JP2001036813A - Image pickup system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize video expression equivalent to multi-camera recording with a minimum number of operators and minimum equipment and materials. SOLUTION: In this image pickup system, a control signal inputted from an operating part 1g can be selectively supplied to an image pickup device 1 or an image pickup device 2 by a control signal supplying means 1i by selecting an operated object by an operating object selecting means 1h. As a result, an operator of the image pickup device 1 is enabled to operate the image pickup device 2 as well. In addition, a video signal to be an object to be recorded in a recording means 1e is selected from either one of pieces of video picked up by the image pickup device 1 or the image pickup device 2 by a recording object video selecting means 1d. In this case, since a video signal picked up by the image pickup device 1 is synchronized with a video signal picked up by the image pickup device 2 by a synchronizing means 1c, a fact that the recorded image becomes discontinuous is prevented even when the recording object image is selected by the recording object video selecting means 1d.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an imaging system, and more particularly, to a system in which first to n-th (n.gtoreq.2) imaging devices are interconnected, and a video signal obtained by these imaging devices is appropriately selected. The present invention relates to an imaging system capable of recording.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In video recording of concerts, plays, and the like, recording with a multi-camera in which images are switched in various manners according to scenes is a very effective technique in terms of image expression.
Conventionally, when trying to perform multi-camera recording, specifically, the following method is used. (1) A method in which video signals from a plurality of cameras are collected at one place by a transmission device such as a triax system, and a video switcher selects a video as needed on the spot and records it on one video tape. (2) Using a plurality of camera-type VTRs, aligning time codes before recording, recording each separately, and later, on a single video tape based on the time codes from the separately recorded video tapes How to edit. (3) A method in which the above two are mixed.

Here, the advantage of the method (1) is that the recording is already completed on one video tape at the same time as the end of the recording, so that the work for editing later can be reduced. Conversely, the disadvantage is that, in addition to the camera, equipment such as a transmission device for collecting images in one place and a switcher for switching images is required, the system scale becomes large, the cost of the equipment increases, The setting is time-consuming and requires a large number of operators, such as switcher operators, in addition to the number of cameramen for the number of cameras, resulting in increased labor costs.

On the other hand, the advantage of the method (2) is that since there is no need for a video transmission device or switcher, the number of equipment is small.
The setting on site does not take much time,
Since no operator is required, recording can be performed with a relatively small number of people. On the other hand, the disadvantage is that the subsequent editing work takes time, and in this respect the cost increases.

[0005]

By the way, the multi-camera recording as described above can be realized by a relatively large production that can secure a sufficient budget and can send many operators to one site. However, there is a problem that it is an extremely difficult method for small and medium-sized productions that can put only one or two persons in one site within a limited budget.

Further, a system in which a camera is installed on a motorized pan head, a joystick or the like is operated from a remote place, and a remote operation is performed, thereby performing a multi-camera photographing without arranging an operator for each camera. Although there are examples in news studios, etc., in stage recording etc., it is necessary to shake the camera precisely according to the movement of the performers, so the existing remote control system is not able to withstand practical use such as stage recording etc. There was no problem.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and is an imaging method which enables a video expression equivalent to multi-camera recording conventionally performed by a large number of people with a minimum number of people and a minimum number of equipment. It is intended to propose a system.

[0008]

According to the present invention, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, first to n-th (n ≧ 2) image pickup devices are connected to each other, and a video signal obtained by these image pickup devices is converted. In an imaging system capable of appropriately selecting and recording an image, the first imaging device inputs a first imaging unit for imaging a subject and a video signal output from the second to n-th imaging devices. Video input means, a video signal output from the first imaging means, a synchronization means for synchronizing the video signal input from the video input means, and a plurality of video signals synchronized by the synchronization means. A recording target video selecting unit that selects any one of the video signals as a recording target video; and a recording unit that records the video signal selected by the recording target video selecting unit. The equipment is Imaging means for imaging the Utsushitai, imaging system characterized by having a video output means for outputting a video signal obtained by the imaging means.

Here, in the first imaging device, the first imaging means images the subject. The image input means is the second
To the n-th imaging device. The synchronization means synchronizes the video signal output from the first imaging means with the video signal input from the video input means. The recording target video selection unit selects any of the plurality of video signals synchronized by the synchronization unit as a recording target video. The recording unit records the video signal selected by the recording target video selection unit. In addition, the second to n-th
In the imaging device of (1), the imaging means images the subject.
The video output means outputs a video signal obtained by the imaging means.

