Electronic device and operation method thereof

Abstract

This electronic device receives, using an input device, a user input corresponding to selection of a first source device from among one or more source devices corresponding to content provision, and, when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is possible, controls that the source device corresponding to the content provision is changed to the first source device while maintaining the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device.

Description

Electronic device and method of operation thereof

[0001] The disclosed embodiment relates to an electronic device and a method of operating the same, and more specifically, to an electronic device and a method of operating the same that facilitates the connection between an input device and a source device when switching a source device that provides content to the electronic device.

[0002] When switching the source to a game console while using a display product such as a TV or monitor that supports cloud gaming, users may find it difficult to realize that they need to reconnect the gamepad used during the cloud game. If the source is switched from the TV to the game console in response to a request, the game console screen is displayed on the TV after the switch. However, since the input device remains connected to the TV, the user is unable to control the current screen using the input device they were previously operating. Consequently, users may experience inconvenience as their previously used input device ceases to function after the source switch. Furthermore, in this case, there may be the inconvenience of having to retrieve an input device capable of operating the TV, such as a remote control, to switch the source again.

[0003] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a communication unit, a memory containing one or more instructions, and at least one processor.

[0004] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by at least one processor, the electronic device may receive user input through an input device that corresponds to the selection of a first source device among one or more source devices corresponding to content provision.

[0005] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by at least one processor, if key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device, the electronic device may control the source device corresponding to the content provision to be changed to the first source device while maintaining the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device may include receiving a user input through an input device that corresponds to the selection of a first source device among one or more source devices corresponding to content provision.

[0007] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device may include, if key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device, an operation of controlling the source device corresponding to the provision of content to be changed to the first source device while maintaining the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device.

[0008] According to one embodiment, in a non-transient computer-readable recording medium comprising one or more instructions executed by at least one processor of an electronic device, when the one or more instructions are executed by the at least one processor, the electronic device receives a user input through an input device corresponding to the selection of a first source device among one or more source devices corresponding to content provision, and if key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device, the electronic device may control the source device corresponding to content provision to the first source device while maintaining the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device.

[0009] The present invention can be easily understood from the combination of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, where reference numerals denote structural elements.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a reference diagram for illustrating an example of a system for switching a source device that provides content according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a system including an electronic device, an input device, and a first source device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a specific block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 4 shows a flowchart of an example of a method of operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5 is an example of a key code conversion table according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a reference diagram for explaining the key code conversion operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 is an example of a method of operation of an electronic device in which the input device supports a source switching function when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a notice indicating that reconnection of an input device is required according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a source switching operation in which the input device supports a source switching function when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 10 is an example of a method of operation of an electronic device in which the input device does not support a source switching function when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a source switching operation in which the input device does not support a source switching function when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 12 is an example of a method of operation of an electronic device in which the input device supports a network connection when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a source switching operation in which the input device supports a network connection when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 14 is an example of a method of operation of an electronic device in which the input device is available only to the electronic device when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0024] The terms used in this specification will be briefly explained, and the invention will be described in detail.

[0025] The terms used in this invention have been selected based on currently widely used general terms, taking into account their functions within the invention; however, these terms may vary depending on the intent of those skilled in the art, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Additionally, in specific cases, terms have been arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in this invention should be defined not merely by their names, but based on their meanings and the overall content of the invention.

[0026] When a part of a specification is described as "including" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components. Furthermore, terms such as "...part" or "module" as used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and this may be implemented in hardware or software, or as a combination of hardware and software.

[0027] The following describes embodiments with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and similar parts throughout the specification are denoted by similar reference numerals.

[0028] In the embodiments of this specification, the term "user" refers to a person who controls the function or operation of a computing device or electronic device using a control device, and may include a viewer, an administrator, or an installation technician.

[0029] In the embodiments of the present specification, the key code may include a key value corresponding to each button in correspondence with one or more buttons provided in an input device that provides input to an electronic device.

[0030] In the embodiments of this specification, key code conversion may include converting a key code corresponding to an input signal received from an input device into a key code that a source device can interpret.

[0031] In the embodiments of the present specification, whether key code conversion is possible can be determined based on whether a plurality of key code conversion tables, which enable key code conversion between one or more input devices and one or more source devices, include a key code conversion table corresponding to an input device and a source device connected to an electronic device.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a reference diagram illustrating an example of a system for switching a source device that provides content according to one embodiment.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, the electronic device 100 can perform content playback operations by receiving content from a cloud server connected to the Internet or by using content of the electronic device 100 itself. The electronic device 100 can be connected to an input device 200 for controlling content playback, receive input for controlling content playback from the connected input device 200, and perform content playback control based on the received input.

[0034] Upon receiving a switching request from a source providing content to the electronic device 100, the electronic device 100 may output a user interface 10 for switching input sources. The user interface may include one or more items representing source devices. The items representing source devices included in the user interface 10 may be items representing source devices currently connected to the electronic device 100. Depending on user input selecting an item representing a source device, the electronic device 100 may perform an operation to switch the input source to the selected source device. For example, referring to FIG. 1, the user interface 10 may include an item 11 representing a first source device, an item 12 representing a second source device, and an item 13 representing a third source device. When the electronic device 100 receives user input selecting an item 11 representing a first source device, the electronic device 100 may perform an operation to switch the input source of the electronic device 100 to the first source device 300. When the electronic device 100 receives user input selecting item 12 representing a second source device, it can perform an operation to switch the input source of the electronic device 100 to the second source device 350. When the electronic device 100 receives user input selecting item 13 representing a third source device, it can perform an operation to switch the input source of the electronic device 100 to the third source device 360.

[0035] In this way, after the electronic device 100 performs the operation of switching the input source to an external source device, the electronic device 100 receives and displays an output screen from the external source device. However, since the input device 200 is still connected to the electronic device 100, the input device 200 may not be prepared or in a state to control the source-switched source device.

[0036] Electronic device 100 can use a pop-up window to guide users to disconnect the connection of input device 200 from electronic device 100 because the current input device does not operate on the switched source device after switching the source device. However, if the user disconnects the connection of the current input device 200 in the controller settings after the pop-up window notification, a problem may arise in which the user cannot select source switching because the current screen can no longer be controlled.

[0037] Accordingly, the present disclosure aims to provide a method for effectively enabling a connection between a source device and an input device connected by source switching when a source switching is performed in an electronic device 100.

[0038] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 receives an input from an input device selecting a first source device among one or more source devices that provide content, determines whether key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device, and, as the key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device, can switch the source of the electronic device to the first source device while maintaining the connection state of the input device connected to the electronic device.

[0039] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 can identify whether key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device based on a key code conversion table for key code conversion between one or more input devices and one or more source devices.

[0040] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 can convert an input signal received from an input device into a key code of the first source device by switching the source of the electronic device to the first source device, and transmit the converted key code to the first source device.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the electronic device 100 can disconnect the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device and output a notification indicating that the connection of the input device to the first source device is required, as the key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is impossible.

[0042] According to one embodiment, if the key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is impossible, the electronic device 100 can disconnect the connection with the input device according to the source switching of the input device that supports the source switching function, and automatically switch the source of the electronic device to the first source device according to the disconnection from the input device.

[0043] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 can disconnect from an input device in response to an input requesting disconnection from the input device through an input device setting user interface provided by the electronic device, and can automatically switch the source of the electronic device to the first source device in response to the disconnection from the input device.

[0044] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 can identify whether the input device supports a network connection when the key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is impossible, determine whether the input device and the first source device are compatible when the input device supports a network connection, disconnect the connection with the input device when the input device and the first source device are compatible, and broadcast connection information to the first source device to cause the first source device to connect with the input device according to a disconnection event.

