Patent Description:
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a service through which connected devices exchange information collected through a device provided with a sensor, without user intervention, and process jobs. While various services using the IoT are being developed, many patch type devices and services of various standards and functions are randomly distributed at the present time without being standardized. Accordingly, conventional IoT has a number of problems.

For example, because a conventional patch type device does not have a separate input/output device, the patch type device is inconveniently set up using another device, e.g., a user performs several steps to set the purpose of the conventional patch type device through an input menu, which is often provided in the form of a mobile terminal.

In addition, because the role of the patch type device is limited and specialized, the user should buy a new device to add a new service. In addition, when the user stops using the service, the previously purchased device cannot be used anymore.

In addition, the conventional service has trouble varying for different users. For example, in the case of a related-art smart home solution, the same service and the same information are provided to all users, despite the fact that a parent's interest and a child's interest are different.

In addition, because a service is provided and managed for each device, it is difficult to maintain a frequently used device and manage power.

Document <CIT> relates to providing city services, such as parking. A mobile device according to this document can be configured to receive information from local sensor nodes, such as parking sensor nodes, in the vicinity of the mobile device. In a parking application, the mobile device located in a moving vehicle can be configured to locate available parking based upon the information received from the parking sensor nodes. In other embodiments, the mobile device can be utilized in a retail establishment in conjunction with a remote server to display eye-level image data taken at various locations throughout the retail establishment. The eye-level image data can include products displayed throughout the retail establishment and can be augmented with one or more indicators that indicate product placement locations associated with the products.

Document <CIT> relates to providing home security objectives. More particularly, this patent specification relates to a plurality of devices, including intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected devices, that communicate with each other and/or with a central server or a cloud-computing system to provide any of a variety of useful home security objectives.

From <CIT>, a cell phone location-based system is known hat determines the occupancy of a home and controls home energy consumption such that energy is saved when the home is unoccupied. Occupancy is determined according to cell phone locations, occupant behavior patterns, or burglar alarm status. When an occupant is determined to be returning to their unoccupied home, the heating or cooling apparatus is activated to return the temperature in the home to a comfortable level by the time the occupant arrives.

An aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a method and a hub apparatus for selecting a device to perform a service based on state information of the device, in response to a service request.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a method and a hub apparatus that provide a service using state information of a master device.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a method and a device that perform a service using operation information generated based on service identification information acquired through a tag.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a method is provided according to any of claims <NUM>-<NUM> for a hub apparatus to select a device.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a hub apparatus is provided according to claim <NUM>.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a method is provided according to any of claims <NUM>-<NUM> for a hub apparatus to control a device.

By forming the device group according to the service and acquiring the sensing information as described above, the hub apparatus <NUM> may provide various services to the user using a limited number of devices.

The above and/or other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these specific embodiments and should be construed as including modification, equivalent and/or alternative thereof.

In the following description, detailed descriptions of well-known functions or configurations will be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the subject matters of the present disclosure.

Herein, terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to distinguish various elements, but do not limit the corresponding elements. Singular forms are intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, the terms "comprise" and "include" indicate the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, parts, etc., but do not preclude the presence of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, parts, etc..

In addition, a "module" or "unit" may perform one or more functions or operations, and may be implemented by using hardware or software or a combination of hardware and software. In addition, a plurality of "modules" or a plurality of "units" may be integrated into one or more modules, except for a "module" or "unit" implemented by specific hardware, and may be implemented as one or more processors.

<FIG> illustrates a service providing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the service providing system includes a hub apparatus <NUM>, a user terminal <NUM>, and a plurality of devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n.

The service providing system may form a device group including one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n, through the hub apparatus <NUM>, and provide various services requested by a user.

For example, the hub apparatus <NUM>, which manages and controls the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n to perform a service as requested by the user, may be implemented by using a home gateway device. The hub apparatus <NUM> may also be implemented as a smart television (TV), a desktop personal computer (PC), a notebook PC, a home appliance (e.g., a refrigerator, an air conditioner, etc.), etc..

In addition, the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n may include a device that includes a sensor for acquiring sensing information for performing a specific service. In particular, the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n may include one or more sensors and are movable and attachable and detachable.

Herein, the "service" refers providing convenience to users by monitoring an environment and performing an operation of a specific device, and "performing the service" refers to providing an environment or multimedia as desired by the user by controlling, e.g., a home appliance. For example, the service may include an air conditioning service, a sleep service, a security service, a temperature management service, etc..

The hub apparatus <NUM> acquires service information through various sources. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may receive service information from an external server, from the user terminal <NUM>, or from service information pre-stored therein at the time of manufacturing.

The hub apparatus <NUM> receives a service request from the external user terminal <NUM>, from one of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n, or directly from a user.

Thereafter, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines one or more sensors for performing a service in response to the service request, and receives state information from one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n including one or more sensors from among the determined sensors. In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may select one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n to perform the service based on the state information.

The hub apparatus <NUM> may form a device group with the selected one or more devices. Herein, the "device group" refers to a group of devices for performing the service.

The hub apparatus <NUM> compares the service requested by the user and pre-stored service information, in response to the service request being received, and determines sensors for performing the service based on a result of the comparison. The hub apparatus <NUM> may determine one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n including one or more sensors from among the determined sensors.

In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may request state information from the determined one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n, and receive the state information from the one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n.

In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may select one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n including sensors for performing the service based on the received state information. In this case, the state information may include the location of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n, the battery information of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n, the use history of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n, etc. The state information may also include information received from the outside (weather information, etc.) or user information (user schedule information, user health information, user location information, etc.).

The state information may be transmitted from the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n in response to a request of the hub apparatus <NUM> or may be transmitted from the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n in response to an attachment location or mode of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n being changed. In addition, the state information may be periodically transmitted according to according to user settings or a service type.

In particular, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n as devices to be included in the device group using the state information and the number of devices forming the device group.

In addition, in response to there being a device including a previously used sensor from among the sensors for performing the service, the hub apparatus <NUM> may select the device including the previously used sensor as a device to be included in the device group.

In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may transmit a signal for requesting sensing information from one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n included in the device group. The signal for requesting the sensing information may include a sensing condition including a sensing period, a sensing information transmitting condition, etc., which may be set by the hub apparatus <NUM> for each service. In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may set the sensing condition based on the information received from the outside, the user information, etc..

The one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n may acquire sensing information for the service using the sensor, based on the sensing condition included in the information for requesting the sensing information, and transmit the acquired sensing information to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In this case, the one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n may activate a sensor for acquiring the sensing information requested by the hub apparatus <NUM> from among the plurality of sensors included in the one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n, and inactivate the other sensors.

In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may perform the service based on the acquired sensing information. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may control an external device or provide a notification or information to the user based on the acquired sensing information.

<FIG> illustrates a hub apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> may be embodied as illustrated in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the hub apparatus includes a communicator <NUM>, a storage <NUM>, an outputter <NUM>, a user command inputter <NUM>, and a controller <NUM>.

The communicator <NUM> may communicate with an external device. The communicator <NUM> may include various communication chips, such as a WiFi chip that communicates over a local area network (LAN), a Bluetooth chip that communicate using Bluetooth, a wireless communication chip, etc. When the WiFi chip or the Bluetooth chip is used, a variety of connection information such as a service set identifier (SSID), a session key, etc., may be exchanged, and communication may then be established using the connection information. Thereafter, a variety of information may be exchanged over the established communication link. The wireless communication chip may communicate according to various communication standards such as Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Zigbee, <NUM>rd Generation (<NUM>), <NUM>rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), Long Term Evolution (LTE), etc..

The communicator <NUM> may receive a service request from an external user terminal, e.g., the user terminal <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. The communicator <NUM> may receive information on a device and service information from the external user terminal with the service request.

The communicator <NUM> may transmit, to an external device, e.g., one or more of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n illustrated in <FIG>, a signal requesting sensing information. In addition, the communicator <NUM> may receive sensing information for performing the service from the external device.

The storage <NUM> stores a variety of information for providing the service to the user such as information on the external device, service information, user information, security information, etc..

The outputter <NUM> outputs a variety of information related to the service requested by the user. For example, the outputter <NUM> may be implemented as a display, a speaker, etc..

<FIG> illustrate a device group UI provided by a hub apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the outputter <NUM>, i.e., a television, displays a service UI indicating performance of the service currently requested by the user.

Referring to <FIG>, the outputter <NUM> also outputs a UI <NUM> including location information, service information, and battery information of a device.

