CA2712528A1 - Camera installation device - Google Patents
Camera installation device Download PDFInfo
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- CA2712528A1 CA2712528A1 CA2712528A CA2712528A CA2712528A1 CA 2712528 A1 CA2712528 A1 CA 2712528A1 CA 2712528 A CA2712528 A CA 2712528A CA 2712528 A CA2712528 A CA 2712528A CA 2712528 A1 CA2712528 A1 CA 2712528A1
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- Prior art keywords
- camera
- recited
- cameras
- installation
- file
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N7/00—Television systems
- H04N7/18—Closed-circuit television [CCTV] systems, i.e. systems in which the video signal is not broadcast
- H04N7/183—Closed-circuit television [CCTV] systems, i.e. systems in which the video signal is not broadcast for receiving images from a single remote source
- H04N7/185—Closed-circuit television [CCTV] systems, i.e. systems in which the video signal is not broadcast for receiving images from a single remote source from a mobile camera, e.g. for remote control
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N23/00—Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensors; Control thereof
- H04N23/60—Control of cameras or camera modules
- H04N23/617—Upgrading or updating of programs or applications for camera control
Abstract
A device, either held in the hand or worn around the neck, utilized for installation of Internet Protocol (IP) cameras used for surveillance, security, and machine vision. The device allows a user to enumerate, connect to, upgrade, and configure cameras. It enables a user to view the results of focusing, zooming, and aiming actions that they perform during installation of the camera. The device can exchange files with a host computer - these files may contain information on specific configuration parameters to be uploaded during camera installation, as well as information on the camera's status at the completion of the installation process.
Description
Camera Installation Device Background Of The Invention There are many environmental and technological challenges faced when installing security, surveillance, and machine vision cameras which use Internet Protocol(IP)-based communications ("IP cameras"), as opposed to traditional cameras, which use analog communication methods such as NTSC or PAL.
The installer is not typically employed by the purchaser/end user of the cameras ("customer").
Thus, the customer's IT department typically refuses all requests to connect unapproved devices -for example a laptop used by the installer - to the network; this is done to prevent viruses or other security threats from entering the network.
The installer is typically not knowledgeable about IP networking. Installers of IP cameras are required to program the cameras with IP network information, such as the camera's IP address, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS server. Not only does this requirement impose additional required effort on the part of the installer, but also presents a significant opportunity for data entry error. If the installer is not knowledgeable about IP networking, they will experience difficulties troubleshooting the camera's network setup.
Cameras are typically required to be installed on a ceiling or on a pole, necessitating that the installer employ a ladder or other lifting device. Cameras are required to be focused, zoomed, and aimed before installation can be considered complete. Because the installer employs a ladder or lifting device to install and configure the camera, there is a risk that they may fall or otherwise injure themselves. Thus, installers in the process of installing and configuring cameras cannot use a laptop or other similar device to display visual feedback on the configuration process, as they would need to balance such a device, while simultaneously balancing themselves and configuring the camera -this increases their risk of injury.
IP cameras connect to a network using Ethernet (IEEE 802.3), via an RJ45 connection. Because of this, handheld devices on the market today cannot be employed, as they do not have a built-in Ethernet port (nor are add-on devices available). Handheld devices on the market also do not typically support software which can communicate with 1P cameras for the purposes of installation and configuration.
IP cameras are typically powered via an IEEE 802.3af or IEEE802.3at - more commonly known as Power over Ethernet, or "PoE" - compliant network switch, as a connection to mains power is not available at the camera location; it is typically not economically feasible to run a dedicated cable for power to each camera. This power is applied to the camera via a single RJ45 jack, which is also the connector used for network connectivity. Because of this, and because installation devices are typically forbidden to be connected to customer networks, installers will typically need to power IP
cameras temporarily from mains power, potentially using extension cords, while installing and configuring the IP camera - using the IP camera's RJ45 jack to connect to an installation device, such as a laptop. The fact that the camera is powered temporarily by connecting it to mains power presents additional cost, effort, and risk to the installer.
IP cameras maintain a set of configuration parameters including, but not limited to image resolution, frame rate, network configuration (IP address, subnet mask, gateway), configuration password, Video Motion Detection (VMD) configuration, Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) configuration, and firmware version. Installers are required to configure each parameter on the camera, which increases their workload, and presents opportunities for data entry error.
IP cameras today generally employ different application-layer protocols.
