JP6245958B2 - IMAGING DEVICE, EXTERNAL DEVICE, IMAGING SYSTEM, IMAGING DEVICE CONTROL METHOD, EXTERNAL DEVICE CONTROL METHOD, IMAGING SYSTEM CONTROL METHOD, AND PROGRAM - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus, an external apparatus, an imaging system, an imaging apparatus control method, an external apparatus control method, an imaging system control method, and a program. In particular, it is suitable for use in a technique for inserting / removing an infrared blocking filter into / from the optical path of the imaging optical system.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known an imaging apparatus configured to be able to switch between visible light imaging and infrared imaging by inserting and removing an infrared cutoff filter from an optical path of an imaging optical system. Here, visible light imaging means that the imaging device captures an image of a subject in a state where an infrared cut filter is inserted in the optical path of the imaging optical system. Infrared imaging means that the imaging device captures an image of the subject in a state where the infrared blocking filter is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system.

  Patent Document 1 discloses an imaging apparatus that controls insertion / removal of an infrared blocking filter with respect to an optical path of an imaging optical system by determining the brightness of the outside world.

  In addition, with the rapid spread of network technology, there is an increasing need for users who want to control an imaging device from an external device via a network. This is no exception to the insertion / removal control of the infrared blocking filter with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system.

JP-A-7-107355

  However, in the above-described Patent Document 1, it has not been assumed that the setting related to the insertion / removal control of the infrared blocking filter with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system is performed from the external device via the network. Further, in the future, it may be assumed that the user wants the brightness of the subject of the imaging apparatus, the delay time related to the insertion / removal of the infrared cutoff filter with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system, and the like as such settings.

  However, such settings are not always appropriately performed from an external device. For example, if such a setting is not properly performed, an infrared cut-off filter is inserted in the optical path of the imaging optical system even though the brightness of the subject of the imaging device is low. There is a possibility of black crushing. In addition, although the luminance is high, the infrared blocking filter may be removed from the optical path, and the subject in the captured image may be blown out.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems. That is, it is a setting relating to the insertion / removal of the infrared cutoff filter with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system, and this insertion / removal can be appropriately controlled based on the setting made by the external device. Moreover, the setting regarding the insertion / removal of the infrared cut-off filter with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system can be appropriately set by an external device.

  In order to achieve the above object, an imaging apparatus of the present invention is an imaging apparatus that communicates with an external device via a network, and that captures an imaging optical system and an image of a subject formed by the imaging optical system. An adjustment command that can describe a luminance value related to the brightness of the subject. And an infrared ray cutoff filter that blocks infrared rays; an insertion / removal means that inserts and removes the infrared cutoff filter in an optical path of the imaging optical system; Then, an adjustment command in which the brightness value can be described separately for each of the case where the infrared cutoff filter is inserted into the optical path and the case where the infrared cutoff filter is removed from the optical path is sent from the external device via the network. By converting the luminance value described separately in the receiving means received by the receiver and the adjustment command received by the receiving means. Conversion means for making a value obtained by converting the luminance value described in the case of insertion in the adjustment command larger than a value obtained by converting the luminance value described in the case of extracting in the adjustment command; and the conversion means And a control means for controlling the insertion / removal means based on the value converted in step (1).

  According to the present invention, it is a setting related to the insertion / removal of the infrared ray blocking filter with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system, and this insertion / removal can be appropriately controlled based on the setting made by the external device. Moreover, the setting regarding the insertion / removal of the infrared cut-off filter with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system can be appropriately set by an external device.

It is an example of the system configuration | structure of the monitoring system based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the imaging device based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the client apparatus based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a time transition diagram of the brightness | luminance for showing the operation example of the imaging device based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the command sequence of an imaging device and a client apparatus based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the GetOptionsResponse transmission process based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of GetOptionsResponse based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of SetImagingSettings based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the SetImagingSettings reception process based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the insertion / removal control of the infrared cutoff filter by the imaging device based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the SetImagingSettings reception process based on Example 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment setting screen based on Example 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating a part of SetImagingSettings transmission process based on Example 3 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating a part of SetImagingSettings transmission process based on Example 3 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the conversion table which matched the value of BoundaryOffset and the luminance value of a to-be-photographed object based on Example 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the SetImagingSettings reception process based on Example 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the SetImagingSettings reception process based on Example 5 of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The configurations shown in the following embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the illustrated configurations.

  In addition, the commands in the following embodiments are determined based on, for example, the Open Network Video Interface Forum (hereinafter sometimes referred to as ONVIF) standard. In the ONVIF standard, for example, this command is defined by using the XML Schema Definition language (hereinafter sometimes referred to as XSD).

Example 1
The network configuration according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. More specifically, FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of the monitoring system according to the present embodiment.

  In the monitoring system according to the present embodiment, the imaging apparatus 1000 and the client apparatus 2000 are connected via the IP network 1500 (in a state where they can communicate with each other). Accordingly, the imaging apparatus 1000 can distribute the captured image to the client apparatus 2000 via the IP network 1500.

  Note that the imaging apparatus 1000 in this embodiment is a monitoring camera that captures a moving image, and more specifically, a network camera used for monitoring. The client device 2000 in this embodiment is an example of an external device such as a PC. Further, the monitoring system in the present embodiment corresponds to an imaging system.

  The IP network 1500 is assumed to be composed of a plurality of routers, switches, cables, and the like that satisfy a communication standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark). However, in this embodiment, any communication standard, scale, and configuration may be used as long as communication between the imaging device 1000 and the client device 2000 can be performed.

  For example, the IP network 1500 may be configured by the Internet, a wired LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless LAN (Wireless LAN), a WAN (Wide Area Network), or the like. Note that the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment may be compatible with, for example, PoE (Power Over Ethernet (registered trademark)), and may be supplied with power via a LAN cable.

  The client apparatus 2000 transmits various commands to the imaging apparatus 1000. These commands are, for example, a command for changing the imaging direction and angle of view of the imaging apparatus 1000, a command for changing imaging parameters, a command for starting streaming of the captured image, and the like.

  On the other hand, the imaging apparatus 1000 transmits a response to these commands and a stream of captured images to the client apparatus 2000. Further, the imaging apparatus 1000 changes the angle of view in accordance with a command for changing the angle of view received from the client apparatus 2000.

  Next, FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment. The imaging optical system 2 in FIG. 2 forms an image of a subject imaged by the imaging apparatus 1000 on the imaging element 6 via an infrared cut filter 4 (Infrared Cut Filter; hereinafter referred to as IRCF).

  The IRCF 4 that blocks infrared rays is inserted into and removed from the optical path between the imaging optical system 2 and the imaging element 6 by a driving mechanism (not shown) based on a driving signal from the IRCF driving circuit 24. The image sensor 6 is composed of a CCD, a CMOS, or the like. The imaging element 6 captures an image of the subject formed by the imaging optical system 2. Furthermore, the image sensor 6 outputs a captured image by photoelectrically converting the captured subject image.

  Note that the image pickup device 6 in this embodiment corresponds to an image pickup unit that picks up an image of a subject formed by the image pickup optical system 2.

  The video signal processing circuit 8 outputs only the luminance signal of the captured image output from the image sensor 6 or is output from the image sensor 6 in accordance with an instruction from a central processing circuit (hereinafter also referred to as CPU) 26 described later. The luminance signal and color difference signal of the captured image are output to the encoding circuit 10. In addition, the video signal processing circuit 8 outputs the luminance signal of the captured image output from the image sensor 6 to the luminance measurement circuit 18 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 26.

  When only the luminance signal is output from the video signal processing circuit 8, the encoding circuit 10 compresses and encodes the output luminance signal, and outputs the compressed and encoded luminance signal to the buffer 12 as a captured image. On the other hand, when the luminance signal and the color difference signal are output from the video signal processing circuit 8, the encoding circuit 10 compresses and encodes the output luminance signal and the color difference signal, and the compressed luminance signal and the color difference signal are encoded. Is output to the buffer 12 as a captured image.

  The buffer 12 buffers the captured image output from the encoding circuit 10. Then, the buffer 12 outputs the buffered captured image to a communication circuit (hereinafter sometimes referred to as I / F) 14. The I / F 14 packetizes the captured image output from the buffer 12 and transmits the packetized captured image to the client apparatus 2000 via the communication terminal 16. Here, the communication terminal 16 includes a LAN terminal to which a LAN cable is connected.

  The I / F 14 corresponds to a receiving unit that receives a command related to insertion / removal of the IRCF 4 from the external client device 2000.

  The luminance measurement circuit 18 measures the luminance value of the current subject of the imaging apparatus 1000 based on the luminance signal output from the video signal processing circuit 8. Then, the luminance measurement circuit 18 outputs the measured luminance value to the determination circuit 20. The determination circuit 20 compares the luminance value of the subject output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 with the threshold value of the luminance of the subject set by the CPU 26, and outputs the comparison result to the CPU 26.

  The timer circuit 22 is set with a delay time from the CPU 26. In addition, the timer circuit 22 counts the time elapsed after receiving this instruction in accordance with the instruction to start timing from the CPU 26. Then, when the set delay time has elapsed, the time measuring circuit 22 outputs a signal indicating that the delay time has elapsed to the CPU 26.

  The IRCF driving circuit 24 receives an instruction from the CPU 26 and extracts the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. The IRCF driving circuit 24 receives an instruction from the CPU 26 and inserts the IRCF 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. The IRCF drive circuit 24 in this embodiment corresponds to an insertion / removal unit that inserts / removes the IRCF 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  The CPU 26 comprehensively controls each component of the imaging device 1000. Further, the CPU 26 executes a program stored in a non-volatile memory (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory; hereinafter referred to as EEPROM) 28 that can electrically erase data. Alternatively, the CPU 26 may perform control using hardware.

  When the I / F 14 receives an insertion instruction command for instructing insertion of the IRCF 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2, the CPU 26 receives an insertion instruction command subjected to appropriate packet processing at the I / F 14. . Next, the CPU 26 analyzes the input insertion instruction command. Then, the CPU 26 instructs the IRCF drive circuit 24 based on the result of this analysis, and causes the IRCF 4 to be inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Here, in the present embodiment, imaging of the subject by the imaging apparatus 1000 with the IRCF 4 inserted in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 is referred to as visible light imaging (normal imaging). That is, in visible light imaging, the imaging apparatus 1000 captures an image of the subject in a state where light from the subject is incident on the image sensor 6 via the IRCF 4.