[0045] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 can identify whether the input device is an input device dedicated to the electronic device when the key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is impossible, and if the input device is an input device dedicated to the electronic device, switch the source to the first source device without outputting a notification.

[0046] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 can identify whether the input device is an input device dedicated to the electronic device when the key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is impossible, and if the input device is an input device dedicated to the electronic device, it can switch the source of the electronic device to the first source device upon receiving a disconnection request from the input device.

[0047] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a system including an electronic device, an input device, and a first source device according to one embodiment.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 2, the system 50 may include an electronic device 100, an input device 200, and a first source device 300.

[0049] The electronic device 100 may represent a device capable of displaying image content, video content, game content, graphic content, etc. The electronic device 100 may have a display inside the electronic device 100, or may be connected via communication to a display located outside the electronic device 100. The electronic device 100 may output or display image or content received from the first source device 300. The electronic device 100 may include various types of electronic devices capable of receiving and outputting content, such as, for example, network TV, smart TV, internet TV, web TV, IPTV, PC, smartphone, etc. The electronic device 100 may be referred to as a display device in terms of receiving and displaying content, and may also be referred to as a content receiving device, a sink device, a computing device, etc.

[0050] The electronic device 100 receives a control signal from an input device 200 that controls the electronic device 100 and can perform an operation corresponding to the received control signal. For example, the electronic device 100 can receive a control signal from the input device 200 that controls channel control, volume control, and movement of items or menus included in a graphic user interface displayed on the display of the electronic device 100, and can perform an operation corresponding to the received control signal.

[0051] The electronic device 100 can first be connected to the input device 200 via wireless communication to receive a control signal from the input device 200. Wireless communication may include, for example, Bluetooth communication, Wi-Fi communication, infrared communication, etc.

[0052] The electronic device 100 is a device capable of displaying images or data according to a user's request and may include a communication unit 110, a display 120, a memory 130, and a processor 140.

[0053] The communication unit 110 may include various communication circuits for performing communication with at least one external device. Here, 'communication' may mean the operation of transmitting and / or receiving data, signals, requests, and / or commands, etc.

[0054] The communication unit 110 can perform wired or wireless communication with at least one external device. The external device may include a first source device 300 or an input device 200.

[0055] For example, the communication unit 110 may include at least one of a communication module, a communication circuit, a communication device, an input / output port, and an input / output plug for performing wired or wireless communication with at least one external device.

[0056] For example, the communication unit 110 may include at least one wireless communication module, wireless communication circuit, or wireless communication device that performs wireless communication with at least one external device.

[0057] For example, the communication unit 110 may include a short-range communication module, for example, an IR (infrared) communication module, capable of receiving control commands from a remote controller located at a short distance, for example, an input device 200. In this case, the communication unit 110 may receive control signals from the remote controller.

[0058] As another example, the communication unit 110 may include at least one communication module that performs communication according to wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), NFC / RFID, Wi-Fi Direct, UWB, or ZIGBEE. Alternatively, the communication unit 110 may further include a communication module that performs communication with a server to support long-distance communication according to long-distance communication standards. For example, the communication unit 110 may include a communication module that performs communication through a network for internet communication. Additionally, the communication unit 110 may include a communication module that performs communication through a communication network according to communication standards such as 3G, 4G, 5G and / or 6G.

[0059] As another example, the communication unit 110 may include at least one port for connecting to an external device via a wired cable in order to communicate with an external device via a wired connection. For example, the communication unit 110 may include at least one of an HDMI port (High-Definition Multimedia Interface port), a component jack, a PC port, and a USB port. Accordingly, the communication unit 110 can perform communication with an external device connected via a wired connection through at least one port. Here, the port may refer to a physical device configuration capable of connecting or inserting a cable, a communication line, or a plug, etc.

[0060] As described above, the communication unit 110 may include at least one support element for supporting communication between the electronic device 100 and an external device. Here, the support element may include the aforementioned communication module, communication circuit, communication device, port (for input / output of data), cable port (for input / output of data), plug (for input / output of data), etc. For example, at least one support element included in the communication interface 110 may be an Ethernet communication module, a Wi-Fi communication module, a Bluetooth communication module, an IR communication module, a USB port, a tuner (or broadcast receiver), an HDMI port, a DP (display port), a DVI (digital visual interface) port, etc.

[0061] Display 120 can output images or data processed by electronic device 100. In FIG. 2, electronic device 100 is shown as including display 120, but is not necessarily limited thereto. Electronic device 100 may not include display 120 or may include only a simple display for notifications, etc. In this case, electronic device 100 can output video to a separate TV or monitor through a video / audio output port, etc. Additionally, electronic device 100 can output video to a TV or monitor through wireless communication, etc.

[0062] Display 120 can display video content from various sources. For example, Display 120 can receive and display video content from various sources such as a tuner, HDMI, and OTT.

[0063] Memory 130 can store programs for processing and controlling processor 140, and can store data input to or output from electronic device 100. In addition, memory 130 can store data necessary for the operation of electronic device 100.

[0064] Memory 130 may include at least one type of storage medium among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), RAM (Random Access Memory), SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0065] Processor 140 controls the overall operation of electronic device 100. For example, processor 140 can perform the functions of electronic device 100 described in this disclosure by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130.

[0066] Processor 140 may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, the term "processor" as used herein, including in the claims, may include at least one processor and various processing circuits. In at least one processor, one or more processors may be configured to perform the various functions described herein in a distributed manner, individually and / or collectively. As used herein, "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" may be configured to perform various functions. However, these terms cover, for example but without limitation, situations where one processor performs some of the functions and other processor(s) perform other parts of the functions, and situations where a single processor can perform all functions. Additionally, at least one processor may include a combination of processors performing various functions of the disclosed functions in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to achieve or perform various functions.

[0067] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 140 stores one or more instructions in an internally provided memory and can control the operation of a display device to be performed by executing one or more instructions stored in the internally provided memory. That is, the processor 140 can perform a predetermined operation by executing at least one instruction or program stored in an internal memory or memory 130 provided within the processor 140.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can perform the operation of the electronic device 100 disclosed in the present disclosure by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can receive an input from an input device to select a first source device among one or more source devices providing content by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can determine whether key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can switch the source of the electronic device to the first source device while maintaining the connection state of the input device connected to the electronic device by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130, thereby enabling the key code conversion between the input device and the first source device.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can identify whether key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device based on a key code conversion table for key code conversion between one or more input devices and one or more source devices by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can convert an input signal received from the input device into a key code of the first source device and transmit the converted key code to the first source device by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130, thereby switching the source of the electronic device to the first source device.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can, by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130, disconnect the input device connected to the electronic device as the key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is impossible, and output a notification indicating that the input device is required to be connected to the first source device.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can execute one or more instructions stored in memory 130, and if the key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is impossible, disconnect the connection with the input device according to the source switching of the input device that supports the source switching function, and automatically switch the source of the electronic device to the first source device according to the disconnection with the input device.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can disconnect the connection with the input device in response to an input requesting disconnection from the input device through an input device setting user interface provided by the electronic device by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130, and can automatically switch the source of the electronic device to the first source device in response to the disconnection from the input device.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can execute one or more instructions stored in memory 130 to identify whether the input device supports a network connection when the key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is impossible, determine whether the input device and the first source device are compatible when the input device supports a network connection, disconnect the connection with the input device when the input device and the first source device are compatible, and broadcast connection information to the first source device to cause the first source device to connect with the input device according to a disconnection event.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can identify whether the input device is an input device dedicated to the electronic device by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130 when the key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is impossible, and if the input device is an input device dedicated to the electronic device, the source can be switched to the first source device without outputting a notification.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can identify whether the input device is an input device dedicated to the electronic device by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130 when the key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is impossible.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the processor 140 can switch the source of the electronic device to the first source device by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130, when the input device is an input device dedicated to the electronic device, upon receiving a disconnection request from the input device.

