JP2002199257A - Image pickup device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image pickup device that generates a video signal to which a prescribed image such as masking is inserted to display objects without correlation on the same screen. SOLUTION: A setting value circuit 16h stores an external setting input with respect to a display position of a prescribed image. A data mask control circuit 16e sets a mask control signal MS to an active state on the basis of storage contents of the setting value circuit 16h in timing when a luminance signal YVD and a color difference signal CVD corresponding to the set display position are fed to a data selection switch YSW. A data selection switch RSW gives mask data YMD and CMD to display a prescribed image to a post-stage processing circuit to generate a video signal in place of the luminance signal YVD and the color difference signal CVD.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus, and more particularly, to an image pickup apparatus for displaying a plurality of uncorrelated objects on the same monitor.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In the case of checking left and right with a checking camera mounted behind or in front of an automobile, a plurality of uncorrelated subjects are simultaneously photographed using a reflector or a prism lens, and these subjects are photographed. They must be displayed on one monitor screen at the same time. When such a display is performed, it is a common practice to insert a masking display at the boundary between a plurality of independent subjects and divide the screen so as to provide a user-friendly image. In the insertion of such a masking display, a multiplex process such as superimposition is generally performed on the video signal from the imaging device before the image is displayed on the monitor screen.

FIG. 20 is a schematic block diagram showing a conventional image display system for performing superimposing.

Referring to FIG. 20, a conventional image display system includes a conventional imaging apparatus 1 for imaging a plurality of uncorrelated subjects and outputting a video signal corresponding to the subjects,
A mask data generator 2 for generating mask data used to hide discontinuous portions between images respectively corresponding to a plurality of subjects, and a monitor 3 for displaying images
A selector 4 for selectively transmitting one of a video signal from the imaging device 1 and mask data from the mask data generation unit 2 to the monitor 3; and a timing control unit 5 for instructing the selector 4 to select data. And

The timing control section 5 transmits data corresponding to a display position for performing masking display to the selector 4 based on the horizontal synchronizing signal HD, the vertical synchronizing signal VD and the pixel clock pclk supplied from the imaging device 1. At the timing, the selector 4 switches the data selection. As a result, the selector 4 sends the mask data to the monitor instead of the video signal in accordance with the display position where the masking image is displayed.

With such a configuration, a masking image based on mask data is superimposed on an image of a subject in a discontinuous period between images corresponding to a plurality of uncorrelated subjects, and the monitor 3 Can be displayed.

[0007]

However, in such an image display system, a mask data generating unit 2 and a selector for executing a superimposing process on a video signal output from an imaging device 1 are provided. It is necessary to further arrange an external circuit such as 4 and the timing control unit 5. The cost increases due to the arrangement of these external circuits.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to display an image of a plurality of uncorrelated subjects displayed on the same screen. An object of the present invention is to provide an imaging device that outputs a video signal into which a predetermined image such as a marker or masking is inserted and can be directly used for monitor display.

[0009]

An image pickup apparatus according to the present invention is an image pickup apparatus for displaying a photographed subject on a monitor having a plurality of pixels, wherein the image pickup apparatus converts an optical signal from the subject into an electric signal. An element, a signal conversion unit for converting an electric signal into digital data, and at least one signal for controlling operation timings of the image sensor and the signal conversion unit so that the digital data corresponds to each of the plurality of pixels.
And a video signal processing unit that receives the digital data and generates a video signal to be displayed on the monitor unit. The video signal processing unit
Based on at least one control signal, digital data corresponding to at least one specified pixel among the plurality of pixels is inserted instead of predetermined image data to generate a video signal.

Preferably, the video signal processing section includes a mask data generating section for outputting predetermined image data, and a timing for specifying a timing corresponding to at least one specified pixel based on at least one control signal. A data mask control circuit, a data selection switch that receives digital data and predetermined image data, and outputs one of them according to an instruction of the data mask control circuit; And a first signal processing circuit that converts the signal into a signal. The data selection switch outputs predetermined image data at a timing designated by the data mask control circuit, and outputs digital data during other periods.

More preferably, the video signal processing unit is disposed between the signal conversion unit and the data selection switch, and performs a predetermined signal processing on the digital data and sends the digital data to the data selection switch. And a circuit.

More preferably, the video signal processing unit further includes a mask insertion selection circuit for fixing an output from the data selection switch to digital data according to an external setting input.

More preferably, the specified at least one pixel is set by an external input, and the video signal processing unit further includes a set value circuit for storing the external input, and the timing specification by the data mask control circuit Is executed based on the stored contents of the set value circuit and at least one control signal.

[0014] More preferably, the at least one control signal includes a horizontal synchronizing signal for synchronizing horizontal scanning, and the designation of timing by the mask control circuit is executed based on the horizontal synchronizing signal.

