KR101701854B1 - Method for providing a list of channel which searched real-time in display apparatus and display apparatus thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image display apparatus and an operation method thereof, and more particularly, to a video display apparatus and a method thereof, which enable a user to smoothly select a desired channel by providing various information when a user uses an image display apparatus The method comprising the steps of: displaying arbitrary contents on a video display device, transmitting content information corresponding to the displayed content to a server through a network, receiving real-time channel search list data from the server, And displays a real-time channel search list based on the channel search information. When the user desires to select a channel in the video display device, the user can quickly and accurately select a desired channel by referring to the channel search information of other users.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing a real-time search channel list of a video display device,

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image display apparatus and an operation method thereof, and more particularly, to a video display apparatus and a method thereof, which enable a user to smoothly select a desired channel by providing various information when a user uses an image display apparatus ≪ / RTI >

The video display device is, for example, a device having a function of receiving and processing a broadcast image that a user can view. The video display device displays, for example, a broadcast selected by the user among the broadcast signals transmitted from the broadcast station on the display. Currently, broadcasting is changing from analog broadcasting to digital broadcasting around the world.

Digital broadcasting refers to broadcasting in which digital video and audio signals are transmitted. Compared to analog broadcasting, digital broadcasting is strong against external noise and has a small data loss, is advantageous for error correction, has a high resolution, and provides a clear screen. Also, unlike analog broadcasting, digital broadcasting is capable of bidirectional service.

In addition, as digital-based digital broadcasting technology has been developed and commercialized beyond the existing analog broadcasting, real-time broadcasting, contents on demand (CDD), and digital broadcasting using a public Internet network, , IPTV, etc., to provide users with dozens of programs at the same time.

However, the related art has a problem that it is difficult to search and select a desired channel or program although the user can use various channels and programs in the video display device. That is, there is a problem that it is difficult to understand which channel a user wants to provide and which channel is popular among other users among a large number of programs simultaneously available in the video display device, The viewer information is inaccurate.

Accordingly, in order to more easily and conveniently use contents desired by a user in various channels or programs available in a video display device, a method of accurately and conveniently confirming information on popular channels and programs through a network in a video display device And to provide a video display device employing the method.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an operation method of an image display device and a video display device that can use various information in channel selection by sharing channel search data among users.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an operation method of a video display device and an image display device therefor, which can improve the usability of the user.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an operation method of an image display device capable of providing various user interfaces and an image display device therefor.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of providing a real-time channel search list of a video display device, the method comprising: displaying arbitrary content; Transmitting content information corresponding to the displayed content to a server through a network; Receiving real-time channel search list data from the server; And displaying a real-time channel search list based on the transmitted data.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image display apparatus including: a display unit for displaying arbitrary contents; A network interface unit for transmitting and receiving data to and from a server through a network; An additional information management unit for generating content information of the displayed content; And transmitting the generated content information to the server through the network interface unit, receiving real-time channel search list data from the server, and displaying the real-time channel search list based on the transmitted data on the display unit And a control unit.

According to the embodiment of the present invention, when the user desires to select a channel in the video display device, the channel search information of other users can be confirmed, so that a desired channel can be selected quickly and accurately.

In addition, according to the embodiment of the present invention, audience rating information can be generated by performing sample survey on each video display device connected to the network, so that reliable information can be provided to a user.

In addition, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the service provider can provide various information to the user to induce the user's interest in using the broadcast service.

Meanwhile, according to another embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide various user interfaces in the video display device, thereby increasing the usability of the user.

1 is a diagram schematically showing an example of an entire broadcasting system including an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a diagram schematically showing another example of an entire broadcasting system including an image display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a step in which the video display device shown in FIG. 1 or 2 accesses a service provider and receives channel information and the like.
4 is a diagram showing an example of data used in the steps shown in FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the image display apparatus shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 in more detail.
FIG. 6 is a detailed view showing another example of the image display device shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2. FIG.
FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are views showing any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention in a set-top box and a display device.
9 is a diagram for explaining a process in which any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention communicates with the third devices.
10 is an internal block diagram of the control unit shown in FIG.
FIG. 11 is a view showing an example of a platform structure of any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.
12 is a view showing another example of a platform structure of any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.
13 is a diagram illustrating a control method of a remote controller for controlling any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is an internal block diagram of a remote control device for controlling any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a first embodiment of a user interface provided by any one of the image display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.
16 is a diagram illustrating a second embodiment of a user interface provided by any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.
17 is a diagram illustrating a third embodiment of a user interface provided by any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.
18 is a view showing a fourth embodiment of a user interface provided by any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.
19 is a diagram illustrating a broadcasting system including a video display device and a server according to an embodiment of the present invention.
20 is a diagram illustrating a process of displaying a real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a display screen including a real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 22 is a view showing a display screen including a real-time channel search list for each time interval according to an embodiment of the present invention.
23 is a view illustrating a display screen including a genre-specific real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.
24 is a view illustrating a display screen including an EPG information window for displaying real-time channel search ranking information according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 25 is a view illustrating a display screen including a real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.
26 is a view showing a display screen including a real-time channel search list in which channel utilization information is displayed according to an embodiment of the present invention.
27 is a view illustrating a display screen including a real-time channel search list for displaying channel detail information according to an embodiment of the present invention.
28 is a view illustrating a display screen including a real-time channel search list in which a parental control function is set according to an embodiment of the present invention.
29 is a view showing a display screen including an update period setting menu of a real time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.
30 is a view illustrating a display screen including a real-time channel search list having an advertisement area according to an embodiment of the present invention.
31 is a view showing a display screen of a home screen including a real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

The suffix "module" and " part "for components used in the following description are given merely for ease of description, and the" module "and" part "

Meanwhile, the video display device described in the present invention is an intelligent video display device that adds a computer support function to a broadcast receiving function, for example, and is equipped with an Internet function while being faithful to a broadcast receiving function, Or an interface that is more convenient to use than a space remote controller or the like. With the support of wired or wireless internet function, it can be connected to internet and computer and can perform functions such as e-mail, web browsing, banking or game. A standardized general-purpose OS can be used for these various functions.

Therefore, the video display device described in the present invention can freely add or delete various applications, for example, on a general-purpose OS kernel, so that various user-friendly functions can be performed. More specifically, the video display device may be, for example, a network TV, an HBBTV, a smart TV, or the like, and may be applied to a smartphone according to circumstances.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The above and other features and advantages of the present invention will be more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG.

As used herein, terms used in the present invention are selected from general terms that are widely used in the present invention while taking into account the functions of the present invention, but these may vary depending on the intention or custom of a person skilled in the art or the emergence of new technologies. In addition, in certain cases, there may be a term arbitrarily selected by the applicant, in which case the meaning thereof will be described in the description of the corresponding invention. Therefore, it is intended that the terminology used herein should be interpreted based on the meaning of the term rather than on the name of the term, and on the entire contents of the specification.

 1 is a diagram schematically showing an example of an entire broadcasting system including an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

1, an overall broadcasting system including an image display apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a content provider (CP) 10, a service provider (SP) 20, A network provider (NP) 30 and an HNED 40. [ The HNED 40 corresponds to, for example, a client 100 which is an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. The client 100 corresponds to an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and the image display device is, for example, a network TV, a smart TV, an IPTV, or the like.

The content provider 10 produces and provides various contents. 1, a terrestrial broadcaster, a cable SO (System Operator), a MSO (Multiple System Operator), a satellite broadcaster, Internet broadcaster and the like can be exemplified.

In addition, the content provider 10 may provide various applications in addition to the broadcast content. In this regard, it will be described in detail later.

The service provider 20 can provide the contents provided by the contents provider 10 in a service package. For example, the service provider 20 of FIG. 1 can package and provide the first terrestrial broadcast, second terrestrial broadcast, cable MSO, satellite broadcast, various Internet broadcasts, applications, etc. to the user.

Meanwhile, the service provider 20 can provide a service to the client 100 using a unicast or multicast method. The unicast method is a method of transmitting data 1: 1 between one sender and one receiver. For example, in a unicast method, when a receiver requests data from a server, the server can transmit data to the receiver upon request. The multicast method is a method of transmitting data to a plurality of receivers of a specific group. For example, the server can transmit data to a plurality of pre-registered receivers at once. An Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) protocol may be used for multicast registration.

The network provider 30 may provide a network for providing services to the client 100. The client 100 may be provided with a service by building a home network end user (HNED).

Conditional access or content protection may be used as means for protecting contents transmitted from the video display device system. As an example of such restriction reception or content protection, a scheme such as a cable card (CableCARD) and a DCAS (Downloadable Conditional Access System) may be used.

On the other hand, the client 100 can also provide the content through the network. In this case, conversely, conversely, conversely, the client 100 may be a content provider, and the content provider 10 may receive content from the client 100. [ In this case, there is an advantage that an interactive content service or a data service is possible.

2 is a diagram schematically showing another example of an entire broadcasting system including an image display device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 2, the video display device 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention is connected to a broadcast network and an Internet network. The video display device 100 is, for example, a network TV, a smart TV, an HBBTV, or the like.

The video display device 100 may include a broadcast interface 101, a section filter 102, an AIT filter 103, an application data processing section 104, a broadcast data processing section 111, a media player 106 ), An Internet protocol processing unit 107, an Internet interface 108, and a runtime module 109.

Application information table (AIT) data, real-time broadcast content, application data, and stream events are received through the broadcast interface 101. Meanwhile, the real-time broadcast content may be referred to as Linear A / V content.

The section filter 102 performs section filtering on four pieces of data received through the broadcast interface 101 to transmit the AIT data to the AIT filter 103. The linear AV contents are transmitted to the broadcast data processing unit 111, And transmits the stream event and application data to the application data processing unit 104. [

Non-Linear A / V content and application data are received through the Internet interface 108. [ The non-linear AVE content may be, for example, a COD (Content On Demand) application.

The non-Linear Above content is transmitted to the media player 106, and the application data is transmitted to the runtime module 109.

Further, the runtime module 109 includes, for example, an application manager and a browser as shown in FIG. The application manager controls the life cycle for the interactive application using, for example, AIT data. The browser performs, for example, the function of displaying and processing the interactive application.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a step in which the video display device shown in FIG. 1 or 2 accesses a service provider and receives channel information and the like. Of course, FIG. 3 is an embodiment, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the method of FIG.

The service provider performs a service provider discovery operation (S301). The video display device transmits an SP connection request (Service Provider Attachment Request) signal (S302). When the SP connection is completed, the video display device receives the provisioning information (S303). Further, the video display device receives the master SI table from the service provider (S304), receives the Virtual Chnnanel Map table (S305), receives the Virtual Channel Description table (S306), and receives the Source table S307).

More specifically, the following will be described.

The service provider discovery may refer to a process in which service providers providing services related to IPTV find a server providing information on their services.

There are three methods for finding an address list that can receive information (for example, SP discovery information) about an SD (service discovery) server, for example, as follows. First, an address preset in the video display device or an address set by the user's manual operation can be used. Second, you can use the DHCP-based SP discovery method. Third, DNS SRV-based SP discovery method can be used. Also, the video display device accesses a server of an address obtained by any one of the above three methods, and receives a service provider discovery record containing information necessary for service discovery by SP. Then, the service searching step is carried out using this. These processes are available in either push mode or pull mode.

Access the SP attachment server specified as the SP attachment locator of the SP discovery record and perform the registration procedure (or service attachment procedure).