Referring again to <FIG>, the user command inputter <NUM> may receive various user commands for controlling the hub apparatus. For example, the user command inputter <NUM> may receive a user command for requesting a service desired by the user. The user command inputter <NUM> may be implemented as a remote controller, a touch screen, a pointing device, a keyboard, a mouse, a voice recognition device, a motion recognition device, etc..

The controller <NUM> controls an overall operation of the hub apparatus. Accordingly, when a service request is received, the controller <NUM> may determine one or more sensors for performing the service in response to the service request, control the communicator <NUM> to receive state information from one or more devices including one or more sensors from among the determined sensors, and form a device group by selecting one or more devices, based on the state information.

The controller <NUM> may acquire a variety of information for performing the service prior to performing the service. For example, the controller <NUM> may acquire the information on the device, the service information, the user information, the security information, etc., from at least one of the external server and the user terminal.

In response to the service request being received from the outside, the controller <NUM> may determine the service to perform by comparing service identification information of the requested service and pre-stored service information, and determine one or more sensors for performing the determined service. For example, in response to a security service being requested, the controller <NUM> may determine a sensor (for example, an illuminance sensor, a motion sensor, etc.) for providing the security service based on the service request.

In addition, the controller <NUM> may determine one or more devices including one or more sensors from among the determined sensors. For example, the controller <NUM> may determine a first device and a second device, which include the illuminance sensor, and a third device, which includes the motion sensor.

In addition, the controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to receive state information from one or more devices. Herein, the state information may include at least one of the location of the device, the battery information of the device, and the use history of the device. The state information may be received according to a request of the hub apparatus. Alternatively, the state information may be automatically be transmitted to the hub apparatus at predetermined intervals and/or may be pre-stored in the hub apparatus.

The controller <NUM> may select one or more devices to perform the service based on the received state information. For example, the controller <NUM> may select a plurality of devices to be included in the device group using at least one of a number of devices forming the device group, a location of a device, battery information of a device, and use history of a device.

The controller <NUM> may determine one or more devices, such that the device group has a minimum number of devices for providing the service requested by the user. For example, when the controller <NUM> determines the sensors for providing the service requested by the user as a first sensor and a second sensor, the controller <NUM> may select a device including both the first sensor and the second sensor as a device to form the device group first. However, when there is not a single device including both the first sensor and the second sensor, the controller <NUM> may select a first device including the first sensor and a second device including the second sensor as devices to form the device group.

The controller <NUM> may select a device to form the device group, based on the location of the device. For example, the controller <NUM> may select a device to form the device group based on a distance between a person and the device, a distance between a thing and the device, a driving range of the device, etc., according to the purpose of the service.

In addition, the controller <NUM> may determine a device to form the device group based on the battery information of the device. That is, the controller <NUM> may preferentially select a device that can stably supplies power, e.g., with a higher battery level, to form the device group.

In addition, the controller <NUM> may select a device to form the device group based on the use history of the device. For example, when a user often uses a device, the battery of the used device discharges and the reliability of the device deteriorates. Therefore, in order to prevent only one device from continuously being used, the controller <NUM> may select a device for the device group, based on the use history of the device. That is, the controller <NUM> may exclude a device which has been used during a predetermined time from the device group, based on the use history of the device <NUM>.

In addition, when a device includes a previously used sensor for performing the service, the controller <NUM> may select the device including the previously used sensor as a device to form the device group first. That is, because the storage <NUM> stores the sensing information detected by the previously used sensor, the controller <NUM> may first select the device including the previously used sensor as a device for the device group, in order to use the sensing information of the previously used sensor. In addition, because the storage <NUM> pre-stores the information of the device including the previously used sensor, the controller <NUM> may select the device including the previously used sensor for the device group, based on the information of the previously used device.

The controller <NUM> may form the device group as described above through a virtual node allocator (VNA).

The controller <NUM> may store information on a formed device group in the storage <NUM>. Accordingly, when a subsequent request for the same service is received, the controller <NUM> does not have to form the device group again, but may request sensing information from one or more devices based on the device group previously stored in the storage <NUM>.

However, if too much time has passed since a device group was formed and stored in the storage <NUM>, the controller <NUM> may not request the sensing information using the pre-stored information on the device group and will re-form the device group again.

Similarly, in response to a request for a service being received after a device is newly added or removed (or after the location of the device is changed or a sensor is added/deleted), the controller <NUM> may not request the sensing information using the pre-stored information on the device group and may re-form the device group again.

In addition, a user may instruct the controller <NUM> not to request the sensing information using the pre-stored information, and to form a new device group.

After the device group is formed, the controller <NUM> may perform a pairing operation with the plurality of devices included in the device group, e.g., using the pre-stored information on the device, the user information, the security information, etc. However, the controller <NUM> may omit the pairing operation in response to the device included in the device group having been already paired.

The controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit a signal for requesting sensing information to one or more devices. The controller <NUM> may add a sensing condition in the signal for requesting the sensing information. For example, the sensing condition may include a sensing period, a sensing start time, a sensing end time, a sensing information transmitting condition, etc. The controller <NUM> may acquire a sensing condition, which is pre-designated for each service, and control the communicator <NUM> to transmit the request signal including the acquired sensing condition to the device.

The controller <NUM> may set the sensing condition based on information received from various external sources (for example, Internet, etc.) or user information. For example, in response to weather information being received from the outside and the requested service being a temperature management service, the controller <NUM> may set a sensing period, a sensing information transmitting condition, etc., for performing the temperature management service, based on the weather information received from the outside.

In addition, the controller <NUM> may set the sensing condition based on the user information, such as user schedule information, user health information, and user location information. For example, in response to determining that the user is abroad, based on the user schedule information, the controller <NUM> may set the sensing period to be relatively long.

In addition, in response to determining that the user has a cold, based on the user health information, the controller <NUM> may set a temperature condition for transmitting the sensing information to be relatively high.

In response to determining that the user is within a predetermined location in the house, based on the user location information, the controller <NUM> may set a current time as a sensing start time.

In response to a device transmitting the sensing information, the controller <NUM> may perform the service requested by the user based on the received sensing information. For example, in response to the user requesting the temperature management service, the controller <NUM> may identify the current temperature of the house based on a sensing value transmitted from the temperature sensors, and control an external device (e.g., a boiler, an air conditioner, etc.) to set the house temperature to temperature desired by the user.

In response to the user requesting a security service, the controller <NUM> may determine whether there is a person coming into the house based on a sensing value transmitted from a motion sensor, an illuminance sensor, etc. When there is a person coming into the house, the controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit an indication to the user.

The controller <NUM> may determine a device to perform the service instead of the hub apparatus <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit a control command to a device, such that the device, rather than the hub apparatus <NUM>, controls an external device.

The controller <NUM> may perform the service based on the information received from the outside and the user information, in addition to the sensing information transmitted from the device. For example, the controller <NUM> may control an external device to set the house temperature to the temperature set by the user, based on the weather information received from the outside. In addition, the controller <NUM> may perform the service based on the user schedule information, the user health information, the user location information, etc..

In addition, the controller <NUM> may control power on/off of the external device. Specifically, the controller <NUM> may turn on/off power of the external device based on the use state or the battery state of the external device. for example, when an external device is not being used or the battery level thereof is less than or equal to a predetermined value, the controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit a control signal to turn off the device.

<FIG> illustrates a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the user terminal <NUM> of <FIG> may be embodied as illustrated in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the user terminal, e.g., a smart phone, includes a communicator <NUM>, a storage <NUM>, a display <NUM>, a user command inputter <NUM>, a near field communication (NFC) unit <NUM>, and a controller <NUM>.

The communicator <NUM> may communicate with an external device. For example, the communicator <NUM> may communicate with a hub apparatus as illustrated in <FIG>, using the above-described communication module. That is, the communicator <NUM> may communicate with the hub apparatus using short-distance wireless communication such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc., or using long-distance wireless communication such as WiFi or a wireless LAN.

The communicator <NUM> may transmit information on the device, service information, user information, etc., to the hub apparatus.

The storage <NUM> stores various data and programs for providing a service desired by the user. For example, the storage <NUM> may store user information, device information, service information, security information, etc..

The display <NUM> displays image data, e.g., a service selection UI for the user to select a service and service performance information transmitted from the hub apparatus.

The user command inputter <NUM> may receive various user commands for controlling the user terminal. For example, the user command inputter <NUM> may receive a user command for selecting a service desired by the user.

The user command inputter <NUM> may be implemented using a touch screen, a mouse, a keyboard, a voice recognition device, etc..