[0010]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a principle diagram for explaining the operation principle of the present invention. As shown in this figure, the imaging system according to the present invention is configured by connecting an imaging device 1 and an imaging device 2 to each other. It is assumed that the imaging device 1 and the imaging device 2 are installed at a predetermined distance.

The image pickup apparatus 1 includes an image pickup unit 1a, a video input unit 1b, a synchronization unit 1c, a recording target video selection unit 1d, a recording unit 1e, a first control unit 1f, an operation unit 1g, and an operation target selection unit 1h. And selecting and recording either a video signal captured by the imaging unit 1a or a video signal captured by the imaging device 2, and controlling the imaging device 2 by selecting an operation target. Becomes possible.

Here, the image input means 1b is connected to the image pickup device 2
The video signal output from is input. The synchronization means 1c
The video signal output from the imaging unit 1a is synchronized with the video signal input from the video input unit 1b.

The recording target video selecting means 1d includes a synchronizing means 1
One of the plurality of video signals synchronized by c is selected as a recording target video. The recording unit 1e records the video signal selected by the recording target video selection unit 1d.

The first control means 1f controls the image pickup means 1a. A predetermined operation for controlling the imaging device 1 and the imaging device 2 is performed on the operation unit 1g.

The operation target selecting means 1h selects either the imaging device 1 or the imaging device 2 as an operation target. The control signal supply unit 1i supplies a control signal output according to the operation of the operation unit 1g to the imaging device selected by the operation target selection unit 1h.

On the other hand, the image pickup device 2 comprises an image pickup means 2a, a video output means 2b, a control signal input means 2c, and a control means 2d, and the image pickup means 2 responds to a control signal supplied from the image pickup apparatus 1. 2a is appropriately controlled, and a video signal output from the imaging unit 2a is supplied to the imaging device 1.

Here, the image pickup means 2a picks up an image of a subject and outputs a video signal. The video output unit 2b outputs a video signal obtained by the imaging unit 2a to the imaging device 1.

The control signal input means 2c inputs a control signal transmitted from the image pickup apparatus 1. The control means 2d
The imaging unit 2a is controlled according to the control signal input from the control signal input unit 2c.

Next, the operation of the above principle diagram will be described. Now, assuming that the operation unit 1g is operated and the imaging device 1 is selected as an operation target, the operation target selection unit 1h
Notifies the control signal supply unit 1i that the imaging device 1 has been selected as the operation target.

The control signal supply unit 1i supplies a control signal input from the operation unit 1g to the first control unit 1f. As a result, the first control unit 1f operates the operation unit 1g.
, The imaging unit 1a is controlled in accordance with the operation of the operation unit 1g. Therefore, the operator operates the operation unit 1g,
It is possible to arbitrarily control the focus, zoom, iris and the like of the imaging unit 1a. The imaging device 1 is mounted on a pan head (not shown), and the pan and tilt of the imaging device 1 can be adjusted by operating a pan bar provided on the pan head.

On the other hand, when the operation section 1g is operated and the imaging device 2 is selected as an operation target, the operation target selection means 1h sends a control signal indicating that the imaging device 2 has been selected as an operation target. Notify the supply means 1i. as a result,
When the operation unit 1g is operated to perform, for example, an operation of adjusting focus, zoom, iris, or the like, a control signal output from the operation unit 1g is transmitted from the control signal supply unit 1i to the imaging device 2. Supplied.

In the image pickup device 2, a control signal is input by the control signal input means 2c and supplied to the control means 2d. The control unit 2d controls the imaging unit 2a according to the control signal supplied from the control signal input unit 2c.
As a result, the operator can control the imaging device 2 installed at a remote position by operating the operation unit 1g.

Although not shown in this figure, a camera platform on which the imaging device 2 is mounted may be controlled.
That is, a sensor for detecting the position of the pan head (not shown) of the imaging device 1 may be provided, and the pan head of the imaging device 2 may be controlled according to the information detected by the sensor. . According to such a configuration, the operator operates the pan bar of the imaging device 1 to thereby control the imaging device 2.
Can be controlled arbitrarily.

After adjusting the image pickup means 1a and 2a of the image pickup apparatuses 1 and 2 in this way, the operation for recording the video signal picked up by these image pickup apparatuses 1 and 2 in the recording means 1e will be described next. explain.