Further, a separate authentication procedure may be performed by accessing the authentication service server of the SP designated as the SP authentication locator, and then the service authentication procedure may be performed.

On the other hand, the data transmitted from the server to the video display device after the success of the service attachment procedure may be in the form of a provisioning information table.

In the service attaching process, the video display device provides its own ID and location information to the data transmitted to the server, and the service attachment server can specify the service to which the video display device subscribes based on the ID and the location information. Further, the address information for obtaining the service information to be received by the video display device is provided in the form of a provisioning information table. The address information corresponds to the connection information of the master SI table. When such a method is used, it is easy to provide customized services for each subscriber.

The service information includes a master SI table record for managing connection information and version for a virtual channel map, a virtual channel map table for providing a service list of a package type, and a virtual channel description table , And a source table containing access information to access the actual service.

4 is a diagram showing an example of data used in the steps shown in FIG.

Figure 4 is a more detailed illustration of Figure 3. Hereinafter, the relationship of the data in the SI will be described with reference to FIG.

The master SI table contains location information for each virtual channel map and version information of each virtual channel map.

Each virtual channel map is uniquely identified by a virtual channel map identifier, and the virtual channel map version represents version information of the virtual channel map. When any one of all tables connected in the arrow direction starting from the master SI table shown in FIG. 4 is changed, the version of all the upper tables (up to the master SI table) increases with the version increase of the corresponding table. Therefore, by monitoring the master SI table, it is possible to immediately check the change in the entire SI table.

For example, if a change occurs in the source table, the version of the source table is incremented, and the version of the virtual channel description table that references the source table is also changed. Therefore, a change of the lower table causes a change of the upper table, and ultimately the version of the master SI table is changed.

There may be one Master SI table per service provider. However, when the configuration of the service is different according to the region or the subscriber (or subscriber group), the service provider designes a plurality of master SI tables to provide a customized service for each unit. In such a case, it is possible to efficiently provide a customized service according to the subscriber's region and subscription information through the master SI table.

The virtual channel map table may have one or more virtual channels, and may include location information that can acquire the detailed information, rather than including detailed channel information in the virtual channel map. The virtual channel description location of the virtual channel map table indicates the location of the virtual channel description table including the channel detail information.

The virtual channel description table includes detailed information of the virtual channel, and can access the virtual channel desctiprion table using the virtual channel description location of the virtual channel map table.

The source table provides connection information (for example, IP address, port, AV codec, transmission protocol, etc.) necessary for accessing the actual service on a service-by-service basis.

The master SI table, the virtual channel map table, the virtual channel description table, and the source table described above are logically transmitted through four separate flows, and both the push mode and the pull mode are available. On the other hand, the master SI table can be transmitted in multicast for version management, and receives the multicast stream to monitor the version change.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the image display apparatus shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 in more detail. However, the drawing shown in FIG. 5 is only an embodiment, and the scope of rights of the present invention should be determined in principle by the claims rather than FIG.

The video display device 700 includes a network interface 701, a TCP / IP manager 702, a service delivery manager 703, a demultiplexer 705, a PSI & PSIP and / or SI decoder 704, an audio decoder 706, a video decoder 707, a display A / V and OSD module 708, A service control manager 709, a service discovery manager 710, a metadata manager 712, an SI & metadata database 711, a UI manager 714, A manager 713, and the like.

The network interface unit 701 receives packets received from the network and transmits the packets to the network. That is, the network interface unit 701 receives services, contents, and the like from the service provider through the network.

The TCP / IP manager 702 is involved in delivering packets to and from the packets received by the video display device 700 and the video display device 700, that is, from the source to the destination. The TCP / IP manager 702 classifies the received packets so as to correspond to the appropriate protocols and classifies them into the service delivery manager 705, the service discovery manager 710, the service control manager 709, and the metadata manager 712 Lt; / RTI >

The service delivery manager 703 is responsible for controlling the received service data. For example, RTP / RTCP can be used to control real-time streaming data. When the real-time streaming data is transmitted using the RTP, the service delivery manager 703 parses the received data packet according to the RTP and transmits it to the demultiplexer 705 or to the control of the service manager 713 And stores it in the SI & Metadata DB 711. And feedbacks the network reception information to the server providing the service using the RTCP.

The demultiplexer 705 demultiplexes the received packets into audio, video, program specific information (PSI) data, and transmits them to the audio / video decoders 706 and 707 and the PSI & PSIP and / do.

The PSI & PSIP and / or SI decoder 704 decodes service information such as PSI (Program Specific Information), for example. That is, the PSI & PSIP and / or SI decoder 704 receives and decodes the demultiplexed PSI section, the Program and Service Information Protocol (PSIP) section, or the SI (Service Information) section in the demultiplexer 705.

In addition, the PSI & PSIP and / or SI decoder 704 decodes the received sections to create a database of service information, and stores the database of the service information in the SI & Metadata DB 711.

The audio / video decoder 706/707 decodes the video data and audio data received from the demultiplexer 705. The audio data decoded by the audio decoder 706 and the video data decoded by the video decoder 707 are provided to the user through the display unit 708. [

The UI manager 714 and the service manager 713 manage the overall state of the video display device 700, provide a user interface, and manage other managers.

The UI manager 714 provides a GUI (Graphic User Interface) for a user using an OSD (On Screen Display) or the like, and receives a key input from a user to perform a receiver operation according to the input. For example, upon receipt of a key input from the user regarding channel selection, the key input signal is transmitted to the service manager 713.

The service manager 713 controls the manager associated with the service, such as the service delivery manager 703, the service discovery manager 710, the service control manager 709, and the metadata manager 712.

In addition, the service manager 713 creates a channel map and selects a channel using the channel map according to a key input received from the user interface manager 714. The service manager 713 receives the service information of the channel from the PSI & PSIP and / or SI Decoder 704 and sets an audio / video PID (Packet Identifier) of the selected channel in the demultiplexer 705.

The service discovery manager 710 provides information necessary for selecting a service provider that provides the service. Upon receiving a signal regarding channel selection from the service manager 713, the service discovery manager 710 searches for the service using the information.

The service control manager 709 is responsible for selection and control of services. For example, when a user selects a service such as IGMP or RTSP when selecting a Live Broadcasting service such as an existing broadcasting method and selects a service such as VOD (Video On Demand), RTSP is used to select a service, control . The RTSP protocol may provide a trick mode for real-time streaming. Also, the service control manager 709 can initialize and manage a session through the IMC gateway using an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) and a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP). The protocols are one embodiment, and other protocols may be used, depending on the implementation.

The metadata manager 712 manages the metadata associated with the service and stores the metadata in the SI & Metadata DB 711.

The SI & Metadata DN 711 selects the service information decoded by the PSI & PSIP and / or SI Decoder 704, the metadata managed by the metadata manager 712, and the service provider provided by the service discovery manager 710 Store the necessary information. In addition, the SI & Metadata DB 711 may store set-up data and the like for the system.

The SI & Metadata DB 711 may be implemented using a Nonvolatile RAM (NVRAM) or a flash memory.

Meanwhile, the IG 750 is a gateway that collects functions necessary for accessing an IMS-based IPTV service.

FIG. 6 is a detailed view showing another example of the image display device shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2. FIG.

6, an image display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a broadcast receiving unit 105, an external device interface unit 135, a storage unit 140, a user input interface unit 150, A control unit 170, a display unit 180, an audio output unit 185, a power supply unit 190, and a photographing unit (not shown). The broadcast receiving unit 105 may include a tuner 110, a demodulator 120, and a network interface unit 130. Of course, the tuner 110 and the demodulator 120 may be provided, but the network interface 130 may not be included. Alternatively, the tuner 110 and the demodulator 120 may be included, It is also possible to design the demodulation unit 120 not to include it.

The tuner 110 selects an RF broadcast signal corresponding to a channel selected by the user or all previously stored channels among RF (Radio Frequency) broadcast signals received through the antenna. Also, the selected RF broadcast signal is converted into an intermediate frequency signal, a baseband image, or a voice signal.

For example, if the selected RF broadcast signal is a digital broadcast signal, it is converted into a digital IF signal (DIF). If the selected RF broadcast signal is an analog broadcast signal, it is converted into an analog baseband image or voice signal (CVBS / SIF). That is, the tuner 110 can process both a digital broadcast signal and an analog broadcast signal. The analog baseband video or audio signal (CVBS / SIF) output from the tuner 110 can be directly input to the controller 170.

Also, the tuner 110 can receive RF carrier signals of a single carrier according to an Advanced Television System Committee (ATSC) scheme or RF carriers of a plurality of carriers according to a DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting) scheme.

Meanwhile, the tuner 110 sequentially selects RF broadcast signals of all the broadcast channels stored through the channel memory function among the RF broadcast signals received through the antenna, and converts the RF broadcast signals into an intermediate frequency signal, a baseband image, or a voice signal have.

The demodulator 120 receives the digital IF signal DIF converted by the tuner 110 and performs a demodulation operation.

For example, when the digital IF signal output from the tuner 110 is the ATSC scheme, the demodulator 120 performs 8-VSB (8-Vestigal Side Band) demodulation, for example. Also, the demodulation unit 120 may perform channel decoding. To this end, the demodulator 120 includes a trellis decoder, a de-interleaver, and a reed solomon decoder to perform trellis decoding, deinterleaving, Solomon decoding can be performed.

For example, when the digital IF signal output from the tuner 110 is a DVB scheme, the demodulator 120 performs CODDMA (Coded Orthogonal Frequency Division Modulation) demodulation, for example. Also, the demodulation unit 120 may perform channel decoding. For this, the demodulator 120 may include a convolution decoder, a deinterleaver, and a reed-solomon decoder to perform convolutional decoding, deinterleaving, and reed solomon decoding.

The demodulation unit 120 may perform demodulation and channel decoding, and then output a stream signal TS. At this time, the stream signal may be a signal in which a video signal, a voice signal, or a data signal is multiplexed. For example, the stream signal may be an MPEG-2 TS (Transport Stream) multiplexed with an MPEG-2 standard video signal, a Dolby AC-3 standard audio signal, or the like. Specifically, the MPEG-2 TS may include a header of 4 bytes and a payload of 184 bytes.

Meanwhile, the demodulating unit 120 may be separately provided according to the ATSC scheme and the DVB scheme. That is, it can be provided as an ATSC demodulation unit and a DVB demodulation unit.

The stream signal output from the demodulation unit 120 may be input to the controller 170. The control unit 170 performs demultiplexing, video / audio signal processing, and the like, and then outputs the video to the display unit 180 and audio to the audio output unit 185.

The external device interface unit 135 can connect the external device and the video display device 100. [ To this end, the external device interface unit 135 may include an A / V input / output unit (not shown) or a wireless communication unit (not shown).

The external device interface unit 135 can be connected to an external device such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), a Blu ray, a game device, a camera, a camcorder, a computer (notebook) The external device interface unit 135 transmits external video, audio, or data signals to the controller 170 of the video display device 100 through a connected external device. Also, the control unit 170 can output the processed video, audio, or data signal to the connected external device. To this end, the external device interface unit 135 may include an A / V input / output unit (not shown) or a wireless communication unit (not shown).

The A / V input / output unit includes a USB terminal, a CVBS (Composite Video Banking Sync) terminal, a component terminal, an S-video terminal (analog), a DVI (Digital Visual Interface) terminal, an HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) terminal, an RGB terminal, a D-SUB terminal, and the like.