The NFC unit <NUM> may communicate with a device using an NFC chip. Specifically, the NFC chip operates in an NFC method using a band of <NUM> from among various radio frequency identifier (RF-ID) frequency bands, such as <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>, etc..

In response to the user terminal being tagged with the device, the NFC unit <NUM> may acquire information on the device, from the device. In this example, tagging the user terminal with the device may refer to moving the user terminal to the device such that the user terminal is positioned within a predetermined distance (for example, distance where NFC communication is available) from the device. The information on the device may include identification information of the device (for example, an ID, MAC address information, etc.), sensor configuration information of the sensor included in the device, service detail information, etc..

In the above-described embodiment, the user terminal acquires information on a device through the NFC unit <NUM>. However, this is merely an example and the user terminal may acquire the information on the device using other types of wireless communication such as Bluetooth.

The controller <NUM> controls an overall operation of the user terminal. For example, in response to the user terminal being tagged with a device, the controller <NUM> may acquire the information on the device through the NFC unit <NUM>. In response to service identification information being received from the device, the controller <NUM> may request a service from the hub apparatus based on the service identification information. In addition, the controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to add the service identification information of the service requested by the user to a request signal, and transmit the signal.

In response to a service desired by the user being selected through the user command inputter <NUM>, the controller <NUM> may generate a service request signal based on ID information of the device, the user information, the service identification information, etc., which are pre-stored, and control the communicator <NUM> to transmit the generated service request signal to the hub apparatus.

In response to a service list being distributed by the hub apparatus, the controller <NUM> may control the display <NUM> to display a UI including the distributed service list. In response to one service being selected using the UI including the service list, the controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit a request signal including service identification information corresponding to the selected service to the hub apparatus.

In addition, the controller <NUM> may receive service performance information from the hub apparatus through the communicator <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may control the display <NUM> to display the performance information.

<FIG> illustrates a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, at least one of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n of <FIG> may be embodied as illustrated in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the device, e.g., a movable patch type device, includes a communicator <NUM>, a storage <NUM>, an attachment part <NUM>, an NFC unit <NUM>, a sensing unit <NUM>, and a controller <NUM>. For example, the device may be attachable to or detachable from a device, a thing, a wall, a ceiling, etc..

The communicator <NUM> may communicate with an external device, e.g., the hub apparatus, using the above-described communication module. For example, the communicator <NUM> may communicate with the hub apparatus using short-distance wireless communication such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc., or may communicate with the hub apparatus <NUM> using long-distance wireless communication such as WiFi or a wireless LAN.

The communicator <NUM> may receive a signal for requesting sensing information from the hub apparatus, and transmit a signal including sensing information, in response.

In addition, the communicator <NUM> may establish communication with another device and exchange a variety of information (e.g., sensing information, control information, etc.) with another device.

The storage <NUM> may store a variety of information and programs for measuring a sensing value to provide a service to the user. For example, the storage <NUM> may store information on a device and service information.

The attachment part <NUM> is configured to be attachable to (and possibly detachable from) an external device, a thing, a wall, a ceiling, etc. In addition, the attachment part <NUM> may be attached to a tag, as will be described below.

The NFC unit <NUM> may communicate with a user terminal using an NFC chip. For example, in response to a user terminal being tagged with a device, the NFC unit <NUM> may provide information on the device to the user terminal.

In addition, the NFC unit <NUM> may include a first NFC unit to communicate with the user terminal, and a second NFC unit to communicate with the tag. In this case, a shielding structure may be provided between the first NFC unit and the second NFC unit to prevent interference in communication therebetween.

The sensing unit <NUM> includes a plurality of sensors <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n that acquire various sensing values. The sensors <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n may detect a physical quantity of heat, light, temperature, pressure, sound, etc., or a change therein, or identify and measure the physical quantity and inform of the same using a predetermined signal. Accordingly, the sensors <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n may include various sensors, such as a temperature sensor to measure temperature, an illuminance sensor to measure an illuminance value, a motion sensor to measure a motion, a humidity sensor to measure humidity, a fine dust detection sensor to detect fine dust, an infrared (IR) sensor to exchange IR signals, etc..

The service performance unit <NUM> performs a service under control of the controller <NUM> or through a control command received from the hub apparatus. For example, the service performance unit <NUM> may directly open a window or close a refrigerator door using an actuator. In addition, the service performance unit <NUM> may be provided with an IR communication module to transmit a control command to an external device (e.g., a refrigerator, an air conditioner, etc.).

The controller <NUM> controls an overall operation of a device. For example, in response to receiving a signal requesting state information from the hub apparatus, the controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit the state information of a current device (location information, battery information, use history information, etc.).

In response to a signal for requesting sensing information being received from the hub apparatus, the controller <NUM> may determine a sensor to acquire sensing information based on information included in the request signal. For example, in response to a signal for requesting sensing information on temperature being received from the hub apparatus, the controller <NUM> may determine the temperature sensor as a sensor to measure the sensing information on the temperature.

The controller <NUM> may activate sensors corresponding to the sensing information requested by the hub apparatus, and deactivate other sensors. For example, when a device includes a temperature sensor and a motion sensor, and a request for temperature information is received from the hub apparatus, the controller <NUM> may activate the temperature sensor and deactivate the motion sensor. That is, the controller <NUM> may supply power to the temperature sensor, but not supply power to the motion sensor.

The controller <NUM> may measure a sensing value using a sensor that is determined based on a sensing condition included in the request signal. For example, the controller <NUM> may acquire sensing information based on a sensing period, a sensing start time, a sensing end time, a sensing information transmitting condition, etc., included in the request signal.

The controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit the detected sensing information to the hub apparatus. The controller <NUM> may transmit the sensing value detected by the sensor to the hub apparatus.

The controller <NUM> may also generate a sensing result based on the sensing value and control the communicator <NUM> to transmit the sensing result to the hub apparatus. For example, in response to a temperature value detected by the temperature sensor being <NUM> degrees, and a value set by the user being <NUM> degrees, the controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit the sensing value (i.e., <NUM> degrees) detected by the temperature sensor as is, or transmit sensing result information (i.e., information indicating that the temperature is lower than the temperature set by the user).

In addition, the controller <NUM> may control the service performance unit <NUM> to directly control an external device based on the sensing information. For example, the controller <NUM> may transmit a control command to operate an air conditioner to the air conditioner, and may close a refrigerator door to which the external device is attached using the actuator.

<FIG> illustrates a method for providing a service in a service providing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, in operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> registers service information from an external server. Specifically, the hub apparatus <NUM> acquires service information including identification information of services, sensors for performing the services, device information mapped onto the services, and service detail information. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may acquire service information as shown in Table <NUM> below.

The service identification information, the sensors for performing the service, the mapped device information, and the detailed information included in the service information, as described above, are merely an example. Other information may also or alternatively be included and at least one piece of the above-described information may be omitted.

In <FIG>, the service information is received from an external server. However, this is merely an example, and the service information may be received from other external devices (e.g., the user terminal <NUM>, etc.).

The hub apparatus <NUM> may acquire information on the device and user information addition to the service information, and store the information. In this case, the hub apparatus <NUM> may acquire the information on the device, the user information, etc., from the user terminal <NUM>.

The information on the device, the service information, and the user information may be implemented by using a json file format as shown in Table <NUM> below.

As shown in Table <NUM>, the user information may be mapped onto the service information, and the service information may be mapped onto the device information. That is, the user information, the service information, and the device information may form a hierarchical structure. In addition, the service information, the information on the device, and the user information, as described above, may be updated through an external server or the user terminal <NUM>.

The hub apparatus <NUM> may acquire security information (e.g., a password) to enhance communication security in communicating with a device. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may acquire security information from the user terminal <NUM> or the external server. In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may perform pairing with a device using the acquired security information.

In operation <NUM>, the user terminal <NUM> requests a service from the hub apparatus <NUM>. Specifically, the user terminal <NUM> displays a service list including a plurality of services, and in response to one of the displayed services being selected from the service list, the user terminal <NUM> transmits a request signal including service identification information corresponding to the selected service to the hub apparatus <NUM>. For example, in response a "smart cooling service" being selected by the user, the user terminal <NUM> may transmit a request signal including service identification information "service ID: <NUM>" corresponding to the smart cooling service to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

The hub apparatus <NUM> forms a device group including one or more devices for performing the requested service, i.e., the smart cooling service. Specifically, in operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> compares the service identification information included in the request signal and the pre-stored service information, and determines sensors and devices for the service. That is, in response to "service ID: <NUM>" being included in the request signal, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines that the service requested by the user is an air conditioning service using the pre-stored service information as shown in Table <NUM>. In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines sensors for the air conditioning service (e.g., a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a door opening detection sensor, an IR sensor, etc.). In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine devices that are mapped onto the air conditioning service.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> acquires state information for the determined sensors.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> selects one or more of the determined devices to form the device group, based on the state information of the device as described above.

