Mobile terminal and method for controlling the same

A mobile terminal including a display including a first area and a second area extended in at least one direction of the first area; a wireless communication processor configured to wirelessly communicate with an external device; and a controller configured to display, in the second area, visual information corresponding to at least one replay file executed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the external device, based on the mobile terminal being connected to the external device when the first area and the second area are non-activated, and execute the at least one replay file, based on a predetermined touch input applied to the second area.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2015-0097360, filed on Jul. 8, 2015, which is herein expressly incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present disclosure relates to a mobile terminal including a display unit composed of a plurality of areas and a method for controlling the mobile terminal.

2. Description of the Conventional Art

As a mobile terminal has enhanced functions and reinforced multimedia functions, the size of a display unit becomes larger, and the image quality of the display unit becomes higher as high resolution. Therefore, a large amount of power is consumed in driving the display unit of the mobile terminal.

In general, if a display unit is activated, the entire screen of the display unit is activated, and hence almost constant power is always consumed. Therefore, as the time for which the display unit is left in the activated state increases, the power consumption of a battery increases.

In addition, there exist needs to execute different replay files according to kinds of external devices connected to a terminal. However, a replay file which is being executed is currently reproduced regardless of the kind of external device connected to the terminal.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, an aspect of the detailed description is to provide a mobile terminal and a method for controlling the same, which can independently activate a portion of a display unit according to a user's demand, thereby reducing power consumption.

Another aspect of the detailed description is to provide a mobile terminal and a method for controlling the same, which can selectively activate and operate a partial area in a single display unit composed of a main area and an extension area.

Still another aspect of the detailed description is to provide a mobile terminal and a method for controlling the same, in which when the mobile terminal is connected to an external device, a list of replay files which were executed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the external device can be activated and output in an extension area of a display unit.

To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of this specification, as embodied and broadly described herein, a mobile terminal includes: a display unit configured to include a first area and a second area formed to extend in at least one direction of the first area; a wireless communication unit configured to transmit/receive signals of an external device; and a controller configured to output, in the second area, visual information corresponding to at least one replay file which was executed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the external device, based on that the mobile terminal is connected to the external device when the first area and the second area are non-activated, and control execution of the at least one replay file, based on a predetermined touch input is applied to the second area.

To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of this specification, as embodied and broadly described herein, a method for controlling a mobile terminal includes: (a) outputting, in a second area formed to extend in at least one direction of a first area, visual information corresponding to at least one replay file which was executed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to an external device, based on that the mobile terminal is connected to the external device when the first area and the second area are non-activated; and (b) controlling executing of the at least one replay file, based on that a predetermined touch input is applied to the second area.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Description will now be given in detail according to embodiments disclosed herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the sake of brief description with reference to the drawings, the same or equivalent components may be provided with the same or similar reference numbers, and description thereof will not be repeated. In general, a suffix such as “module” and “unit” may be used to refer to elements or components. Use of such a suffix herein is merely intended to facilitate description of the specification, and the suffix itself is not intended to give any special meaning or function. The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand various technical features and it should be understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings. As such, the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying drawings.

The sensing unit140is typically implemented using one or more sensors configured to sense internal information of the mobile terminal, the surrounding environment of the mobile terminal, user information, and the like. For example, inFIG. 1A, the sensing unit140is shown having a proximity sensor141and an illumination sensor142.

At least some of the above components may operate in a cooperating manner, so as to implement an operation or a control method for a glass type terminal according to various embodiments to be explained later. The operation or the control method for the glass type terminal may be implemented on the glass type terminal by driving at least one application program stored in the memory170.

The touch sensor provided at the display unit151may be configured to sense taps in an activated state and a deactivated state, using different methods. The different methods may be associated with an activation period of the touch sensor. More specifically, the touch sensor may be activated with a different period according to an activated state or a deactivated state of the display unit151. That is, the touch sensor may sense a tap applied thereon, with a different activation period, according to an activated state or a deactivated state of the display unit151.

For instance, in a deactivated state of the display unit151, the touch sensor may be activated with a preset period. In this instance, the preset period may be a time period more than 0. Further, in an activated state of the display unit151, the touch sensor may be always operated in an activated state. In this instance, an activation period of the touch sensor may be a time period of 0 or very close to 0.

Whether the touch sensor is in an activated state or a deactivated state may be determined based on a power consumption amount of the touch sensor. For instance, if a power consumption amount of the touch sensor is equal to or less than a preset value based on ‘0’, it may be determined that the touch sensor is in a deactivated state. Further, if a power consumption amount of the touch sensor exceeds the preset value based on ‘0’, it may be determined that the touch sensor is in an activated state.

If the display unit151is in an activated state (hereinafter, will be referred to as an active mode), the touch sensor may wait for input of taps onto the display unit151, while maintaining an activated state. Further, if the display unit151is in a deactivated state (hereinafter, will be referred to as a doze mode), the touch sensor may be activated at preset periods.

When the preset activation period of the touch sensor is shorter, a sensing speed with respect to taps applied onto the display unit151is higher. However, in this instance, a power consumption amount of the touch sensor may be increased. Further, when the preset activation period of the touch sensor is longer, a sensing speed with respect to taps applied onto the display unit151may be lower, while a power consumption amount of the touch sensor is decreased.

Thus, the preset period may be set so that a sensing speed with respect to taps applied onto the display unit151can be high enough not to be recognized by a user, and so that power consumption can be reduced. For instance, the preset period may be set so that the touch sensor in a deactivated state can be activated about 20 times (1 Hz) per second.

While the display unit151is in an activated state, the touch sensor may be also in an activated state. In an activated state, the touch sensor may have an activation period (T) of ‘0’ or a value very close to ‘0’. Alternatively, in an activated state, the touch sensor may have an activation period (T) much shorter than that set in a deactivated state of the display unit151, by several times. That is, the touch sensor may be activated with a different period, according to whether the display unit151is in an activated state or a deactivated state.