Generally, each camera manufacturer employs its own proprietary protocol; some manufacturers utilize a different proprietary protocol per camera family. While most manufacturers are members of such standards bodies as ONVIF and PSIA, adoption of those protocols by the manufacturers is minimal, since manufacturers which have significant market share can achieve financial benefit from utilization of a proprietary protocol. Because cameras from each manufacturer may have different strengths, it is often required to install cameras from multiple manufacturers at a single location.
As 1P cameras typically are configured to use an existing corporate network, IT departments demand an information packet, complete with detailed information on the installed IP
cameras. Installers of IP cameras need to record the network configuration information (MAC address, IP address, subnet mask, gateway, etc.), as well as camera configuration parameters such as frame rate, resolution, firmware version, and so on, including a snapshot of the camera's Field of View (FOV) at the time of its installation.
The installer is not typically employed by the purchaser/end user of the cameras ("customer").
Thus, the customer's IT department typically refuses all requests to connect unapproved devices -for example a laptop used by the installer - to the network; this is done to prevent viruses or other security threats from entering the network.
The installer is typically not knowledgeable about IP networking. Installers of IP cameras are required to program the cameras with IP network information, such as the camera's IP address, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS server. Not only does this requirement impose additional required effort on the part of the installer, but also presents a significant opportunity for data entry error. If the installer is not knowledgeable about IP networking, they will experience difficulties troubleshooting the camera's network setup.
Cameras are typically required to be installed on a ceiling or on a pole, necessitating that the installer employ a ladder or other lifting device. Cameras are required to be focused, zoomed, and aimed before installation can be considered complete. Because the installer employs a ladder or lifting device to install and configure the camera, there is a risk that they may fall or otherwise injure themselves. Thus, installers in the process of installing and configuring cameras cannot use a laptop or other similar device to display visual feedback on the configuration process, as they would need to balance such a device, while simultaneously balancing themselves and configuring the camera -this increases their risk of injury.
IP cameras connect to a network using Ethernet (IEEE 802.3), via an RJ45 connection. Because of this, handheld devices on the market today cannot be employed, as they do not have a built-in Ethernet port (nor are add-on devices available). Handheld devices on the market also do not typically support software which can communicate with 1P cameras for the purposes of installation and configuration.
IP cameras are typically powered via an IEEE 802.3af or IEEE802.3at - more commonly known as Power over Ethernet, or "PoE" - compliant network switch, as a connection to mains power is not available at the camera location; it is typically not economically feasible to run a dedicated cable for power to each camera. This power is applied to the camera via a single RJ45 jack, which is also the connector used for network connectivity. Because of this, and because installation devices are typically forbidden to be connected to customer networks, installers will typically need to power IP
cameras temporarily from mains power, potentially using extension cords, while installing and configuring the IP camera - using the IP camera's RJ45 jack to connect to an installation device, such as a laptop. The fact that the camera is powered temporarily by connecting it to mains power presents additional cost, effort, and risk to the installer.
IP cameras maintain a set of configuration parameters including, but not limited to image resolution, frame rate, network configuration (IP address, subnet mask, gateway), configuration password, Video Motion Detection (VMD) configuration, Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) configuration, and firmware version. Installers are required to configure each parameter on the camera, which increases their workload, and presents opportunities for data entry error.
IP cameras today generally employ different application-layer protocols.
Generally, each camera manufacturer employs its own proprietary protocol; some manufacturers utilize a different proprietary protocol per camera family. While most manufacturers are members of such standards bodies as ONVIF and PSIA, adoption of those protocols by the manufacturers is minimal, since manufacturers which have significant market share can achieve financial benefit from utilization of a proprietary protocol. Because cameras from each manufacturer may have different strengths, it is often required to install cameras from multiple manufacturers at a single location.
As 1P cameras typically are configured to use an existing corporate network, IT departments demand an information packet, complete with detailed information on the installed IP
cameras. Installers of IP cameras need to record the network configuration information (MAC address, IP address, subnet mask, gateway, etc.), as well as camera configuration parameters such as frame rate, resolution, firmware version, and so on, including a snapshot of the camera's Field of View (FOV) at the time of its installation.
Description Of Prior Art It is known in the prior art to provide a device which allows for easy viewing of a camera's field of view (US patent 6,819,867). However this device cannot be employed in the same markets as the invention, nor does it communicate with a plurality of cameras via Internet Protocol (1P).