The hub apparatus <NUM> may select one or more devices to be included in the device group using at least one of a number of devices forming the device group, a location of a device, battery information of a device, and a use history of a device.

After the device group is formed, in operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> requests sensing information from a plurality of devices <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> included in the device group. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> transmits a request signal including a sensing condition for acquiring sensing information to the plurality of devices <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>.

In response to the sensing information request signal, the plurality of devices <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> acquire sensing information. For example, the plurality of devices <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> may acquire the sensing information based on the sensing condition included in the sensing information request signal.

In operation <NUM>, the plurality of devices <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> provide the acquired sensing information to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs the service requested by the user, based on the acquired sensing information. For example, in response to the service requested by the user being the air conditioning service, the hub apparatus <NUM> may control an air conditioner or close a door, based on the received sensing information (e.g., temperature information, humidity information, door opening information, etc.).

In <FIG>, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs the service. However, this is merely an example and the device devices <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> may directly perform the service. For example, in response to the device <NUM>-<NUM> being provided with an actuator, the device devices <NUM>-<NUM> may open or close the door according to a result of sensing using the service performance unit <NUM>. In addition, the device <NUM>-<NUM> may directly transmit a control signal to the air conditioner.

<FIG> illustrates a distribution of devices in a service providing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, six devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> are provided in a house. Specifically, the first, fourth, and fifth devices <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> are provided in a living room, the second device <NUM>-<NUM> is provided in a veranda, the third device <NUM>-<NUM> is provided in a bedroom, and the sixth device <NUM>-<NUM> is provided in a bathroom. In addition, each of the devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> may include a plurality of sensors as illustrated in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates sensor structures of devices in a service providing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the first device <NUM>-<NUM> includes a hall sensor, an acceleration sensor, and a motion sensor, the second device <NUM>-<NUM> includes a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and an illuminance sensor, the third device <NUM>-<NUM> includes an IR sensor, an illuminance sensor, and a fine dust sensor, the fourth device <NUM>-<NUM> includes an IR sensor, the fifth device <NUM>-<NUM> includes a motion sensor and a temperature sensor, and the sixth sensor <NUM>-<NUM> includes a fine dust sensor, a temperature sensor, and an illuminance sensor.

<FIG> illustrates a method for providing an air conditioning service to a user using a service providing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, in operation <NUM>, the user terminal <NUM> requests the air conditioning (or cooling) service from the hub apparatus <NUM>. The request signal may include service identification information of the air conditioning service.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines sensors for the air conditioning service, in response to the request received from the user terminal <NUM>. The hub apparatus <NUM> compares the service identification information included in the request signal and pre-stored service information, and determines "a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an IR sensor, and a door opening detection sensor" as the sensors for the air conditioning service.

In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines devices including the temperature sensor, the humidity sensor, the IR sensor, and the door opening detection sensor.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> acquires state information of the devices.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines devices to form a device group from among the devices including the temperature sensor, the humidity sensor, the IR sensor, and the door opening detection sensor. Specifically, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine devices to form the device group using at least one of the number of devices forming the device group, and the acquired state information of the device (e.g., location of the device, battery information of the device, use history of the device, etc.).

In <FIG>, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines a first device <NUM>-<NUM> as a device provided with the door opening detection sensor, a second device <NUM>-<NUM> as a device provided with the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor, and a third device <NUM>-<NUM> as a device provided with the IR sensor. Accordingly, the hub apparatus <NUM> selects the first device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third device <NUM>-<NUM> to perform the air conditioning service, and forms the device group with the selected first to third devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> requests sensing information from the first device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third device <NUM>-<NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the first device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third device <NUM>-<NUM>, which form the device group to perform the air conditioning service, detect sensing information (e.g., temperature information, humidity information, door opening detection information, etc.) for performing the air conditioning service, and in operation <NUM>, deliver the detected sensing information to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs the air conditioning service, as requested by the user, based on the delivered sensing information, and in operation <NUM>, transmits a response to the service request to the user terminal <NUM>. Specifically, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines current temperature based on the sensed sensing information and compares the current temperature and temperature requested by the user. When the current temperature is higher than the temperature requested by the user, the hub apparatus <NUM> may close the door and operate the air conditioner. In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may deliver the current temperature information and the result of controlling to the user terminal <NUM>, and the user terminal <NUM> may display the current temperature information and the result of the controlling.

Referring to <FIG>, in operation <NUM>, the user terminal <NUM> requests the air conditioning service from the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines sensors for the service in response to the service request. Specifically, the hub apparatus <NUM> compares service identification information included in the request signal received from the user terminal <NUM> and pre-stored service information, and determines "a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an IR sensor, and a door opening detection sensor" as sensors for the air conditioning service.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> selects devices to be included in a device group based on whether a sensor used in an existing service is provided or not, and at least one of the number of devices forming the device group and state information of the device as described above. For example, when the third device <NUM>-<NUM> including the IR sensor is provided by an existing service, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine the first device <NUM>-<NUM> as a device provided with the door opening detection sensor, the second device <NUM>-<NUM> as a device provided with the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor, and the third device <NUM>-<NUM> as a device provided with the IR sensor. Accordingly, the hub apparatus <NUM> selects the first device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third device <NUM>-<NUM> to perform a temperature management service, and forms the device group with the selected first to third devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> requests the first device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third device <NUM>-<NUM> to form the device group. The request signal for forming the device group, which is transmitted by the hub apparatus <NUM>, may include a request for sensing information.

In operation <NUM>, the first device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third device <NUM>-<NUM>, which form the device group to perform the air conditioning service, detect sensing information to perform the air conditioning service, and in operation <NUM>, deliver the sensing information to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs the air conditioning service, as requested by the user, based on the delivered sensing information, and in operation <NUM>, transmits a response to the service request to the user terminal <NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines sensors for the service in response to the service request. That is, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines a door opening detection sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and an IR sensor as sensors for performing the air conditioning service.

In <FIG>, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines devices including the door opening detection sensor, the temperature sensor, the humidity sensor, and the IR sensor. The hub apparatus <NUM> may determine the devices based on whether there is pre-stored sensing information or not, in addition to at least one of the number of devices forming a device group and state information of the device as described above.

For example, in response to sensing information measured by the IR sensor being pre-stored, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine the first device <NUM>-<NUM> as a device provided with the door opening detection sensor and the second device <NUM>-<NUM> as a device provided with the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor to determine devices for performing the air conditioning service, but may not separately determine a device provided with the IR sensor. Accordingly, in operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> selects the first device <NUM>-<NUM> and the second device <NUM>-<NUM> to perform the temperature management service, and form the device group.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> requests the first device <NUM>-<NUM> and the second device <NUM>-<NUM> to form the device group. The request signal for forming the device group, which is transmitted by the hub apparatus <NUM>, may include a request for sensing information.

In operation <NUM>, the first device <NUM>-<NUM> and the second device <NUM>-<NUM> form the device group to perform the air conditioning service, and detect sensing information to perform the air conditioning service. In operation <NUM>, the first device <NUM>-<NUM> and the second device <NUM>-<NUM> deliver the sensing information to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs the air conditioning service, as requested by the user, based on the delivered sensing information and the pre-stored sensing information, and in operation <NUM>, transmits a response to the service request to the user terminal <NUM>.

<FIG> is a signal flow diagram illustrating a method for providing a service in a service providing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, in step S1110, the user terminal <NUM> registers user information, such as a user ID, a password, a user name, a user age, etc..

In step S1120, the user terminal <NUM> is tagged with the device <NUM> by user manipulation.

In response to the user terminal <NUM> being tagged with the device <NUM>, the user terminal <NUM> receives device information and service information in step S1130.

In step S1140, the user terminal <NUM> requests a service from the hub apparatus <NUM> according to a user command. For example, the user terminal <NUM> may transmit a service request including service identification information of the service requested by the user, and user information.

In response, the hub apparatus <NUM> authenticates the user based on the user information in step S1150.