In a doze mode where the display unit151is in a deactivated state and the touch sensor is periodically activated, if a preset touch input (first and second touch inputs consecutively applied onto a predetermined region within a reference time, e.g., a ‘KNOCK-KNOCK’ touch input) is sensed by the touch sensor, the controller180can convert the doze mode into an activate mode where the display unit and the touch sensor are activated.

Moreover, the touch sensor may be driven at a different period according to a state of the display unit151. For instance, the touch sensor may execute a doze mode when the display unit151is in a closed state, and execute an active mode when the display unit151is converted from a closed state to an open state.

A signal output by the optical output module154may be implemented so the mobile terminal emits monochromatic light or light with a plurality of colors. The signal output may be terminated as the mobile terminal senses that a user has checked the generated event, for example.

The power supply unit190may include a connection port. The connection port may be configured as one example of the interface unit160to which an external charger for supplying power to recharge the battery is electrically connected. As another example, the power supply unit190may be configured to recharge the battery in a wireless manner without use of the connection port. In this example, the power supply unit190can receive power, transferred from an external wireless power transmitter, using at least one of an inductive coupling method which is based on magnetic induction or a magnetic resonance coupling method which is based on electromagnetic resonance. Various embodiments described herein may be implemented in a computer-readable medium, a machine-readable medium, or similar medium using, for example, software, hardware, or any combination thereof.

The cases101,102,103may be formed by injection-molding synthetic resin or may be formed of a metal, for example, stainless steel (STS), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), or the like. As an alternative to the example in which the plurality of cases form an inner space for accommodating components, the mobile terminal100may be configured such that one case forms the inner space. In this example, a mobile terminal100having a uni-body is formed so synthetic resin or metal extends from a side surface to a rear surface.

As shown inFIG. 1C, a flash124is shown adjacent to the second camera121b. When an image of a subject is captured with the camera121b, the flash124may illuminate the subject. As shown inFIG. 1C, the second audio output module152bcan be located on the terminal body. The second audio output module152bmay implement stereophonic sound functions in conjunction with the first audio output module152a, and may be also used for implementing a speaker phone mode for call communication.

A communication system which is operable with the variously described mobile terminal100will now be described in more detail. Such a communication system may be configured to utilize any of a variety of different air interfaces and/or physical layers. Examples of such air interfaces utilized by the communication system include Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) (including, Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced)), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), and the like.

By way of a non-limiting example only, further description will relate to a CDMA communication system, but such teachings apply equally to other system types including a CDMA wireless communication system as well as OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) wireless communication system. A CDMA wireless communication system generally includes one or more mobile terminals (MT or User Equipment, UE)100, one or more base stations (BSs, NodeB, or evolved NodeB), one or more base station controllers (BSCs), and a mobile switching center (MSC). The MSC is configured to interface with a conventional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and the BSCs. The BSCs are coupled to the base stations via backhaul lines. The backhaul lines may be configured in accordance with any of several known interfaces including, for example, E1/T1, ATM, IP, PPP, Frame Relay, HDSL, ADSL, or xDSL. Hence, the plurality of BSCs can be included in the CDMA wireless communication system.

Each base station may include one or more sectors, each sector having an omni-directional antenna or an antenna pointed in a particular direction radially away from the base station. Alternatively, each sector may include two or more different antennas. Each base station may be configured to support a plurality of frequency assignments, with each frequency assignment having a particular spectrum (e.g., 1.25 MHz, 5 MHz, etc.).

The intersection of sector and frequency assignment may be referred to as a CDMA channel. The base stations may also be referred to as Base Station Transceiver Subsystems (BTSs). In some cases, the term “base station” may be used to refer collectively to a BSC, and one or more base stations. The base stations may also be denoted as “cell sites.” Alternatively, individual sectors of a given base station may be referred to as cell sites.

A broadcasting transmitter (BT) transmits a broadcast signal to the mobile terminals100operating within the system. The broadcast receiving module111ofFIG. 1Ais typically configured inside the mobile terminal100to receive broadcast signals transmitted by the BT.

Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites for locating the position of the mobile terminal100, for example, may cooperate with the CDMA wireless communication system. Useful position information may be obtained with greater or fewer satellites than two satellites. It is to be appreciated that other types of position detection technology, (i.e., location technology that may be used in addition to or instead of GPS location technology) may alternatively be implemented. If desired, at least one of the GPS satellites may alternatively or additionally be configured to provide satellite DMB transmissions.

The location information module115is generally configured to detect, calculate, or otherwise identify a position of the mobile terminal. As an example, the location information module115may include a Global Position System (GPS) module, a Wi-Fi module, or both. If desired, the location information module115may alternatively or additionally function with any of the other modules of the wireless communication unit110to obtain data related to the position of the mobile terminal.

A typical GPS module115can measure an accurate time and distance from three or more satellites, and accurately calculate a current location of the mobile terminal according to trigonometry based on the measured time and distances. A method of acquiring distance and time information from three satellites and performing error correction with a single satellite may be used. In particular, the GPS module may acquire an accurate time together with three-dimensional speed information as well as the location of the latitude, longitude and altitude values from the location information received from the satellites.

Furthermore, the GPS module can acquire speed information in real time to calculate a current position. Sometimes, accuracy of a measured position may be compromised when the mobile terminal is located in a blind spot of satellite signals, such as being located in an indoor space. In order to minimize the effect of such blind spots, an alternative or supplemental location technique, such as Wi-Fi Positioning System (WPS), may be utilized.

The Wi-Fi positioning system (WPS) refers to a location determination technology based on a wireless local area network (WLAN) using Wi-Fi as a technology for tracking the location of the mobile terminal100. This technology typically includes the use of a Wi-Fi module in the mobile terminal100and a wireless access point for communicating with the Wi-Fi module.

The Wi-Fi positioning system may include a Wi-Fi location determination server, a mobile terminal, a wireless access point (AP) connected to the mobile terminal, and a database stored with wireless AP information.