An example of a device which provides PoE passthrough is the PinpointTM
product developed by VeracityTM. However this device does not reduce the complexities of IP
networking, and requires a laptop. Use of a laptop while the installer is on a ladder is not safe.
A device which is well used in the surveillance video market is a handheld analog monitor. While these monitors enable safe installation of analog cameras, they cannot be used with IP cameras, which are substantially different from analog cameras from a communications and interfacing point of view.
A handheld device which can be used to install IP cameras is the T8412TM from Axis CommunicationsTM. This device however, cannot communicate with IP cameras from a plurality of manufacturers - only those produced by Axis. Additionally, use of the device requires significant knowledge of IP networking, does not allow for pre-loading of camera configurations, does not create post-installation reports, and is not suitable for hands-free operation.
It is apparent from the foregoing that the prior art fails to teach, or even suggest, a device designed to aid in safe installation of IP cameras from a plurality of manufacturers, possessing a PoE
passthrough connection, reducing camera and network complexities, and providing post-installation reporting information.
Summary Of The Invention The invention is used while installing Internet Protocol (IP) based cameras ("IP cameras"), with either built-in or add-on lenses, used in such fields as surveillance, security, or machine vision. The device provides built-in capabilities to ease the installation and reporting process, as installers of such cameras typically do not have a high degree of technical knowledge. To combat the challenges listed above, the device presents a number of unique features.
The device is handheld and can also be worn around the neck, is powered either by an internal battery or via mains power, and contains built-in non-volatile memory. When aiming, zooming, and focusing a camera and lens while on a ladder or other lifting device, it is imperative that the installer not be required to hold a laptop or other heavy device to view the output of the camera. This helps ensure installer safety, as it reduces the risk of the installer falling.
The resolution of the camera may greatly exceed the resolution of the device's display. To allow the installer to ensure that the camera is focused correctly, the installer can command the device to digitally zoom the image shown on the display. This capability is especially important when the installer is configuring a camera with a resolution greater than 0.4 megapixels.
The device provides a PoE passthrough connection. The connection ensures that power can pass from the PoE switch on the customer network to the camera, while simultaneously allowing for the device to establish a direct connection to the camera. Because only the power is passed from the switch to the camera, from a networking point of view the device itself is not considered to be logically connected to the customer's network. The passthrough functionality complies with the IEEE 802.3af or IEEE 802.3at standards, and is implemented in two stages.
First, the device is connected to a PoE switch via a RJ45 jack. This jack is connected to circuitry to receive the power provided by the PoE switch (in terms of the IEEE802.3af/at standards, the device acts as a Powered Device, or PD), but the PHY chip is not connected to the device - this ensures that no network connectivity can occur via this jack. Next, the device is connected to an IP
camera via a second RJ45 jack. This second jack serves as, in IEEE 802.3af/at terms, power sourcing equipment (PSE).
This jack utilizes the power provided by the first jack to power the IP camera connected to the second. In contrast to the first jack, the second jack is connected to an Ethernet physical layer chip, enabling full network communication between the device and the IP camera.
The device is compatible with a plurality of IP camera protocols. Cameras can be discovered on the network, can be configured, and their video output can be tested regardless of the manufacturer-specific protocol employed by the camera. The specific protocol utilized by the camera is abstracted from the user - the user need not perform any actions specific to the protocol, as details for and video from each camera is presented to the user in the same format. The device contains information regarding the protocol utilized by each camera manufacturer. The device first sends out several discovery messages, in an attempt to determine the type of camera which it is connected to.
These messages may use either a manufacturer-specific protocol, or an industry standard discovery protocol such as the Bonjour protocol. Once the installer selects a camera from the list of cameras discovered by the device, the device utilizes the protocol used by the chosen IP camera for all subsequent communications. Note that in the typical use case where the device is connected directly to a single IP camera, there will be at most 1 camera in this list.
The device reduces the complexities of IP networking and of the camera's internal settings, by automatically configuring cameras with pre-set parameters. These parameters are chosen by the customer's IP department, or network-savvy personnel employed by the technician's company, and uploaded to the device from a host PC. The parameters are transferred in a prescribed file format, and the device stores these parameters in its onboard non-volatile memory. In order for two network devices to communicate with each other, they must be on the same logical network. When the device is required to communicate with a camera which is outside of its logical network, it reconfigures its own IP address and subnet mask to match that of the camera -alternatively, both devices can use Link Local Addressing (LLA).