[0081] The block diagram of the electronic device 100 illustrated in FIG. 2 is a block diagram for one embodiment. Each component of the block diagram may be integrated, added, or omitted according to the specifications of the actual implemented electronic device 100. For example, 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. Furthermore, the functions performed in each block are intended to explain the embodiments, and the specific operations or devices thereof do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0082] Although the electronic device 100 in FIG. 2 is illustrated as including a display, it is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device 100 may be a device that provides content to an external display device including a display. The content may include images, videos, audio, text, games, applications, etc., but is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device 100 may include a set-top box (STB), a Blu-ray disc player, a digital versatile disc player, a game console, a digital camera, a camcorder, a streaming device, a home theater, etc. In this case, the electronic device 100 may be configured to be connected to the external display device through an input / output section such as an HDMI port to transmit video / audio signals to the external display device. Alternatively, the electronic device 100 may be connected to the external display device through short-range wireless communication or long-range wireless communication such as wired communication, wireless LAN (W-LAN), Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth.

[0083] The input device 200 may include a communication unit 210, a user input unit 220, a memory 230, and a processor 240. However, the electronic device 200 may be implemented by more components than those illustrated and is not limited to the examples described above.

[0084] The communication unit 210 may include various communication circuits included in one or more modules that enable wireless communication between the input device 200 and a wireless communication system or between the input device 200 and a network where another device is located. According to one embodiment, the communication unit 210 may perform communication with an external device according to a short-range communication technology. The short-range communication technology may include, for example, Bluetooth communication, Wi-Fi communication, infrared communication, etc. The communication unit 210 may include, for example, at least one of a Bluetooth communication module, a Wi-Fi communication module, and an infrared communication module.

[0085] The user input unit 220 can be any type of interface means capable of receiving user input. For example, the user input unit 220 may include an operation button arranged in part of the input device 200 to receive user input, a touch-sensitive display configured to detect touch input, a microphone capable of receiving voice utterance input from the user, etc. For example, when a voice signal corresponding to user input is received using the microphone of the input device 200, such voice signal may be converted into a digital signal and transmitted to an electronic device 100 using Bluetooth communication or Wi-Fi communication, etc.

[0086] According to one embodiment, if the input device 300 supports a source switching function, the user input unit 220 may include one or more buttons that enable connection to a source device. For example, the user input unit 220 may include a first button that enables automatic connection to an electronic device 100 and a second button that enables automatic connection to a first source device 300. Depending on the user input of pressing the first button, the processor 240 may control the communication unit 210 to establish a communication connection to the electronic device 100. Depending on the user input of pressing the second button, the processor 240 may control the communication unit 210 to establish a communication connection to the first source device 300.

[0087] Memory 230 can store a program for processing and controlling the processor 240, and can store data that is input to or output from the input device 200.

[0088] Memory 230 may include at least one type of storage medium among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), RAM (Random Access Memory), SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0089] Processor 240 is intended to control the overall operation of input device 200 and may include various processing circuits. For example, processor 240 may perform the function of input device 200 described in this disclosure by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 230.

[0090] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 240 stores one or more instructions in an internally provided memory and can control the execution of the one or more instructions stored in the internally provided memory to perform the aforementioned operations. That is, the processor 240 can perform a predetermined operation by executing at least one instruction or program stored in an internal memory or memory 220 provided within the processor 240.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the processor 240 can control the communication unit 210 to establish a communication connection with the electronic device 100 by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 230.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the processor 240 can control the communication unit 210 to establish a communication connection with the first source device 300 by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 230.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the processor 240 can control the communication unit 210 to transmit a control signal, input data, or key code corresponding to a user input received through the user input unit 220 to the electronic device 100 by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 230.

[0094] Meanwhile, the block diagram of the input device 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 is a block diagram for one embodiment. Each component of the block diagram may be integrated, added, or omitted according to the specifications of the content providing server 200 actually implemented. For example, if necessary, two or more components may be combined into a single component, or a single component may be subdivided into two or more components. Furthermore, the functions performed in each block are intended to explain the embodiments, and the specific operations or devices thereof do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0095] The first source device 300 can transmit and receive data and / or content by connecting to the electronic device 100 via a wired or wireless connection. The content that the first source device 300 can provide to the electronic device 100 may include video content, audio content, or game content, etc.

[0096] The first source device 300 is located near the electronic device 100 and may be connected to the electronic device 100 via a wired connection, such as through an HDMI interface, or wirelessly via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth communication, which are short-range communication technologies. The first source device 300 may include, for example, an external input device that is connected to the electronic device 100 via a cable or the like to provide video via wired communication. The external input device may include various types of electronic devices capable of providing content to the electronic device 100, such as, for example, a set-top box, a DVD player, a Blu-ray disc player, a PC, a game console, etc. The first source device 300 and the electronic device 100 may perform content transmission and reception by being connected through various connection means. Various connection means may include, for example, a cable, and the first source device 300 and the electronic device 100 may include one or more ports for cable connection. One or more ports may include digital input interfaces such as, for example, an HDMI port, a DisplayPort, or Type-C. For example, the first source device 300 and the electronic device 100 may each be equipped with an HDMI port and can perform communication through the said port.

[0097] The first source device 300 may include a communication unit 310, a memory 320, and a processor 330. However, the first source device 300 may be implemented by more components than those illustrated and is not limited to the examples described above.

[0098] The communication unit 310 may include various communication circuits included in one or more modules that enable wireless communication between the first source device 300 and a wireless communication system or between the first source device 300 and a network where another device is located.

[0099] Memory 320 can store a program for processing and controlling the processor 330, and can store data that is input to or output from the first source device 300.

[0100] Memory 320 may include at least one type of storage medium among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), RAM (Random Access Memory), SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0101] Processor 330 includes various processing circuits for controlling the overall operation of the first source device 300. For example, processor 330 can perform the functions of the first source device 300 described in this disclosure by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 320.

[0102] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 330 may store one or more instructions in an internally provided memory and control the execution of one or more instructions stored in the internally provided memory to perform the aforementioned operations. That is, the processor 330 may perform a predetermined operation by executing at least one instruction or program stored in an internal memory or memory 320 provided within the processor 330.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the processor 330 can control the communication unit 310 to establish a communication connection with the electronic device 100 by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 320.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the processor 330 can control the communication unit 310 to transmit content to a communication-connected electronic device 100 by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 320.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the processor 330 can receive a key code obtained from an electronic device 100 based on a key input from an input device 200 by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 320.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the processor 330 can execute a content application based on a key code received from an electronic device 100 by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 320, and transmit an execution result screen to the electronic device 100.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the processor 330 can control the communication unit 310 to establish a communication connection with the input device 200 by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 320.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the processor 330 can receive a key code corresponding to a key input from a communication-connected input device 200 by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 320.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the processor 330 can execute a content application based on a key code received from an input device 200 by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 320, and transmit the execution result screen to an electronic device 100.

[0110] The block diagram of the first source device 300 illustrated in FIG. 2 is a block diagram for one embodiment. Each component of the block diagram may be integrated, added, or omitted according to the specifications of the first source device 300 actually implemented. For example, if necessary, two or more components may be combined into a single component, or a single component may be subdivided into two or more components. Furthermore, the functions performed in each block are for the purpose of describing embodiments, and the specific operations or devices thereof do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0111] FIG. 3 is a specific block diagram of an electronic device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 3, the electronic device 100 may further include a communication unit 110, a display 120, a memory 130, and a processor 140, as well as an image processing unit 150, an audio processing unit 160, an audio output unit 170, and a sensing unit 180.