In step S1160, the hub apparatus <NUM> forms a device group corresponding to the requested service. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine sensors for performing the requested service based on the service identification information, and may select one or more devices including the determined sensors, based on the state information of the device, in order to form the device group.

In step S1170, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs pairing with the device <NUM>. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may perform pairing with the device <NUM> using pre-stored information of the device (e.g., ID information of the device, MAC address information of the device, etc.). However, if the hub apparatus <NUM> and the device <NUM> are already paired with each other, step S1170 may be omitted.

In step S1180, the hub apparatus <NUM> requests sensing information from the device <NUM>. A signal for requesting the sensing information may include a sensing condition, such as a type of a sensor for detecting the sensing information, a sensing period, a sending start time, a sensing end time, a sensing information transmitting condition, etc..

*257In step S1190, the device <NUM> detects sensing information in response to the request, and transmits the detected sensing information to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In step S1195, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs the service using the sensing information received from the device <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, steps S1210 to S1270 are the same as steps S1110 to S1170, as described above.

In step S1275, the hub apparatus <NUM> distributes a service list related to the service requested by the user to the user terminal <NUM>. The service list may be generated using pre-stored service information. For example, in response to the service requested by the user being a temperature setting service, the service list may include services related to the service requested by the user, such as a main room temperature setting service, a living room setting service, a kid room temperature setting service, etc..

In step S1280, in response to one service being selected from the received service list, the user terminal <NUM> transmits information on the selected service (e.g., service identification information corresponding to the selected service) to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In step S1285, the hub apparatus <NUM> requests sensing information from the device <NUM>.

In step S1290, the device <NUM> detects sensing information in response to the request, and transmits the detected sensing information to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In step S1295, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs the service using the sensing information received from the device <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in step S1301, the user terminal <NUM> registers user information, and in step S1320, the user terminal <NUM> is tagged with the device <NUM> by user manipulation.

In response to the user terminal <NUM> being tagged with the device <NUM>, the user terminal <NUM> transmits device information, service information, and security information (e.g., a security key) in step S1330.

In step S1340, the user terminal <NUM> requests a service from the hub apparatus <NUM> according to a user command. In this case, the user terminal <NUM> may transmit a service request including user information, service identification information corresponding to the selected service, and security information.

In step S1350, the hub apparatus <NUM> authenticates the user based on the user information.

In step S1360, the hub apparatus <NUM> forms a device group corresponding to the requested service.

In step S1370, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs pairing with the device 300using the security information and information on the device, in order to increase security. However, if the hub apparatus <NUM> and the device <NUM> are already paired with each other, step S1370 may be omitted.

Step S1375 to S1395 are the same as steps S1275 to S1295, as described above.

<FIG> illustrates a service providing system including a master device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the service providing system includes a hub apparatus <NUM>, a user terminal <NUM>, a plurality of slave devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n, and a master device <NUM>. The hub apparatus <NUM> and the user terminal <NUM>, are described above with reference to in <FIG>, and the plurality of slave devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n are similarly implemented as the plurality of devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n; thus, a redundant explanation is omitted.

The master device <NUM>, which is a device for transmitting information on a service desired by the user to the hub apparatus <NUM>, may transmit the service desired by the user to the hub apparatus <NUM> according to state information (e.g., mode information or location information) of the master device <NUM>.

The slave devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n perform services according to a service type based on the state information of the master device <NUM>. In addition, the master device <NUM> may be a kind of device, but may be operated as a master device according to user's settings. For example, the master device <NUM> may include a separate hardware structure (a button, a dial, a switch, etc.) unlike a normal device.

The master device <NUM> may inform the hub apparatus <NUM> that it serves as the master device in a method of manipulating the hardware structure, in a method of tagging with the slave device <NUM>, or in a method of attaching to a specific location by the user. In addition, the master device <NUM> and the slave devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n may be the same type of device, but are not limited thereto. In addition, the master device <NUM> may be designated by user selection and may be designated according to capability thereof.

The service providing system of <FIG> may provide a different service to the user based on the state information (e.g., mode information or location information) of the master device <NUM>.

Specifically, the hub apparatus <NUM> receives the state information of the master device <NUM>. The state information refers to, but not limited to, a mode change, a location change, etc., of the master device <NUM>. The hub apparatus <NUM> defines a sensor for a service based on the state information of the master device <NUM>. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine a changed mode or location of the master device <NUM>, and determine a service desired by the user.

The state information of the master device <NUM> may be transmitted to the hub apparatus <NUM>, and the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine a service to perform according to the state information. For example, in response to the master device <NUM> being attached to an air conditioner of a living room, one or more devices related to a temperature management service operate as the slave device <NUM>. However, if the master device <NUM> is moved and attached to a front door when the user goes outside, attachment location information, which is one piece of the state information of the master device <NUM>, may be transmitted to the hub apparatus <NUM>. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may then determine a security service as a service to perform, based on the new received attachment location information, and re-designate a device including a door opening detection sensor and an IR sensor as the slave devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n by considering a sensor type for the security service and the state information.

According to locations or modes of the master device <NUM>, services, sensors, and slave devices are provided as shown in Table <NUM> below:.

When it is determined that the master device <NUM> is in a first mode based on operation information of the master device <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine one or more sensors to perform a first service corresponding to the first mode. However, when it is determined that the master device <NUM> is in a second mode based operation information of the master device <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine one or more sensors to perform a second service corresponding to the second mode.

Alternatively, in response determining that the master device <NUM> is on a first location through based on information of the master device <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine one or more sensors to perform a third service corresponding to the first location. In response to determining that the master device <NUM> is on a second location based on operation information of the master device <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine one or more sensors to perform a second service corresponding to the second location. The hub apparatus <NUM> may detect the location movement of the master device <NUM> using a beacon signal.

In addition, as described above, the hub apparatus <NUM> may designate one or more of the slave devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n to include one or more sensors to perform a service corresponding to the operation of the master device <NUM>. In this case, the one or more of the slave devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n designated to perform the service may include the master device <NUM>.

In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may perform the service based on sensing information received from one or more devices. In particular, the hub apparatus <NUM> may generate a control command, and transmit the control command to the master device <NUM> to perform the service.

Referring to <FIG>, in operation <NUM>, the user terminal <NUM> requests a service from the hub apparatus <NUM> according to a user command.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> receives state information of the master device <NUM>. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may receive information on whether the master device <NUM> is turned on or off, mode information of the master device <NUM>, location information of the master device <NUM>, etc.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines a sensor for the service, based on the state information of the master device <NUM>. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine the power state of the master device <NUM> and determine whether to perform the service. In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine a service desired by the user based on the mode information of the master device <NUM>. For example, in response to the mode set by the master device <NUM> being a security mode, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine that the service requested by the user is a security service. As another example, in response to the mode set by the master device <NUM> being an air cleaning mode, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine that the service requested by the user is an air cleaning service.

In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine the location information of the master device <NUM> and determine a service desired by the user. For example, in response to the master device <NUM> being located on an air conditioner, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine that the service desired by the user is an air conditioning service, and in response to the master device <NUM> being located on a window or a front gate, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine that the service desired by the user is a security service.

In response to the service desired by the user being determined based on the operation of the maser device <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> may identify a sensor for the determined service. For example, in response to the service desired by the user being the air conditioning service, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a door opening detection sensor, and an IR sensor as sensors for performing the air conditioning service. In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine a device including the temperature sensor, the humidity sensor, the door opening detection sensor, and the IR sensor. In response to the third slave device <NUM>-<NUM> including the IR sensor being provided by an existing service, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine the first slave device <NUM>-<NUM> as a slave device provided with the door opening detection sensor, the second slave device <NUM>-<NUM> as a slave device provided with the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor, and the third slave device <NUM>-<NUM> as a slave device provided with the IR sensor. Accordingly, in operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> may form a device group with the first slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, in order to perform the air conditioning service.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> requests the first slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third slave device <NUM>-<NUM> to form the device group. A request signal for forming the device group, which is transmitted by the hub apparatus <NUM>, may also include a request for sensing information.