The mobile terminal connected to the wireless AP may transmit a location information request message to the Wi-Fi location determination server. The Wi-Fi location determination server extracts the information of the wireless AP connected to the mobile terminal100, based on the location information request message (or signal) of the mobile terminal100. The information of the wireless AP may be transmitted to the Wi-Fi location determination server through the mobile terminal100, or may be transmitted to the Wi-Fi location determination server from the wireless AP.

The information of the wireless AP extracted based on the location information request message of the mobile terminal100may include one or more of media access control (MAC) address, service set identification (SSID), received signal strength indicator (RSSI), reference signal received Power (RSRP), reference signal received quality (RSRQ), channel information, privacy, network type, signal strength, noise strength, and the like.

The Wi-Fi location determination server may receive the information of the wireless AP connected to the mobile terminal100as described above, and may extract wireless AP information corresponding to the wireless AP connected to the mobile terminal from the pre-established database. The information of any wireless APs stored in the database may be information such as MAC address, SSID, RSSI, channel information, privacy, network type, latitude and longitude coordinate, building at which the wireless AP is located, floor number, detailed indoor location information (GPS coordinate available), AP owner's address, phone number, and the like. In order to remove wireless APs provided using a mobile AP or an illegal MAC address during a location determining process, the Wi-Fi location determination server may extract only a predetermined number of wireless AP information in order of high RSSI.

Then, the Wi-Fi location determination server may extract (analyze) location information of the mobile terminal100using at least one wireless AP information extracted from the database. A method for extracting (analyzing) location information of the mobile terminal100may include a Cell-ID method, a fingerprint method, a trigonometry method, a landmark method, and the like.

The Cell-ID method is used to determine a position of a wireless AP having the largest signal strength, among peripheral wireless AP information collected by a mobile terminal, as a position of the mobile terminal. The Cell-ID method is an implementation that is minimally complex, does not require additional costs, and location information can be rapidly acquired. However, in the Cell-ID method, the precision of positioning may fall below a desired threshold when the installation density of wireless APs is low.

The fingerprint method is used to collect signal strength information by selecting a reference position from a service area, and to track a position of a mobile terminal using the signal strength information transmitted from the mobile terminal based on the collected information. In order to use the fingerprint method, it is common for the characteristics of radio signals to be pre-stored in the form of a database.

The trigonometry method is used to calculate a position of a mobile terminal based on a distance between coordinates of at least three wireless APs and the mobile terminal. In order to measure the distance between the mobile terminal and the wireless APs, signal strength may be converted into distance information, Time of Arrival (ToA), Time Difference of Arrival (TDoA), Angle of Arrival (AoA), or the like may be taken for transmitted wireless signals.

The landmark method is used to measure a position of a mobile terminal using a known landmark transmitter. In addition to these position location methods, various algorithms may be used to extract (analyze) location information of a mobile terminal. Such extracted location information may be transmitted to the mobile terminal100through the Wi-Fi location determination server, thereby acquiring location information of the mobile terminal100.

The mobile terminal100can acquire location information by being connected to at least one wireless AP. The number of wireless APs required to acquire location information of the mobile terminal100may be variously changed according to a wireless communication environment within which the mobile terminal100is positioned.

As previously described with regard toFIG. 1A, the mobile terminal may be configured to include short-range communication techniques such as Bluetooth™, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus), and the like.

A typical NFC module provided at the mobile terminal supports short-range wireless communication, which is a non-contactable type of communication between mobile terminals and generally occurs within about 10 cm. The NFC module may operate in one of a card mode, a reader mode, or a P2P mode. The mobile terminal100may further include a security module for storing card information, in order to operate the NFC module in a card mode. The security module may be a physical medium such as Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC) (e.g., a Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) or Universal SIM (USIM)), a secure micro SD and a sticker, or a logical medium (e.g., embedded Secure Element (SE)) embedded in the mobile terminal. Single Wire Protocol (SWP)-based data exchange may be performed between the NFC module and the security module.

When the NFC module operates in a card mode, the mobile terminal may transmit card information on a general IC card to the outside. More specifically, if a mobile terminal having card information on a payment card (e. g, a credit card or a bus card) approaches a card reader, a short-range mobile payment may be executed. As another example, if a mobile terminal which stores card information on an entrance card approaches an entrance card reader, an entrance approval procedure may start. A card such as a credit card, a traffic card, or an entrance card may be included in the security module in the form of applet, and the security module may store card information on the card mounted therein. Card information for a payment card may include any of a card number, a remaining amount and usage history, and the like. Card information of an entrance card may include any of a user's name, a user's number (e.g., undergraduate number or staff number), an entrance history, and the like.

When the NFC module operates in a reader mode, the mobile terminal can read data from an external tag. The data received from the external tag by the mobile terminal may be coded into the NFC Data Exchange Format defined by the NFC Forum. The NFC Forum generally defines four record types. More specifically, the NFC Forum defines four Record Type Definitions (RTDs) such as smart poster, text, Uniform Resource Identifier (URI), and general control. If the data received from the external tag is a smart poster type, the controller may execute a browser (e.g., Internet browser). If the data received from the external tag is a text type, the controller may execute a text viewer. If the data received from the external tag is a URI type, the controller may execute a browser or originate a call. If the data received from the external tag is a general control type, the controller may execute a proper operation according to control content.

In some cases in which the NFC module operates in a P2P (Peer-to-Peer) mode, the mobile terminal can execute P2P communication with another mobile terminal. In this instance, Logical Link Control Protocol (LLCP) may be applied to the P2P communication. For P2P communication, connection may be generated between the mobile terminal and another mobile terminal. This connection may be categorized as a connectionless mode which ends after one packet is switched, and a connection-oriented mode in which packets are switched consecutively. For a typical P2P communication, data such as an electronic type name card, address information, a digital photo and a URL, a setup parameter for Bluetooth connection, Wi-Fi connection, etc. may be switched. The P2P mode can be effectively utilized in switching data of a small capacity, because an available distance for NFC communication is relatively short.