[0015] More preferably, the at least one control signal includes a clock signal activated at each scanning timing of each of the plurality of pixels, and a horizontal synchronizing signal for synchronizing horizontal scanning, and includes a mask control signal. The timing is specified based on the horizontal synchronization signal and the clock signal.

[0016] More preferably, the predetermined image data is:
Set to fill the specified area with a predetermined color,
The mask data generation unit changes the data level of the predetermined image data in a predetermined period starting from the timing at which the output of the predetermined image data is instructed, to the data of the digital data immediately before the output of the predetermined image data is instructed. The level is set so as to gradually approach the data level corresponding to the predetermined color.

Preferably, at least one specified pixel is set according to an external input.

Preferably, the imaging device receives a plurality of optical signals simultaneously from each of a plurality of uncorrelated subjects, and the monitor simultaneously displays the plurality of subjects on the same screen based on the video signals. .

[0019] More preferably, the image pickup device receives the optical signals from the first and second objects in each of the two regions divided along the vertical direction, and the video signal processing section includes And a masking signal for painting a band-shaped region in a vertical direction at a boundary portion of an image corresponding to each of the second objects, as predetermined image data.

[0020] More preferably, the image pickup device receives the optical signals from the first and second objects in each of the two regions divided along the horizontal direction, and the video signal processing unit includes In addition, a masking signal for horizontally filling a band-shaped region in a boundary portion of an image corresponding to each of the second subject is used as predetermined image data.

[0021] More preferably, the image pickup device receives the optical signals from the first to fourth subjects in each of the four regions divided along the vertical direction and the horizontal direction, and the video signal processing section , At the boundary portions of the plurality of images respectively corresponding to the first to fourth subjects,
A masking signal for filling a band-shaped area in order to divide the display screen of the monitor into four is used as predetermined image data.

More preferably, the video signal processing unit uses a signal for displaying a marker formed by a plurality of finite straight lines each having a predetermined length as predetermined image data.

[0023]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings. The same reference numerals in the drawings indicate the same or corresponding parts.

[First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image pickup apparatus 10a according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, an image pickup device 10a includes an image pickup device 11 for converting an optical signal of a subject input through an image pickup lens into an analog image pickup signal which is an electric signal, and an analog image pickup device output from the image pickup device 11. A preprocessing circuit 12 for reducing signal noise, and an A for converting the noise-reduced analog image signal into digital image data DD
/ D converter 13, an image sensor driving circuit 14 for generating a drive pulse for operating the image sensor 11, and a system control circuit 1 for controlling the overall operation of the image pickup apparatus 10a
5 and the digital imaging data DD from the A / D converter 13
And a video signal processing circuit 16 that outputs a video signal that can be directly used for monitor display.

Light signals from each of a plurality of subjects can be simultaneously input to the image pickup device 11 by using a reflecting mirror, a prism lens, or the like. The preprocessing circuit 12 reduces noise of the analog image signal by, for example, correlated double sampling processing.

The video signal processing circuit 16 includes the A / D converter 1
Matrix processing is performed on the digital imaging data DD from the third circuit 3 to generate a luminance signal YVD and a color difference signal CVD, and white balance processing is performed on each of the luminance signal YVD and the color difference signal CVD from the matrix circuit 16a. Signal processing circuit 16b and color difference signal processing circuit 16c for performing basic video processing such as gamma correction processing, contour emphasis, etc.
And an image insertion circuit 16 for inserting a predetermined image such as a marker or masking (hereinafter simply referred to as “predetermined image”).
g.

The video signal processing circuit 16 further adds a vertical / horizontal synchronizing signal and a burst signal to the luminance signal YD and the color difference signal CD, into which the mask data has been inserted, output from the image inserting circuit 16g. After signal processing, the NTSC (National Television System Commit
tee) or a composite processing circuit 16f for encoding a video signal according to a predetermined standard such as PAL (Phase Alternation by Line).

The video signal encoded by the composite processing circuit 16f is output to a monitor as a digital / parallel video signal or as a D / A converted analog video signal. A monitor (not shown) has a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix and performs image display based on a video signal.

The system control circuit 15 calculates a correction amount of a signal such as white balance with respect to the video signal output from the video signal processing circuit 16 and outputs status data indicating the correction amount of the signal to the video signal processing circuit. Set to 16. Further, the system control circuit 15 outputs to the preprocessing circuit 12 status data for calculating an appropriate gain and performing automatic correction. The preprocessing circuit 12 sets an appropriate gain in the noise processing based on the status data. Further, the system control circuit 15 calculates data such as a shutter speed and outputs the calculated data to the image sensor driving circuit 14. Based on these data, the image sensor driving circuit 14 performs appropriate exposure adjustment of the image sensor 11.