  When visible light imaging is performed by the imaging apparatus 1000, the CPU 26 places importance on the color reproducibility of the captured image output from the imaging device 6 and instructs the video signal processing circuit 8 to output the luminance signal and the color difference signal. Is output to the encoding circuit 10. As a result, the I / F 14 delivers a color captured image. Therefore, in this embodiment, when visible light imaging is performed by the imaging apparatus 1000, the imaging mode of the imaging apparatus 1000 may be referred to as a color mode.

  When the removal instruction command for instructing removal of the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 is received by the I / F 14, the CPU 26 receives the removal instruction command that has been subjected to appropriate packet processing at the I / F 14. Entered. Next, the CPU 26 analyzes the input removal instruction command. Then, the CPU 26 instructs the IRCF drive circuit 24 based on the result of this analysis to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Here, in the present embodiment, imaging the subject with the imaging apparatus 1000 in a state where the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 is referred to as infrared imaging. That is, in infrared imaging, the imaging apparatus 1000 images the subject in a state where light from the subject is incident on the imaging element 6 without passing through the IRCF 4.

  When infrared imaging is performed by the imaging apparatus 1000, the CPU 26 instructs the video signal processing circuit 8 because the color balance of the captured image output from the imaging device 6 is lost, and encodes only the luminance signal. 10 to output. As a result, the I / F 14 delivers a monochrome captured image. Therefore, in the present embodiment, when infrared imaging is performed by the imaging apparatus 1000, the imaging mode of the imaging apparatus 1000 may be referred to as a monochrome mode.

  When the I / F 14 receives an automatic insertion / removal command for causing the imaging apparatus 1000 to automatically control insertion / removal of the IRCF 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2, the CPU 26 performs appropriate packet processing. The applied automatic insertion / removal command is input. Next, the CPU 26 analyzes the input automatic insertion / removal command.

  Here, in the automatic insertion / removal command, adjustment parameters relating to insertion / removal of the IRCF 4 can be described. This adjustment parameter can be omitted. The adjustment parameter is a parameter indicating a luminance value, for example. When a parameter indicating a luminance value is described in the automatic insertion / removal command input from the I / F 14, the CPU 26 sets a luminance threshold value corresponding to the described parameter in the determination circuit 20.

  On the other hand, when the parameter indicating the luminance value is not described in the automatic insertion / removal command input from the I / F 14, the CPU 26 reads out the luminance threshold value stored in advance in the EEPROM 28, and sets the read luminance threshold value. The determination circuit 20 is set.

  For example, when the determination circuit 20 determines that the luminance of the current subject exceeds the luminance threshold set by the CPU 26, the CPU 26 instructs the IRCF drive circuit 24 to place the IRCF 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. To insert.

  On the other hand, if the determination circuit 20 determines that the current luminance of the subject does not exceed the luminance threshold set by the CPU 26, the CPU 26 instructs the IRCF drive circuit 24 to transmit the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. To remove.

  Furthermore, the adjustment parameter relating to the insertion / removal of the IRCF 4 is, for example, a parameter indicating a delay time. When the parameter indicating the delay time is described in the automatic insertion / removal command input from the I / F 14, the CPU 26 sets the delay time corresponding to the described parameter in the timer circuit 22.

  On the other hand, when the parameter indicating the delay time is not described in the automatic insertion / removal command input from the I / F 14, the CPU 26 reads the delay time stored in the EEPROM 28 in advance from the EEPROM 28, and displays the read delay time. It is set in the timer circuit 22.

  For example, when the determination circuit 20 determines that the current luminance of the subject exceeds the luminance threshold set by the CPU 26, the CPU 26 instructs the timing circuit 22 to start timing. When a signal indicating that the delay time has elapsed is input from the timer circuit 22, the CPU 26 instructs the IRCF drive circuit 24 to insert the IRCF 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Alternatively, if the determination circuit 20 determines that the current luminance of the subject does not exceed the luminance threshold set by the CPU 26, the CPU 26 instructs the time measurement circuit 22 to start time measurement. Then, when a signal indicating that the delay time has elapsed is input from the timing circuit 22, the CPU 26 instructs the IRCF drive circuit 24 to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Note that the CPU 26 may set the delay time indicating “0” in the time counting circuit 22 when the parameter indicating the delay time is not described in the automatic insertion / removal command input from the I / F 14, or The delay time may not be set in the time measuring circuit 22. Thereby, the CPU 26 can instruct the IRCF drive circuit 24 immediately according to the determination result of the determination circuit 20 to insert / remove the IRCF 4.

  The automatic insertion / removal command in the present embodiment corresponds to an adjustment command that can describe a luminance value related to the luminance of the subject.

  Next, FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the client apparatus 2000 according to the present embodiment. The client device 2000 in the present embodiment is configured as a computer device connected to the IP network 1500, and is typically a general-purpose computer such as a personal computer (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a PC). .

  The CPU 426 in FIG. 3 comprehensively controls each component of the client device 2000. Further, the CPU 426 executes a program stored in a memory 428 described later. Alternatively, the CPU 426 may perform control using hardware. The memory 428 is used as a program storage area executed by the CPU 426, a work area during program execution, and a data storage area.

  A digital interface unit (hereinafter also referred to as I / F) 414 receives an instruction from the CPU 426 and transmits a command or the like to the imaging apparatus 1000 via the communication terminal 416. Also, the I / F 414 receives a command response, a captured image that has been streamed, and the like from the imaging apparatus 1000 via the communication terminal 416. The communication terminal 416 includes a LAN terminal to which a LAN cable is connected.

  The input unit 408 includes, for example, a button, a cross key, a touch panel, a mouse, and the like. The input unit 408 accepts input of instructions from the user. For example, the input unit 408 can accept input of various command transmission instructions to the imaging apparatus 1000 as instructions from the user.

  In addition, when a command transmission instruction to the imaging apparatus 1000 is input from the user, the input unit 408 notifies the CPU 426 that the input has been made. Then, the CPU 426 generates a command for the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the instruction input to the input unit 408. Next, the CPU 426 instructs the digital interface unit (hereinafter sometimes referred to as I / F) 414 to transmit the generated command to the imaging apparatus 1000.

  Furthermore, the input unit 408 can accept an input of a user response to an inquiry message to the user generated by the CPU 426 executing a program stored in the memory 428.

  Here, the CPU 426 decodes and expands the captured image output from the I / F 414. Then, the CPU 426 outputs the decoded and expanded captured image to the display unit 422. Thereby, the display unit 422 displays an image corresponding to the captured image output from the CPU 426.

  The display unit 422 can display an inquiry message or the like to the user that is generated when the control unit 2001 executes a program stored in the storage unit 2002. As the display portion 422 in this embodiment, a liquid crystal display device, a plasma display display device, a cathode ray tube (hereinafter sometimes referred to as CRT) display device such as a cathode ray tube, or the like can be used.

  As described above, the internal configurations of the imaging apparatus 1000 and the client apparatus 2000 have been described, but the processing blocks shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate preferred embodiments of the imaging apparatus and the external apparatus according to the present invention. This is not the case. Various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the present invention, such as including an audio input unit and an audio output unit.

  Next, FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the operation when the luminance threshold value and the delay time parameter are set in the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment. A graph 101 in FIG. 4 shows a temporal change in luminance of the subject of the imaging apparatus 1000. This graph 101 shows that the luminance of the subject decreases as time elapses, such as during a sunset.

  The luminance threshold value 102 indicates a luminance threshold value used for determining whether or not the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. A luminance threshold 103 indicates a luminance threshold used for determining whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  In this embodiment, the luminance threshold value described in the automatic insertion / removal command is normalized to a predetermined range of values. Specifically, the luminance threshold is limited to a value from −1.0 to +1.0. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, the specifiable range of the luminance threshold 102 and the luminance threshold 103 is a range from −1.0 to +1.0.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 4, when the luminance value falls below the luminance threshold value 103 due to a decrease in the luminance value of the subject, the CPU 26 sets a delay time in the timing circuit 22 and starts timing in the timing circuit 22. Instruct. Thereby, the time measuring circuit 22 starts time measurement.

  In FIG. 4, the luminance value of the subject is below the luminance threshold 103 at point A. The time when it falls below is t1. The CPU 26 sets a delay time in the timing circuit 22 when the time is lower than this, and the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path while the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 until the set delay time elapses. I won't let you.

  Such an operation of the CPU 26 can prevent the visible light imaging and the infrared imaging of the imaging apparatus 1000 from being frequently switched even if the graph 101 frequently crosses the luminance threshold 103. Further, such an operation can increase the probability that the luminance value of the subject is stably below the luminance threshold value 103. Such an operation is also effective when there is an influence of flicker of illumination such as a fluorescent lamp.

  Then, the CPU 26 instructs the IRCF drive circuit 24 to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 when the time reaches t2 after the delay time set in the time measuring circuit 22 has elapsed. Thereby, the imaging device 1000 performs infrared imaging. The luminance value of the subject at this time (time t2) is point B.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the user can cause the imaging apparatus 1000 to transmit an automatic insertion / removal command in which adjustment parameters relating to insertion / removal of the IRCF 4 are described by operating the client apparatus 2000. . Here, the adjustment parameter includes a parameter indicating the luminance of the subject and a parameter indicating the delay time.

  As a result, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received this automatic insertion / removal command prevents frequent insertion / removal of the IRCF 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even when the luminance value of the subject is near the luminance threshold. can do. In addition, the imaging apparatus 1000 can prevent frequent insertion / removal of the IRCF 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even when the luminance of the subject frequently changes due to lighting flicker or the like.

  Next, FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram for explaining a typical command sequence for setting adjustment parameters related to insertion / removal of the IRCF 4 between the imaging apparatus 1000 and the client apparatus 2000 according to the present embodiment. It is. In FIG. 5, ITU-T Recommendation Z. The transaction of this command is described using a so-called message sequence chart defined in the 120 standard.

  Note that the transaction in this embodiment refers to a pair of a command transmitted from the client apparatus 2000 to the imaging apparatus 1000 and a response that the imaging apparatus 1000 returns to the client apparatus 2000 in response thereto. In FIG. 5, it is assumed that the imaging apparatus 1000 and the client apparatus 2000 are connected via the IP network 1500.

  Next, through the GetServices transaction, the client apparatus 2000 can acquire the type of Web service supported (provided) by the imaging apparatus 1000 and the address URI for using each Web service.