FIG. 2is a conceptual view illustrating an example of the mobile terminal viewed from the front according to the embodiment. As shown inFIG. 2, the mobile terminal according to the embodiment includes at least one display area independently activated (driven) in one display unit (or display panel)200, thereby forming a window200a. The display unit200has a different structure from the display unit151of which all areas are simultaneously activated/non-activated in terms that a partial area is independently activated/non-activated.

That is, the display unit200according to the embodiment has a structure in which one side of the display unit151shown inFIG. 1Bextends in a predetermined direction, e.g., an upper direction. InFIG. 2, only the example in which one side of the display unit extends in the upper direction has been disclosed for convenience of illustration. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and one side of the display unit may extend in a left, right, or lower direction.

In the display unit200, a first area201as a main area corresponds to the display unit151ofFIG. 1B, and a second area202corresponds to an extension area. The two areas201and202may be independently controlled by the controller180. The extension area202has different shape and size from the main area201. Thus, in the present disclosure, one of the two areas201and202is selectively activated if necessary, thereby reducing power consumption.

General image information may be displayed in the main area201, and the occurrence of an event or a status bar may be displayed in the extension area202. Also, additional information may be displayed in the extension area202according to the type of an application displayed in the main area201. Particularly, when the main area201is in a non-activated state (off state), status information may be displayed in the extension area202. When the main area201is in an activated state (on state), the status information is displayed at an upper portion of the main area201.

Thus, the main area201is non-activated when a user does not use the mobile terminal, and when the extension area202is controlled to be activated, the user can identify a status of the mobile terminal or a newly occurring event through the extension area202.

The extension area202, as shown in this figure, may be formed to have a lateral or longitudinal length smaller than or equal to that of the main area201. In the present disclosure, the case where the lateral length of the extension area202is smaller than that of the main area201will be described as an example. In this instance, the camera121, the proximity sensor141, and the illumination sensor142, which are located at the upper bezel of the display unit151inFIG. 1B, may be disposed at a left side of the extension area202as shown inFIG. 2.

When the lateral length of the extension area202is formed smaller than that of the main area201, at least one side of the extension area201may be formed as one of a straight line, an inclined surface, and a curved surface. InFIG. 3, the one side of the extension area202forms an inclined surface.

The display unit200as a display panel is generally divided into a liquid crystal panel and a backlight unit. The backlight unit uniformly provides light emitted from a light source in the front direction of the display unit200, and includes a light source, a light guide plate, a polarizing plate, a diffusion plate, and a reflection plate.

FIGS. 3A and 3Bare front views illustrating a light guide plate and light sources, which constitute the display unit200in the mobile terminal according to the embodiment. As shown inFIG. 3A, light sources227and228are disposed at sides of a light guide plate225to supply light to the sides of the light guide plate225, and the light guide plate225diffuses the light supplied from the light sources227and228by using total reflection in the light guide plate225. The total reflection refers to a phenomenon in which light is emitted from the light guide plate225only when the light is incident within a critical angle. When light incident at the critical angle or more through a side of the light guide plate225is totally reflected and diffused inside the light guide plate225and then curved at an angle within the critical angle, the light is emitted from the light guide plate225. InFIG. 3A, the main and auxiliary light sources227and228and the light guide plate225are illustrated.

Unlike the conventional art, the backlight unit of the present disclosure supplies light to the light guide plate225through light sources located in two directions. For example, a plurality of main light sources227arranged in parallel along a first side225amay uniformly supply light to the whole of the light guide plate225. The auxiliary light source228located at a second side225bperpendicular to the first side225aof the light guide plate225may supply light to a portion of the light guide plate225.

The main light source227and the auxiliary light source228are independently driven, so that it is possible to control only the auxiliary light source228to be turned on in a state in the main light source227is turned off.

FIGS. 4 and 5illustrate IC circuits for controlling the main light source227and the auxiliary light source228. In the IC circuit shown inFIG. 4, one backlight IC186controls the main light source227and the auxiliary light source228. In the IC circuit shown inFIG. 5, two backlight ICs186and186′ control the main light source227and the auxiliary light source228, respectively.

A voltage VBAT supplied from the power supply unit190has noise removed therefrom through a bypass booster185to be input to the backlight IC186. The backlight IC186controls light to be emitted from the light sources227and228. The backlight IC186detects an optimum backlight brightness for displaying an image, based on information of row data of the image, received from a drive IC215of the liquid crystal panel, thereby adjusting the brightness of each LED (content adaptive brightness control (CABC)).

In the present disclosure, when one backlight IC186is used, the auxiliary light source228may also be controlled by additionally using one LED channel186a(FIG. 4). Alternatively, the auxiliary light source228may be controlled by using a separate backlight IC186′ (FIG. 5).

The main light source227is provided in plurality adjacent to the first side225ato supply light to the whole of the light guide plate225. Further, the auxiliary light source228is provided in about one or two smaller than the number of the main light sources227to supply light to only a portion of the light guide plate225.

According to another embodiment, as shown inFIG. 3B, the display unit200of the present disclosure may include a first light guide plate2251for emitting light supplied from the main light source227toward the front of the display unit200and a second light guide plate2252for emitting light supplied from the auxiliary light source228toward the front of the display panel200.

When the light guide plate225is of an integrated type as shown inFIG. 3A, the main light source227may supply light to not only the first area201and but also the second area202. As a result, when the main light source227is turned on, it is unnecessary to turn on the auxiliary light source228, and one image can be displayed through the second area202and the first area201.

Meanwhile, when the light guide plate225is of a separate type as shown inFIG. 3B, light of the main light source227is supplied to only the first area201through the first light guide plate2251, and light of the auxiliary light source228is supplied to only the second area202through the second light guide plate2252. The auxiliary light source228is to be driven so as to display information in the second area202even in the state in which the main light source227is turned on. However, when information is displayed in only the second area202, light is not supplied to the first area201, and therefore, an image with high luminance may be provided by using a small number of light sources (LED lamps).