The system control circuit 15 further supplies a frame start signal FS, a horizontal synchronization signal HD, a vertical synchronization signal VD and a pixel clock pclk to the image insertion circuit 16g.

The frame start signal FS is activated every time a new frame starts. The vertical synchronization signal is activated in a cycle corresponding to one frame display. The horizontal synchronizing signal is periodically activated in a cycle corresponding to the display of one line, that is, every one horizontal period. The pixel clock pclk is activated at each pixel scanning timing. These horizontal synchronizing signal HD and vertical synchronizing signal VD
The video signal corresponding to a specific pixel on the monitor can be specified by the pixel clock pclk and the pixel clock pclk.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the image insertion circuit 16g. Referring to FIG. 2, image insertion circuit 16g includes a data mask control circuit 16e and a mask data insertion circuit 16d for inserting mask data for multiplexing display by inserting a predetermined image in accordance with an instruction from data mask control circuit 16e. And

The data mask control circuit 16e includes a luminance signal YVD and a color difference signal C corresponding to a display position of a predetermined image.
Mask control signal MS set to an active state at the timing when VD is transmitted to mask data insertion circuit 16d.
Generate

The data mask control circuit 16e is provided with a set value circuit 1 for storing an external setting input regarding a marker position and a masking position corresponding to a display position of a predetermined image.
6h, frame start signal FS, horizontal synchronization signal HD
And a pixel period count circuit 16i for counting the pixel clock pclk for each horizontal period based on the pixel clock pclk, and a frame start signal FS, a vertical synchronization signal VD, and a horizontal synchronization signal HD. A horizontal period count circuit 16j for counting the horizontal synchronization signal HD.

The data mask control circuit 16e calculates the count result of the pixel period count circuit 16i and the set value circuit 1
6h, an insertion period count circuit 16k that generates a mask sub-control signal MS1 for instructing insertion of mask data in pixel units in accordance with the display position of the predetermined image stored in 6h.
An insertion period counting circuit for generating a mask sub-control signal MS2 for instructing insertion of mask data in line units according to the count result of the horizontal period counting circuit 16j and the display position of a predetermined image stored in the setting value circuit 16h. 161 and a logic gate 16m that outputs the result of the logical sum of the mask sub-control signals MS1 and MS2 as the mask control signal MS. Mask control signal MS is set to an active state (H level) at the timing of insertion of mask data corresponding to a display position of a predetermined image.

The mask data insertion circuit 16d operates according to the mask control signal MS, and operates according to the data selection switch YS.
W and CSW, and a mask data generator 16n.

The data selection switch YSW selectively outputs one of the luminance signal YVD from the luminance signal processing circuit 16b and the mask data YMD of the luminance signal from the mask data generator 16n to the composite processing circuit 16f. Output. Specifically, the data selection switch YSW
Outputs the mask data YMD to the composite processing circuit 16f when the mask control signal MS is active. On the other hand, when the mask control signal MS is in the inactive state, the data selection switch YSW outputs the luminance signal YVD corresponding to the image of the subject to the composite processing circuit 1.
Output to 6f.

The data selection switch CSW selectively outputs one of the color difference signal CVD from the color difference signal processing circuit 16c and the mask data CMD of the color difference signal from the mask data generator 16n to the composite processing circuit 16f. Output. Specifically, the data selection switch CSW
Outputs the mask data CMD to the composite processing circuit 16f when the mask control signal MS is active. On the other hand, when the mask control signal MS is in an inactive state, the data selection switch CSW outputs the color difference signal CVD corresponding to the image of the subject to the composite processing circuit 16f.
Output to

The mask data generator 16n outputs mask data YMD of a luminance signal corresponding to a predetermined image and mask data CMD of a color difference signal. For example, when displaying black as mask data, the data level of mask data YMD may be set to “64” and the data level of mask data CMD may be set to “0”.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a predetermined image displayed by mask data. FIG. 3A shows masking for filling a predetermined width area in a monitor screen with a predetermined color. Masking is used to hide discontinuities in the connection between uncorrelated images. In order to display such masking, mask data may be inserted over a predetermined plurality of rows or columns.

FIG. 3B shows a marker for designating a specific position on the monitor screen. The marker is used for adjusting the position of the camera. The thickness and length of the marker are set so that the marker does not completely hide the subject image. By inserting mask data corresponding to a predetermined pixel where a marker is to be displayed, such a marker can be displayed on a monitor screen.

By appropriately setting the display range of the predetermined image, an arbitrary predetermined image such as a marker or masking can be inserted.

FIG. 4 is a timing chart for explaining mask data insertion processing in the image insertion circuit.