The device offers the ability for the user to capture still images from the camera. These images are used by the installer in his report, to demonstrate that the camera is focused, and its field of view is as required. Images captured are stored in the device's onboard non-volatile memory.
Once installation is complete, the device generates a report which is downloaded to a host PC - this report contains information about the cameras installed, including configuration, status - such as the current bitrate of the configured video stream, the camera's firmware version, and snapshots of the camera's field of view. This report is transferred to the host PC either via network connection to the PC, or via a memory stick or memory card.
It can thus be seen that the invention is a novel device which enables installers to easily and safely install 1P cameras.
Brief Description Of The Drawings FIG. 1 is a top view of the invention, highlighting the connectors;
FIG. 2 is a frontal view of the invention, highlighting the user interface;
FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the invention, including a strap used to attach the invention to a user's neck;
FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the invention, demonstrating how a user could wear the device around their neck;
FIG. 5 is a screenshot of the software package used to create a IP camera configuration data file, which is uploaded to the device from a host PC.
FIG. 6 is a screenshot of the UI on the device, specifically the main menu.
FIG. 7 is a screenshot of the UI on the device, specifically camera detection screen.
FIG. 8 is a screenshot of the UI on the device, specifically the live video display screen.
FIG. 9 is a flow diagram, illustrating the process of generating the IP camera configuration data file.
FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating the process of IP camera and lens installation and configuration.
FIG. 11 is a system-level diagram, showing the connections that exist during the camera installation and configuration process.
Description Of The Preferred Embodiment With reference to the drawings, the device consists of a housing, indicated at 1, connectors as indicated at 2, 3, 4, and 5, a screen indicated at 6, buttons to control the user interface as indicated at 7, 8, and 9, and an optional strap indicated at 10.
As depicted in FIG. 1, connectors are housed at the top of the device. These connectors provide all data input and output, as well as power. To enable communication between the device and a host PC, the device provides a Universal Serial Bus (USB) or Secure Digital (SD) port, as shown at 2.
This port is used to transfer camera configuration data from the host PC to the device, and to offload post-installation report data from the device to a host PC.
To provide power to the camera, and to provide data communications between the device and the camera, the device provides a Power over Ethernet (PoE) pass-through connection. The device is connected to a PoE switch via the RJ45 jack indicated at 3. Power is fed from this connector to the RJ45 jack indicated at 4. The jack 4 connects to the IP camera, and provides both power and data communication functionality.
The device also provides a barrel connector for power, indicated at 5. This connector allows primarily for the device's internal battery to be charged, and can also be used to supply power to the device for device operation and battery charging.
The device provides a display screen, indicated at 6, which displays a user-interface (UI). This UI
allows the installer to perform his installation duties, and displays live video from connected IP
cameras. As depicted in FIG. 2, the UI is controlled by the installer via input buttons, such as a key, indicated at 7, to move the selection to the next input box on screen, a set of arrow keys, indicated at 8, to move the selection in a desired direction, and a key, indicated at 9, to indicate that the user approves of the data input.
In practical use, the device can either be held in the hand, or worn around the neck. As depicted in FIG. 3, in order to facilitate the latter use case, the device provides an optional neck strap, indicated at 10. As depicted in FIG. 4, this neck strap allows for the screen to be balanced within the installer's field of view as indicated at 11, so that a camera being installed can be manipulated using both the installer's hands.
In order to reduce the complexities inherent to the installation of IP
cameras, the device allows the installer to upload a pre-built set of parameters such as the camera's IP
configuration, video configuration, MAC address, manufacturer, serial number, and model, which are automatically selected and used during installation. As depicted in FIG. 5, these parameters are captured in a file with a prescribed format; this file is created using the software application shown generally at 12.
This application allows for a user to input configuration sets for a plurality of cameras. The device selects the correct set of camera parameters from the file by matching the manufacturer, indicated at 13, model, indicated at 14, serial number, indicated at 15, and MAC address, indicated at 16, of a detected camera. An indication to the installer as to the desired physical installation location of the camera is also shown, indicated at 33. Once the correct configuration set is selected by the device, the device configures the IP camera with parameters from the file such as its IP network attributes, indicated at 17, 18, and 19, its password, indicated at 20, and its video capture configuration, indicated at 21, 22, 23, and 24.