The main light source227and the auxiliary light source228may be integrated to be connected to a main board or individually connected to the main board. Therefore, in the present disclosure, that the main area201and the extension area202are independently controlled means that the controller180independently controls the main light source227and the auxiliary light source228.

Since the auxiliary light source228is located at the second side225b, the bezel at the second side225bmay increase. In the case of a display unit having a large size, the increase in the size of the bezel due to the auxiliary light source228may not be a serious problem as compared with the entire size of the display unit. However, in the case of a mobile terminal having a small size, the size of the bezel becomes a very important factor in determining the entire size of a product.

Thus, in the present disclosure, in order to prevent the increase in the size of the bezel, the second side225of the light guide plate225, at which the auxiliary light source228is located, may be formed recessed, thereby forming a dent224. The auxiliary light source228is located in the dent224, so that it is possible to prevent the bezel from increasing in a side direction.

Meanwhile, a liquid crystal panel210constituting the display unit200of the present disclosure has a size similar to that of the light guide plate225. That is, when the light guide plate225is provided with the dent224, a dent is formed at the same position of the liquid crystal panel.

In the present disclosure, the light guide plate225may be divided into a portion corresponding to the main area201and a portion corresponding to the extension area202. However, the liquid crystal panel is formed in a single body and controlled by a drive IC. The drive IC is connected to the main board through a flexible board to apply a voltage for each pixel according to a received image signal, thereby adjusting the arrangement of liquid crystals.

The liquid crystal panel is a device in which the arrangement of liquid crystals is changed by selectively applying a voltage for each pixel, so that different colors are output for the respective pixels, thereby displaying an image. The display unit200including the liquid crystal panel and the backlight unit, as shown inFIG. 2, is disposed at the front of the mobile terminal100, so that information can be output under control of the controller180of the mobile terminal100.

FIGS. 6 and 7are views illustrating waveforms of signals applied to the liquid crystal panel of the mobile terminal according to the embodiment. In the present disclosure, an operation mode may be defined according to a type in which the main area201and the extension area202are driven. A first mode is a mode in which the entire screen, i.e., both the main and extension areas201and202are activated, and a second mode is a mode in which only the extension area202is activated.

As shown inFIG. 6, in the first mode, the drive IC transmits a gate signal GATE, a multiplexer signal MUX, and a data signal DATA to the liquid crystal panel so as to activate both the main and extension areas201and202. The gate signal functions to determine a threshold voltage of a thin film transistor FET in each pixel. Thus, an image can be output by changing the arrangement of liquid crystals only when a data voltage equal to or greater than a voltage applied to a gate of the thin film transistor is applied.

A multiplexer is disposed between the drive IC and each transistor. A gate signal GATE and a data signal DATA are transmitted through the multiplexer, and the transmitted signals GATE and DTAT are sequentially redistributed to be supplied to each transistor. The gate signal includes a gate clock and a shift-resistor, and the shift-resistor performs an operation of receiving clock and transmitting the received clock to a next gate.

The data signal is a signal for driving the liquid crystal panel according to color information for each pixel, and a voltage greater than that of the gate signal is applied at a portion where the arrangement of the liquid crystals is to be changed, so that light supplied from the backlight unit can pass through the liquid crystal panel in the front direction of the display unit.

Meanwhile, as shown inFIG. 7, in second mode, the drive IC transmits, to the liquid crystal panel, only a gate signal GATE, a multiplexer signal MUX, and a data signal DATA, corresponding to the extension area202, so as to activate the extension area202. The gate signal GATE is to be applied for a predetermined period for the purpose of synchronization. However, since the data signal is not applied to the main area201, the magnitude of the gate signal may be set to be small. For example, a gate signal of ±9V may be used in the extension area202in which the arrangement of the liquid crystals is changed depending on a data signal, and a gate signal of ±5V may be used in the main area201.

The present disclosure can provide a plan for enabling contents displayed in the main area (screen) and the extension area (screen) of the display unit200to be linked with each other by selectively activating the main and extension areas in the non-activated state (off state) through a touch input.

The touch input is a touch where a predetermined area is continuously tapped within a reference time. In the present disclosure, the touch input is referred to as a knock code. The knock code is a dedicated code for activating the main area and the extension area.

A user can activate the main area and the extension area by applying a predetermined touch input (e.g., a short touch input) before a knock code is input. If a knock code is input, the controller180can turn on a liquid crystal panel (e.g., an LCD) of the area (main area or extension area) activated by the input knock code and simultaneously release screen lock by comparing the input knock code with a previously set knock code.

Hereinafter, embodiments related to a control method which can be implemented in the mobile terminal configured as described above will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent by those skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof.

In the following embodiments, the main area201will be referred to as a ‘first area,’ and the extension area202formed to extend at least one direction of the main area201will be referred to as a ‘second area.’

FIG. 8is a flowchart illustrating a control method of the mobile terminal according to the embodiment. Referring toFIG. 8, visual information corresponding to at least one replay file which was executed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to an external device is output to a second area202formed to extend in at least one direction of a first area201, based on that the mobile terminal is connected to the external device when the first area201and the second area202are non-activated (S810).

The non-activated state refers to when at least one portion of the display unit200is in an off state, and the external device refers to a device capable of transmitting/receiving signals to/from the wireless communication unit110of the mobile terminal100. As an embodiment, a short-range communication technology including Bluetooth™, Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra WideBand (UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wireless Universal Serial Bus (Wireless USB), and the like may be applied between the external device and the mobile terminal100.

Also, the external device may include mobile terminals such as a cellular phone, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a terminal for digital broadcast, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a Portable Multimedia Player (PMP), a navigation, a slate PC, a tablet PC, an ultrabook, and a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch, a smart glass, or a Head Mounted Display (HMD)).

As another embodiment, the external device may also include fixed terminals such as a digital TV, a desktop computer, and a digital signage. As still another embodiment, the external device may include an in-vehicle device capable of communicating with the mobile terminal100through Bluetooth™, etc. The in-vehicle device may be implemented as a navigation, an integrated image display device, a vehicle control device, etc.