In operation <NUM>, the first slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, which form the device group to perform the air conditioning service, detect sensing information for performing the air conditioning service, and in operation <NUM>, deliver the sensing information to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> perform the air conditioning service requested by the user based on the delivered sensing information, and in operation <NUM>, transmits a response to the service request to the user terminal <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> identifies state information of the master device <NUM>. In particular, the hub apparatus <NUM> may detect a mode change, a location change, etc., of the master device <NUM>. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may receive information on the mode change or location change from the master device <NUM>, and detect the mode change or location change of the master device <NUM>. However, this is merely an example, and the hub apparatus <NUM> may detect the location change of the master device <NUM> by itself.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines a sensor for a service based on the state information of the master device <NUM>. Specifically, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine a changed mode of the master device <NUM> and determine a service desired by the user. For example, in response to the mode of the master device <NUM> being changed from a security mode to an air conditioning mode, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine that the service requested by the user is an air conditioning service. In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine a location change of the master device <NUM> and determine a service desired by the user. For example, in response to the location of the master device <NUM> being changed to an air conditioner, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine that the service desired by the user is the air conditioning service.

In response to the service desired by the user being determined based on the operation of the maser device <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine a sensor for the determined service. For example, in response to the service desired by the user being the air conditioning service, the hub apparatus <NUM> may define a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a door opening detection sensor, and an IR sensor as sensors for performing the air conditioning service. In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine a device including the temperature sensor, the humidity sensor, the door opening detection sensor, and the IR sensor. In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> may form a device group with the first slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third slave device <NUM>-<NUM> to perform the air conditioning service.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> requests the first slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third slave device <NUM>-<NUM> to form the device group. A request signal for forming the device group, which is transmitted by the hub apparatus <NUM>, may include a request for sensing information.

In operation <NUM>, the first slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third slave device <NUM>-<NUM>, which form the device group to perform the air conditioning service, acquire sensing information for performing the air conditioning service, and in operation <NUM>, deliver the sensing information to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs a temperature management service, as requested by the user, based on the delivered sensing information, and in operation <NUM>, transmits a response to the service request to the user terminal <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the user can perform a service more easily by simply changing only the mode or location of the maser device <NUM>, without directly requesting the service through the user terminal <NUM>.

In the above-described embodiment, the hub apparatus <NUM> identifies the operation of the master device <NUM> and determines a service. However, this is merely an example.

The master device <NUM> may operate as the hub apparatus and may control the plurality of slave devices <NUM>-<NUM>,. , <NUM>-n without the hub apparatus <NUM>. That is, the master device <NUM> may transmit a service requested by the user to the plurality of slave devices <NUM>-<NUM>,. , <NUM>-n without the separate hub apparatus <NUM>, and perform the service requested by the user based on sensing information received from the plurality of slave devices <NUM>-<NUM>,. For example, in response to the master device <NUM> being attached to an entrance door, the master device <NUM> determines that the service requested by the user is a security service and requests sensing information from the plurality of slave device <NUM>-<NUM>,. , <NUM>-n related to the security service. In addition, the master device <NUM> may provide the security service based on the sensing information received from the plurality of slave devices <NUM>-<NUM>,.

In another embodiment, in response to the master device <NUM> being attached an air cleaner, the master device <NUM> may determine that the service requested by the user is an auto air cleaning service.

A device, such as the device <NUM> or the slave device <NUM>, may analyze the motion of an object and the state of a space based on a change in the intensity of a beacon signal, and control power on/off based on the result of the analyzing.

Specifically, the device may periodically or aperiodically generate a beacon signal, and detect the intensity of the reflected beacon signal. The device may then identify the motion of an object and the state of a space, based on the detected intensity of the beacon signal. In addition, the device may control power on/off based the motion of the object or the state of the space. For example, in response to determining that a person or an object does not move based on the intensity of the beacon signal, the device may turn off the power. However, in response to determining that a person or an object moves, the device may turn on the power. As described above, by turning on or off the power of the device, based on the motion of a person or an object, power consumption can be reduced.

Referring again to <FIG>, in response to the first device <NUM>-<NUM> being turned off while a device group is being formed, the hub apparatus <NUM> may remove the first device <NUM>-<NUM> from the device group, and may add another device which is currently turned on as an element of the device group.

<FIG> illustrates a method for providing a service in response to a tag being separately provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, a tag <NUM> refers to an object that is located on a specific device or thing, and includes service identification information. As illustrated in <FIG>, the tag <NUM> may have a physical form of a sticker type. However, the tag <NUM> may also be implemented by using a software configuration, rather than a separate physical form. For example, the tag <NUM> may be implemented by using a service list screen, a quick response (QR) code, a portable terminal that provides object recognition, and/or a device having low-power liquid crystal. The tag <NUM> may transmit the service identification information, e.g., through NFC, and provide the service identification information by broadcasting, e.g., through Bluetooth low energy (BLE). However, this should not be considered as limiting.

The tag <NUM> may be attached to the device <NUM>. For example, the tag <NUM> may be attached to the device <NUM> through an attachment part <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>.

When the tag <NUM> is attached to the device <NUM>, the device <NUM> may detect whether a current flows in a closed circuit according to implementation of a counterpart circuit, and detect whether the tag <NUM> is attached.

When the tag <NUM> being attached to the device <NUM> is detected, the device <NUM> may receive service identification information from the tag <NUM> and store the service identification information. The service identification information may be information related to a specific device or thing where the tag <NUM> is located, and information related to a service which may be performed by the specific device or thing.

In addition, the device <NUM> may acquire service identification information, device information, security information, etc. The device information may include sensor configuration information, and the sensor configuration information may include information on one or more sensors included in the device.

The device <NUM> may transmits the service identification information and the sensor configuration information to the hub apparatus <NUM>. In addition, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine a service based on the service identification information and the sensor configuration information, and provide operation information to the device <NUM> according to the determined service. Herein, the operation information refers to, but not limited to, information on whether a sensor included in the device <NUM> is activated or not, a sensing period, a sensing condition, etc..

In this example, examples of service information, sensor configuration information of the device and operation information are as shown in Table <NUM> below.

The tag <NUM> may have a physical form of a sticker type as illustrated in <FIG>. However, the tag <NUM> may be implemented by using a software configuration rather than a separate physical form. For example, the tag <NUM> may be implemented by using a service list screen, a QR code, a portable terminal that provides object recognition, or a device having a low-power liquid crystal.

<FIG> illustrates RF transmission between a terminal, a device, and a tag according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, as described above, the tag <NUM> may transmit service information, e.g., through an NFC chip, and provide the service information by broadcasting, e.g., through BLE. However, in response to the tag <NUM> transmitting service information using the NFC chip, the device <NUM> may have a shielding structure <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. Specifically, the device <NUM> may have the shielding structure <NUM> to prevent the NFC unit <NUM> of the user terminal <NUM> from being disturbed by the NFC chip (or module) of the tag <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>.

In addition, as shown in <FIG>, a device <NUM> includes a first antenna <NUM> to exchange information with the user terminal <NUM>, and a second antenna <NUM> to exchange information with the tag <NUM>. In addition, the device <NUM> includes an antenna controller <NUM> to selectively operate one of the first antenna <NUM> and the second antenna <NUM> according to a type of a device that the device <NUM> wishes to communicate with.

Accordingly, smooth communication can be performed between the user terminal <NUM> and the tag <NUM> through the device structures illustrated in <FIG>.

<FIG> is a flowchart to illustrating a method for providing a service of a hub apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the hub apparatus <NUM> receives a service request from an external device in step S2010. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may receive a service request from the user terminal <NUM>, or may directly receive a service request and may receive a service request through the master device <NUM>.

In step S2020, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines one or more sensors to perform a service in response to the service request. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may compare service identification information included in the request signal and pre-stored service information, and determine one or more sensors for performing the service.

In step S2030, the hub apparatus <NUM> receives state information from one or more devices including one or more sensors from among the determined sensors. The state information includes at least one of location information of the device, battery information of the device, and use history information of the device.

In step S2040, the hub apparatus <NUM> selects one or more devices based on the state information.

<FIG> illustrates a hub apparatus <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the hub apparatus includes a communicator <NUM> and a controller <NUM>.

The communicator <NUM> communicates with an external device. The communicator <NUM> may receive a service request from a user terminal, transmit a signal for requesting sensing information to a device, and receive the sensing information from the device.

The controller <NUM> controls an overall operation of the hub apparatus.

In response to a service request being received, the controller <NUM> may determine one or more sensors for performing a service in response to the service request, and designate one or more devices to include one or more sensors based on a predetermined condition. In addition, the controller <NUM> forms a device group including the designated one or more devices, and may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit a signal for requesting sensing information to one or more devices. In response to the sensing information being received from one or more devices, the controller <NUM> performs the service based on the sensing information.