As depicted in FIG. 11, a user establishes a connection between the device, indicated at 1 and a PoE
switch, indicated at 36, as well as between the device and a camera, indicated at 37. With respect to the connection, indicated at 34 to the PoE switch, power is provided from the switch to the device, but no network activity occurs over this link. The connection between the device and a camera, indicated at 35, is a standard PoE link, where the device provides power to the camera, and network activity between the two occurs.
As depicted in FIG. 6, the installer interacts with a user interface (UI) on the device to perform high-level installation and configuration tasks. The installer can choose to load the configuration parameters file using the button indicated at 25. Once that is complete, the installer will detect each camera to be installed, in turn, by using the button indicated at 26. Once the installation of all cameras is complete, a post-installation report can be generated using the button indicated at 27.
Finally, device settings can be modified by using the button indicated at 28.
As depicted in FIG. 7, if a camera is detected as being connected to the device, the basic information about that camera is displayed, as indicated at 29. The installer can then apply the configuration stored in the configuration file by using the button indicated at 30. The installer can then easily adjust the positioning, focus, zoom, and field of view of the camera and lens, by viewing the live video - this function can be accessed via the button indicated at 31.
As depicted in FIG. 8, live video is shown to the user, indicated at 32, upon request. A snapshot can be generated using the button indicated at 9 on FIG. 2.
FIG. 9 illustrates the method of creating the file containing camera parameters.
FIG. 10 illustrates the method of utilizing the device to install and configure IP cameras.
Although the invention has been described in connection with a preferred embodiment, it should be understood that various modifications, additions and alterations may be made to the invention by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
An example of a device which provides PoE passthrough is the PinpointTM
product developed by VeracityTM. However this device does not reduce the complexities of IP
networking, and requires a laptop. Use of a laptop while the installer is on a ladder is not safe.
A device which is well used in the surveillance video market is a handheld analog monitor. While these monitors enable safe installation of analog cameras, they cannot be used with IP cameras, which are substantially different from analog cameras from a communications and interfacing point of view.
A handheld device which can be used to install IP cameras is the T8412TM from Axis CommunicationsTM. This device however, cannot communicate with IP cameras from a plurality of manufacturers - only those produced by Axis. Additionally, use of the device requires significant knowledge of IP networking, does not allow for pre-loading of camera configurations, does not create post-installation reports, and is not suitable for hands-free operation.
It is apparent from the foregoing that the prior art fails to teach, or even suggest, a device designed to aid in safe installation of IP cameras from a plurality of manufacturers, possessing a PoE
passthrough connection, reducing camera and network complexities, and providing post-installation reporting information.
Summary Of The Invention The invention is used while installing Internet Protocol (IP) based cameras ("IP cameras"), with either built-in or add-on lenses, used in such fields as surveillance, security, or machine vision. The device provides built-in capabilities to ease the installation and reporting process, as installers of such cameras typically do not have a high degree of technical knowledge. To combat the challenges listed above, the device presents a number of unique features.
The device is handheld and can also be worn around the neck, is powered either by an internal battery or via mains power, and contains built-in non-volatile memory. When aiming, zooming, and focusing a camera and lens while on a ladder or other lifting device, it is imperative that the installer not be required to hold a laptop or other heavy device to view the output of the camera. This helps ensure installer safety, as it reduces the risk of the installer falling.
The resolution of the camera may greatly exceed the resolution of the device's display. To allow the installer to ensure that the camera is focused correctly, the installer can command the device to digitally zoom the image shown on the display. This capability is especially important when the installer is configuring a camera with a resolution greater than 0.4 megapixels.
The device provides a PoE passthrough connection. The connection ensures that power can pass from the PoE switch on the customer network to the camera, while simultaneously allowing for the device to establish a direct connection to the camera. Because only the power is passed from the switch to the camera, from a networking point of view the device itself is not considered to be logically connected to the customer's network. The passthrough functionality complies with the IEEE 802.3af or IEEE 802.3at standards, and is implemented in two stages.
First, the device is connected to a PoE switch via a RJ45 jack. This jack is connected to circuitry to receive the power provided by the PoE switch (in terms of the IEEE802.3af/at standards, the device acts as a Powered Device, or PD), but the PHY chip is not connected to the device - this ensures that no network connectivity can occur via this jack. Next, the device is connected to an IP
camera via a second RJ45 jack. This second jack serves as, in IEEE 802.3af/at terms, power sourcing equipment (PSE).