Now, assuming that the operation section 1g is operated to select a video signal from the image pickup means 1a as a recording target picture, the recording target picture selection means 1d converts the video signal output from the image pickup means 1a into a recording target picture. Select as video.

As a result, the timing of the video signal output from the imaging means 1a is adjusted by the synchronizing means 1c, and then the video signal is selected by the recording target video selecting means 1d and supplied to the recording means 1e. Be recorded.

In such a state, if the operation section 1g is operated again and the video signal picked up by the image pickup device 2 is selected as the video to be recorded, the fact is notified to the video to be recorded selection means 1d. You.

The recording target video selecting means 1 d
The video signal picked up by the video input device and input via the video input device 1b is selected and supplied to the recording device 1e. At this time, since the synchronization unit 1c synchronizes the video signal output from the imaging device 1a and the video signal output from the video input unit 1b, the switching of the video signal by the recording target video selection unit 1d occurs. In this case, the video is recorded without interruption.

As described above, according to the imaging system of the present invention, one operator operates the two imaging devices intensively, and a desired signal is obtained from the video signals captured by these imaging devices. Can be selected and recorded, so that a video expression equivalent to multi-camera recording can be realized with a minimum number of people and a minimum number of equipment.

Next, an example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in this figure, a camera with a recording function (hereinafter, referred to as a camera) 100
Is mounted on a camera platform 115, converts an optical image of a subject incident through a lens 114 into a video signal and records the signal, and inputs and records an audio signal output from a microphone 113. . Further, a video signal and an audio signal input from the outside can be recorded.

Here, the camera 100 is
1, signal switching unit 102, recording unit 103, synchronization circuit 10
4. Digital interface 105, voice input unit 1
06, monitor 107, lens interface 108,
Control unit 109, operation unit 110, pan head interface 1
11, command communication unit 112, memory 116,
It comprises a bus 117.

The camera unit 101 converts an optical image of a subject incident through the lens 114 into an electric signal,
After performing (Analog to Digital) conversion and video signal processing, the signal is supplied to the signal switching unit 102.

The audio input unit 106 receives a signal from the microphone 113, performs signal amplification, audio signal processing, and A / D conversion, and supplies the signal to the signal switching unit 102. Note that instead of the microphone 113, a line signal from another device may be input.

The signal switching unit 102 receives a video signal from the camera unit 101 or the digital interface 10.
5 is selected and supplied to the recording unit 103 as a recording target video. Similarly, for the audio signal, either the signal from the audio input unit 106 or the externally input audio signal is selected based on the switching signal from the control unit 109 and supplied to the recording unit 103. The switching of the video signal and the switching of the audio signal may be the same or independent.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration example of the signal switching unit 102. In this figure, the switch 102a
Selects either the video signal supplied from the camera unit 101 or the video signal input from the digital interface 105 and outputs it to the monitor 107.

The switch 102b selects one of the audio signals supplied from the audio input unit 106 and the digital interface 105 and supplies the selected signal to the recording unit 103. The switch 102c selects either the video signal supplied from the camera unit 101 or the video signal input from the digital interface 105, and
03 is output.

The switch 102d selects one of the video signal output from the camera unit 101 and the video signal reproduced from the recording unit 103, and supplies it to the digital interface 105 as an external output video signal.

The switch 102e selects either the audio signal output from the audio input unit 106 or the audio signal reproduced from the recording unit 103, and supplies the selected signal to the digital interface 105 as an external output audio signal.

The switches 102a to 102e
Are controlled by the control unit 109. Synchronous circuit 1
Reference numeral 04 synchronizes a video signal output from the camera unit 101 with an externally input video signal input via the digital interface 105. As a result, the signal switching unit 1
02 can continue to supply the video signal to the recording unit 103 without interruption even when the switching operation is performed.

The recording unit 103 is composed of, for example, a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a semiconductor memory, etc., and records a video signal, an audio signal, a time code, camera setting data, and the like. The recording unit 1
03 reproduces the read data to the outside via the signal switching unit 102 when reproducing the recorded data.

The digital interface 105 is, for example, an interface conforming to the IEEE 1394 standard, and digitally multiplexes an external output video signal and an external output audio signal from the signal switching section 102 and an external output control signal from the command communication section 112. And output to the outside. The multiplexed digital signal is input and separated from the outside, and the obtained external input video signal (main video), external input video signal (sub-video), and external input audio signal are output to the signal switching unit 102. The external input control signal is supplied to the command communication unit 112.