The replay file refers to a file which can be replayed, such as a moving image file or a sound file. The visual information corresponding to a replay file may include an icon corresponding to the replay file, a text in which the name of the replay file is described, and the like.

As a specific embodiment, in step S810, if the mobile terminal100is connected to an in-vehicle device through Bluetooth™, etc., an icon corresponding to a music replay list including a plurality of music replay files may be output in the second area202which was in the non-activated state. The music replay list refers to a music replay list which was executed when the mobile terminal100was connected to the in-vehicle device before the current connection (this connection).

Subsequently, the execution of at least one replay file is controlled based on that a predetermined touch input is applied to the second area202(S820). As an embodiment, if a touch input is applied to the icon corresponding to the music replay list output in the second area202, a music replay file included in the music replay list can be replayed.

Hereinafter, specific embodiments will be described. As an embodiment, step S810may include outputting, in the second area202, an icon corresponding to a first replay list including at least one replay file which was executed when the mobile terminal100was previously connected to the external device, based on that the mobile terminal100is connected to the external device in the state in which the first area201and the second area202are non-activated.

As another embodiment, step S820may include executing at least one replay file included in the first replay list, based on a predetermined touch input being applied to the icon corresponding to the first replay list. As still another embodiment, step S820may include outputting, in the second area202, visual information corresponding to a currently executed replay file among the at least one replay file included in the first replay list.

As still another embodiment, step S820may include executing at least one replay file included in the first replay list by applying a volume value set when the mobile terminal100was previously connected to the external device. As still another embodiment, step S820may include outputting an icon corresponding to a second replay list including at least one replay file which was executed before the mobile terminal100is currently connected to the external device, based on a predetermined touch input being applied to the icon corresponding to the first replay list, and executing at least one replay file included in the second replay list, based on a predetermined touch input being applied to the icon corresponding to the second replay list.

As still another embodiment, step S820may include outputting an icon corresponding to a third replay list including at least one previously set replay file, based on a predetermined touch input being applied to the icon corresponding to the first replay list, and executing at least one replay file included in the third replay list, based on a predetermined touch input being applied to the icon corresponding to the third replay list.

As still another embodiment, step S810may include outputting, in the first area201, the first replay list including the at least one replay file which was executed when the mobile terminal100was previously connected to the external device, based on a predetermined touch input being applied to the icon corresponding to the a first replay file.

As still another embodiment, step S810and step S820may include deleting first replay file from the first replay list or executing the first replay file, based on that a predetermined touch input is applied to an icon corresponding to the first replay file including the first replay list. As still another embodiment, the control method may further include outputting, in the second area202, visual information corresponding to at least one replay file which was executed when the mobile terminal100was previously connected to a first external device different from the external device, based on that the mobile terminal100is connected to the first external device, and controlling the execution of the at least one replay file, based on a predetermined touch input is applied to the second area202.

Meanwhile, the controller180can output, in the second area202, the icon corresponding to the first replay list including at least one replay file which was executed when the mobile terminal100was previously connected to the external device, based on that the mobile terminal100is connected to the external device in the state in which the first area201and the second area202are non-activated.

Subsequently, the controller180can execute at least one replay file included in the first replay list, based on a predetermined touch input being applied to the icon corresponding to the first replay list. In this instance, the controller180can output, in the second area202, visual information corresponding to a currently executed replay file among the at least one replay file included in the first replay list. Also, the controller180can execute at least one replay file included in the first replay list by applying a volume value set when the mobile terminal100was previously connected to the external device.

FIG. 9is a conceptual view illustrating an embodiment in which a replay list executed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to a Bluetooth device of a vehicle is output. Referring toFIG. 9, when the mobile terminal is connected to the Bluetooth device of the vehicle when the first area201and the second area202are non-activated, visual information410,420, and430corresponding to a replay list including a plurality of music replay files which were replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device is output in the second area202.

As an embodiment, a vehicle icon410representing the connected Bluetooth device, a name420of the replay list, and a replay icon430for executing the replay list can be output in the second area202. Subsequently, if a user applies a touch input to the replay icon430, one of the plurality of music replay files included in the replay list can be replayed. Accordingly, the state of the second area202is switched to the activated state, and a name440of a music replay file being replayed, an icon450capable of controlling a replay status of the music replay file, and the like can be output in the second area202.

As an embodiment, if a touch input is applied to the replay icon430, a plurality of music replay files can be replayed in an order where they were replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device. In this instance, the plurality of music replay files can be replayed with a volume equal to that with which they were replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device.

As another embodiment, if a touch input is applied to the replay icon430, the plurality of music replay files replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device can be replayed in an arbitrary order.

Further, the controller180can output an icon corresponding to the second replay list including at least one replay file which was executed when the mobile terminal is currently connected to the external device, based on that a predetermined touch input to the icon corresponding to the first replay list, and execute at least one replay file included in the second replay list, based on a predetermined touch input being applied to the icon corresponding to the second replay list.

Next,FIG. 10is a conceptual view illustrating an embodiment in which a recent replay list is output. Referring toFIG. 10, as described inFIG. 9, when the mobile terminal is connected to the Bluetooth device of the vehicle when the first area201and the second area202are non-activated, visual information410,420, and430corresponding to a replay list including a plurality of music replay files which were replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device can be output in the second area202.

As an embodiment, a vehicle icon410representing the connected Bluetooth device, a name420of the replay list, and a replay icon430for executing the replay list can be output in the second area202. Subsequently, if the user applies, to the second area201, a flicking input500to the left side, visual information510,520, and530corresponding to a replay list including a plurality of music replay files which have been most recently replayed before the mobile terminal is connected to the Bluetooth device can be output in the second area202.

As an embodiment, an icon510representing a music replay list which has been most recently executed, a name of the recent replay list, and a replay icon530for executing the recent replay list can be output in the second area202. Subsequently, if the user applies a touch input to the replay icon530, one of the plurality of music replay files including the recent replay list can be replayed. Therefore, a name540of the music replay file being replayed, an icon550capable of controlling a replay status of the music replay file, and the like can be output in the second area202.