This jack utilizes the power provided by the first jack to power the IP camera connected to the second. In contrast to the first jack, the second jack is connected to an Ethernet physical layer chip, enabling full network communication between the device and the IP camera.
The device is compatible with a plurality of IP camera protocols. Cameras can be discovered on the network, can be configured, and their video output can be tested regardless of the manufacturer-specific protocol employed by the camera. The specific protocol utilized by the camera is abstracted from the user - the user need not perform any actions specific to the protocol, as details for and video from each camera is presented to the user in the same format. The device contains information regarding the protocol utilized by each camera manufacturer. The device first sends out several discovery messages, in an attempt to determine the type of camera which it is connected to.
These messages may use either a manufacturer-specific protocol, or an industry standard discovery protocol such as the Bonjour protocol. Once the installer selects a camera from the list of cameras discovered by the device, the device utilizes the protocol used by the chosen IP camera for all subsequent communications. Note that in the typical use case where the device is connected directly to a single IP camera, there will be at most 1 camera in this list.
The device reduces the complexities of IP networking and of the camera's internal settings, by automatically configuring cameras with pre-set parameters. These parameters are chosen by the customer's IP department, or network-savvy personnel employed by the technician's company, and uploaded to the device from a host PC. The parameters are transferred in a prescribed file format, and the device stores these parameters in its onboard non-volatile memory. In order for two network devices to communicate with each other, they must be on the same logical network. When the device is required to communicate with a camera which is outside of its logical network, it reconfigures its own IP address and subnet mask to match that of the camera -alternatively, both devices can use Link Local Addressing (LLA).
The device offers the ability for the user to capture still images from the camera. These images are used by the installer in his report, to demonstrate that the camera is focused, and its field of view is as required. Images captured are stored in the device's onboard non-volatile memory.
Once installation is complete, the device generates a report which is downloaded to a host PC - this report contains information about the cameras installed, including configuration, status - such as the current bitrate of the configured video stream, the camera's firmware version, and snapshots of the camera's field of view. This report is transferred to the host PC either via network connection to the PC, or via a memory stick or memory card.
It can thus be seen that the invention is a novel device which enables installers to easily and safely install 1P cameras.
Brief Description Of The Drawings FIG. 1 is a top view of the invention, highlighting the connectors;
FIG. 2 is a frontal view of the invention, highlighting the user interface;
FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the invention, including a strap used to attach the invention to a user's neck;
FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the invention, demonstrating how a user could wear the device around their neck;
FIG. 5 is a screenshot of the software package used to create a IP camera configuration data file, which is uploaded to the device from a host PC.
FIG. 6 is a screenshot of the UI on the device, specifically the main menu.
FIG. 7 is a screenshot of the UI on the device, specifically camera detection screen.
FIG. 8 is a screenshot of the UI on the device, specifically the live video display screen.
FIG. 9 is a flow diagram, illustrating the process of generating the IP camera configuration data file.
FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating the process of IP camera and lens installation and configuration.
FIG. 11 is a system-level diagram, showing the connections that exist during the camera installation and configuration process.
Description Of The Preferred Embodiment With reference to the drawings, the device consists of a housing, indicated at 1, connectors as indicated at 2, 3, 4, and 5, a screen indicated at 6, buttons to control the user interface as indicated at 7, 8, and 9, and an optional strap indicated at 10.
As depicted in FIG. 1, connectors are housed at the top of the device. These connectors provide all data input and output, as well as power. To enable communication between the device and a host PC, the device provides a Universal Serial Bus (USB) or Secure Digital (SD) port, as shown at 2.
This port is used to transfer camera configuration data from the host PC to the device, and to offload post-installation report data from the device to a host PC.
To provide power to the camera, and to provide data communications between the device and the camera, the device provides a Power over Ethernet (PoE) pass-through connection. The device is connected to a PoE switch via the RJ45 jack indicated at 3. Power is fed from this connector to the RJ45 jack indicated at 4. The jack 4 connects to the IP camera, and provides both power and data communication functionality.
The device also provides a barrel connector for power, indicated at 5. This connector allows primarily for the device's internal battery to be charged, and can also be used to supply power to the device for device operation and battery charging.