Referring to FIG. 4, frame start signal F
S is activated in a pulse shape (H level), and the display of a new frame is started. The vertical synchronization signal VD is activated (H level) in a pulse shape every frame period. 1
In the frame period, the horizontal synchronizing signal HD is provided for each horizontal period corresponding to the period in which one line is to be scanned.
Are activated (H level) in a pulsed manner. In one horizontal period, the pixel clock pclk is activated (H level) in a pulsed manner in each period corresponding to one pixel period in which one pixel is to be scanned.

Mask sub-control signal MS1 or MS2
Are activated (to H level) in pixel period units or horizontal period units (line units) by the data mask control circuit 16e based on these control signals.

When one of mask sub-control signals MS1 and MS2 is set to the active state (H level), data selection switches CSW and YSW select mask data YMD and CMD, respectively, and perform composite processing. The signal is transmitted to the circuit 16f. In response, a predetermined image is displayed at a pixel corresponding to the timing when mask sub-control signal MS1 or MS2 is set to the active state.

On the other hand, mask sub-control signals MS1 and MS
2 are both in an inactive state (L level), the mask control signal MS output from the logic gate 16m is also set to an inactive state (L level). The luminance signal YVD from the signal processing circuit 16b and the color difference signal CVD from the color difference signal processing circuit 16c are transmitted to the composite processing circuit 16f. Accordingly, mask sub-control signals MS1 and MS
In a pixel corresponding to a period in which both of them are set to the inactive state, an image corresponding to a subject photographed by the image sensor 11 is displayed.

As described above, the mask sub-control signal MS2 is
An instruction to insert mask data is given in units of horizontal periods, that is, in units of lines. On the other hand, the mask sub-control signal MS1 can instruct insertion of mask data for each specific pixel within one horizontal period.

In the first embodiment, the mask data is controlled by independent mask sub-control signals MS1 and MS2 so that the display of a predetermined image corresponding to the mask data can be set for each pixel and each line. Has been described, the mask data insertion in line units can be executed only by the timing instruction in pixel units.

The activation period of the mask control signal MS can be set according to the setting input stored in the setting value circuit 20e. Therefore, the display position of the predetermined image that can be specified in line units or pixel units can be arbitrarily adjusted from the outside.

[Second Embodiment] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an entire configuration of an imaging device 10b according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 5, an imaging device 10b according to the second embodiment includes a video signal processing circuit 20 instead of video signal processing circuit 16 as compared with imaging device 10a according to the first embodiment. Different.

The video signal processing circuit 20 is different from the video signal processing circuit 16 in that an image insertion circuit arranged before the matrix circuit 16a is used instead of the image insertion circuit 16g arranged before the composite processing circuit 16f. 20a.

Therefore, the digital imaging data DD from the A / D converter 13 is input to the image insertion circuit 20a, and is sent out to the matrix circuit 16a after a predetermined image is inserted by the image insertion circuit 20a. Therefore, basic image processing such as matrix processing for generating a luminance signal and a color difference signal and white balance processing is executed after mask data insertion processing. The image insertion circuit 20a has a data mask control circuit 20c and a mask data insertion circuit 20b.

The structure and operation of the other parts of image pickup device 10b are the same as those of image pickup device 10a, and therefore, detailed description will not be repeated.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image insertion circuit 20a. Referring to FIG. 6, data mask control circuit 20c has a set value circuit 20e and a mask control signal generation circuit 20f. The setting value circuit 20e stores an external setting input regarding the display position of the predetermined image. The setting value circuit 20e is constituted by, for example, a register. Further, the pixel corresponding to the display position of the predetermined image can be specified by calculation in the setting value circuit 20e upon receiving a setting input relating to the display position and its length and width.

The mask control signal generating circuit 20f receives the pixel clock pclk, the horizontal synchronizing signal HD, the vertical synchronizing signal VD and the frame start signal FS. The mask control signal generation circuit 20f masks digital imaging data DD from the A / D converter 13 corresponding to a pixel position for displaying a predetermined image based on these control signals and the storage contents of the setting value circuit 20e. At the timing when data is to be inserted, the mask control signal MS is activated (H level)
Set to.

The mask data insertion circuit 20b includes a data selection switch RSW that operates according to the mask control signal MS.
And a mask data generation unit 20g for generating mask data MD.

The data selection switch RSW receives the mask data MD from the mask data generator 20g and the digital image data DD from the A / D converter 13, and switches either one according to the mask control signal MS. The signal is transmitted to the matrix circuit 16a as a signal RAW.

When the mask control signal MS is in the active state (H level), the data selection switch RSW uses the mask data MD as the signal RAW to output the matrix circuit 16.
to a. On the other hand, when the insertion of the mask data is not instructed, that is, when the mask control signal MS is in the inactive state (L level), the digital imaging data DD from the A / D converter 13 is used as the signal RAW in the matrix circuit. 16a.

