300-1) can display a user notification (812) on the dial button (803) when it detects that the user is near the washing machine (300-1) through a proximity sensor.

[0145] When outputting user notifications (812) or notifications inducing subscription to extended warranty (813), sound effects may be output together.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 8b, when a user scans a QR code (813a) through a smartphone (800), a website (820) for signing up for an annual guarantee may be displayed on the smartphone.

[0147] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 8c, the washing machine (300-1) can display a user notification (831) on the dial button (803) to extend the warranty of the washing machine (300-1) through an app for managing home appliances.

[0148] When the washing machine (300-1) checks the user notification (831), it can display a message (832) on the dial button (803) that the notification has been sent to the app.

[0149] The smartphone (800) can display a notification (841) regarding the extended warranty, and can run an app according to a command to select the notification (841) to display an app execution screen (842). The app execution screen (842) may include a screen providing a subscription service for the extended warranty of the washing machine (300-1).

[0150] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for subscribing to an extended warranty of an external device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0151] The method of subscribing to the extended warranty of the external device (300) of FIG. 9 can be performed by any one of the electronic device (100), server (200), or smartphone (800).

[0152] In the following, it is assumed that the embodiment of FIG. 9 is performed by a server (200).

[0153] Referring to FIG. 9, the server (200) can receive a request for subscription to an extended warranty of an external device (300) (S901).

[0154] In one embodiment, the server (200) can receive a request for subscription to an extended warranty through an app for managing home appliances installed in the electronic device (100).

[0155] The server (200) can remotely perform smart diagnostics on an external device (300) in response to a received request (S903).

[0156] Smart diagnosis may be a function that checks the current status of a product and provides a solution in the event of a failure. A server (200) may transmit a diagnosis request to an external device (300) and receive a diagnosis response in response to the diagnosis request. The diagnosis request may include a control command for controlling one or more functions of the external device (300). The diagnosis response may include the result of performing an operation according to the control command.

[0157] The server (200) can determine whether the external device (300) is operating normally based on the execution of the smart diagnosis (S905).

[0158] The server (200) can determine whether the external device (300) is operating normally based on the operation execution result included in the diagnostic response. The operation execution result may include one or more of sensor data, operation logs, measured values ​​such as temperature / current / voltage, or error code information regarding the function performed by the external device (300).

[0159] The server (200) can determine whether the operation state of the external device (300) is within a normal range by comparing the result of the operation with reference data corresponding to a normal operation stored in advance.

[0160] If the server (200) determines that the external device (300) is operating normally, it may approve the subscription to the extended warranty (S907).

[0161] Additionally, the server (200) can transmit a subscription approval signal to the electronic device (100) indicating that subscription to an extended warranty is possible for the corresponding external device (300).

[0162] If the server (200) determines that the external device (300) is operating abnormally, it may refuse to sign up for the extended warranty (S909).

[0163] Additionally, the server (200) can transmit a subscription rejection signal to the electronic device (100) indicating that subscription to an extended warranty is not possible for the corresponding external device (300).

[0164] Additionally, if the server (200) determines that the external device (300) is operating abnormally, it may send a notification of inspection or repair guidance to the electronic device (100). Accordingly, the user may receive guidance to take necessary measures before the warranty expires.

[0165] Accordingly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the server (200) can automatically determine whether a product is normal by utilizing smart diagnostic results, and can selectively provide guidance only to those eligible for extended warranty subscription based on the determination result. Accordingly, restrictions on subscription for abnormal products and the occurrence of unnecessary service costs can be prevented.

[0166] An electronic device (100) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a display (180); a network interface communicating with a server (200); a wireless communication interface (173) communicating with an external device (300); and a controller (170) that acquires information of the external device and the time of reception of the communication signal based on a communication signal received from the external device (300), transmits the acquired information of the external device (300) and the time of reception to the server (200) through the network interface (133), receives a notification signal from the server (200), and displays a user notification including assurance information of the external device (300) on the display (180) based on the notification signal.

[0167] The controller (170) can receive the notification signal from the server after a preset period from the time of purchase of the external device generated based on the time of reception.

[0168] The aforementioned pre-set period may be a period determined based on the time of purchase and the warranty period of the external device.

[0169] The above warranty information may include one or more of the following: the warranty period of the external device, whether the warranty of the external device has expired, the remaining warranty period of the external device, the time of warranty expiration of the external device, or information encouraging subscription to an extended warranty.

[0170] The above controller (170) can display the user notification on the banner area or widget setting area of ​​the display.

[0171] The controller (170) may change one or more of the display position, size, color, display cycle of the user notification, or the size of the QR code that provides access to a site for inducing subscription to the extended warranty included in the user notification, depending on the remaining warranty period of the external device included in the warranty information.