Here, the main video refers to a video to be recorded,
The sub-picture is for the operator to confirm the picture on the monitor 107. For example, the sub-picture is in a standby state, that is,
It is a video signal, a return image, or the like of another imaging device to be non-recorded.

The command communication unit 112 receives a signal for controlling another camera connected to the outside from the control unit 109 and sends the signal to the digital interface 105. Conversely, the command communication unit 112 controls the camera from the camera connected to the outside. Is received from the digital interface 105 and the control unit 109
Send to

The monitor 107 is for the operator to check the image.
01, a video (main video or sub-video) externally input through the digital interface 105, or a video from the recording unit 103, can be arbitrarily selected by the signal switching unit 102. .

The lens interface 108 controls the focus, iris and zoom of the lens based on a control signal from the control unit 109. Further, at the time of a manual operation by the operator, a detection signal of the focus position of the lens, a detection signal of the iris position, and a detection signal of the zoom position are received, and the information is received via the control unit 109 and the command communication unit 112. Send to digital interface 105.

The camera platform interface 111 is connected to the camera 1
00 on the pan head 115 on which the
The sensor is connected to sensors for detecting a pan position) and a tilt position (hereinafter, referred to as a tilt position), and inputs the pan position and the tilt position detected by these sensors, and the control unit 10
9 and the command communication unit 112 to the digital interface 105. Or head 115
Is an electric pan head having an actuator, the pan head I / F 111 is connected to the motor drive circuit of the pan head 115, and the digital I / F 105, the command communication unit 112,
In accordance with an external pan position / tilt position control signal input via the control unit 109, the camera platform 115
Controls the pan and tilt positions of the camera.

By the operation of the camera platform interface 111 and the above-described lens interface 108, another camera (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as a remote camera) connected via the digital interface 105 is connected to the camera 1.
It is possible to operate in the same way as 00. At this time, the video from the remote camera is displayed on the monitor 107 of the camera 100, so that the video is actually
The operator can obtain an operational feeling as if he / she is directly operating the remote camera.

The memory 116 stores a plurality of position data of the zoom, focus, iris, and pan and tilt of the pan head with respect to the self and other imaging devices, with index numbers.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in the memory 116. In the example of this figure, indexes 11 to 13 and data 21 to 24 corresponding to these indexes are stored. Index 11
, Iris data 1, zoom data 1, focus data 1, pan data 1, and tilt data 1 are stored in association with each other as data corresponding to predetermined positions of the camera and the camera platform.

Similarly, data 22 indicating the predetermined positions of the camera and the camera platform are stored in the index 12.
Is associated with. Further, the index 13 is associated with data 23 indicating the start point of the operation and data 24 indicating the end point, and the data 23 includes the control speed data 30. In this way, by designating the start point and the end point and associating the control speed when moving between these two points, not only the stationary position but also the continuous movement of the lens and the camera platform can be stored.

The control unit 109 receives the call command by the external control signal, reads out the data of the corresponding index, and controls the lens of the self or external image pickup device and the camera platform to change these states as needed. Can be reproduced. That is, according to the calling control using such index numbers, it is possible to save the trouble of transmitting individual data of the zoom, focus, and iris of the lens, and the pan and tilt of the camera platform each time.

The operation unit 110 is a panel and an interface in which switches for the operator to perform various switching operations are arranged. The operation unit 110 is arranged on the side or the back of the camera 100, or a cable is extended from the main body of the camera 100. For example, it is arranged at a position where the operation is easy, such as a tripod pan stick. By operating the operation unit 110, the operator can operate not only the camera 100 but also all the cameras connected to the outside and the switching operation of the video signal to be recorded.

FIG. 5 shows a detailed configuration example of the operation unit 110. As shown in the figure, the operation unit 110 includes a first operation unit 200 and a second operation unit 210 so that an operator can always operate items that need to be operated during photographing with left and right hands. The camera is mounted on a tripod pan stick on which the camera is mounted. Switches and the like that are infrequently operated during shooting are arranged on the camera body.

The first operation unit 200 includes a zoom switch 201, memory switches 202 to 205, and AL
An L HOME switch 206 is provided. The second operation unit 210 includes camera selection switches 211 to 21
4, decision switch 215, focus control handle 21
6 and a remote selection switch 217 (disposed on the back surface) not shown.