[0113] The communication unit 110 may include a wireless communication unit 111 and a wired communication unit 115.

[0114] The wireless communication unit 111 may include one or more modules that enable wireless communication. For example, the wireless communication unit 111 may include a mobile communication module 112, a wireless internet module 113, and a short-range communication module 114.

[0115] A mobile communication module 112 transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network. The wireless signals may include various forms of data such as voice call signals, video call call signals, or text / multimedia message transmission and reception.

[0116] Wireless Internet Module 113 refers to a module for wireless internet access, which can be embedded in or externally mounted on a device. Wireless Internet technologies that may be used include WLAN (Wireless LAN) (Wi-Fi), Wibro (Wireless broadband), WiMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access), and HSDPA (High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access). Through the above wireless Internet Module 113, the device can establish a Wi-Fi P2P (Peer to Peer) connection with another device.

[0117] A short-range communication module 114 refers to a module for short-range communication. Short-range communication technologies that can be used include Bluetooth, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), infrared communication (IrDA, infrared Data Association), UWB (Ultra Wideband), and ZigBee.

[0118] The wired communication unit 115 may include one of an HDMI port (High-Definition Multimedia Interface port, 116), a component jack (117), a PC port (118), and a USB port (119), or one or more combinations thereof. In addition to the HDMI port, the wired communication unit 115 may further include a DisplayPort (DP), Thunderbolt, and MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link). For example, the wired communication unit 115 may be connected to a first source device 300 using the HDMI port 116 or the USB port 119, and may receive content such as video audio from the connected first source device 300.

[0119] The display 120 can display the video signal received from the video processing unit 150 on the screen.

[0120] The image processing unit 150 can process an image signal received from the communication unit 110 under the control of the processor 140 and output it to the display 120.

[0121] The audio processing unit 160 can convert an audio signal received from the communication unit 110 into an analog audio signal and output it to the audio output unit 170 under the control of the processor 140.

[0122] The audio output unit 170 can output audio (e.g., voice, sound) input through the communication unit 110. Additionally, the audio output unit 170 can output audio stored in memory 130 under the control of the processor 140. The audio output unit 170 may include at least one of a speaker, a headphone output terminal, or an S / PDIF (Sony / Philips Digital Interface) output terminal, or a combination thereof.

[0123] The detection unit 180 detects the user's voice, the user's image, or the user's interaction, and may include a microphone 181, a camera 182, and an optical receiver 183.

[0124] Microphone 181 receives a user's uttered voice. Microphone 181 can convert the received voice into an electrical signal and output it to processor 140. The user voice may include, for example, a voice corresponding to a menu or function of electronic device 100. Microphone 181 can receive a user's voice command to control electronic device 100 or a first source device 300.

[0125] The microphone 181 is not limited to embodiments embedded in the electronic device 100 itself. The microphone 181 may be provided in a remote controller for controlling the electronic device 100. For example, a user's voice signal may be received through a microphone provided in the remote controller, and the remote controller may digitize the voice signal and transmit it to the electronic device 100 via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communication.

[0126] Alternatively, a remote controller application may be installed on a portable terminal such as a smartphone, and the electronic device 100 may be controlled or voice recognition functions may be performed through such application. In this case, the portable terminal such as a smartphone may receive a user's voice signal using a provided microphone, digitize it, and transmit it to the electronic device 100 via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communication. The portable terminal may include a device capable of operating by installing an AI speaker or other applications in addition to a smartphone.

[0127] Camera 182 can receive images (e.g., consecutive frames) corresponding to a user's motion including a gesture within the camera recognition range. Processor 140 can use the recognition result of the received motion to select a menu displayed on electronic device 100 or perform control corresponding to the motion recognition result.

[0128] The optical receiver 183 receives an optical signal (including a control signal) received from an external control device. The optical receiver 183 can receive an optical signal corresponding to user input (e.g., touch, press, touch gesture, voice, or motion) from the control device. A control signal can be extracted from the received optical signal under the control of the processor 140.

[0129] Processor 140 controls the overall operation of electronic device 100 and the signal flow between internal components of electronic device 100, and performs the function of processing data. When there is user input or when a pre-set stored condition is satisfied, processor 140 can execute an OS (Operation System) and various applications stored in memory 130.

[0130] Processor 140 may include a graphic processing unit (not shown) for graphic processing corresponding to video. The graphic processing unit (not shown) generates a screen containing various objects such as icons, images, and text using a computation unit (not shown) and a rendering unit (not shown). The computation unit calculates attribute values ​​such as coordinate values, shape, size, and color for each object to be displayed according to the screen layout using user interaction detected through a detection unit (not shown). The rendering unit generates a screen of various layouts containing objects based on the attribute values ​​calculated by the computation unit.

[0131] Memory 130 can store programs related to the operation of electronic device 100 and various data generated during the operation of electronic device 100.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the memory 130 may include a source connection management module 131 and a key code conversion table 132. Using such a source connection management module 131 and a key code conversion table 132, the electronic device 100 can perform operations according to the embodiments disclosed in this disclosure.

[0133] The source connection management module 131 may include one or more instructions that handle the switching of the source when a request to switch the source of the electronic device 100 is received, and also manage the connection between the source device and the input device.

[0134] The source connection management module 131 may include one or more instructions that, upon receiving a request to switch sources, determine whether key code conversion is possible between the source device requested to switch and the input device, and perform an appropriate action based on the result of the determination.

[0135] When the source connection management module 131 receives a request to switch sources, it can determine whether key code conversion is possible between the source device requested to switch and the input device based on the key code conversion table 132.

[0136] The source connection management module 131 can switch the source of the electronic device to the source device requested for switching while maintaining the connection of the input device when key code conversion is possible between the source device and the input device.

[0137] The source connection management module 131 may include one or more instructions that, when receiving an input signal from an input device 200 in a case where key code conversion is possible between a source device and an input device, convert the received input signal from the input device 200 into a key code that can be interpreted by the source device converted according to the source conversion by referring to the key code conversion table 132.

[0138] The source connection management module 131 can perform various operations disclosed in this disclosure for connecting the input device and the source device when key code conversion between the source device and the input device is not possible.

[0139] Processor 140 controls the overall operation of electronic device 100. For example, processor 140 can perform the functions of electronic device 100 described in this disclosure by executing one or more instructions stored in memory 130.

[0140] According to one embodiment, when a request to switch sources is received by executing one or more instructions included in a source connection management module 131, the processor 140 can determine whether key code conversion is possible between the source device requested to switch and the input device, and perform an appropriate operation according to the result of the determination.

[0141] FIG. 4 shows a flowchart of an example of a method of operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 4, in operation 410, the electronic device 100 can output a user interface that displays one or more source devices providing content.

[0143] A source device may represent a device connected to electronic device 100 to provide content to the electronic device. For example, electronic device 100 may output a user interface displaying one or more source devices connected to electronic device 100. A source device may include, for example, a game console capable of providing game content to electronic device 100. For example, electronic device 100 may output a user interface displaying one or more game consoles connected to electronic device 100.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the user interface may include items representing one or more source devices that provide content.

[0145] In operation 420, the electronic device 100 can receive an input signal from the input device to select a first source device based on a user interface.

[0146] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 can receive an input signal from an input device 200 for selecting an item representing a first source device 300 among items representing one or more source devices included in a user interface.

[0147] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 can receive an input signal from an input device 200 using at least one of Wi-Fi communication technology, Bluetooth communication technology, infrared communication technology, and USB communication technology.