The wireless communication unit can perform short-range wireless communication with other electronic devices. The image display device 100 may be a digital camera such as Bluetooth, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), infrared data association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, Digital Living Network Alliance ) According to the communication standard.

Also, the external device interface unit 135 may be connected to the various set-top boxes via at least one of the various terminals described above to perform input / output operations with the set-top box.

Meanwhile, the external device interface unit 135 may receive the application or application list in the adjacent external device, and may transmit the received application or application list to the control unit 170 or the storage unit 140.

The network interface unit 130 provides an interface for connecting the video display device 100 to a wired / wireless network including the Internet network. The network interface unit 130 may include an Ethernet terminal or the like for connection to a wired network and may be a WLAN (Wireless LAN) (Wi- Fi wireless broadband (Wibro), World Interoperability for Microwave Access (Wimax), and HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access) communication standards.

The network interface unit 130 can transmit or receive data with other users or other electronic devices via a network connected thereto or another network linked to the connected network. Particularly, it is possible to transmit a part of content data stored in the video display device 100 to another user registered in the video display device 100 or a selected user or selected one of the other electronic devices.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 130 can access a predetermined web page through the connected network or another network linked to the connected network. That is, it is possible to access a predetermined web page through a network and transmit or receive data with the server. In addition, content or data provided by a content provider or a network operator can be received. That is, it can receive contents such as a movie, an advertisement, a game, a VOD, a broadcast signal, and related information provided from a content provider or a network provider through a network. In addition, the update information and the update file of the firmware provided by the network operator can be received. It may also transmit data to the Internet or a content provider or network operator.

In addition, the network interface unit 130 can select and receive a desired application among applications open to the public via a network.

The storage unit 140 may store a program for each signal processing and control in the control unit 170 or may store the processed video, audio, or data signals.

The storage unit 140 may also function to temporarily store video, audio, or data signals input from the external device interface unit 135 or the network interface unit 130. In addition, the storage unit 140 may store information on a predetermined broadcast channel through the channel memory function.

The storage unit 140 may store a list of applications or applications input from the external device interface unit 135 or the network interface unit 130. [

In addition, the storage unit 140 may store various platforms to be described later.

The storage unit 140 may be a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (for example, SD or XD Memory, etc.), RAM, ROM (EEPROM, etc.), and the like. The video display device 100 may reproduce and provide a content file (a moving image file, a still image file, a music file, a document file, an application file, etc.) stored in the storage unit 140 to a user.

FIG. 6 shows an embodiment in which the storage unit 140 is provided separately from the control unit 170, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. The storage unit 140 may be included in the controller 170.

The user input interface unit 150 transmits a signal input by the user to the control unit 170 or a signal from the control unit 170 to the user.

For example, the user input interface unit 150 may be configured to turn on / off the power, select the channel, and display the screen from the remote control device 200 according to various communication methods such as a radio frequency (RF) communication method and an infrared Or a control signal from the control section 170 to the remote control apparatus 200. The remote control apparatus 200 may be configured to receive the control signal from the control section 170,

Also, for example, the user input interface unit 150 can transmit a control signal input from a local key (not shown) such as a power key, a channel key, a volume key, and a set value to the controller 170.

For example, the user input interface unit 150 may transmit a control signal input from a sensing unit (not shown) that senses a user's gesture to the control unit 170, or may sense a signal from the control unit 170 (Not shown). Here, the sensing unit (not shown) may include a touch sensor, an audio sensor, a position sensor, an operation sensor, and the like.

The control unit 170 demultiplexes the input stream or processes the demultiplexed signals through the tuner 110 or the demodulation unit 120 or the external device interface unit 135 to generate a signal for video or audio output Can be generated and output.

The video signal processed by the controller 170 may be input to the display unit 180 and displayed as an image corresponding to the video signal. The video signal processed by the controller 170 may be input to the external output device through the external device interface 135. [

The audio signal processed by the control unit 170 may be output to the audio output unit 185 through audio. The voice signal processed by the control unit 170 may be input to the external output device through the external device interface unit 135.

Although not shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 170 may include a demultiplexing unit, an image processing unit, and the like. This will be described later with reference to FIG.

In addition, the control unit 170 can control the overall operation in the video display device 100. [ For example, the control unit 170 may control the tuner 110 to control the tuner 110 to select an RF broadcast corresponding to a channel selected by the user or a previously stored channel.

In addition, the controller 170 may control the image display device 100 according to a user command or an internal program input through the user input interface unit 150. In particular, the user can access the network and download a list of applications or applications desired by the user to the video display device 100.

For example, the controller 170 controls the tuner 110 to input a signal of a selected channel according to a predetermined channel selection command received through the user input interface unit 150. And processes video, audio or data signals of the selected channel. The control unit 170 allows the display unit 180 or the audio output unit 185 to output the video or audio signal processed by the user through the channel information or the like selected by the user.

For example, the control unit 170 may control the operation of the external device through the external device interface unit 135, for example, a camera or a camcorder, according to an external device video playback command received through the user input interface unit 150 So that the video signal or the audio signal of the audio signal output through the display unit 180 or the audio output unit 185 can be outputted.

Meanwhile, the control unit 170 may control the display unit 180 to display an image. For example, a broadcast image input through the tuner 110, an external input image input through the external device interface unit 135, an image input through the network interface unit, or an image stored in the storage unit 140 , And display on the display unit 180 can be controlled. At this time, the image displayed on the display unit 180 may be a still image or a moving image, and may be a 2D image or a 3D image.

Also, the control unit 170 can control to reproduce the content. The content at this time may be content stored in the video display device 100, received broadcast content, or external input content input from the outside. The content may be at least one of a broadcast image, an external input image, an audio file, a still image, a connected web screen, and a document file.

In addition, the control unit 170 can control the display unit 180 to display a home screen according to the movement input to the home screen.

The home screen may include a plurality of card objects classified by content sources. The card object includes a card object representing a thumbnail list of broadcast channels, a card object representing a broadcast guide list, a card object representing a broadcast reservation list or a recording list, a media object in the video display device or a device connected to the video display device And a card object representing the card object. In addition, it may further include at least one of a card object indicating a list of connected external devices and a card object indicating a list related to a call.

Further, the home screen may further comprise an application menu having at least one executable application item.

On the other hand, when there is a card object movement input, the control unit 170 can control to move and display the card object or move and display the card object that is not displayed on the display unit 180 on the display unit 180 .

On the other hand, when a predetermined card object among a plurality of card objects in the home screen is selected, the control unit 170 can control the display unit 180 to display an image corresponding to the card object.

On the other hand, the control unit 170 can control to display a received broadcast image and an object representing the broadcast-related information in the card object for displaying the broadcast image. The broadcast image can be controlled so that its size is fixed by the lock setting.

On the other hand, the control unit 170 displays a set-up object for setting at least one of video setting, audio setting, screen setting, reservation setting, pointer setting of the remote control device, and network setting in the video display device Can be controlled.

On the other hand, the control unit 170 may control to display objects for login, help, or exit items in one area of the home screen.

On the other hand, the control unit 170 can control to display the total number of card objects in one area of the home screen or an object representing the number of card objects displayed on the display unit 180 among all the card objects.

On the other hand, when the card object name in the predetermined card object among the card objects displayed on the display unit 180 is selected, the control unit 170 can control the display unit 180 to display the corresponding card object as a full screen.

When the incoming call is received in the connected external device or video display device, the control unit 170 may focus the call related card object among the plurality of card objects and display the call related card object in the display unit 180 It is possible to control to move and display it.

On the other hand, when entering the application viewing item, the control unit 170 can control to display a list of applications or applications that can be downloaded from the video display device 100 or from an external network.

The control unit 170 can control, in addition to various user interfaces, to install and operate an application downloaded from the external network. Further, it is possible to control so that an image related to the executed application is displayed on the display unit 180 by the user's selection.

Meanwhile, in connection with the embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 170 may include an additional information management unit 171. [

The additional information management unit 171 can generate content information of the content displayed on the video display device. That is, the content name, broadcasting station information, time information, performer information, and the like of the content currently being reproduced by the image display device can be extracted from the EPG information included in the broadcast signal.

Further, the additional information management unit 171 can generate position information of the video display device. That is, the current position of the image display device can be recognized through the GPS (Global Positioning System) module or the position information module provided in the image display device, and the positional information can be generated based on the recognized position.

The control unit 170 transmits the content information generated by the additional information management unit 171 to the server connected to the network through the network interface unit 130 and receives the real time channel search list data from the server, And controls the display unit 180 to display a real-time channel search list based on the received data.

The control unit 170 transmits the location information generated by the additional information management unit 171 to the server through the network interface unit 130 together with the content information and displays the real time channel search list corresponding to the location information (180).

In addition, the controller 170 can display the real-time channel search list displayed on the display unit 180, including the advertisement data transmitted from the server through the network interface unit 130.

When the content is displayed on the video display device, the controller 170 receives the channel search signal including the channel search condition through the user interface unit 150, And displays one or more channel selection signals included in the searched channel list through the user interface unit 150. In response to the channel selection signal, And display the content of the channel corresponding to the selection signal on the display unit 180. Accordingly, the data collected in the video display device in the searching process can also be transmitted to the server connected to the network, thereby becoming a basis for generating the real-time channel search list.

The control unit 170 controls the display unit 180 to display the received EPG information included in the broadcast signal and display the EPG information including the EPG information and the ranking information based on the received data, can do.

In addition, the control unit 170 searches the network interface unit 130 for each content item included in the real-time channel search list to see if it is available in the video display device, It is possible to control so that the item is displayed differently from the available content item. Reference is now made to Fig. 26 for an example of displaying the unusable content item differently from the available content item.

In addition, the control unit 170 receives one or more selection signals among the content items included in the real-time channel search list through the user interface unit 150, and displays detailed information corresponding to the selected content item can do. The display screen will be described with reference to FIG.

The control unit 170 searches the video display device for predetermined usage class restriction information, determines whether each of the content items included in the real time channel search list matches the usage class restriction information, The control unit can control to display the real-time channel search list after deleting the content item that does not match the usage class restriction information.

In addition, the controller 170 searches the video display device for preset update period information, and updates the real-time channel search list by receiving the real-time channel search list data again from the server in response to the retrieved update period information Can be controlled.

Although not shown in the drawing, a channel browsing processing unit for generating a channel signal or a thumbnail image corresponding to an external input signal may be further provided.

The channel browsing processing unit receives the stream signal TS output from the demodulation unit 120 or the stream signal output from the external device interface unit 135 and extracts an image from an input stream signal to generate a thumbnail image . The generated thumbnail image may be directly or encoded and input to the controller 170. In addition, the generated thumbnail image may be encoded in a stream format and input to the controller 170. The control unit 170 may display a thumbnail list having a plurality of thumbnail images on the display unit 180 using the input thumbnail images. On the other hand, the thumbnail images in this thumbnail list can be updated in sequence or simultaneously. Accordingly, the user can easily grasp the contents of a plurality of broadcast channels.

The display unit 180 converts an image signal, a data signal, an OSD signal processed by the control unit 170 or a video signal and a data signal received from the external device interface unit 135 into R, G, and B signals, respectively Thereby generating a driving signal.