Here, the zoom switch 201 of the first operation unit 200 is operated when adjusting the zoom of the camera to be operated. Memory switches 202-205
Is operated when reading data stored in the memory 116 or when newly storing data in the memory 116.

The ALL HOME switch 206 is operated when returning the remote camera to a preset home position. Also, the second operation unit 210
The camera selection switches 211 to 214 are operated when a desired camera is set to a standby state.

The determination switch 215 is operated when the camera in the standby state is determined as the camera to be recorded. The focus control handle 216 is operated when controlling the focus of a camera to be operated.

The remote selection switch 217, not shown,
The operation is performed when a camera in the standby state is selected as an operation target. By the way, the switches provided in the first operation unit 200 and the second operation unit 210 are arranged so that the operator can operate the operation units without holding them while holding these operation units by hand.

Note that the memory switches 202 to 205 and the ALL HOME switch 206 are arranged on the second operation section 210, and
To 214 and the decision switch 215 may be arranged on the first operation unit 200.

Next, the operation of the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example in which the camera 100 shown in FIG. 2 and the remote camera 300 are connected. In this example, the camera 10
The configuration of 0,300 is shown in a simplified manner. FIG.
The same reference numerals are given to the portions corresponding to the case of the above, and the description thereof will be omitted.

Now, it is assumed that these cameras 100 and 300 are connected to each other by a cable 310, and that an operator is interposed only in camera 100.

In such a state, if the operator operates the camera selection switch 211 provided in the second operation unit 210 of the camera 100, the camera 100 as the first camera enters a standby state.

When the remote selection switch 217 is operated in such a state, the camera 100 becomes operable. That is, when the zoom switch 201 and the focus control handle 216 are operated by the operator, the zoom and focus of the lens 114 are adjusted.

The operator can adjust the pan and tilt of the camera 100 by operating the camera platform 115. If the decision switch 215 is operated after the adjustment of the camera 100 is completed, the camera unit 101
The video signal picked up by this is selected by the signal switching unit 102 and supplied to the recording unit 103 to be recorded.

At this time, the monitor 107 displays the camera unit 1
01 is displayed as the main image, and the image transmitted from the camera 300 is displayed as the sub-image.

In the recording unit 303 of the camera 300,
According to the operation of the operator, either the image of the internal camera unit 301 or the image sent from the camera 100 is recorded. The recording may be fixed to the video of the internal camera unit 301 and recorded. According to the latter, in the event that the operator erroneously operates the camera 100 and it happens to be a recording target, etc.
Can be used as a backup.

Next, if the camera selection switch 212 (switch corresponding to the camera 300) is operated while the camera 100 is taking an image, the camera 30
0 is in the standby state. In such a situation,
Further, if the decision switch 215 is operated, the video signal from the camera 300 is selected as the main video and is recorded in the recording unit 103. That is, the control unit 109
Controls the signal switching unit 102 and selects the video signal input via the digital interface 105 as the main video, so that the recording unit 103 records the video signal captured by the camera 300.

The video signals picked up by the camera 100 and the camera 300 are synchronized by the synchronization circuit 104 shown in FIG. 2, so that the video is interrupted even when the above-described switching operation occurs. You can continue to record without.

Subsequently, if the remote selection switch 217 is operated, the camera 300 is in a standby state at that time, so that the camera 300 can be operated by operating the operation unit 110 of the camera 100.

For example, when the zoom switch 201 is operated, the control unit 109 generates a corresponding control signal and transmits it to the camera 300 via the digital interface 105.

As a result, in the camera 300, the control unit 309 obtains the control signal input via the digital interface 305, and controls the zoom mechanism of the lens 314. That is, the zoom of the camera 300 can be controlled by an operation performed on the operation unit 110 of the camera 100. The focus can be controlled in the same manner.

Similarly, if the camera platform 115 is operated to adjust the pan and tilt, the camera platform 115 is provided with an angle sensor, so that the position information is notified to the control unit 109. . The control unit 109 transmits the position information from the angle sensor to the camera 300 via the digital interface 105.

In the camera 300, this information is received by the digital interface 305, and is supplied to the motor-driven head 315 via a head interface (not shown). The electric pan head 315 is provided with an actuator, and changes its position according to the information supplied from the pan head interface.

Therefore, in the camera 100, the camera 30
When 0 is selected as the operation target, the camera 300 and the electric camera platform 315 are controlled in accordance with the operation on the camera platform 115 and the operation unit 110. At this time, the camera 300
Since the video signal captured by the camera 300 is displayed on the monitor 107, the operator can adjust the imaging state of the camera 300 while referring to the video.