The controller <NUM> compares service identification information included in the request signal and pre-stored service information, and determines one or more sensors for performing the service. In addition, the controller <NUM> controls the communicator <NUM> to receive state information from one or more devices including one or more sensors from among the determined sensors. In addition, the controller <NUM> may determine one or more devices including the sensors for performing the service based on the state information. The controller <NUM> may determine the one or more devices using at least one of the number of devices forming the device group, the location of the device, the battery information of the device, and the use history of the device.

In response to there being a device including a previously used sensor from among the sensors for performing the service, the controller <NUM> may determine the device including the previously used sensor as an element of the device group. In addition, the controller <NUM> forms the device group including the determined one or more devices.

The controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit a signal for requesting sensing information to each of the plurality of devices included in the device group.

In response to sensing information being received from the plurality of devices through the communicator <NUM>, the controller <NUM> may perform a service requested by the user based on the received sensing information.

As described above, a hub apparatus can provide various services to the user using a limited number of devices. In addition, the devices of the movable patch type can be managed and connected more easily.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a device by a hub apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the hub apparatus acquires state information from a first device in step S2210. For example, the state information of the first device may include at least one of mode information of the first device and location information of the first device. The first device may be a master device.

In step S2220, the hub apparatus determines a service to perform according to the state information. For example, in response to the mode of the first device being an air conditioning mode or the first device being attached to an air conditioner, the hub apparatus may determine an air conditioning service as a service to perform.

In step S2230, the hub apparatus determines one or more sensors related to the determined service. For example, in response to the air conditioning service being determined, the hub apparatus may determine a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor as sensors related to the determined service.

In step S2240, the hub apparatus selects one or more second devices including one or more sensors from among the determined sensors. For example, the hub apparatus may select a device including the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor as the second device. The second device may be a slave device.

In step S2250, the hub apparatus requests sensing information sensed by one or more sensors from one or more second devices. For example, the hub apparatus may request sensing information measured by the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor from the device.

In step S2260, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs the determined service based on the sensing information sensed by the request. For example, the hub apparatus may perform the air conditioning service based on temperature sensing information and humidity sensing information, which are received from the device including the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor.

As described above, because the service is performed based on the state information of the first device, the user can be provided with the service more intuitively and more easily.

<FIG> illustrates a hub apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the hub apparatus includes a communicator <NUM>, a beacon signal receiver <NUM>, and a controller <NUM>.

The communicator <NUM> communicates with an external device. For example, the communicator <NUM> may communicate with the user terminal <NUM> or device <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>.

The beacon signal receiver <NUM> receives a beacon signal discharged from the external device.

The controller <NUM> controls an overall operation of the hub apparatus. The controller <NUM> may determine a motion of an object located within a specific space, based on a change in the intensity of the beacon signal, and control power of the external device, based on the result of the determining.

The controller <NUM> may determine the motion of the object based on the intensity of the beacon signal. In response to there being a change in the intensity of the beacon signal, the controller <NUM> may determine that the object between the hub apparatus and the device external moves, and, in response to there not being a change in the intensity of the beacon signal, the controller <NUM> may determine that the object between the hub apparatus and the external device does not move.

When it is determined that the object located within the specific space moves, the controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit a control signal for turning on the power of the external device to the external device. However, when it is determined that the object located within the specific space does not move, the controller <NUM> may control the communicator <NUM> to transmit a control signal for turning off the power of the external device to the external device. That is, in response to there being no motion of the object, the power of the external device is turned off, and thus, power consumption can be reduced.

In addition, the controller <NUM> may form a device group based on the intensity of the beacon signal. For example, in response to there being no object between the hub apparatus and the external device or there being no motion of the object in forming a device group with a plurality of devices to perform a specific service, the controller <NUM> may exclude the external device from the device group. In addition, in response to a motion of the object between the hub apparatus and the external device being detected again through the beacon signal, the controller <NUM> may include the external device in the device group.

The controller <NUM> may determine a service based on the intensity of the beacon signal. For example, the controller <NUM> may determine whether there are many people between the hub apparatus and the external device based on the intensity of the beacon signal. That is, in response to the intensity of the beacon signal being less than or equal to a predetermined value, the controller <NUM> may determine that there are many people between the hub apparatus and the external device, because the beacon signal is disturbed by the many people.

The controller <NUM> may determine one or more sensors to perform the determined service and designate one or more devices to include one or more sensors based on a predetermined condition. For example, in response to determining that the intensity of the beacon signal is less than a predetermined value, the controller <NUM> may determine to perform an air management service, determine one or more sensors to perform the air management service, and designate one or more devices to include one or more sensors based on a predetermined condition and generate a device group.

<FIG> illustrates an embodiment for providing an air conditioning service to a user using a service providing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, in operation <NUM>, the user terminal <NUM> requests an air conditioning service from a hub apparatus <NUM>. A request signal may include service identification information of the air conditioning service.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines sensors for the service in response to the air conditioning service request. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may compare the service identification information included in the request signal received from the user terminal <NUM> and pre-stored service information, and determine "a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an IR sensor, a door opening detection sensor" as the sensors for the air conditioning service.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines devices to form a device group from among the devices including the temperature sensor, the humidity sensor, the IR sensor, and the door opening detection sensor.

As described above, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine devices to form the device group using at least one of the number of devices forming the device group, the location of the device, the battery information of the device, and the use history information of the device. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine a first device <NUM>-<NUM> as a device provided with the door opening detection sensor, a second device <NUM>-<NUM> as a device provided with the temperature sensor and the humidity sensor, and a third device <NUM>-<NUM> as a device provided with the IR sensor.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> detects the intensity of a beacon signal between the first to third devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> and the hub apparatus <NUM>. When it is determined that there is no change in the intensity of the beacon signal between the hub apparatus <NUM> and the third device <NUM>-<NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine that there is no motion of an object in a space where the third device <NUM>-<NUM> is located. Accordingly, the hub apparatus <NUM> may form the device group with the first device <NUM>-<NUM> and the second device <NUM>-<NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> requests sensing information from the first device <NUM>-<NUM> and the second device <NUM>-<NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the first device <NUM>-<NUM> and the second device <NUM>-<NUM>, which form the device group to perform an air conditioning service, detect sensing information (e.g., temperature information, humidity information, door opening detection information, etc.) for performing the air conditioning service, and in operation <NUM>, deliver the sensing information to the hub apparatus <NUM>.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> performs the air conditioning service requested by the user based on the delivered sensing information, and in operation <NUM>, transmits a response to the service request to the user terminal <NUM>. For example, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine the current temperature based on the received sensing information, and compare the current temperature and temperature requested by the user. When the current temperature is higher than the temperature requested by the user, the hub apparatus <NUM> may close a window and operate an air conditioner. The hub apparatus <NUM> may deliver the current temperature information and the result of the controlling to the user terminal <NUM>, and the user terminal <NUM> may display the current temperature information and the result of the controlling.

In operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> detects a change in the intensity of the beacon signal between the third device <NUM>-<NUM> and the hub apparatus <NUM>. That is, the hub apparatus <NUM> may determine that there is a person in the space where the third device <NUM>-<NUM> is located. As a result, in operation <NUM>, the hub apparatus <NUM> may add the third device <NUM>-<NUM> to the device group, such that the first device <NUM>-<NUM>, the second device <NUM>-<NUM>, and the third device <NUM>-<NUM> may form a new device group.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling of a hub apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the hub apparatus receives a beacon signal from a device in step S2510.

In steps S2520, the hub apparatus determines a motion of an object located in a specific space based on a change in the intensity of the beacon signal. For example, in response to the intensity of the beacon signal being changed, the hub apparatus may determine that there is a motion of the object located in the specific space (i.e., the space where the device is located). However, in response to the intensity of the beacon signal not being changed, the hub apparatus may determine that there is no motion of the object located in the specific space.

In step S2530, the hub apparatus controls power of the device based on the result of the determining. For example, in response to there being a motion of the object in the specific space, the hub apparatus may turn on the power of the device, or in response to there being no motion of the object in the specific space, the hub apparatus may turn off the power of the device.

By turning on/off the power of the device based on the change in the intensity of the beacon signal as described above, unnecessary power consumption of the device can be prevented.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the device acquires service identification information from a tag in step S2610.

In step S2620, the device transmits the service identification information and sensor configuration information of the device to a hub apparatus.

In step S2630, the device receives, from the hub apparatus, operation information related to one or more sensors selected in response to the service identification information and the sensor configuration information.

In step S2640, the device operates one or more sensors based on the received operation information.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing a service in a service providing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, a user terminal is tagged with a device in step S2705.