The display unit 180 may be a PDP, an LCD, an OLED, a flexible display, a 3D display, or the like.

Meanwhile, the display unit 180 may be configured as a touch screen and used as an input device in addition to the output device.

The audio output unit 185 receives a signal processed by the control unit 170, for example, a stereo signal, a 3.1 channel signal, or a 5.1 channel signal, and outputs it as a voice. The voice output unit 185 may be implemented by various types of speakers.

In order to detect the user's gesture, a sensing unit (not shown) having at least one of a touch sensor, a voice sensor, a position sensor, and an operation sensor may be further included in the image display device 100 have. A signal sensed by a sensing unit (not shown) may be transmitted to the controller 170 through the user input interface unit 150.

On the other hand, a photographing unit (not shown) for photographing a user may be further provided. The image information photographed by the photographing unit (not shown) may be input to the control unit 170.

The control unit 170 may sense the gesture of the user by combining the images photographed by the photographing unit (not shown) or the signals sensed by the sensing unit (not shown).

The power supply unit 190 supplies power to the entire video display device 100.

Particularly, it is possible to supply power to a control unit 170 that can be implemented in the form of a system on chip (SOC), a display unit 180 for displaying an image, and an audio output unit 185 for audio output .

To this end, the power supply unit 190 may include a converter (not shown) for converting the AC power into DC power. Meanwhile, for example, when the display unit 180 is implemented as a liquid crystal panel having a plurality of backlight lamps, an inverter (not shown) that can perform a PWM operation for variable luminance or dimming driving is further provided It is possible.

The remote control apparatus 200 transmits the user input to the user input interface unit 150. [ To this end, the remote control apparatus 200 can use Bluetooth, RF (radio frequency) communication, infrared (IR) communication, UWB (Ultra Wideband), ZigBee, or the like.

Also, the remote control apparatus 200 can receive the video, audio or data signal output from the user input interface unit 150 and display it on the remote control apparatus 200 or output sound or vibration.

The video display device 100 described above can be applied to digital broadcasting of the ATSC system (8-VSB system), digital broadcasting of the DVB-T system (COFDM system), digital broadcasting of the ISDB-T system (BST-OFDM system) And a digital broadcasting receiver capable of receiving at least one of the digital broadcasting signals.

Meanwhile, a block diagram of the image display device 100 shown in FIG. 2 is a block diagram for an embodiment of the present invention. Each component of the block diagram can be integrated, added, or omitted according to the specifications of the video display device 100 actually implemented. That is, two or more constituent elements may be combined into one constituent element, or one constituent element may be constituted by two or more constituent elements, if necessary. In addition, the functions performed in each block are intended to illustrate the embodiments of the present invention, and the specific operations and apparatuses do not limit the scope of the present invention.

6, the video display device 100 may include a tuner 110 and a demodulator 120, which are not shown in FIG. 6, and may be connected to the network interface 130 or the external device interface 135 , It is possible to receive and reproduce the image contents.

Meanwhile, the image display device 100 is an example of a video signal processing device that performs signal processing of an image stored in the device or an input image. Another example of the image signal processing device includes a display 180 A set-top box excluding the audio output unit 185, a DVD player, a Blu-ray player, a game device, a computer, and the like may be further exemplified. The set-top box will be described with reference to Figs. 7 and 8 below.

FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are diagrams showing one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention as a set-top box and a display device.

First, referring to Fig. 7, the set-top box 250 and the display device 300 can transmit or receive data by wire or wirelessly.

The set top box 250 may include a network interface unit 255, a storage unit 258, a signal processing unit 260, a user input interface unit 263, and an external device interface unit 265.

The network interface unit 255 provides an interface for connection to a wired / wireless network including the Internet network. It can also transmit or receive data to other users or other electronic devices via the connected network or other network linked to the connected network.

The storage unit 258 may store a program for each signal processing and control in the signal processing unit 260 or may store a video, It may perform a function for temporary storage of a signal. In addition, the storage unit 258 may store the platform shown in Figs. 11 and 12, which will be described later.

The signal processing unit 260 performs signal processing of an input signal. For example, it is possible to demultiplex or decode an input video signal, and perform demultiplexing or decoding of an input audio signal. To this end, a video decoder or a voice decoder may be provided. The processed video signal or audio signal can be transmitted to the display device 300 through the external device interface unit 265. [

The user input interface unit 263 transfers a signal input by the user to the signal processing unit 260 or a signal from the signal processing unit 260 to the user. For example, various control signals, such as power on / off, operation input, and setting input, input through a local key (not shown) or the remote control device 200, may be received and transmitted to the signal processing unit 260.

The external device interface unit 265 provides an interface for transmitting or receiving data with an external device connected by wire or wirelessly. In particular, it provides an interface for transmitting or receiving data with the display device 300. It is also possible to provide an interface for data transmission or reception with an external device such as a game device, a camera, a camcorder, a computer (notebook computer) or the like.

The set-top box 250 may further include a media input unit (not shown) for playing a separate media. An example of such a media input unit is a Blu-ray input unit (not shown) or the like. That is, the set-top box 250 can include a Blu-ray player. The input media such as a Blu-ray disc can be transmitted to the display device 300 via the external device interface 265 for display after signal processing such as demultiplexing or decoding in the signal processor 260 .

The display device 300 includes a tuner 270, an external device interface unit 273, a demodulator 275, a storage unit 278, a control unit 280, a user input interface unit 283, a display unit 290, And an audio output unit 295, as shown in FIG.

The tuner 270, the demodulation unit 275, the storage unit 278, the control unit 280, the user input interface unit 283, the display unit 290, and the audio output unit 295, The user interface unit 150, the display unit 180, and the audio output unit 185 of the tuner 110, the demodulator 120, the storage unit 140, the controller 170, .

On the other hand, the external device interface unit 273 provides an interface for data transmission or reception with an external device connected by wire or wirelessly. In particular, it provides an interface for transmitting or receiving data with the set-top box 250.

Accordingly, a video signal or a voice signal input through the set-top box 250 is output through the display unit 180 or the audio output unit 185 via the control unit 170.

8, the set-top box 250 and the display apparatus 300 are the same as the set-top box 250 and the display apparatus 300 shown in FIG. 7, except that the set- There is a difference in that the position of the projection 275 is located within the set-top box 250 rather than the display device 300. [ Hereinafter, the difference will be mainly described.

The signal processing unit 260 may perform signal processing of a broadcast signal received through the tuner 270 and the demodulation unit 275. Also, the user input interface unit 263 can receive inputs such as channel selection, channel storage, and the like.

9 is a diagram for explaining a process in which any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention communicates with the third devices. The video display device shown in Fig. 9 can correspond to any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention described above.

9, the video display device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may communicate with the broadcasting station 210, the network server 220, or the external device 230.

The video display device 100 can receive a broadcasting signal including a video signal transmitted from the broadcasting station 210. The video display device 100 may process the video signal, the audio signal, or the data signal included in the broadcast signal so as to be suitable for output from the video display device 100. [ The video display device 100 can output video or audio based on the processed video signal.

Meanwhile, the video display device 100 can communicate with the network server 220. The network server 220 is a device capable of transmitting and receiving signals to and from the video display device 100 via an arbitrary network. For example, the network server 220 may be a mobile phone terminal that can be connected to the video display device 100 through a wired or wireless base station. In addition, the network server 220 may be a device capable of providing content to the video display device 100 through the Internet network. The content provider can provide the content to the video display device 100 using the network server.

On the other hand, the video display device 100 can communicate with the external device 230. The external device 230 is a device capable of transmitting and receiving signals directly to the image display device 100 by wire or wirelessly. For example, the external device 230 may be a media storage device or a playback device used by a user. That is, the external device 230 corresponds to, for example, a camera, a DVD or a Blu-ray player, or a personal computer.

The broadcasting station 210, the network server 220, or the external device 230 can transmit a signal including a video signal to the video display device 100. [ The image display device 100 can display an image based on a video signal included in an input signal. The video display device 100 may transmit a signal transmitted from the broadcasting station 210 or the network server 220 to the video display device 100 to the external device 230. In addition, a signal transmitted from the external device 230 to the video display device 100 may be transmitted to the broadcasting station 210 or the network server 220. That is, the video display device 100 not only has a function of directly reproducing the content included in the signals transmitted from the broadcasting station 210, the network server 220, and the external device 230 on the video display device 100, .

10 is an internal block diagram of the control unit shown in FIG. Referring to FIGS. 10 and 6, the following will be described.

The controller 170 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a demultiplexing unit 310, an image processing unit 320, an OSD generating unit 340, a mixer 350, a frame rate converting unit 355, 360). A voice processing unit (not shown), and a data processing unit (not shown).

The demultiplexer 310 demultiplexes the input stream. For example, when an MPEG-2 TS is input, it can be demultiplexed into video, audio, and data signals, respectively. The stream signal input to the demultiplexer 310 may be a stream signal output from the tuner 110 or the demodulator 120 or the external device interface 135.

The image processing unit 320 may perform image processing of the demultiplexed image signal. For this, the image processing unit 320 may include a video decoder 325 and a scaler 335.

The video decoder 325 decodes the demultiplexed video signal and the scaler 335 performs scaling so that the resolution of the decoded video signal can be output from the display unit 180.

The video decoder 325 can include a decoder of various standards.

For example, if the demultiplexed video signal is an MPEG-2 standard encoded video signal, it can be decoded by an MPEG-2 decoder.

Also, for example, if the demultiplexed video signal is an encoded video signal of the H.264 standard according to the DMB (Digital Multimedia Broadcasting) scheme or DVB-H, it can be decoded by the H.264 decoder.

Meanwhile, the video signal decoded by the video processor 320 is input to the mixer 350.

The OSD generation unit 340 generates an OSD signal according to a user input or by itself. For example, based on a control signal from the user input interface unit 150, a signal for displaying various kinds of information in a graphic or text format can be generated on the screen of the display unit 180. The generated OSD signal may include various data such as a user interface screen of the video display device 100, various menu screens, a widget, and an icon.

For example, the OSD generating unit 340 may generate a signal for displaying broadcast information based on a caption of a broadcast image or an EPG.

The mixer 350 may mix the OSD signal generated by the OSD generator 340 and the decoded video signal processed by the image processor 220. The mixed signal is provided to formatter 360. Since the decoded broadcast video signal or the external input signal and the OSD signal are mixed, the OSD can be overlaid on the broadcast image or the external input image.

A frame rate converter (FRC) 355 can convert a frame rate of an input image. For example, a frame rate of 60 Hz is converted to 120 Hz or 240 Hz. When converting the frame rate of 60 Hz to 120 Hz, it is possible to insert the same first frame between the first frame and the second frame, or insert the third frame predicted from the first frame and the second frame. When converting a frame rate of 60 Hz to 240 Hz, it is possible to insert three more identical frames or insert three predicted frames. On the other hand, it is also possible to maintain the input frame rate without performing another conversion.

The formatter 360 receives the output signal of the frame rate conversion unit 355 and changes the format of the signal to be suitable for the display unit 180 and outputs the signal. For example, the R, G, and B data signals may be output as low voltage differential signaling (LVDS) signals or mini-LVDS signals.

On the other hand, the audio processing unit (not shown) in the control unit 170 can perform the audio processing of the demultiplexed audio signal. To this end, the voice processing unit (not shown) may include various decoders.