  Specifically, the client apparatus 2000 transmits a GetServices command to the imaging apparatus 1000. With this command, the client apparatus 2000 acquires information indicating whether or not the imaging apparatus 1000 supports Imaging Service in order to determine whether or not the imaging apparatus 1000 can execute an automatic insertion / removal command or the like. be able to.

  On the other hand, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received this command returns a response to this command. In the present embodiment, this response indicates that the imaging apparatus 1000 supports Imaging Service. Note that ImagingService is a service for performing settings related to IRCF4 insertion / removal.

  Next, through a GetVideoSources transaction, the client apparatus 2000 acquires a list of VideoSources stored in the imaging apparatus 1000.

  Here, the VideoSource is a set of parameters indicating the performance of one image sensor 6 included in the image capturing apparatus 1000. For example, the VideoSource includes a VideoSourceToken that is an ID of the VideoSource, and a Resolution indicating the resolution of the captured image that can be output by the image sensor 6.

  The client apparatus 2000 transmits a GetVideoSources command to the imaging apparatus 1000. With this command, the client apparatus 2000 can acquire a VideoSourceToken indicating a VideoSource that can be set for IRCF4 insertion / removal.

  Then, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received the GetVideoSources command returns a response to this command to the client apparatus 2000. In the present embodiment, this response includes a VideoSourceToken indicating a VideoSource corresponding to the image sensor 6.

  Next, with the GetOptions transaction, the client apparatus 2000 can obtain information indicating a command that can be executed by the imaging apparatus 1000 among the insertion command, the removal command, and the automatic insertion / removal command from the imaging apparatus 1000. . Also, with this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 can acquire information indicating adjustment parameters that can be described in the automatic insertion / removal command.

  The client apparatus 2000 transmits a GetOptions command to the imaging apparatus 1000 (more specifically, an address URI for using the Imaging Service of the imaging apparatus 1000). This command includes VideoSourceToken included in the response of GetVideoSource received from the imaging apparatus 1000.

  On the other hand, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received this command returns a response to this command to the client apparatus 2000. In this example, this response includes IRCutFilterOptions.

  In this IRCutFilterOptions, information indicating commands that can be executed by the imaging apparatus 1000 among the insertion command, the extraction command, and the automatic insertion / removal command is described. Further, in this IRCutFilterOptions, information indicating adjustment parameters that can be executed (set) by the imaging apparatus 1000 among the adjustment parameters that can be described in the automatic insertion / removal command is described.

  Next, the client device 2000 can acquire information indicating the insertion / removal state of the IRCF 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 from the imaging device 1000 by a transaction of GetImagingSettings.

  The client apparatus 2000 transmits a GetImagingSettings command to an address URI for using the ImagingService of the imaging apparatus 1000. This command includes VideoSourceToken included in the response of GetVideoSource received from the imaging apparatus 1000.

  On the other hand, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received this command returns a response to this command. In this embodiment, this response includes IRCutFilter Settings.

  In this IRCutFilter Settings, information indicating whether the IRCF 4 is currently inserted in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 or whether the IRCF 4 is currently removed from this optical path is described. In this embodiment, this IRCutFilterSettings describes information indicating that the IRCF 4 is currently inserted in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Next, the client apparatus 2000 causes the imaging apparatus 1000 to automatically control the insertion / removal of the IRCF 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 by a transaction of SetImagingSettings.

  The client apparatus 2000 transmits a SetImagingSettings command to an address URI for using the ImagingServices of the imaging apparatus 1000. This command includes VideoSourceToken included in the response of GetVideoSource received from the imaging apparatus 1000.

  Further, in this command, information (IrCutFilter field whose value is “AUTO”) indicating that the imaging apparatus 1000 automatically controls insertion / removal of the IRCF 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 is described. In addition, an adjustment parameter (IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment field) is described in this command.

  The IrCutFilter field and the IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment field will be described later.

  On the other hand, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received this command returns a response of SetImagingSettings to the client apparatus 2000. This response argument is omitted. Here, this response in which the argument is omitted indicates that the execution of this command by the imaging apparatus 1000 is successful.

  Accordingly, the imaging apparatus 1000 automatically determines whether to insert IRCF 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 or whether to remove IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Next, FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the GetOptionsResponse transmission process in the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment. This process is executed by the CPU 26. When the CPU 26 receives a GetOptions command from the client apparatus 2000 via the I / F 14, the CPU 26 starts executing this process.

  Hereinafter, the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 will be described with reference to FIG. 7 as appropriate. Here, FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of GetOptionsResponse transmitted in the GetOptionsResponse transmission process of FIG.

  In step S601, the CPU 26 generates a GetOptions response and stores the generated GetOptions response in the EEPROM 28.

  In step S602, the CPU 26 sets ON, OFF, and AUTO to the value of the IrCutFilterModes field of the GetOptions response stored in the EEPROM 28 in step S601.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 7, three <img20: IrCutFilterModes> tags are associated with the <ImagingOptions20> tag in the GetOptions response. Furthermore, each of the three <Img20: IrCutFilterModes> tags is associated with ON, OFF, and AUTO.

  Note that the IrCutFilterModes field whose value is ON indicates that the imaging apparatus 1000 can accept an insertion instruction command. An IrCutFilterModes field whose value is OFF indicates that the imaging apparatus 1000 can accept a removal instruction command. Further, the IrCutFilterModes field whose value is AUTO indicates that the imaging apparatus 1000 can accept an automatic insertion / removal command.

  In step S603, the CPU 26 sets Common, ToOn, and ToOff to the value of the Mode field of the GetOptions response stored in the EEPROM 28 in step S601.

  Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 7, three <Img20: Mode> are associated with the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustmentOptions> tag in the GetOptions response. Furthermore, each of the three <Img20: Mode> tags is associated with Common, ToOn, and ToOff.

  Note that the Mode field whose value is ToOn indicates that the imaging apparatus 1000 can use the adjustment parameter to determine whether to insert the IRCF 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. The Mode field whose value is ToOff indicates that the imaging apparatus 1000 can use an adjustment parameter for determining whether to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Further, the Mode field having the value Common is common to each of the determination of whether or not the imaging apparatus 1000 inserts the IRCF 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path. Indicates that adjustment parameters can be used.

  For example, a GetOptions response in which a Mode field whose value is Common is described, a Mode field whose value is ToOn, and a Mode field whose value is ToOff is not described indicates the following.

  That is, the adjustment parameter used by the imaging apparatus 1000 can be commonly set for each of the case where the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and the case where the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Further, for example, a GetOptions response in which a Mode field having a value of Common is not described, a Mode field having a value of ToOn, and a Mode field having a value of ToOff is described as follows.

  That is, the adjustment parameters used by the imaging apparatus 1000 can be set separately for each of the case where the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and the case where the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  In step S604, the CPU 26 sets true to the value of the BoundaryOffset field of the GetOptions response stored in the EEPROM 28 in step S601. Further, the CPU 26 sets PT0S as the value of the Min field of the GetOptions response stored in the EEPROM 28 in step S601, and sets PT30M as the value of the Max field of this response.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 7, the <img20: BoundaryOffset> tag is associated with the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustmentOptions> tag in the GetOptions response. Furthermore, an <img20: ResponseTime> tag is associated with the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustmentOptions> tag.

  The <img20: BoundaryOffset> tag is associated with true. The <img20: ResponseTime> tag is associated with the <img20: Min> tag and the <img20: Max> tag. Here, PT0S is associated with the <img20: Min> tag. Also, PT30M is associated with this <img20: Max> tag.

  Note that a BoundaryOffset field whose value is true indicates that BoundaryOffset can be set in the imaging apparatus 1000. The <img20: Min> tag indicates the minimum time (shortest time) that can be set in the ResponseTime field. The <img20: Max> tag indicates the maximum time (longest time) that can be set in the ResponseTime field.

  That is, <img20: Min> and <img20: Max> indicate a time range that can be set in the ResponseTime field.

  In step S605, the CPU 26 instructs the I / F 14 to transmit the GetOptions response stored in the EEPROM 28 in step S601 to the client device 2000.

  Next, FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the SetImagingSettings command. In SetImagingSettings shown in FIG. 8A, AUTO is set in the value of the IrCutFilter field. More specifically, in the SetImagingSettings command, AUTO is associated with the <IrCutFilter> tag.

  Thus, the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8A corresponds to an automatic insertion / removal command for causing the imaging apparatus 1000 to automatically control insertion / removal of the IRCF 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  In the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8A, Common is set in the value of the BoundaryType field.

  More specifically, in this SetImagingSettings command, a <BoundaryType> tag is associated with the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag. Furthermore, a value of Common is associated with the <BoundaryType> tag.

  In the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8A, 0.52 is set in the value of the BoundaryOffset field.

  More specifically, in this SetImagingSettings command, the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag is associated with the <BoundaryOffset> tag. Further, 0.52 is associated with this <BoundaryOffset> tag.

  Furthermore, in the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8A, PT1M15S is set as the value of the ResponseTime field.

  More specifically, in this SetImagingSettings command, the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag is associated with the <ResponseTime> tag. The <ResponseTime> tag is associated with PT1M15S.

  Accordingly, the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8A can be said to be a command for instructing the imaging apparatus 1000 to do the following. That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field and the value of the ResponseTime field are commonly used by the imaging apparatus 1000 for each of the case where the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and the case where the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path.

  Subsequently, in SetImagingSettings shown in FIG. 8B, AUTO is set as the value of the IrCutFilter field. More specifically, in this SetImagingSettings command, AUTO is associated with the <IrCutFilter> tag.

  In addition, two IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment fields are described in the SetImagingSetting command shown in FIG. 8B. Here, the value of the BoundaryType field in the first IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment field is set to ToOn.

  More specifically, in this SetImagingSettings command, a <BoundaryType> tag is associated with the first <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag. The <BoundaryType> tag is associated with ToOn.

  In the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8B, the value of the BoundaryOffset field in the first IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment field is set to 0.16.

  More specifically, in this SetImagingSettings command, a <BoundaryOffset> tag is associated with the first <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag. The <BoundaryOffset> tag is associated with 0.25.

  Further, in the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8B, the value of ResponseTime in the first IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment field is set to PT1M30S.

  Next, in the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8B, the value of the BoundaryType field in the second IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment field is set to ToOff.

  More specifically, in this SetImagingSettings command, the <BoundaryType> tag is associated with the second <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag. The <BoundaryType> tag is associated with ToOff.

  In the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8B, the value of the BoundaryOffset field in the second IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment field is set to 0.25.