FIG. 7 is a timing chart illustrating an example of mask data insertion timing according to the second embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 7, frame start signal F
Changes in S, vertical synchronizing signal VD, horizontal synchronizing signal HD, and pixel clock pclk are the same as those described with reference to FIG. 4, and thus description thereof will not be repeated.

The mask control signal generating circuit 20f synchronizes the signal RAW with the frame start signal FS, the vertical synchronizing signal VD, the horizontal synchronizing signal HD, and the pixel clock pclk to correspond to a specific pixel within each horizontal cycle period. To insert the mask data.

In the example shown in FIG. 7, in each horizontal period, the mask control signal MS is activated to the H level for a fixed period determined in synchronization with the pixel clock pclk. Mask data MD is inserted into signal RAW during a period in which mask control signal generation circuit 20f sets mask control signal MS to an active state (H level). For example, to display an image filled with black as the mask data, the data level of the mask data MD is set to “0”.

The active state period of the mask control signal MS changes according to the setting input stored in the setting value circuit 20e. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the width and length of the marker or masking displayed by the mask data according to the setting input from the outside.

Also, as in the case of FIG. 4, it is possible to activate the mask control signal MS in units of horizontal periods or in units of pixels. For example, by setting the mask control signal MS to the active state in one horizontal period, a mask display in which one line is painted black can be inserted in the horizontal direction.

[Third Embodiment] In the third embodiment, the imaging apparatus 1 shown in the first and second embodiments will be described.
An example of image display by 0a and 10b will be described.

FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram showing image input to an image sensor according to the third embodiment. Referring to FIG. 8, in the third embodiment, optical signals from a subject in both the left and right directions are simultaneously input to image pickup device 11 by using reflecting mirror 31 or a prism lens. Optical signals corresponding to the left and right subjects, respectively, are input to the left and right sides of the image sensor by the reflecting mirror 31, respectively.
The input optical signal is converted into a video signal by a process shown in the imaging device 10a or 10b.

On the display screen of the monitor, the images corresponding to the subject input on the right and left sides are displayed on the right and left sides, respectively.

At this time, since there is no correlation between the image corresponding to the subject on the left and the image corresponding to the subject on the right, an unnatural image is displayed at the boundary between the images. For this reason, masking is inserted along the vertical direction to reduce the unnaturalness of the image.

FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram illustrating insertion of masking according to the third embodiment. Referring to FIG. 9, between images corresponding to the left subject and the right subject,
By inserting a masking 81 filled in, for example, one black color in the vertical direction (vertical direction), the unnaturalness of the display image can be eliminated. FIG. 9 shows an example in which a masking 81 having a width of 50 pixels is displayed at the center of the monitor screen. The display position and width of the masking 81 are arbitrarily set by a setting input to the setting value circuit 16h or 20e. be able to.

[First Modification of Third Embodiment] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing image input to an image sensor according to a first modification of the third embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 10, in a first modification of the third embodiment, optical signals from a subject in both the up and down directions are simultaneously input to image pickup device 11 using a reflecting mirror 41 or a prism lens. You. By the reflecting mirror 31,
The optical signals corresponding to the upper and lower subjects respectively are:
The signals are input to the upper side and the lower side of the image sensor, respectively. The input optical signal is converted into a video signal by a process shown in the imaging device 10a or 10b.

On the display screen of the monitor, the images respectively corresponding to the upper and lower subject inputs are displayed on the upper and lower sides, respectively.

At this time, since there is no correlation between the image corresponding to the upper object and the image corresponding to the lower object, an unnatural image is displayed at the boundary between the images. For this reason, a masking signal is inserted along the horizontal direction to reduce the unnaturalness of the image.

FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram illustrating insertion of masking according to the first modification of the third embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 11, a masking 82 filled with, for example, one black color is inserted in the horizontal direction between the images corresponding to the upper object and the lower object, respectively. Unnaturalness can be eliminated. FIG. 11 shows an example in which a masking 82 having a width of 30 lines is displayed at the center of the monitor screen. The display position and width of the masking 82 are determined by the setting value circuit 16h.
Alternatively, it can be set arbitrarily by setting input to 20e.

[Modification 2 of Embodiment 3] FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing image input to an image sensor according to Modification 2 of Embodiment 3.

Referring to FIG. 12, in a second modification of the third embodiment, a subject in four directions of upper left / upper right / lower left / lower right is used by using a reflecting mirror 51 or a prism lens cut in four sides. Are input to the image sensor 11 at the same time.