When a demultiplexed speech signal is a coded speech signal, the speech processing unit (not shown) in the control unit 170 can decode the demultiplexed speech signal. For example, the demultiplexed speech signal may be decoded by an MPEG-2 decoder, an MPEG 4 decoder, an AAC decoder, or an AC-3 decoder.

In addition, the audio processing unit (not shown) in the control unit 170 can process a base, a treble, a volume control, and the like.

The data processing unit (not shown) in the control unit 170 can perform data processing of the demultiplexed data signal. For example, if the demultiplexed data signal is a coded data signal, it can be decoded. The encoded data signal may be EPG (Electronic Program Guide) information including broadcast information such as a start time and an end time of a broadcast program broadcasted on each channel. For example, the EPG information may be ATSC-PSIP (ATSC-Program and System Information Protocol) information in the case of the ATSC scheme and may include DVB-SI information in the DVB scheme .

The ATSC-PSIP information or the DVB-SI information may be information included in the above-described stream, that is, the header (4 bytes) of the MPEG-2 TS.

Meanwhile, since the block diagram of the controller 170 shown in FIG. 10 is a block diagram for an embodiment of the present invention, it is also possible to add other modules according to needs of those skilled in the art, or to omit some of the modules shown.

FIG. 11 is a view showing an example of a platform structure of any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.

12 is a view showing another example of a platform structure of any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.

Any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention may include OS-based software to perform various operations as described above.

11, any one of the visual indicators according to embodiments of the present invention is a separate platform, including a legacy system platform 400 and a smart system platform 405 Can be designed separately. The OS kernel 410 can be commonly used in the legacy system platform 400 and the smart system platform 405.

The legacy system platform 400 may include a driver 420 on the OS kernel 410, a middleware 430, and an application layer 450.

On the other hand, the smart system platform 405 may include a library 435, a framework 440, and an application layer 455 on the OS kernel 410.

The OS kernel 410 is a core of an operating system. It is used as a core of an operating system, such as a hardware driver, a hardware and a processor security in an image display device, an efficient management of system resources, a memory management, Provision of an interface to hardware, multi-process, and schedule management according to multi-processes. Meanwhile, the OS kernel 410 may further provide power management and the like.

The hardware driver in the OS kernel 410 may include at least one of a display driver, a Wi-Fi driver, a Bluetooth driver, a USB driver, an audio driver, a Power management, a Binder driver, .

The hardware driver in the OS kernel 410 is a driver for a hardware device in the OS kernel 410 and includes a character device driver, a block device driver, and a network device driver dirver. Since a block device driver transfers data in units of specific blocks, a buffer for storing a unit size may be required. The character device driver may transmit a basic data unit, i.e., a character unit, so that a buffer may not be needed.

The OS kernel 410 may be implemented in various operating system (OS) based kernels such as UNIX based (Linux) and Windows based. The OS kernel 410 is an open OS kernel, and can be general-purpose which can be used in other electronic devices.

The driver 420 is located between the OS kernel 410 and the middleware 430 and drives the device along with the middleware 430 for operation of the application layer 450. For example, the driver 420 may include a microcomputer, a display module, a graphics processing unit (GPU), a frame rate conversion unit (FRC), a general purpose input / output pin (GPIO) A driver such as HDMI, SDEC (System Decoder or Demultiplexer), VDEC (Video Decoder), ADEC (Audio Decoder), PVR (Personal Video Recorder), or I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) . These drivers operate in conjunction with hardware drivers in the OS kernel 410. [

Further, the driver 420 may further include a remote control device 200, in particular, a driver for a space remote controller, which will be described later. In addition, the driver of the space remote controller may be variously provided in the OS kernel 410 or the middleware 430, in addition to the driver 420.

The middleware 430 is located between the OS kernel 410 and the application layer 450 and can serve as intermediary between other hardware or software to exchange data. Thus, it is possible to provide a standardized interface, various environment support, and system can interoperate with other tasks.

Examples of the middleware 430 in the legacy system platform 400 may be middleware of MHEG (Multimedia and Hypermedia information Coding Experts Group) and ACAP (Advanced Common Application Platform) which are data broadcasting related middleware. Or SI middleware, and peripheral communication related middleware DLNA middleware.

The application layer 450 on the middleware 430, that is, the application 450 layer in the legacy system platform 400, may include a user interface application for various menus and the like in the video display device 100, . The application layer 450 on this middleware 430 may be editable by the user's choice and may be updated over the network. By using the application layer 450, it is possible to enter a desired menu among various user interfaces according to the input of the remote control device while watching the broadcast video.

The application layer 450 within the legacy system platform 400 may also include at least one of a TV guide application, a Bluetooth application, a reservation application, a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) application, .

Meanwhile, the library 435 in the smart system platform 405 is located between the OS kernel 410 and the framework 440, and can form the basis of the framework 440. For example, the library 435 may include a security related library such as Secure Socket Layer (SSL), WebKit (WebKit) related to Web engine, libc (c library), video format and audio format A media framework such as a media-related library, and the like. Such a library 435 may be written on a C or C ++ basis. It can also be exposed to the developer through the framework 440.

The library 435 may include a runtime 437 having a core Java library and a virtual machine (VM). This runtime 437 forms the basis of the framework 440 along with the library 435.

The virtual machine (VM) can be a plurality of instances, that is, a virtual machine that can perform multitasking. On the other hand, each virtual machine (VM) may be allocated and executed in accordance with each application in the application layer 455, at which time a binder (not shown) in the OS kernel 410, for scheduling or inter- Binder) driver (not shown) may be operated.

Meanwhile, the binder driver and the runtime 437 can connect a Java-based application and a C-based library.

On the other hand, the library 435 and the runtime 437 can correspond to the middleware of the legacy system.

On the other hand, the framework 440 in the smart system platform 405 includes a program that is the basis of the application in the application layer 455. [ The framework 440 is compatible with any application and may be capable of reusing, moving or exchanging components. The framework 440 may include a support program, a program for weaving other software components, and the like. For example, a resource manager, an activity manager associated with an activity of an application, a notification manager, a content provider that summarizes shared information between applications, and the like . Such a framework 440 can be created based on Java (JAVA).

The application layer 455 on the framework 440 includes various programs that can be displayed and driven in the video display device 100. [ For example, a Core Application having at least one of an email, a short message service (SMS), a calendar, a map, a browser, etc. . This application layer 450 may be created on a Java (JAVA) basis.

The application layer 455 may be an application 465 stored in the video display device 100 and not deletable by the user, an application 465 downloaded and stored via an external device or a network, 475).

(VOD) service, a web album service, a social networking service (SNS), a location-based service (LBS), a map service, a web search Service, an application search service, and the like may be performed. In addition, various functions such as game and schedule management can be performed.

12, any one of the video display devices according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an OS kernel 510, a driver 520, a middleware 520, A middleware 530, a framework 540, and an application layer 550.

The platform of FIG. 12 differs from FIG. 11 in that the library 435 shown in FIG. 11 is omitted and the application layer 550 is provided as an integrated layer. In addition, the driver 520 and the framework 540 correspond to Fig.

On the other hand, it is possible to design the library 435 shown in FIG. 11 to be merged with the middleware 530 shown in FIG. That is, the middleware 530 is middleware under the legacy system, middleware of MHEG or ACAP, middleware of PSIP or SI, middleware of broadcasting information, DLNA middleware which is middleware related to peripheral communication,

Middleware under the device system can include SSL (Secure Socket Layer) which is a security related library, WebKit (WebKit) which is a web engine related library, libc, and a media framework which is a media related library. On the other hand, it may further include the above-described runtime.

The application layer 550 is an application under the legacy system that can include menu related applications, TV guide applications, reserved applications, etc. and can include email, SMS, calendars, maps, browsers, etc. have.

On the other hand, the application layer 550 includes an application 565 that is stored in the video display device 100 and can not be deleted by the user, an application 565 that is downloaded and stored through an external device or a network, 575).

On the other hand, various application programming interfaces (APIs) and software development kits (SDKs) necessary for application development can be opened based on the platforms of FIGS. 11 and 12 described above. APIs, on the other hand, can be implemented by calling a function that provides a connection to a particular subroutine for execution within the program.

For example, a source related to a hardware driver in the OS kernel 410 such as a display driver, a Wi-Fi driver, a Bluetooth driver, a USB driver, or an audio driver may be opened, A related source in a driver 420 such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), a frame rate converter (FRC), an SDEC, a VDEC, an ADEC or a space remote controller is opened or a PSIP or SI middleware related to broadcasting information, The source associated with the middleware can be opened.

The developers or the like can be operated in the video display device 100 or the application development for controlling the operation of the video display device 100 based on the platforms of FIGS. .

The above-described platforms of Figs. 11 and 12 can be used for general purpose in various electronic apparatuses as well as video display apparatuses. 11 and 12 may be stored or loaded in the storage unit 140 or the control unit 170 or the separate processor (not shown) shown in FIG. 6, The SI & meta data DB 711, the UI manager 714, and the service manager 713, as shown in FIG. In addition, a separate application processor (not shown) for executing an application may be further provided.

13 is a diagram illustrating a control method of a remote controller for controlling any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.

13A illustrates that the pointer 205 corresponding to the remote control device 200 is displayed on the display unit 180. As shown in FIG.

The user can move or rotate the remote control device 200 up and down, left and right (Fig. 13 (b)), and back and forth (Fig. 13 (c)). The pointer 205 displayed on the display unit 180 of the video display device is connected to the remote controller

Corresponds to the motion of the robot 200. In this remote control device 200, as shown in the figure, since the pointer 205 is moved according to the movement in the 3D space, it can be called a space remote controller.

13B illustrates that when the user moves the remote control device 200 to the left, the pointer 205 displayed on the display unit 180 of the video display device also shifts to the left corresponding thereto.

Information on the motion of the remote control device 200 sensed through the sensor of the remote control device 200 is transmitted to the image display device. The video display device can calculate the coordinates of the pointer 205 from the information about the motion of the remote control device 200. [ The video display device can display the pointer 205 so as to correspond to the calculated coordinates.

13C illustrates a case where the user moves the remote control device 200 away from the display unit 180 while the specific button in the remote control device 200 is pressed. Thereby, the selected area in the display unit 180 corresponding to the pointer 205 can be zoomed in and displayed. Conversely, when the user moves the remote control apparatus 200 close to the display unit 180, the selection area within the display unit 180 corresponding to the pointer 205 may be zoomed out and displayed. On the other hand, when the remote control device 200 moves away from the display unit 180, the selected area is zoomed out, and when the remote control device 200 approaches the display unit 180, the selected area may be zoomed in.

On the other hand, when the specific button in the remote control device 200 is pressed, it is possible to exclude recognizing the up, down, left, and right movement. In other words, when the remote control apparatus 200 moves away from or approaches the display unit 180, it is possible to recognize only the forward and backward movements without recognizing the upward / downward movement and the left / right movement. Only the pointer 205 is moved in accordance with the upward / downward movement and the left / right movement of the remote control device 200 in a state where the specific button in the remote control device 200 is not pressed.

On the other hand, the moving speed and moving direction of the pointer 205 may correspond to the moving speed and moving direction of the remote control device 200.

The pointer in the present specification means an object displayed on the display unit 180 in correspondence with the operation of the remote control device 200. [ Therefore, various shapes of objects other than the arrow shapes shown in the figure are possible with the pointer 205. [ For example, it can be a concept that includes points, cursors, prompts, thick outlines, and so on. The pointer 205 may be displayed corresponding to one of the horizontal axis and the vertical axis on the display unit 180 as well as corresponding to a plurality of points such as a line and a surface .