[0148] In operation 430, the electronic device 100 can determine whether key code conversion is possible between the input device 200 and the first source device 300 selected by the input device 200.

[0149] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 can determine whether key code conversion is possible between an input device 200 and a first source device 300 based on identification information of an input device 200 and identification information of a first source device 300. The identification information of the input device 200 may include at least one of manufacturer information, model information, and version information of the input device 200. The identification information of the first source device 300 may include at least one of manufacturer information, model information, and version information of the first source device 300.

[0150] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 can determine whether key code conversion is possible between an input device 200 and a first source device 300 selected by the input device 200 using a key code conversion table. The key code conversion table is described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0151] FIG. 5 is an example of a key code conversion table according to one embodiment.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 5, the key code conversion table 500 may include a plurality of key code conversion tables that enable key code conversion between one or more input devices and one or more source devices. A key code represents a key value corresponding to each button, corresponding to one or more buttons provided on the input device. For example, when button #1 is pressed on the input device, the input device may transmit the key code corresponding to button #1 to the device under control that the input device intends to control. The device under control may perform an operation corresponding to the received key code. In this case, if the device under control can understand the received key code, it may perform an operation corresponding to the key code in this manner; however, if the device under control cannot understand the received key code, the device under control will not be able to perform an operation corresponding to the key code. For example, if both the input device and the source device are products from the same manufacturer, the input device and the source device will use the same key code, so the key code corresponding to the input signal received from the input device can be directly transmitted to the source device and used. However, if the input device and the source device are products from different manufacturers, or if they have different models or versions, they may not use the same key code. Therefore, in this case, the key code corresponding to the input signal received from the input device can be converted into a key code that the source device can interpret, and the converted key code can be provided to the source device.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 5, for example, a key code conversion table 500 may include a table for key code conversion between a first input device, a second input device, a third input device and a first source device, a second source device, and a third source device. Since the key code is shared between the first input device and the first source device, between the second input device and the second source device, and between the third input device and the third source device, a separate conversion table may not be required. The key code conversion table 500 may include a first input device-second source device key code conversion table 510 for converting a key code from a first input device to a key code of a second source device, a first input device-third source device key code conversion table 520 for converting a key code from a first input device to a key code of a third source device, a second input device-first source device key code conversion table 530 for converting a key code from a second input device to a key code of a first source device, a second input device-third source device key code conversion table 540 for converting a key code from a second input device to a key code of a third source device, a third input device-first source device key code conversion table 550 for converting a key code from a third input device to a key code of a first source device, and a third input device-second source device key code conversion table 560 for converting a key code from a third input device to a key code of a second source device.

[0154] The electronic device 100 can determine whether key code conversion is possible between the input device 200 and the first source device 300 selected by the input device 200 by using the key code conversion table 500. For example, if the input device 200 is the second input device, the electronic device 100 can find the second input device-first source device key code conversion table 530 from the key code conversion table 500, so the electronic device 100 can determine that key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device 300. If the input device 200 or the first source device 300 is not included in the key code conversion table 500, the electronic device 100 can determine that key code conversion is not possible between the input device 200 and the first source device 300.

[0155] Returning to Fig. 4, in operation 430, if the electronic device 100 determines that key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible, the process can proceed to operation (A).

[0156] If the electronic device 100 determines that key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device, it can proceed to operation 440.

[0157] In operation 440, since key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device, the electronic device 100 can perform an operation of switching the source of the electronic device 100 to the first source device while maintaining the connection state of the input device 200 connected to the electronic device 100. That is, since key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device, the electronic device 100 can convert a key code corresponding to an input signal received from the input device 200 into a key code that the first source device can understand and provide it to the first source device 300. That is, since the electronic device 100 can act as an intermediary to transmit key codes between the input device 200 and the first source device 300, the electronic device 100 can switch the source to the first source device 300 while maintaining the connection of the input device 200.

[0158] FIG. 6 is a reference diagram for explaining the key code conversion operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 6, an electronic device 100 can be connected to an input device 200 to receive an input signal from the input device 200. For example, the electronic device 100 can be connected to the input device 200 via various wireless communication technologies. For example, the electronic device 100 can be connected via wireless communication technologies such as Wi-Fi communication, Bluetooth communication, USB communication, and infrared communication.

[0160] The electronic device 100 can play various content according to an input signal from the input device 200. For example, the electronic device 100 can play game content stored inside the electronic device 100 or cloud game content provided by a cloud server according to an input signal from the input device 200. In this way, the electronic device 100 receives an input signal from the input device 200 connected to the electronic device 100 and performs the operation of playing content, and may receive a request to switch the source device. For example, the electronic device 100 may output a user interface 10 for switching the input source as shown in FIG. 1. When the electronic device 100 receives an input from the input device 200 to select a first source device based on such a user interface 10, the electronic device 100 can determine whether key code conversion is possible between the input device 200 and the first source device 300.

[0161] When determining whether key code conversion is possible, if it is determined that key code conversion is possible, the electronic device 100 can switch the source to the first source device 300 selected according to the input device 200. That is, when the electronic device 100 is capable of key code conversion, the electronic device 100 can receive an input signal from the input device 200, convert it to a key code, and provide it to the first source device 300 without the need for a direct connection between the input device 200 and the first source device 300; therefore, the electronic device 100 only needs to switch the source of the electronic device 100 to the first source device 300 without any additional operation.

[0162] In this way, after the electronic device 100 converts the source of the electronic device 100 to the first source device 300, the electronic device 100 can receive and display content or a screen provided by the first source device 300. In this way, a user can operate the input device 200 to control the content or screen displayed on the electronic device 100. The input device 200 can transmit an input signal corresponding to the user's operation to the electronic device 100. The electronic device 100 can convert a key code corresponding to the input signal of the input device into a key code of the first source device 300 using an input device-first source device key code conversion table, and transmit the converted key code to the first source device 300. The electronic device 100 and the first source device 300 can be connected according to various wired communication technologies or wireless communication technologies. Wired communication technologies may include, for example, HDMI communication, DVI communication, DP communication, etc. Wireless communication technologies may include, for example, Wi-Fi communication, Bluetooth communication, USB communication, etc.

[0163] In the case where key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible in operation 430 of FIG. 4, an operation to simplify the connection operation between the input device and the first source device can be performed by the electronic device 100. This will be explained with reference to FIGS. 7 to 14.

[0164] FIG. 7 is an example of a method of operation of an electronic device in which the input device supports a source switching function when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0165] The operation illustrated in FIG. 7 can be initiated when, as a result of the determination of operation 430 of FIG. 4, key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible, and the input device can be used simultaneously with the electronic device as well as the first source device.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 7, in operation 710 where key code conversion is not possible between the input device and the first source device, the electronic device 100 may output a notification indicating that the input device needs to be reconnected. That is, since key code conversion is not possible between the input device 200 and the first source device 300, control of the source device of the input device is impossible after source switching while the input device 200 is connected to the electronic device 100. Therefore, the electronic device 100 may output a notification indicating that the input device needs to be reconnected in order to inform the user of this situation. For example, an example of a notification indicating that the input device needs to be reconnected is illustrated in FIG. 8.

[0167] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a notice indicating that reconnection of an input device is required according to one embodiment.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 8, the electronic device 100 may display a notification 800 on the display indicating that reconnection of the input device is required. Specifically, the notification 800 may include a Cancel button 810 and an Input Device Settings button 820 along with a message stating, "There is an input device currently connected to the electronic device. Some input devices may not connect automatically when switching sources, so you may need to disconnect them from the current electronic device first and reconnect them to the source device. To view connected input devices, select Input Device Settings." Depending on the input selecting the Cancel button 810, the electronic device 100 may dismiss the notification 800, and depending on the input selecting the Input Device Settings button 820, the electronic device 100 may output a user interface for Input Device Settings.