As an embodiment, if a touch input is applied to the replay icon530, a plurality of music replay files can be replayed in an order where they were sequentially replayed from a music replay file which has been most recently replayed. In this instance, the plurality of music replay files can be replayed with a volume equal to that with which the music replay file has been most recently replayed.

As another embodiment, if a touch input is applied to the replay icon530, a plurality of music replay files which have been most recently replayed can be replayed in an arbitrary order. As still another embodiment, when a music replay file was being replayed before the mobile terminal is connected to the Bluetooth device, the same music replay file may be subsequently replayed.

Specifically, if a touch input is applied to the replay icon530, music replay file A being replayed when the mobile terminal is connected to the Bluetooth device may be again replayed. In this instance, the music replay file A can be replayed with a volume equal to that with which the music replay file A was previously replayed. Subsequently, next music replay files in a replay list including the music replay file A can be replayed.

Meanwhile, the controller180can output an icon corresponding to the third replay list including at least one previously set replay file, based on a predetermined touch input being applied to the icon corresponding to the first replay list, and execute at least one replay file included in the third replay list, based on a predetermined touch input is applied to the icon corresponding to the third replay list.

FIG. 11is a conceptual view illustrating an embodiment in which a previously set replay list is output. Referring toFIG. 11, as described inFIG. 9, when the mobile terminal is connected to the Bluetooth device of the vehicle when the first area201and the second area202are non-activated, visual information410,420, and430corresponding to a replay list including a plurality of music replay files which were replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device can be output in the second area202.

As an embodiment, a vehicle icon410representing the connected Bluetooth device, a name420of the replay list, and a replay icon430for executing the replay list can be output in the second area202. Subsequently, if the user applies, to the second area202, a flicking input600to the right side, visual information610corresponding to a previously set first replay list can be output in the second area202. For example, a name610of a replay list to which the user frequently listened can be output in the second area202.

After that, if the user again applies, to the second area202, a flicking input612to the right side, visual information corresponding to a previously set second replay list can be output in the second area202. For example, a name620of a replay list to which the user frequently listened next to the first replay list can be output in the second area202.

As another embodiment, the replay lists610and620output according to the consecutive flicking inputs600and612may be previously set by the user. Alternatively, as described above, the replay lists can be output in an order where the user frequently listened to the replay lists or in an order where the user has recently listened to the replay lists. Specifically, the first replay list may be a replay list to which the user has most recently listened, and the second replay list may be a replay list to which the user listened prior to the first replay list.

If a touch input is applied to a replay icon630for executing the second replay list, one of a plurality of music replay file included in the second replay list can be replayed. Therefore, a name640of a music replay file being replayed, an icon650capable of controlling a replay status of the music replay file, and the like can be output in the second area202.

As an embodiment, if a touch input is applied to the replay icon630, a plurality of music replay files can be replayed in an order where they are set in the second replay list. That is, music replay file 2-1 set as a first piece of music in the second replay list can be replayed. As another embodiment, a plurality of music replay files included in the second replay list can be replayed in an order where they were sequentially replayed from a music replay file which has been most recently replayed or in an arbitrary order.

Meanwhile, the controller180can output the first replay list in the first area201, based on a predetermined touch input being applied to the icon corresponding to the first replay list. In this instance, the controller180can delete a first replay file from the first replay list or execute the first replay file, based on a predetermined touch input is applied to an icon corresponding to the first replay file included in the first replay list.

FIG. 12is a conceptual view illustrating an embodiment in which replay files included in a replay list are edited. Referring toFIG. 12, as described inFIG. 9, when the mobile terminal is connected to the Bluetooth device of the vehicle when the first area201and the second area202are non-activated, visual information410,420, and430corresponding to a replay list including a plurality of music replay files which were replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device can be output in the second area202.

As an embodiment, a vehicle icon410representing the connected Bluetooth device, a name420of the replay list, and a replay icon430for executing the replay list can be output in the second area202. Subsequently, if the user applies, to the second area202, a flicking input to the first area201, a list window710of a plurality of music replay files which were replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device may be spread in the first area201in the non-activated state. As an embodiment, names of a plurality of music replay files which were replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device can be output on the list window710.

If a flicking input720to the left side is applied to a second music replay file as one music replay file among the plurality of music replay files, the second music replay file may be deleted from the list window710. As another embodiment, if a touch input is applied to a replay icon730for replaying a third music replay file, the third music replay file can be replayed. Therefore, a name740of the third music replay file being replayed, an icon750capable of controlling a replay status of the third music replay file, and the like can be output in the second area202.

That is, a plurality of music replay files which were replayed from the third music replay file before the mobile terminal is connected to the Bluetooth device can be replayed. According to the embodiment ofFIG. 12, after the replay of the third music replay file is completed, a fourth music replay file can be replayed.

Meanwhile, the controller180can output visual information corresponding to at least one replay file which was executed when the mobile terminal is connected to a first external device, based on that the mobile terminal is connected to the first external device different from the external device, and control execution of the at least one replay file, based on that a predetermined touch input is applied to the second area202.

FIG. 13is a conceptual view illustrating an embodiment of a user interface output when the mobile terminal is connected to another external device. Referring toFIG. 13, when the mobile terminal is being connected to a smart headset, and the user is listening to music file A (music replay file A), a name810of the music file A being replayed can be output in the second area202.

Subsequently, the user can allow a screen for network connection setting to be output. As an embodiment, a screen820for Bluetooth connection setting can be output by a user input. In this instance, a list of registered devices which can be connected to the mobile terminal100through Bluetooth™ can be output on the screen820for Bluetooth connection setting. Specifically, the smart headset822being currently connected to the mobile terminal100, a Bluetooth device824of the vehicle, a smart watch826, and the like may be output.