FIG. 14 is an internal block diagram of a remote control device for controlling any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.

The remote control device 200 includes a wireless communication unit 225, a user input unit 235, a sensor unit 240, an output unit 250, a power supply unit 260, a storage unit 270, And may include a control unit 280.

The wireless communication unit 225 transmits / receives signals to / from any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention described above. Of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention, one video display device 100 will be described as an example.

In this embodiment, the remote control device 200 may include an RF module 221 that can transmit and receive signals to and from the image display device 100 according to the RF communication standard. In addition, the remote control apparatus 200 may include an IR module 223 capable of transmitting and receiving signals with the image display apparatus 100 according to the IR communication standard.

In this embodiment, the remote control device 200 transmits a signal containing information on the motion of the remote control device 200 to the image display device 100 through the RF module 221.

Also, the remote control device 200 can receive the signal transmitted by the video display device 100 through the RF module 221. [ Also, the remote control device 200 can transmit a command regarding power on / off, channel change, volume change, and the like to the image display device 100 through the IR module 223 as necessary.

The user input unit 235 may include a keypad, a button, a touch pad, or a touch screen. The user can input a command related to the image display device 100 to the remote control device 200 by operating the user input unit 235. [ When the user input unit 235 has a hard key button, the user can input a command related to the image display device 100 to the remote control device 200 through the push operation of the hard key button. When the user input unit 235 has a touch screen, the user can touch a soft key of the touch screen to input a command related to the image display device 100 to the remote control device 200. [ In addition, the user input unit 235 may include various types of input means such as a scroll key, a jog key, and the like that can be operated by the user, and the present invention does not limit the scope of the present invention.

The sensor unit 240 may include a gyro sensor 241 or an acceleration sensor 243.

The gyro sensor 241 can sense information on the motion of the remote control device 200. [

For example, the gyro sensor 241 can sense information about the operation of the remote control device 200 based on the x, y, and z axes. The acceleration sensor 243 can sense information on the moving speed of the remote control device 200 and the like. Meanwhile, a distance measuring sensor may be additionally provided, so that the distance to the display unit 180 can be sensed.

The output unit 250 may output an image or voice signal corresponding to the operation of the user input unit 235 or corresponding to the signal transmitted from the image display device 100. [ The user can recognize whether the user input unit 235 is operated or whether the video display device 100 is controlled through the output unit 250.

For example, the output unit 250 may include an LED module 251 that is turned on when a user input unit 235 is operated or a signal is transmitted to or received from the video display device 100 through the wireless communication unit 225, 253 for outputting sound, an acoustic output module 255 for outputting sound, or a display module 257 for outputting an image.

The power supply unit 260 supplies power to the remote control device 200. The power supply unit 260 can reduce the power consumption by stopping the power supply when the remote controller 200 is not moving for a predetermined time. The power supply unit 260 may resume power supply when a predetermined key provided in the remote control device 200 is operated.

The storage unit 270 may store various types of programs, application data, and the like necessary for the control or operation of the remote control apparatus 200. [ When the remote control device 200 wirelessly transmits and receives a signal through the image display device 100 and the RF module 221, the remote control device 200 and the image display device 100 transmit signals through a predetermined frequency band Send and receive. The control unit 280 of the remote control device 200 stores information on the frequency band or the like capable of wirelessly transmitting and receiving signals with the image display device 100 paired with the remote control device 200 in the storage unit 270 Can be referenced.

The control unit 280 controls various matters related to the control of the remote control device 200. [ The control unit 280 transmits a signal corresponding to a predetermined key operation of the user input unit 235 or a signal corresponding to the motion of the remote control device 200 sensed by the sensor unit 240, (100).

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a first embodiment of a user interface provided by any one of the image display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.

16 is a diagram illustrating a second embodiment of a user interface provided by any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.

17 is a diagram illustrating a third embodiment of a user interface provided by any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.

18 is a view showing a fourth embodiment of a user interface provided by any one of the video display devices according to the embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 15 illustrates that a list of applications on the network is displayed on the display unit 180. Fig. That is, it is possible for the user to directly access the content server or the network server to search for and download various applications.

FIG. 15A illustrates that various application lists 610 in a connected server are displayed on the display unit 180. FIG. The application list 610 may include an icon representing each application and a brief description information for each application. Meanwhile, since the image display device according to the embodiments of the present invention can perform full browsing, it is possible to enlarge and display the size of icon or explanation information received from the connected server. Thus, the user can easily grasp the application item. This will be described later.

Next, FIG. 15 exemplifies selection of any one of the application items 620 of the application list 610 by using the pointer 205 of the remote control device 200. FIG. As a result, the application can be easily downloaded.

On the other hand, Fig. 16 illustrates that an application list in the video display device is displayed on the display unit 180. Fig. 16A shows an application list 660 stored in the video display device according to the embodiments of the present invention when the user enters the application list view item by the operation of the remote control device 200 And the display unit 180 will be described. In the drawing, only the icon representing each application is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and may include brief explanatory information for each application, as shown in FIG. Thus, the user can easily grasp the application item.

Next, FIG. 16B exemplifies selection of any one of the application items 660 of the application list 660 by using the pointer 205 of the remote control device 200. FIG. As a result, the application can be easily executed.

Meanwhile, it is illustrated that the pointer 205 moving according to the user's movement is moved to the remote control device 200 shown in Figs. 15 and 16 to select a predetermined item. In the embodiment of the present invention, Various other examples are possible without limitation. For example, a predetermined item can be selected by using the cursor displayed on the screen by the combination of the direction key and the confirmation key disposed in the remote control device 200 or the local key (not shown).

As another example, when the remote control apparatus includes a touch pad, the pointer 205 moves on the display unit 180 by the touch operation of the touch pad, and a predetermined item can be selected by using the pointer.

On the other hand, Fig. 17 illustrates that the web screen is displayed on the display unit of the video display device.

17A illustrates that a searchable predetermined web screen 710 having a search window 720 is displayed on the display unit 180. In this case, The user can use a character key (not shown) provided on a keypad (not shown) or a local key (not shown) displayed on the screen or a character key (not shown) 720, it is possible to input a predetermined character.

Next, FIG. 17B illustrates that a search result screen 730 according to a search word entered in the search window is displayed on the display unit 180. FIG. Since the video display device according to the embodiment of the present invention can perform full browsing in displaying the web screen, the user can easily grasp the web screen.

On the other hand, Fig. 18 illustrates that the web screen is displayed on the display unit of the video display device.

18A illustrates that a mail service screen 810 having an ID input window 820 and a password input window 825 is displayed on the display unit 180. [ The user can input an ID input window (not shown) using a character key (not shown) provided on a keypad (not shown) or a local key (not shown) displayed on the screen or a character key It is possible to input a predetermined character into the password input window 820 and the password input window 825. As a result, the user can log in to the corresponding mail service.

Next, FIG. 18B illustrates that a screen 830 after login to the mail service is displayed on the display unit 180. FIG. For example, items such as 'Read a letter', 'Write a letter', 'Sent', 'Inbox', and 'Trash' items can be illustrated. In addition, the 'Inbox' item is classified into 'From' item and 'Title' item, and the mail can be sorted and displayed.

The video display device according to the embodiment of the present invention can perform full browsing when displaying the mail service screen, so that the user can easily use the mail service.

19 is a diagram illustrating a broadcasting system 1000 including a video display device and a server according to an embodiment of the present invention.

A plurality of video display devices 1001 and 1002 may be connected to the Internet network 1006 via an access point (AP) 1005 and may further include a cable set top box 1004 connected to the video display device, The satellite broadcast set-top box 1003 may be connected to the Internet network 1006. In addition, the video display device and the set-top box connected to the Internet network 1006 can receive predetermined data from the server 1007 through the Internet network.

The video display device 1001 with a wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) module transmits and receives data by wireless communication with the AP 1005 using the built-in wireless Internet module, or transmits the data to the AP 1005 ) And can transmit and receive data.

The video display device 1002 having no built-in wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) module is connected to the AP 1005 through a wireless Internet dongle (Wi-Fi Dongle) through an external device interface of the video display device, And can exchange data with the AP 1005 by using a wired Internet module.

The AP 1005 is an Internet router, and the video display device can be connected to the Internet network through wired / wireless communication means. The AP 1005 is a functional entity that provides a connection to the Internet network 1006 via a wireless medium for the associated video display devices 1001 and 1002. The AP may also be referred to as a centralized controller, a base station (BS), a node-B, a base transceiver system (BTS), a site controller or the like in addition to the name of the access point.

The satellite broadcast set-top box 1003 is an apparatus for receiving various image data of multiple channels transmitted separately from a terrestrial broadcast receiver of an image display apparatus and transmitted through a network or satellite, And receives compressed moving picture experts group (MPEG) compressed digital broadcast data to extend compressed data, decodes the encoded data, and converts it into a standard Advanced Television System Committee (ATSC) signal for display on an image display device. Also, it may be connected to the Internet network 1006 through the network or satellite, and may transmit and receive data with the server 1007.

The cable set-top box 1004 is a device for receiving various image data of various channels transmitted through a cable network. The cable set-top box 1004 can receive broadcast data through the cable network, ). ≪ / RTI > That is, the video display device can transmit and receive data to and from the server 1007 through a cable network connected to the cable set-top box 1004.

The server 1007 may include a server operated by a service provider (SP) or a contents provider (CP).

As described with reference to FIG. 1, the server 1007 can provide various contents data and various applications, and can provide contents packages provided by a contents provider (CP) in a service package.

In addition, the server 1007 may transmit a search word related to a channel, a specific channel, or content that the current user is viewing through the video display devices 1001 and 1002 and the set-top boxes 1003 and 1004 Information about the input channel can be collected through the Internet network 1006, and a real-time channel search list can be generated based on the collected data and transmitted to the video display device and the set-top box.

That is, through the operation of the server 1007, the user can check the real-time channel search list and easily select the channel or the content.

The operation for providing the real-time channel search list will be described in detail below with reference to FIG.

In this figure, a Wi-Fi module is provided in the video display devices 1001 and 1002, or a wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) module is installed in a dongle, The video display devices 1001 and 1002 may be divided into a set-top box and a display unit.

That is, the set-top box transmits and receives data related to the Internet and a real-time channel search list through a wire / wireless network, generates and processes the real-time channel search list, transmits a predetermined control signal to the display unit, So that the list is displayed.

Therefore, even when the user uses the video display device not provided with the network communication function through the Internet, the user can receive the display screen for the real time channel search list through the settop box capable of operating according to the embodiments of the present invention have.

20 is a diagram illustrating a process of displaying a real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to an embodiment, the video display device may provide various real-time channel search lists in order to facilitate smooth channel selection of the user.

The real-time channel search list is a window through which various users connected to the Internet network can confirm information about whether a channel or contents are searched through the Internet network. Explain.

That is, in order to provide the real-time channel search list to the user, the video display device displays predetermined content or receives a channel search command in the video display device (S101).

The contents may include various contents available in the image display devices such as broadcast contents, game contents, music contents and the like.

The video display device can display the content by receiving the content selection signal directly from the user.