As a result, four independent subjects are displayed on the same display screen on the monitor. At this time, since there is no correlation between the images corresponding to the four subjects, an unnatural image is displayed at the boundary between the images. For this reason, a masking signal is inserted along the horizontal direction and the vertical direction so as to divide the display screen into four parts, thereby reducing the unnaturalness of the image.

FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram illustrating insertion of masking according to the second modification of the third embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 13, masking 83 divides the display screen of the monitor into four parts so as to correspond to four independent subjects, respectively. This makes it possible to make the joints of the images respectively corresponding to the four upper left, upper right, lower left and lower right subjects inconspicuous. The masking 83 shown in FIG. 13 shows an example in which the masking 81 and 82 shown in FIGS. 9 and 11 are respectively combined. The display position and width of the masking 83 are different from those of the set value circuit 16h or 20e. It can be set arbitrarily by setting input.

[Modification 3 of Embodiment 3] Embodiment 3
In the third modification, at the boundary between the image corresponding to the subject and the masking, the change in the brightness level is set gently to reduce the unnaturalness of the image at the boundary.

FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a change in the luminance level at the boundary according to the third modification of the third embodiment.

FIG. 14 shows an example in which the masking display is executed at the boundary between the areas where the independent left and right objects are displayed.

The steady value of the amplitude of the luminance signal corresponding to the masking display is set to “0”. On the other hand, in an area where an image corresponding to the subject is displayed, the luminance signal has a data level, that is, an amplitude, corresponding to the image of the subject.

In the third modification of the third embodiment, the amplitude of the luminance signal is changed stepwise at a predetermined rate at the boundary between the image corresponding to the subject and the masking display section.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image insertion circuit 16g of an imaging device 10a corresponding to the third modification of the third embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 15, in the configuration according to the third modification of the third embodiment, image insertion circuit 16g includes mask data YMD, CM having a fixed data level.
A mask data generator 16p is provided instead of the mask data generator 16n that outputs D.

The mask data generator 16p responds to the activation of the mask control signal MS (from L level to H level).
The luminance signal YMD and the color difference signal CMD for displaying the mask data are output. The data level, that is, the amplitude of the luminance signal YMD output from the mask data generation unit 16p changes stepwise from the activation timing of the mask control signal MS within a predetermined period starting from the activation timing of the mask control signal MS. , Reaches the steady luminance (amplitude “0”) of the masking display.

The amplitude of the luminance signal YMD within the above-described predetermined period is set according to the signal level of the luminance signal YVD immediately before the activation timing of the mask control signal MS.

With such a configuration, in the imaging apparatus 10a, as shown in FIG. 14, a sharp change in the luminance level at the boundary can be prevented, and smooth edge display can be performed.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image insertion circuit 20a of an imaging device 10b corresponding to the third modification of the third embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 16, in the configuration according to the third modification of the third embodiment, image inserting circuit 20a replaces mask data generating section 20g which outputs mask data MD having a fixed data level. , And a mask data generation unit 20h.

The mask data generator 20h responds to the activation of the mask control signal MS (from L level to H level).
The mask data MD is output. Mask data generator 20
The data level of the mask data MD output by h changes stepwise from the activation timing of the mask control signal MS during a predetermined period starting from the activation timing of the mask control signal MS, so that the masking display is constantly performed. The data level ("0") is reached.

The mask data generator 20h sets the data level of the mask data MD within the above-mentioned predetermined period according to the digital image pickup data DD from the A / D converter immediately before the activation timing of the mask control signal MS. .

With such a configuration, also in the image pickup apparatus 10b, it is possible to prevent a sharp change in the luminance level at the boundary portion and perform a smooth edge display.

[Modification 4 of Embodiment 3] Embodiment 3
In the fourth modification, the display of the marker will be described.

FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram showing the display of a marker on a monitor. Referring to FIG. 17, marker 91 is
For example, it has two finite straight lines displayed along the horizontal direction and the vertical direction, respectively.

The designation of the display position of the marker 91 is realized by externally setting the address of the pixel for displaying the mask data in the set value circuit 16h or 20e. The address of such a pixel can also be designated by setting the center position of the marker display and the width and length of the finite line from outside and calculating by the set value circuit 16h or 20e.

The marker 91 can be displayed on the monitor by inserting mask data corresponding to the address of the designated pixel and displaying, for example, black. By displaying such a marker 91 on the monitor screen, for example, it is possible to easily execute the adjustment of the mounting position of the imaging element itself with respect to the housing and the field of view of the imaging device.

The shape of the marker is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 17, and any shape can be displayed by specifying the address of the pixel.

[Fifth Modification of Third Embodiment] FIG. 18 is a conceptual diagram illustrating display on a monitor according to a fifth modification of the third embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 18, it is possible to arbitrarily set the display positions of the marker and the masking by appropriately adjusting the setting inputs to the setting value circuits 16h and 20e included in the imaging devices 10a and 10b, respectively. Can be.