  More specifically, in this SetImagingSettings command, a <BoundaryOffset> tag is associated with the second <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag. The <BoundaryOffset> tag is associated with 0.25.

  In the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8B, the value of the ResponseTime field in the second IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment field is set to PT1M10S.

  More specifically, in this SetImagingSettings command, a <ResponseTime> tag is associated with the second <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag. The <ResponseTime> tag is associated with PT1M10S.

  Accordingly, the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8B can be said to be a command for instructing the imaging apparatus 1000 to do the following. That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field and the value of the ResponseTime field are separately used by the imaging apparatus 1000 for each of the case where the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and the case where the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path.

  As described above, in the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8B, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is 0.16. In the SetImagingSettings command shown in FIG. 8B, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff is 0.25.

  That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is smaller than the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  Next, FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining SetImagingSettings reception processing in the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment.

  This process is executed by the CPU 26. When the CPU 26 receives a SetImagingSettings command from the client device 2000 via the I / F 14, the CPU 26 starts executing this process. Further, it is assumed that the SetImagingSettings command received by the I / F 14 is stored in the EEPROM 28.

  In step S <b> 901, the CPU 26 reads a SetImagingSettings command from the EEPROM 28.

  In step S902, the CPU 26 determines whether or not the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn and the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff are described in the command read out in step S901.

  If the CPU 26 determines that a BoundaryType field with a value of ToOn and a BoundaryType field with a value of ToOff are described, the process proceeds to step S903. On the other hand, if the CPU 26 determines that the Boundary Type field whose value is ToOn and the Boundary Type field whose value is ToOff are not described, the process proceeds to step S908.

  If the CPU 26 determines that the Boundary Type field whose value is Common is described in the command read out in step S901, the CPU 26 may proceed to step S908.

  Further, the CPU 26 in this embodiment describes whether the luminance value is described in common for each of the case where the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and the case where the IRCF 4 is extracted from the optical path, or separately. This corresponds to a description determination unit that determines whether or not

  In step S903, the CPU 26 reads the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn in the command read in step S901. In the case of the command shown in FIG. 8B, the CPU 26 reads 0.16 as the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn.

  In step S904, the CPU 26 reads the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff in the command read in step S901. In the case of the command shown in FIG. 8B, the CPU 26 reads 0.25 as the value of BoundaryOffset corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  In step S905, the CPU 26 compares the value read in step S903 with the value read in step S904.

  In step S906, when the CPU 26 determines that the value read in step S903 is larger than the value read in step S904 as a result of the comparison in step S905, the CPU 26 stores the luminance threshold in the EEPROM 28.

  More specifically, the CPU 26 stores the luminance threshold corresponding to the value read in step S903 in the EEPROM 28 as a luminance threshold used for determining whether or not the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Further, the CPU 26 stores the luminance threshold corresponding to the value read in step S904 in the EEPROM 28 as a luminance threshold used for determining whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. After having memorize | stored in this way, CPU26 advances a process to step S908.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 26 determines that the value read in step S903 is smaller than the value read in step S904 as a result of the comparison in step S905, the process proceeds to step S907.

  In the present embodiment, it goes without saying that the SetImagingSettings command received by the I / F 14 is information necessary for the CPU 26 to make the determination in step S904.

  In step S907, the CPU 26 stores the luminance value corresponding to the value read in step S903 in the EEPROM 28 as a luminance threshold value used for determining whether to insert the IRCF 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Further, the CPU 26 uses the luminance value corresponding to the value obtained by subtracting 0.1 from the value read in step S903 as the luminance threshold value used for determining whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. Remember me.

  In other words, in this embodiment, the CPU 26 uses, in step S903, the determination based on one value (the value read in step S903) to determine whether the other value (IRCF4 is to be removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2). Brightness threshold) to be changed.

  In step S <b> 908, the CPU 26 instructs the I / F 14 to transmit a response of SetImagingSettings to the client apparatus 2000.

  Next, FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an automatic day / night process which is a process for automatically causing the imaging apparatus 1000 to control whether or not the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. This process is executed by the CPU 26.

  In step S <b> 1001, the CPU 26 reads from the EEPROM 28 a luminance threshold value used for determining whether to insert the IRCF 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. Then, the CPU 26 sets the read luminance threshold value in the determination circuit 20 as a luminance threshold value used for determining whether or not to insert the IRCF 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  In step S <b> 1002, the CPU 26 reads from the EEPROM 28 a delay time used for determining whether to insert the IRCF 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. Then, the CPU 26 sets the read delay time in the timer circuit 22 as a delay time used for determining whether to insert the IRCF 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. This delay time is shown as “responsiveness time threshold” in FIG.

  In step S <b> 1003, the CPU 26 instructs the determination circuit 20 to acquire the current luminance value of the subject of the imaging apparatus 1000 from the luminance measurement circuit 18.

  In step S1004, the CPU 26 instructs the determination circuit 20 to compare the luminance threshold set in step S1001 with the luminance value acquired in step S1003. Note that in step S1004 in FIG. 10, the luminance value acquired in step S1003 is shown as an “estimated luminance value”.

  In step S1005, the CPU 26 determines whether or not the luminance value acquired in step S1003 is equal to or higher than the luminance threshold set in step S1001 as a result of the comparison in step S1004.

  If the CPU 26 determines that the brightness value acquired in step S1003 is greater than or equal to the brightness threshold set in step S1001, the CPU 26 advances the process to step S1007. On the other hand, if the CPU 26 determines that the luminance value acquired in step S1003 is not greater than or equal to the luminance threshold set in step S1001, the CPU 26 returns the process to step S1004.

  In step S1006, the CPU 26 instructs the timing circuit 22 to stop timing.

  In step S1007, the CPU 26 instructs the timing circuit 22 to start timing.

  Since steps S1008 and S1009 are the same as steps S1004 and S1005, description thereof is omitted.

  In step S1010, the CPU 26 determines whether or not the timer circuit 22 has received a notification that the delay time set in step S1002 has elapsed since the start of timing in step S1007. In addition, in step S1010 in FIG. 10, this delay time is shown as “response time elapse”.

  If the CPU 26 determines that it has received a notification from the timing circuit 22 that the delay time set in step S1002 has elapsed since the start of timing in step S1007, the process proceeds to step S1011.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 26 determines that it has not received a notification from the timing circuit 22 that the delay time set in step S1002 has elapsed since it started counting in step S1007, the process proceeds to step S1011. To proceed.

  In step S <b> 1011, the CPU 26 instructs the IRCF drive circuit 24 to insert the IRCF 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. As a result, the imaging apparatus 1000 performs visible light imaging.

  As described above, this embodiment assumes the following case. That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is smaller than the value of the BoundaryOffset field of the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  Even in such a case, the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment can make the value of the BoundaryOffset field smaller than the value of the BoundaryOffset field of the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn.

  As a result, it is possible to prevent the IRCF 4 from being inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even when the luminance of the subject is low, and the subject of the captured image from being blacked out. In addition, it is possible to prevent the IRCF 4 from being extracted from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even if the luminance of the subject is high, and the subject of the captured image from being blown out.

  It is also effective for Onvif to make the value of the BoundaryOffset field of the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff smaller than the value of the BoundaryOffset field of the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn.

  This is because ONVIF limits the range of values in the BoundaryOffset field when the IRCF 4 is inserted into and removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 to the same range (-1.0 to +1.0). doing.

  Therefore, it is correct in the ONVIF standard that the value of the BoundaryOffset field when the IRCF4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 is larger than the value of the BoundaryOffset field when the IRCF4 is inserted into this optical path.

  Therefore, it is possible that a SetImagingSettings command in which such two BoundaryOffset fields are described from a client device compliant with the ONVIF standard is frequently transmitted.

  In step S907, the CPU 26 in this embodiment uses a value obtained by subtracting 0.1 from the value read in step S903 to determine whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. The brightness value to be stored in the EEPROM 28. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, in step S907, the CPU 26 uses a value obtained by adding 0.1 to the value read in step S904 as a luminance value used for determining whether to insert the IRCF 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. The data may be stored in the EEPROM 28. Further, in step S907, the CPU 26 may store the value read in step S904 in the EEPROM 28 as a luminance value used for determining whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. .

  In step S907, the value subtracted from the value read in step S903 (the value added to the value read in step S904) is set to “0.1”, but is not limited thereto. .

  For example, the CPU 26 receives an arbitrary value from the client device 2000 operated by the user via the I / F 14, and the received value is subtracted from the value read in step S903 (read out in step S904). It may be set to a value added to the value).

  In the present embodiment, the process of automatically controlling the imaging apparatus 1000 whether or not to insert the IRCF 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 has been described with reference to FIG. Here, processing for automatically controlling the imaging apparatus 1000 to determine whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path will be described below.

  In step S <b> 1001, the CPU 26 reads from the EEPROM 28 a luminance threshold value used for determining whether to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. Then, the CPU 26 sets the read luminance threshold value in the determination circuit 20 as a luminance threshold value used for determining whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  In step S <b> 1002, the CPU 26 reads from the EEPROM 28 a delay time used for determining whether to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. Then, the CPU 26 sets the read delay time in the timer circuit 22 as a delay time used for determining whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Since steps S1003 and S1004 are the same as steps S1003 and S1004 described above, description thereof is omitted.

  In step S1005, the CPU 26 determines whether the luminance value acquired in step S1003 is equal to or lower than the luminance threshold set in step S1001 as a result of the comparison in step S1004.

  If the CPU 26 determines that the luminance value acquired in step S1003 is less than or equal to the luminance threshold set in step S1001, the CPU 26 advances the process to step S1007. On the other hand, if the CPU 26 determines that the luminance value acquired in step S1003 is not less than or equal to the luminance threshold set in step S1001, the CPU 26 returns the process to step S1004.

  Since steps S1006 to S1010 are the same as steps S1006 to S1010 described above, description thereof will be omitted.

  In step S <b> 1011, the CPU 26 instructs the IRCF drive circuit 24 to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. Thereby, the imaging apparatus 1000 performs infrared imaging.

(Example 2)
Subsequently, Example 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the component same as the above-mentioned Example, and the description may be abbreviate | omitted.

  Here, in the above-described first embodiment, the following case is assumed. That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is lower than the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  In the first embodiment described above, even in such a case, the value of the BoundaryOffset field can be made smaller than the value of the BoundaryOffset field of the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn.

  In contrast, in this case, the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the second embodiment transmits information indicating that the value of each BoundaryOffset field is not set correctly to the client apparatus 2000.