[0169] Returning to Fig. 7, in operation 720, the connection with the input device can be disconnected upon receiving a disconnection request from the input device 200 in accordance with the source switching of the input device 100.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the input device 100 may be a device that supports a source switching function. The source switching function is a function provided in the input device 100, and is configured to allow for easy switching between a plurality of source devices in the input device 100. For example, a plurality of buttons may be provided in the input device 100, and a corresponding source device may be mapped to each button. For example, a first source device may be mapped to the first button, and a second source device may be mapped to the second button. The user can conveniently perform a connection to the first source device or a connection to the second source device simply by pressing the first button or the second button. To do this, the operation of connecting the first source device to the input device 200 and the operation of connecting the second source device to the input device 200 may be required in advance. For example, the input device and each source device may be connected according to a suitable communication protocol between the two. For example, when a TV is connected to an input device 200 as a source device, the input device 200 and the TV can be connected, for example, via Bluetooth communication. For example, when a game console is connected to an input device 200 as a source device, the input device 200 and the game console can be connected via an appropriate communication protocol.

[0171] In this way, when a user presses a button to select a first source device 300 using the source switching function in an input device 200 that supports source switching, the input device 200 may transmit a request to the electronic device 100 to disconnect the communication connection with the currently connected electronic device 100 for source switching. For example, if the input device 200 and the electronic device 100 are connected via Bluetooth communication, the electronic device 100 may receive a request from the input device 200 to disconnect the Bluetooth communication connection. In accordance with this request, the communication connection between the electronic device 100 and the input device 200 may be disconnected.

[0172] In operation 730, the electronic device 100 can switch the source to the first source device in response to a disconnection request from the input device 200. That is, the electronic device 100 can automatically switch the source of the electronic device 100 to the first source device by triggering a disconnection request received from the input device 200. Since the source switching operation is automatically performed by triggering a disconnection request from the input device 200 in this way, the electronic device 100 can automatically change the source even after the connection with the input device 200 is disconnected.

[0173] Since the input device 200 itself also automatically proceeds with a connection operation to the first source device 300 after disconnecting from the electronic device 100 according to the source switching function, the input device 200 can then transmit an input signal corresponding to user input to the first source device 300.

[0174] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a source switching operation in which the input device supports a source switching function when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment. Additionally, the example illustrated in FIG. 9 can be operated when the input device is simultaneously available to the electronic device as well as the first source device.

[0175] Referring to FIG. 9, when the electronic device 100 receives a request to switch from the input device 200 to the first source device, the electronic device 100 can first determine whether key code conversion is possible between the input device 200 and the first source device. At this time, if key code conversion is not possible between the input device 200 and the first source device 300, the electronic device 100 can output a notification 800 to indicate that reconnection of the input device is required.

[0176] If the input device 200 is equipped with, for example, an electronic device connection button 910 and a first source device connection button 920 to support a source switching function, the user may press the first source device connection button 920 to connect the input device 200 to the first source device 300. In response to the input of pressing the first source device connection button 920, the input device 200 may transmit a request to disconnect from the electronic device 100 to the electronic device 100.

[0177] The electronic device 100 can automatically switch the source of the electronic device 100 to a first source device by triggering a disconnection request from the input device 200. Therefore, even if the connection with the input device 200 is disconnected, the electronic device 100 can automatically switch the source to the first source device 300. In accordance with this source switching, the electronic device 100 can display a screen 900 received from the first source device 300.

[0178] Additionally, the input device 200 can perform the operation of automatically connecting the input device 200 to the first source device 300 according to the selection of the first source device connection button 920. Accordingly, the input device 200 can transmit an input signal based on user input to the first source device 300. And the first source device 300 can control or execute content based on the input signal from the input device 200 and transmit the execution result screen to the electronic device 100.

[0179] FIG. 10 is an example of a method of operation of an electronic device in which the input device does not support a source switching function when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0180] The operation illustrated in FIG. 10 can be initiated when, as a result of the determination of operation 430 of FIG. 4, key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible.

[0181] Referring to FIG. 10, in operation 1010 where key code conversion is not possible between the input device and the first source device, the electronic device 100 may output a notification indicating that the input device needs to be reconnected. That is, since key code conversion is not possible between the input device 200 and the first source device 300, control of the source device of the input device is impossible after source switching while the input device 200 is connected to the electronic device 100. Therefore, the electronic device 100 may output a notification indicating that the input device needs to be reconnected in order to inform the user of this situation. For example, an example of a notification indicating that the input device needs to be reconnected is as described with reference to FIG. 8.

[0182] In operation 1020, the electronic device 100 may receive a disconnection request signal from the input device 200 according to an input device setting menu of a user interface containing a notification output by the electronic device 100. That is, if the input device 200 does not have a source switching function, the user may operate the input device 200 to directly disconnect the input device from the electronic device. For example, if the user selects the input device setting 820 item in a user interface containing the notification 800 shown in FIG. 8, the electronic device 100 may provide a menu that allows disconnecting the input device. Based on this menu, the user may operate the input device 200 to transmit an input signal requesting the disconnection of the input device to the electronic device 100.

[0183] In operation 1030, the electronic device 100 can switch the source to the first source device in response to a disconnection request from the input device 200. That is, the electronic device 100 can automatically switch the source of the electronic device 100 to the first source device by triggering a disconnection request received from the input device 200. Since the source switching operation is automatically performed by triggering a disconnection request from the input device 200 in this way, the electronic device 100 can automatically change the source even after the connection with the input device 200 is disconnected.

[0184] And by performing an operation to disconnect the input device 200 from the electronic device 100 and then connect the input device 200 to the first source device 300, the input device 200 can then transmit an input signal corresponding to the user input to the first source device 300.

[0185] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a source switching operation in which the input device does not support a source switching function when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0186] Referring to FIG. 11, when an electronic device 100 receives a request to switch from an input device 200 to a first source device, the electronic device 100 can first determine whether key code conversion is possible between the input device 200 and the first source device. In this case, if key code conversion is not possible between the input device 200 and the first source device 300, the electronic device 100 can output a notification 800 to indicate that reconnection of the input device is required.

[0187] If the input device 200 does not support a source switching function, the user can select the input device setting item 820 of the notification 800 using the input device 200. Then, the electronic device 100 can display a user interface for input device settings. For example, the electronic device 100 can display an input device BT disconnection menu 1100 as an example of a user interface for input device settings. When the electronic device 100 receives an input signal from the input device 200 to select this input device BT disconnection menu 1100, the electronic device 100 can perform an operation to disconnect the connection with the input device 200.

[0188] The electronic device 100 can automatically switch the source of the electronic device 100 to the first source device by triggering a disconnection operation with the input device 200. Therefore, even if the connection with the input device 200 is disconnected, the electronic device 100 can automatically switch the source to the first source device 300. In accordance with such source switching, the electronic device 100 can display the screen 900 received from the first source device 300.

[0189] In addition, since the input device 200 does not have an automatic source switching function, the user may be required to perform an operation to connect the input device 200 to the first source device 300. By connecting the input device 200 to the first source device 300, the input device 200 can transmit an input signal corresponding to user input to the first source device 300. The first source device 300 can control or execute content based on the input signal from the input device 200 and transmit the execution result screen to the electronic device 100.

[0190] In this case, if there is another input device already connected to the first source device 300, it may be more convenient to keep the input device 200 connected to the electronic device 100. That is, the input device 200 connected to the electronic device 100 can be used for cloud gaming through the electronic device 100. In other words, in such a case, it may be desirable for the user to directly perform the source switching without disconnecting the input device 200 from the electronic device 100.

