GB2380890A

GB2380890A - Remote-control camera using radio frequency data transmission

Info

Publication number: GB2380890A
Application number: GB0205579A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Peter Remmert
Original assignee: HPR SOLUTIONS
Current assignee: HPR SOLUTIONS
Priority date: 2001-10-09
Filing date: 2002-03-11
Publication date: 2003-04-16
Also published as: GB0205579D0

Abstract

A remote-control camera unit includes a network transceiver to enable communication of information via radio frequency (RF) transmission. Access rights may be granted to single or multiple users in order that they may exclusive authority to operate the device. The camera unit is mobile and is designed to be waterproof and resistant to high temperatures. The camera may be arranged to use infrared motion detection in order to operate in darkness. As the camera unit is able to transmit data via RF transmission, the unit may also be tasked to act as a radio relay in order to pass on information or data received from other units.

Description

RADIO FREQUENCY REMOTE CONTROL CAMERA WITH A NETWORK TRANSMITTER AND RECEIVER.

This invention relates to a radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver.

A camera observation system (CCTV) closed circuit television is a well-known system that operates by wires and transmits to a restricted set of receivers.

This comprises of an image source (camera), a means of image transport (cables), and a fixed location where the images can be displayed (a control room).

This type of system is limited because the images can be only seen and controlled from a fixed point. The operator is confined to this location or control centre.

Moreover the images of this system are of a format or media to make it difficult to redistribute to other locations, or redisplay by other means in"real time".

The operator or controller is tasked to provide"verbal"descriptions and instructions to co-ordinate other operatives when an urgent response is required.

The radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver is mobile; can operate autonomously or in conjunction with another network; as a master unit it can support additional external cameras or"slave units" ; can operate in total darkness by using infrared motion detection or digital signal processing; can operate at considerable distances from its host network; can act as a"radio relay"to transmit images and data to operators with computer related devices when normal connection methods are impractical; and has the ability to send and receive computer network traffic while the function and operation of this device can be controlled by a single or multiple users who have been granted access rights within this network; and for external requirements can be waterproof as well as able to operate in extreme high and low temperature environments.

A specific embodiment of the invention covered in models marked as MK1, MK2, and MK3 will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which :- Figure I shows an isometric view of the complete unit. (MK1) Figure 2 shows a plan view with the enclosure lid removed. (MK1) Figure 3 shows an isometric internal view with the enclosure lid removed. (MK1) Figure 4 shows an underside view with the camera housing (dome) removed. (MK1)

Figure 5 shows an Isometric view of the complete unit (MK3) Figure 6 shows an isometric view of the complete unit. (MK3) Figure 7 shows an isometric view with the enclosure lid and sides removed. (MK3) Figure 8 shows an isometric rear internal view with the enclosure cover removed.

(MK3) Figure 9 shows an isometric view with the enclosure lid and sides removed. (MK3) Figure 10 shows an isometric view of the complete unit. (MK2) Figure 11 shows an isometric view of the cor. pete unit. (MK2) Figure 12 shows an isometric internal view with the enclosure cover removed. (MK2) Figure 13 shows an isometric rear internal view with the enclosure cover removed.

(MK3) Figure 14 shows an isometric and rear view of the air conditioner unit (MK3) Figure 15 shows a block diagram of the electrical workings. (MK1, MK2 and MK3)

The MK1 was a proof of concept device.

The internal workings of the MK2 and MK3 are identical to the MK1. The main differences between the MK1 and MK3 are the ergonomics and to make a portable unit that is smaller and more desirable from a marketing point. It also has an intelligent fast charger to replenish the backup power in a very short time period.

The MK2 is an external environment unit with on board solid state"air conditioning"and a twin skinned case that provides thermal insulation as well as being waterproof The camera is mounted on anti vibration mounts to protect it during transit.

Referring to the drawings of the MK1, the radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver system is housed within an enclosure Fig 1, item 12 and 13. This in turn can be mounted in the space reserved for a ceiling tile commonly found in suspended ceilings used in large offices and department stores.

With the addition of Fig 3, item 10, a wall bracket adaptor, and Fig 3, item 11, a wall mount bracket, the camera system can be fitted to a wall in the location required.

Additional wall brackets (fig 3, item 11) can be obtained, enabling the user to quickly relocate the camera system to any required place The mechanical coupling is done by

a combination of locating"key hole slots"and"shouldered buttons"found on the mating brackets.

The enclosure is ventilated by means of Fig 3, item 9,"louver inserts". These are distributed in a manner to maintain adequate cooling while keeping dust intrusion to a minimum. The inside of the enclosure is constructed in a manner to allow all components to be anchored or located securely and maintain the positions of any connections and wiring required to make the system function.

The power supply Fig 3, item 6, is a universal power source that supplies the internal electronics with a stabilised and regulated 12 Volt DC supply. It is able to do this from any standard mains source, e. g. 100 to 260 Volts AC.

The operator is able to bypass the mains power supply and run if desired the radio frequency remote control camera system on a portable battery source e. g. a 12 Volt car battery.

This combination will allow the camera system to operate in the U. K. or abroad.