According to another embodiment, the video display device receives the channel search signal including the channel search condition from the user, searches the channel corresponding to the search condition through the network, displays the channel list according to the search result And receive the one or more channel selection signals included in the searched channel list to display the contents of the channel corresponding to the selection signal.

Next, the video display device transmits the information of the content currently being used in the video display device and the user information to the server via the network (S102).

The server may include a server operated by a content provider (CP) or a service provider (SP), and the video display device may transmit the content information previously stored in the video display device and the transfer agreement information It is possible to perform the transmission process only in the case where the "

In addition, the content information may include a broadcast time of the content, broadcasting station information, performer information, and the like. If the selected content is the content selected through the search process, the video display device may display the content included in the channel search condition input by the user Information including a search word or the like can be displayed together.

The user information may include a user ID or a serial number of the video display device, location information of the video display device, and the like. In particular, the image display device can search for GPS data through a location recognition module included in an image display device to acquire location information, and include the retrieved GPS data in the location information.

Next, the server collects information of the content and user information being used in the video display device from the video display devices connected to the server and the Internet network (S103).

According to an embodiment, the server may be networked with a plurality of video display devices. Thus, the server can receive a plurality of contents information and user information, and can store the received information.

In addition, the server can collect only content information or user information transmitted from the video display device included in the subscriber information based on the stored subscriber information.

Next, the server combines the collected information and generates rank information (S104).

The server searches for the contents most used or searched for in the video display devices connected to the current server through the network based on the decoded information, and calculates the search ranking of the contents according to the search result have.

According to the embodiment, the server can collect the collection period of the data based on various criteria such as one day, one week, one month, etc. In the ranking calculation, the server can collect the contents of the drama contents Ranking information classified into a search ranking, a search ranking of movie content, a search ranking of music content, and the like.

Further, according to the embodiment, it is possible to generate ranking information subdivided by use class. That is, it is possible to generate ranking information in which the content of the usable grade of 15 years or older is deleted, ranking information in which the content of the usable grade of 18 years or older is deleted, and the like.

Next, the server transmits the generated ranking information to each video display device (S105).

The server can transmit the generated ranking information to each video display device connected to the server through the Internet network.

In this case, according to the embodiment, the subscriber information can be searched and the ranking information can be transmitted only to the video display device having the matching subscription information among the video display devices connected to the network.

According to the embodiment, when only the specific ranking information is requested by the video display device, only the specific ranking information according to the request signal can be transmitted. That is, for example, only the ranking information in which the content of the usable grade of 15 years or older is deleted may be transmitted to the video display device.

Next, the image display device displays the ranking information received from the server (S106).

The ranking information may be channel search information of each video display device connected to the server through a network.

When the video display device receives the ranking information from the server through the Internet network, the video display device may display a real-time channel search list including the received ranking information in a predetermined area of the display part and provide the displayed real-

According to the embodiment, the video display device can display the real-time channel search list corresponding to the position information based on the position information of the video display device. That is, when the location of the video display device is searched in Gangnam-gu, a real-time channel search list including only ranking information in the Gangnam area can be displayed.

According to another embodiment, the video display device may display the ranking information together with the EPG information window displayed on the video display device.

Also, the video display device searches the current video display device for the content item included in the ranking information, and displays the unavailable content item different from the available content item based on the search result .

In addition, the video display device can receive the ranking information from the server again and update the real-time channel search list after a certain period of time that the ranking information has been received from the server to the video display device. The predetermined time may be changed to 30 minutes, 1 hour, or the like depending on user setting.

Therefore, through the above steps, the user can easily acquire information for selecting a channel in the video display device, so that the convenience of using the video display device of the user is improved.

In FIG. 20, only a process of displaying a real-time channel search list through data communication between the video display device and the server is shown. However, according to the embodiment, the video display device may be divided into a display unit and a set-top box.

Accordingly, the step of displaying the content and receiving the channel search command (S101) may be divided into a step of displaying content on the display unit and a step of receiving a channel search command in the set-top box, The step of displaying the received ranking information (S105) includes receiving the ranking information in the set-top box, transmitting a control signal for displaying the received ranking information to the display unit, and displaying the ranking information in the display unit And the like.

 That is, the user can receive the real-time channel search list through various video display devices by having only the set-top box capable of operating according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a display screen 1100 including a real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to an embodiment, the video display device may provide the user with a real time channel search list 1101.

The real-time channel search list 1101 may include information on which channel is being viewed or which channel is being searched in the video display devices connected to the network.

21, the video display device displays predetermined contents on a display unit, and receives a call signal of a real-time channel search list or a selection signal of a predetermined menu item for displaying the real- The real-time channel search list 1101 can be displayed in a predetermined area of the display screen.

The real-time channel search list 1101 may be displayed minimized or displayed in a translucent color so as not to interfere with the display screen of the content being displayed on the video display device.

In addition, the real-time channel search list 1101 may include a refresh button 1103. Accordingly, when the selection signal of the refresh button 1103 is input from the user, the video display device requests new real-time channel search information to the server through the network, receives the new real-time channel search information, The real-time channel search list 1101 can be updated. In addition to the case where the update is performed by selecting the refresh button 1103, the update may cause the image display device to perform the update operation according to a predetermined period. The setting of the update period will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

In addition, the real-time channel search list 1101 may be received at another image display device connected to the network, or may include ranking information 1102 for the searched channel.

That is, referring to this figure, it can be recognized that the most watched or most searched content in the video display device connected to the network is 'MBC infinite challenge', and the next content is 'MBC dominance'.

The real-time channel search list shown in FIG. 21 includes only the information on the broadcasting station and the content name. However, according to another embodiment, the real-time channel search list may further include various information such as a broadcasting station logo and a content image.

FIG. 22 is a view illustrating a display screen 1200 including a real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to an embodiment, the real-time channel search list may include different ranking information according to various time intervals.

For example, referring to FIG. 22, the video display device can display a daily channel search list 1201, a weekly channel search list 1202, and a monthly channel search list 1203, respectively.

The daily channel search list 1201 collects channel viewing information or channel search information of today's video display devices connected to a network and displays the channel viewing information or the channel search information in the order of the most watched channels during one day, And may include the daily channel search ranking information in which rank information is generated in the order of the channels.

Also, the weekly channel search list 1202 collects channel viewing information or channel search information for one week of video display devices connected to the network in the server, and displays the channel viewing information or channel search information for one week in the order of the most viewed channels in one week, And may include weekly channel search ranking information in which rank information is generated in the order of the most searched channels.

The monthly channel search list 1201 collects channel viewing information or channel search information for one month of video display devices connected to the network in the server and displays the channel viewing information in the order of the most viewed channels in one month, And may include the daily channel search ranking information in which rank information is generated in the order of the channels.

Therefore, the video display device can simultaneously display the daily channel search list 1201, the weekly channel search list 1202, and the monthly channel search list 1203 as shown in FIG. 22 and provide the same to the user. Only one of the daily channel search list 1201, the weekly channel search list 1202, and the monthly channel search list 1203 may be displayed and provided to the user.

23 is a view illustrating a display screen including a genre-specific real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to an embodiment, the real-time channel search list may include rank information that is different from each other according to various genres.

23, the video display device can display a drama channel search list 1301, a music channel search list 1302, and a comedy channel search list 1303, respectively.

In the drama channel search list 1301, the server collects channel viewing information or channel search information of image display devices connected to the network, and searches for the most viewed channels in the order of the most viewed channels or in the order of the most searched channels in one day And generates channel rank of the drama genre by extracting only rank information about the channel corresponding to the drama genre from the generated ranking information. The server can search and use the EPG information included in the broadcast signal to determine whether the content of each channel corresponds to the drama genre.

The music channel search list 1302 collects channel viewing information or channel search information of video display devices connected to the network in the server and searches the music channel search list 1302 in order of the most viewed channels or in the order of the most searched channels in one day And generates a channel rank of a music broadcasting genre by extracting only rank information on a channel corresponding to the music broadcasting genre from the generated ranking information. The server can retrieve and use the EPG information included in the broadcast signal to determine whether the content of each channel corresponds to the music broadcasting genre.

The comedy channel search list 1301 collects channel viewing information or channel search information of video display devices connected to a network and displays the comedy channel search listings 1301 in order of the most viewed channels or in the order of the most searched channels in one day And generates a channel rank of a comedy genre by extracting only rank information on a channel corresponding to the comedy genre from the generated rank information. The server can search and use the EPG information included in the broadcast signal to determine whether the content of each channel corresponds to the comedy genre.

Therefore, the video display device can simultaneously display the drama channel search list 1301, the music channel search list 1302, and the comedy channel search list 1303 as shown in FIG. 23 and provide the same to the user. Only one of the drama channel search list 1301, the music channel search list 1302, and the comedy channel search list 1303 may be displayed and provided to the user.

24 is a view illustrating a display screen including an EPG information window for displaying real-time channel search ranking information according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to an embodiment, the video display device may display an EPG information window 1401 for displaying EPG (Electronic Program Guide) information related to the displayed content while displaying predetermined content on a display screen.

The EPG information is broadcast content guidance service that sends TV content broadcasting time, contents, performer information, etc. using an empty frequency band or an additional channel of terrestrial broadcasting. The EPG information is the same electronic program guide as the printed TV content guide, and the received EPG information is stored in a set top box, a storage device in the broadcast receiver, or the like. The viewer can select and schedule content by operating the EPG with a remote control, order pay per view contents, search contents by subject or genre, and record video.

Accordingly, the video display device may include information 1402 on broadcast station information, content name, broadcast time, and the like in the EPG information window 1401.

In addition, the video display device can display the content rating information 1403 in the EPG information window 1401.

That is, as shown in FIG. 22, the video display device can not only provide the audience rating ranking information to the user through the list displayed in the separate window, but also can display the EPG information Can be displayed to the user through the EPG information window 1401 and the current rating information can be provided to the user.

The audience rating information may include channel view information or channel search information in each video display device at a predetermined server and information about ranking calculated based on the collected information.

According to the embodiment, the video display device can display the hot key input signal for calling the EPG information window of the user or the selection signal of the predetermined menu item when the EPG information window is input, and when the EPG information window is displayed for the first time The EPG information about the content being displayed on the current video display device is displayed and then the EPG information search of the content different from the content displayed on the current video display device is possible according to the key input of the user.

Accordingly, in the case of the audience rating information included in the EPG information window, in the same manner as the EPG information, when the first EPG information window is displayed, audience rating information on the content currently displayed on the video display device is displayed, When the EPG information displayed in the EPG information window is changed to EPG information of other contents according to the key input, the audience rating information of the contents corresponding to the changed EPG information may be displayed.

Also, according to the embodiment, the audience rating ranking information 1403 can be automatically displayed in the EPG information window when the EPG information window is displayed, and the user can input a separate hotkey input signal or a selection signal of a specific menu item It can be included in the EPG information window and displayed.

FIG. 25 is a view illustrating a display screen 1500 including a real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, when displaying a channel search list, the image display device transmits local information about an area where the current image display device is located to a server, And receives the data and displays the real-time channel search list 1501 including the real-time channel search ranking 1502 of the corresponding region.

In addition, according to another embodiment, the video display device receives data related to the real-time channel search list for each region, and displays a channel search list corresponding to the area where the current video display device is located.

In order to generate real-time channel search list data for each region, the server receives area information of an area where each video display device is located together with content use information and search information from an image display device connected to the server, The real-time channel search list for each region can be displayed based on the local information.