For example, as shown in FIG. 18, it is possible to display masking 84 in an area outside the center. Further, the display position of the marker 92 can be continuously moved according to an external setting. Further, it is also possible to display both the marker and the masking.

[Fourth Embodiment] In a fourth embodiment, a description will be given of a configuration in which the display of mask data can be selected by an external setting input.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a structure of an image insertion circuit according to the fourth embodiment. In FIG. 19,
A configuration in which mask data display can be selected corresponding to the imaging device 10b is shown.

Referring to FIG. 19, in the configuration according to the fourth embodiment, a display is provided between mask control signal generation circuit 20f and data selection switch RSW as compared with image insertion circuit 20a shown in FIG. The difference is that a selection switch MSW is further provided. The configuration and operation of other portions are the same as those of image insertion circuit 20a shown in FIG. 6, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

The display selection switch MSW is connected to the set value circuit 2
0e is a mask display selection signal M generated according to the setting input.
It operates according to SL. By external setting input,
When display of mask data is selected, mask display selection signal MSL is set to an active state. In response, display selection switch MSW transmits mask control signal MS output from mask control signal generation circuit 20f to data selection switch RSW.

On the other hand, when display of mask data is deselected by an external setting input, mask display selection signal MSL is set to an inactive state. In response, display selection switch MSW fixes the signal level of mask control signal MS for controlling data selection switch RSW to a voltage corresponding to the inactive state (L level), for example, ground voltage Vss.

With this configuration, it is possible to select on / off display of a marker or masking by mask data in accordance with an external setting input. Thus, for example, when adjusting the field of view, the markers are masked and displayed to facilitate the adjustment, and
At the time of actual use after the adjustment, the display of a marker or masking that makes it difficult to see the subject image can be prohibited. Thereby, the convenience for the user can be improved.

In FIG. 19, the image pickup device 10b
Has shown a configuration that enables on / off selection of the mask data display.
In the configuration shown in FIG. 2, by providing a similar display selection switch MSW between the logic gate 16m and the data selection switches CSW and YSW, ON / OFF of the mask display can be selected.

The embodiments disclosed this time are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

[0115]

The image pickup apparatus according to the present invention, when displaying images corresponding to a plurality of independent and uncorrelated subjects on the same display screen, inserts markers or masking indicating the division between the images. can do. Further, the display position and size of the marker and the masking portion can be arbitrarily set from outside.

Then, by inserting masking in the vertical direction, it is possible to reduce the unnaturalness of the section of an image having no independent correlation. In addition, by inserting masking in the horizontal direction, it is possible to reduce the unnaturalness of a section between a plurality of images having no independent correlation.

Further, it is possible to make joints between the images of four subjects displayed by dividing the same screen into four parts inconspicuous. Also, the seam before and after the masking portion can be made inconspicuous.

Further, it is possible to easily adjust the mounting position of the camera itself with respect to the housing and the field of view of the imaging device.
Then, it is possible to select a marker or masking display which is necessary at the time of adjustment but is unnecessary at the time of actual use and becomes difficult to see.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 shows an imaging device 10a according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of FIG.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image insertion circuit 16g.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a predetermined image displayed by mask data.

FIG. 4 is a timing chart illustrating mask data insertion processing in an image insertion circuit.

FIG. 5 shows an imaging device 10b according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the entire configuration of the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image insertion circuit 20a.

FIG. 7 is a timing chart illustrating an example of mask data insertion timing according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram showing image input to an image sensor according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram illustrating insertion of masking according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing image input to an image sensor according to a first modification of the third embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram illustrating insertion of masking according to a first modification of the third embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing image input to an image sensor according to a second modification of the third embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram illustrating insertion of masking according to a second modification of the third embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a change in luminance level at a boundary according to a third modification of the third embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image insertion circuit 16g of an imaging device 10a corresponding to a third modification of the third embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image insertion circuit 20a of an imaging device 10b corresponding to a third modification of the third embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram showing display of a marker on a monitor.

FIG. 18 is a conceptual diagram illustrating display on a monitor according to a fifth modification of the third embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image insertion circuit according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a schematic block diagram showing a conventional image display system for performing superimposition.

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 11 image sensor, 12 preprocessing circuit, 13 A / D converter, 14 image sensor drive circuit, 15 system control circuit, 16, 20 video signal processing circuit, 16a matrix circuit, 16b luminance signal processing circuit, 16c color difference signal processing circuit , 16d, 20b mask data insertion circuit,
16e, 20c Data mask control circuit, 16f Composite processing circuit, 16g, 20a Image insertion circuit, 1
6h, 20e Set value circuit, 16n, 16p, 20g,
20h Mask data generation unit, 31, 41, 51 Reflecting mirror.