The device provides a display screen, indicated at 6, which displays a user-interface (UI). This UI
allows the installer to perform his installation duties, and displays live video from connected IP
cameras. As depicted in FIG. 2, the UI is controlled by the installer via input buttons, such as a key, indicated at 7, to move the selection to the next input box on screen, a set of arrow keys, indicated at 8, to move the selection in a desired direction, and a key, indicated at 9, to indicate that the user approves of the data input.
In practical use, the device can either be held in the hand, or worn around the neck. As depicted in FIG. 3, in order to facilitate the latter use case, the device provides an optional neck strap, indicated at 10. As depicted in FIG. 4, this neck strap allows for the screen to be balanced within the installer's field of view as indicated at 11, so that a camera being installed can be manipulated using both the installer's hands.
In order to reduce the complexities inherent to the installation of IP
cameras, the device allows the installer to upload a pre-built set of parameters such as the camera's IP
configuration, video configuration, MAC address, manufacturer, serial number, and model, which are automatically selected and used during installation. As depicted in FIG. 5, these parameters are captured in a file with a prescribed format; this file is created using the software application shown generally at 12.
This application allows for a user to input configuration sets for a plurality of cameras. The device selects the correct set of camera parameters from the file by matching the manufacturer, indicated at 13, model, indicated at 14, serial number, indicated at 15, and MAC address, indicated at 16, of a detected camera. An indication to the installer as to the desired physical installation location of the camera is also shown, indicated at 33. Once the correct configuration set is selected by the device, the device configures the IP camera with parameters from the file such as its IP network attributes, indicated at 17, 18, and 19, its password, indicated at 20, and its video capture configuration, indicated at 21, 22, 23, and 24.
As depicted in FIG. 11, a user establishes a connection between the device, indicated at 1 and a PoE
switch, indicated at 36, as well as between the device and a camera, indicated at 37. With respect to the connection, indicated at 34 to the PoE switch, power is provided from the switch to the device, but no network activity occurs over this link. The connection between the device and a camera, indicated at 35, is a standard PoE link, where the device provides power to the camera, and network activity between the two occurs.
As depicted in FIG. 6, the installer interacts with a user interface (UI) on the device to perform high-level installation and configuration tasks. The installer can choose to load the configuration parameters file using the button indicated at 25. Once that is complete, the installer will detect each camera to be installed, in turn, by using the button indicated at 26. Once the installation of all cameras is complete, a post-installation report can be generated using the button indicated at 27.
Finally, device settings can be modified by using the button indicated at 28.
As depicted in FIG. 7, if a camera is detected as being connected to the device, the basic information about that camera is displayed, as indicated at 29. The installer can then apply the configuration stored in the configuration file by using the button indicated at 30. The installer can then easily adjust the positioning, focus, zoom, and field of view of the camera and lens, by viewing the live video - this function can be accessed via the button indicated at 31.
As depicted in FIG. 8, live video is shown to the user, indicated at 32, upon request. A snapshot can be generated using the button indicated at 9 on FIG. 2.
FIG. 9 illustrates the method of creating the file containing camera parameters.
FIG. 10 illustrates the method of utilizing the device to install and configure IP cameras.
Although the invention has been described in connection with a preferred embodiment, it should be understood that various modifications, additions and alterations may be made to the invention by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
Claims (17)
1. A device for installation of IP cameras, which has a connector used to establishes a connection to an IP camera, a means to automatically configure the connected IP camera by utilizing pre-built camera configuration parameters uploaded to the device from a host PC, a means to produce post-install report data, and a display to show live video from the connected IP camera.
2. The device recited in claim 1 wherein the device is a handheld device.
3. The device recited in claim 1 wherein the device indicates to the user the desired physical location of the camera.
4. The device recited in claim 1 wherein the device can be connected to a neck strap, such that the device's display is positioned within a user's field of view.
5. The device recited in claim 1 wherein the device is powered by a rechargeable internal battery.
6. The device recited in claim 1 wherein the device is powered by mains power.
7. The device recited in claim I wherein the post-install report data includes at least one of:
snapshots of each installed camera's field of view, the current bitrate of the video stream, and camera's firmware version.
snapshots of each installed camera's field of view, the current bitrate of the video stream, and camera's firmware version.
8. The device recited in claim 7 wherein the device contains an onboard non-volatile memory, suitable for storage of the camera configuration parameters, and post-install report data.