[0172] The above controller (170) can change the form of the QR code that provides access to a site for inducing subscription to the extended warranty included in the user notification, depending on the type of the external device.

[0173] The above notification signal may include warranty information for a plurality of external devices, and the user notification may include a plurality of group notifications classified by group according to the remaining warranty period included in the warranty information, and each group notification may include one or more device images identifying one or more external devices and a QR code for subscribing to a collective extended warranty for the one or more external devices.

[0174] The above notification signal may include warranty information for a plurality of external devices, and the controller (170) may display the timeline-based user notification on the display based on the warranty information, and the user notification may include a plurality of device images corresponding to the plurality of external devices arranged in order on the timeline according to the remaining warranty period based on the timeline and the warranty expiration time.

[0175] When any one of the plurality of device images is selected, the controller (170) may display a link or QR code for subscribing to an extended warranty of an external device corresponding to the selected device image.

[0176] The controller (170) can transmit the notification signal containing the warranty information to the external device through the wireless communication interface (173).

[0177] The above communication signal may be an advertising signal broadcast via Bluetooth.

[0178] The above communication signal is received via the above Wi-Fi standard and may be a signal indicating that the external device is registered with the Wi-Fi network.

[0179] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the above-described method can be implemented as code that is readable by a processor on a medium on which a program is recorded. Examples of media that are readable by a processor include ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, optical data storage device, etc.

[0180] The electronic device described above is not limited to the configuration and method of the embodiments described above; rather, all or part of each embodiment may be selectively combined to allow for various modifications to be made.

Claims

1. In an electronic device, display; Network interface communicating with the server; A wireless communication interface that communicates with an external device; and A controller comprising: acquiring information of an external device and the time of reception of the communication signal based on a communication signal received from the external device; transmitting the acquired information of the external device and the time of reception to the server through the network interface; receiving a notification signal from the server; and displaying a user notification including warranty information of the external device on the display based on the notification signal. Electronic device.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above controller Receiving the notification signal from the server after a preset period from the time of purchase of the external device generated based on the above reception time Electronic device.

3. In Paragraph 2, The period previously set above A period determined based on the above purchase time and the warranty period of the above external device Electronic device.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above warranty information Includes one or more of the warranty period of the external device, whether the warranty of the external device has expired, the remaining warranty period of the external device, the time of warranty expiration of the external device, or information inducing subscription to an extended warranty. Electronic device.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above controller Display the above user notification on the banner area or widget settings area of ​​the above display Electronic device.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above controller Changing one or more of the display location, size, color, display cycle of the user notification, or the size of the QR code providing access to a site for inducing subscription to the extended warranty included in the user notification, depending on the remaining warranty period of the external device included in the warranty information above. Electronic device.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above controller Changing the form of the QR code that provides access to a site for inducing subscription to the extended warranty included in the user notification according to the type of the external device above. Electronic device.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above notification signal is Includes warranty information for multiple external devices, and The above user notification is It includes multiple group notifications classified by group according to the remaining warranty period included in the above warranty information, and Each group notification is One or more device images identifying one or more external devices and a QR code for subscribing to a collective extended warranty of said one or more external devices Electronic device.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above notification signal is Includes warranty information for multiple external devices, and The above controller Based on the above warranty information, the timeline-based user notification is displayed on the above display, and The above user notification is A timeline, comprising a plurality of device images corresponding to the plurality of external devices arranged sequentially on the timeline according to the remaining warranty period based on the warranty expiration date. Electronic device.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above controller When any one of the plurality of device images above is selected, a link or QR code for subscribing to an extended warranty of an external device corresponding to the selected device image is displayed. Electronic device.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above controller Transmitting the notification signal including the warranty information to the external device through the wireless communication interface Electronic device.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above communication signal is an advertising signal broadcast via Bluetooth Electronic device.

13. In Paragraph 1, The above communication signal is A signal received via the above Wi-Fi standard and indicating that the external device is registered with the Wi-Fi network. Electronic device.

14. In a method of providing warranty information for an electronic device product, A step of receiving a communication signal from an external device; A step of obtaining information of the external device and the time of reception of the communication signal based on the received communication signal; A step of transmitting the information of the external device obtained above and the time of reception above to a server; A step of receiving a notification signal from the above server; and A step comprising displaying a user notification including warranty information of the external device based on the above notification signal. method.

15. In a non-transient recording medium storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by a device, cause said device to perform a method, The above method A step of receiving a communication signal from an external device; A step of obtaining information of the external device and the time of reception of the communication signal based on the received communication signal; A step of transmitting the information of the external device obtained above and the time of reception above to a server; A step of receiving a notification signal from the above server; and A step comprising displaying a user notification including warranty information of the external device based on the above notification signal. Non-temporary recording media.

Images