Subsequently, if a touch input is applied to the Bluetooth device824of the vehicle, the mobile terminal100may be connected to the Bluetooth device. Also, a name830of a music file replay list including music files which were replayed when the mobile terminal100was previously connected to the Bluetooth device can be output in the second area202.

After that, if the user applies a touch input to an icon840corresponding to the execution of the replay list, one of a plurality of music files included in the replay list can be replayed. Therefore, a name850of a music file being currently replayed, an icon860capable of controlling a replay status of the music file, and the like can be output in the second area202.

As an embodiment, if a touch input is applied to the icon840, a plurality of music files can be replayed in an order where they were replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device. In this instance, the plurality of music files can be replayed with a volume equal to that with which they were replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device.

As another embodiment, if a touch input is applied to the icon840, the plurality of music files which were replayed when the mobile terminal was previously connected to the Bluetooth device may be in an arbitrary order.

FIG. 14is a conceptual view illustrating another embodiment of the user interface output when the mobile terminal is connected to another external device. Referring toFIG. 14, as described inFIG. 13, when the mobile terminal is being connected to a smart headset, and the user is listening to music file A (music replay file A), a name810of the music file A being replayed can be output in the second area202.

Subsequently, the user can allow a screen for network connection setting to be output. As an embodiment, a screen820for Bluetooth connection setting can be output by a user input. In this instance, a list of registered devices which can be connected to the mobile terminal100through Bluetooth™ can be output on the screen820for Bluetooth connection setting. Specifically, the smart headset822being currently connected to the mobile terminal100, a Bluetooth device824of the vehicle, a smart watch826, and the like may be output.

Subsequently, the user can apply, to the second area202, an input900for dragging the name810of the music file A being output to the Bluetooth device824of the vehicle. Accordingly, the mobile terminal100can be connected to the Bluetooth device.

When the mobile terminal100is connected to the Bluetooth device through the drag input900, a music replay list to which the user is listening through the smart headset may be continuously replayed. Specifically, the music file A may be continuously replayed without any pause or after the drag input900, and a music replay file including the music file A may be continuously replayed. Also, a vehicle icon910and the name810of the music file A being currently replayed can be output in the second area202

FIG. 15is a conceptual view illustrating an embodiment in which the replay of a music file is controlled by entering into a music control mode. Referring toFIG. 15, as described inFIG. 9, one of a plurality of music replay files included in a replay list can be replayed. Therefore, a name440of a first music replay file being replayed, an icon450capable of controlling a replay status of the first music replay file, and the like can be output in the second area202.

Subsequently, when any user input is not applied for a predetermined time, the state of the second area202may be again switched to the non-activated state. In this instance, the first music replay file and the replay list including the first music replay file may be continuously replayed. Also, the user can control the replay status of a music replay file by applying a predetermined touch input to the second area202in the non-activated state.

As an embodiment, when a long touch input1000or tapping input is applied to the second area202in the non-activation state, the mobile terminal may enter into a control mode for controlling the replay status of a music replay file. In this instance, a notification sound or vibration for notifying that the mobile terminal has entered into the music control mode may be output.

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal may enter into the music control mode by applying a long touch input or tapping input to the second area202even when the second area202is not in the non-activated state. As an embodiment, the mobile terminal may enter into the music control mode by applying a long touch input or tapping input to the second area202in which the name440of the music replay file being replayed is output.

As another embodiment, when a swipe input1010to the left side is applied to the second area202in the non-activated state, a second music replay file which is a next one of the first music replay file can be replayed. In this instance, a vibration feedback can be output together with the replay of the second music replay file.

As still another embodiment, when a tapping input1020is applied to the second area202in the non-activated state, the second music replay file may be temporarily stopped. In this state, when the tapping input1020is again applied, the second music replay file may be continuously replayed.

FIG. 16is a conceptual view illustrating an embodiment in which a music file being currently replayed is registered as a preferred music genre. Referring toFIG. 16, a touch input1100using two fingers is applied to the second area202in the non-activated state, the second music replay file being currently replayed may be registered as a preferred music genre.

FIG. 17is a conceptual view illustrating an embodiment in which a music file being currently replayed is deleted from a corresponding relay list. Referring toFIG. 17, a swipe input1200to the upside is applied to the second area202in the non-activated state, the second music replay file being currently replayed may be deleted from a corresponding replay list.

FIG. 18is a conceptual view illustrating an embodiment in which a seek bar of a music file being currently replayed is executed. Referring toFIG. 18, when a long touch input1300is applied to the second area202in the non-activated state, and a swipe input1310to the left or right side is then applied to the second area202, a seek bar of the second music replay file may be executed through an input applied to the seek bar. As an embodiment, when the swipe input1310to the left or right side is applied, fast winding or rewinding of the second music replay file may be executed, or a specific section may be detected.

FIG. 19is a conceptual view illustrating an embodiment in which the music control mode is released. Referring toFIG. 19, if a long touch input1400is applied to the second area202in the non-activated state, the music control mode may be released. As an embodiment, when any user input is not applied for a predetermined time, the music control mode may be released. In this instance, a notification sound or vibration for notifying that the music control mode has been released can be output together with the release of the music control mode.

The mobile terminal and the method for controlling the same according to the present disclosure have the following advantages. According to the present disclosure, an extension area which extends from a main area and has a different shape from the main area is provided, so that it is possible to extending the display area of information.

Also, different replay files can be executed according to kinds of external devices. In this instance, only the extension area is used, thereby reducing the power consumption of a battery. Further, a music file preferred by a user can be replayed when the mobile terminal is connected to a headset. In addition, a music file to which the user listens together with the user's family can be replayed when the mobile terminal is connected to a Bluetooth device of a vehicle.

In addition, the replay of a music file can be controlled by applying a touch input to the extension area. As a result, it is possible to solve a problem that when the user listens to a music file by using a control input unit, it was difficult to control the replay of the music file. In addition, it is possible to overcome the existing limitation that when the state of the display unit was switched in the non-activated state, it was difficult to recognize a gesture. Also, the user can control the replay of a music file without staring at a screen, thereby improving user's convenience.