9. The device recited in claim 1 wherein the device is connected to both a PoE
switch and to an IP camera, for the purposes of passing through power from the switch to the camera, in a manner compliant with IEEE 802.3af or IEEE 802.3at standards.
switch and to an IP camera, for the purposes of passing through power from the switch to the camera, in a manner compliant with IEEE 802.3af or IEEE 802.3at standards.
10. The device recited in claim 1 wherein the device provides a jack to receive power from a switch in a manner compliant with IEEE 802.3af or IEEE 802.3at standards, but which does not provide an Ethernet connection to that switch.
11. The device recited in claim 1 wherein the device is able to communicate with IP cameras using a plurality of IP camera protocols.
12. The device recited in claim 1 wherein the live video from the connected IP
camera has a resolution greater than 0.4 megapixels.
camera has a resolution greater than 0.4 megapixels.
13. The device recited in claim 1 wherein the live video displayed on the device can be digitally zoomed.
14. A method of configuring an IP camera characterized by:
inputting a set of configuration data into a file;
transferring the file to a device for configuring IP cameras;
establishing a connection between the device and an IP camera;
determining the correct configuration data set to download to the IP camera by matching the IP camera's MAC address with an entry in the file;
downloading the configuration data from the file to the IP camera;
attaching a lens to the IP camera if the IP camera does not have a built-in lens;
viewing live video from the IP camera on a display on the device;
configuring the lens of the IP camera using the live video as a reference;
generating a file consisting of a still image taken from the live video;
generating a file consisting of post-installation information.
inputting a set of configuration data into a file;
transferring the file to a device for configuring IP cameras;
establishing a connection between the device and an IP camera;
determining the correct configuration data set to download to the IP camera by matching the IP camera's MAC address with an entry in the file;
downloading the configuration data from the file to the IP camera;
attaching a lens to the IP camera if the IP camera does not have a built-in lens;
viewing live video from the IP camera on a display on the device;
configuring the lens of the IP camera using the live video as a reference;
generating a file consisting of a still image taken from the live video;
generating a file consisting of post-installation information.
15. A method of configuring a plurality of IP cameras by iterating the method recited in claim 14 for each IP camera.
16. A method as recited in any one of claim 14 and claim 15 wherein the post-installation information includes at least one of: snapshots of each installed camera's field of view, the current bitrate of the video stream, and camera's firmware version.
17. A system designed for installation of IP cameras consisting of a computer with a program to generate IP camera configuration data sets, and a device as recited in any one of claims 1-13.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2712528A CA2712528A1 (en) | 2010-08-19 | 2010-08-19 | Camera installation device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2712528A CA2712528A1 (en) | 2010-08-19 | 2010-08-19 | Camera installation device |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2712528A1 true CA2712528A1 (en) | 2012-02-19 |
Family
ID=45724115
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2712528A Abandoned CA2712528A1 (en) | 2010-08-19 | 2010-08-19 | Camera installation device |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2712528A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN104243541A (en) * | 2013-06-19 | 2014-12-24 | 友讯科技股份有限公司 | Network camera with network repeater function and setting method thereof |
| CN109151407A (en) * | 2018-11-05 | 2019-01-04 | 郑州市景安网络科技股份有限公司 | A kind of video data acquiring system |
| CN109286797A (en) * | 2018-12-14 | 2019-01-29 | 中通服公众信息产业股份有限公司 | A kind of device of convenient setting camera national standard information |
-
2010
- 2010-08-19 CA CA2712528A patent/CA2712528A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN104243541A (en) * | 2013-06-19 | 2014-12-24 | 友讯科技股份有限公司 | Network camera with network repeater function and setting method thereof |
| TWI504292B (en) * | 2013-06-19 | 2015-10-11 | D Link Corp | Network camera with network repeater function and its setting method |
| CN104243541B (en) * | 2013-06-19 | 2017-09-22 | 友讯科技股份有限公司 | Setting method of network camera with network repeater function |
| CN109151407A (en) * | 2018-11-05 | 2019-01-04 | 郑州市景安网络科技股份有限公司 | A kind of video data acquiring system |
| CN109151407B (en) * | 2018-11-05 | 2020-11-06 | 郑州市景安网络科技股份有限公司 | Video data acquisition system |
| CN109286797A (en) * | 2018-12-14 | 2019-01-29 | 中通服公众信息产业股份有限公司 | A kind of device of convenient setting camera national standard information |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20150819 |