  As a result, the user who operates the client device 2000 can notice that the value of each BoundaryOffset field is not set correctly. The second embodiment in consideration of such points will now be described.

  Next, FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining SetImagingSettings reception processing in the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment.

  This process is executed by the CPU 26. When the CPU 26 receives a SetImagingSettings command from the client device 2000 via the I / F 14, the CPU 26 starts executing this process. Further, it is assumed that the SetImagingSettings command received by the I / F 14 is stored in the EEPROM 28.

  Since steps S1101 to S1106 are the same as steps S901 to S906, the description thereof is omitted.

  In step S <b> 1107, the CPU 26 instructs the I / F 14 to cause the client apparatus 2000 to transmit a response of SetImagingSettings indicating that the SetImagingSettings command received by the I / F 14 is abnormal.

  Note that the I / F 14 in this embodiment corresponds to a transmission unit that transmits information indicating that the SetImagingSettings command received by the I / F 14 is abnormal.

  In step S <b> 1108, the CPU 26 instructs the I / F 14 to cause the client device 2000 to transmit a response of SetImagingSettings indicating that the SetImagingSettings command received by the I / F 14 is normal.

  As described above, this embodiment assumes the following case. That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is smaller than the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  Even in such a case, the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment can notify the client apparatus 2000 of information indicating that the value of each BoundaryOffset field is not set correctly. Thereby, the user who operates the client apparatus 2000 can notice that the value of each BoundaryOffset field is not set correctly.

  As a result, the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even though the luminance of the subject is low, and the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even though the luminance of the subject is high. Can be prevented.

(Example 3)
Subsequently, Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the component same as the above-mentioned Example, and the description may be abbreviate | omitted.

  Here, in the above-described second embodiment, the following case is assumed. That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is lower than the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  In such a case, the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the second embodiment transmits information indicating that the value of each BoundaryOffset field is not set correctly to the client apparatus 2000.

  On the other hand, the client device 2000 according to the third embodiment notifies the user that the value is not set correctly when the value of each BoundaryOffset field is set by the client device 2000 in such a case. .

  As a result, the user who operates the client apparatus 2000 can notice that the values of the respective BoundaryOffset fields are not set correctly before sending the SetImagingSettings command in which the values are not set correctly. A third embodiment in consideration of such points will now be described.

  Next, FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of an IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment setting screen in the client device 2000 according to the present embodiment. This screen is displayed on the display unit 422.

  The IRCF type selection pane 301 in FIGS. 12A and 12B includes a Common selection check box 303, a ToOn selection check box 305, a ToOff selection check box 307, and a BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309.

  The IRCF type selection pane 301 includes a delay time setting numerical value box 311. The IRCF setting pane 315 is provided with a first luminance threshold setting scale 317, a second luminance threshold setting scale 319, a first delay time setting scale 321, and a second delay time setting scale 323. Further, a setting button 325 and a cancel button 327 are provided on the setting screen shown in FIG.

  Here, in the IRCF setting pane 315, the vertical axis indicates the luminance value, and the horizontal axis indicates the delay time. In particular, in the IRCF setting pane 315, the horizontal axis (on the Time axis) indicates a luminance value of 0 (zero), and the upper limit (upper end) indicates a normalized luminance value of 1.0. Further, the lower limit (lower end) indicates a normalized luminance value −1.0. In the IRCF setting pane 315, the left limit (left end) indicates the delay time 0 (zero).

  Subsequently, FIG. 12A illustrates a case where the luminance threshold value and the delay time are set in common for the case where the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and the case where the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. It is an example of a setting screen.

  That is, the screen in FIG. 12A is a setting screen used when a SetImagingSettings command in which a BoundaryType field whose value is Common is described is transmitted to the imaging apparatus 1000.

  A common selection check box 303 in FIG. 12A is selected by the user. As a result, when the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and when the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path, the common luminance threshold and delay time are used by the imaging apparatus 1000.

  For this reason, the second luminance threshold setting scale 319 and the second delay time setting scale 323 are grayed out. That is, the second luminance threshold setting scale 319 and the second delay time setting scale 323 are in an inoperable state.

  The user slides the first brightness threshold setting scale 317 up and down to set the user's desired BoundaryOffset value. When the first brightness threshold setting scale 317 is operated by the user, the value of the Common equivalent in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309 changes in conjunction with this operation.

  On the other hand, the user can also directly input a value in the Common equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309. Then, when a value is input to the Common equivalent part by the user, the first luminance threshold setting scale 317 moves up and down according to the input value.

  Thus, the user can roughly grasp the value of BoundaryOffset from the position of the first luminance threshold setting scale 317. Furthermore, since this position and the value of the Common equivalent in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309 are linked, the user can accurately grasp the value of BoundaryOffset by this Common equivalent.

  When the setting button 325 is pressed while the first luminance threshold setting scale 317 is arranged on the Time axis, the client device 2000 transmits a SetImagingSettings command in which the BoundaryOffset field is omitted.

  Similarly, even if the setting button 325 is pressed in a state where 0 (zero) is input to the Common equivalent part of the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the client apparatus 2000 transmits the omitted SetImagingSettings command.

  In this embodiment, the user can instruct the omission of the BoundaryOffset field by placing the first luminance threshold setting scale 317 on the Time axis or by inputting 0 in the Common equivalent part. However, it is not limited to this.

  For example, a GUI component for instructing to omit the BoundaryOffset field in the SetImagingSettings command may be separately displayed on the display unit 422.

  Specifically, a BoundaryOffset field omission check box is arranged on the screen of FIG. 12 as such a GUI component. Then, when this check box is selected by the user, the BoundaryOffset field of the SetImagingSettings command may be omitted.

  Also, the user sets the value of ResponseTime desired by the user by sliding the first delay time setting scale 321 left and right. When the first delay time setting scale 321 is operated by the user, the time display of the common equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311 changes in conjunction with this operation.

  On the other hand, the user can also directly input the time into the Common equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311. Then, when the user inputs time to the Common corresponding part, the first delay time setting scale 321 moves to the left and right according to the input time.

  It is assumed that the setting button 325 is pressed while the first delay time setting scale 321 is arranged at the left end of the IRCF setting pane 315. In such a case, the client apparatus 2000 transmits a SetImagingSettings command in which the ResponseTime field is omitted.

  Similarly, it is assumed that the setting button 325 is pressed in a state where 0 (zero) is input to all the numerical boxes corresponding to the common in the delay time setting numerical box 311. Even in such a case, the client apparatus 2000 assumes a SetImagingSettings command in which the ResponseTime field is omitted.

  In this embodiment, the response time field is omitted by placing the first delay time setting scale 321 at the left end of the IRCF setting pane 315 or by inputting 0 in the common equivalent part of the delay time setting numerical value box 311. Can be directed. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, a GUI component for instructing to omit the ResponseTime field in the SetImagingSettings command may be separately displayed on the display unit 422.

  Specifically, a ResponseTime field omission check box is arranged on the screen of FIG. 12 as such a GUI component. Then, when this check box is selected by the user, the ResponseTime field of the SetImagingSettings command may be omitted.

  Subsequently, FIG. 12B shows a case in which the brightness threshold and the delay time are separately set for each of the case where the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and the case where the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. It is an example of a setting screen.

  That is, the screen of FIG. 12B is a setting screen used when transmitting a SetImagingSettings command in which two BoundaryType fields whose values are ToOn and ToOff are described to the imaging apparatus 1000, respectively.

  Each of the ToOn selection check box 305 and the ToOff selection check box 307 in FIG. 12B is selected by the user. As a result, the brightness threshold and the delay time are set separately for each of the case where the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and the case where the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path.

  Therefore, since the ToOn selection check box 305 is selected by the user, each of the first luminance threshold setting scale 317 and the first delay time setting scale 321 is enabled (operable state). Further, since the ToOff selection check box 307 is selected by the user, each of the second luminance threshold setting scale 319 and the second delay time setting scale 323 is enabled (operable state).

  Here, the luminance threshold set by the first luminance threshold setting scale 317 and the delay time set by the first delay time setting scale 321 determine whether or not the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. Will be used.

  Further, the luminance threshold set by the second luminance threshold setting scale 319 and the delay time set by the second delay time setting scale 323 are used to determine whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. Will be used.

  In the screen of FIG. 12B, when only the ToOn selection check box 305 is selected by the user, the first luminance threshold setting scale 317 and the first delay time setting scale 321 are operable. .

  In this case, the second luminance threshold setting scale 319 and the second delay time setting scale 323 are grayed out. That is, the second luminance threshold setting scale 319 and the second delay time setting scale 323 are inoperable.

  On the other hand, in the screen of FIG. 12, when only the ToOff selection check box 307 is selected by the user, the second luminance threshold setting scale 319 and the second delay time setting scale 323 are operable.

  In this case, the second luminance threshold setting scale 319 and the second delay time setting scale 323 are grayed out. That is, the second luminance threshold setting scale 319 and the second delay time setting scale 323 are inoperable.

  Note that the common selection check box 303, the ToOn selection check box 305, and the ToOff selection check box 307 cannot be selected at the same time on the screen of FIG.

  For example, when the common selection check box 303 is selected by the user, the ToOn selection check box 305 and the ToOff selection check box 307 are inoperable.

  When either or both of the ToOn selection check box 305 and the ToOff selection check box 307 are selected by the user, the Common selection check box 303 becomes inoperable.

  In addition, the client apparatus 2000 according to the present embodiment may transmit a GetImagingSettings command to the imaging apparatus 1000 before displaying the setting screen illustrated in FIG. 12 on the display unit 422. Then, the client device 2000 may update the setting screen of FIG. 12 displayed on the display unit 422 in accordance with the GetImagingsSettings response transmitted from the imaging device 1000.

  Here, this response includes an IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment field. In this field, the current value of the BoundaryType field, the value of the BoundaryOffset field, and the value of the ResponseTime field of the imaging apparatus 1000 are described.

  For example, when the value of the BoundaryType field of the GetImagingSettings response received from the imaging apparatus 1000 is only Common, the client apparatus 2000 sets the Common selection check box 303 to a selected state.

  Further, in this case, the client apparatus 2000 displays the value of the BoundaryOffset field included in this response in the Common equivalent in the BoundaryOffset setting value box 309.

  Further, in this case, the client apparatus 2000 displays the value of the ResponseTime field included in this response in the Common equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311.