That is, referring to FIG. 25, it can be understood that contents related to 'MBC Korean marriage' are most used or retrieved among video display devices currently located in Gangnam-gu. Accordingly, the user can grasp what content is searched or used in the area where the user is currently located.

If the user inputs a selection signal of the location change item 1504, the video display device provides the real-time channel search list for each region in the video display device Display a list of available regions, receive one or more regional selection signals from the user, and provide information on the real-time channel search listings of the regions corresponding to the user's selection signal.

FIG. 26 is a view illustrating a display screen 1600 including a real-time channel search list in which channel use information is displayed according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to the embodiment, when displaying the real-time channel search list 1601, the video display device may display the content or channel included in the real-time channel search list including the content use information.

The content utilization information may include image data or text that can determine whether each content or channel is currently available in the video display device.

Referring to FIG. 26, the user selects 'MBC Infinite Challenge' 1602, 'MBC Come True' 1603, and 'SBS Stocking' 1606 among the contents included in the real time channel search list 1601 The 'TVN roller coaster' 1604 and the 'MNET superstar K' 1605 can recognize that the content is not available in the current image display device.

The unavailable content may include content that is not available depending on the service subscription status of the user currently using the video display device and may include content that is not available depending on the network connection status of the video display device at present can do.

26, the video display device may display contents that are not available in the current video display device among the contents included in the real time channel search list 1601 in a different color from the usable contents, It is possible to display the real-time channel search list 1601 by deleting unavailable contents.

FIG. 27 is a view illustrating a display screen 1700 including a real-time channel search list for displaying channel detail information according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to the embodiment, when displaying the real-time channel search list 1701, the image display device may further include detailed information 1703 regarding the content selected by the pointer 1702 among the contents included in the real- Can be displayed.

That is, in a state where the real-time channel search list 1701 is displayed, the user inputs a movement signal of the pointer 1702 to be displayed on the video display device and performs a predetermined operation, And the detailed information 1703 can be checked.

The detailed information 1703 may include broadcasting station information of a content, time information, performer information, and the like, and may include information extracted from information related to the selected content among EPG information received by the video display device.

In addition, the user can input a selection signal after moving the pointer 1702 in order to display the detailed information 1703. According to another embodiment, the pointer 1702 may be displayed on any content over a certain period of time It can be recognized that the selection signal is input.

27, since the real-time channel search list 1701 is displayed on the video display device and the pointer 1702 is positioned on the MBC infinite challenge content, the video display device displays the details related to the MBC infinite challenge Information 1703 can be further displayed.

28 is a view showing a display screen 1800 including a real-time channel search list in which a parental control function is set according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to the embodiment, when displaying the real-time channel search list, the video display device can display and display the content items included in the real-time channel search list according to the user setting.

That is, for example, if the user has set up a kids-lock function, the video display device may display a list of content items included in the real-time channel search list, It is possible to display the real-time channel search list by deleting the content item.

In addition, the video display device may further include a setting notification window 1802 informing that the kids-lock function is being set up, and may display an off menu item for canceling the setting of the kids-lock function 1803) can be further displayed.

According to the embodiment, when the selection signal of the cancel menu item 1803 is inputted from the user, the video display device can request the user to input a predetermined password.

In addition, when the user sets the kids-lock function, the user can set the usage restriction to various ranges such as excluding the content over the age of 19 and excluding the content over the age of 15.

FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating a display screen 1900 including a menu for setting an update period of a real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to an embodiment, when displaying a real-time channel search list, the video display device can update the real-time channel search list and set a cycle for the update.

29, the video display device may display an update period setting menu 1901 for setting an update period of a real time channel search list, and the update period setting menu may include menu items 1902, 1903, 1904).

The update period setting menu 1901 may be displayed when a hot key input signal for calling an update period setting menu or a selection signal of a predetermined menu item is inputted.

In addition, according to the embodiment, the video display device may include a menu item for setting an automatic update of the real-time channel search list in units of 30 minutes (1902) or 1 hour unit (1903) And a menu item 1904 for setting to update the real-time channel search list only when a signal is input.

That is, the user can set various periods for updating the real-time channel search list of the video display device in consideration of the network connection status of the video display device and the user's usage behavior.

30 is a view illustrating a display screen 2000 including a real-time channel search list having an advertisement area according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to an embodiment, when displaying a real-time channel search list, the video display device may further include an advertisement area in the real-time channel search list.

For example, referring to FIG. 30, the video display device may display a real-time channel search list 2001 and further include an advertisement area 2002 in a lower portion of the real-time channel search list 2001 .

In the advertisement area 2002, an image or text previously stored in the image display device can be displayed as an advertisement, and advertisement data can be received from a predetermined server and displayed. In addition, the server may receive local information or user information of the image display device, and may transmit the advertisement data suitable for the image display device to the image display device and display the advertisement data.

31 is a view illustrating a home screen including a real-time channel search list according to an embodiment of the present invention.

According to the embodiment, the video display device can display a home screen for executing or managing various functions of the video display device.

Also, the real-time channel search list 2100 can be displayed as one of the menu items of the home screen, and the video display device can more smoothly transmit the channel search information to the user.

The image display apparatus and the operation method thereof according to the present invention are not limited to the configurations and the methods of the embodiments described above, but the embodiments can be applied to all or some of the embodiments May be selectively combined.

Meanwhile, the operation method of the video display device of the present invention can be implemented as a code that can be read by a processor on a recording medium readable by a processor included in the video display device. The processor-readable recording medium includes all kinds of recording apparatuses in which data that can be read by the processor is stored. Examples of the recording medium that can be read by the processor include a ROM, a RAM, a CD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a floppy disk, an optical data storage device, and the like, and may also be implemented in the form of a carrier wave such as transmission over the Internet . In addition, the processor-readable recording medium may be distributed over network-connected computer systems so that code readable by the processor in a distributed fashion can be stored and executed.

While the present invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments, but, on the contrary, It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

100: Multimedia device
105: Broadcast receiver
110: tuner
120: demodulator
130: Network interface unit
135: External device interface unit
140:
150:
170:
171: Cursor detection unit
180:
185: Audio output section
190: Power supply
200: remote control device

Claims (20)

A method for providing a real-time channel search list of a video display device,
Displaying any content;
Transmitting content information corresponding to the displayed content to a server through a network;
Requesting the server for real-time channel search list data to which specific ranking information is applied;
Receiving real-time channel search list data to which the specific ranking information is applied from the server;
And displaying a real-time channel search list based on the transmitted data,
The specific ranking information may include:
Wherein the time information corresponds to at least one of ranking information according to a time interval or ranking information according to a genre, and the time interval is at least one of a day, a week, and a month. The method according to claim 1,
The real-time channel search list data includes:
And a content display unit for displaying content information including content ranking information based on the number of times displayed on the video display device connected to the server via the network
A method for providing a real time channel search list of a video display device. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the step of transmitting the content information to a server via a network comprises:
Searching location information of the image display device; And
Transmitting the retrieved location information to a server via a network
Further comprising:
Wherein the displaying the real-time channel search list comprises:
Displaying a real-time channel search list corresponding to the location information
Wherein the real-time channel search list of the video display device is provided to the user. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the displaying the real-time channel search list comprises:
Receiving advertisement data from the server; And
Further comprising displaying an advertisement image according to the transmitted advertisement data in the real time channel search list
Wherein the real-time channel search list of the video display device is provided to the user. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the displaying of the arbitrary content comprises:
Receiving a channel search signal including a channel search condition;
Retrieving a channel corresponding to the search condition through a network;
Displaying a channel list according to the search result;
Receiving at least one channel selection signal included in the searched channel list; And
Displaying the contents of the channel corresponding to the selection signal
Wherein the real-time channel search list of the video display device is provided to the user. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the displaying the real-time channel search list comprises:
Displaying the received EPG information on the image display device;
And displaying the EPG information further including ranking information based on the transmitted data in the displayed EPG information
Wherein the real-time channel search list of the video display device is provided to the user. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the displaying the real-time channel search list comprises:
Retrieving whether or not each of the content items included in the real time channel search list is available in the video display device; And
Displaying the unavailable content item differently from the available content item based on the search result
Wherein the real-time channel search list of the video display device is provided to the user. The method according to claim 1,
Receiving at least one selection signal among the content items included in the real time channel search list; And
Displaying detailed information corresponding to the selected content item
Wherein the real-time channel search list of the video display device is provided to the user. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the displaying the real-time channel search list comprises:
Retrieving predetermined usage class restriction information;
Determining whether each of the content items included in the real-time channel search list matches the usage class restriction information; And
Deleting a content item that does not match the usage class restriction information based on the determination result, and displaying the real-time channel search list
Wherein the real-time channel search list of the video display device is provided to the user. The method according to claim 1,
Retrieving the preset update period information;
Receiving the real-time channel search list data again from the server corresponding to the retrieved update period information; And
Displaying a real-time channel search list based on the retransmitted data
Wherein the real-time channel search list of the video display device is provided to a user. A video display device connected to a network,
A display unit for displaying arbitrary contents;
A network interface unit for transmitting and receiving data to and from a server through a network;
An additional information management unit for generating content information of the displayed content; And
A controller for transmitting the generated content information to the server through the network interface unit, receiving real-time channel search list data from the server, and displaying on the display unit a real-time channel search list based on the received data, Lt; / RTI >
Wherein,
Wherein the control unit is configured to search for each of the content items included in the real time channel search list available in the video display device and to display the unavailable content item different from the available content item based on the search result,
Video display devices connected to the network. 12. The method of claim 11,
The real-time channel search list data includes:
And a display unit for displaying the contents of the image displayed on the display unit,
Video display devices connected to the network. 12. The method of claim 11,
Wherein the additional information management unit comprises:
Generates location information of the video display device,
Wherein,
Transmits the generated location information together with the content information to the server through the network interface unit, and controls to display a real-time channel search list corresponding to the location information
Video display devices connected to the network. 12. The method of claim 11,
The network interface unit,
Receiving advertisement data from the server,
Wherein,
And controls to display the advertisement image according to the transmitted data in the real-time channel search list
Video display devices connected to the network. 12. The method of claim 11,
A user interface unit for receiving a channel search signal including a channel search condition,
Further comprising:
Wherein,
A channel search unit for searching for a channel corresponding to the search condition through the network, displaying a channel list according to the search result, receiving one or more channel selection signals included in the searched channel list, Displaying the content on the display unit
Video display devices connected to the network. 12. The method of claim 11,
Wherein,
Displays the received EPG information on the video display device, and controls the display device to display the EPG information further including ranking information based on the received data
Video display devices connected to the network. delete 12. The method of claim 11,
Further comprising a user interface unit for receiving a predetermined video display device control signal,
Wherein,
The control unit controls the display unit to receive at least one selection signal among the content items included in the real-time channel search list through the user interface unit and to display detailed information corresponding to the selected content item
Video display devices connected to the network. 12. The method of claim 11,
Wherein,
The service providing system comprising: an image display unit configured to display usage class restriction information preset in the image display device, determine whether each of the content items included in the real time channel search list matches the usage rating restriction information, And to display the real-time channel search list
Video display devices connected to the network. 12. The method of claim 11,
Wherein,
Searches the preset display period information in the video display device and controls the real-time channel search list to be updated by receiving the real-time channel search list data again from the server in response to the retrieved update period information
Video display devices connected to the network.

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