When the adjustment of the imaging state of the camera 300 is completed,
When the operator double-clicks the memory switch 202, for example, the control unit 109 assigns an index number “1” (index number corresponding to the switch 202) to the memory 116 with data indicating the state of the camera 300 and the camera platform 315. Store.

Further, for example, when the focus and the camera platform 115 are continuously operated by a predetermined amount while the memory switch 203 is being pressed and the pressing of the memory switch 203 is finished, information on the starting point and the ending point of the operation is obtained. , And the control speed are stored in the memory 116 together with the index number “2” (the index number corresponding to the switch 203).

The operation information stored in the memory 116 as described above is read out by operating a desired memory switch after the operation target camera is set in a standby state, and is read out from the operation target camera. Supplied. As a result, for example, in the case of the aforementioned memory switch 202, the focus of the camera 300 and the electric pan head 315
Moves to a predetermined position.

In the case of the memory switch 203,
After the focus of the camera 300 or the electric pan / tilt head 315 moves to the start point, it moves to the end point at the speed specified by the “control speed”.

Next, in such a state, the camera 1
When it is necessary to adjust the imaging state of 00, the user operates the camera selection switch 211 and then operates the remote selection switch 217.

Then, the camera 100 becomes an operation target,
The camera 100 is controlled according to an operation on the operation unit 110. As a result of such processing, at the same time as the recording is completed, the recording unit 103 of the camera 100 stores the recorded video while switching, so that subsequent editing work can be minimized.

As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, one operator can operate two cameras in parallel. Further, it is possible to select and record a desired image from the images captured by the two cameras.

It should be noted that the camera 3 has no operator intervention.
6, the monitor and the operation unit may be omitted as shown in FIG. 6, or if the backup is unnecessary, the recording unit 303 may be omitted.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example when N cameras are connected to each other. In this figure, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the corresponding reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

In this example, N cameras 100-1 to 100-1
00-N are interconnected via a switcher 500. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a detailed configuration example of the switcher 500. As shown in FIG.
Is composed of digital interfaces 501 to 504, a signal switching unit 505, a small screen synthesizing unit 506, and a control unit 507, and has a function of once collecting and distributing signals of all three or more connected cameras. . Note that, in the example of this figure, when there are four input / output channels (N =
4), but the number of input / output channels is not limited to four.

Here, the digital interface 50
Reference numerals 1 to 504 denote portions for transmitting and receiving video signals and the like to and from the camera, each of which is connected to one camera by a digital cable and digitally multiplexes the main video signal, the sub video signal, the audio signal, and the control signal. The video signal, the audio signal, and the control signal, which have been digitally multiplexed and transmitted from the cameras, are received and separated, and the video signal is separated into a signal switching unit 505 and a small screen combining unit 506. To the signal switching unit 505,
The control signal is sent to the control unit 507.

Here, the digital interface 50
It is assumed that an operator operating the entire system exists in the camera 100-1 connected to the camera 100-1. Control unit 5
Reference numeral 07 denotes a control camera which receives a control signal from the camera 100-1 via the digital interface 501, controls the signal switching unit 505 and the small-screen combining unit 506, and is a remote camera. , Camera 1
Control signals to 00-2 to 100-N are sent via digital interfaces 502 to 504.

The signal switching unit 505 selects a video signal and an audio signal to be recorded.
One of the signals 00-1 to 100-N is selected, output as a main video signal, and sent back to each camera.

The child screen synthesizing unit 506 synthesizes video from each camera as a multi-screen, outputs it as a sub video signal, and sends it back to each camera. This multi-screen is displayed on the monitor 107-1 of the camera body together with the main video signal.
The operator can check the images to be recorded and the images from all cameras.

Next, the operation of the above embodiment will be described. The difference from the case of connecting two cameras shown in FIG. 6 is that the connection of each camera is performed via the switcher 500, but the operation by the operator is basically the same.

For example, if the camera selection switch 211 of the camera 100-1 is operated,
0-1 enters the standby state. If the remote selection switch 217 is operated, the camera 100-
1 is selected as the operation target, and the camera 100-1 is controlled in accordance with the operation performed on the operation unit 110-1.

When the decision switch 215 is operated after the adjustment of the camera 100-1 is completed, a signal from the operation unit 110-1 is supplied to the switcher 500 via the digital interface 105-1.