The camera Fig 4, item 2, is the source of the images. It has built within its structure a means of physical movement and adjustment by means of small electrical motors.

The camera's own electronics in turn control the motors. The status and position of the camera is then relayed as camera control and servo data communications.

The visual images are processed by the electronics of the camera. The output from this device is of industry standard video using"PAL"or"NTSC"format. The camera has many automatic features, many of which can be enabled or over-ridden by the operator. This type of camera, with these functions is often referred to as a"PTZ camera" (Pan Tilt Zoom). With this level of control the operator is able to position the lens in any direction and determine the level of image magnification required.

Both the video and servo data information are then supplied by physical connections to Fig 3, item 8, a video compression unit. This unit is given a"unique"identity in the form of a name or network address. It has on board intelligence by means of firmware and software. It also requires to be supplied with a list of"authorised"operators and their privileges. This will then determine if an operator is granted,"access"or is "denied" The video compression unit has a number of functions, i. e.

It can convert the camera video format into network traffic.

The format consists of standard network"IP Packets"and can be sent along the network infrastructure for distribution. This allows the images to be seen

via a local network, Email, World Wide Web, modem, fibre optics, GSM modem, satellite phone and many other forms of computer communication.

* The camera images can be directed and stored in a pre-defined location for future reference and remote retrieval. These locations can be computer memory, hard drive or any other storage device. The format (JPG) of the still frame-by-frame images will allow the operator to import these into standard computer generated documentation for distribution in a paper or other human readable format.

* The video compression device will send images to a"safe"or"off the site" location for storage under predefined conditions. An example of this is movement detection or alarm function activation. An authorised"key holder" is then able to retrieve images from this location and take appropriate action.

* The video compression unit is the interface between the operator and the camera functions. It is responsible for all the data and servo information protocols that determine the positioning of the optical lens.

* The video compression unit is responsible for the level of video image compression. This level or compression ratio will determine the file size of the images sent to the operator and also determine the quantity and"loading" effect of these images on that network.

* The video compression unit can operate and process images from a number of additional cameras. This will enable the operator to obtain images from a number of sources at the same time.

All video compression unit network"IP"traffic is passed via direct cable connection to Fig 2, item 7, a combined network hub and radio frequency transmitter and receiver.

It functions as a combination unit and allows communication between radio frequency enabled computers and the camera video compression unit. This unit is given a "unique"identity in the form of a name or network address. It has on board intelligence by means of firmware and software. It also requires to be supplied with a list of"authorised"operators and their privileges. This will then determine if an operator is granted,"access"or is"denied" If an additional direct hardware connection is introduced from another network, then the combined network radio frequency hub will allow all items to interact. This would then create an infinite number of combination possibilities within this"new and larger"network. It would then allow radio frequency enabled and non-enabled computers to communicate together without the need of a physical connection.

The combined network radio frequency hub operates using the industry standard protocol IEEE 802. 11 b for radio frequency networks operating in the 2.4 GHz radio band. This can be exchanged to take advantage of other emerging technologies.

The radio signals are passed through the aerials Fig 4, item 5. These are removable and alternatives can be fitted. These will then determine the radio coverage and performance of the radio frequency remote control camera system.

The radio frequency remote control camera is fitted with Fig 1, item 3, an infrared movement detector. This enables the camera system to send images only if movement is detected. This removes the need to store extensive amounts of unwanted images that contain no interest.

The infrared detector is also light dependant. This function works in combination with Fig 1, item 4, high-wattage 12 Volt lights. This enables the camera system to see in complete darkness with full colour when activated by movement. This removes the need for expensive"night vision"alternatives that inherently generate mono colour images.

The protective dome Fig 4, item 1, in combination with Fig 4, item 14, large cable glands, provide protection to the camera from the elements and increase the time required between intervals of maintenance. The dome is of the size to prevent overheating of the camera while giving maximum visibility in all directions. The dome is fitted to the enclosure by a ring gasket and screws. The camera is therefore "hermetically sealed"within its own compartment.

The cable glands are of a size to allow a cable with connectors to pass through. This removes the need to re-terminate cables during installation. An additional insert is then added during installation to ensure a good quality"air tight"seal between the cable and gland. This type of gland also provides a good mechanical means to secure any external cables fitted to the rear of the unit. Any cable glands not occupied by cables can be"sealed"by means of a"solid"material insert thereby keeping dust ingress to a minimum.

Referring to the drawings of the MK2, the radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver system is housed within an enclosure Fig 10 and 11, item 2 and 5. The enclosure is constructed in such a nature as to be a "case within a case", with a space between the walls that can be filled with an insulating material.

All the case mating surfaces are fitted with sealing gaskets to keep out dirt and moisture while maintaining excellent thermal properties. All other items that mate with the outer skin are seal bonded to it or other sealing methods employed.