  In addition, the client device 2000 sets the ToOn selection check box 305 in a selected state when the value of the BoundaryType field of the GetImagingSettings response received from the imaging device 1000 is only ToOn and ToOff. Further, in this case, the client apparatus 2000 sets the ToOff selection check box 307 in a selected state.

  In this case, the client apparatus 2000 displays the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value in this response is ToOn on the screen of FIG. More specifically, the client apparatus 2000 displays this value in the ToOn equivalent part of the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309.

  Next, in this case, the client apparatus 2000 displays the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value in this response is ToOff on the screen of FIG. More specifically, the client apparatus 2000 displays this value in the ToOff equivalent part of the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309.

  In this case, the client apparatus 2000 displays the value of the ResponseTime field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value in this response is ToOn in the ToOn equivalent part of the delay time setting numerical value box 311.

  Further, in this case, the client apparatus 2000 displays the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value in this response is ToOff in the ToOff equivalent part of the delay time setting numerical value box 311.

  Note that when the user presses the cancel button 327, the client apparatus 2000 ends the display of the screen in FIG.

  Further, the client device 2000 according to the present embodiment may transmit a GetOptions command to the imaging device 1000 before displaying the setting screen illustrated in FIG. 12 on the display unit 422. Then, the client device 2000 may update the setting screen of FIG. 12 displayed on the display unit 422 in accordance with the GetOptions response transmitted from the imaging device 1000.

  Here, this response includes an IrCutFilterAutoAdjustmetOptions field. In this field, the value of the BoundaryType field that can be received by the imaging apparatus 1000 is described.

  For example, when the value of the Mode field of the GetOptins response received from the imaging apparatus 1000 is only “Common”, the client apparatus 2000 sets the common selection check box 303 in a selected state as illustrated in FIG.

  Further, when the value of the Mode field of the GetOptions response received from the imaging apparatus 1000 is only ToOn and ToOff, the client apparatus 2000 sets the ToOn selection check box 305 to the selected state as illustrated in FIG. To do. Further, in this case, the client apparatus 2000 sets the ToOff selection check box 307 in a selected state.

  Here, in the setting screen of FIG. 12B, the value of the ToOn equivalent part of the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309 is set to 0.16. On the other hand, in this setting screen, the value of the ToOff equivalent part of the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309 is set to 0.25.

  In this case, when the luminance of the subject is low, the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2, and when the luminance of the subject is high, the IRCF 4 may be removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2, and the correct BoundaryOffset is obtained. It is hard to say that the setting.

  For this reason, when the setting button 325 is pressed by the user, the client apparatus 2000 notifies the user that a setting error of the BoundaryOffset is displayed by displaying a pop-up dialog or the like.

  13 and 14 are flowcharts for explaining SetImagingSettings transmission processing in the client apparatus 2000 according to the present embodiment.

  This process is executed by the CPU 426. Then, the CPU 426 determines whether or not the setting button 325 has been pressed. If it is determined that the setting button 325 has been pressed, the CPU 426 starts this processing and determines that the setting button 325 has not been pressed. Does not start this processing.

  In step S1201, the CPU 426 generates a SetImagingSettings command and stores the generated SetImagingSettings command in the memory 428. The value of the IrCutFilter field in the stored SetImagingSettings command is AUTO.

  Thereby, as shown in FIG. 8A or FIG. 8B, AUTO is associated with the <IrCutFilter> tag of the stored SetImagingSettings command.

  In step S1202, the CPU 426 determines whether the Common selection check box 303 is selected, or whether the ToOn selection check box 305 and the ToOff selection check box 307 are selected.

  If the CPU 426 determines that the common selection check box 303 is selected, the CPU 426 advances the process to step S1203. On the other hand, if the CPU 426 determines that the ToOn selection check box 305 and the ToOff selection check box 307 are selected, the process proceeds to step S1301.

  In step S1203, the CPU 426 adds a BoundaryType field whose value is Common to the command stored in step S1201.

  Thereby, as shown in FIG. 8A, the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag is described in the stored command. Further, in this command, a <BoundaryType> tag is associated with and described in the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag.

  In addition, in this command, Common is associated with and described in this <BoundaryType> tag.

  In step S1204, the CPU 426 determines whether or not a value is set in the Common equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309. If the CPU 426 determines that a value is set in the Common equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the process proceeds to step S1205.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 426 determines that no value is set in the Common equivalent in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the process proceeds to step S1206.

  In step S1205, the CPU 426 adds a BoundaryOffset field to the command stored in step S1201. The value of the BoundaryOffset field is a value set in the Common equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309.

  Now, as shown in FIG. 8A, in this stored command, the <BoundaryOffset> tag is associated with and described in the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag of this command. Further, in this command, 0.52 is associated with and described in the <BoundaryOffset> tag.

  In step S <b> 1206, the CPU 426 determines whether or not a value is set in a common equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311. If the CPU 426 determines that a value is set in the Common equivalent in the delay time setting numerical value box 311, the process proceeds to step S <b> 1207.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 426 determines that no value is set in the Common equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311, the process proceeds to step S1208.

  In step S1207, the CPU 426 adds a ResponseTime field to the command stored in step S1201. The value of the ResponseTime field is a value set in the Common equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311.

  Thus, for example, as shown in FIG. 8A, in the stored command, the <ResponseTime> tag is associated with and described in the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag of this command. Further, in this command, PT1M15S is associated with and described in the <ResponseTime> tag.

In step S1208, the CPU 426 instructs the I / F 414 to execute step S120.
The command stored in 1 is transmitted to the imaging apparatus 1000.

  Subsequently, in step S1301 in FIG. 14, the CPU 426 determines whether or not a value is set in the ToOn equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309.

  If the CPU 426 determines that a value is set in the ToOn equivalent part of the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the CPU 426 acquires the set value and advances the process to step S1302. On the other hand, if the CPU 426 determines that no value is set in the ToOn equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the process shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 ends.

  In step S1302, the CPU 426 determines whether or not a value is set in a ToOff equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting value box 309.

  If the CPU 426 determines that a value is set in the ToOff equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the CPU 426 acquires the set value and advances the process to step S1303. On the other hand, if the CPU 426 determines that a value is not set in the ToOff equivalent portion in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the processing shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 ends.

  In step S1303, the CPU 426 determines whether or not the value acquired in step S1301 is larger than the value acquired in step S1302.

  If the CPU 426 determines that the value acquired in step S1301 is larger than the value acquired in step S1302, the CPU 426 advances the process to step S1304. On the other hand, if the CPU 426 determines that the value acquired in step S1301 is not greater than the value acquired in step S1302, the process proceeds to step S1313.

  Note that the CPU 426 in step S1303 corresponds to a luminance value determination unit that determines whether or not the value acquired in step S1301 is larger than the value acquired in step S1302.

  In step S1304, the CPU 426 adds a BoundaryType field having a value of ToOn and a BoundaryType field having a value of ToOff to the command stored in step S1201.

  Thereby, as shown in FIG. 8B, two <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tags are described in the stored command. Further, in this command, a <BoundaryType> tag is associated with and described in the first <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag of the two <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tags.

  In addition, in this command, ToOn is associated with and described in this <BoundaryType> tag.

  In this command, a <BoundaryType> tag is associated with and described in the second <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tag of the two <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tags. In this command, ToOff is associated with and described in the <BoundaryType> tag.

  In step S1305, the CPU 426 determines whether or not a value is set in the ToOn equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309. If the CPU 426 determines that a value is set in the ToOn equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the process proceeds to step S1306.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 426 determines that no value is set in the ToOn equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the process proceeds to step S1307.

  In step S1306, the CPU 426 adds a BoundaryOffset field to the command stored in step S1201. Further, the value of the BoundaryOffset field is a value set in the ToOn equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309. Further, this BoundaryOffset field is associated with a BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 8B, in this stored command, a <BoundaryOffset> tag having a value of 0.16 is associated with the first tag of the two <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tags. And described.

  In step S1307, the CPU 426 determines whether or not a value is set in the ToOff equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309.

  If the CPU 426 determines that a value is set in the ToOff equivalent part of the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the process proceeds to step S1308. On the other hand, if the CPU 426 determines that a value is not set in the ToOff equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the process proceeds to step S1309.

  In step S1308, the CPU 426 adds a BoundaryOffset field to the command stored in step S1201. The value of the BoundaryOffset field is a value set in the ToOff equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309.

  Further, this BoundaryOffset field is associated with a BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  Thereby, for example, in this stored command, a <BoundaryOffset> tag having a value of −0.76 is associated with and described in the second tag of the two <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tags.

  In step S1309, the CPU 426 determines whether or not a value is set in the ToOn equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311. If the CPU 426 determines that a value is set in the ToOn equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311, the process proceeds to step S1310.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 426 determines that no value is set in the ToOn equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311, the process proceeds to step S1311.

  In step S1310, CPU 426 adds a ResponseTime field to the command stored in step S1201. Further, the value of the ResponseTime field is a value set in the ToOn equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311. Further, this ResponseTime field is associated with a BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn.

  Thus, for example, as shown in FIG. 8B, in this stored command, the <ResponseTime> tag having the value PT1M30S is associated with the first tag of the two <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tags. And described.

  In step S <b> 1311, the CPU 426 determines whether or not a value is set in a portion corresponding to ToOff in the delay time setting numerical value box 311. If the CPU 426 determines that a value is set in the ToOff equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311, the process proceeds to step S1312.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 426 determines that a value is not set in the portion corresponding to ToOff in the delay time setting numerical value box 311, the process proceeds to step S1208.

  In step S1312, the CPU 426 adds a ResponseTime field to the command stored in step S1201. The value of the ResponseTime field is a value set in the ToOff equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311. Further, this ResponseTime field is associated with a BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  Thus, for example, as shown in FIG. 8B, in this stored command, the <ResponseTime> tag with the value PT1M10S is associated with the second tag of the two <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment> tags, And described.

  In step S1313, the CPU 426 instructs the display unit 422 to display information such as a message indicating an error. This information indicates, for example, the following. That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is lower than the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  Here, the CPU 426 in this embodiment corresponds to a display control unit that displays information indicating an error on the display unit 422.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the following cases are assumed. That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is lower than the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

In such a case, the client device 2000 according to the present embodiment may notify the user that the value is not set correctly when the value of each BoundaryOffset field is set by the client device 2000. it can.
As a result, the user who operates the client apparatus 2000 can notice that the values of the respective BoundaryOffset fields are not set correctly before sending the SetImagingSettings command in which the values are not set correctly.