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) H04N 5/278 H04N 5/278 7/18 7/18 V F term (Reference) 2H018 AA32 BA06 BD06 BE02 2H102 AB11 AB23 BA06 BA21 BB08 CA34 5C022 AA04 AB68 5C023 AA14 AA16 AA37 CA01 EA03 5C054 CA04 CC03 CC05 EC01 EC03 EH01 FA00 FE12 FE18 FE19 HA30

Claims (14)

[Claims] 1. An imaging device for displaying a photographed subject on a monitor unit having a plurality of pixels, comprising: an image sensor for converting an optical signal from the subject into an electric signal; and converting the electric signal into digital data. A signal conversion unit for converting, and a system for controlling operation timing of the image sensor and the signal conversion unit to generate at least one control signal for associating the digital data with each of the plurality of pixels A control unit, comprising: a video signal processing unit that receives the digital data and generates a video signal to be displayed on the monitor unit; and wherein the video signal processing unit is configured to perform, based on the at least one control signal, The digital data corresponding to at least one specified pixel among the plurality of pixels is inserted in place of predetermined image data to insert the video signal. To formed, the image pickup apparatus. 2. The image signal processing unit, comprising: a mask data generation unit that outputs the predetermined image data; and a timing corresponding to the at least one specified pixel based on the at least one control signal. A data mask control circuit for receiving the digital data and the predetermined image data, and outputting one of them according to an instruction of the data mask control circuit; and And a first signal processing circuit for converting the image signal into a video signal according to a predetermined standard. The data selection switch outputs the predetermined image data at a timing designated by the data mask control circuit. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the digital data is output in a period other than the period. 3. The video signal processing unit is disposed between the signal conversion unit and the data selection switch, and performs a predetermined signal processing on the digital data and sends the digital data to the data selection switch. The imaging device according to claim 2, further comprising a signal processing circuit. 4. The video signal processing unit further includes a mask insertion selection circuit for fixing an output from the data selection switch to the digital data according to an external setting input. An imaging device according to claim 1. 5. The at least one designated pixel is set by an external input, the video signal processing unit further includes a set value circuit for storing the external input, and The designation of the timing is performed based on the storage contents of the set value circuit and the at least one
4. The method according to claim 2, which is performed based on two control signals.
An imaging device according to claim 1. 6. The at least one control signal includes a horizontal synchronization signal for synchronizing horizontal scanning, and the timing designation by the mask control circuit is performed based on the horizontal synchronization signal. 4. The imaging device according to 2 or 3. 7. The mask control signal, wherein the at least one control signal includes a clock signal activated at each scanning timing of the plurality of pixels and a horizontal synchronization signal for synchronizing horizontal scanning. 4. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the designation of the timing is performed based on the horizontal synchronization signal and the clock signal. 5. 8. The predetermined image data is set to fill a specified area with a predetermined color, and the mask data generating unit starts at a timing at which the output of the predetermined image data is instructed. In the period, the data level of the predetermined image data is set so as to gradually approach from the data level of the digital data immediately before the output of the predetermined image data is instructed to the data level corresponding to the predetermined color, Claim 2
Or the imaging device according to 3. 9. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one designated pixel is set according to an external input. 10. The image pickup device receives a plurality of optical signals simultaneously from a plurality of uncorrelated subjects, and the monitor unit simultaneously displays the plurality of subjects on the same screen based on the video signal. The imaging device according to claim 1, which is displayed above. 11. The image sensor, in each of two regions divided along a vertical direction, receives the optical signal from a first and second subject, respectively, and the video signal processing unit The imaging device according to claim 10, wherein a masking signal for vertically filling a band-shaped region in a boundary portion of an image corresponding to each of the first and second subjects is used as the predetermined image data. 12. The image pickup device receives the optical signals from a first and a second subject in each of two regions divided along a horizontal direction, and the video signal processing unit The imaging device according to claim 10, wherein a masking signal for horizontally filling a band-shaped region in a boundary portion of an image corresponding to each of the first and second subjects is used as the predetermined image data. 13. The image signal processing unit receives the optical signal from a first to a fourth subject in each of four regions divided along a vertical direction and a horizontal direction, and Uses, as the predetermined image data, a masking signal for filling a band-shaped region in order to divide the display screen of the monitor unit into four at a boundary portion of a plurality of images respectively corresponding to the first to fourth subjects. The imaging device according to claim 10. 14. The imaging apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the video signal processing unit uses a signal for displaying a marker formed by a plurality of finite straight lines each having a predetermined length as the predetermined image data. .