The control unit 507 of the switcher 500 controls the camera 100- via the digital interface 501.
1 is input. Then, the signal switching unit 5
, The video signal from the camera 100-1 is selected as the main video signal, and the digital interface 5 is selected.
01 to 504 to each camera. Further, the control unit 507 controls the small-screen combining unit 506 to combine the video signals from the cameras 100-2 to 100-N to generate a small screen, and
The image data is supplied to each camera as a sub-video signal via the sub-controller 04.

As a result, for example, a screen as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the monitor 107-1 of the camera 100-1. In this example, the main image being recorded (in this example, the image of the camera 100-1) is displayed in the area 107a. In addition, in the areas 107b to 107e, the video synthesized by the child screen synthesis unit 506 (in the present example,
The images of the cameras 100-2 to 100-N) are displayed.
Further, in the area 107f, the setting state of the camera and the recording unit 1 are displayed.
03 and the like are displayed.

In the camera 100-1, the main video signal input from the digital interface 105-1 is fixedly selected and supplied to the recording unit 103-1. In this example, the main video signal is Since the image is captured by the camera 100-1, the main video signal captured by the camera 100-1 is supplied to the recording unit 103-1 and is recorded there.

For other cameras, the same video as that of the camera 100-1 may be recorded in each recording section, or may be fixed to the video of each internal camera section and recorded as a backup. May be. If backup is not required, a camera structure in which the recording unit is omitted can be adopted.

Next, if the remote selection switch 217 is operated after the camera selection switch 212 is operated, the camera 100-2 is selected as the operation target.
Therefore, for example, when the focus control handle 216 or the zoom switch 201 is operated, a corresponding control signal is supplied to the switcher 500 via the digital interface 105-1 and supplied to the camera 100-2 by the control unit 507. The camera 100-1
By operating the operation unit 110-1, the operator can operate the camera 100-2. In addition,
Since the same processing as that described above is performed for the camera platform, the camera 100-2 can be controlled by operating the camera 100-1 for pan and tilt.

When the decision switch 215 is operated after the adjustment of the camera 100-2 is completed, a corresponding control signal is supplied from the camera 100-2 to the switcher 500.
In the switcher 500, the control unit 507 inputs a control signal via the digital interface 501, and controls the signal switching unit 505 in accordance with the instruction, and
The video signal from 0-2 is selected as the main signal.

Further, an instruction to synthesize a video signal from a camera other than the camera 100-2 as a small screen is sent to the small screen combining unit 506. As a result, in the camera 100-1, the video signal from the camera 100-2 is transmitted to the recording unit 103-
1 and recorded. A video signal from the camera 100-2 is applied to the area 107a of the monitor 107-1, and an image signal from the cameras 100-1, 100-3, and 100-4 is applied to the areas 107b to 107d. Will be displayed.

According to the above embodiment, three or more cameras are connected to select and record a video signal picked up by a desired camera, and to remotely control another camera from a predetermined camera. Can be adjusted,
With a small number of staff, the same video expression as in the conventional case can be made possible.

In the above embodiment, since the switcher 500 is operated by the operator of the camera 100-1, there is no need to arrange a dedicated switcher operator.

Further, since a system for multi-camera recording can be constructed using only a few cameras and a switcher that does not require a dedicated operator, it is possible to save labor in setting and transporting.

Furthermore, editing work after photographing is small, and the time from material recording to delivery can be shortened. As a result, production time and people are saved, and video production costs can be reduced without sacrificing video effects.

[0103]

As described above, according to the present invention, the first to n-th (n ≧ 2) imaging devices are connected to each other, and video signals obtained by these imaging devices are appropriately selected and recorded. In the imaging system, the first imaging device includes: a first imaging unit that captures an image of a subject; a video input unit that inputs a video signal output from the second to n-th imaging devices; A synchronizing unit for synchronizing the video signal output from the imaging unit with the video signal input from the video input unit, and selecting one of a plurality of video signals synchronized by the synchronizing unit as a video to be recorded Recording target video selecting means, and recording means for recording the video signal selected by the recording target video selecting means, wherein the second to n-th imaging devices each include: an imaging means for capturing an image of a subject; Obtained by A video output means for outputting the video signal. Thus having a conventional multi-camera recording the same image expression can be realized with minimal number and a minimal equipment.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a principle diagram for explaining the operation principle of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration example of a signal switching unit illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of data stored in a memory illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration example of an operation unit shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a connection relationship when two cameras shown in FIG. 2 are connected.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a second embodiment of the present invention.