[0191] FIG. 12 is an example of a method of operation of an electronic device in which the input device supports a network connection when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0192] The operation illustrated in FIG. 12 can be initiated when, as a result of the determination of operation 430 of FIG. 4, key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible.

[0193] Referring to FIG. 12, in operation 1210 where key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible, the electronic device 100 can determine whether the input device 200 and the first source device 300 are compatible. If the result of the determination is that they are compatible, the process proceeds to operation 1220, and if they are not compatible, the process proceeds to operation 1230.

[0194] In operation 1230, if the input device 200 and the first source device 300 are incompatible, a notification indicating that the input device needs to be reconnected may be output. For example, the electronic device 100 may output a notification as shown in FIG. 8.

[0195] In operation 1220, the electronic device 100 can determine whether the input device 200 supports a network connection. If the result of the determination is that the network connection is supported, the process can proceed to operation 1240, and if the network connection is not supported, the process can proceed to operation 1230.

[0196] In operation 1240, the electronic device 100 can perform an operation to disconnect from the input device 200. Accordingly, in operation 1250, the electronic device 100 can send a disconnection request to the input device 200.

[0197] In operation 1260, the electronic device 100 can broadcast connection information to the first source device 300 to cause the first source device 300 to connect with the input device 200 in response to a disconnection event with the input device 200.

[0198] In operation 1270, the first source device 300 can receive connection information from the electronic device 100.

[0199] In operation 1280, the first source device 300 can transmit a connection request to the input device 200 using connection information received from the electronic device 100.

[0200] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a source switching operation in which the input device supports a network connection when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0201] Referring to FIG. 13, when an electronic device 100 receives a request to switch from an input device 200 to a first source device, the electronic device 100 can first determine whether key code conversion is possible between the input device 200 and the first source device. In this case, if key code conversion is not possible between the input device 200 and the first source device 300, the electronic device 100 can first determine whether the input device 200 and the first source device 300 are compatible and whether the input device 200 supports a network connection.

[0202] If the input device 200 and the first source device 300 are compatible and the input device 200 supports network connection, the electronic device 100 can perform an operation to disconnect the connection with the input device 200.

[0203] The electronic device 100 can automatically switch the source of the electronic device 100 to the first source device by triggering a disconnection operation with the input device 200. Additionally, the electronic device 100 can transmit connection information to the input device 200 to the first source device 300 by triggering a disconnection operation with the input device 200. Then, the first source device 300, having received the connection information, can transmit a connection request to the input device 200 using the connection information.

[0204] In this way, when the input device 200 supports a network connection, the electronic device 100 can automatically enable a connection between the input device 200 and the first source device 300 without user intervention by providing connection information for a connection to the input device 200 to the first source device 300 using a disconnection event with the input device 200 as a trigger.

[0205] FIG. 14 is an example of a method of operation of an electronic device in which the input device is available only to the electronic device when key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible according to one embodiment.

[0206] The operation illustrated in FIG. 14 may be initiated when, as a result of the determination of operation 430 of FIG. 4, key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 14, in operation 1410 where key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible, the electronic device 100 can identify that the input device 200 is a device that can only be used with the electronic device. For example, the input device 200 may be a device dedicated to the electronic device. A device dedicated to the electronic device may represent an input device used for controlling the electronic device. For example, a device dedicated to the electronic device may include a remote controller or a mobile gamepad. A mobile gamepad refers to performing input for gameplay by operating the smartphone's display screen by running an application that implements input buttons corresponding to a gamepad on a personal portable device, such as a smartphone. Typically, such a mobile gamepad may be implemented exclusively for the electronic device 100 and cannot be used with a source device such as a game console. Alternatively, there may be cases where the input device 200 currently connected to the electronic device 100 and the first source device 300 are products of different manufacturers, so the input device 200 cannot be connected to and used with the first source device 300.

[0208] In operation 1420, the electronic device 100 can switch the source to the first source device without outputting a separate notification.

[0209] That is, in cases where the input device 200 currently connected to the electronic device 100 can only be used for the electronic device 100, or where the first source device 300 cannot be controlled by the currently connected input device 200, if the electronic device 100 outputs a notification as shown in FIG. 8, the user may misunderstand that they can input to the first source device 300 using the input device 200 currently in use. Therefore, in this case, no notification is output, and the source of the electronic device 100 is simply switched to the first source device 300. After the source switch, the user can connect and use an input device that can be directly connected to the first source device 300.

[0210] If, before the source switching operation, the electronic device 100 receives a disconnection request from the input device 200 in accordance with the input of the user disconnecting the input device 200 from the electronic device 100, the electronic device 100 can perform an operation to switch the source to the first source device 300 using this disconnection request as a trigger.

[0211] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 100 may include a communication unit 110, a memory 130 containing one or more instructions, and at least one processor 140.

[0212] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 can receive user input through an input device that corresponds to the selection of a first source device among one or more source devices corresponding to content provision.

[0213] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 can change the source device corresponding to the content provision to the first source device while maintaining the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device, if key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device.

[0214] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 can identify whether key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device based on a conversion table corresponding to key code conversion between one or more input devices and one or more source devices.

[0215] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 can control the communication unit to transmit an input signal received from the input device, converted into a key code of the first source device, to the first source device when the source device corresponding to the content provision is changed to the first source device.

[0216] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 may disconnect the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device and provide information corresponding to the performance of the connection of the input device to the first source device if key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible.

[0217] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 can be controlled to disconnect from the input device based on the switching function of the input device that supports the switching function, and to automatically change the source device corresponding to the content provision to the first source device based on the disconnection from the input device.

[0218] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 can be controlled to disconnect from the input device based on user input corresponding to disconnection from the input device received through a user interface corresponding to an input device setting, and to automatically change the source device corresponding to the content provision to the first source device based on the disconnection from the input device.

[0219] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 can disconnect the connection with the input device if key code conversion is impossible between the input device and the first source device and the input device and the first source device are compatible, and control the first source device to broadcast information corresponding to the connection with the input device based on the disconnection with the input device.

[0220] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 can identify whether the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device if key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible, and if the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device, control the source device corresponding to the content provision to automatically change to the first source device.

[0221] According to one embodiment, when one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100 can identify whether the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device if key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible, and if the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device, control the source device corresponding to the content provision to automatically change to the first source device based on user input corresponding to disconnection from the input device.

[0222] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device 100 may include receiving a user input through an input device that corresponds to the selection of a first source device among one or more source devices corresponding to content provision.

[0223] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device 100 may include, if key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device, an operation to control the source device corresponding to the content provision to be changed to the first source device while maintaining the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device.

[0224] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device 100 may include an operation of identifying whether key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device based on a conversion table corresponding to key code conversion between one or more input devices and one or more source devices.

[0225] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device 100 may include, when a source device corresponding to the content provision is changed to the first source device, an operation of transmitting an input signal received from the input device converted into a key code of the first source device to the first source device.

[0226] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device 100 may include, if key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible, disconnecting the input device connected to the electronic device and providing information corresponding to performing a connection of the input device to the first source device.

[0227] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device 100 may include, if key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible, disconnecting the connection with the input device based on the switching function of the input device that supports the switching function, and controlling the source device corresponding to the content provision to automatically change to the first source device based on the disconnection with the input device.

[0228] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device 100 may include an operation of disconnecting a connection with an input device based on user input corresponding to disconnecting a connection with the input device received through a user interface corresponding to an input device setting, and an operation of controlling a source device corresponding to providing content to automatically change to the first source device based on the disconnection with the input device.