Fig 11, item 12, external aerial connections, item 27, aerial mounting bracket, item 13, cable entry glands. Many of these parts are identical to the MK I

Fig 12, item 32 and 19, these are anti vibration shock mounts to protect the delicate camera mechanics during transport. This is a result of the camera being more heavy and complex than the unit in the MK3 Fig 13, item 15, quick release wall bracket, similar to the MK1, item 8, universal power supply, item 20 is a dome with a gasket seal, item 11, external mains connector. In fig 14, item 25, is an air vent director. This sucks off any available warm air from the power supply and forces it to cross the internal surface of the camera dome. This stops a misting effect in cold temperatures.

Fig 14, items 13,18, 17 form the physical core components of the air conditioning unit. The unit is of two main parts, the outer heat sink item 13, and the inner heat sink item 17. A semiconductor is fitted between the rear surface of the outer heat sink item 13, and the thermal conductor rods fig 14, item 18. The rods item 18, protrude through into the inner thermally insulated cavity where the camera and all the other electronics is housed. Onto the ends of these rods is fitted item 17, the internal heat sink.

When an electric current is passed through the silicon semiconductor devices, a temperature differential is formed between the two heat sinks. This difference is proportional to the amount of current and the direction determines if the internal heat sink gets hot or cold. An electronic sensor with the aid of some power electronics and logic then control the internal temperature. It is possible to extend the operating temperature range of equipment by as much as 40 to 50 degrees Centigrade in either direction from their rated specification.

The fans fig 14, item 5 and 2 are to help with air circulation and speed up the temperature regulation process. Fig 14, item 11 is a sealing gasket.

Referring to the drawings of the MK3, the radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver system is housed within an enclosure Fig 5, item 12 and 19.

In fig 5, item 10, are two additional cameras. These allow the unit a wide field of view, fig 5, item 8 is a sealing gland of the external camera cables. Fig 5, Item 6 is a mains charging point.

Fig 5, item 9, is the aerial connection. Fig 5, item 13, is the camera dome. In fig 5, item 27, is the wall-mounting bracket that is of a quick release type as used in the : MK. 2 and MK 1.

Item 25, is a vent to allow air circulation.

In fig 9, item 16, is a battery, and item 4 is a fast charger.

In fig 9, item 2, is a video compression unit, and item 3, is the radio network.

In fig 9, item 5, is a low voltage regulator to convert 12 volts to 5 volts.

In fig 9, items 17 and 23 are part of the internal metal work to give the unit strength and rigidity.

In fig 7, item 1, the camera is housed in a sealed section with the aid of items 14, a gasket, and item 15, a platform stage. The method employed is identical to the MK1.

With some additional cable entry glands the camera is kept in a dust free environment while the rest of the apparatus is allowed air ventilation.

In fig 8, item 26, are fitting buttons to allow the unit to be attached to the wall bracket.

These are identical to the ones used on the MK1.

Claims

1. The radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver is mobile; can operate autonomously or in conjunction with another network; as a master unit it can support additional external cameras or"slave units" ; can operate in total darkness by using infrared motion detection or digital signal processing; can operate at considerable distances from its host network; can act as a"radio relay"to transmit images and data to operators with computer related devices when normal connection methods are impractical; and has the ability to send and receive computer network traffic while the function and operation of this device can be controlled by a single or multiple users who have been granted access rights w. thin this network; and for external requirements can be waterproof as well as able to operate in extreme high and low temperature environments.

2. The radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver as claimed in Claim 1 wherein radio relay means that operators would be able to make computer related contact with each other or to any other party when physical distance or lack of any other practical form of connection would prevent them from doing so.

3. The radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2 wherein radio relay means that an operator without radio frequency infrastructure, provided there is a network connection to the remote control camera, is able to computer communicate with an operator who is radio enabled and may be physically mobile at the time of communications.

4. The radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 3 wherein the master unit means that additional or existing analogue camera system video feed can be connected into this unit and converted to network IP packets and then distributed though out the computer network, thus providing the operator who is fixed or mobile with multiple image viewpoints.

5. The radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver as claimed in Claim 1 wherein mobile means that the unit is self contained, portable, able to operate from a wide range of power sources including portable batteries.

6. The radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver as claimed in Claim 1 wherein operate independently means that without influence from any available network the camera system is able to

orchestrate, manage and take control of any computer related network communications that may be connected to it by physical means or computer radio enabled equipment that comes into its radio range.

7. The radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver as claimed in Claim 1 wherein operate in operate in total darkness by using infrared motion detection or digital signal processing means that the camera system can operate as an alarm trigger, take images of an event and if the ambient light is insufficient, activate its own integral lighting to ensure good picture quality. Other types of camera video optics can be incorporated which have additional intelligence and enhanced image processing to operate at very low light levels without the need for external lighting.

8. The radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver as claimed in Claim 1 wherein waterproof is dependant on the type of model. The seal rating is in the order of IP68, which is sufficient to protect the internals from wind driven rain and dust particles.

9. The radio frequency remote control camera with a network transmitter and receiver as claimed in Claim 1 wherein able to operate in extreme high and low temperature environments means that depending on the type of model, the thermally insulated internal cavity can be temperature controlled by means of solid state electronics. This enables standard equipment to operate successfully in environments for which they were never designed or intended. This also makes the unit very energy efficient with respect to maintaining an internal controlled temperature environment.