In step S2710, the user terminal extracts information, such sensor configuration information, etc., of the device, from the device.

In step S2715, the extracted device information is registered at a device management module, which may be provided in the hub apparatus or in a separate external server.

In step S2720, the user terminal determines whether there is service identification information. That is, the user terminal determines whether service identification information is received from the tagged device.

When there is no service identification information in step S2720, the user terminal searches available services in step S2725, and selects a service according to a user command in step S2730. In steps S2735, the hub apparatus <NUM> determines a service based on the service selected by the user.

However, when there is service identification information in step S2730, the hub apparatus determines a service based on the service identification information received from the user terminal in step S2735.

In step S2740, the hub apparatus determines sensors for performing the determined service.

In step S2745, the hub apparatus determines devices including the sensors.

In step S2750, the hub apparatus acquires state information of the device (e.g., location information, battery information, use history information, etc.) from the determined device.

In step S2755, the hub apparatus selects a best device based on the state information.

In step S2760, the hub apparatus generates device operation information (e.g., information on a sensor to be activated, a sensing period, a sensing condition, etc.) to be transmitted to the selected device.

In step S2765, the device acquires sensing information according to the operation information.

In step S2770, the hub apparatus receives the acquired sensing information from the device and performs the service.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating a method for managing a device in a service providing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the device is connected to a hub apparatus in step S2810.

In step S2820, device information is registered at the hub apparatus. For example, the device information may include device ID information, sensor configuration information, state information, etc..

In step S2830, the device collects the state information. For example, the device may acquire the state information at predetermined intervals, and in response to the state of the device being changed, acquire the state information.

In step S2840, the device delivers the state information to the hub apparatus. For example, the device may transmit the state information at predetermined intervals, or may transmit the state information every time the state information is acquired.

In step S2850, the hub apparatus updates the device information stored in the hub apparatus. That is, the hub apparatus may update changed state information of the device information.

Referring to <FIG>, the hub apparatus <NUM> includes a service manager module and a virtual node mapping engine. The service manager module manages a service requested by the user, and the virtual node mapping engine generates a device group to perform the service requested by the user.

The user terminals <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n each include a service subscription module that selects a service that the user wishes to perform. The user terminals <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n may directly communicate with the hub apparatus <NUM> or may communicate with the hub apparatus <NUM> at a remote distance through a service server <NUM> and Internet.

The devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-n each include a node control module that controls a sensor according to operation information received from the hub apparatus <NUM> and performs a service.

According to the above-described embodiments, a user can be provided with various services through the limited number of devices (service nodes).

Although single hub apparatus has been described in each of the above-described embodiments, this is merely an example, and a plurality of local hub apparatuses may be provided.

For example, a service providing system may include a plurality of local hub apparatuses located in a plurality of areas in a house. The plurality of local hub apparatuses may be implemented by using home appliances located in the plurality of areas.

<FIG> illustrates a service providing system including a plurality of local hub devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, a porch light may serve as a first local hub apparatus <NUM>-<NUM> in a front door area, a washing machine may serve as a second local hub apparatus <NUM>-<NUM> in a laundry room area, a bedroom TV may serve as a third local hub apparatus <NUM>-<NUM> in a bedroom area, a living room TV may serve as a fourth local hub apparatus <NUM>-<NUM> in a living room area, and a refrigerator may serve as a fifth local hub apparatus <NUM>-<NUM> in a kitchen area.

The first to the fifth local hub apparatuses <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> may manage sensors located in corresponding areas, and receive sensing values. For example, the third local hub apparatus <NUM>-<NUM> located in the bedroom area may manage sensors (e.g., an illumination sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, etc.) located in the bedroom area, and receive sensing values from the sensors located in the bedroom area and perform a service regarding the bedroom area.

The plurality of local hub apparatuses <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> may be connected with one another for communication, and exchange data and control commands with one another. Alternatively, a main hub apparatus (e.g., a server) for managing the plurality of local hub apparatuses <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> may be separately provided, such that the plurality of local hub apparatuses <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> may transmit area information of each of the sensors and sensing values to the main hub apparatus, and the main hub apparatus may perform an overall service in the house based on the area information and the sensing values received from the plurality of local hub devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>.

In addition, the plurality of local hub devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> may transmit the area information on the sensors located in corresponding areas of the local hub apparatus <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> to a service request device (e.g., a smart phone).

Although the plurality of local hub devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> are generally fixed type, this is merely an example, and the plurality of local hub devices <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> may be implemented by using movable devices. For example, the movable devices may be implemented by using a mobile device that is moved by the user, such as a notebook PC, a tablet PC, etc., or a device that moves by itself, such as a robot cleaner, an electronic pet, etc..

When the local hub apparatus is implemented by using a mobile device which is moved by the user, the mobile device may be implemented as a local hub apparatus of an area where the mobile device is located.

<FIG> illustrate mobile devices implemented as local hub apparatuses according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, a mobile device <NUM> being located in the living room may be implemented as a local hub apparatus to manage sensors <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> located in the living room area and receive sensing values from the sensors <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> located in the living room area.

In response to the mobile device <NUM> being moved to the bedroom, as illustrated in <FIG>, the mobile device <NUM> may be implemented as a local hub apparatus to manage sensors <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> located in the bed room area and receive sensing values from the sensors <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> located in the bed room area.

In response to the local hub apparatus being implemented by using a device that can move by itself (e.g., a robot cleaner), and in response to a sensor for performing a service requested by the user deviating from a short-distance communication area, the device may move to an area where the sensor is located and receive a sensing value. For example, in response to a robot cleaner being located at the front door and the sensor being located in the bed room, deviating from the short-distance communication area, the robot cleaner moves near to the bedroom area and acquires sensing values.

When a sensor for performing a service requested by the user is located within the short-distance communication area, but a device for transmitting a control command to perform the service is not located in the short-distance communication area, the device may receive a sensing value from the sensor first, and move to the device for transmitting the control command and transmit the control command generated based on the sensing value. For example, in response to a sensor being located in the bed room and an air conditioner for transmitting a control command being located in the living room, the robot cleaner acquires a sensing value from the sensor located in the bed room area, and moves to the living room and transmit the control command to the air conditioner.

In addition, the plurality of local hub apparatuses may be implemented in the form of a power hub, which is provided with a power transmission unit that transmits ambient charging, and transmits power to the sensors. The plurality of local hub apparatuses may control the power transmission unit based on a power state of sensors and whether there a user exists or not.

According to the above-described embodiments, a device provided with the sensors may be implemented in the form of a patch that is attachable and detachable. Therefore, when an area where the device provided with the sensors is located is changed, a hub apparatus may control the sensors provided in the device according to the location of the device. For example, the hub apparatus may determine whether to activate the sensors provided in the device according to the location of the device.

For example, in response to the device being moved from a window to the kitchen and attached therein, the hub apparatus may inactivate an acceleration sensor for detecting door opening, and activate a temperature sensor for detecting temperature.

In addition, the hub apparatus may determine sensing periods of the sensors provided in the device according to the location of the device. For example, in response to the device being moved from the bedroom to the laundry room and attached therein, the hub apparatus may set the sensing period of the temperature sensor provided in the device to be relatively long.

As described above, by determining whether to activate the sensors and the sensing period according to the location of the device, the system can be operated with relatively low power.

A service providing method of a hub apparatus according to the various embodiments described above may be implemented as a program and provided to a display device or an input device. In particular, the program including the control method of the display device may be stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium.

The non-transitory computer readable medium is a medium that stores data semi-permanently rather than storing data for a very short time, such as a register, a cache, a memory or etc., and is readable by an apparatus. Specifically, the above-described various applications or programs may be stored in the non-transitory computer readable medium such as a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a hard disk, a Blu-ray disk, a universal serial bus (USB), a memory card, a ROM or etc., and may be provided.

Claim 1:
A method for controlling a hub apparatus (<NUM>), the method comprising:
receiving a service request (S2010);
determining at least one sensor acquiring sensing information for the received service request (S2020);
receiving state information of a plurality of devices from the plurality of devices including the determined sensor (S2030);
selecting at least one device (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, ... <NUM>-n) from among the plurality of devices (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, ... <NUM>-n) based on the received state information of the plurality of devices,
grouping the at least one device to a group for performing a service corresponding to the service request; and
based on the receiving the sensing information from the at least one device in the group, performing the service corresponding to the service request;
wherein the state information of the plurality of devices (<NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, ... <NUM>-n) comprises at least one of location information, battery information, and use history information, of the plurality of devices.