[0229] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device 100 may include, if key code conversion is impossible between the input device and the first source device and the input device and the first source device is compatible, an operation of disconnecting the connection with the input device, and an operation of controlling the first source device to broadcast information corresponding to the connection with the input device based on the disconnection with the input device.

[0230] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device 100 may include, if key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is impossible, an operation of identifying whether the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device, and if the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device, an operation of controlling the source device corresponding to the content provision to automatically change to the first source device.

[0231] According to one embodiment, a method for operating an electronic device 100 may include, if key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible, an operation of identifying whether the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device, and if the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device, an operation of controlling to automatically change the source device corresponding to the provision of content to the first source device based on user input corresponding to disconnection from the input device.

[0232] According to one embodiment, in a non-transient computer-readable recording medium comprising one or more instructions executed by at least one processor of an electronic device 100, when the one or more instructions are executed by the at least one processor, the electronic device 100 receives a user input through an input device corresponding to the selection of a first source device among one or more source devices corresponding to content provision, and if key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device, the source device corresponding to content provision can be controlled to be changed to the first source device while maintaining the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device.

[0233] Some embodiments may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules executed by a computer. A computer-readable medium may be any available medium accessible by a computer and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, and both removable and non-removable media. Additionally, a computer-readable medium may include a computer storage medium. A computer storage medium includes both volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented by any method or technique for storing information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data.

[0234] The disclosed embodiments may be implemented as a software program comprising instructions stored on a computer-readable storage media.

[0235] A computer is a device capable of calling instructions stored from a storage medium and performing operations according to the disclosed embodiments according to the called instructions, and may include an electronic device according to the disclosed embodiments.

[0236] Computer-readable storage media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. Here, 'non-transitory' means merely that the storage medium does not contain a signal and is tangible, without distinguishing whether data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0237] In addition, the control method according to the disclosed embodiments may be provided by being included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product.

[0238] A computer program product may include a software program and a computer-readable storage medium on which the software program is stored. For example, a computer program product may include a product in the form of a software program (e.g., a downloadable app) that is electronically distributed through a device manufacturer or an electronic market (e.g., Google Play Store, App Store). For electronic distribution, at least a portion of the software program may be stored on a storage medium or temporarily created. In this case, the storage medium may be a server of the manufacturer, a server of the electronic market, or a storage medium of a relay server that temporarily stores the software program.

[0239] A computer program product may include a storage medium of a server or a storage medium of a device in a system composed of a server and a device. Alternatively, if there is a third device (e.g., a smartphone) that is connected to the server or device in communication, the computer program product may include a storage medium of the third device. Alternatively, the computer program product may include the S / W program itself that is transmitted from the server to the device or the third device, or transmitted from the third device to the device.

[0240] In this case, one of the server, the device, and the third device may execute the computer program product to perform the method according to the disclosed embodiments. Alternatively, two or more of the server, the device, and the third device may execute the computer program product to perform the method according to the disclosed embodiments in a distributed manner.

[0241] For example, a server (e.g., a cloud server or an artificial intelligence server, etc.) can execute a computer program product stored on the server to control a device connected to the server in communication to perform a method according to the disclosed embodiments.

[0242] As another example, the third device may execute a computer program product to control a device connected to the third device in communication to perform a method according to the disclosed embodiment. When the third device executes the computer program product, the third device may download the computer program product from a server and execute the downloaded computer program product. Alternatively, the third device may execute a computer program product provided in a preloaded state to perform a method according to the disclosed embodiments.

[0243] Additionally, in this specification, "part" may be a hardware component, such as a processor or circuit, and / or a software component executed by a hardware component, such as a processor.

[0244] The foregoing description of the present disclosure is for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will understand that other specific forms can be easily modified without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. For example, each component described as a single unit may be implemented in a distributed manner, and components described as distributed may likewise be implemented in a combined form.

[0245] The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims set forth below rather than by the detailed description above, and all modifications or variations derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and equivalent concepts thereof should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. In electronic device 100, Communications Department 110, Memory 130 containing one or more instructions, and It includes at least one processor 140 including a processing circuit, and When the above one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100, A user input corresponding to the selection of a first source device among one or more source devices corresponding to content provision is received through an input device, and An electronic device that controls the change of the source device corresponding to the provision of content to the first source device while maintaining the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device, if key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device.

2. In Paragraph 1, When the above one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100, An electronic device that identifies whether key code conversion is possible between one or more input devices and one or more source devices based on a conversion table corresponding to key code conversion between said input devices and said first source devices.

3. In Paragraph 1 or 2, When the above one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100, An electronic device that controls the communication unit to transmit an input signal received from the input device, converted into a key code of the first source device, to the first source device when the source device corresponding to the above content provision is changed to the first source device.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 3, When the above one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100, An electronic device that, if key code conversion is not possible between the input device and the first source device, disconnects the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device and provides information corresponding to performing a connection of the input device to the first source device.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 4, When the above one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100, An electronic device that, if key code conversion is not possible between the input device and the first source device, disconnects the connection with the input device based on the switching function of the input device that supports the switching function, and controls the source device corresponding to the content provision to automatically change to the first source device based on the disconnection with the input device.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 5, When the above one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100, Disconnecting the connection with the input device based on user input corresponding to disconnecting the connection with the input device received through a user interface corresponding to the input device settings, and An electronic device that controls the source device corresponding to the content provision to automatically change to the first source device based on the disconnection of the connection with the input device.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 6, When the above one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100, If key code conversion is not possible between the input device and the first source device and the input device and the first source device are compatible, the connection with the input device is disconnected, and An electronic device that controls the first source device to broadcast information corresponding to the connection with the input device based on the disconnection of the connection with the input device.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 7, When the above one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100, If key code conversion is not possible between the input device and the first source device, identify whether the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device, and An electronic device that controls the source device corresponding to the content provision to automatically change to the first source device if the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 8, When the above one or more instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor 140, the electronic device 100, If key code conversion is not possible between the input device and the first source device, identify whether the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device, and An electronic device that controls the source device corresponding to the content provision to automatically change to the first source device based on user input corresponding to disconnection from the input device, if the input device is an input device compatible only with the electronic device.

10. A method for operating an electronic device 100, The operation of receiving user input through an input device corresponding to the selection of a first source device among one or more source devices corresponding to content provision, and A method comprising, if key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device, controlling to change the source device corresponding to the content provision to the first source device while maintaining the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device.

11. In Paragraph 10, A method comprising identifying whether key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device based on a conversion table corresponding to key code conversion between one or more input devices and one or more source devices.

12. In Paragraph 10 or 11, A method comprising the operation of changing a source device corresponding to the above content provision to the first source device, and transmitting an input signal received from the input device converted into a key code of the first source device to the first source device.

13. In any one of paragraphs 10 through 12, A method comprising, if key code conversion between the input device and the first source device is not possible, disconnecting the input device connected to the electronic device and providing information corresponding to performing a connection of the input device to the first source device.

14. In any one of paragraphs 10 through 13, A method comprising, if key code conversion is not possible between the input device and the first source device, disconnecting the connection with the input device based on the switching function of the input device that supports the switching function, and controlling the source device corresponding to the content provision to automatically change to the first source device based on the disconnection with the input device.

15. A non-transient computer-readable recording medium comprising one or more instructions executed by at least one processor of an electronic device 100, wherein when the one or more instructions are executed by the at least one processor, the electronic device 100, A user input corresponding to the selection of a first source device among one or more source devices corresponding to content provision is received through an input device, and A non-transient computer-readable recording medium that controls changing the source device corresponding to the content provision to the first source device while maintaining the connection of the input device connected to the electronic device, if key code conversion is possible between the input device and the first source device.

Images