  As a result, the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even though the luminance of the subject is low, and the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even though the luminance of the subject is high. It can be prevented in advance.

  Note that the IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment setting screen in the present embodiment corresponds to a user interface unit for inputting values such as the BoundaryOffset field described in the SetImagingSettings command.

Example 4
Subsequently, Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the component same as the above-mentioned Example, and the description may be abbreviate | omitted.

  Here, in the above-described third embodiment, the following case is assumed. That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is lower than the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  In such a case, the client device 2000 in the above-described third embodiment notifies the user that the value is not set correctly when the value of each BoundaryOffset field is set by the client device 2000. .

  On the other hand, in such a case, the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the fourth embodiment converts each BoundaryOffset field value by using a conversion table stored in the EEPROM 28.

  Thereby, the luminance threshold value used for determining whether to insert IRCF 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 is larger than the luminance threshold value used for determining whether to remove IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. can do. The fourth embodiment in consideration of such points will now be described.

  FIG. 15 is a table in which the value of the BoundaryOffset field in the SetImagesSettins command and the luminance value of the subject are associated with each other according to the present embodiment.

  FIG. 15A shows a table 1401 in which the value of the BoundaryOffset field associated with the BoundaryType field whose value in the SetImagingSettings command is ToOn is associated with the luminance value of the subject.

  FIG. 15B shows a table 1402 in which the value of the BoundaryOffset field associated with the BoundaryType field whose value in the SetImagingSettings command is ToOff is associated with the luminance value of the subject.

  Note that these tables are stored in the EEPROM 28. The luminance values of the subjects in the tables 1401 and 1402 are the luminance values acquired from the luminance measurement circuit 18.

  In the ToOn table 1401, the value “−1 (−1.0)” of the Boundary Offset is associated with the luminance value “50” of the subject. Here, in the ToOn table 1401, as the value of BoundaryOffset increases, the luminance value of the subject associated with this value also increases.

  In the ToOn table 1401, the luminance value “100” of the subject is associated with the value “+1 (+1.0)” of the BoundaryOffset.

  Further, in the ToOff table 1402, the BoundaryOffset value “−1 (−1.0)” is associated with the luminance value “20” of the subject. Here, in the table 1402, as the value of BoundaryOffset increases, the luminance value of the subject associated with this value also increases.

  In the ToOff table 1402, the Boundary Offset value “+1 (+1.0)” is associated with the luminance value “40” of the subject.

  As described above, the lower limit value of the range of the luminance value of the subject (first range) in the table 1401 is larger than the upper limit value of the range of the luminance value of the subject (second range) in the table 1402.

  Next, FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining SetImagingSettings reception processing in the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment.

  This process is executed by the CPU 26. When the CPU 26 receives a SetImagingSettings command from the client device 2000 via the I / F 14, the CPU 26 starts executing this process. Further, it is assumed that the SetImagingSettings command received by the I / F 14 is stored in the EEPROM 28.

  Since steps S1501 to S1503 are the same as steps S901 to S903, description thereof is omitted.

  In step S1504, the CPU 26 reads the luminance value of the subject associated with the value of BoundaryOffset read in step S1503 from the table 1401 stored in the EEPROM 28. Then, the CPU 26 sets the read luminance value in the determination circuit 20 as a luminance threshold value used for determining whether or not the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  The CPU 26 in this embodiment corresponds to a conversion unit that converts the value of BoundaryOffset described in the SetImagingSettings command received by the I / F 14.

  Since step S1505 is the same as step S904, description thereof is omitted.

  In step S <b> 1506, the CPU 26 reads the luminance value of the subject associated with the value of BoundaryOffset read in step S <b> 1505 from the table 1402 stored in the EEPROM 28. Then, the CPU 26 sets the read luminance value in the determination circuit 20 as a luminance threshold value used for determining whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Since step S1507 is the same as step S1108, description thereof is omitted.

  As described above, the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment determines, based on the table 1401, the value of BoundaryOffset corresponding to the BoundaryType whose value is ToOn and whether to insert the IRCF 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. To the luminance threshold value.

  Furthermore, the imaging apparatus 1000 converts the value of BoundaryOffset corresponding to the BoundaryType whose value is ToOff based on the table 1402 into a luminance threshold value for determining whether to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Here, the lowest value (“50”) of the luminance value of the subject in the table 1401 is larger than the highest value (“40”) of the luminance of the subject in the table 1402.

  Thereby, even in the following cases, the luminance threshold for determining whether or not to insert the IRCF 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 is the luminance threshold for determining whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from this optical path. Can be prevented from becoming smaller.

  That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is smaller than the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  As a result, no matter how the values of the respective BoundaryOffset fields are set by the client apparatus 2000, the IRCF 4 is prevented from being inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even though the luminance of the subject is low. be able to. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the IRCF 4 from being removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even though the luminance of the subject is high.

  In this embodiment, the minimum value of the luminance value of the subject in the table 1401 is set to be larger than the maximum value of the luminance value of the subject in the table 1402. Here, although the prevention effect as described above is reduced, the following configuration is also conceivable.

  That is, the maximum value of the subject brightness value in the table 1402 is made slightly larger than the designated value of the subject brightness value in the table 1401, and the subject brightness value range in the table 1401 and the subject brightness value range in the table 1402 are set. Is partially overlapped.

(Example 5)
Subsequently, Example 5 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the component same as the above-mentioned Example, and the description may be abbreviate | omitted.

  Here, the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the fourth embodiment converts the value of each BoundaryOffset field into a luminance threshold value used in the determination circuit 20 based on the table stored in the EEPROM 28.

  Thereby, even in the following cases, the luminance threshold for determining whether or not to insert the IRCF 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 is the luminance threshold for determining whether or not to remove the IRCF 4 from this optical path. Can be prevented from becoming smaller.

  That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is lower than the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  On the other hand, in such a case, the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the fifth embodiment exchanges the values of the respective BoundaryOffset fields, and sets the luminance threshold value in the determination circuit 20 using the exchanged values.

  As a result, the brightness threshold for determining whether to insert IRCF 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 without storing the table in the EEPROM 28 is used to determine whether IRCF 4 is to be extracted from this optical path. It can prevent becoming smaller than a threshold value.

  Next, FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining SetImagingSettings reception processing in the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment.

  Steps S1601 to S1606 are the same as steps S901 to S906, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  In step S <b> 1607, the CPU 26 stores the luminance threshold corresponding to the value read in step S <b> 1603 in the EEPROM 28 as a luminance threshold for determining whether to remove the IRCF 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  In step S1608, the CPU 26 stores the luminance threshold corresponding to the value read in step S1604 in the EEPROM 28 as a luminance threshold for determining whether to insert the IRCF 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  As described above, this embodiment assumes the following case. That is, the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn is smaller than the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff.

  In such a case, the imaging apparatus 1000 in the present embodiment exchanges the values of the respective BoundaryOffet fields, and sets a luminance threshold value in the determination circuit 20 based on the exchanged values.

  As a result, the brightness threshold for determining whether to insert IRCF 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 without storing the table in the EEPROM 28 is used to determine whether IRCF 4 is to be extracted from this optical path. It can prevent becoming smaller than a threshold value.

  In the above-described embodiment, the IRCF 4 is used as the optical filter that is inserted into and removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as such an optical filter, an ND filter for reducing the amount of light from the subject without affecting the color development of the captured image output from the image sensor may be used instead of the IRCF 4.

  In addition, the BoundaryOffset field in the above-described embodiment can be said to be a parameter for adjusting the boundary exposure level for switching between effective (On) and invalid (Off) of the infrared cut-off filter, for example. Here, this effective means that the IRCF 4 is inserted in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. Further, this invalid means that the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  The value of the BoundaryOffset field is a value normalized from −1.0 to +1.0, for example, and has no unit. Further, the value of the BoundaryOffset field is 0 as an initial value, -1.0 is the darkest, and +1.0 is the brightest.

  Further, the BoundaryType field of the value Common can be described in the SetImagingSettings command in the above-described embodiment. Here, it is assumed that the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn and the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff are not described in this command.

  On the other hand, in the SetImagingsSettings command in the above-described embodiment, a BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn and a BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff can be described. Here, it is assumed that the BoundaryType field whose value is Common is not described in this command.

  Therefore, in the SetImagingSettings command, the BoundaryOffset field can be described separately for each of the case where the IRCF 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and the case where the IRCF 4 is removed from the optical path. Further, the BoundaryOffset field can be commonly described for each of the SetImagingSettings commands.

(Other examples)
The present invention can also be realized by executing the following processing. That is, software (program) that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is provided to a system or apparatus via a network or various storage media, and the computer (or CPU, MPU, etc.) of the system or apparatus reads the program. To be executed.

  As mentioned above, although the preferable Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to these Examples, A various deformation | transformation and change are possible within the range of the summary.

2 Imaging optics 4 IRCF
14 Communication Circuit 24 IRCF Drive Circuit 26 CPU
1500 IP network 2000 client device

Claims (21)