8 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration example of the switcher shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a display example of a screen displayed on the monitor shown in FIG. 7;

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Imaging device, 1a ... Imaging means, 1b ... Video input means, 1c ... Synchronizing means, 1d ... Recording target video selecting means, 1e ... Recording means, 1f ... First control means, 1g
... Operating unit, 1h, operation target selecting unit, 1i, control signal supply unit, 2, imaging device, 2a, imaging unit, 2
b: video output means, 2c: control signal input means, 2d
... Control means, 100 camera, 101 camera section, 102 signal switching section, 103 recording section, 10
4. Synchronous circuit 105 Digital interface 106 Voice input unit 107 Monitor 108
...... Lens interface 109 Control unit 11
0 ... operation unit, 111 ... head interface, 11
2 Command communication unit 113 Microphone 114
Lens 115, pan head 116, memory 117
…bus

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. An imaging system in which first to n-th (n ≧ 2) imaging devices are connected to each other and capable of appropriately selecting and recording a video signal obtained by these imaging devices, A first image capturing device, a first image capturing unit that captures an image of a subject, a video input unit that receives a video signal output from the second to n-th image capturing devices, and a video signal that is output from the first image capturing unit. Means for synchronizing the video signal and the video signal input from the video input means, and a recording target video for selecting any of the plurality of video signals synchronized by the synchronization means as a recording target video Selecting means; and recording means for recording the video signal selected by the recording target video selecting means, wherein the second to n-th imaging devices are: an imaging means for imaging a subject; Yo And a video output means for outputting a video signal obtained by the above. 2. The first imaging device, a first control unit for controlling the first imaging unit, an operation unit for performing a predetermined operation, and any one of the first to n-th imaging devices. An operation target selection unit that selects the operation target, a control signal output unit that supplies a control signal output in response to the operation of the operation unit to the imaging device selected by the operation target selection unit, Further comprising: a control signal input unit that inputs a control signal transmitted from the first imaging device; and a control signal input unit that inputs a control signal transmitted from the first imaging device. The imaging system according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit that controls the imaging unit in response to the request. 3. The imaging system according to claim 2, wherein the first control unit and the control unit control an optical system of an imaging unit included in each imaging device. 4. The first to n-th imaging devices each have a camera platform, and the camera platform of the first imaging device further includes a first position detection unit that detects pan and tilt positions. When any one of the second to n-th imaging devices is selected as an operation target by the operation target selection unit, the control signal supply unit sets the pan detected by the first position detection unit. And the tilt position is supplied as a control signal to the corresponding imaging device, and the control means of the imaging device receiving the control signal controls its own camera platform in accordance with the control signal. Item 3. The imaging system according to Item 2. 5. The pan head of each of the first to n-th imaging devices includes two pan bars, and the operation unit is provided on these pan bars. 5. The imaging system according to 4. 6. The camera platform of each of the second to n-th imaging devices further includes a position detection unit for detecting a pan and a tilt position, respectively, and an optical system of the second to n-th imaging devices. Further comprises a control state detecting means for detecting a control state of the optical system, wherein each of the second to n-th imaging devices is any one of the second to n-th imaging devices by the operation target selecting means. Is selected as an operation target, and when a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit, a position detection unit of the imaging device to be operated and a detection signal by the control state detection unit are stored. The imaging system according to claim 4, further comprising a storage unit configured to perform the operation. 7. When a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit, a predetermined detection signal stored in the storage unit is supplied to a corresponding imaging device. Item 7. The imaging system according to Item 6. 8. The first image pickup apparatus further includes a display unit for displaying a video signal, wherein the display unit includes at least a recording target video selected by the recording target video selection unit and the operation target selection. The imaging system according to claim 2, wherein the imaging system displays the image captured by the imaging device selected by the means. 9. The first image capturing apparatus further includes a child screen synthesizing unit that synthesizes an image other than the recording target image as a child screen, and the display unit includes the recording target image and the child screen synthesizing unit. 9. The imaging system according to claim 8, further comprising: displaying a sub-screen output from the sub-screen. 10. The imaging apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the recording target video selecting unit, the operation target selecting unit, and the small-screen synthesizing unit are housed in a separate housing as a switcher. system.