An imaging device that communicates with an external device via a network,
An imaging optical system;
Imaging means for capturing an image of a subject imaged by the imaging optical system;
An infrared blocking filter that blocks infrared;
Insertion / removal means for inserting / removing the infrared blocking filter into / from the optical path of the imaging optical system;
An adjustment command in which a luminance value related to the luminance of the subject can be described, and the luminance value for each of the case where the infrared blocking filter is inserted into the optical path and the case where the infrared blocking filter is removed from the optical path. Receiving means for receiving adjustment commands that can be described separately from the external device via a network;
When the brightness value described separately in the adjustment command received by the receiving means is converted, and the value converted from the brightness value described in the case of insertion in the adjustment command is extracted in the adjustment command A conversion means for making the luminance value described for the value larger than the converted value;
Control means for controlling the insertion / removal means based on the value converted by the conversion means;
An imaging apparatus comprising:   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the range of luminance values that can be separately described in the adjustment command received by the receiving unit is the same.   The converting means converts the luminance value described in the case of insertion in the adjustment command received by the receiving means into a value in the first range, and converts the luminance value described in the case of extracting in the adjustment command to the luminance value. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the imaging apparatus converts the value into a value in a second range different from the first range.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first range and the second range partially overlap each other.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a lower limit value of the first range is larger than an upper limit value of the second range.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the converting unit converts the other value based on one value of luminance values described separately in the adjustment command received by the receiving unit.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the converting unit sets one value of luminance values described separately in the adjustment command received by the receiving unit to the other value.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the conversion unit converts the luminance value by exchanging luminance values described separately in the adjustment command received by the receiving unit. Luminance value described when inserting the infrared blocking filter into the optical path in the adjustment command from the luminance value described when extracting the infrared blocking filter from the optical path in the adjustment command received by the receiving means Further comprising a luminance value determining means for determining whether or not the
The said conversion means converts the other value based on one value, when it determines with the said luminance value determination means not being large, The any one of Claim 6 thru | or 8 characterized by the above-mentioned. Imaging device.   The brightness value can be described in common in each of the adjustment command when the infrared cutoff filter is inserted into the optical path and when the infrared cutoff filter is removed from the optical path. The imaging apparatus of Claim 1.   11. The imaging apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the conversion unit converts the luminance value when the luminance value is described separately in the adjustment command. It further comprises a description determining means for determining whether the brightness value is described separately or in common in the adjustment command,
11. The imaging apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the conversion unit converts luminance values described separately in the adjustment command when the description determination unit determines that the description is described separately. . An imaging device that communicates with an external device via a network,
An imaging optical system;
Imaging means for capturing an image of a subject imaged by the imaging optical system;
An infrared blocking filter that blocks infrared;
Insertion / removal means for inserting / removing the infrared blocking filter into / from the optical path of the imaging optical system;
An adjustment command in which a luminance value related to the luminance of the subject can be described, and the luminance value for each of the case where the infrared blocking filter is inserted into the optical path and the case where the infrared blocking filter is removed from the optical path. Receiving means for receiving adjustment commands that can be described separately from the external device via a network;
Luminance value described when inserting the infrared blocking filter into the optical path in the adjustment command from the luminance value described when extracting the infrared blocking filter from the optical path in the adjustment command received by the receiving means Brightness value determining means for determining whether or not the
Transmitting means for transmitting information indicating an error to the external device via a network when the brightness value determining means determines that the brightness value is not large;
Control means for controlling the insertion / removal means based on the adjustment command received by the receiving means;
An imaging apparatus comprising: An imaging optical system, an imaging unit that captures an image of a subject formed by the imaging optical system, an infrared blocking filter that blocks infrared rays, and an insertion / removal that inserts and removes the infrared blocking filter in the optical path of the imaging optical system A luminance value determination for determining a magnitude of a luminance value described in the adjustment command received by the receiving unit, a receiving unit that receives an adjustment command in which a luminance value related to the luminance of the subject can be described And a control unit that controls the insertion / removal unit based on the adjustment command received by the reception unit, and a transmission unit that transmits information indicating an error when the luminance value determination unit determines that the value is not large An external device that communicates with an imaging device having a network via a network,
The brightness value can be described separately for each of the case where the infrared cutoff filter is inserted into the optical path and the case where the infrared cutoff filter is removed from the optical path, and is extracted in the adjustment command. An adjustment command necessary for the brightness value determination unit to determine whether or not the brightness value described in the case of insertion in the adjustment command is larger than the brightness value described in the case of the adjustment command to the imaging device via the network Delivery means for delivery;
Receiving means for receiving information indicating an error transmitted by the transmission unit from the imaging device via a network;
An external device comprising: An imaging system comprising an imaging device and an external device that communicates with the imaging device via a network,
The imaging device
An imaging optical system;
Imaging means for capturing an image of a subject imaged by the imaging optical system;
An infrared blocking filter that blocks infrared;
Insertion / removal means for inserting / removing the infrared blocking filter into / from the optical path of the imaging optical system;
Receiving means for receiving an adjustment command capable of describing a luminance value related to the luminance of the subject from the external device via a network;
Conversion means for converting a luminance value described in the adjustment command received by the reception means;
Control means for controlling the insertion / removal means based on the luminance value converted by the conversion means,
The external device is
The adjustment command, wherein the brightness value can be described separately for each of the case where the infrared cutoff filter is inserted into the optical path and the case where the infrared cutoff filter is removed from the optical path, A transmission means for transmitting to the imaging device via a network;
With
The converting means converts the brightness value described separately in the adjustment command received by the receiving means, thereby converting the brightness value described in the case of insertion in the adjustment command into the adjusted value. An imaging system, wherein a luminance value described in the case of extraction in a command is made larger than a converted value. An imaging system comprising an imaging device and an external device that communicates with the imaging device via a network,
The imaging device
An imaging optical system;
Imaging means for capturing an image of a subject imaged by the imaging optical system;
An infrared blocking filter that blocks infrared;
Insertion / removal means for inserting / removing the infrared blocking filter into / from the optical path of the imaging optical system;
Receiving means for receiving an adjustment command capable of describing a luminance value related to the luminance of the subject from the external device via a network;
Control means for controlling the insertion / removal means based on the adjustment command received by the receiving means;
With
The external device is
The adjustment command, wherein the brightness value can be described separately for each of the case where the infrared cutoff filter is inserted into the optical path and the case where the infrared cutoff filter is removed from the optical path, A transmission means for transmitting to the imaging device via a network;
With
The imaging device further includes:
Luminance value described when inserting the infrared blocking filter into the optical path in the adjustment command from the luminance value described when extracting the infrared blocking filter from the optical path in the adjustment command received by the receiving means Brightness value determining means for determining whether or not the
A reply unit that returns information indicating an error to the external device via a network when the brightness value determining unit determines that the luminance value is not large;
An imaging system comprising: An imaging optical system, an imaging unit that captures an image of a subject formed by the imaging optical system, an infrared blocking filter that blocks infrared rays, and an insertion / removal that inserts and removes the infrared blocking filter in the optical path of the imaging optical system And a program for controlling an imaging device that communicates with an external device via a network,
An adjustment command in which a luminance value related to the luminance of the subject can be described, and the luminance value for each of the case where the infrared blocking filter is inserted into the optical path and the case where the infrared blocking filter is removed from the optical path. Receiving a coordination command that can be described separately from the external device via a network;
By converting the brightness value described separately in the adjustment command received in the receiving step, the value converted from the brightness value described in the case of insertion in the adjustment command is extracted in the adjustment command. A conversion step in which the luminance value described for the case is greater than the converted value;
A program that causes a computer to execute a control step of controlling the insertion / removal unit based on the value converted in the conversion step. An imaging optical system, an imaging unit that captures an image of a subject formed by the imaging optical system, an infrared blocking filter that blocks infrared rays, and an insertion / removal that inserts and removes the infrared blocking filter in the optical path of the imaging optical system And a program for controlling an imaging device that communicates with an external device via a network,
An adjustment command in which a luminance value related to the luminance of the subject can be described, and the luminance value for each of the case where the infrared blocking filter is inserted into the optical path and the case where the infrared blocking filter is removed from the optical path. Receiving a coordination command that can be described separately from the external device via a network;
Luminance described when inserting the infrared blocking filter into the optical path in the adjustment command from the luminance value described when extracting the infrared blocking filter from the optical path in the adjustment command received in the receiving step A luminance value determining step for determining whether or not the value is large;
A transmission step of transmitting information indicating an error to the external device via a network when it is determined that the luminance value determination step is not large;
A control step for controlling the insertion / removal unit based on the adjustment command received in the reception step;
A program that causes a computer to execute. An imaging optical system, an imaging unit that captures an image of a subject formed by the imaging optical system, an infrared blocking filter that blocks infrared rays, and an insertion / removal that inserts and removes the infrared blocking filter in the optical path of the imaging optical system A luminance value determination for determining a magnitude of a luminance value described in the adjustment command received by the receiving unit, a receiving unit that receives an adjustment command in which a luminance value related to the luminance of the subject can be described And a control unit that controls the insertion / removal unit based on the adjustment command received by the reception unit, and a transmission unit that transmits information indicating an error when the luminance value determination unit determines that the value is not large And a program for controlling an imaging device having an external device that communicates via a network,
The brightness value can be described separately for each of the case where the infrared cutoff filter is inserted into the optical path and the case where the infrared cutoff filter is removed from the optical path, and is extracted in the adjustment command. An adjustment command necessary for the brightness value determination unit to determine whether or not the brightness value described in the case of insertion in the adjustment command is larger than the brightness value described in the case of the adjustment command to the imaging device via the network A delivery step to deliver;
A reception step of receiving information indicating an error transmitted by the transmission unit from the imaging device via a network;
A program that causes a computer to execute. An imaging optical system, an imaging unit that captures an image of a subject formed by the imaging optical system, an infrared blocking filter that blocks infrared rays, and an insertion / removal unit that inserts and removes the infrared blocking filter in the optical path of the imaging optical system A program for controlling an imaging system including an imaging device having an external device that communicates with the imaging device via a network,
In the imaging device,
Receiving an adjustment command capable of describing a luminance value related to the luminance of the subject from the external device via a network;
A conversion step of converting the luminance value described in the adjustment command received in the reception step;
A control step of controlling the insertion / removal unit based on the luminance value converted in the conversion step;
To the computer,
In the external device,
The adjustment command, wherein the brightness value can be described separately for each of the case where the infrared cutoff filter is inserted into the optical path and the case where the infrared cutoff filter is removed from the optical path, A transmission step for transmitting to the imaging device via a network;
To the computer,
The conversion step converts the brightness value described separately in the adjustment command received in the reception step, thereby converting the brightness value described in the case of insertion in the adjustment command into the adjustment value. A program characterized in that a luminance value described in the case of extraction in a command is made larger than a converted value. An imaging optical system, an imaging unit that captures an image of a subject formed by the imaging optical system, an infrared blocking filter that blocks infrared rays, and an insertion / removal unit that inserts and removes the infrared blocking filter in the optical path of the imaging optical system A program for controlling an imaging system including an imaging device having an external device that communicates with the imaging device via a network,
In the imaging device,
Receiving an adjustment command capable of describing a luminance value related to the luminance of the subject from the external device via a network;
A control step for controlling the insertion / removal unit based on the adjustment command received in the reception step;
To the computer,
In the external device,
The adjustment command, wherein the brightness value can be described separately for each of the case where the infrared cutoff filter is inserted into the optical path and the case where the infrared cutoff filter is removed from the optical path, A transmission step for transmitting to the imaging device via a network;
To the computer,
In the imaging device,
Luminance described when inserting the infrared blocking filter into the optical path in the adjustment command from the luminance value described when extracting the infrared blocking filter from the optical path in the adjustment command received in the receiving step A luminance value determining step for determining whether or not the value is large;
A reply step of returning information indicating an error to the external device via a network when it is determined that the brightness value determination step is not large;
A program that causes a computer to execute.

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